On Wednesday, June 19, representatives from the Taco Bell Foundation visited the Branson facility of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Ozarks, where they presented a $40,000 check from the Foundation to support BGCO in providing valuable assistance to young people in the community. Several staff and managers from area franchise locations were also on hand for the presentation, which included a tour of the Branson club for a close-up look at how the funds are used.
Matthew Parry of K-Mac Enterprises, which has several Taco Bell restaurants across the Ozarks, said he was excited about his first visit to the Branson Club to see the many great educational programs in process. During the tour, the guests were able to see young people participating in a Torch Club meeting, which provides foundational career development skills for middleschool-aged
Board approves $335,000 incentive for Social Birdy
BY GARY J. GROMAN,
Independent Journalist
At its June 25, 2024, meeting, the Branson Board of Aldermen gave their approval to a Sales Tax Reimbursement Agreement with MMTC Development Group, LLC (Social Birdy) for the development projects known as Social Birdy, at 1250 Branson Hills Parkway, Branson, Missouri 65616. Social Birdy is a golf and entertainment complex offering amenities such as a golf shop, golf simulators, a putting course, pickleball facilities, and food and beverage options. It is well into the final stages of construction and expects a 2024 opening. Its total area is around 39,000 square feet, with 14,873 square feet indoors. According to the staff report, Social Birdy intends to open in 2024. Under the Agreement, Social Birdy will receive a $335,000 incentive to reimburse it for “Unanticipated Sitework Costs.” According
to the staff report, “Unanticipated Sitework Costs are those costs associated with the sitework of the Development Project that were unanticipated and incurred by the Applicant, due to the rocky terrain of the site location. The City required the Applicant to provide proof that the Unanticipated Sitework Costs were incurred and paid for by the Applicant. The City’s financial consultant, Baker Tilly, evaluated the Applicant’s proof of costs and payment and has confirmed that $335,000 in Unanticipated Sitework Costs has been incurred and paid for by the Applicant.
“Under this Agreement, the City would remit 100% of the City’s 1% general sales tax revenues generated by the Development Project to the Applicant for 15 years, or until the total value of the incentive reaches $335,000. In no circumstances will the Applicant receive more than SEE SOCIAL BIRDY, PAGE 8A
Family needs help to find missing woman
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A Stone County woman has been missing for more than two weeks, and her family is asking for your help in locating her.
Haven Shelton has not been seen since the evening of June 10. She is pictured above in photos submitted by her family.
While Haven is over the age of 18, her parents serve as her adult guardians and conservators.
“This is due to the court’s review of her psychiatric evaluations and behavioral issues,” noted Jen.
“We discovered her missing from our home on the morning of June 11,” explained Jen Shelton, Haven’s mother. “We believe that she left willingly, but she is a very vulnerable individual. She has significant psychiatric issues, as well as medical issues (seizures) for which she needs medication twice daily. She took no medication, no identification, and no debit card or significant amount of cash. We are very concerned at this point, given the length of time she has not had her medication.”
Shelton explained that a home security camera, which should have recorded Haven’s leaving and alerted her parents, failed, due to dead batteries.
“We do not know where she would have gone, but she is familiar with the Branson West, Kimberling City, Reeds Spring and Branson areas,” said Jen. “Anything outside of that is definitely outside of her comfort zone.” Haven is 19 years old. She stands 5 feet tall, and weighs 110 pounds, with shoulder length brown hair, brown eyes and a noticeably fair complexion.
Anyone who sees Haven or has knowledge of her whereabouts is asked to contact the Stone County Sheriff’s Department.
Summer club participants were eager to help hold the check representing assistance with the programs they enjoy. (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas)
Congrats, Gary!
Staff Reports
At the June 25, 2024, Branson City Hall meeting, Brian Seitz surprised Gary Groman with this recognition award. Branson Globe owner and publisher, Rob Doherty, commented: “Gary and his dedication to the Branson Globe are unwavering and it’s a pleasure working alongside him for almost four years now.” All of us at the Branson Globe, along with our loyal readers, echo Doherty’s words, and congratulate Groman on the well-deserved honor!
Submitted to Branson Globe
Area senior citizens are invited to join 4OzarkSeniors on Tuesday, July 2, for a Senior Banana Split Social, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the new storefront pantry for Christian Action Ministries located in the Table Rock Plaza, 16585 St. Hwy. 13 in Branson West. The 4OzarkSeniors offices and
the pantry are located on the rear lower level of the plaza, with parking available at the back side of the building.
In addition to banana splits and fellowship, the gathering will feature a speaker from White River Electric Cooperative, sharing ways to lower energy bills in the “Dog Days of Summer” here in the Ozarks.
With the motto, “Guiding our neighbors and their fam-
The ice cream social will take place immediately following the pantry’s regular Tuesday food distribution, which takes place from 10 a.m. to 12 noon each Tuesday. Ingredients for banana splits will be provided by 4OzarkSeniors, CAM and OACAC.
ilies through life’s transitions with compassion and personalized focus,” 4OzarkSeniors is committed to helping connect area senior citizens with the resources and services they need to live healthy and successful lives in their retirement years. Learn more at http://www.4ozarkseniors. com, and plan to join this fun and informative gathering!
Protecting the future of Table Rock Lake
Submitted to Branson Globe
A watershed planning project for multiple sub watersheds within the Table Rock Lake area is underway through a partnership between the Ozarks Environmental and Water Resources Institute (OEWRI) and H2Ozarks!
It is no surprise to residents and businesses on the lake that Table Rock Lake is considered a high quality waterbody of economic and recreational significance for the State of Missouri. This project aims to address water quality impairments and concerns in the watershed, and to update a previous plan by adding water quality modeling information.
The end result of this project’s effort is to obtain acceptance from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) of a nine-element watershed management plan for the Table Rock Lake – White River watershed. An accepted plan provides a roadmap for a holistic approach to water quality protection and improvement of our most treasured resource.
A nine-element watershed management plan provides a comprehensive framework for developing and implementing best management practices that address water quality concerns while engaging stakeholders and fostering sus-
tainable practices. This project offers an exciting opportunity for our community to take responsible action toward protecting our lake region. The input of our landowners, business owners, elected officials, agency representatives and other stakeholders is critical. For that reason, H2Ozarks is seeking interested stakeholders to participate in the watershed planning process. If you are interested, visit our website at www.H2Ozarks.org/trlwmp and complete a request to become a stakeholder.
Recently, efforts by OEWRI, H2Ozarks, and dedicated stakeholders resulted in an accepted watershed
management plan for the Lake Taneycomo watershed in Taney County. View the final document online at www.H2Ozarks.org/ltwmp. A special shout of appreciation to all involved! For additional information about this project and others visit our website at www.H2Ozarks.org, or contact Carin Love with H2Ozarks at 417.739.5001, or by emailing Contact@ H2Ozarks.org.
The Ozarks Environmental and Water Resources Institute (OEWRI) at Missouri State University and H2Ozarks received a $190,000 grant from the Missouri Department SEE TABLE ROCK LAKE, PAGE 6A
Jordan Valley receives official approval to launch Program of All-Inclusive Care of the Elderly
Submitted to Branson Globe
Jordan Valley Community Health Center (JVCHC) is officially approved to provide the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in the Springfield area. PACE care includes medical and personal care, rehabilitation, social interaction, medications, transportation and more, all in one place so participants can live at home. Jordan Valley Senior Care (JVSC) is the first PACE model to launch in southwest Missouri and the
third in the state of Missouri. The program is currently launching the assessment and enrollment process, and should begin caring for participants in July.
“PACE is perfectly aligned with Jordan Valley’s mission to improve access to quality health care for the underserved,” said JVCHC’s President and CEO Dr. Matt Stinson. “The PACE model also has a strong track record of high-quality outcomes for participants including lower hospitalization rates and reduced
emergency room* visits.”
The PACE model approaches care through an interdisciplinary team of professionals that provide all of the coordinated care a participant needs. These professionals are also experts in working with older people. They work together with participants and families (as appropriate) to develop the most effective plan of care.
Enrollment in a PACE program is voluntary. To enroll, individuals must meet the following criteria:
55 years old or older
• Live in the service area of a PACE organization
• Certified by the state as meeting the need for the
nursing home level of care
• Able to live safely in the community with the help of PACE services at the time of enrollment
According to the National PACE Association (NPA), the average PACE participant is 76 years old and has multiple, complex medical conditions, cognitive and/ or functional impairments, and significant health and long-term care needs. Approximately 90 percent are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid.
“PACE is going to be a game-changer for some of our community’s most vulnerable seniors,” said Jor-
dan Valley Senior Care’s executive director Deanna Beckenholdt. “Our day center is an incredible resource, not only for accessing care and therapies outside the home, but also to keep participants connected to the community and their peers.” Beckenholdt also noted that JVSC will also address a significant obstacle to care by providing transportation to the day center and other medical appointments.
“PACE improves access to health care for senior participants to prevent more serious and costly issues downstream,” said Jordan Valley’s Vice President of Operations, Ryan Kruger. “Families and caregivers for PACE participants are largely supportive of the model.
Research found that 95% of family caregivers would recommend PACE to a some-
one in a similar situation.”** For more information about eligibility requirements and the enrollment process, call Jordan Valley Senior Care at 417-8511550 or visit our website at Jordan Valley Senior Care.
Sources: *NPA “Pace by the Numbers” Infographic; Segelman, M., Szydlowski, J., Kinosian, B., et al. (2014). Hospitalizations in the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 62: 320-24. Division of Health Care Finance and Policy, Executive Office of Elder Affairs. (2005). PACE Evaluation Summary. Accessed online on May 25, 2011. x Kane, R.L., Homyak, P., Bershadsky, B., et al. (2006). Variations on a theme called PACE. Journal of Gerontology Series A, 61 (7): 689-93. ** NPA “Pace by the Numbers” Infographic; Vital Research and CalPACE (2022). i-SAT.
Civil Air Patrol celebrates awards for squadron accomplishments
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
On Thursday, June 6, the Table Rock Lake Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol celebrated several awards both for squadron accomplishments and several individual cadets, in a ceremony held at Hollister High School.
The Civil Air Patrol was founded in 1941 and established as the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force seven years later. It is chartered by Congress as a nonprofit organization for purposes of youth development, aero-
space education and promotion of general aviation.
In its auxiliary role with the Air Force, CAP operates the world’s largest fleet of single-engine aircraft for search and rescue, disaster relief, training and education, and is dedicated to serving America’s communities, saving lives and shaping futures of young people. More than 64,000 members selflessly devote time, energy and expertise toward service and promotion of aviation-related fields. The Table Rock Lake squadron is open to area students ages 12
through 18, including homeschool students.
Many of the nation’s astronauts, pilots, engineers and scientists first explored their careers through the Civil Air Patrol. As cadets participate in the goals of CAP, they advance through a series of achievements and increasing responsibilities, often earning significant honors along the way for demonstration of leadership, aerospace fitness and character. The June 6 ceremony celebrated the following awards for the Table Rock squadron:
• Civil Air Patrol Squad-
ron of Distinction as a National Finalist Civil Air Patrol Squadron of Distinction for a 7-State Region
• Abigail Nievar, 7-State Regional Cadet Squadron Leader of the Year
• Rihan Fletcher, 7-State Regional Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) of the Year
• Eli Stein, earning Private Pilot License as a cadet
• Lucas Orr, earning Private Pilot License as a cadet
Squadron awards are determined at the national and
regional levels by a series of measures of squadron strength and growth, including the individual accomplishments of each cadet. Presenting the awards were Region Commander Col. John O’Neil; Missouri Wing Vice Commander Lt. Col. Raun Hamilton, representing Missouri Wing Commander Col. Jen Smith; and Hollister High School Assistant Principal Roger Brallier. Squadron Commander Steve Meinzen said he is grateful for the amazing partnership with Branson Airport and the Hollister
School District. The airport provides use of hangar space as well as space housing the squadron’s flight simulator; Hollister High School provides meeting space and also offers a summer flight training ground school, which Hollister students may take for credit but which is open to other squadron members as well. Learn more about the Missouri Wing, including background on the threefold mission of Aerospace Education, Cadet Programs, and Emergency Services, at https://mowg.cap. gov/.
Many opportunities to celebrate Independence Day in the Tri-Lakes
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Our area offers many opportunities to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks and fun!
College of the Ozarks will host their 35th Annual Honor America celebration on June 29. This year’s event, traditionally held on Sunday, has moved to Saturday evening. The festivities begin at 6 p.m., with delicious food from Chick fil A, London Calling, The Deck Pizza Company and Kilwins, as well as a variety of treats
available for sale. Children’s activities include face painting, a bounce house, games and crafts. A Blackhawk Helicopter will also be on display in the children’s area. Talented musical acts will take the stage throughout the evening.
The Hard Work U Concert Band will perform a patriotic program beginning at 8:45 p.m. and will provide a musical background for the amazing evening fireworks, as well. July 2 is the popular Fireburst event in Kimberling
City. The more than 30-yearold tradition features a dazzling display of fireworks that can be viewed by land or by boat near the Kimberling City Bridge. The brilliant fireworks display begins at approximately 9 p.m.
The Branson Landing is the site of the 17th Annual Liberty Light-Up Celebration. Liberty Light Up is set for Wednesday, July 3 at 6 p.m. Celebrate Independence Day in a big way with a concert beginning at 6:30 p.m. featuring Damsel, fol-
lowed by the Dirty Saints. A spectacular fireworks display begins at approximately 9:20 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy the fun.
The annual Rockaway Beach Rockin’ 4th of July event is held on July 4. Daytime activities include music, games and fun for all ages in downtown Rockaway Beach. The city will celebrate in style with a fireworks extravaganza at dusk. This is the 60th year that the fireworks can be seen from the banks of Lake
Three opportunities to help support CAM
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Mark your calendars for three upcoming fundraisers to benefit Christian Action Ministries.
August 28 is the date of a fun Putt-Putt Tournament at Coral Reef Mini Golf in Branson. Register now to enter the tournament with a two or four-person team. Entry fee is $55 for a two-person team or just $75 for a four-person team. The event begins with a shotgun start at 9 a.m., and tee times at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
CAM is also seeking sponsors for the tournament. A $150 donation will
list you as a Hole Sponsor and allow entry for your team of two into the tournament play. Event Sponsorship is $250 and includes the entry fee for two teams. A $300 Award Sponsorship includes entry fee for two teams, plus a Hole Sponsorship. To register or for more information, contact Laney via email at laney@christianactionministries.org. All proceeds benefit Christian Action Ministries. In September, it is time for the Fourth Annual Fishing 4 Possibilities, a unique fishing tournament at K-Dock Marina in Kirbyville. This
special tournament serves as a fundraiser for Christian Action Ministries and Coffee Creations. Registration for the fishing tournament is just $50 per boat with a maximum of two people per boat. Spon-
sorships are also available. Fishing 4 Possibilities is set for Saturday, September 14, beginning at 7 a.m.
For more information, contact Scott at 417-3342880, Guy at 417-231-7371 SEE CAM, PAGE 8A
Taneycomo.
One of the area’s longest-running traditions, the 71st Annual July 4th Fireworks display gets underway at approximately 9 p.m. in the Chad Fuqua Park in Hollister. This extravagant
the
in the
display is always a crowd pleaser. The event is preceded by food, fun and fellowship
park throughout
evening hours. The staff of The Branson Globes wishes everyone a safe and Happy 4th of July.
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A large crowd was in attendance on Friday when State Representative Brian Seitz kicked off his campaign for reelection at the Branson Hollister Lions Club.
Friends, fans and supporters of Seitz gathered to hear a recap of his accomplishments and his plans for the future, as well as hear comments from some special speakers.
“The attendance was spectacular,” said Seitz, of the event. “Many people arrived early and stayed late, the atmosphere was electric, and people were fired up.
The Branson Hollister Lions Club was packed with supporters.”
The keynote speaker for the rally was two-term Missouri Governor and former Attorney General for the United States John Ashcroft.
Seitz kicks off reelection campaign with rally
“John spoke of the state of the nation, his son Jay’s run for governor, and the importance of keeping me, a ‘conservative fighter’ in the State Capitol,” noted Seitz. “Congressman Eric Burlison also spoke of some of our times at the Capitol and various conferences and his support for my reelection. I’m proud to have their endorsements, as well as that of Senator Mike Moon, who couldn’t attend due to a previous engagement. Fellow representatives, including soon-to-be Majority Floor Leader Alex Riley and Secretary of State candidate Adam Schwadron spoke as well. Additional speeches of support came from Rep. Jamie Ray Gragg, Rep. Bob Titus, candidate Tom Franiak, Taney County Assessor candidates Davy Wilson and Susan Chapman, Taney County Eastern District Commissioner candidates Shane Keys and Travys Saffle, a representative of Brad Hudson’s campaign Madelyn Sestak, Branson Mayor Larry Milton, and Branson Aldermen Ruth Denham and Marshall Howden.”
Between speeches and
entertainment, Seitz spoke about his work in the Capitol, and shared videos of various speeches he had given on the House Floor over the past four years.
“Many in the crowd were very thankful to see the videos because, although I keep the constituents updated regularly, few have been able to make their way to Jefferson City to see me ‘in action.’ I reiterated to the crowd that my advocacy for our district has only increased over the years, and I would be honored to continue getting good work done on their behalf when reelected,” noted Seitz.
The reelection rally was filled with music and entertainment, as well, with Camille Harris performing a variety of musical genres, including patriotic tunes, gospel music and some pop tunes. A highlight of the evening was when Seitz and his wife Valerie danced on stage to a classic Beatles tune, to the delight of the audience. Branson funnyman Matt Gumm surprised the crowd by portraying Donald Trump, and Branson entertainer David Hamner pre-
sented his famous Chinese Rings.
The Friday evening event also included a meet and greet, prior to the main event, giving Seitz some one-on-one time with those in attendance.
Said Seitz, “I spoke to as many people as possible prior to the event, posed for pictures, and received many hugs. The love felt for Valerie and I was tangible, as folks recognized the amount of effort it takes to represent them in the tenacious way that I do. The voters truly do become family at this level.”
When asked about his thoughts headed towards this next election, Seitz noted, “As with any previous campaign I’ve been involved with, we go full steam ahead until the very end, always running as if we are behind. My son Daniel handles the particulars and has been majorly successful not only here but in Oklahoma. Ours is similar to a state-wide campaign in microcosm, as oftentimes I am fighting for all Missourians in a high profile way, but always, with the 156th
District top of mind. My endorsements include Missouri Right to Life, Missouri Fraternal Order of Police, Branson Firefighters Local 152, the NRA, Song of Hope, Missouri Republican Assembly, all the speakers mentioned above and more. I take none of this for granted, humbled by all the support and ready to work all the way through to the finish line.”
If you have questions for Representative Seitz, feel free to reach out to him through his campaign Facebook page. All questions will be answered in a timely manner. Said Seitz, “The communities and constituents of the 156th District continue to support me in a way that only can be God-driven. I’m thankful to God and take very seriously my promise to speak with the voice of the people. My voice remains one of the loudest and most listened to in the Capitol, as is necessary for someone from Southwest Missouri. I look forward to representing this area in the next session and beyond.”
Task Force resumes look at Missouri’s response to substance abuse
Mo.gov | Mike Lear
A Task Force that hopes to advance Missouri’s response to substance abuse has resumed work.
The Substance Abuse Treatment and Prevention Task Force met in the 2023 interim and developed recommendations for the legislature, some of which were enacted. One of those was that it be continued this year, and its chairman, Representative John Black (R-Marshfield), is glad that was passed.
“I think we’ll do more or less the same thing we did last year. We’ll look at some of the issues that we’ve identified for review this year and then hopefully the Task Force will continue to refine those and come up with more is-
sues. The budget, of course, is a big deal,” Black said after the Task Force met recently “Missouri, as our counterpart 49 other states, as well as most countries in the world, are really struggling with getting our arms around substance abuse disorder.”
He said the group heard from experts that, “[Substance abuse] is kind of how we respond to our own different mental illnesses.”
The Department of Mental Health’s Chief Medical Director, Dr. Angeline Stanislaus, opened the session with a discussion of the neurobiology of addiction. She said much has been learned in the last three decades that can guide the state’s programs. It was believed in the
medical field some 20 or 30 years ago that when a substance was out of a person’s system and they resumed using it, it was by choice and they had an issue with discipline or willpower.
“That was the mindset in which we were trained as physicians in the 1990s,” Stanislaus said. “There’s been more research now to show that just because a substance is out of the system … but all the neurotransmitter changes the substance did before it got out, they’re still lingering and the body’s still working on them. This is the new understanding over the last couple of decades, it took us this long to understand that.”
“The brain wasn’t connected the way to produce a natural level of dopamine and neurotransmitters that a brain needs for us to lead healthy lives … same thing with violence. Witnessing a lot of violence changes the brain chemistry. There’s a lot of fear. The neurotransmitters that are impacted by fear will go up, so when you have so many fear neurotransmitters going on in your brain you may seek a substance to decrease that fear.”
A brain disrupted by substance abuse will never return to what it was before, but it can heal.
rotransmitters, either through medications, combination of therapy, combination of whatever needs to be put together … that’s the true potential of what the brain can possibly do and that’s what we try to do as treatment providers.”
collaboration between those departments.”
To the Task Force’s credit, Richardson said, “I do think the focus that this task force has put on it has already led to more collaboration and coordination and discussion about this subject than I’ve seen in the 15 years I’ve been coming to Jefferson City.” Taylor appreciates the different backgrounds brought to the group. A budget-minded legislator himself, Taylor hopes to get more data about Missouri’s substance abuse response.
Stanislaus said many people who abuse substances like alcohol, cocaine, and heroin do so because they were victims of childhood abuse or neglect that altered their brain chemistry.
“The brain is such a wonderful organ. It’s very neuroplastic, that can produce itself more neurotransmitters given enough time, given treatment, this is how treatment works. Give them enough time for the brain to recreate all this dopamine and all those other neu-
Former Missouri House Speaker Todd Richardson has been the Director of MO HealthNet since 2018. Much of what the Task Force discussed with him was its recommendation from last year that a new state executive be created – what members have tentatively referred to as a “czar” – to oversee substance abuse issues across the various state departments that deal with those.
He said while the idea has merit and could work, giving one figure authority over three, four and even five departments and asking that person to understand and take on all that is involved in substance abuse issues, could prove too much to ask.
He thinks the effort the Task Force has set in motion should be given time to work.
“I think it is incredibly important that the departments continue to collaborate in this space and make sure that our policies are complimentary of each other … I think that collaboration is better than it has ever been before. While I think the idea behind having somebody to oversee this is the right thinking, I really think the best way to accomplish what you’re trying to accomplish is by trying to continue to encourage that
“Consistently I want to know: What are the programs and how do we measure effectiveness? Is the program actually working? How much have we appropriated for that program and are we spending the money that we appropriate? Let’s at least be honest and up front about how much of that is actually going to get used, how many people are you going to actually hire, and how much of that is going to lapse?” Some members weren’t present at the recent hearing due to technological or medical issues. Black hopes more members will be able to attend in subsequent hearings.
“The more people we have, the more involvement, the more good questions. That would be beneficial, but I’m very happy that the Senate, the House, and the governor’s office are supportive of the continuing work of the task force.” The Task Force will meet again in July.
Brian Seitz kicks off his reelection campaign. (Photo usbmitted)
Reader’s Corner: Meet jewelry appraisal experts at Learning on Wednesday
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
Do you own some jewelry, but you’re not sure how to assess the quality and price as part of your overall assets and financial portfolio? Maybe you found yourself in possession of some pieces from relatives who passed away, but you’re not
sure if they’re good quality, genuine gemstones, or just something your mom or grandma bought for fun? Do those pieces need repair? How do you determine the value of your jewelry and identify insurance company requirements to insure against possible loss of expensive jewelry?
If any of these questions apply to you, mark your calendar for Wednesday, July 10, and plan to join Jenny and John Caro of Table Rock Jewelry Appraisals for an informative Learning On Wednesday session at Kimberling Library, where they’ll discuss these questions and more.
The Caros bring to our community over 30 years of jewelry experience, plus membership in several gemological associations, giving them wisdom and skills on the topic of jewelry appraisal. Even if you don’t currently own jewelry you’re curious about, you might pick up some information that will
make you a more informed consumer, or prepare you for when a piece comes your way as a gift or inheritance.
The session will begin at 10:15 a.m. in the Kimberling Area Library Community Room, 45 Kimberling Blvd. in Kimberling City. Coffee and light snacks are provided; pre-registration is not
required, and attendance is FREE for this informal event. Kimberling Area Library regularly offers learning opportunities and the chance for fellowship with others in the community who share similar interests. Stay up to date on events and activities at KAL by visiting www. kalib.org.
Putting the fun in fundraising: Unique fundraiser to benefit Forsyth Library
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A special event will combine fun with fundraising for the Forsyth Library.
The library will host a Scrapbook Weekend in August. Set for August 23, 24 and
25, the weekend will unite scrapbookers from around the region who will come together to enjoy their hobby while raising needed funds for the library. Total cost for the event is
$175 per person and includes six to eight feet of scrappers’ space, one meal each day, welcome gifts, door prizes, vendors and an opportunity to share ideas, relax and enjoy your favorite hobby.
To register for the Scrapbook Weekend, call or text Cathy at 417-263-1936. Seating is limited, so early registration is suggested. The Scrapbook Weekend will be held at the beautiful
Westgate Branson Woods Resort, 2201 Roark Valley Road in Branson. Motel rooms are available for the weekend. Contact the resort and mention the Forsyth Library Scrapbook Weekend, for a special rate. All proceeds for the event benefit the Forsyth Library. For more information, contact Karen, via phone or text at 417-546-7307 or email kriskafus@yahoo.com.
Discovery Center presentation to be a part of Summer Reading Club
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
The Library Center of the Ozarks continues to encourage summer reading among area children with weekly activities and events, as part of their annual Summer Reading Club. On Monday, July 1, young readers can learn about the solar system and our planets during a presentation from the Discovery Center in Springfield. This program promises to be both entertaining and educa -
Missouri opens registration for free
dps.mo.gov
The Missouri Department of Public Safety will host a free two-day First Responders Health & Wellness Conference at the Lake of the Ozarks this fall. Because first responders face stresses and are exposed to traumatic events that do not come with other professions, the unique conference will focus on improving health and well-be-
• BOYS & GIRLS CLUB
Continued from page 1A
ration system. The program is also a win-win as older teens can get part-time jobs, helping area businesses connect with potential employees.
ing for members of the fire service, law enforcement, EMS, dispatchers, corrections officers and first-responder agency chaplains.
“Supporting Missouri first responders is an important part of our public safety priorities, including helping them build resilience to deal with the pressures and strains they can face because of the nature of their work,” Gover-
The guests were also able to chat with youth during a career-exploration session; along with watching a teen use the virtual reality set-up, they engaged in conversation, reminding the young people that connecting with businesses like Taco Bell as a
• TABLE ROCK LAKE
Continued from page 2A
of Natural Resources
tional. The Discovery Center is a nonprofit science center, with a mission to inspire curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.
There is no admission for the July 1 presentation, set to begin at 9:30 a.m. in the Library Program Room, in the Library’s lower level.
Please arrive early for the best seating. The Library Center of the Ozarks is located at 200 South 4th Street in downtown Branson.
health and wellness conference for first responders
nor Mike Parson said. “This health and wellness conference will bring together a lineup of experts to provide practical guidance in dealing with traumatic events, building peer-support teams and balancing family life with their careers.”
“Under Governor Parson’s leadership, our public safety funding has moved beyond equipment and
teen can lead to a rewarding career. The current Taco Bell CEO started as a 16-year-old employee, and a management team member from right in Branson is a former Boys & Girls Club attendee.
Boys & Girls Clubs of the
through the Federal Nonpoint Source Section 319 program to complete a watershed-based plan for multiple sub watersheds within the Table Rock
tactical training to include supporting first responder mental health and wellness,” Department of Public Safety Director Sandy Karsten said.
“In 2022, DPS launched a free first responder critical incident stress management training program to help build peer-support teams across the state. This conference will help bolster this critical support of Missouri’s
Ozarks is one of more than 450 youth-focused groups that will receive community grants from the Foundation this year. The grants are partly funded by the generosity of customers who round up their purchases at the restaurant,
Lake area. The grant period runs from November 2023 to December 2026
first responders.” Registration for the free conference, which includes meals for attendees and lodging for those who reside over 60 miles from the conference site, has opened for up to 300 first responders. The conference will be held Oct. 24-25, 2024, at the Lodge of the Four Seasons, 315 Four Seasons Drive, Lake Ozark, MO 65049. Conference
something that is available at several area restaurant locations and doesn’t take much time or even much money per donor, but really adds up if everyone gets on board.
Learn more about the Taco Bell Foundation at https://
and requires an additional 40% non-federal match by the grant partners.
check-in is on the afternoon of Oct. 23, with lodging provided the 23rd and 24th. The conference is open to law enforcement, the fire service, EMS, dispatchers, corrections officers and chaplains. The conference registration link is: https:// www.memberleap.com/ members/evr/reg_event. php?orgcode=MOST&evid=41192077
www.tacobellfoundation. org/who-we-support/. See these valuable programs in action for yourself by scheduling a visit to an area club, and see how you can get involved by visiting https:// www.bgcozarks.org.
H2Ozarks is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization.
••TRAVEL TRAILER-POLARIS S/S••
• 2016 GRAND DESIGN SOLITUDE 379FI 5TH WHEEL, 42’, 5 SLIDES, AUTO LEVELING SYSTEM, WASHER/DRYER HOOKUP, FIREPLACE, POWER AWNING, 12 PLY TIRES NEW IN 2021 – APPROX. 3,000 MILES ON THEM.
• 2020 POLARIS RANGER XP 1000, 4X4, DUAL OVERHEAD CAM, HEAT/AC, POWER WINDOWS, POWER STEERING, BACKUP CAMERA, NAVIGATION, STEREO, SLIDING BACK GLASS, SIGNAL LIGHTS, BUDDY SEAT INSTALLED IN BED, EASILY REMOVED, ONE OWNER LIKE NEW ONLY 570 MILES.
1. JD 1952 MODEL MC SERIAL # 17948
2. JD 1940 MODEL L SERIAL # 631135
3. JD MODEL LA SERIAL # NO TAG
4. JD MODEL A SERIAL # 436725
5. JD MODEL H SERIAL # UNKNOWN
6. JD MODEL B SERIAL # UNKNOWN
7. JD 1936 MODEL B SERIAL # 180878
8. JD MODEL B SERIAL # 35044 PARTS
9. JD 1957 MODEL 720 DIESEL SERIAL # 7209451
10. JD 1936 MODEL A SERIAL # 426931 11. JD 1931 MODEL B SERIAL # 11318 12. JD 1941 MODEL B SERIAL # 108995 13. JD 1948 MODEL D SERIAL # 178653 14. JD MODEL GP SERIAL # UNKNOWN
15. JD 1950 MODEL MT SERIAL # 22965
16. JD 1936 MODEL B SERIAL # 22299
17. JD 1936 MODEL B SERIAL # 24740
18. JD 1940 MODEL H SERIAL # 20007
19. ROCK ISLAND MODEL G-2 SERIAL # 90274 YEAR 1929-1932
20. JD 1935 MODEL A SERIAL # 418976
21. JD 1936 MODEL B SERIAL # 16668
22. JD 1950 MODEL MT SERIAL # 20124
23. JD 1936 MODEL B SERIAL # 18921
24. JD 1938 MODEL AR SERIAL # 255634
25. JD 1935 MODEL B SERIAL # 6469
26. JD 1936 MODEL B SERIAL 10258
27. JD 6200 TRACTOR, OPEN STATION, 8100 HRS
28. JD 4030 CAB TRACTOR, DIESEL, 7264 HRS
29. JD 140 LAWN TRACTOR W/MOWER DECK, HYD FRONT BLADE, FULL HYD HOOKUPS
TRUCKS••
1. 1955 DODGE ½ TON
2. 1969 DODGE MODEL C 500 LIME TRUCK
3. 1957 DODGE 100 SWEPTSIDE (APPROX 200 MADE IN SWEPTSIDE CONFIGURATION)
4. 1954 DODGE MODEL H
5. 1957 DODGE CAB
6. 1957 DODGE 200 FRONT CLIP
7. 1947 DODGE ½ TON
8. 1940 DODGE ½ TON
• 3 PT BALE SPIKE
• 3 PT HYD BALE CARRIER
• 3 PT 1 BOTTOM PLOW
• JD RG 3 PT 8 ROW CULTIVATOR
• JD 2 BOTTOM DISC PLOW
• JD 116 SIDE DISCHARGE SQUARE BALER
• JD 2 ROW PLANTER
• JD PULL TYPE 2 BOTTOM PLOW
• JD 4 BOTTOM DISC PLOW
• SIDE DELIVERY RAKE
• MASSEY HARRIS CORN SHELLER
MONTGOMERY WARD 2 ½ HP SERIAL # 15877 ••IMPLEMENTS & MISC.••
• NEW IDEA 12 A MANURE GOOD CONDT
• 4 WHEEL DUMP WAGON W/LIFT CYLINDER
• NEW IDEA 121 E DROP SEEDER
• PULL TYPE SPRAYER
9. 1970 DODGE 1 TON
10. 1974 DODGE VAN
11. 1984 DODGE MODEL 250 PARTS
12. 1967 DODGE MODEL C500 LIME TRUCK
14. 1984 DODGE ½ TON W/SNOW PLOW
CARS••
2. 1953 DODGE MEADOW BROOK
13. 1971 DODGE MODEL W 900 TRACTOR CUMMINS 9 SPD
1. 1971 DODGE CHARGER SE 383 MOTOR (MISSING) 4 BARREL CARB W/3 SPD MANUAL (1 OF 15)
4. 1966 PLYMOUTH BARRACUDA
5. 1935? PLYMOUTH COUP
6. 1967 PLYMOUTH BARRACUDA PARTS
7. 1955 DODGE CUSTOM
8. 1969 DODGE DART PARTS ••TRAILERS
• 20’ LOWBOY TRAILER
3. STUDEBAKER MODEL & YEAR UNKNOWN
• 32’ AMERICAN ALUM GRIAN TRAILER, DUAL TANDEM AXLE
• 2014 RICE STEALTH CUSTOM UTILITY TRAILER W/HEAVY DUTY FOLD DOWN RAMP, FRONT DIAMOND PLATE TOOL BOX, GOOD TIRES 6 ½’X12’, ALWAYS UNDER COVER
• PULL TYPE FEED WAGON PTO
• SLIDE IN STOCK RACKS
• 2 TON PORTABLE CREEP FEEDER
• 3 HOG FEEDERS
• PORTABLE HOG CHUTE
• AUTOMATIC FEEDERS
• FARROWING CRATES
• CEMENT MIXER
• AUTOMATIC WATERER
• GALVANIZED WATER TANK
• CONCRETE FORMS
• SEVERAL JD & MOPAR PARTS
• GRIST MILL
• BED LINER
MANY MORE ITEMS ADDED BEFORE SALE DATE
THIS IS FOUR GENERATIONS OF ANTIQUE & CLASSIC COLLECTION OF THE McCAULEYS. THEY ARE A WELL KNOWN FAMILY THAT HAS BEEN IN THE NIXA AREA FOR MANY, MANY YEARS. YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS THIS GREAT AUCTION!
• 16’ HOMEMADE BUMPER TANDEM AXLE TRAILER
USACE reminds everyone to be water safe this Independence Day
Submitted to Branson Globe
As the nation prepares to celebrate Independence Day with festivities, family gatherings and outdoor activities, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Little Rock District, is urging everyone to prioritize
water safety while enjoying the region’s lakes and rivers.
“As we celebrate our independence, it’s important to remember that safety comes first. By taking a few simple precautions, we can ensure
that our time at the lake or river is enjoyable and accident-free,” said Col. Damon Knarr, Little Rock District Commander.
“Let’s make this 4th of July memorable for all the right reasons.”
With an increase in rec-
reational water activities during this holiday, it’s crucial to ensure that safety measures are in place to prevent accidents and injuries. Expect more boats and swimmers on the water and maintain a safe speed and be vigilant for
swimmers if you are boating. Remember to always wear your life jacket when on or near water, don’t drink alcoholic beverages and operate a boat, never swim alone and stick to designated swim areas. By following these guide-
lines, we can all enjoy a safe and festive Independence Day. Recreation information can be found on the Internet at www.swl.usace.army.mil, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/littlerockusace and on X at www.x.com/ usacelittlerock.
Red Cross critical donor need: Be a force of nature and give blood now
to Branson Globe
Submitted
As the busy Fourth of July holiday week gets closer, the American Red Cross asks donors to be a powerful force for good by giving blood or platelets now and in the weeks to come. You can be the difference between someone’s storm and their sunshine. Donors are critically needed right now after a sharp decrease in donations since late spring. All blood types are needed, especially donors giving type O blood and those giving platelets.
Full summer calendars and holiday plans may prevent regular donors from being able to give. Additionally, significant summer weather threats such as hurricanes, flooding and tornadoes can result in travel hazards and blood drive
cancellations that could impact the blood supply. Help keep lifesaving blood products stocked on hospital shelves and book a time to give blood or platelets by visiting RedCrossBlood. org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
The Red Cross has teamed up with Universal Pictures for the theatrical release of TWISTERS to help avoid a summer blood shortage. All who come to give blood or platelets July 1-31 will get a Fandango Movie Ticket* by email. Plus, those who come to give July 1-14 will also receive a one-of-a-kind TWISTERS and Red Cross umbrella, while supplies last. BONUS: Those who come to give blood in July will also automatically be entered for a chance to win a
2025 Ram 1500 Big Horn®. See RedCrossBlood.org/ Twisters for full details.
Swarms of tornadoes and extreme flooding in recent months have tragically taken lives and destroyed entire communities. Most recently, millions of people have endured one of the longest lasting and strongest heat waves in years, including large portions of the Midwest. Unfortunately, in states like Arkansas, Ohio and Nebraska, many communities are still picking up the pieces and recovering from the second most active tornado season on record, according to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center.
“The Red Cross is grateful to have partners like Universal Pictures who are not only lending this support to
encourage blood donations during this critical time of year but have also generously donated to help support disaster relief,” said Jennifer Pipa, vice president of Disaster Programs for the Red Cross. “Because of the climate crisis, the Red Cross is now launching twice as many relief operations for major disasters than we did a decade ago. And disasters are not only straining our relief operations but also our ability to collect lifesaving blood donations. So far this year we have collected 20,000 fewer blood donations due to severe weather.”
In just the first five months of the year, the Red Cross has responded to 20 tornado related disasters across 13 states. Unfortunately, meteorologists expect more powerful and destructive storms to continue
in the months to come as the effects of the climate crisis continue. This year’s outlook is part of a years-long trend of more frequent and intense climate disasters, such as hurricanes, wildfires, severe storms and floods.
Dare to be a force of nature this summer. Give blood or make a financial donation to the Red Cross by visiting RedCross.org. How to donate blood Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two
other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements. Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.
$335,000 under this Agreement. If the Development Project fails to produce the full $335,000 in 15 years, the City is not obligated to pay the difference to the Applicant. The City will retain a 2% Administrative Fee for work performed to fulfill the City’s obligations under this Agreement, including processing the reimbursement and ensuring that State laws and Department of Revenue regulations are followed.”
• CAM Continued from page 3A
The Agreement only applies to the City of Branson’s 1% Sales tax. Unlike a TIF, it does not affect the taxes of any other taxing jurisdiction. The City keeps all tax revenues from its 4% Tourism Tax on shows, attractions and lodging, the Public Safety Tax, and all other city taxes.
or Elizabeth at 417-5270397.
According to the staff report, The City may, under 70.210 [of the Missouri Revised Statutes], “enter into sales tax reimbursement agreements with private corporations for common services as long as the purposes of the contract are within the scope of powers of the City. Under a sales tax reimbursement agreement, a developer agrees to pay for costs of the development
upfront and the City agrees to reimburse the developer for some of the development costs when the development begins to generate tax revenue. To approve this Agreement, the board of aldermen should find: 1) that the use of the tax revenues in this way is a public purpose; and 2) that the Agreement is entered into for a common service to the City of Branson.”
The Staff report recommended approval saying that “The use of sales tax revenues through this incentive will support the City’s economy through providing opportunities for residents to work year-round and provide the City with additional property and tourism tax revenue, which results in further support for the City’s economy and the ability of the City to provide services
An October Golf Tournament, Tee Up for Hunger, benefits the efforts of both Christian Action Ministries and the Boys and Girls Club in Stone County.
The 18-hole, four-man scramble is set for October 2, with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Held at Ledgestone Golf Course in Branson West, the tournament promises lots of fun, including an 18-hole contest scramble, Longest Drive and Longest Putt competitions, Closest to the Hole and Hole in One contests and more.
to its residents and promote the welfare of the community as a whole.” The Board approved the First Reading of the Agreement by a six (6) to Zero (0) vote. Unless someone makes and the Board approves a request to remove this item at the next meeting, the Second Reading and final approval will be included in the Consent Agenda, which the Board will approve as a whole.
An entry fee of $500 guarantees your team a spot in the tournament, and includes green fee and cart for four people. Sponsorship opportunities are also available, beginning at just $250.
For more information, contact Kari at 501-5165054 or Laney at stoneco@ christianactionministries. org.
A nonprofit organization, Christian Action Ministries works to combat food insecurity in Taney County and Stone County in Southwest Missouri, through their local food banks, mobile services and outreach events.
Thank you for reading the
75 Doc Miller Rd., Blue Eye (the old Spicy Tomatoes Restaurant on Hwy 13)
• SOCIAL BIRDY
What is a lightning rod?
By Stephanie Callahan, Owner/Lightspeed Electrical
A lightning protection system protects the facility by safely catching the strike and transmitting the electrical energy to the ground. A surge protection system guards your equipment against damage by diverting surge currents.
In short, no, they are not the same thing. Surge protection is installed internally, whereas the lightning arrestors are exclusively installed to tackle the issue of high voltage from a lightning strike. The latter is installed outside.
Lightning rods are not a thing of the past, and there are many installed on homes across the country. In fact, proper lightning protection systems have multiple lightning rods spread out across the top of the structure. You don’t see them because they aren’t the tall monstrosities that they once were.
As the name implies,
Stephanie Callahan, Owner/Lightspeed Electrical
lightning protection is to prevent direct or side lightning strikes, and grounding is to introduce lightning current to the ground. Electrical grounding is divided into protective grounding and working grounding. Is a lightning rod the same as a grounding rod?
An electrical ground is typically made by connecting a metal rod to the earth and to the electrical system, either at the service entrance or at a specific outlet. A lightning rod, on the other hand, is a metal rod that is designed to attract lightning strikes away from a building or structure.
C3 Industries to open ninth dispensary in Missouri: Grand opening in Branson is June 28
Submitted to Branson Globe C3 Industries (“C3” or “the Company,”) a leading multi-state cannabis company dedicated to crafting premium cannabis experiences for consumers, announced the opening of its ninth dispensary in Missouri and 25th store nationwide. The new dispensary will feature the best pricing on pre-rolls, edibles and vapes in the area, along with the widest selection of products and strains in the Branson region.
On Friday, June 28, High Profile Branson will begin serving cannabis consumers in the former Jurassic Land building at 3125 Green Mountain Drive in Branson from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, ahead of the summer tourist season in the “Live Entertainment Capital of the World.” Upon
opening, customers will receive everyday deals such as half ounces starting at $69, eighths starting at $20, one-gram pre-rolls starting at $8, one gram vapes starting at $40 and 100 mg edibles starting at $10. New customers at High Profile Branson will receive 25% off a single, full-priced item with a High Rollers loyalty program sign-up from June 28 through June 30. Additionally, Branson service industry workers will enjoy perks and discounts by signing up for industry night on Mondays.
“This opening marks our ninth store in Missouri and a significant milestone as our 25th nationwide,” said C3 Industries President and Co-founder Vishal Rungta. “High Profile Branson, our latest dispensary, is located in the scenic Ozark Mountains and the vibrant heart of live entertainment. Branson’s unique blend of natural beauty and bustling tourism makes it an ideal location for our expansion in Missouri. We look forward to bringing our commitment to quality, variety and value
to the Branson community and its visitors. This expansion also reflects our growing footprint and our dedication to serving consumers with top-tier cannabis experiences wherever they are.”
As part of its grand opening celebrations, High Profile Branson will host the off-site event “Best of Branson - High Profile Karaoke Championships 2024,” in partnership with Waxy O’Shea’s Irish Pub on Friday, June 28, from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. The event is open to the public, with the grand prize winner awarded $1,000, 2nd place winner $500 and 3rd place winner $250 in prize money.
In addition to the karaoke championship, High Profile Branson will also be celebrating its official grand opening from Friday, June 28, through Wednesday, July 3, with grand opening festivities including live music and gourmet food options, as well as a variety of deals, promotions and freebies. See below for a full schedule of grand opening events: Grand opening celebra-
tion schedule
• Friday, June 28
◊ Custom Merchandise: High Profile Branson t-shirts and camo hats (while supplies last).
◊ Best of Branson Event: High Profile Karaoke Champion-
offer all High Roller Loyalty members the ability to earn points on every dollar they spend, then cash out whenever they are ready. All High Roller members have the ability to earn 50 free points upon signing up, along with early access to special events and offers, referral perks, double points on Tuesdays and members-only bonus discounts. About C3 Industries
C3 Industries is a multistate, vertically integrated cannabis company headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with multiple product brands including the award-winning Cloud Cover Cannabis and Galactic Cannabis, and a retail network, High Profile Cannabis Shop. The company retails high-quality cannabis products at its High Profile locations in Michigan, Missouri, Massachusetts, Illinois and New Jersey. For more information, visit www.c3industries. com. Additional information about High Profile Cannabis Shop can be found by signing up for the company’s newsletters at www. highprofilecannabis.com and on Instagram at @highprofileofficial. Additional information on Cloud Cover Cannabis can be found at www.cloudcovercannabis. com and @cloudcovercannabis on Instagram. Additional information on Galactic Cannabis can be found at www.galacticcannabis.com and @galactic.cannabis on Instagram.
LEFT: Lightning rod. RIGHT: Grounding rod.
(Photo courtesy C3 Industries)
Braschler, Tyler Cilfton 34 Omaha, NE Cremations of the Ozarks Graham, Wayne 84 Forsyth Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel Hall, Alvin 75 Rockaway Beach Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel Ingram, Mark Allen 64 Branson West Cremations of the Ozarks Kenyon, Howard L. 81 Taneyville Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel Mullen, Maria 63 Ridgedale Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory
Why business owners need
BY RAMSEY SOLUTIONS
Picture this: Work is un-
der control, you’ve got a plan in place to keep plates spinning without you for the week, and you’re finally on an actual work-free getaway. Heck, you’re feeling so free and clear, and you and your family are building vacation memories Hallmark would kill to capture on film.
Wishful thinking, right?
We get it. No matter how badly you need a vacation, it can feel like an impossible dream at any stage of business. Getting away from work takes work—especially when you’re the business owner (aka the chief everything officer).
But no matter how tricky it is to disconnect from running your business, you need a vacation . . . even if you start with just a day off or long weekend. So, let’s unpack why taking time off is so important and how to plan your getaway so coming back to work feels less crazy. Why you need to say, “I need a vacation”
Here’s the hard truth: You need a break. And it’s healthy to admit it. But don’t stop there. Once you’ve said those four powerful words—I need a vacation—you’ve got to make it happen.
Here’s the Debbie Downer side of why breaks are important:
• Working long hours increases your chance of death from heart disease and stroke.
Middle-aged men who skip annual vacations are more likely to die from cardiovascular causes, including heart attacks.
That’ll get your attention! But besides being scared straight, you need a vacation for positive reasons like these:
You’ll enjoy things that fill your soul. Taking a break from work gives you more time to be with family and friends and enjoy the great outdoors. Why is this a big deal?
Because 83% of Americans say being with family and friends gives them the most meaning, and 71% say experiencing nature fills them up.
• You’ll stir up new ideas, solve nagging problems, and make better decisions. Imagine the fresh ideas you’ll come up with as you refresh your mind and let new creativity flow.
• You’ll grow, and your leaders will grow, too.
An old Chinese proverb says, “When I hear it, I forget it. When I see it, I remember it. When I do it, I know it.” In other words, when your leaders and team members are given the chance to apply new skills and take
on more responsibility in your absence, they build confidence and develop their leadership skills.
You’ll fine-tune your work processes and systems. Your goal of taking a real vacation is a great motivator for you to get your processes and systems in order.
You’ll develop a healthier company culture. When you actually disconnect from work, you give your team permission to enjoy a healthy work-life balance, too.
You’ll make strides in three of the six Drivers of Business: Personal, People and Plan. And as you master these areas, your business naturally grows. So, what are we saying? For the love of your health and the fantastic wins awaiting you, take a vacation from business! Three keys to planning your vacation strategy 1. Prepare your business.
• Hire people you trust. Building confidence to be away from work starts with building a strong team. You do this by hiring people who align with your core values and operate with a self-employed mentality. What we mean by that is team members who own their work and the good of
the company even when no one is watching. Trustworthy team members are ready to take on more responsibilities.
• Set clear boundaries. No matter how little or how much operations shift during your absence, ensure the people you work closely with know you won’t be available to handle certain tasks. Tell your clients and vendors when and how business tasks will get done while you’re away. And if you completely shut down your business while you’re gone, give a “business is closed for vacation” notice weeks in advance. You’ll be amazed how supportive people are when you loop them in early. Use technology. Automate repetitive tasks like invoicing, calendar scheduling and inventory management using software. You can also streamline operations by using automated email responses. The better you communicate when you plan to return and what to do in case of emergency, the more confident others will be in your service to them.
2. Prepare your team (in other words, delegate).
• Cross-train team members. Great leaders prepare their team members
to cover lots of tasks so they can rise to new opportunities when duty calls. This is an important part of delegating with confidence. To grow your business—and to take a break from it—you’ve got to release some things to others who can handle them well. If you’re worried that handing things off to others will be a burden to them, stop. When you trust and elevate high-performing team members, it’s called upskilling, and it actually motivates them more.
• Set clear expectations. Documenting your work and how you get it done gives your team the gift of clarity and sets you all up for a delegation win. If you really want to streamline your workflow, go a step further and identify what work is essential and what’s nonessential while you’re away.
• Designate a point person. Who do you trust to handle communication and filter what’s urgent enough to contact you while you’re away? That’s your point person. Identifying them is another critical part of effective delegation. Let your point person know what constitutes a true emergency,
and empower only them to reach out to you. One business owner we know tells his team, “Only call in case of fire, flood or blood.”
3. Prepare yourself. Plan well in advance. When you schedule your vacation, you can block your calendar so nothing gets scheduled while you’re away.
• Review finances and contracts. Check upcoming financial obligations like bills to pay and contracts that need to be signed. Also, look over your insurance coverage and make sure your policies are active to avoid surprises if an emergency happens. Disconnect with intentionality. Your vacation goal is to set aside distractions and do things you love with the people you love. Read, go fishing, play with your kids, or take a nap—whatever refreshes you! If unwinding is hard for you, try yoga, prayer or journaling to help you work through distractions and clear your head. Having some time to think will help you pinpoint business and leadership gaps you need to work on when you return. But once you identify them, set them aside and be present where you are.
Mundy, Lois M. 79 Forsyth Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel Pucel, Larry William 70 Blue Eye Cremations of the Ozarks Smith, William “Bill” L. 84 Hollister Cremations of the Ozarks Stephenson, Perry G. 63 Hollister Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel Wippich, Frederick Jr. 94 Formerly of Forsyth Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer
Studying Proverbs with the First5 community has been a great experience, including stories of fellow users seeing these timeless truths play out in their lives. Scholars generally agree the book’s pithy “if, then” statements and comparisons of “the righteous” vs.
“the wicked” are not exactly promises but rather general principles illustrating God’s best plans for humanity. A study of King Solomon, who likely authored much of Proverbs, shows he had plenty of slip-ups, but over his lifetime, he learned God’s principles were true. This week, I studied Proverbs 18:1: “He who isolates himself pursues selfish desires; he rebels against all sound judgment.”
We are surrounded by more information and entertainment choices than ever before, and yet there is an alarming mental health crisis, with increased suicide rates in several age groups and an alarming number of military veterans. Could it
be technology has pushed us not into meaningful relationship with fellow humans, but into dangerous isolation? Not to be confused with intentional private time in prayer and meditation, isolation can lead to making unwise decisions based on a confusing amount of online info; not enjoying time with other people, and eventually facing devastating loneliness. I explored this topic while researching my article, “AI and the Church” for a denominational publication. Dr. James Bradford, senior pastor at Central Assembly in nearby Springfield, shared concerns that people who got out of the habit of in-person church during
COVID-19 restrictions were at spiritual risk due to isolation from Christian community. One can type a question about the Bible or spirituality into ChatGPT and get an answer, but who knows how the program decided what information to pull from. Compare that to personal fellowship at a Bible-believing church, where a Spirit-filled pastor spends time in prayer and study about sermon content and other Christians provide encouragement and accountability.
Proverbs 18:17 refers to cross-examining information, something the Apostle Paul commended the Berean church in the New Testament for doing. Discussion
with others can lead to greater insight. Most of Paul’s writing centers around community—encouraging each other, prayer for each other, and yes, working out the occasional issue rather than letting it fester (compare that to the vitriol that often occurs online).
Verse 24 mentions a “friend who sticks closer than a brother.” That kind of friend is rarely found via AI or social media, but chances of meaningful connection are pretty good at in-person church, volunteer work and community events. Several veteran friends here in the Branson area attest to the camaraderie of shared military experience, something veterans tend to miss if they don’t
find ways to continue it. If you’ve gotten out of the habit of in-person church, find one and get involved! There are many good ones to choose from. Find a place to volunteer. If you’re a veteran, join one of the local groups. If physical disabilities are an issue, there are online groups like First5 with ways to interact; also, check into transportation through area senior services or nonprofits. Sometimes we can’t prevent isolation, such as when courageous Christians are imprisoned for their faith. In such circumstances, God is still with those who seek Him, but while we have the privilege to gather, let’s gather!
pinion
First Amendment to the United States Constitution
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishement of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
ROB DOHERTY Publisher (504) 583-8907 robd@bransonglobe.com
JANET STEINKAMP Editor editor@bransonglobe.com
GARY J. GROMAN Independent Journalist
KIM CHAPPELL Ad Designer gabbydor210@gmail.com
PATTY DOERPINGHAUS
Stone Co. Account Rep. (530) 739-5560 pattyd.ads@gmail.com
MARK FEDER Taney Co. Account Rep. (805) 320-3746 shotgunart@yahoo.com
JOHN FULLERTON Area Historian
LUANNA FULLERTON Entertainment Writer luanna65@hotmail.com
The comments on opinion pages are the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily those of the Branson Globe, or its staff. Have something to say? Share it with us in your own Letter to the Editor. Letters to the editor sent via e-mail and fewer than 400 words are given preference. Published or unpublished letters become the property of the newspaper and will not be returned. All letters must include, name, address, and verifiable phone number. The editors may refuse publication of any letter that is libelous, in poor taste, or that endorses a business or product. Letters are subject to editing.
BY GARY J. GROMAN a.k.a. The Ole Seagull
It is highly probable. Throughout his life, the Ole Seagull has been told, “Everyone is created equal.” However, his 83 years of life continually show him the fallacy of that statement. From his earliest days in school, he realized he was not the intellectual equal of those much brighter than him or the athletic equal of those who excelled in sports, etc. As he nears the end of his seasons, he knows that, along with many other things, his singing voice could never come close to that of a Doug Gabriel or George Dyer, and his ability to entertain and mesmerize audiences could never equal that of the incomparable Shoji Tabuchi, Clay Cooper, or Neal McCoy, nor would he ever have the ability of Gary Presley, “Herkimer” to make people laugh. When people say, “Everyone is created equal,” they
BY JOSHUA HESTON StateoftheOzarks Media & Design
The solstice sun is bright, the air, heavy. Squinting against sweat, the world turns briefly gray, sepia, then fades back to color. Heat and exertion do strange things.
“Too bad we can’t bale hay in the winter,” I can hear my mom saying, wiping sweat and shifting her dark sunglasses. She was a small, tough, beautiful woman who thought nothing of dragging 60-pound bales of alfalfa through the field, driving trailer-loads of hay across the rolling Illinois prairies, and making sure supper was on the table. She taught me how to work, how to push beyond limits, leaving comfort and ego behind. When I was a soft, pale, flabby kid on the cusp of adolescence, she pushed me. The worn-out hay wagon creaked beneath the weight of too many bales as the
DNA: The great equalizer?
often mean that everyone should have the same rights and opportunities, and that’s absolutely true. But even with that, some will go farther, faster and accomplish much more than their peers. Why?
The simple fact is that people are different physically and mentally. Our DNA, that unique code in our bodies, plays a significant role in making us different and virtually assures “that we are not all created equal.” It influences everything from physical appearance to health, intellect and behavior.
DNA affects our physical traits. Every person has a unique combination of genes, the basic units of heredity passed down from our parents. These genes determine our eye color, hair color, height and even the shape of our nose. For example, if both of your parents are tall, you are more likely to be tall because of the genes you inherit from them. Similarly, your chances of having curly hair or blue eyes depend on the specific genes you get from your parents. These differences are why no two people look exactly alike except identical twins with the same DNA.
Beyond physical traits, DNA also influences our
health. Some people inherit genes that make them more susceptible to certain diseases. For example, if a particular disease runs in your family, you might have a higher risk of developing it because of the genes you inherit. Some people inherit genes that make them less prone to certain illnesses, some more prone. Even with the same lifestyle and environment, two people can have very different health outcomes based on their genetic makeup.
DNA also plays a significant role in our abilities and talents. While hard work and practice are crucial, genetic factors can give some people a natural advantage in certain areas. For example, some people might have genes that make them naturally good at running, giving them an edge in athletics. Others might have genes that contribute to musical talent or an aptitude for math. These genetic predispositions don’t guarantee success but can provide a helpful starting point.
Our DNA influences our personality and behavior. Researchers find that specific characteristics can be passed down to varying degrees. These traits include temperament, risk-taking,
and aspects of intelligence. However, this doesn’t imply that our environment and experiences are irrelevant. They still play a significant role. Genetic factors can shape the way we respond to our surroundings and the choices we make. For instance, someone with a genetic predisposition for high intelligence might find it easier to excel in academic settings. Yet another person with a different genetic predisposition may find learning in that environment challenging.
It’s important to note that while DNA plays a significant role in shaping who we are, it is not the only factor.
Known as “gene-environment interaction,” DNA also influences how we respond to our environment and experiences. For example, a person with a genetic predisposition for high anxiety might be more affected by stressful situations compared to someone without that predisposition. Similarly, a person with a natural talent for music might thrive in an environment that nurtures their talent. At the same time, someone without that genetic advantage might not achieve the same level of proficiency despite similar training. Similarly,
someone genetically predisposed to a specific health condition can take preventive measures to reduce risk. Understanding the role of DNA in creating differences among people helps us appreciate the complexity of human diversity. It also highlights the importance of personalized approaches in medicine and education. For instance, recognizing genetic predispositions can lead to more effective medical treatments tailored to an individual’s genetic profile. Understanding that students have different genetic strengths and weaknesses can help create learning environments that cater to diverse needs.
While an Ole Seagull believes that no one is created “superior” to another, the concept that everyone is “created equal,” except as a matter of legislative creation, flies in the face of everyday reality and science. It’s a simple, and, to an Ole Seagull, undeniable fact that our DNA creates unique individuals with DNA that virtually assures inequality. That’s not bad; it’s just how it is. To him, recognizing that can help us work towards a society that values, supports and maximizes each person’s unique potential.
Been Thinkin’ About...Hay field rites
tractor pulled over one-toomany ruts in the field. Poorly stacked bales shifted precariously, plunging forward with me on them. Fortunately, the tractor stopped. Nobody said farm work was safe. Just the same, hay season was special magic for me. Town kids, public school kids, can keep their teamwork and their track meets and special uniforms. I’ll take the hay fields with all the sweat and dust and impractical danger as the sun beats down, hour after hour. The gritty rawness reaches far beyond acceptability.
“Wear a long-sleeved shirt so you won’t sunburn!” Boyhood rites of passage don’t make sense to polite, androgynous society, to the experts or the egg heads or the overly protective mothers. Hay season was a time of worn work jeans and cowboy boots, men in sleeveless shirts and open shirts and no shirts at all, all braced against the towering sun and the weight of bale after endless bale. To be strong enough to pick up a hay bale and toss it onto the wagon? That’s like crack cocaine to a boy longing to join the ranks of manhood, to be accepted, to be seen, to
From our readers
Are we confused?
An area of life that has devastated mankind for thousands of years is war. Hatred and Greed have been a staple of life since after the Garden of Eden where mankind got his start. Most people know the story of Cain and Abel when the first murder was committed. Ever since then, because of hatred and greed, people have been destroying one another individually and by countries. Let’s look at a couple aspects of life. The human
family is a wonderful combination of husband, wife and children. Each family member is a contribution to the family society one way or another. They love one another and support the family arrangement for its betterment. As children are growing up, they must live under the family rules. When grown, they must live under the government arrangement where they live and adjust to their environment and move forward. No matter where we live or our background in the
be respected. I worked hard those long summers, working to be able to buck a bale, to be as strong as a man. Unknown to me at that time, I was never alone. Agrarian societies have — for as long as there have been agrarian societies — measured manhood by feats of strength. I am sitting in front of a new computer, late autumn, 1990. I was always bookish, always sensitive. The computer was fancy back in those days and it had a handful of games, inserted via floppy disk. I was obsessed, as only 12-year-old boys can be. Competitive, and confident that with the right combination of arrow keys, I could be a Jump Jet champion, even as a pixelated and grinning pink skull bounced into my equally pixelated fighter jet on level 10 and the game restarted. “I don’t know how he can spend so many hours on that thing.” The words drift over the remains of a Thanksgiving meal, the tone disdainful. Competition takes many forms and worlds forever collide, me never quite in one world, never quite in the other. No wonder I have a love of crossroads.
world, the program of life is the same. If that is true and family love is so important to our lives, why is there so much murder in all areas of the world? At Exodus 20:13 it states: “Thou shalt not kill.” Yet that appears to be a mainstay of civilization. Why is it that people hate their fellow man?
Here’s two recent examples. Some people will pay up to a million dollars to ransom one person’s life. Then on the other side of the coin others will shoot bombs indiscriminately killing inno-
“What are you training for?” I spend many hours in the gym. Still, the question is awkward. Others train for competitions, or particular events, like holiday 5Ks. I assume they also grew up with teams and uniforms and track meets. It’s all alien to me and my deer-in-the-headlights stare leads others (I’m sure) to conclude I’m just not quite right in the head. “What am I training for? Life, war, or dessert.” Everything is a joke with me because a joke is easier than the truth. Easier than attempting to voice the thousand images that flash through my mind, the heat of the fields, the never-ending quest, the journey to — and into — manhood, the inexorable fight against the great wheel of time, the drive to create, to become more than I am. The 80-pound tractor tire looks immovable sitting there on the urban sidewalk, blocking foot traffic outside the gym. The clock is ticking. Deep squat, hands beneath the tread, push with the hips; the tire flips. Repeat, again and again. Keep your breathing under control, Josh. Focus. Ignore
cent individuals and families without conscience of their wicked act—then say they are justified because of another person’s wicked acts. The Apostle John wrote this thought: Does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. Yes, man is confused! It’s not going to happen that all this misery will cease anytime soon because of hate and greed. It would be great if we all realized that mankind is ONE worldwide family and we are all brothers and sisters no
the pain. Ignore the heat. Ignore the heart rate. Peripheral vision fades. I holler when I lift. It helps control the breathing. The elderly couple making their way to the salon look around, startled. The more polite facets of my brain want to break away, to rush over, calm them, let them know I’m not like this all the time, I’m not really angry. But there is a time and place for anger, for strength, for overwhelming force of will, however fleeting. And there is beauty in raw power far removed from polite, tepid society. Yin and yang, sun and moon, light and shadow, an eternal, ancient dance. And tonight, against the heat of the summer solstice, a waning strawberry moon rules over the eastern forests, whispering the cool dark, the mysteries of life and the unknown, the passionate rising of the blood. I am again called out beneath the pale light to memories intense and impossible to forget. Lessons long-past, but never really far away. Again, I smell the alfalfa, and remember the old hay field rites beneath an eternal summer sun.
matter where we live, what we look like, our race, or our ethnicity. Basically, we are all the children of Adam and Eve. However, since the flood of Noah’s day we are his children. Our Creator did such a wonderful job putting variance in our body making billions of individuals or (one of a kind each). If we would only follow Jesus’ two commandments when he said at Matthew 22:37-39 Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy SEE LETTERS, PAGE 3B
BY PAT LAMB Columnist
There may be no better time than Independence Day for parents to instill in children the attitude and feeling of patriotism. As children experience the beautiful fireworks displays and understand that the same thing is happening throughout our nation, they can’t help but
I
f you don’t teach your kids about money, some-
mind.38 This is the first and great commandment.
39 And the second is like unto it: Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. Wouldn’t life be pleasant if this were a reality today? The world wouldn’t be in the mess it is suffering. Look at 2Timothy 3:1-4 and see why we must deal with today’s goings on.
Train Up a Child: Instilling patriotism in children
think about what it means to be living in America. Adults need to take advantage of this “teachable moment” to encourage the feeling of pride for the country and help the children understand, as much as possible, the cost paid for our freedom by our forefathers.
One way to give a better understanding of our forefathers is to check the internet for information regarding some of those individuals. Children will be interested to learn about some of the inventions of Ben Franklin. He invented bifocals, the lightning rod, a grasping tool and even a musical instrument using glasses filled
with different amounts of water. He designed a ship with compartments so that if one compartment sprung a leak, the leak could not sink the ship.
Only two of Thomas Jefferson’s six children survived into adulthood. He had specific instructions as to what he wanted on his tombstone. He wrote a political pamphlet in which he stated, “The God who gave us life gave us liberty at the same time: the hand of force may destroy but cannot disjoin them.” He designed his home, Monticello, in detail and had it built on property inherited from his family.
At the age of 16, George
Washington helped survey Shenandoah lands. He was very interested in western expansion of our country. It will fascinate children to learn that he invented wooden false teeth. It has been said that we always see pictures of him with his mouth closed because of his wooden false teeth. There are many, many interesting things to learn about our founding fathers and our country if we just take the time to explore with the children. A visit to the library will uncover many interesting books for the children to read during the summer months.
It is easy to develop an
appreciation of the history of our country. What is not so easy is to develop a feeling of appreciation for our country now. It is difficult as a teacher to help the children learn to respect the authority of our government when they hear so much criticism from parents, grandparents and others. When children hear parents say, “They are all a bunch of crooks!” they wonder why, then, are they supposed to obey laws made by those “crooks.” It was a real struggle in my GED classes to get students to understand that our government is “we,” not “they.” We need to be very careful to discuss policies of
How to teach your kids about money
body else will. And there’s a good chance that somebody else will have no idea what they’re talking about . . . or worse—they’ll steer your kids in the wrong direction. No, no, no.
Here’s how you can give your kids a head start and set them up to win with money at any age.
Elementary students and middle schoolers
All right, when your kids hit the elementary or tween
spect the Creator that put us on earth in the beginning to live in peace forever in paradise. Are you confused? I hope I’m not, because I truly believe the two commandments Jesus gave us fulfills the purpose of those 10 commandments given to Moses, and we must do our best to apply them in our life wherever we are for the sake of humankind. I hope this was worth your time.
years, that’s when you can get really hands-on with teaching them about money. By this age, kids have a better understanding of how money works and what it’s used for: spending, saving and giving.
1. Show them how opportunity cost works. Opportunity cost is another way of saying, “If you buy this video game, you won’t have the money to buy that pair of shoes.” At
Mr. Burlison is not representing Missourians in Congress...
this age, your kids should be able to weigh decisions and understand the possible outcomes. Help them understand just how far their dollars will stretch by comparing the cost of one item they want to another.
2. Give commissions, not allowances.
I’m all for generosity, but don’t just give your kids money because you can. Pay them commissions based on chores they do
around the house, like taking out the trash, cleaning their room, or mowing the grass. I talk a lot about this in the book I wrote with my dad, “Smart Money Smart Kids.” This concept helps your kids understand that money is earned—it’s not just handed out willy-nilly.
3. Avoid impulse buys.
“Mom, look at this cute dress! It’s perfect, and I love it! Can we buy it, please? Pretty please?” Sound fa-
our government without “badmouthing” the people making those policies. It is very difficult in times of frustration to separate what our politicians do from who they are. We are commanded in the Bible to pray for our leaders, and we should do just that. Instead of venting our anger to those around us, we need to be finding ways to make the changes that we believe are needed in a respectful way. Our country has had many problems since its beginning. We need to help our children join us in praying for our country and deciding how we can be the best citizens possible.
miliar? This age group really knows how to capitalize on the impulse buy—especially when it’s on someone else’s dime. Instead of caving in, tell your child they can use their hard-earned commission to pay for it. I also recommend having your kid wait at least a day before they buy anything that costs more than $15. It will likely still be there tomorrow, and they’ll
Biden, Mr. Burlison. Blame yourself for refusing to actually legislate.
The way things appear today it seems there are those who don’t like themselves or anybody else, much less re-
Respectfully submitted, Ralph Schumann Branson ***
Once again, referring to the June 14 issue of the Branson Globe, Eric Burlison’s “Burlison’s Brief” is filled with little truth and a great deal of misleading statements. Trump era border policies weren’t working which is the reason a bipartisan group of D.C. legislators hammered out new legislation that would have solved many of the border issues. Note: I said bipartisan which means both Democrats and Repub-
licans came to agreement on new policies. Mr. Burlison voted NO as did nearly all Republicans in the U.S. House. The reason they voted no? It wasn’t due to poor policy; it was due to the former president putting the stop to the legislation because he wanted to hammer immigration in the November 2024 election. Burlison bought into denying good policy to shore up a man who did nothing about immigration during his four-year term and won’t do anything if he’s reelected. So, don’t blame President
Then we have the “Biden Crime Family” thing going on. President Biden hasn’t broken any laws, unlike his predecessor who has been tried and convicted for breaking many laws. I’m thinking Mr. Burlison is confusing the former president with the current president when it comes to any discussion on breaking laws. Like the Jim Jordans and Paul Gosars in the U.S. House.
Respectfully, Sandy Lehman Reeds Spring • LETTERS
Mr. Burlison is not repre-
senting Missourians in Congress; instead, he chooses to waste time at his job to push lies and misconceptions. The 7th District deserves better than this. Legislation is give and take, and it would do a service to his constituents if Mr. Burlison learned how to work across the aisle and actually pass legislation that matters, that makes a positive difference in the lives of those who reside in the 7th District. What a concept!
BY RACHEL CRUZE, Ramsey Solutions, is a national best-selling author, financial expert and host of The Rachel Cruze Show
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 both work outside the
DR. RICHARD BAKER, AIF®, is the founder of and an executive wealth advisor at Fervent Wealth Management. https://www. facebook.com/Dr.RichardBaker
Dad, what if we made a washing machine that automatically dried the clothes, too?” My teenage son is very creative and always dreams of new business ideas. I always ask him, “Will it be profitable enough to justify the expense?” Spending on artificial intelligence (AI) and hoping it will drive up profits was a constant theme through this last earnings re-
BY HEATHER TANKERSLEY,
REALTOR®, provides services for residential, commercial, land and lake properties in the Branson Tri-Lakes
area.
Dave Says...He needs to be reminded
home, and he has come up with an idea for our fun money. He wants us to set up an account where we both put 5% of our earnings for discretionary spending. The issue in my mind is that he would have a lot more to spend, because he makes much more money than I do. He says he feels he should be able to spend more since he makes more. I’m not a greedy person, and I don’t spend money on a lot of frivolous things, but I do
think things would be even. I feel we should each put in the same dollar amount— one that’s fair to both of us—if we’re going to do this. What do you think?
Val Dear Val,
This isn’t a good plan. I’m sure your husband means well, and that he’s really a good guy overall, but it sounds to me like he probably hasn’t thought this whole thing through. As they stand now, the details of his idea
play out as pretty immature and selfish. And something tells me you wouldn’t marry a man like that. Think about it this way. There are plenty of families out there where only one person works outside the home and generates an actual income. Would it be fair to say that whoever brings home the paycheck is the only one who can have fun spending once in a while? Of course, not! In most cases, spouses
who don’t work outside the home take on tons of responsibility and accomplish several things every single day—especially if the couple has kids. If you put a monetary amount on all that, it’d wind up being a pretty nice income dollars-wise. Remember back when you two got married? If it were anything close to a traditional ceremony, I’ll bet the preacher pronounced you two “as one.” As in ev-
ery thing and every way. That means you have one income, a combined income, and it’s our income. If you own a home, it’s our home. It’s not more his home just because he makes more money than you. Our kids, our marriage our everything. Get the picture? Marriage is not a me proposition. It should always be a we thing. Your husband needs to be reminded of that.
—Dave
Stock Market Insights: Profiting from AI - The costly gamble
porting season. My question to them is the same as my son’s: “But will it make any money?”
How are these companies planning to make money from AI?
Almost all tech companies are betting on consumers adding new monthly subscriptions for AI services for $20 to $30 monthly. For example, if you want Copilot AI for your Microsoft Office 365 subscription, it will cost $30 per month per employee. That is 50% more expensive than their premium subscription. Microsoft and every other tech company are hoping every big company will pay for all of its employees to have it for increased productivity. If they did, it would be a huge new revenue stream for tech companies. Microsoft said in their most recent
earnings call that they currently have 1.8 million AI Copilot subscribers.
Tech companies are also hoping regular people will fall so in love with AI that they will pay $20 to $30 monthly for use at home. I wonder how many people whose home budgets are already stretched by inflation will love AI enough to add a monthly bill. These companies have to figure out a way to become profitable because the new data centers and expensive microchips aren’t going to pay for themselves. Investors have had mixed reactions to these big AI spending plan announcements. Apple’s value increased by $300 billion after its June 10 announcement of “Apple Intelligence.” Google and Microsoft also saw a big
increase in value after announcing their AI plans. On the other hand, Meta Platforms (Facebook/Instagram) saw its stock have one of its worst days ever on April 24. It lost $133 billion in value after the company said it would continue to spend billions of dollars on AI but thought it would take years before its AI made a profit. Investors want to know the path to profitability in this AI arms race. Microsoft said 7% of its quarterly revenue growth was from the use of ChatGPT. Microsoft is making money with AI, but I don’t think adding AI to Facebook will make more people want to use it. Most people I talk to are annoyed with Facebook’s AI search tool and are trying to turn off the AI feature. Tech companies are in the middle of an infrastructure
build-out, which we haven’t seen since the dot-com days. Investors remember the overbuild of fiberoptic infrastructure spending, where several companies laid fiber cables that eventually weren’t needed, leading to their bankruptcy. Companies can’t get too far ahead of the consumer. Microsoft CFO Amy Hood seems to have a good mindset on AI spending. She told the Wall Street Journal that their AI spending would depend on consumers’ demand to pay for their AI services.
A few companies are finding ways to profit from AI, but I don’t know when the expense will be worth it for small and medium-sized businesses. AI can make employees more productive, but I don’t think they are that much more productive to justify the monthly
How an agent helps market your home
do you need most from your real estate agent?
Well, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) asked that very question to recent sellers and found one of the top things they were looking for is help marketing their house to potential buyers. Maybe that’s what you need the most help with too.
You expect your real estate agent to write a great description of your house for the listing and pair it with some high-quality
photos. But that’s not all you’re going to get when you partner with a great agent. They’ll do a lot more to make sure your house stands out. Here are some of the most common methods real estate agents use to market homes according to that same report from NAR: Listing on the MLS By listing your house on the MLS, it will get more visibility from other real estate agents and buyers. This could lead to more traffic, which could ulti-
mately help you see an increase in offers and ultimately a better price.
Using a Yard Sign
A yard sign catches the eye of people driving or walking by. This method drums up local interest since people who live nearby might have friends or family looking to move into the area. It also prominently displays your agent’s contact information, so interested buyers can get in touch easily.
expense. It will be worth it in time, probably a long time, just like the internet and mobile phones, which took decades.
My son thinks we should build a Top Golf-type facility for baseball and softball players. Here, you hit off a batting cage, and you can watch to see if your ball goes over a real outfield fence. I again asked him, “Will it make enough money to justify the expense?” He said, I don’t know, Dad, because it would take a huge area to have baseball and softball fields in the middle of town. My advice is the same for companies wanting to jump in the AI race as it was for my son, “keep thinking, but don’t spend any money until you know it will make a profit.”
Have a blessed week! www.FerventWM.com
what people like or don’t like, which can help you make improvements to attract more buyers later, if needed.
Showcasing on Your Agent’s Website –
Having your house visible on your agent’s website allows for a professional presentation of your property. Additionally, people visiting your agent’s website are more likely to be serious buyers who are ready to make a move.
Social Networking
Having an Open House – When your agent advertises and hosts your open house, buyers see others are interested in your house, too. This competition can lead to stronger offers. An open house is also easier for you since you only need to leave once for many buyers to visit. Plus, your agent may get useful feedback on
Your real estate agent works hard to have a wide-ranging social media presence. Marketing your house this way allows them to reach a large audience. It also makes it easy for people to share your listing with friends and loved ones who might be interested.
Providing Virtual Tours – Virtual tours are
extremely convenient for buyers, especially those who are relocating from out of town. This method allows them to tour anytime, day or night. It shows your agent is using the latest technology to market your house. There are many tools that can be used to market your house. As NerdWallet sums up: “A good real estate agent will have a robust plan to promote your listing in an effort to find the right pool of buyers. Adding your home to databases of available homes called multiple listing services (MLS), open houses, 3D virtual tours, professional photography and broker tours for buyers’ agents (particularly for luxury homes) are all factors that may go into a marketing plan.”
As a seller, it’s smart to work with a creative local real estate agent who can maximize them to make sure you get as many eyes on your house as possible. Bottom Line When it comes to marketing your house, working with a local real estate agent has tons of benefits. If you’re ready to sell, but don’t know where to start, let’s chat.
It’s Your Move! Getting you where you need, is my promise to you.
Tankers-
Y
ou’re ready to sell your house. But what
BY JODY JOHNSON GODFREY Wellness Design Specialist
Balm of Gilead is a native of the Canary Islands. It has a pink, attractive bloom and makes for an unusual addition to any garden. The flowers and leaves are infused to help with colds and sore throats. This plant needs to be in a 9 x 9 cm. pot and be planted down 8 cm. The leaves smell quite similar to eucalyptus and balsam. Bees love this plant and it is self-seeding. This plant will grow anywhere
Herbs from A to Z: Balm of Gilead (cedronella canariensis) and African Blue Basil (ocimum basilicum)
from 60-100 cm. It is considered “half hardy.” It needs full or mostly full sun and the soil needs to be a little more alkaline, than not and the flower color is pink. The flowering period would be from June to August. Basil - African Blue (ocimum basilicum): This plant is considered a tender perennial, with large purple aromatic leaves. It has the same culinary uses as a common basil with the advantage it can be overwintered with enough warmth. This, too, needs a 9 x 9 cm. pot and needs to be planted 8 cm. deep. When used as an herb, it should be used fresh. There are many varieties of basil and this showy, purple-leaved type grows well in pots and is slightly more robust than oth-
ers. Again, this African Basil’s heights will grow from 60-100 cm.; it is a tender plant that needs mostly sun with a slightly alkaline soil. The flower color is white/ blue and the flowering occurs from June to October. This beautiful, aromatic basil, sadly, although a perennial, is still as tender as all other varieties and must be kept above 12 degrees centigrade in order to survive. So, the best months outside are between mid-May and the end of August when the night temperatures are higher. It grows quite well in a heated conservatory, or if not too large, on a sunny window sill. When young and small, basil should be watered carefully and drained properly, no sitting in saucers of water. Once
established and growing fast in the summer, they will guzzle water and like all herbs in pots will need a weekly feed to keep them steadfast. Punch out the tips to eat rather than pull the leaves off the stems. That way the basil will remain “bushy.”
The leaves of African Blue Basil are a little fleshier than more traditional basils, but the flavor is just as good and can be used in the same way for pestos, pasta sauces, tomato dishes, soups and salads, and fruit dishes, especially with strawberries. This particular basil produces masses of blue/purple flowers on long stems which bees can’t resist. Basil oil is used as a commercial flavoring and in the perfume industry.
Staying healthy and safe in the summer’s first heat wave
Submitted to Branson Globe
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) urges Missourians to take precautions as heat and humidity rise to dangerous levels. In 2023, 34 Missouri residents, ranging in age from 11 months to 96 years, died due to heat-related illness.
“Heat and humidity can place a lot of stress on the body,” said DHSS Director Paula F. Nickelson. “Heat exhaustion can come on suddenly, with little warning, and lead to heat stroke which becomes a very dangerous situation.”
This early wave of extended extreme heat may not have given Missourians the time to adjust to higher temperatures. This is especially true for some groups like pregnant women, very young children or older adults.
During excessive heat, Nickelson urges Missourians to check on friends and neighbors, especially those who are elderly and chronically ill. To report a senior citizen or an adult with disabilities who is
in need of assistance due to the heat, call the state’s tollfree abuse and neglect hotline at 1-800-392-0210, or make a report online.
People who are working or exercising outside in the heat or have certain chronic health conditions such as heart disease, lung disease or diabetes may need to take extra care in the heat. Medications, as well as those with substance use disorder, can impair a body’s response to heat, making one more vulnerable to the heat. Additionally, those experiencing homelessness are at a greater risk of experiencing heat-related illness. Never leave a child or pet alone in a vehicle. Even on a cooler day, the temperature inside a vehicle can rise by 20 degrees in 10 minutes and is life threatening to anyone left inside. Heat-related illness can affect anyone. Take steps to stay cool in the hottest hours of the day:
• Prepare your home—Use air conditioning and change air conditioner filters; cover
windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes or shades. Stay indoors—Stay in air-conditioned places as much as possible. At home, take a cool bath or shower, use stoves and ovens less often, and keep window blinds and curtains closed to help maintain cooler temperatures. During prolonged periods of high temperatures, use air conditioning – either at home or by seeking shelter in a local cooling center. Don’t rely on fans to keep you cool. Fans are generally okay for providing comfort in temperatures less than 90° F. But at temperatures over 90° F, a fan can make body temperature rise.
• Schedule activities carefully—Plan outdoor activities for morning or evening hours when the
temperatures are cooler.
• Wear appropriate clothing—Do not over-dress. Good choices are lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• Pace yourself—Reduce exercise or physical activity as much as possible during the hottest part of the day and take frequent breaks in the shade or in an air conditioned place. Take steps to stay hydrated:
• Drink plenty of fluids— Take a drink break every 20-30 minutes regardless of your activity level, and do not wait until you are thirsty. Water or hydrating sports drinks are best. Avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, which actually cause you to lose body fluids.
• Wear sunscreen—Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down and can cause you to become
dehydrated. Take steps to stay informed:
Check on friends and neighbors—Especially older adults and individuals with a disability or chronic health conditions, as heat is more likely to affect their health. If you find an emergency situation, call 911. In a non-emergency situation, if a senior or disabled adult is suspected of being in need of assistance due to warm weather, make a call. Make a difference. Call the toll-free Missouri Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-392-0210.
Know the signs and
symptoms of heat-related illness—What to do matters, depending on type of illness occurring. Signs of heat exhaustion may include heavy sweating; cold, pale and clammy skin; dizziness; headache; muscle cramps; tiredness or weakness; nausea or vomiting; or fainting (passing out). If you think you or others are experiencing heat exhaustion, you should stop physical activity and move to a cool place that is preferably air conditioned, loosen clothing, and sip cool water. Seek medical attention immediately if you or others are throwing up, your
TOP: Balm of Gilead; BOTTOM: African Blue Basil (Photos submitted)
(Photo courtesy Branson Public Schools)
Submitted to Branson Globe Branson High School Air Force Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (AFJROTC) has earned the Distinguished Unit
BHS AFJROTC receives Distinguished Unit Award for 2023-2024 school year
Award for the 2023-2024 school year.
The Distinguished Unit Award recognizes the personal growth and accomplishments of the cadets, contributions of the instructors as mentors, and the support of the school and local community.
The announcement was made by Johnny R. McGonigal, Colonel, USAF,
Director of HQ Air Force JROTC. “Certainly, numerous AFJROTC units are doing great things in their respective communities, but these units truly represent the best of our 831 AF/SF JROTC units worldwide,” stated Colonel McGonigal in an earlier release.
Branson High School AFJROTC instructor, Major Gary Maki, USAF
(retired) shares how this recognition honors the program and the cadets. “Their commitment to excellence not only reflects their personal growth but also strengthens our unit’s legacy of honor and achievement. I am incredibly proud of their accomplishments and look forward to maintaining momentum for the BHS AFJROTC program.”
Branson Board of Education earns Governance Team Award
Submitted to Branson Globe
The Branson R-IV Board of Education is among a select number of Missouri school boards that has earned the Missouri School Boards’ Association’s 2024 Governance Team Award.
This prestigious award is based on the outstanding commitment of the school board and superintendent to ongoing professional development in effective governance practices. The award also recognizes their
commitment to regional and statewide leadership and to active participation in legislative advocacy for public schools and the students they serve.
The school board met the following criteria:
• The district is fully accredited.
• All seven school board members completed the Essential new board member certification from MSBA.
• All seven board members fulfilled the Re-
fresher Training requirement for the current year through MSBA.
• At least two board members attained the Advanced level of certification from MSBA.
At least one board member attained the Master level of certification.
• At least a quorum of the board and the superintendent attended the 2023 MSBA Annual Conference and a regional meeting during the past year.
A representative attended at least one MSBA Legislative event during the past year.
• A board member representative participated in MSBA’s Delegate Assembly.
The school boards and superintendents receiving the award were recognized during MSBA’s 2024 Summer Summit. The Missouri School Boards’ Association is a not-for-profit association that exists to help school boards ensure all students succeed.
Missouri State Highway Patrol releases 2024 school bus inspection scores
Ky3.com
The Missouri Highway Patrol released the 2024 school bus inspection program results.
Hollister R-V School District once again received 100%.
Missouri’s 2024 school bus inspection results are as follows:
School buses rated as “approved” upon initial
• HEAT WAVE
Continued from page 5B
inspection: 10,055
• School buses rated as “defective” upon initial inspection: 895
• School buses rated as “out-of-service” upon initial inspection: 410
Buses with identified defective components require repair within ten days. Buses placed out of service require correction of the component(s), reinspec-
symptoms get worse or symptoms last longer than one hour. Heat stroke is life-threatening and occurs when the body is unable to control its temperature or cool down. Signs of heat stroke may include extremely high body temperature (103°F or higher); hot, red, dry skin with no sweat; fast,
tion and a return to service by Patrol personnel before further use in transporting passengers.
Two hundred sixty-two Missouri school districts earned the Patrol’s Total Fleet Excellence award for 2024. During the 20242025 school year, 4,931 buses in these award-winning fleets are eligible to display the Patrol’s Total
strong pulse; throbbing headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion; or loss of consciousness (passing out). You should call 911 right away, as heat stroke is a medical emergen-
Fleet Excellence sticker in the lower corner of the first window on the passenger entry side of the bus.
”Through the unified effort of Missouri State Highway Patrol personnel and pupil transportation professionals statewide, the successful inspection of 11,360 school buses occurred in accordance with Missouri revised state
cy. Then, if you are able, move to a cool place that is preferably air conditioned. Help lower the person’s body temperature with cool cloths or a cool bath until medical person-
statutes,” said Colonel Olson. “The Patrol, Missouri schools, and private pupil transportation companies share the common goal of keeping our schoolchildren safe while they travel on school buses.” Missouri school bus inspection results are public record. Individual school district results for 2024 are available at https://
nel arrive. Do not give the person anything to drink.
Pay attention to weather forecasts and heat advisories- CDC’s HeatRisk map is one tool that provides local heat risk in-
apps.mshp.dps.mo.gov/ MSHPWeb/PatrolDivisions/DVSD/MVI/documents/2024AnnualSchoolBusInspectionResults.pdf. School bus inspection criteria, including Missouri State Highway Patrol outof-service criteria, are available at https://apps.mshp. dps.mo.gov/MSHPWeb/PatrolDivisions/DVSD/MVI/ FormsBrochures.html
formation to keep you and others safe.
For more information regarding heat-related illness and prevention, visit the websites of DHSS or the CDC.
Superintendent Dr. Brad Swofford, and board members Lane McConnell, Sonja Myer, Carolyn Boss, Roger Frieze, Dustin Price, and Alex Williams (Photo courtesy Branson Public Schools)
Branson offers an abundance of attractions, with College of the Ozarks® serving as a distinguished gem. Commonly referred to as Hard Work U®, College of the Ozarks is one of only ten working colleges in the United States, where students work for their tuition, allowing them to graduate without debt.
COLLEGE CREAMERY
We invite you to explore our beautiful campus and enjoy the exceptional offerings created by our hardworking students. Delight in world-class dining at The Keeter Center, discover unique student-made products at Edwards Mill & General Store, and witness masterful craftsmanship at The Stained Glass & Candle Shop. Be sure to also treat yourself to premium ice cream at our College Creamery, made with milk from our award-winning dairy.
STAINED GLASS & CANDLE SHOP
BY ERIC BURLISON, Member of Congress representing
the 7th District of Missouri
My new resolution to undo harm caused by illegitimate January 6 Select Committee
This week, I introduced H. Res. 1305 with 24 of my colleagues to rescind the subpoenas issued by the illegitimate January 6th Select Committee for Steve Bannon, Mark Meadows, Dan Scavino, Jr., and Peter Na-
Burlison Brief
varro and withdraw the recommendations finding them in contempt of Congress.
The Select Committee was used as a political weapon with a singular focus on taking down Trump and his advisors through the intentional manipulation of facts and the silencing of the minority party.
The Select Committee was illegitimate having repeatedly violated the very resolution that established it, precedent, and House Rules. The subpoenas issued were legally insufficient and should be rescinded, and the contempt of Congress referrals based on those subpoenas should be withdrawn.
U.S. Service Academy Day
Last weekend, my office hosted its first U.S. Service
Academy Day. The event was a huge success.
Thank you to all the service academy representatives for coming and to all the promising young men and women in our district who came to learn about the nomination process and are interested in serving our nation.
For more information on the congressional nomination process for our country’s service academies, check this link: https://burlison.house.gov/services/ service-academy-nominations. The deadline to apply is October 11, 2024.
Manufacturing tour
On Tuesday, my office hosted its first annual manufacturing tour. We toured multiple facilities including Positronic, EnerSys, and
MO Governor Parson comes to Branson
Former Branson Mayor Karen Best welcomed Governor Michael Parson to the Branson Chamber of Commerce building recently as he promoted his book: “No Turnin’ Back.”
The governor related stories and events that took place during his six years of service as the governor of Missouri. Money collected from the sale of his books will be used by a non-for-profit organization headed by his wife Theresa.
Best, left, watches as Parson signs his new book, “No Turnin’ Back”, during a recent trip to Branson. (Photo by George Kurland)
Ozarks Technical Community College’s Manufacturing Center.
Throughout the tour, we witnessed the cutting-edge technologies and processes that make American manufacturing competitive globally. Thank you to everyone who came out to support and learn more about our local manufacturing facilities.
ICYMI: Media from the week
I joined the Charlie Kirk Show and Lou Dobbs Tonight to discuss my new resolution. Meeting with Missourians
Last week, I had the opportunity to visit Hammons Black Walnuts in Stockton, MO.
I also had a great meeting with local members of the National Association of Benefits & Insurance Profession-
be able to make that decision with a level head. (And it’s possible they’ll forget about it entirely . . . in which case, that’s $15 saved.)
4. Stress the importance of giving.
Once your kids start making a little money, be sure you teach them about giving and being generous. They can pick a church, charity or even someone they know who needs a little help. Eventually, they’ll see how giving doesn’t just help the other person—it feels good to you too.
How to teach teenagers about money
No need to fear the teen years, parents. At this point, your kids should have a strong understanding of the money basics. Now it’s time to teach them more responsibility and how to use their money with the future in mind.
5. Teach them contentment.
Your teen probably
als (NABIP), BulkLoads, and Alpine Aviation Group. It’s always great to be back in the Show Me State! Need help with a federal agency?
If you are having a problem getting a timely answer from a federal agency or feel like you’ve been treated unfairly, my office may be able to help.
My office helps constituents with issues involving the VA, the IRS, Social Security, the State Department, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, and other federal agencies.
To learn more and submit a request for help with a federal agency, https://burlison.house.gov/services/ help-federal-agency Tours and tickets
As constituents of Mis-
spends a lot of their time staring at a screen, scrolling through social media. Every time they’re online, they see the highlight reels of their friends, family and total strangers. It’s the quickest way to bring on the comparison trap. You might hear them say things like:
“Dad, Mark’s parents bought him a brand new car. How come I have to drive this 2007 Honda?”
“Mom, this girl at school got to spend $10,000 on her Sweet 16 party. I want to do that, too.”
“Brittney’s going to the beach for spring break. Why can’t we?”
Contentment starts in the heart. Let your teen know their older Subaru is still running well enough to get them from point A to point
B. And you can still throw a memorable milestone birthday party or go on a weekend getaway without using a chunk of your retirement savings to fund it.
souri’s 7th Congressional District, you may request tickets and tours for the White House and U.S. Capitol. Tickets are provided on a first-come, first-serve basis so get your tickets in early! To request tours and tickets, https://burlison.house.gov/services/tours-and-tickets Internships
Are you or someone you know interested in a career in public service? We have opportunities in my Joplin, Springfield and Washington offices. To learn more about our internship program, https://burlison.house.gov/ services/internships. Apply today! And that’s it for the Burlison Brief! Best, Rep. Eric Burlison Member of Congress
6. Give them the responsibility of a bank account.
By the time they’re a teenager, you should be able to set your kids up with a simple bank account. This takes money management to the next level and (hopefully) prepares them for managing a much bigger account when they get older.
7. Get them saving for college. There’s no time like the present to have your teen start saving for college. Do they plan on working a summer job? Perfect. Take a portion of their paycheck to toss in a college savings account. Your teen will feel like they have skin in the game as they contribute toward their education.
8. Teach them to steer clear of student loans. Before your teen ever applies to college, you need to sit down and have the talk—the “how are we going to pay for college?” talk. Let your teen know student loans aren’t an option to fund their education. Talk through all the alternatives out there, like going to community college, going to an in-state university, working part-time while in school, and applying for scholarships now.
9. Teach them the danger of credit cards. As soon as your kid turns 18, they’ll get hounded by credit card offers—especially once they’re in college. Seriously, look out. If you haven’t taught them why debt is a bad idea, they’ll become yet another credit card victim.
10. Get them on a simple budget.
Since your teen is glued to their phone anyway, get them started with our simple budgeting app, EveryDollar. Now is the time to get your teen in the habit of budgeting their income—no matter how much they make. They should understand why it’s so important to make a plan for their money while they’re still under your roof.
11. Help them figure out how to make money. When you think about it, teenagers have plenty of free time—fall break, summer break, winter break, spring break. If they want to make some money (and what teen doesn’t?), help them find a job. Better yet, help them become an entrepreneur. These days, it’s easier than ever for your teen to start up their own business and turn a profit.
• MONEY
Register to vote
The easiest way to register to vote in the state of Missouri is to use the following link: https://www. sos.mo.gov/elections/goVoteMissouri/register. You can update your name and address, or register to vote for the first time. In many locations, you may also register to vote when you renew your driver’s license. Get a driver’s license
• In Branson and Hollister, go to Branson License Bureau, 1447 Hwy. 248, Branson; phone 417942-8054.
• In Forsyth, go to 210 Shadowrock Dr., Forsyth; phone 417-5463085.
• In Reeds Spring anD Branson West, go to 11016 Hwy. 76, Reeds Spring; phone 417-2728815.
• In Crane, 103 South Street, Crane, 417-7238552. The driver examination office is at 120 N. Commerce St., Crane; phone 417-942-8029. Register my vehicle
Complete information on Missouri residents’ vehicle registration titling is available at https://dor.mo.gov/ motor-vehicle/titling-registration/ Reach my legislators
Find your legislators by entering a valid Missouri mailing address and using the legislator lookup on this site, https://www.senate. mo.gov/legislookup/ In the Branson TriLakes, we are served by: Senator Josh Hawley (Hawley.senate.gov)
• Senator Eric Schmitt (Schmitt.senate.gov)
• House Representative for District 7, Eric Burlison (burlison.house.gov).
At the state level, we are represented by:
• Senator Karla Eslinger
(senate.mo.gov/senators/ member/33), House Representative Brian Seitz, District 156 (brian.seitz@house. mo.gov)
• House Representative Travis Smith, District 155 (travis.smith@ house.mo.gov)
• House Representativve Brad Hudson, District 138 (brad.hudson@ house.mo.gov)
Reach my alderman Branson Aldermen may be contacted through the City’s Administration Office, 110 West Maddux Street, Suite 210, Branson, MO 65616 or by telephone at 417-334-3345. Current Branson Aldermen are:
• Marshall Howden, Ward 1 Clay Cooper, Ward 1
• Glenn Schulz, Ward 2 Ralph LeBlanc, Ward 3
• Ruth Denham, Ward 3. In Hollister, aldermen are:
• David Honey, Ward 1 (dhoney@hollistermo. gov) Don Jones, Ward 1 (djones@hollistermo. gov)
• Phil Carman, Ward 2 (pcarman@hollistermo. gov)
• Jeff Long, Ward 2 (jlong@hollistermo.gov) In Forsyth, your aldermen are:
• Scott Novak, Ward 1
• Mark Moore, Ward 1 Dennis Winzenried, Ward 2 Dustin Krob, Ward 2. Contact the City of Forsyth at 417-546-4763. Aldermen in Rockaway Beach are: Jane Peck, Ward 1 (jane@ rockawaybeach-mo.org) Kyle Hinkle, Ward 1 (kyle@rockawaybeach-mo.org) Russell Anderson, Ward 2 (russell@rockawaybeach-mo.org)
Richard Murray, Ward 2 (hwymbc@yahoo.com).
In Branson West, your aldermen are:
• Tony Martinez, Ward 1 Dawn Kemp-Wallace, Ward 1 Penny Lonsway, Ward 2
• Mark Boody, Ward 2. Contact the city at 417272-3313.
Kimberling City Aldermen include:
• Christian Martin, Ward 1 Virgil Moore, Ward 1
• Tim Weyers, Ward 2 Philip Korem, Ward 2. Contact the city at (417) 739-4903. Register my child for school
Branson Public Schools: Begin registration by bringing required documentation to building your student will be attending. For grades K-6, check the Attendance Zone for information about attending school building, using this link: https://www. branson.k12.mo.us/parents/enrollment, clicking on New Student Enrollment Page, and to Attendance Zones. Please contact your school with questions or additional information at 417-3346541. Main office is at 1756 Bee Creek Road, Branson.
• Hollister R-V School District: Families new to Hollister should visit their building office to set up their parent portal and begin the enrollment process. For help with enrollment, contact your building office. HECC office (PK-1): 417-2434015; HES office (2-5): 417-243-4025; HMS office (6-8): 417-243-4035; HHS office (9-12): 417243-4045.
• Reeds Spring School District: Register at
the building your child will attend or fill out the online registration by contacting your child’s school office for more information. Primary School: PS-1st grade, 417-272-3241; Elementary: Gr. 2-4, 417-2721735; Intermediate: Gr. 5-6, 417-272-8250; MS: Gr. 7-8, 417-272-8245; HS: Gr. 9-12, 417-2728171; Gibson Technical Center: 417-272-3271. Recycle Taney County Recycle: Phone 417-546-7226 for hours and what we accept. Email recycle@taneycountymo.gov for information; website: taneycounty.org, or Facebook: https://www. facebook.com/TaneyCountyRecycle/ Get help with necessities Salvation Army Branson, 1114 Stanley Boulevard, 417-339-4434.
• Christian Action Ministries (CAM), 417-3341157.
• Elevate Branson, 310 Gretna Rd; website, https://elevatebranson. org; email: Info@ElevateBranson.org. Phone: 417-335-9915. Find/adopt a pet
• Branson Humane Society, 2837 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway, Branson. To contact: 417-337-7387; Facebook www.facebook.com/ ShepherdofTheHillsHumaneSociety; or email at sohhs417@gmail.com. Information is on their website, http://www.bransonhumanesociety.com
• Come look at the animals for adoption at Taney County Animal Control, 255 Critter Trail, Hollister. Hours: Mon.-Sat. noon – 4 p.m. Closed Sundays and holidays. Phone 417-3320172. Email: tcac255@
• CoxHealth Center, 890 State Hwy. 248, Branson, 417-335-2299. More information at coxhealth.com
• Mercy Clinic Family Medicine, 448 State Hwy. 248, Suite 140, Branson, 417-337-9808. More information at www.mercy.net.
• Faith Community Health, 1232 Branson Hills Pkwy, Suite 104, Branson, 417-336-9355; more information at https://faithcommunityhealth.org/
• Branson VA Clinic, 5571 Gretna Rd., Branson, 417-243-2300. More information at www. va.gov. Contact the health department
• Contact the Taney County Health Department at 417-334-4544, visit their website at www.taneycohealth.org, or like their Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest pages. Contact the Stone County Health Department at 417-357-6134 in Galena, or 417-272-0050 in Branson West. Visit their website at www.stonecountyhealthdepartment.com
Assistance with unplanned pregnancies Options Pregnancy Clinic, 192 Expressway Lane, Branson, 417-3365483. More information at www.optionspregnancyclinic.com.
Pregnancy Lifeline, 19621 State Hwy. 413, Branson West, 417272-5211. More information at www.pregnancylifeline.com
Please note: The above providers DO NOT perform or refer for abortions. Get counseling
• Branson Counseling Center LLC , Northside Professional Plaza II, 574 State Hwy 248 # 2, Branson, 417-239-1389.
• Restoring Wellness Counseling , Nikki Pinkley, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor. For information, https://www.restoringwellnesscounseling.com/. Call or text 417-429-1889 to set up appointment or submit information on website. In urgent situations, please call the Emergency Hotline at 1-800-494-7355, available 24 hours a day. If it is an emergency, please go to your local hospital or dial 911.
• Reuben Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor, Faith Community Health, 417261-5845. Donate blood
Go to https://www.cbco. org/donate-blood/ or call 417-227-5000 to donate blood via Community Blood Center of the Ozarks. CBCO is the SOLE PROVIDER of blood products to more than 40 area healthcare facilities in three states.and that includes the Branson Tri-Lakes area. Go to https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/ find-drive, enter ZIP code, Find a Drive. Additional information at https:// www.redcrossblood.org/.
Worship Directory
You are encouraged to worship with us!
And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.– Hebrews 10:25
without notice.
JUNE
• 27 Taneycomo Festival Orchestra: Our Favorite Pieces concert, repertoire to be announced. Held 7:30 p.m. at Fellowship at Cross Creek Church, 505 Cedar Park Road, Branson. Admission is free at all Taneycomo Festival Orchestra events. The Taneycomo Festival Orchestra is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is supported by donations of money, food, time and hospitality. To learn more about supporting TFO, visit taneycomofestivalorchestra.org/ donateandvolunteer.
• 28 The Nest Concert Venue, 800 State Hwy. 248, Bldg. 3A, Branson, will feature 13 of our Jam Jam songwriters who each share one original song about summer. 7:30 p.m. Reserve tickets at nestconcerts.com
• 28 Taneycomo Festival Orchestra: Romeo & Juliet, featuring Vasily Kalinnikov: “Tsar Boris Overture”; Polina Nazaykinskaya: “The Tales of Sorrow”; Sergei Prokofiev: “Selections from Romeo and Juliet.” Held 7:30 p.m. at Hollister High School, 2112 State Hwy, BB, Hollister. Admission is free at all Taneycomo Festival Orchestra events. The Taneycomo Festival Orchestra is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is supported by donations of money, food, time and hospitality. To learn more about supporting TFO, visit taneycomofestivalorchestra.org/ donateandvolunteer.
• 28-30 Faith Lutheran Church, Weekend VBS “Outback Rock” where kids venture into solid faith and discover God’s powerful presence in everyday life. Filled with Bible-learning experiences kids see, hear and touch. Team-building games, cool Bible songs, multisensory Bible adventures. Send the kids in play clothes and sturdy shoes since activities are hands-on and kids might get messy. Parents, grandparents, friends invited for a Sunday celebration, June 30. Register early at www.faithbranson. com, https://faithbranson. churchcenter.com/registrations/events/2287984 or call 417-334-2469. Dates: June 28: 5:30-8:18 p.m.; June 29: 8:30-11:18 a.m.; June 30: 9-11:30 a.m. for preschool-sixth grade. Faith Lutheran Church, 221 Malone Dr., Branson.
• 29 & 30 Table Rock Art Guild will present their 43rd Festival of Arts from 10-5 at the Kimberling Area Library in Kimberling City. We will have 25 artists selling art in seven different mediums. Enjoy what our local artists have to offer in oil, acrylic, watercolor painting, stained glass, photography, handcrafted jewelry and more.
• 29 Music on the Lake, FREE concert, 7 p.m. Hosted by Veterans of the Ozarks and sponsored by local neighbors and your favorite businesses. Kimberling City Shopping Center, 11863 Rt. 13, Kimberling City. Rainouts will be made up if possible. Schedule subject to change without notice.
JULY
1 Quilts of Valor of the Ozarks Monthly Meeting and Sew Day, St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, 30 James River Rd., Kimberling City. QOVO holds their monthly meeting first Monday of each month. Doors open at 9 a.m. for sewing/creation of quilts to veterans in SW Missouri/NW Arkansas region. Bring your sewing machine and a QOVO project to work on or pick up kit
and learn from our educator how to create a quilt for a veteran presented at future date to a member of the Armed Forces. Anyone with an interest in honoring veterans is encouraged to stop in and talk to members about how they can be involved. Even if you don’t sew, there is an opportunity for you. Brown bag lunch followed by business meeting and show and tell at 1 p.m. Doors close at 3 p.m.
• 1 The Kimberling Area Library, 45 Kimberling Blvd., Kimberling City, Adventure Reading Hour, for children 7 years and younger, from 10:3011:30 a.m. in the library. All children and adults are welcome to attend for books, games, songs and crafts. Further information at www.kalib.org or by calling the library at 417739-2525.
• 2 Music on the Lake, FREE concert, 7 p.m. Hosted by Veterans of the Ozarks and sponsored by local neighbors and your favorite businesses. Kimberling City Shopping Center, 11863 Rt. 13, Kimberling City. Rainouts will be made up if possible. Schedule subject to change
• 7 Ozark Hills Winery: LIVE MUSIC with Jukebox Winos, 3-5 p.m. Enjoy their wall of wine and tasty treats while we play favorite covers and original music. Wine tastings, flights, or buy glass specials plus 20% off any retail item. Whiskey tastings, too. 601 State Hwy 165, Branson. For more information, www.jukeboxwinos.com
• 8 The Kimberling Area Library, 45 Kimberling Blvd., Kimberling City, Adventure Reading Hour, for children 7 years and younger, from 10:3011:30 a.m. in the library. All children and adults are welcome to attend for books, games, songs and crafts. Further information at www.kalib.org or by calling the library at 417739-2525.
• 9 Forsyth Area Chamber of Commerce: County Candidate Forum/ Monthly Luncheon, 11 a.m. Member lunch price, $15; non-member lunch price, $20. For the forum, please post questions at https://forms.gle/fdiuUrso7e9gtunJA. Lake Taneycomo Elks. Contact forsythareachamber@ gmail.com or 417-5462741 to reserve a spot. You can also reserve a spot at https://www.forsythmissouri.org/event-details/ facc-july-9-luncheon-candidate-forum
• 10 Learning on Wednesday: Looking for jewelry appraisal? Come meet the experts, 10:15-11:30 a.m. Kimberling Area Library community room. Join Jenny and John Caro of Table Rock Jewelry Appraisals, for informative session about evaluating quality and price of your jewelry. Determine value of your jewelry and identify insurance company requirements to insure possible loss of your jewelry. Coffee and light snacks provided. No pre-registration required. Attendance free for this informal event. www.kalib.org.
• 10 Christian Women’s Connection (Stonecroft): “Get Inspired” luncheon, 11:30 a.m. Come make new friends and enjoy a delicious lunch in a beautiful setting. Non-denominational. No membership or dues. $17, Call 417-3431418 by July 8 to reserve. Point Royale Clubhouse, 142 Clubhouse Dr., Branson.
• 11 Ozark Hills Winery: LIVE MUSIC with Jukebox Winos, 4-6 p.m. Enjoy their wall of wine and tasty treats while we play favorite covers and original music. Wine tastings, flights, or buy glass specials plus 20% off any retail item. Whiskey tastings, too. 601 State Hwy 165, Branson. For more information, www.jukeboxwinos.com
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
ABranson area business woman has added the title of author to her stellar resume.
Angie Harris is well known in Branson for her expertise in digital marketing and promoting Branson shows, attractions and businesses, as well as her love for everything Disney.
“I run a digital marketing company called ‘Going Out the Door’ and I write blogs about Disney and other topics that matter to me,” Harris explained. “I moved to Branson in 1992 to help launch The Vacation Channel and spent 17 years there, fostering a deep love for Branson and its community. I also own TwoFriendsTalking.com, which offers time management systems.”
Harris’ new book, “Finding Fred—Too Much Treasure” is an enchanting children’s book that tells the story of a young boy named Fred, known as “Finding Fred,” due to his ability to discover hidden gems. In her storytelling, Harris shares the lessons Fred learned about the value of possessions and the joy of decluttering. Readers will follow Fred as he experiences the challenges of having too much treasure.
“Finding Fred: Too Much Treasure” was published earlier this year, but the process began nearly two years ago.
“My birth father, who lived without running water for over 40 years and as a true hoarder, tragically passed away in an automobile accident,” Harris explained. “As his only child, I inherited his 10-acre property, and felt utterly overwhelmed. I found myself wishing he had experienced a different childhood, so I created that alternate reality in ‘Finding Fred.’ “ Harris continued, “It was
a challenge finding the right illustrator. My dear friend was talking to me about her talented daughter-in-law, so I reached out. Kaitlin Atwood was the perfect artist for this project. She is so talented and was able to mix the mediums. She uses pencil to create the scene, crayons to color in the specifics and vibrant digital colors on the background. We collaborate on each specific piece, and it has been an amazing relationship.”
The next project Harris and Atwood have teamed up on is entitled “Finding Fred Experiences an Ozark Mountain Christmas,” set to be released before the holiday season.
“In this story, our little collector visits my hometown of Branson, MO,” noted Harris. “In the first book, Fred learns to let go, but his tendencies to collect still run deep. As the holidays approach, all he can think about are the ‘things’ he wants for Christmas. His parents soon decide that an adventure is better than gifts. During their time in Branson, Fred visits the Duttons, Haygoods, Hughes Brothers, Clay Cooper, Dickens Gift Shoppe, Dick’s 5 and 10, and Beyond the Lens, and stays at the Stone Castle Hotel. His trip is full of lessons and adventure, where he learns insights that many spend a lifetime trying to discover.”
In addition to her already published book, and soonto-be-released holiday book, Harris has several more books in various stages of production, including a Disney Vacation Planner.
“Finding Fred: Too Much Treasure” would be the perfect gift for any young reader. This treasure can be purchased online at AngieRobertsHarris.com.
Roberts Harris with her first book, Finding Fred: Too Much Treasure! (Photo submitted)
Spark ultimate family fun this Fourth of July at Big Cedar Lodge
Submitted to Branson Globe
Get ready for an unforgettable Independence Day celebration at Big Cedar Lodge! Join us for a funfilled weekend packed with games, attractions, contests, crafts, entertainment, a flyover and the most spectacular fireworks show in the area. Whether you’re staying overnight or visiting for the day, we’ve got something for everyone. Bring your family, and we’ll supply the all-American fun!
Please see below for ac-
tivity and event details. Patriotic Picnic and fireworks:
Celebrate America’s birthday with our signature Patriotic Picnic on the Grandview Conference Center Lawn! Enjoy a roaring airshow, a live performance by The Rosy Hips, and exclusive attractions. Delicious food from our world-class culinary team will be available for purchase. Don’t forget to bring your blankets and lawn chairs for the grand finale
fireworks show. We can’t wait to see you there! Open to the public. July 4 from 5:30-9 p.m.
Grandview Conference Center Lawn
• Picnic | 5:30 p.m. - dusk
Air show / sky divers | 7 p.m.
Rosy Hips Band | 7:15 p.m.
• Fireworks | dusk
Top of the Rock fireworks:
Experience the breathtaking fireworks display at the highest elevation in Taney County at Johnny Morris’s Top of the Rock. Open to the public.
Fireworks only, no attractions
Event entry: $25 per car
• Date: July 4
Lady Liberty fireworks cruise
July 4 | Long Creek Marina | $200/adult, $100/kids (4-11)
Enjoy an evening on our signature dinner cruise with a twist! After a fantastic meal and relaxing tour of the lake, you’ll be treated to Big Ce-
dar Lodge legendary holiday fireworks show. This event is open to on-property guests and the public.
Kids’ fishing with Paw Patrol: Tuesday, July 2 | 5 - 6 p.m. | Kids’ fishing pond | $5 per child, ages 14 and under.
Join Sky and Marshall from Paw Patrol for a fun fishing adventure! Learn tips from tournament pro Charlie Evans and compete for the biggest catch of the day. Fishing poles, bait and other supplies are provided. Trophies will be awarded for the heaviest fish. Let the tall tales commence! This event is open to on-property guests and the public.
Private poolside cabana fireworks viewing July 4 | 7-9:30 p.m. | Swimmin’ hole cabanas | Price: $250 per cabana (up to 6 adults)
Watch our fireworks show from a private poolside cabana. Each group will receive a snack basket and an ice bucket filled with your
favorite beverages. Other food and beverage options are available for sale. Spots are limited, so reserve yours today!
Pro Angler Charlie Evans and Paw Patrol special appearance Wednesday, July 3 and Thursday, July 4 | 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. | Complimentary, no reservations required Fun Mountain
Meet the fearless fourlegged friends from Paw Patrol! Professional fisherman Charlie Evans teams up with Marshall and Skye to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. This complimentary meet and greet is open to overnight guests and the public.
Let Freedom Run 5K: Wednesday, July 3- 7:30 p.m.
Join us for the Let Freedom Run 5K on Independence Day Eve! Compete for prizes or take in the beautiful scenery. Medals and plaques will be awarded to the fastest runners in three age divisions. All participants
receive a run water bottle, holiday headband, and completion medal. After the 5K, enjoy an outdoor family movie night on the Swimmin’ Hole Lawn. Children must be accompanied by an adult. (Complimentary, no reservations required. Overnight guests only.)
Special family movie on lawn and bonfire: Wednesday, July 3 | 8:30 p.m.
Enjoy a family-friendly movie on the lawn, complete with bonfires, complimentary marshmallows, and fun family games. This activity is complimentary for overnight guests and does not require reservations. All children must be accompanied by an adult. (Overnight guests only.)
With so many exciting events and activities, Big Cedar Lodge is the perfect place to celebrate the Fourth of July! Gather your family and friends and join us for a memorable weekend filled with patriotic fun.
Paying tribute to guitar great Chet Atkins on his 100th birthday
Staff Reports
Local guitarists Mike McAdoo and Jerry Ozee were joined with close friends and professional guitarists Randy Buckner and John McClellan at Jerry Presley’s God & Country Theater on June 21 as they celebrated the life and times of Chet Atkins. Odds are that these men would not have been playing their guitars today without being inspired by their close relationships with Chet Atkins himself. Their stories were told and his songs sung. Truly, it was memories of “back in the day.”
Chester Burton Atkins (June 20, 1924 – June 30, 2001), also known as “Mr. Guitar” and “The Country Gentleman”, was an American musician
who, along with Owen Bradley and Bob Ferguson, helped create the Nashville sound, the country music style which expanded its appeal to adult pop music fans. He was primarily a guitarist, but he also played the mandolin, fiddle, banjo, and ukulele, and occasionally sang.
Atkins’s signature picking style was inspired by Merle Travis. Other major guitar influences were Django Reinhardt, George Barnes, Les Paul, and, later, Jerry Reed. His distinctive picking style and musicianship brought him admirers inside and outside the country scene, both in the United States and abroad. Atkins spent most of his career at RCA Victor and produced records for Hank Snow, Porter Wagoner, Norma Jean, Dol-
ly Parton, Dottie West, Perry Como, Floyd Cramer, Elvis Presley, and many others. Rolling Stone credited Atkins with inventing the “popwise ‘Nashville sound’ that rescued country music from a commercial slump” and ranked him number 21 on their list of “The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time”. Among many other honors, Atkins received 14 Grammy Awards and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He also received nine Country Music Association awards for Instrumentalist of the Year. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum.
(Photo courtesy Big Cedar Lodge)
Chet Atkins Tribute (Photo by George Kurland)
BY COWBOY JOHN FULLERTON,
a native of Taney County, and a member of the Sons of the Pioneers.
I
n 1926, Springfield, Missouri, native Lizzie McDaniel became the new owner of the famous Shepherd of the Hills Homestead. In her first year as owner, she saw almost 6,200 visitors. Daily, the fans would ask her about various book characters in Harold Bell Wright’s
“The Shepherd of the Hills” novel. Lizzie began to correspond by letter to Harold Bell Wright to get many of the questions answered. Here are some excerpts from Wright’s 1938 letter to Miss Lizzie. This is quite fascinating. He writes:
“Indeed, I am very glad for this opportunity to settle some of the many conflicting legends as to the characters in my novel.
‘Uncle Ike,’ the old postmaster in the story, is the only actual character which could be definitely placed as an actual portrait of a living person.
‘Old Matt’ and ‘Aunt Mollie’ were near portraits—I mean by that Mr. and Mrs. Ross inspired these characters but that in picturing them in the book I idealized and created characters which they in their lives suggested rather than personified.
I have been sometimes amused and often embarrassed by the stories told by various people who
Memories from the Homestead: Wright’s letter to Miss Lizzie
persist in the misstatement that I used my Ozark friends as models for the characters in my novel. In this connection an incident may interest you. I think it was in the year 1918 that I visited the Shepherd of the Hills Country with some motion picture technical men who were considering making a picture on the scenes in the story. I was standing on the veranda of a hotel in Branson, looking out over the country reliving in my mind my first trip to the neighborhood when a gentleman sitting near said: “I reckon you have read that book “The Shepherd of the Hills.” “Yes, I have read the story,” I answered. The gentleman then indicated a young woman passing on the other side of the street. “Do you see that girl?” “Yes. That is Sammy Lane.”
“Indeed,” said I. “But as I remember it, the book was written several years ago. I can understand how the Sammy Lane in the story might not grow old but I should think that in real life she would be by now a much older woman than a young lady.” “I live here and I reckon I know. That’s her alright and they’ve got Sammy’s pony down here and charge tourists fifty cents a head for ridin’ it.”
He then proceeded to give me much additional information about the story and the story people until at last aroused by something I said in reply he burst forth with, “Who are you, anyway?” “Nobody, Mister,” said I, “I’m just the feller that wrote the story.” He was embarrassed at first then appreciated the joke and we both had a hearty laugh. The actual setting of the story was as I pictured it
in the novel except that I moved the cave from its actual location to Dewey Bald. It was said in the neighborhood that there was a lost cave in Dewey Bald, but I certainly never found it. I had spent many hours in the cave with the Powell boys and Charlie Ross and saw no harm in locating the cave in Dewey Bald.
There was a real Fall Creek Mill operated by Mr. Ross and his son. The Ross house on the ridge overlooking Mutton Hollow was the Matthew’s cabin. There was an old trail with a rock which I named Sammy’s Lookout. There was a log house on the slope of Dewey which I imagined to be Sammy Lane’s home. There was no Wash Gibbs’ cabin on Roark that I knew anything about and as I have said there was no Wash Gibbs.
My first church was at Pierce City, Missouri. From there I went to Pittsburg, Kansas. I wrote my first book “That Printer of Udell’s” while in Pittsburg. I was the pastor of the Forest Avenue Christian Church in Kansas City when ill health sent me again into the Ozark Mountains where I outlined “The Shepherd of the Hills.” I then moved to Lebanon, Missouri, and that winter actually wrote the story. The summer I lived in the Ozarks and worked on “Shepherd” I lived in a tent on the hill near the old Ross home. I boarded with the Ross family. My tent was only a short distance up the hill from the house. I know of no “Hill Billy Preacher.” “Preachin’ Bill” in my story was a creature of my imagination, and if you remember he never actual-
ly appears in the story but is only quoted. His ‘wise saws’ were inventions of my own.
At the time I was working on this story Mr. Truman Powell was very seldom at his home in the Ozarks. I certainly did not ‘derive from him’ any inspiration for my book. His sons and I were good friends. Of course, I had heard many stories of the Baldknobbers from the neighborhood folk, but the incidents in the story were all inventions of my own without foundation in any tradition or fact.
It has, of course, been very gratifying to me that my simple story of the Ozark Mountains should be so real in the minds of those who know the Ozarks and the Ozark people. I often think that for me to revisit the scenes
of
Best selling author Harold Bell Wright, America’s first million selling author (Photo courtesy of the Harold Bell Wright Museum, Pierce City, Missouri) SEE HOMESTEAD, PAGE 7C
Jeep Branson 2024 was fun for all
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Branson was the site of an exciting Jeep Expo last weekend at the Branson Convention Center. Dubbed Jeep Branson 2024, the event brought thousands of Jeeps— and their owners—to Branson for three days of fun.
The weekend events included a pre-party at the Branson Ferris Wheel, a vendor showcase, a TexPlex Full Moon Night Ride, a party at Summit Nightlife, a Show
N Shine, a Jeep Parking Lot Party, and lots of live music, raffles, food and fun.
The highlight of Jeep Branson 2024 was the Jeep parade that ran through the Branson Landing, with thousands lined up to enjoy Jeeps of all kinds and colors!
The Jeep Expo also featured the world’s largest rubber duck, located in the Branson Convention Center parking lot throughout the event, garnering near-
ly as much attention as the Jeeps themselves. The duck was representative of a movement popular with Jeep owners known as Jeep Ducking—a tradition where Jeep owners place rubber ducks on other Jeeps as a friendly gesture and a way to show kindness and connect with other Jeep owners.
Even Branson’s Titanic Museum attraction joined the fun when several large ducks appeared in the water
surrounding the ship.
Many Jeeps also participated in an unofficial cruise of Branson 76 Country Boulevard on Sunday afternoon, as the Jeeps and their owners bid farewell to Branson.
Many Jeep owners commented on the fun they had during the weekend event, noting that they hope Jeep Branson becomes an annual event.
(Photos by K.D. Michaels)
SMAC Art Center to present ‘Good Soil’ exhibit
Submitted to Branson Globe
The Southern Missouri Arts Connection (SMAC) will present the work of local artist Mary Evelyn Tucker in a solo exhibit, “Good Soil,” at the SMAC Art Center on historic 7 Downing Street in Hollister. The exhibit will run from July 5-27. The opening night reception for the show will be held Friday, July 5, 6-9 p.m., in conjunction with State of the Ozarks (SOTO) First Friday Art Walk. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. Tucker is well-known in the area for her heartwarming watercolor pet portraits and beautiful botanicals. For her upcoming exhibit she has incorporated a variety of mediums, including watercolors made from soil and plant-based materials. Her artwork includes a mixture of botanical and animal subjects, along with unique items such as tufted rugs. Alongside each piece will be the story of its creation.
“My intent is to emphasize the importance of community and growth,” Tucker said of the theme of her show. “Good Soil is a celebration of the interconnectedness of life and the sustaining power of nature.”
During the opening reception, attendees may view the exhibit, enjoy free refreshments and tour the rest of the center’s private studios. The Vintage Paris Coffee kiosk will be on sight. The reception sponsor for the exhibit, The Stemmery, will have hand tied flower bouquets. During the reception Tucker will talk about her art and answer questions at 7:30 p.m.
Each month during their exhibits, SMAC highlights one of the many local nonprofit organizations that serves the area. This month
SMAC is drawing attention to the Branson Humane Society. The Humane Society aids in the alleviating of distress and suffering of animals, and promotes humane treatment through protection, place-
ment and public education.
Southern Missouri Arts Connection (SMAC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit local center of creativity, art education, innovation, and community partnership.
Tucker (Photo submitted)
Village of Taneyville enjoys fun and food at annual Community Picnic
his decked-out lawn tractor. The ingenious young man spent very little cash on the tractor, which he now uses regularly. (Photos by Philip Thomas)
BY
flea-market bargains.
On the hot afternoon, festival-goers were able to visit a cooling station while chatting with Central Taney County firefighters and first responders. Several candidates for county offices were also on hand to get better acquainted with the constituents they hope to serve.
After winding down activities in the park, many community members made their way to the baseball field at the nearby Taneyville School for a cookout dinner sponsored by LODGE Church and Ministries. There were also games, face-painting, a cakewalk and chances to win fun raffle items, while awaiting the patriotic celebration and fireworks display that wrapped up the day.
Village officials said the annual get-together is a way to continue the spirit of community that has characterized the Ozarks for many generations; LODGE Ministries leaders agreed, saying their goal is to bring people together in fellowship, share the love of Christ, and let them know there are caring people who are ready to help in time of need.
Anyone new to the area, or who hasn’t ventured into the central and eastern portions of Taney County except for the occasional courthouse or license office business, will enjoy a drive along the scenic stretches of Highways 76 and 160, handy to some good fishing and with some great local dining establishments and shady community parks.
Legends Gymnastics Academy gymnasts, coaches enjoy successful camp
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
The gymnasts at Hollister’s Legends Gymnastics Academy realized a rare opportunity last weekend to receive instruction from an Olympic Gymnastics Coach.
Tammy Biggs visited Legends Gymnastics over the weekend where she trained and instructed both the gymnasts and their coaches.
Biggs has worked as a Women’s Artistic National Team coach since 1986 and has worked with every
national team for the past 36 years. Biggs, the co-author of the Women’s TOPS program, which identifies the most talented in U.S. gymnasts, is a coach, mentor and educator. She has acted as a consultant for the USA Gymnastics Women’s Development Program on compulsory routines. She was the personal coach to Olympian Missy Marlowe and has attended every Olympics since 1988.
Biggs travels to 15 to 20 camps each year, where
she works one-on-one with both gymnasts and coaches to strengthen the sport of gymnastics at all levels.
“My daughter has been looking forward to this camp since she found out Tammy was coming to our gym,” said Tiffany, of her 10-yearold gymnast Mattison. “She came home excited every day and even though the camp was long hours and strenuous, she was excited to return each morning. Each day she came home excited to tell us about the new skills she was learning.”
Tiffany continued, “As a parent, I was lucky to get to watch several hours of the practice while taking photos for the gym. It was exciting to see the girls get to interact with a coach that has as much experience and knowledge as Tammy does. My daughter aspires to move up and compete at a collegiate level one day, so I think this was a great experience for the girls to see higher level skills and practices and encourage them to keep pursuing their dreams.”
Connie McBroom, Director and Head Coach at Legends Gymnastics Academy noted, “It was an honor to have someone like Tammy take an interest in our gymnasts. She travels all over the country visiting different gyms, training and observing the talent that is out there. For her to come here and train with these young ladies was amazing. She found the talent she was looking for not only in gymnasts but also in our coaching staff. I’ve trained with
Tammy many times as a National Team Coach and for my Olympic Coaching certification. She knows exactly how to break down every skill so the gymnasts understand exactly what they are doing wrong. She was able to take that technique and train my coaching staff the same technique.”
McBroom added, “She has promised a follow-up visit to ensure that the training we are doing is up to the standards set by USA Gymnastics.”
Stone County Historical Genealogical Society and Museum features Hurley
BY BARBARA BOOTH
The Stone County Historical Genealogical Society and Museum is featuring Hurley, Missouri this week.
In the early 1800s the settlers came up on a beautiful scenic valley with many springs providing an abundance of clear water streams. Someone named the new found area Spring Creek. A mill was built and powered by the water of the swift flowing stream. Wheat and corn were ground for area residents. By the 1890s the Spring
Creek Mill was the start of the first industry in the small settlement.
The settlement grew in Spring Creek. In 1898 a post office was built and when the U.S. Postal Service refused to accept the name Spring Creek, then
Hurley, Missouri, was born.
In 1904 the Missouri Pacific Railroad began work on a shortcut from Crane to Springfield. The railroad was built by hand with hard labor along with mule power for assistance. By April 1907, the track was finished.
By 1916 Hurley had Campfire Girls.
The tomato canning factory was in full swing running day and night that late summer of 1916. The canning factory employed half the town plus some outsiders.
The town of Hurley was flourishing by the 1900s and featured: the Spring Creek Mill (grinding flour,
meal and feed), a lumber company, farmers exchange, general merchandise store, cafe, barber shop, shoe shop and repair, telephone central, MoPac station agent, physician and surgeon, Ford sales and service, hardwares and implements, produce dealer and shipper, Bank of Hurley, blacksmith, boarding house, groceries, a school and churches.
We can help you with your rent, groceries and gas. Please call to get the details 417-337-3772.
Hurley is located in the northern part of Stone County.
The Historical Museum is open Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Stop in at 103 S. Main St., Crane, for more information on Stone County’s history and heritage.
Signs
Stevie Lee Woods, Sunfest Market, Sweet Shack Branson, Tequilas, The
Chef Branson and Wranglers Star Studded Honky Tonk.
guest
CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer On Saturday, June 23, residents of the Village of
Taneyville and surrounding areas enjoyed the annual Community Picnic, held in Sullenger Park just
off Hwy. 76 in Taneyville.
Attendees enjoyed live music and a car show, along with delicious offerings
from food and snack vendors, while browsing several other vendors offering craft items and some great
LEFT: Members LODGE church and ministries enjoyed serving the community at a free cookout featuring games and fireworks. RIGHT: Trevor was excited to win a trophy for
Local organization encourages young entrepreneurs
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A fun event last weekend
raised funds for a relatively new nonprofit organization.
The Little Founders Club began about a year ago as a way to encourage youngsters to begin and maintain their own businesses.
“The Little Founders Club is a nonprofit. We teach them how to run their business. We give them lots of networking options and guidelines on how to do things. Also, at the end of the year we get a grant
in their hands for whatever they need for their business,” explained Trina. “When they participate throughout the year, they learn different things, but they also have opportunities to earn towards their end of year grant.”
Grants are awarded after the young entrepreneurs participate in an annual showcase.
Said Trina, “The Little Founders Showcase is kind of a shark tank type of event. The kids come in and tell us
about their business. There are judges, and the judges ask them questions and kind of get a feel for what’s happening and what they need. They have to explain what they need and the judges decide what to award them.”
The weekend event, the Little Founders Fair, held at The Falls Shopping Center, featured a car show, food and fun, and many young businessmen and women manning booths and sharing their talents.
Youth ages 17 and under
that are interested in the Little Founders Club can contact the organization through their Facebook page, or email Littlefoundersclub@ gmail.com. Interested young people will be sent a link to fill out an application to join the Little Founders Club.
“The kids have done great over the last year. They have really worked hard,” said Trina. “We’ve got about 10 young Founders in our organization right now, but there’s definitely room for more!”
Branson United Methodist to sponsor superhero VBS, registration opens July 1
Submitted to Branson Globe
The Branson United Methodist Church on West Hwy 76 has found the key to youngsters’ hearts: superheroes! In September of 2022, the church’s Family Ministry Committee decided to offer a one-day superheroes training camp as one of several mega events for the community that year.
“Of all the events we have held for the community in recent years, none have been better attended or more exciting to the community kids and parents than the
• HOMESTEAD
Continued from page 3C
my story would be a great delight, and yet, I am not so sure. So many changes have
superheroes,” says Waverly Engle, coordinator of the church’s Family Ministry Committee.
While brainstorming theme ideas for Vacation Bible School this year, the planners unanimously agreed on the theme: Jesus Is My Superhero! The Family Ministry Committee, comprised of educators with backgrounds in elementary teaching and administration, reading specialists and parents, played with the idea a bit and identified four super strengths that Jesus
come to the Mutton Hollow neighborhood that I fear it would not be the same to me.”
Well, friends, there you
illustrated. There is a super strength to explore each day of this year’s Vacation Bible School, through six activities: music, a science project, a Bible story, an outdoor water game, a craft, and a cooking session. “From there, the ideas just fell into place,” said another enthusiastic planner. There is an educator in charge of every session. Cathy Dalton, Gifted Education teacher for Hollister Elementary Schools until her retirement this spring, will be in charge of a daily science project for
have it. I can definitely say that if Wright were here today for a visit, he would still see the presence of the Ozarks spirit among us all.
each small group.
This year’s VBS is expected to be a big hit with the students of all ages. Branson United Methodist Church is offering it at no cost for area kids who have completed any grade K through five, and not just for members of the church. Older fans of superhero comics will also be gladly accepted as small group co-leaders to the adult educators. “Capes are optional,” laughs Marj Trumble, prior elementary teacher and principal in Branson. While there is no charge
The farm here at the Shepherd of the Hills Homestead has been open to the public now for 112 years. This year is the 130th anniversary of
to attend, participants must be registered by their parent or guardian. “We are not sure how many students we will be able to accept,” states Tom Engle, church treasurer. It may depend on the breakout of ages as children are divided into six smaller groups for the daily sessions. I would advise parents to enroll early on the website.” Registration opens July 1. “Jesus, My Superhero” will be held July 29 through August 1 at Branson United Methodist Church, 8:30 a.m. to noon.
the Ross family homesteading the 160-acre property. Come on over and spend a day here, catch my guided tour of the property, and I’ll
Sack lunches will be sent home daily with students. Wednesday evening, the children will present their super strengths to family members. For enrollment, scan the code above, or call: 417-334-3423.
share some more details of Wright’s visits to the area and the impact of it all. See more at www. theshepherdofthehills.com.
ABOVE: Best of class: 2008 Harley Road Glide, Ray Gilson/owner (Photo by George Kurland) FAR LEFT: One of the cars on display at the Little Founders Fair Car Show (Photo by K.D. Michaels) LEFT: Young Founders displayed their wares at a recent fundraising event (Photo by K.D. Michaels)
Sunshine Lemon Bars
BY CHEF JEFF
WOODWARD,
The Rogue Chef Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 16
INGREDIENTS:
1 C Butter, softened
• 2 ¼ C All Purpose Flour, divided
2 C Sugar, divided
• 4 Eggs
2 Lemons, juiced
• ¼ C Powdered Sugar
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Preheat the oven to 350° F.
2. Mix together the softened butter, 2 cups flour, and ½ cup of sugar in a medium bowl.
3. Press into the bottom of an ungreased 9x13-inch pan.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until firm and golden.
5. Whisk together the remaining ¼ cup flour
Delicious, cold summer desserts, hold the guilt
Staff Reports
Oh, ice cream, how we love you: rich, creamy, delicious. Fattening. What if we could celebrate National Ice Cream Month in July without the guilt?
Here are four solutions for your ice cream cravings
– one of them is even chocolate – that you can feel good about eating! All of these recipes are submitted by Branson Globe Editor, Janet Steinkamp. ***
Cantaloupe Sorbet
Healthy dessert that will satisfy your craving for a summer treat with just four ingredients and no refined sugar.
INGREDIENTS:
4 ½ cups fresh cantaloupe
1 medium cantaloupe, cubed
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons raw honey
• 2 tablespoons water, plus more as needed
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Line a baking sheet with
parchment paper and set aside.
2. Place the cubed cantaloupe onto the baking sheet, leaving space in between the cubes to allow for even freezing.
3. Place the tray into the freezer and freeze the cantaloupe overnight, or until completely frozen for at least 4-6 hours.
4. Place the frozen cantaloupe into a food processor and pulse until the cantaloupe becomes crumbly.
5. Add the lemon juice, honey and water and pulse mixture with food processor again. You may need to add more water until the mixture becomes more fluid, but not slushy.
6. You’re looking for a soft sorbet texture now.
7. Taste and add any additional honey as needed at this time if it needs to be a little sweeter.
8. If the mixture becomes too slushy and does not resemble sorbet, you can return to the freezer for 30 minutes to an hour to allow it to re-solidify.
9. Serve immediately, or store in the freezer in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
*** Chocolate Banana Ice Cream
Super easy with just two ingredients; creamy and delicious, and only 84 calories.
INGREDIENTS:
3 large ripe bananas
2 tablespoons dark cocoa powder
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Slice the bananas into approximately ¼ inch slices and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space in between slices so they don’t touch.
2. Place bananas in the freezer and freeze for at least 3-4 hours to allow to fully harden.
3. Place the frozen banana slices into the bowl of a food processor or a heavy duty blender.
4. Process the bananas, scraping the sides of the food processor as needed. After a few minutes, the mixture will resemble soft-serve ice cream.
5. Add the dark cocoa powder and blend again. You may need to use a spatula
to scrape the sides, etc.
6. You may eat the ice cream right away, but it will be super soft. Instead, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze until it’s more solid for about one hour.
*** Fresh Peach Frozen Yogurt
Only four ingredients in this delicious dessert. No ice cream maker is needed.
INGREDIENTS:
• 3 cups fresh peaches, approximately 3-4 medium peaches, sliced and pitted
• 2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons raw honey, melted
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Place the sliced and pitted peaches on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the peaches are separated.
2. Place the peach slices into the freezer and freeze for at least 2-3 hours.
3. Add the frozen peaches to the food processor and process until they become evenly crumbly,
and 1 ½ cups sugar in a bowl while the crust is baking.
6. Add the eggs and lemon juice.
7. Pour over the baked crust and bake for 20 more minutes.
8. Dust the top with powdered sugar and cut into 2-inch squares, once the pan has cooled completely.
GO ROGUE by adding
but not pureed.
4. Add the raw honey, plain Greek yogurt, and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the food processor, and process again until a smooth, creamy consistency appears, about 2-4 minutes. You many need to scrape down the sides once or twice along the way. (If you don’t have a food processor, you could use a heavy duty kitchen blender.)
5. Once everything is smooth, taste for sweetness, and add additional honey as needed.
6. You can serve immediately or transfer to airtight container and freeze for a couple hours for a harder consistency.
***
Lemon Blueberry Sor-
bet
Make delicious lemon blueberry sorbet without an ice cream maker. This super easy recipe is low in sugar and a healthy way to beat the summer heat.
INGREDIENTS:
• 3 cups fresh blueberries
fresh raspberries on top. Want Chef Jeff, The Rogue Chef, to make this delicious dessert for you? Contact him at www. TheRogueChefBranson. com.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zestgrab the zest before juicing the lemon 1/3 cup water
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pour the rinsed blueberries onto the parchment paper and separate as much as possible. Remove any blueberry stems.
3. Place the blueberries in the freezer and freeze overnight, or for at least 4-5 hours to get them fully frozen.
4. Add the frozen blueberries to a food processor, followed by the raw honey, fresh lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice and water.
5. Process the mixture until the blueberries become crumbly, pressing down the mixture with a spatula as needed.
6. Continue to process until the mixture becomes smoother and evenly processed.
7. Once everything is smooth, taste for sweetness, and add additional honey as needed.
8. Serve this sorbet immediately or transfer it to an air-tight container and freeze for a couple hours for a harder consistency.
SOURCE FOR ALL RECIPES: Lacey Baier | Asweetpeachchef.com
2 tablespoons raw honey, plus more for added sweetness • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (1 lemon)
SOURCE CREDITS: Lisa Kaminski, Lauren Cahn, Taste of Home. com. Updated: 4/10/2024
LARRY DABLEMONT is an outdoor publisher, columnist, author, speaker, naturalist and outdoorsman.
I have had no outdoor adventures lately. It has been three weeks since I came down with something called RSV, which stands for “respiratory something virus.” It took me two weeks to get over that. Right behind it was a scheduled knee operation made necessary by the fact that I jumped off the front of my boat last year, as I have done for decades. But that most recent time I tore something called a meniscus. I don’t know what it is, but it’s a major part of walking found inside your knee. And what you can’t do without it is, you can’t wade in the river where there are big rocks because it hurts badly when you do and you often fall. You also can’t bend over to catch a frog or get on your knees to take a
high-quality ice cream.
Bunny Tracks is made with vanilla ice cream, caramel, fudge swirls, chocolate covered peanuts and peanut butter. It’s rich, decadent, and Blue Bunny’s most popular flavor outside of vanilla.
Kansas: Purple Pride (blueberry) – Nothing screams “K-State Purple Pride” like the blueberry ice cream known as Purple Pride.
Louisiana: Praline Pecan
– People in the south love their pecans! This flavor is a delicious mix of
Outdoors with Larry Dablemont: Woe is me and my knee!
catfish off a trotline.
Being a grizzled old outdoors veteran, I can take a tremendous amount of pain, but limping around like you have a ten-penny nail drove into your knee gets aggravating. So I get over the RSV problem and go right in to have my meniscus took out or sewed back together or whatever, and all this comes about the time I normally do some nighttime bass fishing or trotline fishing in the cooler part of the day, which is the night. The reason I am not writing about that is because I am limping around my place wondering why it hurts as much to fix a meniscus as it does to break it! But I am patient, so I wait. Like I have a choice? It has been fixed for three days, and I have no recourse but to sit and complain and perhaps sharpen my trotline hooks as I watch “Gunsmoke” on television. My knee is just about like it was on day one and day two. The arthroscopic surgeon says I will be good as new someday; perhaps when duck season gets here, I don’t know. Right now, putting on a pair of waders would be next to impossible.
brown sugar, cream, butter and pecans—a taste of sweet and crunchy.
• Minnesota: Salted Caramel – The flavor that flies off the shelves the most often in Minnesota is sea salt caramel.
• MISSOURI: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough: The “Show Me State” has a popular variation of cookie dough ice cream with vanilla ice cream, cookie dough chunks and chocolate chunks. Did you know? The waffle cone was invented in St. Louis during the 1904 World’s Fair.
But I shall prevail—I hope. I am downright determined, defiantly dedicated and dadblamed disgusted! Life will be different from now on. Jumping off anything higher than a brick will no longer be done. My deer stand will be two feet shorter. And using my imagination and sharp-asa-razor memory, I leave you with what would be happening this week or next, if this darn knee recuperates to full usability. Here goes…
“----The heat of the day is behind me. It is substantially dark, and upriver a boss bullfrog is bellowing. I will go after him soon, quietly paddling my boat toward the bank where his bulky body sits. I will shine a broad beam of light in his eyes and grab him with my free hand. He will go into the burlap bag with a couple of his bellowing bullfrog buddies, bound for a fine frog fry soon to come. Families of young crawdads along that eddy will rest easier because of his demise. For baby crawdads a boss bullfrog is a bad bully.
But first, I pick up my rod and cast my jitterbug lure toward the bank in the coolness
Nebraska: Butter Brickle – This is a classic Nebraska treat with vanilla ice cream loaded with crunchy toffee pieces.
Oklahoma: Strawberry –Oklahoma’s state fruit is strawberries—a natural for the state’s staple ice cream flavor.
• South Dakota: Cookies ‘N Cream – According to South Dakota State University, this state claims to be the home of the ever popular cookies ‘n cream ice cream.
Texas: Homemade Vanilla – The popular Texas-based Blue Bell Creameries have captured Texans’
of fading evening. The big lure slides across the still water swirling below the shoal and a smallmouth bass of substantial size slurps it under with a surprisingly quiet splash. My rod is nearly doubled, and I let him wear down as I wait, never lessening the pressure, holding the jitterbug hooks solid in his jaw. Then I net the rascal and admire his size before I release him; a battling big brown bass, bold and beautiful in the bright beam of my brow-light there on the bottom of the boat. Again, the bullfrog bellows upstream. Should I go after him or try another cast? It is a difficult decision, one an outdoorsman like me must make on a regular basis. But I am up to it; such is the ways and the plight of a grizzled old veteran riverman! Right or wrong, I will live by such decisions which must be made, once this darned knee gets back to normal! But I sure as heck won’t ever decide to jump off the boat!
If you like to read, I have a new short story book coming out and a new magazine, too. You can get copies or information about either
taste buds for homemade vanilla ice cream. Interesting (and unusual) ice cream flavors listed by state: Alaska: Eskimo Ice Cream or Akutaq is a mixture of whipped fat and berries like cranberries and blueberries. Now it’s more commonly made by adding cream and sugar for more sweetness.
• Arizona: Horchata – a creamy blend of ice cream and cinnamon Hawaii: Ube is a purple-hued yam with a sweet, vanilla-like flavor. The beautiful lavender color
I may answer in a somewhat pained voice. Read past columns on www.larrydablemont.outdoors and write to me at Box 22, Bolivar, MO 65613 A lucky bass: All I want is the photo and he goes free.
by calling my office, 417777-5227. Normally, you would have to talk with my secretary, Ms. Wiggins, but while this knee heals, you likely will get a hold of me.
adds to the demand for this flavor on the islands.
Kentucky: Bourbon Vanilla – Kentucky is known for bourbon, so why not bourbon vanilla, bourbon pecan and bourbon praline ice cream?
• Maryland: Maryland Mud – a variation of Mississippi Mud, this is a combination of chocolate ice cream with chocolate chips and Oreo chunks.
New Mexico: Chocolate Chili – This ice cream turns up the heat a bit with rich chocolate and a touch of chili.
Rhode Island: Espresso
– Rhode Islanders love their coffee so much that espresso ice cream is the state’s favorite.
• Vermont: Teaberry –Brightly colored like bubblegum with a unique flavor of wintergreen, this flavor is only found in New England.
• Wisconsin: Blue Moon – It has the blue Smurfs’ color with an interesting and questionable flavor: Is it Froot Loops? Almond? Marshmallow? Animal crackers? Whatever flavor you decide, everyone loves Wisconsin’s signature ice cream—Blue Moon.
(Photo by Larry Dablemont)
• ICE CREAM
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
a. “Notice of Public Hearing on July 9 at 5:50 p.m. at the Village of Indian Point office located at 957 Indian Point Road. 41 Hazel Lane is requesting a Zone Map Amendment from Residential (R-1) to Commercial (C-2) Zoning.”
b. “Notice of Public Hearing on July 9 at 5:45 p.m. at the Village of Indian Point office located at 957 Indian Point Road. 806 Jakes Creek Trail is requesting a Zone Map Amendment from Residential (R-1) to Commercial (C-2).”
c. The Village of Indian Point Planning and Zoning Commission will consider an application from Max White for the preliminary plat of White Wing Lodge Condominium Plat. The proposed development is located at 982 Indian Point Road. Public commend will be accepted at a meeting held on July, 9 at 5:40 p.m. at the Village Office located at 957 Indian Point Road.
GRIEF SHARE SUPPORT GROUP: A new class for Grief Share will begin Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2024, at the Branson UMC. This is open to people from our community, surrounding areas and our own church family at BUMC. We welcome both new and returning participants. Gather at 1 p.m. for “social time” and class will begin promptly at 1:30 p.m. For questions call Peggy at 641-919-1533. All are welcome!
ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCATION SUPPORT GROUP meets at the Branson-Hollister Senior Center, 201 Compton Dr., Branson, the last Wednesday of every month from 1:30-3 p.m. For more information, call Mark Applegate at 417-955-2513 or email mark.applegate@ senioragemo.org.
IF YOU ARE A MILITARY VETERAN in need of a place to live, please call us and we’ll try to meet your needs. GUMI CAMP USA 417-559-3892
VETERANS & MILITARY COALITION OF THE OZARKS is an all-volunteer organization of veterans serving veterans. Contact us if you feel that you, as a veteran or veteran family, may not be receiving the benefits you deserve. Go to VMCO1.org and click on CONTACT at the top of the home page. VMCO meets monthly on the third Thursday of the month (no meeting in July or November) at the Golden Corral in Branson with 11:15 a.m. (optional) lunch buffet and 12-1 p.m. meeting.
CELEBRATE RECOV-
ERY is a place to heal from your hurts, habits, and hangups. We meet every Monday night at 6:30 PM at Music City Centre, 1839 West 76 Country Blvd., Branson. For more information call 417–3202055 See you there!
AMERICAN LEGION
POST #220 would love to invite all of our former and current U.S. military friends to join us Monday mornings, 9 a.m., for coffee and pastries, with the exception of the second Monday of the month and national holidays. Come join us at M. Graham Clark Downtown Airport, 491 Blue Sky Lane, Hollister. Monthly business meeting is the 2nd Monday of the month 6 p.m. at Denny’s, 2335 West 76 County Blvd., Branson. We look forward to meeting you! HOOAH!
IF MY PEOPLE, WHICH ARE CALLED BY MY NAME, shall humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14
SERVICES OFFERED
CLEANING SERVICES for residential, commercial. New construction and resorts. Serving the Tri-Lakes Area. Contact Tina Beth at 417-824-3092.
DEADLINE FOR FRIDAY’S PAPER: Wednesdays @ 10 a.m.
GET YOUR ALWAYS-FREE BRANSON GLOBE DELIVERED TO YOUR EMAIL INBOX! Go to www.bransonglobe.com
ACE HOME IMPROVEMENT: Heating and air, HVAC service and repair, doors, windows, decks, fences, pressure washing, interior and exterior painting, siding, roofing, flooring, tile and drywall. Handyman work! Call Ryan: 417-335-1347.
FREE ESTIMATES AND TIMELY RESPONSE. Full remodels, decks, pole barns, garages, fencing and small projects. Call 417-699-1635
FOR SALE
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. Call 540-849-5425.
LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT EMPLOYEE? Place an ad in the Globe, and fill that position FAST! An ad just like this one costs just $16.50/week!
ONE AND TWO-BEDROOM HOMES for rent. W/D provided. Quiet and peaceful in 45-plus community. Low deposit. Discounts for seniors. Call 417-337-3285.
FOR RENT: 3 BEDROOM, 2 bath house, 182 Ashland, Bull Creek. All appliances, 2 porches, carport. $1,300/mo. Nice! Ph. 417-593-9660.
FOR LEASE: JUST REMODELED, 3-bedroom, 1-bath home, 145 Greenbriar Lane, Hollister. Has fenced in back yard, and 1-car attached garage, laminate flooring. No smokers. $1,200 P/M. Background app. fee $65. Call Carolyn 417-3370398. PLEASE LEAVE MESSAGE.
FOR LEASE Newly remodeled, 3 bedroom 2 bath home, 190 Evans St., Hollister. Has large fenced-in backyard, laminate flooring, and custom window blinds. No smokers. $1,375 per month. Background app. fee: $65. Call Carolyn @ 417-337-0398. Please LEAVE MESSAGE. I will call you back.
ROOMS FOR RENT
WEEKLY MOTEL ROOM
SHO-ME
&
FLOORING: WANTED
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.
Add a little color to your advertising, and watch readers take notice! Run an ad like this one for $25/wk.
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.
RENTAL: Family friendly. Deposit and rule agreement required. Cable/ WiFi, fridge and micro included. $189/week. Colonial Mountain Inn, Branson West 417-272-8414. HOME TO SELL OR ROOM TO RENT? Let the Globe help you get the word out. Reach thousands of readers each week with an ad just like this for only $17.75!
LOOKING FOR A NANNY DRIVER. Assistance needed picking up my son from Hollister Middle School every school day and bringing him home. It’s a 10-minute drive. $150 a month. Call and leave voice mail at 417-527-5719.
LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT full or part time employee? Place an ad in the Branson Globe, and fill that position FAST! An ad just like this one costs just $17.75/ week!
1776 Final draft of Declaration of Independence submitted to Continental Congress
• 1870 Congress creates federal holidays (New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day) initially applicable only to federal employees
• 1894 Labor Day established as a holiday for U.S. federal employees 1918 First flight between Hawaiian Islands
• 1926 Mercedes-Benz forms when the world’s oldest automobile manufacturers DMG and Benz & Cie merge
• 1935 President Franklin D. Roosevelt orders a federal gold vault be built at Fort Knox, Kentucky
1965 First U.S. ground combat forces in Vietnam authorized by President
Lyndon B. Johnson
1971 Supreme Court (8-0) overturns draft evasion conviction of Muhammed Ali
• 1976 First woman was admitted to Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado
1982 Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales, name their baby William
1992 Two earthquakes, including third strongest in U.S. (7.4), rock California 2020 COVID-19 cases surge in southern and western U.S. with California, Texas and Florida closing bars; Arizona reports 20% of tests returning as positive
• 2020 Global death toll from COVID-19 passes 500,000.
Things Today’s Kids Don’t Recognize
Word find from Beck Museums of Branson
•
Solution: onlinecrosswords. net/6053 Across
1. Facilitate
5. Archie Bunker, et al.
11. Inflation cause?
14. On an even ___
15. Actor Estevez
16. Toronto’s prov. 17. Anne’s fictional home
19. London john 20. Annually 21. Husband of Frigg
22. Summer shade 23. Tranquil 25. Jolly man?
28. Ave. crossers
31. Car scars
32. “Jane ___”
33. Farm herder
35. Bullring bravo
36. Hero
37. ___ carte
40. Switched to a pricier model, e.g.
42. Popular ear cleaner
43. Linger behind 45. Henna, for one
46. Leather variety
47. Cue
49. Actress Arthur 50. “Zounds!” 51. Granny Smith producer
57. Prominent rock
58. F. Scott Fitzgerald novel, with “The” 60. Large sandwich, for short
