A major announcement took place October 17 that SDC will be “growing!” An expansion that will take over 500 million Silver Dollars to make, to be exact! The ground has been broken and construction is already underway. This phase is targeted to open toward the end of 2026 with so many exciting features. You will get to experience premium amenities, priority park access, fantastic views, exclusive offers all starting in the 262 “Themed Room Resort Hotel!” This
hotel will be seven stories tall and will feature indoor/ outdoor pool, restaurants onsite, and countless other amenities. We will be able to host events and conferences in our 17,000 square foot meeting area. This is all part of the new expansion for the over 1,200 acres of land to develop.
Governor Parson was on hand and stated, “We are excited to see this bring economic growth, thousands of jobs and millions of visitors to our area! This will showcase Silver Dollar City’s commit-
ment to tourism and growth in the Ozarks and for the state of Missouri.”
This is the largest investment in the 65-year history of Herschend Family Entertainment. President of HFEC, Brad Thomas stated in the announcement, “Over the next 10 years, we will mindfully transform and redefine the 1,200 acres into a one-of-a-kind experience in the “Heart Of The Ozarks!” It will be a continuation of the park’s story and creativity, with a start of a new era moving forward
with all the discovery and craftsmanship of tomorrow. This will be the only resort of its kind right here in the Heartland of America. We have always honored our past and will continue to “Make Memories Worth Repeating” as we continue this expansion over the next 10 years by creating different things within this area.”
The humble beginnings starting with cave tours in 1950 to this kind of expansion will be breathtaking and exciting. Over the years, SDC has continued to
grow and develop into what it is today. Over the years, HFEC has had similar ventures with the sister property, “Dollywood” in Pigeon Forge, TN. It has had great success with the two resorts that have been built in the last decade. Brad also stated, “We’ve got a lot of development plans that aren’t going to be revealed today, so put on your seatbelt and get ready for the breathtaking ride over the next few years! In this crazy time that we are living in right now,
Area residents given opportunity to help hurricane victims
BY K.D. MICHAELS,
Presley’s Country Jubilee and Convoy of Hope are partnering to aid the
victims of two recent hurricanes—Helene and Milton.
Presley’s Country Jubilee is offering those in our local area the opportunity to see their legendary show for a fabulous low price, with proceeds from ticket
sales going to Convoy of Hope. Through October 31, you can enjoy the music and comedy of Presley’s Country Jubilee for just $15. This offer is open to residents of Taney, Stone, Christian and
Greene counties in Missouri and Boone County in Arkansas. Convoy of Hope will be the recipient of the monies taken in from ticket sales, to help those affected by recent hurricanes.
For tickets or a show
schedule, call 417-3344874 or visit Presleys.com. Proof of residency in local counties is required. Those outside of the local area are welcome to purchase tickets at regular ticket prices.
Table Rock Lake Chamber presents awards at Lake Splash event
Submitted to Branson Globe
The Table Rock Lake Chamber of Commerce presented four community awards on Saturday, October 19, during the 2024 Lake Splash Community Awards Program and Annual Banquet held at the Chateau on the Lake Resort, Spa and Convention Center.
The Guardian Award recognizes a first responder
(law enforcement, firefighter, paramedic/EMT or 911 dispatcher) and their fearless and unselfish service in helping keep the community safe. The award was presented to Stone County Sheriff Doug Rader. Among Sheriff Rader’s accomplishments: he reintroduced the Drug Dog Program; worked with the County Commission to increase the starting wages
for deputies; implemented a Drone Program, purchased UTVs and a boat for river patrol; and received a Command/Crime Scene trailer for investigations. He is a working sheriff who is not afraid to be on the front lines beside the deputies when things are critical. He also developed a Citizens Academy, where he takes citizens behind the scenes in what the Sheriff’s
Department does and sees.
The honoree for Business of the Year was White River Valley Electric Cooperative.
The member-owned electric cooperative has committed to installing broadband fiber to every home in their five-county service area, including Stone County.
The multi-year, $500 million-plus project will transform these communities by
bringing fast and reliable internet service to our area, leaving a legacy of positive impact in southwest Missouri. In addition, White River sponsors Operation Round Up, distributing more than $5.3 million to students, local organizations and families in its service area, along with other community and youth enrichment activities.
Local treasure changes her address – SEE PAGE
Photo courtesy Silver Dollar City
That’s great news!
From Indian Point –
On Friday, October 4, Indian Point Police Officer, Doug Thomas, was dispatched on a call for service regarding an unconscious person having a medical emergency. Officer Thomas arrived on scene and located a female, not breathing and without a detectable pulse. Officer Thomas and a bystander began CPR and rescue breathing along with deploying his assigned AED. Fire department personnel and Mercy paramedics arrived soon thereafter and took over the lifesaving efforts. The female was resuscitated and regained consciousness.
From Cox Branson –
Cox Medical Center Branson recently presented employees with three DAISY Awards and three Sunshine Awards.
DAISY AWARDS
Jacob Cheney, registered nurse, Intensive Care Unit
“My blood pressure was extremely low and he was so busy working to get my reading up — and finally did,” the patient says. “He prayed with me and for me. He got me the necessary fluids and meds.” Cheney treated the patient with care, respect and a servant’s heart.
Ben Kiracofe, registered nurse, Step Down Unit
A visiting patient came to Cox Branson after having a stroke. After he was discharged, he experienced problems with his vision and ability to move about, making the three-hour drive home a difficult and unsafe task for the patient and his son.
That’s when Kiracofe jumped in to help. When he found out about the situation, he
called his own son, and together they safely got the family back to where they needed to go.
Greg Van Meter, registered nurse, Intensive Care Unit
When a Cox Branson patient had a positive breakthrough with their health, Van Meter rejoiced in such a way that it helped the patient’s spouse feel like they weren’t alone.
“He made us feel like we were being taken care of by an angel,” the patient’s spouse says.
SUNSHINE AWARDS
Zoie Coleman, nursing assistant, Step Down Unit:
Coleman recently sat in Labor and Delivery with a patient and her newborn. Although the mother was combative, aggressive and verbally abusive to medical staff, Coleman stuck with the patient and stayed the entire time.
Recently, a patient who had been unable to bathe for several weeks was uncomfortable. James assembled her supplies and proceeded to bathe the patient from head to toe. The patient reported feeling much better after being pampered.
“She was a ray of sunshine each time she walked in ... she made ‘cleaning up’ feel like a spa adventure between two old friends.” That’s how a patient describes her interaction with Turan.
Veterans Week opening ceremony Nov. 5
Submitted to Branson Globe
The 2024 Veterans Week opening ceremony will be held November 5 at 10 a.m. at the College of the Ozarks Patriots Park. The posting and retiring of colors, wreath laying and rifle volley will be by the Branson Veterans of America 913 Honor Guard. Taps will be played by Sergeant Major (E9) Bob Smither, U.S. Army Ret.
Branson Mayor Larry Milton will read his proclamation, proclaiming Branson as the most patriotic city in America. Dr. Jerry C. Davis, President Emeritus, College of the Ozarks, will explain the Missouri Vietnam Memorial story, and the keynote speaker will be Brig. Gen. James Schreffler, VP for Patriotic Activities, College of the Ozarks; Asst. Adjutant
General MOARNG. The invocation and benediction will be led by Sierra Smith, C of O senior, and the Nation Anthem and God Bless America will be performed by Jackson Collins, C of O senior. The Pledge will be conducted by Sgt. First Class Ernie Bradley, U.S. Army Ret. For more information, call Bob Sarver, 417-294-0728.
Ladies’ gala Friday raises funds for downtown
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
The ladies of the Branson community will join together this Friday for an evening of fun, fellowship and fundraising.
The annual Ladies Piccadilly Gala is a fundraiser for the Downtown Branson Betterment Association, an organization
dedicated to the revitalization and economic growth of Historic Downtown Branson.
The exciting event includes a silent auction, a live auction, a delicious dinner and a ton of fun.
Held at the Branson Convention Center, this year’s theme is ‘80s Ladies, and attendees are encouraged to arrive in costume.
Media personalities Stan Bess of KY3 and Jim Barber from The Barber Shop on 98.1 FM will serve as masters of ceremonies for the 17th annual event. For more information, contact Jessica at the DBBA, 417-334-1548.
City announces new location for wall
Bransonmo.gov
The City of Branson announces a new location for the 2024 traveling Vietnam Veterans Memorial, soon to be unveiled at Fire Station #4, 250 Champagne Blvd., Branson. For nearly a quarter of a century, the people of the region have celebrated the ‘Vietnam Veterans Branson Wall’ during Veterans Homecoming Week in Branson, which takes place this year November 4-November 11, 2024. The Wall
had been on display at the former Welk Resort Branson Theatre; however, new owners with Hyatt Vacation Club chose to donate the Wall to the City of Branson.
“We are grateful to be the recipient of such a welcome gift,” said Branson Mayor Larry Milton. “The location of Fire Station #4 is a beautiful setting for such an impressive display,” said Milton, who explains the Memorial will eventually have a new permanent home at the Branson Police Department facility, now under construction, slated to open in late 2025.
The official half-scale
replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, modeled after the most visited memorial in Washington, D.C., spans nearly 240 feet in length and lists the more than 58,000 names of the nation’s fallen heroes in the Vietnam conflict.
Mayor Milton, along with area Veterans, will hold a ‘Welcome to Veterans Homecoming Week’ address, Monday, November 4, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. at Fire Station #4, 250 Champagne Blvd. The brief ceremony will be carried live on the City of Branson Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BransonCity
Roark Valley Modular Railroad Club hosts Train Flea Market Oct. 26
Submitted to Branson Globe
The Roark Valley Modular Railroad Club is excited to announce its first-ever Train Flea Market, to be held Saturday, October 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the lower level of the World’s Largest Toy Museum, 3609 W. 76
Country Blvd. in Branson. Train enthusiasts, collectors and hobbyists are invited to browse, buy or sell; there will be a wide array of model trains, railroad memorabilia and accessories. Whether you have items to sell or are looking for that
perfect addition to your collection, this event is a great opportunity to connect with fellow train lovers.
Attendees are encouraged to bring any train-related items they wish to sell. In addition, there will be experts on-site offering free appraisals, so this is
the perfect time to learn more about its history and value.
The Flea Market is not just for collectors; it is also a fun, educational experience for anyone wanting to explore the world of model trains. Whether you’re a seasoned hobbyist or just
Options Clinic banquet rallies community support for life
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
On Thursday evening, October 10, friends and supporters of Options Pregnancy Clinic filled the Great Hall at the Chateau on the Lake for the organization’s annual banquet, a special time of celebration of lives saved and changed over the past year, along with commitment to funding support for the coming year.
The spirit of giving and community around the area was evident as elected officials, community and business leaders, faith and nonprofit leaders, and many other friends and volunteers enjoyed a delicious dinner and heard exciting testimonies. Following a welcome by emcee and Options Advisory Council member Jason Robinson, Options Board President Marty Whited and Executive Director Laura Fogle introduced other staff and board members and recognized the many volunteers who help the Branson and Forsyth locations provide valuable services for moms and dads in unexpected preg-
nancy circumstances, with their babies.
Options is in their 31st year of providing services; so far in 2024, 133 babies have been born with 80 more due during the remainder of 2024 and early 2025. In addition, over 2,000 students in schools across Taney and Stone County receive valuable abstinence education and health education through Options during the school year. Options also partners with other area nonprofits through referrals to help parents improve their lives through education and community resource services.
Options Clinic offers free, confidential consultations; ultrasound services and limited screening services with medical referrals; adoption referrals; abortion pill reversal; valuable parent education and mentoring through Options Prep U and Dad Prep U; and assistance with supplies and essentials with support continuing for the baby’s entire first year of life. As part of the banquet festivities, attendees saw videos featuring client
families now enjoying a happy, healthy life with their child.
One testimonial featured a mom sharing that she considered abortion because she “didn’t want the child to suffer,” but was so glad she heard about Options and sought help. She said she was particularly impacted by the regular interaction with staff, who were always there to care and support her. “Every day, it’s a scripture or something you can really take with you,” she said. Following the testimonial, attendees were delighted to meet this beautiful mom in person as she walked onstage with her lovely children to enthusiastic applause.
Featured guest speaker for the evening was Mike G. Williams, who serves with his family in the Dominican Republic where they direct a mission reaching out to trafficked girls and feeding those living in garbage dumps. Although unexpected crisis pregnancies and comedy are not usually thought of together, Williams, who has recorded numerous come-
dy projects and authored 14 books, kept the audience laughing with his pithy comments about marriage, family, church, government and life in general, while making the point about the value of life by sharing his own personal adoption story and that of his son. All in attendance would definitely recommend checking out MikeWilliamsComedy.com or CupsMission.com.
Wrapping up the evening, attendees were given the opportunity to give a one-time gift or commit to a regular donation to help Options Clinic continue serving clients in Branson at 192 Expressway Lane, Suite 100; and in Forsyth at 10726 E. St. Hwy. 76, Suite F. If you missed the banquet, visit friendsofoptions.com to learn how you can help. There are also opportunities for businesses and individuals to help underwrite the annual banquet at various gift levels or help with other special events throughout the year. Who can possibly know the potential of each precious life that is saved!
getting started, this event is an opportunity to learn from others and discover the rich history of railroads. This event is free to attend and will be held in the parking lot of the World’s Largest Toy Museum, in front of the loading dock, American
Flag, and painting of a train breaking through the wall on the side of the building. For more information about the flea market, or the Club, contact Richard Grim, President, Roark Valley Modular Railroad Club, at 417527-2243 (text preferred).
info@turtlecreekbranson.com
www.turtlecreekbranson.com
Mike Williams was the featured speaker. (Photo provided by Options Pregnancy Clinic)
Reader’s Corner: Area history and stories at Nov. 14 Learning on Wednesday
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff
Writer
The Ozarks have a rich history and culture of storytelling, and as we experience the fall season, Kimberling Area Library is thankful for knowledgeable and talented local area speakers who tan-
talize and fascinate us with stories of the local area.
On Wednesday, November 14, join friends at Kimberling Area Library as Robert and Karlene McGill share about the history of Reeds Spring via storytelling. Their stories will help identify
“how we got here” from a farming community to over 2,000 people, including a strong educational presence through the excellent Reeds Spring school system.
The McGills are not new to Ozarks storytelling; they have authored or contributed
to several books including “Branson’s Entertainment Pioneers” and “In the Heart of Ozark Mountain Country.”
They were also the visionaries behind preserving traditional Ozarks music in new generations, starting with summer “fiddle camps” for
youth and continuing through what is now the successful and popular Ozark Mountain Music Association.
Don’t miss this informative and enjoyable gathering starting at 10:15 on Wednesday, November 13, in the Library Community
Room, 45 Kimberling Blvd. in Kimberling City. Coffee and light snacks are provided; attendance is FREE, and prior registration is not required.
Stay up to date on this and many other educational opportunities at www.kalib.org.
Cultivating community: Learning and growing with the Master Gardeners
BY LEEANN MONTALBANO, Out-
reach and Marketing Specialist at Library Center of the Ozarks
If you’ve passed by the Library Center of the Ozarks in downtown Branson recently, you likely noticed the colorful and vibrant flowers that adorn the property. These beautiful blooms are thanks to the labor and dedication of a group of hardworking volunteers known as the University of Missouri Extension Master Gardeners of the Ozarks.
The Master Gardeners have been working tirelessly for two years to maintain and enhance the gardens on
the library grounds, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all who visit. From planting native flowers and perennials to creating a thriving ecosystem where you can observe pollinators such as butterflies and hummingbirds, the Master Gardeners continue to beautify our community through their love of gardening. But their mission goes beyond just beautifying the city and fostering a healthy ecosystem: it’s about educating and empowering others to learn how to grow and care for plants in a sustainable way and sparking a
Continued from page 1A See photos with
Branson West Mayor, Nita Jane Ayres, was presented with the Trailblazer Award. This award recognizes an individual who has forged the path for others in the Table
Rock Lake area, has demonstrated invaluable leadership either in business or community development in the past (at least 10 years ago), and influenced the community in a positive manner. Mayor Ayres grew up in Stone County and is a strong propo-
love for gardening in future generations.
The group holds regular programs in the spring through fall months at the library to educate the community on a range of topics. Some of their popular programs include, “Cacti Crazy: Gardening for Kids!,” “Lifecycle of the Monarch Butterfly,” “Discovering Delightful Dahlias,” and “Funky Easy Things to Grow!”
With over 100 members, the Master Gardeners of the Ozarks are a diverse group with a shared passion for gar-
nent of our community. She has served on the boards of Table Rock Lake Community Foundation, Missouri State University Foundation and has chaired the grant committee for the Skaggs Foundation. She has worked as a realtor in the area for more than 30 years, and in 2010
dening. They come from all walks of life and bring unique perspectives and experiences to the table. But they all share one common goal: to make a positive impact on their community through horticultural education.
Master Gardener Mary O’Brien explains, “Being a Master Gardener allows me to combine my love for gardening with giving back to my community. It’s such a rewarding feeling when someone asks me for advice on their plants and I can share my knowledge with them.”
served as our area’s State Representative in the Missouri legislature. Mayor Ayres is known as a strong, honest and forward-thinking leader.
Carrie Padilla was the recipient of the evening’s most prestigious honor, the Community Service Award. This award is given to an
Master Gardener Marina Hanson adds, “My favorite part about being a Master Gardener is seeing the joy on people’s faces when they visit our gardens. It’s especially heartwarming when children get excited to see a butterfly or learn about different types of flowers.”
In addition, the Master Gardeners also host workshops and plant sales throughout the spring and fall. Through their hard work and dedication, the Master Gardeners also inspire future generations to embrace gardening and sustainable practices. They hope to spark
a love for nature and encourage others to take an active role in caring for our planet. “I love the camaraderie and sharing of knowledge. There’s always something new to learn in gardening, no matter your age or experience level, and I enjoy being a part of that learning process,” says Master Gardener Shanna Sullivan. Sign up for the library newsletter at LCOzarks. com/contact.
If you’d like to learn more about the Master Gardeners of the Ozarks, visit their website at www.mgozarks.org.
individual or an organization who, through unusual services and commitment, has improved one or more of the following: quality of life, economy, educational opportunities, beauty, serenity and safety. Carrie can be described as a professional volunteer: She is President of the Southern Stone County Fire Auxiliary; President of Unite Table Rock Lake; serves at Ignite Church and is a Rotarian. She connects resources to people’s needs. She has literally helped thousands of people through her selfless acts and leadership.
• RESORT
Continued from page 1A
we believe that we can continue to bring families closer together in an escape to laugh, have fun and maybe even scream together. Our country is stronger when families can come together and enjoy time together.”
The resort will be close to the other attractions owned by HFEC: White Water, Dolly’s Stampede, Showboat Branson Belle and The Pink Jeep Tours here in the area. Other properties that
Oh my goodness, we weren’t expecting much but this place blew us out of the water. Food was amazing, the staff was attentive and the atmosphere was perfect. – Amanda H.
are owned by the HFEC are Dollywood Parks & Resorts, Silver Dollar City Parks & Resorts, Silver Dollar City Campground, Adventure Aquarium, Newport Aquarium, Kentucky Kingdom and Wild Adventures, Herschend Live (Harlem Globetrotters) and Herschend Entertainment Studios (Splash & Bubbles and Chuggington). HFEC is recognized today as the largest family-owned themed attractions organization in the U.S., with ap-
prox. 11,000-plus employees across 26 properties that collectively entertain over millions of people annually.
Many generations have attended the park and continue to make it a part of their lives today. Many people have worked many years here and continue to be “family” after retiring.
I, myself, attended the park as a child, then in high school for “Band Days” and then was employed here. I still see people that I have worked with, and they always
ask me when I am going to come back to work with them. When I attended the announcement, I was greeted by several that I had worked with and still received my howdies and hugs from them; it’s truly family here! This is just the start of many exciting things coming to our area, and I look forward to many other things happening here. Continue to watch the development and announcements on the Facebook page and at the website, Silver Dollar City.
• LAKE SPLASH
‘If My People’: Prayer March and Worship
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
Saturday, October 19, was a day of Christian unity in Branson as worshipers gathered for the 2024 Branson Prayer March and Worship in the Streets. Marchers assembled in the Walmart parking lot on 76 Country Blvd. for a 3 p.m. start.
Following introductory remarks by Gena Hedgpeth, who serves as coordinator for the annual event, and opening prayer, the group made their way along “the strip” with prayer stops at the Aquarium at the Boardwalk and Walgreens. Several people driving by in cars, including many with out of state license plates, waved or honked in agreement.
The group then crossed to the Beyond the Lens parking lot for more prayer, praise and worship led by Ozark Worship Collective, interspersed with inspirational messages from several area pastors.
Participants were reminded of the roots of Christian history, which actually began in Israel, and of the importance of praying for Israel at this crucial time. The Ozarks region has a rich history of Christianity as well, and if we want to continue that legacy, we must devote ourselves to prayer for our families, churches, communities and nation.
Pastors speaking at the worship gathering fo-
cused on the key points of 2 Chronicles 7:14, “if My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land” (NIV).
“If My People” – Becoming part of God’s people is a choice.
• “Humble” – Jesus set the ultimate example of humility and obedience to God’s will for us to follow.
• “Pray” – Like the old gospel song says, “a little talk with Jesus” is what we need, daily and in all circumstances.
• “Seek My face” – Not just on Sunday mornings; seek God as one would seek a lost child.
“Turn” – Not just pointing at others, but recognizing and repenting of our own shortcomings. As we do those things, God tells us he will Hear, Forgive, and Heal.
Wrapping up the worship and messages, Pastor Jay Scribner reminded participants of the connection between “condition” (“if), “contrition” (turn), and “volition” (our will; God won’t force us). If we want to see real breakthrough in the challenges our homes and communities are facing, we must pray! To stay connected with others in the community by praying in unity, visit www.thecommunityprayerconnection.com and find a group near you, or follow the Branson Prayer March group on Facebook.
Recent Honor Flight includes 81 veterans, Arlington wreath ceremony
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff
Writer
Honor Flight of the Ozarks wrapped up a successful and meaningful 2024 flight season with a flight to Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, October 16. Eighty-one Missouri and Arkansas veterans were on board, including eight from the Korean conflict and 73 from Vietnam, along with a companion for each veteran and a team
of dedicated volunteers including medical staff.
This flight was made extra meaningful as the veterans on this trip were invited to participate in the wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. Theresa Suda, a board member of Honor Flight of the Ozarks who owns Rose Among Thorns flower shop in Springfield, made the
wreath and carried it on the plane to Washington.
Flight Coordinator David Snider said participation in this ceremony is an honor; the Ozarks group submitted their request last February, resulting in being approved for the October flight.
Honor Flight of the Ozarks is currently planning the 2025 flight season, with mission dates to be finalized and an-
nounced soon. Visit www. honorflightoftheozarks. org for information about nominating a veteran to participate, serving as a volunteer, or donating to help make sure every veteran is able to participate at no charge; guardians/ companions pay $500.
Any honorably discharged veteran who served during World War II, Korea, the Vietnam era, or the Gulf War era is eligible. You’ll also find information about special fundraising events throughout the season.
For many veterans, these flights are the acknowledgement of their sacrifice and courage that some never received upon returning home. For others, it is a welcome reminder that a grateful nation still appreciates them; and their gratitude and pride are evident as they re-enter the airport lobby to applause and ceremony after a full day.
“The thing I notice time after time are the returning veterans’ eyes,” said David McAllister, USN (Ret.), who serves as the
American Flag Bearer on the Color Guard provided by Veterans of the Ozarks for the Honor Flights. “Although they are at the end of a grueling 20-plus hour day, as I stand at attention presenting our great flag for them, there is this special radiant light, so intense it cannot be extinguished. It’s the light of patriotism and pride for a job well done long ago that continues on into today.”
The flights can also be an important educational opportunity, as families pass on to children and grandchildren the legacy of courage and pride in their loved ones’ service and American values and principles
Photos from this year’s Branson Prayer March (Photos by Cynthia J. Thomas)
Voters to decide on six proposed Constitutional Amendments on November 5
BY GARY J. GROMAN, Independent Journalist
The following ballot measures have been certified for the November 5, 2024, general election. On the actual ballot, you will see either “CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT” followed by a number or “PROPOSITION” followed by a letter. Immediately under that, it will show whether it was proposed by “Initiative Petition” or by the “102nd General Assembly.”
In this article, after the verbiage CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT or PROPOSITION line, we have indicated in (parentheses and italicized type) our take on what it applies to. There is no similar information on the ballot and the “Fair Ballot Language” explaining each in this Article, although on the Missouri Secretary of State website at https:// www.sos.mo.gov/elections/ petitions/2024BallotMeasures, does not appear on the ballot.
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT NO. 2
(Sports Wagering)
Proposed by Initiative Petition
Do you want to amend the Missouri Constitution to: Allow the Missouri Gaming Commission to regulate licensed sports wagering including online sports betting, gambling boats, professional sports betting districts and mobile licenses to sports betting operators; Restrict sports betting to individuals physically located in the state and over the age of 21; Allow license fees prescribed by the Commission and a 10% wagering tax on revenues received to be ap-
propriated for education after expenses incurred by the Commission and required funding of the Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund; and Allow for the general assembly to enact laws consistent with this amendment.
State governmental entities estimate onetime costs of $660,000, ongoing annual costs of at least $5.2 million, and initial license fee revenue of $11.75 million. Because the proposal allows for deductions against sports gaming revenues, they estimate unknown tax revenue ranging from $0 to $28.9 million annually. Local governments estimate unknown revenue.
___ Yes ___ No
Fair Ballot Language. Does not appear on the ballot.
A “yes” vote will amend the Missouri Constitution to permit licensed sports wagering regulated by the Missouri Gaming Commission and restrict sports betting to individuals physically located in the state and over the age of 21. The amendment includes a 10% wagering tax on revenues received to be appropriated for educational institutions in Missouri.
A “no” vote will not amend the Missouri Constitution regarding licensed regulated sports wagering. If passed, this measure will have no impact on taxes.
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT NO. 3
(Abortion Rights)
Proposed by Initiative Petition
Do you want to amend the Missouri Constitution to:
Establish a right to make decisions about reproduc-
tive health care, including abortion and contraceptives, with any governmental interference of that right presumed invalid; Remove Missouri’s ban on abortion;
Allow regulation of reproductive health care to improve or maintain the health of the patient;
Require the government not to discriminate, in government programs, funding, and other activities, against persons providing or obtaining reproductive health care; and allow abortion to be restricted or banned after Fetal Viability except to protect the life or health of the woman?
State governmental entities estimate no costs or savings, but unknown impact. Local governmental entities estimate costs of at least $51,000 annually in reduced tax revenues. Opponents estimate a potentially significant loss to state revenue.
___ Yes
___ No
Fair Ballot Language. Does not appear on the ballot.
A “yes” vote establishes a constitutional right to make decisions about reproductive health care, including abortion and contraceptives, with any governmental interference of that right presumed invalid; removes Missouri’s ban on abortion; allows regulation of reproductive health care to improve or maintain the health of the patient; requires the government not to discriminate, in government programs, funding, and other activities, against persons providing or obtaining reproductive health care; and allows abortion to be restricted or banned af-
ter Fetal Viability except to protect the life or health of the woman.
A “no” vote will continue the statutory prohibition of abortion in Missouri.
If passed, this measure may reduce local taxes while the impact to state taxes is unknown.
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT
NO. 5
(New casino near Lake of the Ozarks)
Proposed by Initiative Petition
Do you want to amend the Missouri Constitution to:
Allow the Missouri Gaming Commission to issue one additional gambling boat license to operate on the portion of the Osage River from the Missouri River to the Bagnell Dam;
Require the prescribed location shall include artificial spaces that contain water and are within 500 feet of the 100-year base flood elevation as established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency; and Require all state revenues derived from the issuance of the gambling boat license shall be appropriated to early-childhood literacy programs in public institutions of elementary education?
State governmental entities estimate one-time costs of $763,000, ongoing costs of $2.2 million annually, initial fee revenue of $271,000, ongoing admission and other fee revenue of $2.1 million annually, and annual gaming tax revenue of $14.3 million. Local governments estimate unknown revenue.
___ Yes ___ No
Fair Ballot Language. Does not appear on the ballot.
A “yes” vote will amend the Missouri Constitution to allow the Missouri Gaming Commission to issue an additional gambling boat license to operate an excursion gambling boat on the Osage River, between the Missouri River and the Bagnell Dam. All state revenue derived from the issuance of the gambling boat license shall be appropriated to early-childhood literacy programs in public institutions of elementary education.
A “no” vote will not amend the Missouri Constitution regarding gambling boat licensure.
If passed, this measure will have no impact on taxes.
CONSTITUTIONAL
AMENDMENT NO. 6
(Using Court Costs and fees to pay promised benefits to law enforcement personnel.)
Proposed by 102nd General Assembly
Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to provide that the administration of justice shall include the levying of costs and fees to support salaries and benefits for certain current and former law enforcement personnel?
State and local governmental entities estimate an unknown fiscal impact.
___ Yes
___ No
Fair Ballot Language. Does not appear on the ballot.
A “yes” vote will amend the Missouri Constitution to levy costs and fees to support salaries and benefits for current and former sheriffs,
prosecuting attorneys and circuit attorneys to ensure all Missourians have access to the courts of justice.
A “no” vote will not amend the Missouri Constitution to levy costs and fees related to current or former sheriffs, prosecuting attorneys and circuit attorneys. If passed, this measure will have no impact on taxes.
CONSTITUTIONAL
AMENDMENT NO. 7
(Allowing only U.S. Citizens to vote.)
Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to: Make the Constitution consistent with state law by only allowing citizens of the United States to vote;
Prohibit the ranking of candidates by limiting voters to a single vote per candidate or issue; and Require the plurality winner of a political party primary to be the single candidate at a general election?
State and local governmental entities estimate no costs or savings.
___ Yes ___ No
Fair Ballot Language. Does not appear on the ballot.
A “yes” vote will amend the Missouri Constitution to specify that only United States citizens are entitled to vote, voters shall only have a single vote for each candidate or issue, restrict any type of ranking of candidates for a particular office and require the person receiving the greatest number of votes at the primary election as a party candidate for an office shall be the only candidate for that party
Join the prayer, praise and pro-life rally November 2
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
With the November election just a few short weeks away, area faith leaders are urging Christians to pray, do their research, and be sure to get out and vote. A great way to spend time in prayer is in community with other believers, and on Saturday, November 2, residents and guests of Branson and surrounding communities have an opportunity to do just that, at the Prayer, Praise, Pro-life Election Rally from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The rally
will be held at Jerry Presley’s God and Country Theater, 1840 W. 76 Country Blvd. in Branson. The rally is sponsored by Proclaim Ministries, an area ministry led by Russ and Bev Eugenio. Bev Eugenio shared that as she personally prayed about the upcoming election, she kept thinking someone should do something to bring people together in prayer and worship, and the thought kept coming, “What about you?” Although at first hesitant, Eugenio started reaching out to
a few people, and as details began falling into place, she felt even more certainty that the rally would be the right thing to do.
For many Missourians, amendments to the state Constitution are a key issue, particularly Amendment 3 which would enshrine abortion as a Constitutional right with no restrictions and no safeguards in place. A featured speaker at the rally will be State Rep. Brian Seitz, who will share more details about the amendment’s language that will
not only strip away Missouri’s current protections for the unborn, at any stage of development, but also endanger parental rights, women’s sports, and much more. Seitz will also explain problematic aspects of the initiative petition process that makes it possible for a numeric majority rather than a true representative majority to force such issues onto the ballot. There will be prayer specifically addressing the deception causing some people to think the amendment simply deals
Before you go to the polls: Are you
Staff Reports
According to Missouri
Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, if you’re registered to vote in Missouri, you can vote! But who can register to vote in the state?
Who can register to vote?
In Missouri, you must:
Be a citizen of the Unit-
ed States
• Be a resident of Missouri
• Be at least 17-1/2 years old (you must be 18 to cast a ballot)
Not be on probation or parole after conviction of a felony, until finally
• AMENDMENTS
Continued from page 7A
at the general election, and require the person receiving the greatest number of votes for each office at the general election shall be declared the winner. This provision does not apply to any nonpartisan municipal election held in a city that had an ordinance in effect as of November 5, 2024, that requires a preliminary election at which more than one candidate
discharged from such probation or parole
Not be convicted of a felony or misdemeanor connected with the right of suffrage (voting)
Not be adjudged incapacitated by any court of law
• Not be confined to prison
In Missouri, the deadline to register to vote was October 9. Did you register?
You can check your status at https://voteroutreach. sos.mo.gov/portal/ When you get to the polls
advances to a subsequent election.
A “no” vote will not amend the Missouri Constitution to make any changes to how voters vote in primary and general elections.
If passed, this measure will have no impact on taxes.
PROPOSITION A (Increasing the minimum wage.)
Proposed by Initiative Petition Do you want to amend
You will need to show one of these forms of identification in order to get a ballot:
• A nonexpired Missouri driver or non-griver license
A nonexpired military ID, including a veteran’s ID card
• A nonexpired United States passport
Another photo ID issued by the United States or the state of Missouri
If you forget to bring one of these forms of ID with you to the polls but you are a registered voter,
Missouri law to:
Increase minimum wage January 1, 2025, to $13.75 per hour, increasing $1.25 per hour each year until 2026, when the minimum wage would be $15.00 per hour; Adjust minimum wage based on changes in the Consumer Price Index each January beginning in 2027; Require all employers to provide one hour of paid sick leave for every thirty hours worked;
you can cast a provisional ballot. Be sure to return to the polling place before the polls close with an acceptable ID so your vote will count.
Need help getting a free photo ID?
If you do not possess an acceptable form of photo ID, you might be eligible for a free Missouri nondriver license for voting purposes.
The Missouri Department of Revenue, through the license offices throughout the state, provides one nondriver license at no charge to Missourians who
Allow the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to provide oversight and enforcement; and Exempt governmental entities, political subdivisions, school districts and education institutions?
State governmental entities estimate one-time costs ranging from $0 to $53,000 and ongoing costs ranging from $0 to at least $256,000 per year by 2027. State and local government tax revenue could change by an unknown an-
with women’s healthcare. Along with Rep. Seitz and the Eugenios, community and faith leaders leading prayer or worship will include Rich and Anna Watson; Larry and Sandra Barnette; Jerry Presley; Deanna Duggar; Tammy Rodgers; Nyla, Shay and Brayla; Anita Cerce; Don Ford; Howard and Leanne Bailey; Tony and Brenda Krukow; Pastor Tom Willcox; Pastors Ken and Pam Rensink; Jessica Orsak; and “The Sons.”
Come join with friends, or make new ones, to praise
wish to obtain a photo ID for voting purposes (and do not already have one). Call 573-526-VOTE (8683) or visit https://dor. mo.gov/
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Bureau of Vital Records, can provide one fee exempt copy of a certified Missouri birth certificate to an individual seeking to obtain one free nondriver’s license in order to vote in Missouri if the applicant does not already have a current nondriver’s license or current driver’s license.
nual amount depending on business decisions.
___ Yes ___ No
Fair Ballot Language:
A “yes” vote will amend Missouri statutes to increase the state minimum wage beginning January 1, 2025 to $13.75 per hour and increase the hourly rate $1.25, to $15.00 per hour beginning January 2026. Annually the minimum wage will be adjusted based on the Consumer Price Index. The law will
and worship God and agree together in prayer for our state and nation during this pivotal time. Come for the entire rally, or stay for as much as you can and join in prayer from wherever you can. Admission for this important and powerful event is free, but donations will be accepted and patriotic jewelry and gifts available for purchase to help cover direct expenses. For any questions or for further information, call 417-598-3413 or email bev.proverbs31@ gmail.com.
Call (573) 751-6387 or email VitalRecordsInfo@ health.mo.gov
The Missouri Secretary of State will help you obtain official documents needed to get a Missouri nondriver license. Examples include birth certificate; marriage license; adoption decree; U.S. Department of State naturalization papers; or court order changing one’s name. We will pay for official documents from other states or the federal government.
To get more help, call 866868-3245 or email GoVoteMissouri@sos.mo.gov.
require employers with fifteen or more employees to provide one hour of paid sick leave for every thirty hours worked. The amendment will exempt governmental entities, political subdivisions, school districts and education institutions from the minimum wage increase. A “no” vote will not amend Missouri law to make changes to the state minimum wage law. If passed, this measure will have no impact on taxes.
Vote wisely: Demand honesty and integrity
BY RAMSEY SOLUTIONS
By this point in an election year, you might find yourself overwhelmed by politics—the advertisements, the polls, the news coverage. With all that noise, it’s easy for folks to come up with excuses for not voting — “America is too divided,” or “I can’t get behind any of the candidates,” or “My vote doesn’t even matter.”
Maybe those excuses are starting to sound pretty reasonable to you now. But as best-selling author and speaker Andy Andrews
pointed out in an interview with Dave, if we are concerned at all about our country and its future, we must pay attention to the election and use our votes wisely. We all agree: Our leaders should be honest
We’ve all watched America get meaner and meaner. We’ve watched Republicans and Democrats yell at each other, and no one’s changed anyone’s mind. But ask anyone, rich or poor, black or white, old or young, “Do you think it’s okay for politicians to lie, or should they tell the truth?” Every single person
you talk to will say our leaders should tell the truth.
“So the question in this election is not who is going to lead us, but what are our standards for being led?” Andrews asked in a recent visit to The Dave Ramsey Show. “Speaking the truth should be the least we require of our elected leaders,” he added. “It won’t solve all our problems, but it is a beginning.”
Demand integrity with your vote
“America is a ship headed for an iceberg,” Andrews warned. “People everywhere,
Voting locations in Stone County
ALPINE
VFW Post #2203
24204 State Hwy. 39,
CASS
FLAT CREEK A & B
W. State Hwy. 76,
GRANT Morningstar Baptist Church 69 Butterfield Trail Rd., Marionville
HURLEY Hurley City Hall 202 S. Walnut, Hurley
LINCOLN K-RAC 36655 State Hwy. 413, Crane
MCKINLEY/ PONCE DE
LEON
Galena - Abesville Preschool Room 54 Medical Springs Rd., Galena
PIERCE Christian Church Community Center 104 E. Edgewood, Crane
PINE A Blue Eye Lions Club Community Building 138 State Hwy. EE, Blue Eye
Voting locations in Taney County
BOSTON
regardless of their political views, can sense it. We may not have candidates in this election who can turn the ship around. But right now, we better vote for somebody who is going to shift our direction and avoid the iceberg.”
This isn’t about Republican versus Democrat. It’s about demanding honesty and integrity from our leadership—and rewarding that integrity with our votes. That’s how we will elect leaders who will have the fortitude to make the hard decisions that must be made to change course.
PINE B
Sourth Road & Bridge Shop 203 County Shop Rd., Lampe
RUTH A
Reeds Spring High School
Band Room 20277 State Hwy. 413, Reeds Spring
RUTH B CITY
Kimberling Area Library 45 Kimberling Blvd., Kimberling City
Your vote can change our direction
As our nation celebrated its 100th birthday, President James A. Garfield said, “Now, more than ever before, the people are responsible for the character of their Congress. If that body be ignorant, reckless and corrupt, it is because the people tolerate ignorance, recklessness and corruption. If it be intelligent, brave and pure, it is because the people demand these high qualities to represent them in the national legislature. If [one hundred years from now] our next centennial does not find
RUTH B RURAL
St. Andrew Presbyterian Church 30 James River Rd., Kimberling City
RUTH C Ignite Church 19585 State Hwy. 413, Branson West
RUTH C RURAL/SUNSET COVE
Indian Point Municipal Center 957 Indian Point Rd., Branson
4385 State Hwy. 176, Merriam Woods
MT. BRANSON Tantone Industries 1629 E. State Hwy. 76, Branson
District 6733 E. State Hwy. 76, Kirbyville
MARK TWAIN
Mark Twain School 37707 US Hwy. 160, Rueter
MERRIAM WOODS Del Showers Community Building
NORTH BRANSON Branson High SChool Activity Center 935 Buchanan Rd., Branson
ROCKAWAY BEACH Bridge of Faith Community Church 296 Lake St., Rockaway Beach
us a great nation… it will be because those who represent the enterprise, the culture and the morality of the nation do not aid in controlling the political forces.”
In short, if you want leadership with integrity, then stop trusting people who lie “for our own good.” “We can change the direction of our country,” Andrews said. “But only if smart people will get involved in the election process and actually vote.”
Voting is one key way to help turn this country around.
UNION Union City Community Church
3886 State Hwy. K, Billings
WASHINGTON Stone County Library 322 State Hwy. 248, Galena
WILLIAMS Shell Knob Shrine Club
28149 Big Rock Rd., Shell Knob
WALNUT SHADE Brookside Church
10123 US Hwy. 160, Merriam Woods
CHECK YOUR VOTER REGISTRATION: https://voteroutreach.sos. mo.gov/portal/
How voting before Election Day became so widespread and so political
Apnews.com | Robert Yoon Voters had plenty to argue about in the 1972 election, but they overwhelmingly agreed that when it came time to vote, they would do so in person on Election Day.
The act of voting was largely a communal experience that year, when roughly 95% of voters went to their local polling places and completed and submitted their ballots in person on a single day, according to a census survey at the time.
That number would fall gradually over the next 50 years as states provided Americans with more options on how and when to vote.
By 2022, only about half of the electorate voted at the polls on Election Day. The share of people voting before Election Day spiked to more than 70% in 2020, and votes cast by mail surpassed those cast on Election Day for the first time ever. That year, many states enacted emergency measures to temporarily expand voteby-mail options to protect voters from the spread of COVID-19.
“We’ve been on an upward trend of early voting over time as more states have adopted early voting options and voters have embraced them,” said University of Florida political science professor Michael
McDonald, who tracks voter turnout and early voting.
“That’s resulted in a greater share of early votes being cast each election cycle.”
For most of that time, advance voting was a nonpartisan feature of elections, but a deep chasm formed between the parties on advance voting during and since the 2020 presidential election.
Voting before Election Day is much more common today than it was roughly 50 years ago. Yet it is highly politicized as voting in the 2024 presidential election is already underway. What is advance voting?
Advance voting refers to the range of options that people have to vote before Election Day, whether by mail or in person at an election facility.
The term “early voting” can refer collectively to all voting that takes place before Election Day. Sometimes it refers explicitly to votes cast in person at local election offices or voting centers before Election Day.
To avoid confusion, The Associated Press generally uses terms like “advance voting” or “pre-Election Day voting” to refer to that broader category and “early in-person voting” for the narrower one. “Absentee voting” usually refers to ballots cast by mail. What are the different
types of advance voting?
Voting before Election Day includes both voting by mail and in-person voting conducted before Election Day.
Early in-person voting tends to mimic the experience of voting in person on Election Day, down to the type of voting equipment used and the locations serving as voting centers. The main difference is that the voting is conducted before Election Day. The length of early in-person voting periods varies by state.
Mail voting can be further divided into at least two smaller categories: “no-excuse absentee voting,” where any voter may request a mail ballot for any reason, and “excuse-required absentee voting,” where only voters with a valid excuse as to why they cannot vote in person on Election Day may vote by mail.
Requiring an excuse to vote absentee, such as travel or illness, used to be the norm in most states. Today, a shrinking handful of states still require voters to provide an authorized excuse.
A third category of mail voting is a hybrid of mail voting and early in-person voting: in-person absentee voting, where a voter submits (and sometimes fills out) a mail ballot in person at an elections office.
A small but growing number of states conduct their elections predominantly by mail. Those states, plus a few others and the District of Columbia, automatically send every registered voter a ballot.
When did advance voting begin?
Variations of absentee voting and voting over multiple days have been part of American elections since the nation’s founding. Today’s system of mail voting and early in-person voting took root more than a century ago. In 1921, Louisiana paved the way for a formalized early in-person voting system when its constitution specified that “the Legislature may provide a method by which absentee voting will be permitted other than by mail.”
Voting by mail is even older, but relatively few voters were allowed to take advantage of it as of 1972. Just two years later, Washington became the first state in the nation to allow any voter to request a mail ballot for any reason.
By 2005, more than half the states adopted no-excuse absentee voting. Today, only Alabama, Mississippi and New Hampshire provide neither early in-person voting nor no-excuse absentee voting.
Does one political party use advance voting more than the other?
Yes, but it wasn’t always that way.
Voting before Election Day steadily grew more popular in both Democratic and Republican-controlled states after 1972. Although there was a partisan split in some states that sometimes varied from election to election, polling from Gallup shows that nationwide there was little partisan divide on advance voting between
2004 and 2016. But the survey showed that voters’ plans to use early voting sharply diverged along party lines in the 2020 presidential election.
AP’s VoteCast survey of the 2020 electorate found a similar result, with additional details on how the choice of voting method divided the electorate. About twothirds of the votes cast by mail in that election were for Democrat Joe Biden, compared with about onethird for Republican President Donald Trump. In contrast, Trump won about two-thirds of the in-person Election Day vote, compared with about one-third for Biden.
When it came to early in-person voting, there was a near-even split, with Trump having only the slightest advantage.
Biden overperformed among those casting votes before Election Day, especially among mail-in voters, even in many states that Trump won by a wide margin, VoteCast showed.
“This is just an acrossthe-board, national phenomenon,” McDonald said.
These patterns continued in the 2022 midterm elections, with Democrats accounting for the bulk of the mail vote, Republicans casting most of the Election Day vote and Republicans holding a small advantage in early in-person voting.
McDonald noted that party behavior on pre-Election Day voting was, if anything, the opposite before 2020.
“People who voted by mail tended to be more Republican than the people who voted in-person early,” he said, but those patterns “were suddenly turned upside down”
during the pandemic. What led to the partisan split in advance voting?
During the 2020 election, Trump repeatedly disparaged, politicized and undermined mail voting, going as far as to block funding to the U.S. Postal Service to thwart its ability to process mail ballots he claimed without evidence were susceptible to widespread tampering.
Trump’s messaging on mail balloting has been somewhat inconsistent. At times he has said “absentee voting” is “ good. ” But he also has claimed that mail voting is ripe for fraud, something not borne out by decades of mail voting conducted in every state. Trump himself has cast mail ballots on multiple occasions, including in the 2020 primaries.
Trump’s rhetoric seems to have taken a toll on Republican confidence in mail voting. An AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll conducted in 2023 found that 58% of Republicans were not very or not at all confident that mail votes would be counted accurately, compared with 32% in 2018. Among Democrats, confidence in the counting of mail ballots increased, from 28% saying they were very or extremely confident in 2018 to 52% in 2023. What will advance voting look like in 2024?
“We need to wait and see how 2024 plays out before we make definitive statements about what the early voting is telling us” about the election, McDonald said. Absentee voting in some states began as early as mid-September, and more than half the states had begun some type of voting by Oct. 1.
Local treasure changes her address
BY LAURI LEMKE THOMPSON, Columnist
The greater Branson area lost a treasure last month when Pat Kershaw changed her address from Taneyville, Missouri 65759, to a place I will call “Face-to-Face with her Savior, Heaven” (no zip code necessary).
“I feel privileged that I got to spend time with such an incredible person,” I emailed a friend after learn-
ing of Pat’s September passing at age 90. “She had the ability to combine humor, raw honesty and love.”
At her recent memorial service, Woodland Hills Family Church Pastor Rex Childress said, “She never lost that sparkle, did she?” He praised her as a “spunky, special lady who gave a lifetime of service. What a legacy!” With her husband Max, Pat served International Students,
Inc. (ISI) for 30 years. The Christian organization was formed to reach out to college students from around the world who come to the U.S. to study. ISI befriends those students, helps them with U.S. culture and shares the Gospel with them. While the couple was living in England, Max passed away. Then Pat returned to the states, first living in Colorado where the mission has its headquar-
ters, then about 20 years ago choosing the Branson area because family lives here.
But by no means was losing Max the end of her service to ISI. Pat continued helping ISI for another 30 years; that’s 60 years total! As a gifted writer, she wrote staff manuals and also poured encouragement into countless staff – in person and through letters. Pat had the heart of a mentor –
and mentor people she did, whether it was through ISI or just people she met.
About now, I am sensing Pat’s voice chiding me for putting her on a pedestal. Okay, Pat, I “hear” you, but I am going to honor you anyway. Other than my husband, I never met anyone who a) demonstrated such interest in me; b) expressed so much confidence in me
Kershaw (Photo submitted)
SEE KERSHAW, PAGE 3B
pinion
First Amendment to the United States Constitution Congress shall make no law respecting an establishement of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
ROB DOHERTY Publisher (504) 583-8907 robd@bransonglobe.com
JANET STEINKAMP Editor editor@bransonglobe.com
GARY J. GROMAN Independent Journalist
ROSE BUCKLES Freelance Writer/Bilingual Rosebuckles1999@gmail. com
KIM CHAPPELL Ad Designer gabbydor210@gmail.com
THIS POSITION IS OPEN! SEE OUR AD IN THE CLASSIFIEDS Stone Co. Account Rep.
MARK FEDER Taney Co. Account Rep. (805) 320-3746 shotgunart@yahoo.com
JOHN FULLERTON Area Historian cowboyclub1994@gmail.com
LUANNA FULLERTON Entertainment Writer bransonglobeluanna@ gmail.com
When voters go to the polls on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, they will not only be voting for president, governor and other local political positions but on six (6) separate proposals to change the Missouri State Constitution. These proposals cover a myriad of topics, including Sports Wagering, Abortion Rights, a new casino near Lake of the Ozarks, using court costs and fees to pay promised benefits to law enforcement personnel, allowing only U.S. Citizens to vote, and increasing the minimum wage.
The precise wording and “Fair Ballot Language” for each are in an article entitled “Voters to decide on six proposed Constitutional Amendments on November 5,” appearing in our “Election Guide.” In this column, in order of importance to him, the Ole Seagull will list
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer
When I spend time on weekends reading Proverbs, I can’t help noticing that many of them make positive references to growing older. Proverbs 16:31, for example, tells us, “Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained by living a godly life” (NLT). Other proverbs advise younger people to
BY JOSHUA HESTON StateoftheOzarks Media & Design
T
he elm leaves are talking in this afternoon breeze, whispering unknown things, things sad in the hot autumn sun. Elms are a story of heartbreak and forgotten loss. No one sees great elms anymore, all but a few having been wiped out by disease. Oh, there are still plenty of elms but all are young, untested, mistaken for scrubby undergrowth. Their grandness has
BY TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer
An Ole Seagull on abortion rights and other proposed Constitutional changes
each, with, for what it matters, his opinion on each:
CONSTITUTIONAL
AMENDMENT NO. 3
(Abortion Rights)
Currently, Missouri Law relating to abortion states, “Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, no abortion shall be performed or induced upon a woman, except in cases of medical emergency.” It defines “Medical Emergency,” as “a condition which, based on reasonable medical judgment, so complicates the medical condition of a pregnant woman as to necessitate the immediate abortion of her pregnancy to avert the death of the pregnant woman or for which a delay will create a serious risk of substantial and irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function of the pregnant woman.”
It is one of the most stringent abortion bans in the country and makes no exception for situations such as rape or incest. In an Ole Seagull’s opinion, the lack of an exception for rape and incest is unconscionable and, if it passes, will be the reason it does so.
CONSTITUTIONAL
AMENDMENT NO. 6
(Using Court Costs and fees to pay promised benefits to law enforcement personnel.) Since 1983, part of the levies and fees paid in each court case were used to fund and support salaries and benefits for current and former sheriffs and law enforcement officials, including their retirement. A 2021 Missouri Supreme Court ruling found the fees unconstitutional. The Missouri General Assembly put Amendment 6 on the ballot to reverse that decision and allow the legislature to fund benefits for the state’s 114 elected county sheriffs or their surviving spouses by collecting a $3 fee per case, resulting in “guilty pleas or verdicts.”
These sheriffs and law enforcement personnel served the public faithfully with the promise of this funding for their retirement, and many, including retired 20year Taney County Sheriff Jimmy Russell, rely on this funding for their retirement. There is no tax involved. The only source of funds comes from those involved with a “guilty plea or verdict” in a court proceeding.
To an Ole Seagull, this is a matter of honor. They lived up to their promise to “serve and protect,” now, it’s our turn to live up to our promise to provide the funds for their retirement.
CONSTITUTIONAL
AMENDMENT NO. 7
(Only U.S. Citizens can vote.)
A “yes” vote will amend the Missouri Constitution to specify that only United States citizens are entitled to vote (#1).
To an Ole Seagull, this is a no-brainer: “Non-citizens should not be entitled to vote.”
CONSTITUTIONAL
AMENDMENT NO. 2
(Sports Wagering)
CONSTITUTIONAL
AMENDMENT NO. 5
(New casino near Lake of the Ozarks)
It’s a constant source of amazement to an Ole Seagull that it’s legal to gamble “day trading” or buy and sell stock, gambling on whether they will appreciate or depreciate in value, but illegal to “gamble.” If an individual or community’s moral fiber is impacted by either of these measures, then it wasn’t much to start with in the first place.
PROPOSITION A
(Increase minimum wage) If passed, the minimum wage will increase to $13.75 per hour on January 1, 2025, increasing $1.25 per hour each year until 2026, when it will be $15.00 per hour. In addition, the amendment will require employers with fifteen or more employees to provide one hour of paid sick leave for every thirty hours worked. It will exempt governmental entities, political subdivisions, school districts and education institutions from the minimum wage increase. Employers hire people, they don’t adopt them! Employers offer a position with remuneration consistent with their business needs and resources. Prospective employees are able to accept or reject that offer. It’s interesting to note that “governmental entities, political subdivisions, school districts and education institutions” are exempt from the amendment’s requirements. (#1) In this proposal, as in most, there is usually more than the publicized issue involved, and the ballot language must be read carefully.
Reflections: Older and more compassionate
listen carefully and honor their elders’ advice.
The Bible also emphasizes the importance of passing on wisdom and learned experience to future generations. I was recently privileged to chat with Robb Dunham of 3 Generations Ministries, whom I met at the Assemblies of God Senior Adult Ministries Conference, and to write an article about the importance of grandparents in children’s lives and grandparenting ministry in the local church.
Researching that topic led to thinking about how my own life has been impacted by the wisdom of parents and grandparents, both in spiritual and practical ways. I saw my dad model daily Bible
been lost, but yet the leaves continue to talk of sad things in the warm air, now, at the end of October, now, at the end of all things.
The sterile white space, the shuttered room, is quiet save for hushed voices and the beeping sounds of foreign equipment in muted notes of mauve and gray. Here, the space is one of last breaths and no second chances. The autumn breeze, the vibrancy of life, the texture of all things good, seem a million miles away, even if only separated by a thick pane of glass and a cheap set of plastic blinds. The world turns in quiet space.
Cold night rain beats hard against the clapboard siding, peeling blue and faded behind autumn-dead hydrangea. The hydrangea was planted de-
Wait on the LORD: Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. Psalm 27:14
Before I married my wonderful husband, Aaron, I spent several years as a single mom. During that time, I had to learn how to stand on my own two feet
reading, prayer and faithfulness even when things weren’t easy. Grandpa Jim said to “eat an egg every day, two if you can afford them.” Decades before packaged electrolyte blends, my uncle taught me watermelon with salt on it was a good snack when you were sweating.
As I have researched, thought and wrote, I have realized anew that it’s a privilege and a responsibility not only to support my adult children in their parenting but also to be actively invested in the lives of my grandchildren, passing on things I’ve learned. One way I believe I have grown spiritually as I’ve grown older, and hope to teach the grandkids, is in the area of compassion. The
cades ago by loving hands and a heart that could not see a future without love. The little shotgun house was once beloved, nurtured, carefully tended in days when a house with three whole rooms and a tiny plot of land was a prize, not a downfall to be escaped. Heat streams through battered old screens, open windows in the cold night. The smell of turkey TV dinner and ramen is on the air. Smiling plastic Jack-o-Lantern gazes over weathered blue astroturf on broken cement porch. Cold rain puddles on the street reflect the smiling orange glow. Despite the angry shouting within, the loving gardener long gone still haunts the front walk. Somewhere, somehow, it is still summer and the hydrangeas bloom
in many ways. I found out that I was better at it than I had ever imagined I would be, which strengthened my will when it came to taking care of myself and my kids. But there were also those innumerable moments when my strength completely failed, and I was left crying out to God for a helpmate in
longer we live, the more tough stuff we see and experience, and the more understanding we can show others. The Apostle Paul speaks to that concept in 2 Corinthians 1:4, saying God “comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God” (NIV).
I didn’t understand how people felt going through cancer—until I had cancer. Now, I get it; I pray; I ask God to show me what to say and when. (Trust me, there are better and worse times to unload on someone about dietary changes or that supplement you sell.) I have “rolled my eyes out loud” at behaviors characteristic of rural pover-
blue once more. Back in the afternoon sun, a little black cur dog with blazing autumn collar stops to sniff the air. Beyond in the cedars the air is blue with strange afternoon mist. The wind picks up again. The veil thins. Christ thorn locust trees bear witness. Ancestors peer forth through the ether, whispers, prayers, soft and loving, questioning, challenging. The little black cur dog bolts past, her tail a blur of happy motion. The veil fades along with faces weathered and wise in the air, faces of the past.
ty—until my husband spent years teaching in that context, and I began to understand the spiritual and emotional hold it can have on families. Now I support organizations that truly address root causes and make a difference. The list goes on. Losing a sibling has helped me bond more compassionately in prayer with others experiencing that loss. Reaping consequences of an ill-timed financial misstep helps me sympathize with others who make a bad choice. You get the idea. There’s a saying, “You can let hard times make you bitter, or make you better.” My prayer is that I allow my years to continue to add more understanding and compassion.
The heavy cotton blanket is soft, hexagonal texture worried between elderly fingers purpled by age and hesitant, picking at the folds, picking over and over again. The room still sterile, still quiet, still unnaturally quiet. All the ages and all the lost hopes are drawn to this final, fitful breath, battle against time, battle before the passing to beyond. There are huddled family tears outside in the too-bright hall. An aide turns way, fighting emotion. Professional duty prevents such a show of humanity. Another life, another death, another little notice in the obit section, and nothing more. The sun and the rain and the wind and the hope and the prayer, eternal regrets and dreams, they all continue, a heartbeat of meaning forever on in witness to those who have gone before.
life. It’s always been difficult for me to ask for help, and though I got help from so many amazing people during that time, I still made every effort to do things on my own so I didn’t have to “inconvenience” anyone. Pride probably had a lot to do with it if I’m being completely honest.
Outside, a single brown elm leaf falls softly, silently, to the carefully mown and brown October grass.
Then Aaron – a man who refuses to let chivalry die –came into my life. One of the things he insisted on from the very beginning was that he open doors for me. Every door. All the time. This was a bit of a foreign concept to me so it took some getting used to, especially when he SEE TIFFANY, PAGE 3B
BY HEATHER HAYGOOD Columnist
“If it costs you your peace, it’s too expensive.”
-Paulo Coelho
Autumn is a peaceful season. The days are shorter, the trees slowly shed their leaves, and we
BY EVANGELIST TIM KIDWELL, Branson Church of Christ
According to Merriam Webster, to benefit “at the expense of” is to benefit as a result of someone or something being harmed. A Christian should easily understand that anything done “at the expense of” another violates the Lord’s instruction to “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you (Lk. 6:31). Simple enough, right? But many who are quick to recall this
wanted to open my car door when we would arrive at a destination. In fact, it took months for me to learn to sit there waiting for him to walk around the car and “let me out” rather than immediately bursting out of the door as soon as the car was in park. There were several times when I’d get out of the car only to see him standing
• KERSHAW
Continued from page 1B
and my writing and c) said positive things that will stick with me the rest of my life.
Also, dear Pat, if even one reader is inspired to follow their own calling to serve God because of your example, you’d give me your stamp of approval on this article.
“She served so diligently and fruitfully,” said Seng Tan, president of ISI who attended the memorial. “I met Pat when I was fresh out of graduate school, and I learned so much from her. She had a deep well of wisdom and humor.”
He likened her to Sarah in the Bible (Abraham’s wife).
God changed Sarai’s name to Sarah, which means “mother of nations.” And He promised Abraham that their descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky.
“Like Sarah, Pat mothered spiritual children and helped them grow,” he said. “Then they had spiritual children who did the same. Also, think of all the staff she mentored through the decades; they led still others to Christ. I believe Pat’s offspring are like sand at the beach, or stars in the sky.”
He reminded us that God put Sarah in His Hebrews 11 “Faith Hall of Fame.” And I hereby put Pat Kershaw in my personal “faith hall of fame.”
When doctors told me I needed a painful nerve test and that I might be facing three surgeries, Pat told me “You’ll do fine, Lauri.” I noted she didn’t say “You’ll BE fine, just that I would DO fine.” In other words, because she knew my faith, she believed in my ability to deal with it, come what may. When I decided to write a book, Pat was my biggest
find ourselves lingering under the covers a little longer as the mornings are cooler from a later sunrise. I am a firm believer in taking cues from nature and adapting our lives to be more compatible with the season. My workouts are more rhythmic and restorative, and I intentionally do cardio outdoors to take advantage of either the sunrise or sunset. Nature provides a different variety of food, and our family eats with the season as well. We put away our bathing suits, wake
Have you benefitted at someone else’s expense? Peace
passage when they are the ones being harmed, become inconsistent in application when they stand to benefit greatly.
Consider the following scenario of benefiting “at the expense of” harm to another.
By God’s definition of life (conception, Psa. 139:13-16; Jer. 1:5), abortion does what God hates; sheds the blood of the innocent (Prov. 6:17).
Abortion is therefore murder.
1. A woman decides to have her human baby murdered (abortion) = sin.
2. Does this woman approve of murder?
Does accountability stop here?
1. The Doctor agrees to commit murder of the human baby (abortion) for money.
there – arms crossed, toe tapping the pavement and kindly saying, “You forgot again.” As a self-empowered woman, that extra fifteen seconds of waiting almost made my head explode, and I couldn’t understand why he so adamantly insisted on this gesture. However, as the months went on, I came to enjoy those extra few moments, knowing that it was an out-
cheerleader. At my request, she read every chapter and provided valuable input.
Then after it was published, she declared, “You’re not done, Lauri. You have a lot more to say, so keep on writing. Promise me.” I promised her, so now I have no choice!
“Problems just made her stronger,” a grandson shared. “Her body was wilting, but not her spirit. She was still so fervent these last years and months.”
Here’s what Pat wrote in her newsletter to friends just a couple months ago: “The word hospice has a serious connotation. For me, the word brought something surprising; I’m okay! I’m good with it, ready for the end process. We don’t know what this phase of life is like until we’re there.
“I’m discovering that it’s our choice, and I didn’t
boards and water toys and exchange them for hiking boots, bikes and firelit evenings.
Nature is releasing last season’s growth and preparing to welcome new growth in the spring. I remind myself and my children to let go of things that might hold us back in the future. We must make room for the new. If any experience takes away from your peace, it is too expensive. Nature is reminding us to embrace release and choose peace.
Autumn reminds me that
2. Is the Doctor guilty of contributing to the sin of this mother?
3. Does the Doctor approve of murder?
Is this where the line of accountability stops?
1. The pharmaceutical company is desirous of receiving tissue from murdered babies for experimental purposes.
2. The pharmaceutical company makes an agreement with the Doctor to purchase human baby remains for scientific testing.
3. The pharmaceutical company did not commit the murder of the baby.
4. Is the pharmaceutical company guilty of contributing to the death of the human baby?
ward expression of the deep love and respect that he had for me. It also gave me a little extra time to finish up my lipstick or that last sip of coffee.
I’ll admit that on days when I’m in a time crunch or have a lot on my mind, I still forget to wait for him – much to his dismay. Am I perfectly capable of opening my own door? Of course, but in my hustle to
know that I was going to react with peace, contentment, happiness and looking forward to what is coming next.
“Of course, I am feeling this way because of my absolute total assurance of where I’m headed. The Word of God, with which I
nothing is permanent, that change is coming, and that I need to shed any excess to make way for the new. How are you preparing for the new year? What things have been a burden to you? Who do you need to forgive? How successful do you want to be in the new year? Your brain can only maintain so much focus. If you are cycling thoughts of unforgiveness, anger, resentment, you will be distracted from accomplishing the goals you have set for yourself in the
5. Does this pharmaceutical company approve of murder?
Is this where the line of accountability stops?
1. The scientists perform tests with the remains of the murdered human baby.
2. Are those scientists guilty of contributing to the sin of the mother?
3. Are those who knowingly experiment with the remains of the murdered baby guilty of contributing to the death of the child?
4. Do these scientists approve of murder?
Is this where the line of accountability stops?
1. Medicines containing remains of the murdered human baby are injected/
get things done I often neglect the chance to receive my husband’s simple gesture of his enormous love for me. When this happened once recently, it made me think about how I often treat God the same way. As soon as I wake up and my feet hit the floor, I want to tackle everything on my list with all the “I-am-woman-hearme-roar” power I can muster (and my energy usually
am very familiar, gives all the assurance I need.”
One of the writing lessons Pat emphasized with me was the following: say what you want to say using the least number of words possible – and then stop. Okay, Pat. I’ll stop. The end.
coming year. You must let go of old things that are not in alignment with who you would like to become. Excessive focus drains the focus circuits in your brain, exhausts your energy making you lethargic and confused. Repetitive negative thoughts can lead to cognitive decline and focusing on criticism and cynical thought encourages sadness. Embrace this season of letting go by releasing things that no longer serve you. Give yourself
ingested into other humans to prevent sickness/ death.
2. Are those who knowingly accept a medicine, developed from the remains of a murdered human baby, guilty of contributing to the death of the human baby?
3. Do those who accept these medicines approve of murder? Where does accountability end?
Some may ask, “But could not this process be fairly compared to the harvesting of organs from an accident/ murder victim?” The United States’ system for organ procurement operates under a model of expressed consent. This means that an individual will not be an organ donor
putters out at some point). All the while, God is standing there – arms crossed, toe tapping the pavement and kindly saying, “You forgot again.” Yes, in my preoccupation with getting things done, I forget that my Heavenly Father wants to strengthen my heart and show me the deep love he has for me. It may take a few extra minutes to sit
a chance to maximize growth this year.
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:”
Ecclesiastes 3:1
If you have been enjoying my articles, please visit hshaygood.com and click The Love Journey tab to order your copy of my new book and sign up for my inspirational emails. I keep emails fresh and different from my weekly Globe articles.
unless he or she explicitly states otherwise (AMA Journal of Ethics). Organs are not taken from those who die unless they have given consent while living. Is harvesting from the murdered (aborted) babies an equal comparison? Definitely not! The organs from those babies are taken without their consent. How much time must pass and how many people must be involved before the process of benefiting at the expense of harm to others is no longer tainted? If an innocent person is purposefully harmed in an act that is intended to bring benefit for the greater good of society it is not a moral act. It is Hedonism! It is SIN! And all who approve of it are accountable.
down and soak up His presence and let Him speak to me through His word. However, those moments infuse every subsequent moment with the assurance that I am dearly loved and that I never have to do life on my own. Wait on Him to open the door, “....and He shall strengthen thy heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.”
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 began your plan a few months ago. We love the process of living on a budget, and how it has helped us gain control of our finances. Our kids are 14 and
DR. RICHARD BAKER, AIF®, is the founder of and an executive wealth advisor at Fervent Wealth Management. https://www. facebook.com/Dr.RichardBaker
If it weren’t for Facebook, I’d never know my friends’ anniversaries or birthdays. Having an anniversary or birthday might be the only good thing about Facebook. Since the stock market doesn’t have a social media account, it’s up to me to tell you we have a big an-
BY HEATHER TANKERSLEY, REALTOR®, provides services for residential, commercial, land and lake properties in the Branson Tri-Lakes area.
Since the supply of homes for sale is growing and
Dave Says: Can they handle it?
13 now. Do you think it’s a good idea to include teenagers in budget meetings and financial discussions?
Paula Dear Paula, This is a great question! As long as you’re not in an extreme situation, like you’re looking at foreclosure or bankruptcy, or you’re on the opposite end of the spectrum sitting on a pile of wealth, I think it’s a wonderful idea. Teaching kids about money with a standard, regular, monthly budget is one thing. But as a parent, you don’t want to put your kids into situations they aren’t emotionally equipped to handle.
As long as Mom and Dad are having a discussion and making decisions—not fighting—it’s good for kids to hear the give and take where handling money is concerned. Parents who never let their kids handle money, and never teach them proper money management techniques, run a high risk of turning financially irresponsible adults loose in the world. And that’s no good for anyone. But walking through a typical, normal budget will show them how much money is coming in and how much things cost. They’ll see on paper exactly how much
groceries or the electric bill costs. Then, when it’s right there in front of their eyes, they’ll begin to realize why Mom and Dad always tell them not to waste food, and to turn off the lights when they leave a room!
— Dave
***
Dave Says: Hang around for benefits?
Dear Dave, I am currently serving in the military, and I’m not sure I like the life, or what I’m doing, as much as I did a few years ago. Recently, I was approached with some exciting opportunities outside the military in a differ-
ent field. I’m not sure what to do. Do you think I should make plans to take advantage of these new opportunities, or should I stick with the military and receive full benefits when I’m eligible to retire in 10 years?
William
Dear William, There are people who absolutely love the military. It makes a great career for some folks, and I think that’s awesome. God bless them— and you—for serving their country that way. But whether you’re in the military or a civilian, I think you should do what you love doing. If you were just a few
months away from retirement, I’d probably tell you to bear down and tough it out. That way, it wouldn’t be too long before you could explore the new opportunities and have a nice pension coming in. But 10 years is a long time to do anything when your heart’s not in it. Long story short? If you love it, stay. If you don’t, get out. Serving in the armed forces is voluntary, and in a sense, that makes it a little like other jobs. Regardless, hanging around for a decade in a job where you’re miserable just to collect benefits? That’s not a good plan. — Dave
Stock Market Insights: A bull market anniversary
niversary to celebrate.
October 12 was officially the second anniversary of this bull market. I’m not describing the local cattle market (if you are curious, it has the October Feeder Cattle at 245). No, the bull market anniversary I’m describing is the stock market, which has been rising for two years.
It is hard to believe that the S&P 500 closed at 3,577 only two years ago (it’s at 5,800 now) when investors were nervous that the inflation rate would never slow down after the unexpectedly high wholesale inflation report. The magazine Barron’s ran an article later that day titled “Experts Say Disaster Could Be Near. Details Are Slim.” The next day, before
the market opened, a major consumer inflation report came out that showed things were dire.
Then something strange happened. The market opened and fell as expected, then about midday, stocks began to rally and ended up closing positive 2.6% on the day.
It is a good reminder for investors to take notice when stocks start to rise despite negative news because there might be more to the story. This reminds me of the famous quote by John Templeton, “Bull markets are born on pessimism, grow on skepticism, mature on optimism, and die on euphoria.” One thing we now know is that despite negative news, a bull market was
born two years ago. Since then, the S&P 500 set 44 record highs to grow a total return of 62%.
It would be an understatement to say the market rally grew on skepticism. Stocks rallied during a season of unprecedented aggressive rate hikes by the Federal Reserve (Fed). Inflation wasn’t “transitory” as the Fed had predicted, 10-year bond yields jumped to 5.00%, and a war broke out in the Middle East. Everything that could go wrong was going wrong, yet the market continued to run and has for two years.
So what will happen next?
Historically, bull markets continue into a third year. Since 1950, the length of
a bull market has averaged just over five years, not counting the current bull market. I compared the annualized returns of each bull market to its length in years.
Our current one is running fairly high compared to other bull markets. If this bull market continues, investors should expect positive returns but likely lower annualized returns for the remainder of this bull run.
This bull market has been impressive, especially given the political, economic and world conditions it has faced over the last two years. On a shorter-term basis, I expect to see continued volatility for three reasons:
1. The market is approaching being overpriced.
2. The market often weak-
ens just before major elections.
3. The uncertainty of a larger war in the Middle East disrupting oil supplies.
As I write this, I keep thinking that next month is my twenty-eighth wedding anniversary, and I haven’t planned anything for it. It’s not that I’m not excited about 28 years with my brown-eyed beauty; it’s just that my plan is for this to be the midpoint of our marriage. I think we would all say the same about this bull market anniversary: We are happy about it, but mostly, we are just hoping it lasts a lot longer than this. Have a blessed week! www.FerventWM.com
Why pre-approval should be at the top of your homebuying to-do list
mortgage rates are coming down, you may be thinking it’s finally your moment to jump into the market. To make sure you’re ready, you need to get pre-approved for a mortgage.
That’s when a lender looks at your finances, including things like your W-2, tax returns, credit score, and bank statements, to figure out what they’re willing to loan you. After that process, you’ll get a pre-approval letter to show what you can borrow. Here
are two reasons why this is essential in today’s market. Pre-Approval Helps You Know Your Numbers
While home affordability is finally starting to show signs of improving, it’s still tight. So, it’s a good idea to talk to a lender about your loan options and how today’s changing mortgage rates will impact your monthly payment. The pre-approval process is the perfect time for that. In addition to determining the maximum amount you can
borrow, pre-approval also helps you understand this piece of the puzzle. As Investopedia says:
“Consulting with a lender and obtaining a pre-approval letter allows you to discuss loan options and budgeting with the lender; this step can clarify your total house-hunting budget and the monthly mortgage payment you can afford.”
You should use this information to tailor your home search to what you’re actually comfortable with budget-wise. Since mortgage rates have inched down some lately, you may find you’re able to afford a bit more than you’d expect for your monthly payment, but you still want to avoid overextending. As CNET explains:
“In many cases, a lender may preapprove you for more than you need to spend on a home. And while it can be tempting to look at
houses outside your budget, it won’t help you in the long run. Before you start touring homes, figure out how much you can realistically afford and stick to your budget.”
Pre-Approval Makes Your Offer More Appealing
And once you do find a home you want in your budget, pre-approval has another big perk. It not only makes your offer stronger, it also shows sellers you’ve already undergone a credit and financial check. When a seller sees you as a serious buyer, they may be more attracted to your offer because it seems more likely to go through. As Greg McBride, Chief Financial Analyst at Bankrate, says:
“Preapproval carries more weight because it means lenders have actually done more than a cursory review of your credit and your finances, but have instead reviewed your pay
stubs, tax returns and bank statements. A preapproval means you’ve cleared the hurdles necessary to be approved for a mortgage up to a certain dollar amount.” As mortgage rates trend down, more buyers are going to be ready to jump back into the market. And while demand is still limited right now, there’s the potential for competition to pick back up, especially in hot markets. So, why not stack the deck in your favor and make sure you’re putting yourself in the best position possible when you find a home you love?
Bottom Line
If you’re planning on buying a home, don’t forget to get pre-approved early in the process. It can help you get a more in-depth understanding of what you can borrow and shows sellers you mean business. It’s Your Move! Getting you where you need, is my promise to you. Call me today to get you with a lender to start your journey. Heather Tankersley REALTOR®, ABR® Keller Williams Tri-Lakes D: 417.332.5130 O:417.336.4999
BY JODY JOHNSON GODFREY Wellness Design Specialist
Slowly, since the Industrial Age set in, the subliminal push behind automation (and without us realizing it) turned out to be the pursuit of (much) more leisure time. I’m not necessarily against this, only as it works as a gateway for betterment of our physical and mental status (general outlook on life…).
This may seem a strange topic to come under the venue of health/wellness, but let’s face it, if we come
The ‘happy’ addicts
completely under undisguised communist rule or Marxist Martial Law, HOW healthy will we be?
The very first component of “responsibility” is awareness. If we refuse to be aware and informed of what is happening with us as individuals, families or a nation, the “beginning of the end” will ensue. I know, even, when I was in school and as I look back, now, the teachers did a most incomplete job of covering exactly what communism entailed. If they had explained it properly and accurately, I wouldn’t have had to learn about it from watching a TV series, “The Americans.” What communism mirrors on a daily basis is quite frightening. This series showed kids going to the alleys and begging for crumbs from the local restaurants
and bakeries – hoping against hope for a handout that would stop their tummies from hurting – yet for another day! This is no way for any nation to live, but certainly not for a country who has the resources to know better. When we as individuals, or collectively, aren’t responsible enough to face up to impending extinction as a free world, this way of life can be a reality. As a prelude to The Pfizer Papers, which is a tell-all book that comes out this week, by Dr. Naomi Wolf, about the Covid “vaccine.” Through legitimate documents that were court ordered to be released from Pfizer (via a lawsuit if my understanding is correct), this book details through actual research documents how the “vaccine” met all their objectives for a bio
weapon in the asymmetrical war on humanity. I was privileged to view (from a tip-off by Tim Kidwell) an interview of Dr. Naomi Wolf in an interview with Del Bigtree from The High Wire. This interview truly emphasized and augmented my disdain for the people “who just want to not worry and be happy.” These folks who are only interested in the fun they can get out of life and not be bumped out of their comfort zones are just more than I can wrap my head around. Dr. Wolf gives some highlights of her book and it is all very scary AND appalling that it took this long for people to start putting it all together but there are STILL people out there who will refuse to believe the truth even in view of concrete and irrefutable evidence coming
straight from the horse’s mouth (Pfizer). I believe the lawsuit that forced Pfizer to make their research public saved the day and hopefully this, going forward, will teach all of us that when it comes to our wellbeing and individual/joint freedom, it is our number one responsibility to think of many corporate agendas being “guilty til proven innocent.”
This is called “survival” and the short-term price we pay for long-term stability.
We as citizens must stop the mentality of not believing what is uncomfortable.
This was the entire point and objective of the “positive thinking” movement of the eighties! It programmed us to be “shameful” if we complained about something or harbored and spoke out on any negative thought or idea. This, truly, was an
ingenious foothold for the black hats. In my opinion, it commenced the snowballing effect of ceasing to be critical/logical and independent thinkers. If we are fearful to speak out (peer pressure) and recognize a problem or problem area— guess what? The problem then takes on a life of its own, grows up and never gets solved or corrected! I recognized this as it was happening and spoke out about it and was tagged a perpetually “negative” being, but I still kept talking/ writing in hopes that there were more than 50% of the population that were responsible, accountable and who refused to allow our country to remain an ongoing cesspool.
‘Dear Medicare, could you please be more complicated?’ said no one...ever
Ramsey Solutions
Last week, we discussed the process for Medicare enrollment. But there’s much more! You’ll want to consider applying for drug coverage and Medigap or consider whether you want to switch over to a Medicare Advantage Plan.
Enrollment for Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Part D
If you decide a Medicare Advantage Plan works better for your needs, you’ll get an opportunity to enroll in one of the enrollment periods. You’ll also be able to sign up for Part D during these times.
IEP (if you’re new to Medicare)
OEP (if you’re changing your plan)
• SEP (if you have special circumstances)
Start by comparing plans as you would with any health insurance. If you already have doctors and health care providers you like, make sure they’re in the provider network of the plan you choose. Once you find the best plan for your situation, join it by calling the plan provider or visiting their website.
Remember, you must already be enrolled in Medicare parts A and B to get a Medicare Advantage Plan. To sign up, you’ll need to provide your Medicare number and the start dates of your parts A and B coverages. Delaying signing up
If you don’t want to sign up for Medicare at 65, you don’t get to just sit back and ignore everything. You must prove to the government that you have comparable health coverage through your employer or the marketplace—otherwise you’ll get penalized later if you ever want to sign up for Medicare (which you probably will). Proof could be as simple as an insurance card with both your and your em-
ployer’s names on it. Understanding enrollment choices
We’ve talked a lot about the different Medicare options and how to enroll in them.
Let’s just review the details of those options quickly.
Comparing original Medicare and Medicare Advantage (Part C)
The main difference between the two is how much control and how many options you have.
Original Medicare: This is parts A and B together. You would usually add a Medigap Plan to help cover out-of-pocket costs and Part D for prescription drugs. You’d have three Medicare cards and would manage these plans separately. You can go to any provider who accepts Medicare.
Medicare Advantage: This is parts A and B plus extra coverages by a private insurer. These often come with a prescription drug plan too. After you sign up for parts A and B and then buy an Advantage plan, all these plans are managed by the private insurer, and you get one card. You are limited to providers within the network set by the insurance company. Choosing a Medicare
Part D plan
There are a few things to consider when you’re picking out prescription drug coverage. One big thing you should know about Part D plans is they have a coverage gap—also called “the donut hole.” This donut hole is not tasty. In this hole, you pay more for your prescriptions depending on what type of drug they are.
Here’s how it works: Everything is normal up until the limit ($5,030 in 2024)—you pay your copay and your plan pays the rest. Then when you and your plan reach the limit, suddenly you pay a percentage of your drug costs based on the drug type (which usually results in you paying a lot more). Once you’ve reached another out-of-pocket limit ($8,000 in 2024), your plan takes over and pays 100% of everything.
There are plans that cover this donut hole, but they cost more. So, it pays to figure out if you need those extra coverages.
When you’re picking out a Part D Plan, ask yourself these questions:
Do you take medications currently? If you’re on medications, make sure the plans you’re looking at
cover those drugs.
Do you take generic drugs or expensive drugs? If you take generic drugs, look for a plan that offers “tiers” where you pay nothing or low copayments for generic drugs. If you’re concerned about your drug costs getting too high, look for a plan that offers coverage in the coverage gap (aka “donut hole”).
Do you have pharmacies you prefer to go to? Make sure the plan allows you to use them. Some plans contract with a network of pharmacies and won’t cover drugs from pharmacies outside it. Some plans have “preferred pharmacies” that offer better prices, which could save you money.
Do you want to avoid penalties? Who doesn’t? Even if you don’t really have drug costs now, you should still sign up for a Part D Plan
with low monthly premiums when you are first eligible (unless you already have drug coverage through other health insurance). You’ll avoid the penalties that come with signing up later. Common mistakes and how to avoid them
With a program this confusing, it’s not surprising that it’s easy to make a lot of mistakes. Here are some common Medicare mistakes you can avoid:
Missing enrollment deadlines: There are a lot of dates to keep track of. But the really important one is your IEP. If you miss it and don’t qualify for an SEP, you’ll have to pay higher premiums for the rest of your life. And keep in mind, the longer you wait, the bigger the penalties get.
Not reviewing coverage options annually: Medicare rules change every year. You need to keep up with them
because changes can mean you’re no longer fully covered. A Medicare advocate can keep track of these for you and let you know if you need to adjust anything.
Failing to understand costs and benefits of different plans: Just like with regular health insurance, Medicare plans are different, and depending on your situation, some work better than others. If you’re thinking about going with a Medicare Advantage Plan, you need to understand that you may not be able to get a Medigap policy if you decide you want to switch back to Original Medicare. Insurance companies are only required to sell you a Medigap Plan during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period. After that, they can deny you coverage if you don’t meet their health requirements (like if you have a preexisting condition).
Become a 2024 Christmas Assistance Sponsor
For over two decades, our community has supported Branson students through the Christmas Assistance Program, and we are looking forward to helping families again in 2024. We will be accepting monetary donations only in order to provide gift cards to families in need. The gift cards provided to families do not allow the purchase of alcohol, tobacco, lottery or firearms.
Branson High School Tech Practicum students produce MSPMA Conference
BHS Tech Practicum students produced the 2024 Missouri School Plant Managers Association Conference for the fifth year in a row. These students ran the tech, audio and visual elements for over 35 sessions and 400-plus attendees.
Branson School District community survey: Share your thoughts today, impact tomorrow’s future
The Branson School District is seeking input from our school families and community members. This survey is intended to gauge the community’s perspectives on certain topics which will impact future planning. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with the district! Access the community feedback survey at: https://www.branson.k12.mo.us/departments/ communications/community_feedback_survey
Branson students make blankets for those in need
The Cedar Ridge Intermediate Craft Club has been
Branson
working hard to craft fleece blankets that will be donated to children in the foster care system.
Through this initiative, they are demonstrating the Portrait of a Pirate trait of Compassion.
Hollister School District offers holiday assistance
Each year the Hollister R-V School District Counseling Team coordinates holiday assistance for families in need of extra assistance during the holiday season. Applications for assistance will be accepted through November 18, 2024.
Guidelines:
• Student must attend Hollister Schools. The amount of assistance varies and there is no assurance of assistance.
• Forms for assistance will not be accepted after November 18, 2024.
Families must be able to pick up Christmas/Holiday assistance on December 10, 11, or 12.
We are excited to partner with Christian Action Ministries for Thanksgiving Meal Assistance. If you are in need of meal assistance, please contact Christian Action Ministries at 417-334-1157.
If you would like to help a family in need this holiday season, go to this link https://www.hollister.k12.mo.us/58053_1
Hollister School District honors veterans with Veterans Day assembly
The Hollister R-V School District warmly invites all Veterans and their guests to our district-wide Veterans Day Assembly on Monday, November 11. To honor your service, we will be serving breakfast at 7 a.m. in the district office, followed by our assembly at 8:30 a.m. in the Hollister High School gymnasium. Please RSVP by Monday, November 4 at https://forms. gle/Y9JfPXMvnkELVnW78 or by calling 417-243-4045 ext. 4411. Students, staff and attendees are encouraged to wear red, white and blue!
Hollister Tiger Band crowned Missouri State 3A Champions
The Hollister Tiger Band has claimed the title of Missouri State Marching Association 3A State Champion for the third
year in a row after an outstanding performance on Saturday, October 19. The band swept the competition, securing the top spots in the music, visual, and color guard captions. Next, the Hollister Tiger Band will take their talents to the Bands of America Super Regional, held in the Dome at America’s Center in St. Louis on Saturday, October 26. Competing against nearly 100 bands from across the Midwest, Hollister looks forward to representing their school and community on a national stage.
Hollister ES/ECC: Family night drive through, family campout on October 25
Hollister ECC and Elementary families are invited to join their first Title I Family Night of the year on Friday, October 25, from 4 to 4:30 p.m. This Title I Night is a drive-through event through the ECC loop by the practice football field where students and their families will receive fun activities, games, snacks and a craft to take home and enjoy! This is a FREE event.
Also on October 25, Hollister ECC and Elementary invite families to the second annual family campout event. Students and their parents can set up tents at the softball field starting at 5:30 p.m. Families can then attend the last home football game of the season or take a trip to the City of Hollister’s Trunk-n-Treat before returning to the softball field to camp out overnight. Dinner and breakfast will be served. Security will be provided all night. You are responsible for providing your own tent and camping items. We look forward to seeing you on Friday, October 25. Please RSVP at https://forms.gle/4LeDLuvdUvuBVyH4A.
Wolves Football Team snaps losing streak
The Reeds Spring Wolves improved its record to 4-4 with a dominating 38-0 victory recently over Buffalo on Senior Night. Keagon Fish, Nathan
Chalk Talk Facebook Instagram LinkedIn
School District QR codes for Chalk Talk,
Stay in Touch with Hollister Schools
(Photo submitted)
(Photo submitted)
The Hollister Tiger Band with their state championship trophy (Photo submitted)
Mitchell, Sam Carpenter and Jace Bolin scored touchdowns. Lucas Wattenbarger, Landon Irvin, Noah Norris and Jayden Turner added two-point conversions. The Wolves finish the regular season at Hollister on October 25.
Girls Tennis
The girls tennis season ended with a 5-0 loss to Monett in the district tournament. The Lady Wolves won their opening round match, defeating Aurora 5-3.
Cross Country At Clever, Connor Love placed 18th and Lukas Hutson was 41st for the boys. Jenna Adams was 18th and Kaylee Geniuk 33rd for the girls.
Volleyball
The Lady Wolves lost to Buffalo 3-1 and Hollister 3-1. Wolf Pack Park officially open
The Reeds Spring School District is excited to announce that Wolf Pack Park officially opened to the public on October 21. This 125-acre community park offers a variety of recreational activities, including tennis and pickleball courts, a half-court basketball area, hiking and biking trails, and a youth sports field. Future additions will include a disc golf course and a fully accessible playground.
In September, the park was opened for one day to host the Rotary Club of Table Rock Lake’s pickleball tournament and 5k race. Since then, the remaining work has been completed, and the park will now be open daily from dawn to dusk.
Courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis unless reserved in advance or being used by school teams or classes. Reservations can be made through www.wolfpackpark.com.
The accessible playground, designed for people of all abilities, is expected to be completed by spring, along with the disc golf course.
Have school news to share with the community? Send your school news to editor@bransonglobe. com!
BY ROSE BUCKLES, Local Freelance Writer
Soccer teams from Branson, Harrison and Nixa competed for the COPA DE ESTACA on Saturday, October 19, from 9 to 3 pm. This was the third annual soccer tournament that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints South Stake hosted. Johnathon Astorga coordinated the event and was also one of the referees. Johnathon stated this annual event brings communities together to enjoy the soccer tournament. Men and women teams ages 15 and up were invited to participate. Youth ages 12 to 14 were also invited to compete.
Third annual area soccer tournament held
Family members, friends and neighbors sat on the bleachers or tried to follow along the sidelines as they watched the games. It was a sunny day and everyone appreciated that.
There was a team wearing yellow shirts who were named Galacticos, a team wearing blue shirts named Lamanitos, a team wearing black shirts, and a team wearing red shirts.
A young couple named Roberto and Oliy brought their three children to enjoy the tournament and Stockstill Park. They have
enjoyed tournaments for years. Roberto stated, “I could see this sport grow to benefit the community and build a great tournament.”
They have a small Mexican restaurant in Blue Eye named Las Casitas. He had many ideas to encourage the community to build on this idea of the soccer tournaments.
Two young men who were on a break were asked why they enjoy soccer. Khalil from Jamaica and Brigham from Belize, both wearing blue team shirts, said they “began playing
soccer when they were five years old.” Khalil said he “grew up playing soccer with his cousins.” He also said “it’s one of the most popular sports, and I like this sport.” The Blue team named Lamanitas won the tournament.
Building Our American Communities grant funds available
Mo.gov
The Missouri Department of Agriculture announced the availability of Building our American Communities grant funds. The BOAC Program provides $12,000 annually to
Missouri 4-H clubs and FFA chapters for projects aimed at developing and advancing Missouri’s rural communities. Projects must benefit an agricultural community and/ or promote community devel-
opment. Projects may include improvements to existing facilities, grounds or buildings that are used by various groups or organizations in the applicant’s community.
Applications must be post-
Story time with Scuba Claus is coming to Wonders of Wildlife
Submitted to Branson Globe
Scuba Claus is coming to town on select days in November and December!
We are decking the halls at Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium and diving into the holidays with splashy lights, hot cocoa and a reading of the story “Christmas Eve at the Aquarium with Scuba Santa” from Mrs. Claus. Be WOW’d as Scuba Claus and his helper, Peppermint, go out to sea and dive in the Great Barrier
Reef spreading Christmas cheer in a magical underwater wonderland.
Elf package:
Storytime with Mrs. Claus and Scuba Claus Pre-show activity and games
• Hot cocoa or apple cider at the Shipwreck Reef Snack Bar
Christmas craft in Shipwreck Reef
• Santa letter writing activity
• Mission conservation
scavenger hunt
• Holiday scene photo print
Rudolph package:
Same-day admission to the Aquarium between 3 p.m. and close Storytime with Mrs. Claus and Scuba Claus Wintertime animal plush
• Pre-show activity and games
• Hot cocoa or apple cider at the Shipwreck Reef Snack Bar
• Christmas craft in Ship-
wreck Reef
• Santa letter writing activity
Mission conservation scavenger hunt Holiday photo package: Holiday scene print and digitals, and Scuba Claus print
Story time with Scuba Claus is available select days in November and December. For more information and to purchase tickets, https:// wondersofwildlife.org/holidays/; or purchase tickets at Wonders of Wildlife.
Football seniors (Photo submitted)
Pickleball at Wolf Pack Park (Photo submitted)
RIGHT: Coordinator Johnathon Astorga; BELOW: Exciting soccer action (Photos by Rose Buckles)
Think Big Foundation rebrands and launches new donation bins to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ozarks
Submitted to Branson Globe
The Think Big Foundation is excited to announce a fresh new look for its clothing and shoe donation bins, which directly benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ozarks. Historically known for their distinctive purple bins, the foundation is introducing white bins with updated foundation branding. The new bins feature the foundation’s refreshed logo in green, black, and white and display photos of mentorship matches, emphasiz-
ing the foundation’s mission to defend the potential of every child in the Ozarks. By rolling out these new designs, Think Big aims to enhance visibility and ensure donors feel confident their contributions are directly supporting local life-changing mentoring programs. This initiative was made possible in part by a grant from Solid Waste Management District O, enabling the purchase of 12 new white bins, which are already in place across south
Springfield, Republic, Nixa, Ozark, Rogersville and Strafford. While the transition to white bins is underway, the familiar purple bins will remain in service to continue collecting donations until additional grants or contributions make it possible to fully convert to the new design. Think Big is committed to completing this transition as quickly as possible.
“We’re thrilled about this exciting update,” said Leslie Birdwell, Executive
Tri-Lakes Amateur Radio Club offers
Submitted to Branson Globe
We have a very active amateur radio club in the Branson area - the TriLakes Amateur Radio Club. Did you know that the Tri-Lakes Amateur Radio Club has served the Branson area for 75 years by providing emergency communications and that there are over 100 amateur radio licensees in Branson?
Amateur radio is a very old hobby that has brought countless opportunities through the years for citi-
zens to help other citizens who might be in an emergency situation. Many times, ham radio has been the only communication available during emergencies both locally and disasters at the national level! This is a hobby that stood the test of time because its entire reason for being is as a service to our fellow man. Ham radio operators are like many other fraternal organizations and become like family in their common goal of serving one another!
In each of the recent storms that reached a WARNING level, the Club initiated a Weather Net, managed by a Net Control member, and a contact point where various spotters and any licensed amateur radio individual could report conditions and damage from their location. This information was then passed along to National Weather Service for documenting. We’ve burned the midnight oil on some of the storms earlier this year to be a service to our community.
An example of how ham radio is being used greatly very recently was in the recent hurricanes. There was little to no phone or electrical service in many sections of western North Carolina after Hurricane Helena, but ham radio operators scattered throughout North Carolina did a stellar job! With linked repeaters and Simplex capabilities, communication in a time of disaster was ongoing. Looking back
Director of the Think Big Foundation. “These new bins make it easier for our community to know their donations support mentoring relationships right here in the Ozarks.”
The Think Big Foundation invites everyone to continue donating gently used clothing and shoes to help sustain the vital work of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ozarks. Together, we can create brighter futures and empower the potential in every child.
to 9/11, when the towers came down with all the cell phone towers installed on top, ham radio was the only form of communication for some time. Anyone who is in ham radio can be used to their highest service during these times of crisis! This is what we train for and this is our civic duty and responsibility. Being of service to our fellow man is our highest calling.
The Branson Club has about 90 members and is still growing, with new members being added regularly. Many of our operators are older citizens but still active, but in order to keep the hobby alive and interesting, we are always seeking new members and hoping to appeal to the younger generation as well. The club recently offered Ham Radio Boot Camp #101 which was a huge success. The goal of this boot camp was to prepare the participants to pass the FCC Technician Class Amateur Radio Li-
cense exam, which is the first level of licensing. We are excited to report that during the two-session boot camp, we have now added 15 new hams to our club roster! It is a radio operator’s delight to hear new hams out on the frequencies and boldly entering into conversations and checking into nets and becoming familiar with their new radios and radio etiquette and using their license privilege. Our youngest new ham is 12 years old, but a range of ages participated in this boot camp.
The club also recently held a very successful General Boot Camp, the next level of testing with several other licensing privileges that come with the upgrade. We held class for a total of 20 participants and tested 22 folks (21 for General upgrade and one for an initial technician license), and we had a total of 18 General upgrades and one new Technician. Richard Claar, ADØUD,
led the study session in the same manner as he did the Technician Boot Camp. Thank you to all of the club’s VEs, Elmers, and volunteers who have dedicated their time to help make others successful. For those wondering about our next Technician License Boot Camp, the next licensing session is November 2 and is filling fast. We are also planning to offer two Technician Boot Camps and two General Boot Camps in 2025. There is never a better time than this to become a ham radio operator. Ham radio is a very civic-minded hobby with real value in emergency situations especially. You, too, can become a ham radio operator and gain a hobby that will allow you to be of service to your community. The hobby is alive and well and growing. If you are interested in further information about becoming a ham radio operator, please send an email to tlarcbranson@ gmail.com
General boot camp (Photo submitted)
F.
Barstow, Tammy Jean 62 Ridgedale Cremations of the Ozarks Davis, Luther “Lou” E. 69 Reeds Spring Cremations of the Ozarks Frangkiser, Susanne 76 Fordland Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory Kartheiser, John 72 Forsyth Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel Rantz, Betty (Vining) 80 Branson Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory
GUMI USA Memorial Garden built, dedicated by
Submitted to Branson Globe
Tan-
Forget Garden” at GUMI Camp in Cedarcreek, MO. This garden was made possible thanks in part from a grant from the National Society in Washington, D.C. to
celebrate the upcoming 250th birthday of the U.S. and due to extraordinary work done by Chapter Vice Regent and Conservation Committee Chair, Linda Oeser and her husband, Fritz.
GUMI USA, which stands for “Glad U Made It” is a special place with a program of healing to aid our veterans to gain a “hand up” and allow them to move forward. This “Never Forget Garden” started at the Tomb of the Memorial Soldier in Washington, D.C., and all citizens are encouraged to plant these gardens, so we never forget the sacrifices our veterans
Daughters of the American Revolution
have made on our behalf.
Each year, on or around October 11, Daughters nationwide participate in a Day of Service to commemorate our Society’s founding on October 11, 1890. Taneycomo Chapter’s service this year was to dedicate this Memorial Garden and to plant bulbs and flowers so that next spring the garden will bloom in vibrant colors and emit wonderful scents for all who visit to experience comfort and solace.
A “Never Forget Garden” has special requirements, including a bench to pause and reflect, a rose bush preferably white, and a memorial mark-
er or stone on which to focus while remembering.
Tim Hadler, and Angela Hadaller, Director of GUMI, graciously accepted our invitation to take part in this dedication with Tim singing the National Anthem and other meaningful patriotic songs and Angela leading the Pledge of Allegiance and laying a white rose of remembrance on the memorial stone marker.
Daughters also received a flag from the National Flag of the US Committee that had flown over our National Society headquarters in D.C. This flag now flies proudly over GUMI Camp after its dedication.
The National Society Daughters of the American
Revolution (DAR) is a women’s service organization whose members can trace their lineage to an individual who contributed to securing American independence during the Revolutionary War. DAR chapters participate in projects to promote historic preservation, education and patriotism. Over one million members have joined the organization since its founding in 1890.
If you are interested in learning more about DAR membership, visit our chapter Facebook page at: https:// www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100076001113062 or contact Leslie Wyman, Chapter Registrar at lswyman.dar@gmail.com.
Memorial Garden dedication (Photo by Jody Adams)
Worship Directory
You are encouraged to worship with us!
And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.– Hebrews 10:25
Around Town: Here’s what’s going on in the Tri-Lakes
OCTOBER
• 24 Library Center of the Ozarks: Children’s Storytime, 10:30 a.m. Miss Lia will be treating kids to a fun, interactive program. Plan on singing, listening to a story, crafting and much more. Babies to children age six are welcome. This event happens every Thursday morning at 10:30 a.m. excluding library closures and hol-
idays. Library Center of the Ozarks, lower level program room, 200 S. 4th St., Branson.
• 24 Wranglers Honky Tonk: LIVE music, Jukebox Winos. 5-7 p.m. enjoy Dowd’s catfish & BBQ, steaks, shrimp, pies, cobbler. We’ll play favorite covers and original music.
From 7-11 p.m.: Melody Hart & All Star Band on main stage. Large dance floor. 625 Hwy. 165, Bran-
son. For more information, call 417-544-1405.
• 26 Jukebox Winos: LIVE Music, TAPS on Downing Street, 6-8 p.m. Gather in historic downtown Hollister and enjoy 24 craft beers and cider on tap plus local wines and Hook & Ladder’s pizza truck. We play favorite covers and original music. 260 Birdcage Walk, Hollister. For more information, www. jukeboxwinos.com
• 26 Branson Dance Club monthly dance. Branson ballroom dancers have a dance once a month at the Branson Community Center, 201 Compton Drive, Branson, from 7-9:30 p.m. Open dance for everyone. $10 admission. Coffee, tea and water are provided; please bring snack or appetizer to share on the food table. Dances include two-step, foxtrot, cha cha, waltz, line dancing, swing and more.
28 Story Time: Books, games, songs and crafts at Kimberling Area Library, 45 Kimberling Blvd., Kimberling City, 10:30 a.m., for ages 7 years and younger, but all are welcome.
28 Ozark Women’s Association monthly meeting for members and those interested in learning about O.W.A. 11:15 a.m., Golden Corral, 3551 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway, Branson. Cost is $13 for buffet. Text or leave mes-
sage at 417-230-6561.
• 28 Veterans of the Ozarks: Quarterly QPR Suicide Prevention Training, 6:30 p.m., Kimberling City Elks Lodge, 37 Beach Blvd., Kimberling City. Hosted by Veterans of the Ozarks, this FREE class takes just one hour to become a certified gatekeeper in the Question, Persuade, Refer intervention method. contact email on Facebook is votoorg1@ veteransoftheozarks.org. Contact per email, Facebook: votoorg1@veteransoftheozarks.org
29 Branson’s Song of Hope: “Hopeful Hilarity” stand-up comedy show, for charity, 7 p.m., Wranglers Honky Tonk, 625 Historic Hwy. 165, Branson. Incredible event to feature top comedians like Joey I.L.O and Corbin LeMaster, supporting a great cause. Proceeds go directly to benefit House of Hope Warming Center. “Hopeful Hilarity” is part of bigger movement to bring more stand-up comedy to Branson.
31 Library Center of the Ozarks: Children’s Storytime, 10:30 a.m. Miss Lia will be treating kids to a fun, interactive program. Plan on singing, listening to a story, crafting and much more. Babies to children age six are welcome. This event happens every Thursday morning at 10:30 a.m. excluding library closures and holidays. Library Center of the Ozarks, lower level program room, 200 S. 4th St., Branson.
NOVEMBER
pray for and rally behind Seitz and all conservative Christian candidates. Rally will feature several speakers and performers. Held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at God and Country Theater, 1840 West 76 Country Boulevard, Branson. For more information, call 417-598-3413.
Welcome: Dr. Brad Johnson, C of O
• Introduction to Posting of the Colors: Bob Sarver, BVA 913 Posting of the Colors: BVA 913 Honor Guard
• Invocation: Sierra Smith, C of O Senior
• Pledge of Allegiance: Sgt. First Class Ernie Bradley, US Army Retired National Anthem: Jackson Collins, C of O Senior
• Opening Remarks: Bob Sarver
LAST DANCE IMAX E 1:15, 4:00, 7:30 OZARKS Q 10:00 IRELAND Q 11:00
ALLEY Q 12:00
CEREMONY
Reading of Proclamation: Larry Milton, Branson Mayor
• God Bless America: Jackson Collins
• Introduction of Dr. Jerry C. Davis: Bob Sarver
• The Missouri Vietnam Memorial Story: Dr. Jerry C. Davis, President Emeritus, C of O Introduction of Keynote Speaker: Bob Sarver Keynote Address: Brig. Gen. James Schreffler, Vice President for Patriotic Activities, C of O; Assistant
Adjutant General, Missouri Army National Guard
• Presentation of Remembrance: Bob Sarver
• Wreath Laying Ceremony: BVA 913 Honor Guard
• Rifle Volley: BVA 913 Honor Guard
• Taps: Sgt. Major Bab Smither, US Army, Retired Benediction: Seth Miller, C of O Senior Retire Colors: BVA 913 Honor Guard
• Closing Remarks: Bob Sarver
• 30 King’s Chapel Branson: Candy Lane, 6-8 p.m. King’s Branson FREE fall event. If you are looking for safe, family fun this season, this is the perfect event for you. Children ages 0-12 will be thrilled with a variety of fun including puppet show, prizes, characters and TONS of CANDY. Candy Lane is at King’s Branson located at Music City Centre on 76.
• 2 Reeds Spring Schools PTO: Arts and craft show, 8 a.m. Free to the public. Meals provided by Walmart Branson West will be available all day and meal tickets will benefit Children’s Miracle Network. Booth fees will fund classroom needs and teacher/staff appreciation events in the primary, elementary and intermediate buildings at Reeds Spring Schools. Event at Reeds Spring High School, 20277 Missouri 413, Reeds Spring. Learn more about their programs and how to get involved at www.ptoreedsspring.com
• 2 Prayer – Praise – Pro Life Election Rally, presented by Proclaim Ministries. Rally is in honor of Brian Seitz, seeking reelection for Missouri State Representative, District 156, and other conservative and pro-life candidates in Nov. election. Public is invited to attend to encourage,
• 2 Library Center of the Ozarks: Saturday Storytime, 10:30 a.m. At weekend story time with Miss Bobbi, kids will enjoy stories, activities and lots of fun. This is a regular event happening every first Saturday of the month at 10 a.m., excluding library closures and government holidays. Library Center of the Ozarks, lower level program room, 200 S. 4th St., Branson.
2 Christian Action Ministries (CAM): Mobile food distribution. There is also a free lunch buffet provided by the church. Join us from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. for lunch and take home some groceries. Praise & Worship Church, 9138 E. State Hwy. 76, Branson West. This is our Stone County distribution on the first Saturday of each month. When you come, please let us know how many are in your household and show photo ID before getting your groceries.
2 Mt. Vernon Veterans Home: Sporting Clay Charity Shoot. Proceeds to Mt. Vernon Missouri Veterans Home Assistance League (funds used for in-house activities). Ozark Shooters Sports Complex, 759 U.S. Hwy. 65, Mile Marker 22.6, Walnut Shade. Open to everyone. Registration 8:30-9:30, shotgun start soon thereafter. Prices: Lunch included, 100 clays for individual $100 (veterans $90); 100 clays partner $100; 50 clays individual $75 (veterans $70). For more information, email shoot4me@ centurytel.net or call 417-443-3093.
• 3 Branson Jammin’ for Jesus: Free Gospel Benefit Concert, 2 p.m. Concert will benefit Jimmy Jack Foundation— they collect instruments to help make musical dreams of kids come true. We will collect used instruments and/or cash to help with repairs of, and supplies for, donated instruments. Make plans to join us for an amazing gospel concert and be blessed at you help us bless Jimmy Jack’s kids. Hughes Brothers Theater, 3425 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson.
• 4 Kimberling Area Library: Magic Tree House Book Club – Travel with Jack and Anne to read books, discuss and develop themes, 10:30 a.m. For ages 7-11 years but all are welcome. 45 Kimberling Blvd., Kimberling City.
BEETLEJUICE E 1:10, 4:10, 7:10 TWISTERS E 12:30, 3:30, 7:20 THE WILD ROBOT W 1:30, 4:00, 6:50
Branson Auction continues with new owners
STORY AND PHOTOS BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
The Branson Auction, one of the biggest and best automobile auctions in the country, has been a fixture in Branson for 45 years. Twice each year - in the spring and fall - car collectors and enthusiasts converge on Branson for the exciting event, in hopes of adding that special vehicle to their collection.
The Branson Auction was founded in the early 1980s by Mark Trimble and purchased by Jim Cox in 1988. It has been a popular event for those shopping for hobby or business ever since.
The October 2024 auction did not disappoint, with more than 230 vehicles on the auction block - from classics to muscle cars to motorcycles, and more - the Branson Auction offered something for everyone. Spirits were high and the bidding was often very competitive on both days of the auction.
On the evening prior to
the opening day of the auction, the Branson Auction hosted a special charity auction, with proceeds benefiting the Taney County 100 Club, an organization designed to provide financial assistance to the surviving spouse of a police officer, firefighter or first responder killed or critically injured in the line of duty.
Additionally, a 2002 Ford GT 40 was auctioned off with proceeds split between three Veterans organizations.
The biggest news of the Fall 2024 Branson Auction was the announcement of the auction’s new owners. Roger and Mary Napper purchased The Branson Auction from Jim and Kathy Cox.
The Nappers have a long history in the business of vehicles.
“We have owned a car dealership in Lebanon, MO, for 40 years,” explained Roger. “We bought a place here nine years ago and would stay occasionally,
when we could, and have loved the Branson area since we were married 40 years ago. We even honeymooned in Branson. We made the decision to move here, and in October 2023, we made it our permanent residence.”
“When Jim found out we had moved here, he wanted to have a meeting with us and we discussed the purchase at that point. He wanted ownership to stay local. We have been coming to this auction, buying and selling, for over 30 years. We have attended each location the sale has been at since that time, starting with the White Water parking lot, in a tent. We helped operate the April 2024 auction and became owners in August 2024. Roger and Mary Napper are the parents of three children - Kimberly Bailey and husband Nick, of Charlotte, NC; Joshua Napper and his fiancé Shelby of Branson; and son Jared, who sadly passed away in March of SEE AUCTION, PAGE 6C
CHANGING OF THE GUARD – Jim and Kathy Cox (right) welcome Roger and Mary Napper as the new proprietors of the Branson Auction. (Photo by George Kurland)
BY COWBOY JOHN FULLERTON, a native of Taney County, and a member of the Sons of the Pioneers.
It’s great to be home for a few days before we load up for another Sons of the Pioneers road trip. I have terribly missed my daily views of Mutton Hollow, and it’s great to get my “Shepherd” fix for a few days.
A couple of days ago a guest here asked a few questions wanting to know more about Harold Bell Wright’s popularity as an author as they were not that familiar with his books. I can tell you there are loads of newspaper accounts from way back when that reveal some most impressive details.
In 1918 the editors of “The American Magazine,”
a popular periodical out of Springfield, Ohio, had this to say. Check this out!
“Harold Bell Wright has written seven novels which have a combined sale of over 7,000,000 copies. This is a world’s record. No writer has ever before touched it. It is a sensational fact in the publishing field, and you who are not in the publishing field may as well enjoy the sensation. The average novel published is lucky if it sells 5,000 copies; even best sellers won’t average 50,000—but Harold Bell Wright averages 1,000,000 copies of every novel he has ever written. Over seven million copies of his seven books have been sold in less than fifteen years.”
The entire reason Wright turned to writing in 1903 was because he felt he could reach a wider audience by writing instead of preaching. By 1908 he had given up public preaching completely.
It’s also interesting to point out that during a twenty-year period, 1908 through 1928, Wright’s
books outsold everything with the exception of the Bible.
In 1934, Edward A. Weeks, who was the editor of “The Atlantic Monthly Press,” wrote a story about “Best Sellers Since 1875.” He stated that only 35 books had sold beyond 500,000 copies from that time. Of these 35 books, five of them were Harold Bell Wright novels. Those five were “The Shepherd of the Hills,” “The Winning of Barbara Worth,” “The Eyes of the World,” “The Calling of Dan Matthews” and “When A Man’s A Man.”
While we’re looking into all of this, what did Wright receive as far as royalties are concerned? I get that question out here quite often.
Harry Tinsley of Sunset Magazine interviewed Wright in 1918 and talked about income from royalties and movies. At the time, Wright’s earnings were around $734,000. His average monthly income was $2,340 and his yearly income was $70,000. At the
time of this interview with Tinsley, Wright was wrapping up work on his new novel, “The Re-Creation of Brian Kent.” Wright stated that once he turned the completed manuscript over to his publisher, he would receive $45,000 in addition to the contract royalties once the book was made available to the public.
None of this would have happened without Wright’s publisher, Elsbery W. Reynolds. He took a chance on an author that had never witnessed success and when they released Wright’s first novel, “That Printer of Udell’s” in 1903, they had never printed a book. Wright would be the only author they would ever publish! Stay tuned, next week; I will share some background details on Elsbery Reynolds. He and Wright were close friends.
By the way, gather around the radio tonight October 25, and listen to us (the Sons of the Pioneers) as we perform on the famous Grand Ole Opry. The broadcast begins
at 7 p.m.; go to www.wsmradio.com and listen to us.
Vince Gill will be performing also. Next year in 2025,
Branson West Museum focuses on two oldest military academies
Submitted to Branson Globe Army and Navy, the nation’s two oldest military academies, are the focus of a new exhibit titled “Elite Leadership” at the Faith, Family and Country Her-
v isitor BRANSON
Channel 5
itage Museum in Branson West.
West Point, the oldest continuously occupied regular army post in the nation, was established in 1803 while the Naval Academy, second oldest of the five service academies, formed in 1845.
A centerpiece of the exhibit is an Army Cadet uniform from the West Point Class of 1952, a graduating class that produced two future astronauts in America’s early space program - Michael Collins and Edward White. Collins finished 185th out of 527 Army cadets in the 1952 class. Opting to join
the Air Force, he served as a fighter pilot for several years before transitioning into the Gemini Space Program as part of the third group of astronauts. During Apollo 11, America’s first manned mission to the Moon, Collins was in charge of the Command Module Columbia. He died in 2021 at the age of 90.
White became the first man to walk in space in 1965, spending 23 minutes outside his space capsule during the second Gemini mission. His NASA career ended tragically in 1967 during a simulation aboard the Apollo spacecraft on the launchpad at Florida’s Ken-
nedy Space Center when a flash fire inside the capsule killed White and fellow astronauts Gus Grissom and Roger Chaffee. It was the first fatal accident directly attributed to the American space program.
Museum director and historian Jim Zbick said the heritage museum recently obtained a 1952 copy of the Howitzer, the West Point yearbook which includes information on White and Collins as cadets. Another yearbook recently gifted to the museum is a 1946 Naval Academy volume that includes two other notable American leaders - James Earl Carter, who would be-
come 39th President, and Walter Schirra, another future astronaut. Another display focuses on a key World War II battle that added to the fame of the 101st Airborne Division’s “Screaming Eagles.” After the Germans attacked in the Ardennes Forest on Dec. 16, 1944, soldiers from the 101st rushed into Bastogne, Belgium, to defend the crucial crossroads town.
The Faith, Family and Country Heritage Museum, located at 15025 Business Highway 13, is open 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday through Friday. Tours can be scheduled by calling 484-4645059.
America’s longest running radio show turns 100. Happy trails, everyone!
Harold Bell Wright’s ninth novel from 1919, “The Re-Creation of Brian Kent.” Wright made $45,000 when he sent the completed manuscript to his Chicago based publisher, Elsbery Reynolds. (Photo courtesy of John Fullerton)
BY BOB FORD, Writer,
history buff and regular visitor to Branson. You can find more of Bob’s work including his historical podcasts on his website bobfordshistory. com, and on YouTube at Bob Ford’s History. Bob can be reached at robertmford@aol.com.
If you love history, we are seeking sponsors to continue running this column, contact Rob Doherty at the Branson Globe, 417-3349100, for details.
In the late 1850s the telegraph was brand new.
News and events of the day could now be transcribed in a central location and then shared throughout the newspaper world. John Brown knew that and with every killing, ambush or battle his exploits were known by supporters and enemies.
The South considered Brown an enormous threat. Since Nat Turner’s Virginia slave rebellion in 1831 where 50-plus individuals from white slave holding families were slain, a slave rebellion was the single worst thought a southerner could have.
Britain had outlawed slavery in their vast colonial holdings in 1833. Why, I ask, was it taking the United States so long to purge itself of this inhuman practice, the answer: cotton and money. When the Civil War
John Brown: From Harpers Ferry to the hangman’s
first broke out, why did New York City want to remain neutral: cotton and money.
Europe was addicted to the South’s cotton. The commodity made up over half the dollar value traded from the United States in the first half of the 19th century.
Cotton was dependent on slavery and in an odd twist, slavery was dependent on cotton. The commodity was very labor intensive from planting to harvest.
John Brown was the most famous individual pre-Civil War era in the United States. His fame came from the reporting of his beliefs and violent acts. The more he was on the attack the more media coverage he got. Perhaps he had been the first to really manipulate the now instant media in his favor, but I’m not sure he realized how good he was at it.
His next plan was to produce an opportunity for slaves to rebel, arm them and create open warfare against the institution.
Harpers Ferry, Virginia, had an arms manufacturing facility and armory founded by George Washington with only a few soldiers guarding. It was perfect for an attack. The town was on rail at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers, in the heart of slave holding country.
For several years Brown and Frederick Douglass had been friends. Douglass, the respected ex-slave orator, who at the time was promoting a nonviolent end to slavery. Brown approached him about joining the effort, but he rejected
the involvement out of hand. After the entire episode Douglass would go on to write, “whether it was my discretion or cowardness, I declined to join in the attack.”
On a cool evening on October 16,1858, Brown made his move—he and 17 other whites, five freed slaves and one runaway found only one night watchman on guard. They took his keys. It was that easy, but now what? Spreading the word of the attack to slaves was a significant problem. But the overall plan was flawed at the conception; was it truly to raise a revolt and spread the abolitionist doctrine or flood the media with publicity about John Brown? His ego and conviction both never wavered.
In the “facts are stranger than fiction” file, the response of the U.S. Army to Brown’s occupation was ironic. Two days after the initial raid, Union Colonel Robert E. Lee, that’s right, Union Colonel, before he declared he could not fight against his home State of Virginia in the Civil War, led a regiment of soldiers along with fellow future Confederate General J.E.B. Stuart to arrest John Brown and his band.
Brown had not received the support from whites or blacks as he had hoped and was cornered in the fire engine house later to be named John Brown’s Fort by those U.S. forces. Stuart made a futile negotiation attempt giving Brown a chance to surrender before his troops charged, but he was rebuffed. Stuart’s assault was over in three minutes.
One of my favorite movies of all time is the 1940 classic, “Santa Fe Trail.” Errol Flynn, Olivia de Havilland and Ronald Reagan depict the era and happenings in and around Harpers Ferry in a wild west style adventure. Raymond Massey gives a performance of John Brown that is brilliant and haunting. Brown was wounded in the taking of the firehouse but able to stand trial for treason. All eyes and newspapers were focused on Harpers Ferry and the aftermath.
Brown had made several famous acquaintances while leading his crusade: Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, Henry David Thoreau, William Garrison and William Seward, but no one came to his aid.
While America watched, John Brown and several others were found guilty of treason against the Commonwealth of Virginia and sentenced to hang.
As I said, charges were brought against Brown by Virginia, not the United States. This widened the gap further between southern states and the Federal Government. Brown’s crusade against slavery and the national divide over the institution left no doubt the nation was on the brink. His last words before he was hanged was telling, “I, John Brown am now quite certain that the crimes of this guilty land will never be purged away, but with blood.”
On December 2, 1859, Brown was led from his jail cell to a wagon that would usher him to the gallows. He sat on a long box in the
back of the wagon — his coffin. Not much of a crowd witnessed the hanging; there was concern about protests but the small group that did gather was noteworthy.
Thomas Jackson an instructor at VMI, later to become a famed Confederate General and several students were present along with John Wilkes Booth an acclaimed actor who would of course play his best known role in real life, as the assassin of President Abraham Lincoln. By all accounts John Brown met his death as the man he was. He would have no minister or preacher attend to him because in Virginia, no doubt, they would be a supporter of slavery.
The South, of course, was pleased John Brown was gone, but on his day of death in many cities of the north, church bells rang. The divide between North and South had deepened by the biased newspaper accounts about the John Brown affair…from both sides. I have been to Harpers Ferry three times, frequented Brown’s Osawatomie, Kansas cabin, crossed Pottawatomie Creek and walked the Black Jack battlefield. John Brown wasn’t mad, he was a man of incredible conviction against the inhuman institution of slavery—never compromising or surrendering.
Shepherd of the Hills to embark on monumental 65th season
Submitted to Branson Globe
The Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama has been delighting audiences with a true-to-novel adaptation of the book, “The Shepherd of the Hills,” written by Harold Bell Wright, since opening in 1960. An estimated 8 million theatergoers have taken a seat for this iconic performance, playing their own part in America’s longest-running, privately owned outdoor dramas.
In 2025, the drama will celebrate a major milestone, embarking on its 65th season of retelling this beloved story. Over 90 Ozark native performers and livestock will again bring to life the characters in the story containing romance, action, mystery and so much more, all set on an outdoor stage featuring the beauty of the Ozark Mountains as the backdrop.
“The heritage at Shepherd of the Hills doesn’t just belong to us on property, but to every business and person that calls the Branson area home,” said Jeff Johnson, co-owner and
general manager. “Seeing the Outdoor Drama reach its 65th anniversary brings a great sense of honor and reverence to all of our past and current employees who have worked so hard all of these years to bring the story of the Ozarks to life.”
At one time, in many of America’s classrooms, “The Shepherd of the Hills” novel was required reading. While this is not the case today, The Shepherd of the Hills believes that children of this genera-
tion have much to learn from the classic novel. In 2025, to encourage literacy and the love of storytelling, all children’s ticket purchases for the Outdoor Drama will include a free copy of “The Shepherd of the Hills.”
To celebrate the historic 65th season, Shepherd of the Hills will host a full panel of special events and activities to commemorate and honor the drama. Details of the events will be announced on the company website, www.
theshepherdofthehills.com, and social channels in early 2025.
There are only a few more
performances remaining this year, and the Outdoor Drama will drop the curtain on the 64th season on Oct.
26. Information and tickets can be found online at www. theshepherdofthehills.com or by calling 417-334-4191.
John Brown (Photo submitted by Bob Ford)
BY LUANNA FULLERTON Entertainment Writer
Anew and exciting event is coming to Branson at the Wranglers Honky Tonk on October 29.
Area Entertainment: Hopeful Hilarity, a stand-up comedy show
I did a quick interview with Marshall Howden, the president of Branson’s Song Of Hope and host to this incredible event. The event is a part of a larger initiative to bring more stand-up comedy to Branson through the Branson Comedy Collective. He stated, “They are especially excited to bring this type of show to the community, with a fantastic line-up of comedians.” His hope is that it will be received and
a start to some new, exciting shows to come. This particular event will start with the honoring of Tim Mabe with the Branson Comedy Collective Lifetime Achievement Award for his longtime career contributions to the local comedy scene.
The comedians will include some well-known comedians, including Joey I.L.O. from Branson and Corbin LeMaster from Springfield.
Please note that this event will be held in a honky-tonk bar type scene and could include some “off the cuff” humor. So, keep in mind that this will be an “Adult Branson Themed Comedy Show!” It will stay within Branson’s wholesome spirit, with nothing too explicit or profane, but still meant for a mature audience.
Marshall stated, “We’re thrilled to be working alongside the House of Hope, with the proceeds
going directly to their Warming Center to support those in need for this winter. A small portion will be taken out of the ticket price to go to the venue fee. If you would like to make a tax-free donation to the House of Hope and its causes, please let Marshall know on Facebook at BransonComedyCollective.
I will be doing a follow-up interview with the comedians and the show next week. Be sure to come
back and check it out!
Remember the event will be held at the Wranglers Honky Tonk on October 29, 2024, at 7 p.m. Come out for a date night with your best one or get a group of friends together, and join in on the fun and make a night of it. For tickets contact, Wranglers Honky Tonk, 625 Historic Hwy 165, Branson. Phone 417-5441405, Wednesday through Saturday after 12 p.m.
Area appreciation offered to locals at Doug Gabriel Show
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Doug Gabriel is offering special area appreciation rates for local residents throughout the rest of the month.
You will have the opportunity to see one of Branson’s long-time entertainers headline one of the area’s most popular variety shows.
This year marks Gabriel’s 30th year in Branson. Well regarded as one of Branson’s top male vocalists, Doug, along with his fam-
ily and cast, will touch the hearts of all in this powerful show.
The Doug Gabriel Show, at the Reza Live Theatre,
can be seen at 10 a.m. Now through October 31, residents in Taney, Stone and surrounding counties can enjoy the show for special
area appreciation rates of just $10 per person. For show schedule or more information, contact the box office at 417-337-8300.
Area appreciation rates offered at special, limited-time exhibit
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Michaelangelo’s
Sistine
Chapel: The Exhibition is offering special rates to area residents.
Enjoy a life-size, close-up never-seen perspective of the Sistine Chapel at this truly
amazing exhibition, which takes approximately an hour to an hour and a half to experience.
The Sistine Chapel Exhibition is due to remain in Branson through midMarch of 2025, and this is your opportunity to see it at
a very special price.
Normally $28 for adults on weekdays and $29.50 on weekends, area appreciation rates of just $10 are available through October 31. Counties included are Barry, Barton, Christian, Cedar, Dade, Dal-
las, Douglas, Greene, Howell, Jasper, Laclede, Lawrence, McDonald, Newton, Ozark, Polk, Stone, Taney, Texas, Vernon, Webster and Wright in Missouri. Arkansas counties include Benton, Boone, Carroll, Crawford,
Franklin, Johnson, Logan, Madison, Marion, Newton, Pope, Searcy, Stone, Van Buren and Washington. Area appreciation tickets may be purchased at the exhibit box office.
The exhibit is open 10 a.m.
to
Heart of Texas Road Show in a new location this year
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
An annual tradition
AT LEFT: Barbara Fairchild and Roy Morris were part of the lineup of the Heart of Texas Road Show; BELOW: Fairchild and Pitcox (Photos submitted)
continued in a new location.
A popular Texas radio announcer hosted a live, one-day-only music show in Branson last week. The Heart of Texas Road Show has become an annual fall tradition in Branson.
This year’s show featured music greats Barbara Fairchild, Roy Morris, Mary Lou Turner and Tony Booth.
Founded and produced by Tracy Pitcox, the show is always popular with locals and Branson visitors alike. Pitcox, a radio personality from Brady, Texas, is also the founder of the Heart of
Country Music Museum and shows, and began taking the Texas-based show on the road to other locales. Last year’s show was held at the Mickey Gilley Grand Shanghai Theater.
This year’s Road Show was held at Branson’s popular new hotspot, Wranglers Honky Tonk. Located on Historic Highway 165, Wranglers is a favorite location for dining, drinks, dancing and lots of live music.
Pitcox, a tour guide who travels to Branson each year, brings a motorcoach group to the Heart of Texas Road Show, as well as a variety of other shows in Branson. his fall, in addition to enjoying the Heart of Texas Road Show, the group delighted in performances by Down Home Country, Doug Gabriel, Jimmy Fortune, Gene Watson and others. In the 35 years that Pitcox has worked as a tour guide he has brought thousands of music-loving Texas to the music mecca of Branson, Missouri.
6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. The Michaelangelo’s Sistine Chapel Exhibition can be found in the Shoppes at Branson Meadows, in the building formerly occupied by Tuesday Morning, 4310 Gretna Road.
• AUCTION
Continued from page 1C
this year in an automobile accident. They are grandparents to three - Luke, Zoe
and Bentley. Roger and Mary are excited about their new venture and look forward to working with the Branson Auc-
tion’s large customer base, but also the City of Branson, as they help boost tourism during each April and October auction.
Taney County 100 Club enjoyed success from charity auction
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A traditional part of the Branson Auction is the charity auction, held on the Thursday night, prior to the Branson Auction’s Friday sale. For the past several years, proceeds from the auction have benefited the Taney County 100 Club, an organization with a mission to provide financial support to the surviving spouse of an emergency service worker killed or catastrophically injured in the line of duty, within hours of the death or injury.
This fall’s charity auction featured a variety of show and attraction tickets, gift baskets, a $100 gift certificate towards
a Caribbean vacation, a ride-along with a Branson Police Department K-9 unit, collectibles and more. The auction’s highlight was a 2008 Mercedes Benz.
In addition to the live auction, the Taney County 100 maintained a booth at the Branson Auction event, where they sold merchandise, offered memberships and raffled off a gun.
This year’s charity auction was a huge success, according to the Taney County 100 Club’s Cory Roebuck.
“In total, we made over $14,000 from the event,” noted Roebuck. Tim Eschavarria from
Oklahoma was the high bidder on the Mercedes Benz. Joe Kelch of Illinois won the raffle of the gun at the Taney County 100 Club booth.
Roebuck expressed his thanks to the owners - both past and currentof the Branson Auction, saying, “We are eternally grateful for the generosity of Jim and Kathy Cox. They were our first lifetime members and will continue to be a part of our organization for years to come. We look forward to working with Roger and Mary to support our local first responders and their families. We can’t wait to see what this new partnership may bring.”
Fundraiser to benefit CAM begins Oct. 31
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
It is once again time for the biggest fundraiser of the year for Christian Action Ministries.
Festival of Trees is a unique event that runs from October 31 through December 7.
Visitors and local resi-
dents can purchase fully decorated trees, sponsored by area businesses, individuals and nonprofits. Each tree sports a unique theme. Additional decor is also available for sale.
Festival of Trees is located this year in Suite 1205 at the Branson Landing, across from Famous Footwear, near the south end of the Landing. The shop is open daily through December 7. Hours vary by day. Proceeds from sales of the trees and decor benefit Christian Action Ministries and food pantries of Taney County.
Getting ready for Ozark Mountain Christmas with Christmas decorating
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
It may not be Halloween yet, but it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas.
The fast food restaurants along the area known as Hamburger Hill seem to have an unofficial holiday decorating contest each year. The Steak and Shake team is getting in the hol-
iday spirit and getting a jump-start on their decorating.
Ozark Mountain Christmas starts next week, on November 1.
Decorating at Steak and Shake (Photo by K.D. Michaels)
Tree lighting events scheduled in Downtown Branson and at The Tracks
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Downtown –
A special holiday event is set for Sunday.
The lighting of the new, 30-foot Branson Brilliance Christmas Tree will give visitors and locals alike a chance to get into the holiday spirit.
The event, held in historic downtown Branson, will feature live holiday music from Branson’s Rick McEwen, performers from the Motown Downtown Show, and special
guest Jena Moulds.
The highlight of the ceremony is the lighting of the tree, located at Peddler Pete’s Tradin’ Post, 121 South Commercial Street in Branson.
The event will begin at 6 p.m., Sunday, October 27, and the public is encouraged to attend.
Track Family Fun Parks –
The Branson Christmas Coalition invites you to their 5th Annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting event.
This year’s theme is Hope and Hospitality.
The event is held at The Track Family Fun Parks. The tree is located between the Ferris Wheel and Branson Helicopter Tours. Attendees will enjoy holiday music prior to a countdown to the official lighting of the tree.
The Branson Christmas Coalition collaborated with OzarkMountainLegacy. org to create the event, which begins at 6:30 p.m.
Hollister Chamber of Commerce seeking sponsors for Santa in the Park
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
The Hollister Chamber of Commerce is seeking sponsors for one of their favorite holiday events.
Now is the time to sign up to sponsor Hollister’s popular Santa in the Park event, set for December 8.
There are several levels of sponsorship. For just $50, a nonprofit can host a table at the event. A Santa’s Pack Sponsorship of $200 allows a business the opportunity to set up a table at the Santa in the Park event.
A Santa’s Elf Sponsorship, at just $300, allows your business or nonprofit to have a banner displayed at the event, a logo on email announcements and on the event flyer, and the chance to set up a table.
For $400, a Santa’s
Sleigh Sponsor may display a banner, feature a logo on email announcements and event flyer, set up a table and receive special mention at Santa in the Park.
There are a limited number of Entertainment Sponsors, who, for $500, will
have a banner displayed at the event, special signage near the Entertainment area, a logo on email announcements and the event flyer, special mention at the event and the opportunity to have a table at Santa in the Park.
To become a sponsor for the 2024 Santa in the Park, contact the Hollister Area Chamber of Commerce, via email at info@hollisterchamber.net or by phone at 417-334-3050.
Deadline for sponsorship is November 15.
BOO! Area Halloween fun planned for children and families
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
With Halloween quickly approaching, there are a number of Halloween-related events scheduled throughout the area.
City of Hollister
The City of Hollister is providing safe trick-ortreating with a Trunk or Treat on Downing Street.
Set for Friday, October 25, the event will run from 5 to 6:30 p.m.
Branson RecPlex
Friday, October 25, is Branson’s Annual Boonanza at the Rec Plex. Hosted by Branson Parks and Recreation, the Boonanza features a food truck, bounce house, trick-or-treating, a costume contest, face painting, a marshmallow roast and more. The event gets underway at 6 p.m., at the Rec Plex, 1501 Branson Hills Parkway.
Rise Park Play
Rise Park Play, Branson’s newest indoor play venue, is offering a Fall Bash on Sunday at 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Youngsters will enjoy dancing, playing games, a dressup parade, pumpkin painting
and more. Admission is $25 for the first child and $15 for additional children. Rise Play Park is located at 3300 Gretna Road in Branson.
Taney County Animal Control
A Trick or Treat Adoption Event is set for October 26 at the Taney County Animal Shelter, 255 Critter Trail, in Hollister. The event, held from 1 to 3 p.m., will include candy, a pizza truck and photo ops. Admission is free but donations are accepted. Please, no masks. Lucky Dog Fun for the pets can be had at Lucky Dog Groomer on October 27, 12 to 4 p.m., when they host a Nail Trimming and Pet Costume Contest. The event, to benefit Children’s Miracle Network, will be held at the Branson West Walmart. Bloom Church
On October 27, Bloom Church is hosting a Trunk or Treat, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Bloom Church is located at 2353 State Highway 248, next to Casey’s. Branson MomCo
A Trunk or Treat event,
hosted by the Branson MomCo, will be held on October 29, 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Legacy Academy Campus, 949 Historic Highway 165, in Branson.
New Beginnings Fellowship
October 30 brings fun for the entire family, with the Fall Festival at New Beginnings Fellowship. Join them for candy, crafts, games and fun from 6 to 8 p.m. New Beginnings Fellowship is located at 151 Elm Street in Hollister.
King’s Chapel
On October 30, the King’s Chapel presents Candy Lane, a free event for kids that includes fun activities, prize giveaways, a puppet show and lots of candy. Candy Lane, at King’s Chapel at Music City Center, will run from 6 to 8 p.m.
Sanctuary of Hope
The Sanctuary of Hope is hosting a Fall Festival on Wednesday, October 30, beginning at 6 p.m. The event includes food, music, games and fun. Sanctuary of Hope is located at 1790 Bee Creek Road, Branson.
Cakes-n-Creams
A Trunk or Treat on Halloween night is set for Cakesn-Creams Dessert Parlor, 2805 W. 76 Country Boulevard. Guests are invited to come in costume, and enjoy some classic, family-friendly, spooky movies, such as “Scooby Doo” and “The Goonies.” The Trunk or Treat begins at 6 p.m., with movies running until 10 p.m.
Grace Community Assembly
Grace Community Assembly, 3101 Gretna Road, is holding a Trunk or Treat on Halloween from 6 to 8 p.m. Forsyth
On Halloween night, Forsyth is the site of a Trunk or Treat, complete with candy, games and a costume contest.
The event runs from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 15561 U.S. Highway 10, in the Stuff Your Face parking lot in Forsyth.
Merriam Woods
Merriam Woods is also hosting a Trunk or Treat in their City Hall Parking Lot on Thursday, October 31, 5 to 7 p.m.
Open Doors United Methodist
The Open Doors United Methodist Church in Blue Eye will host a Trunk or Treat on Halloween, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., at their 6238 State Highway 86 location.
Branson Landing
Branson Landing will hold their 18th Annual Safe Trick or Treat event from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 31. Businesses with a Halloween pumpkin sign in their window will be handing out candy at their location. The Thriller dancers will perform throughout the evening at various areas throughout the Branson Landing.
Tanger Outlet
The area’s biggest excitement on Halloween night
promises to be the all-new Heli-Halloween Candy Drop and Trunk or Treat event, at Branson’s Tanger Outlet. A variety of fun activities, giveaways, crafts and more await you at Tanger Outlet, 300 Tanger Boulevard in Branson. The event runs from 5 to 7 p.m., and the evening’s highlight will be watching Branson Helicopter Tours as they shower the area with candy from above. Stay safe!
With so many options, your family is certain to have a fun Halloween. Remember to watch for children out and about on area streets on Halloween night. Let’s all do our part to keep the children safe!
Beef and Rice Noodle Salad
BY CHEF JEFF WOODWARD, The Rogue Chef TIME: 30 minutes SERVINGS: 4 INGREDIENTS: ¼
• 1 C Zucchini, julienned
• 2 Medium Carrots, thinly sliced
• 1 Celery Rib, sliced
INSTRUCTIONS: Dressing
1. Whisk the soy sauce, lime juice, sugar, rice vinegar, ginger root, and sesame oil in a small bowl until completely combined.
2. Set aside. Steak
1. Sprinkle steak with pepper.
Election cake – a forgotten American tradition
Election Cake: Thirty quarts of flour, 10 pound butter, 14 pound sugar, 12 pound raisins, 3 doz eaggs, one pint wine, one quart brandy, 4 ounces cinnamon, 4 ounces fine colander seed, 3 ounces ground alspice; wet flour with milk to the consistence of bread over night, adding one quart yeast; the next morning work the butter and sugar together for half an hour, which will render the cake much lighter and whiter; when it has rise light, work in every other ingredient except the plumbs, which work in when going into the oven. Simmons, American Cookery
BY JANET STEINKAMP, Editor
Election cake is a long forgotten American tradition that dates back to Colonial America. Election cake was served after voters did their civic duty. Why not bring back this lovely cake and tradition? Cast your vote on election day, then eat election cake.
In Colonial times, election days were festive events, and celebrating involved election cake.
Because of sparsely located polling places in the early days of the United States, men traveled far and wide, often traveling for days, to cast ballots in local and national elections. In towns hosting elections, women spent pre-election days cre-
ating fruity, alcohol-based cakes commonly weighing up to 10 pounds to serve to all the men going to the polls. The original recipes for election cake were overwhelming. Preparing such large cakes would take several strong arms to mix ten pounds of butter into fourteen pounds of sugar, and beating the mixture for half an hour.
With this American tradition, each voter would receive a slice of election cake after voting and exiting the polls. The first recipe for American Election Cake appears in 1796 in the first U.S. cookbook, Amelia Simmons’ “American Cookery.” Other records showed such cakes being
baked to celebrate Election
Day as early as 1771 in Connecticut, and the tradition spread throughout the Midwest and West in the nineteenth century.
What is election cake?
This interesting cake is a cross between a yeast bread and a light fruit cake.
Need something for sustenance while watching this year’s election results? Get out and vote and then enjoy a slice of this sweet yeast cake. If you are serving this for election night parties, don’t forget the hard cider. Election cake: Make American cake again and celebrate democracy with this Bundt cake recipe.
INGREDIENTS
2 envelopes (.25 ounces each) dry active yeast
1 cup warm water (not hot) about 105 degrees
F.
3 cups all-purpose flour (divided)
1 1/2 sticks (12 tablespoons) unsalted butter, at room temperature, plus extra for greasing pan
1 cup mixed dried fruit (golden raisins, cranberries, pitted prunes, dates, etc.), chopped if large 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons dark brown sug-
ar, packed (divided)
• 1/3 cup American whiskey or bourbon (apple juice can replace the alcohol)
1. Sprinkle the yeast over the warm water in a medium bowl. Stir a few times and let stand to allow the yeast to dissolve and begin bubbling, 1 to 2 minutes. Sift 1 1/2 cups of the flour into the bowl and stir until mostly smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and set aside in a warm place for about 30 minutes. The mixture will expand, loosen in texture and will have large bubbles on the surface.
2. Grill, covered, over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side (medium, 140°; medium well, 145°).
3. Let stand for 5 minutes before slicing.
Noodles
1. Prepare the rice noodles according to package directions.
2. Drain, rinse with cold water and drain again.
Presentation
1. Combine noodles, zucchini, carrots, celery, and
steak in a large bowl.
2. Toss with dressing.
3. Serve warm. GO ROGUE by adding Sea Beans to the vegetable medley.
Want Chef Jeff to make this delicious dish for you? Contact him at www. TheRogueChefBranson. com .
Democracy at its sweetest: The Election Cake originated in colonial times and was used after the Revolution to encourage citizens to vote. (Top photo: Melissa Gaman; Bottom photo: Christinascucina.com)
2. While that sits, generously butter a 12-cup Bundt pan and set aside. Place the dried fruit, 2 tablespoons of the brown sugar and all of the whiskey in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Heat in the microwave until hot and bubbling, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir and set aside to cool. In a medium bowl, whisk the remaining 1 1/2 cups flour with the cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg and salt. Beat the butter with the remaining 1/2 cup brown and the granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until combined (the mixture may look slightly curdled at this stage), and then add 1 teaspoon of the vanilla. Beat in the yeast mixture and then reduce the speed to medium-low and gradually beat in the flour mixture. Add the plumped dried fruit with any remaining liquid and beat on medium speed until the fruit is well blended. The dough should be soft and elastic at this point.
4. Transfer the dough to the
prepared Bundt pan and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place until the dough fills the pan about three-quarters of the way, about 2 hours. When is the cake is almost done rising, preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
5. Bake the cake until golden brown and a skewer inserted comes out clean, 40 to 45 minutes. Cool for 30 minutes in the pan on a wire rack. Loosen the sides with a small metal spatula and turn onto the wire rack to cool completely.
6. Before serving, stir the powdered sugar with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon vanilla and 1 tablespoon milk. Gradually add as much as needed of the second tablespoon of milk to make a thick glaze that will just gently run. Spoon over the top of the cake, allowing the glaze to slowly run down the outside and inside of the cake. Decorate with patriotic decorations, if desired.
NOTE: This cake is great made a day or two in advance. Just hold off on the glaze until you are ready to serve. Cookingchanneltv.com
VOTE
“Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vote except the American people themselves— and the only way they could do this is by not voting.” Franklin D. Roosevelt
LARRY DABLEMONT is an outdoor publisher, columnist, author, speaker, naturalist and outdoorsman.
There are two Little Piney Rivers in Missouri, one flowing into the Gasconade River near Arlington and the other flowing into the Big Piney west of Houston, Missouri. Because of declining water levels and the drying up of Ozark springs, you would never believe we once floated and fished the latter. Today that Little Piney is more of a creek than a river, but once it was quite a float fishing stream, at least the lower half of it, which flows in the Big Piney near the Dogs Bluff bridge on Highway 17.
What memories I have of that stream! I actually guided a few of my float fishing clients on that little river in
BY ERIC BURLISON, Member
of Congress representing the 7th District of Missouri
L
ast week, I hosted my second annual agriculture tour, where we learned more about the farms and businesses in Southwest Missouri that nourish our nation.
On the tour, we visited the
a 14-foot wooden johnboat when I was a boy. It was a super smallmouth stream, and my dad’s biggest brown bass came from one of its eddies when I was about fourteen or fifteen years old. But he didn’t land it… it jumped out of water only a few feet from the boat and threw the lure. It is the lure I want to write about today. That lure was a four- inch long ‘Cisco Kid,’ brown and white, jointed and with a metal bill that made it run about three feet deep. I still have it and can’t catch anything on it today, but you can understand why I keep it in my office. Of course, there are many lures in my office, not kept there because of their value but because of the memories that go with them. There is that wiggle wart that we used on a teal-hunting float trip one September day years ago when we put one fishing rod and one lure in the boat not expecting fishing to be much good. Were we wrong about that. All day long that little brown and orange wiggle wart caught bass to the point we
forgot about the teal ducks. It is worth five times what I paid for it.
If you have wiggle warts, I have seen them selling from ten to fifteen dollars at lure shows. I have an old Rapala lure that was made in the fifties which has the name “Rapala-Finland’ across the bottom. It is worth some money because it is in the box it came in. Old lures do have value, but those in the box they were sold in are worth even more. Also, any of the old 1920s and ‘30s wooden lures with glass eyes that are in good condition will bring some money. Some of those have four trebles, which was eventually outlawed. I saw one of them sell for $250. This sounds preposterous and I wouldn’t have believed it either, but I have seen lures sell for hundreds of dollars when lure collectors get together. There are some which bring thousands.
Old friend Dennis Whiteside sold hundreds of old lures to collectors from Japan and made a small fortune doing it. He can tell you about that if you come
to my big swap meet at my newly finished nature center-museum near Houston, Mo. But there is a big-time lure collector who will be there, too—Jerry McCoy of Bull Shoals, Arkansas. I have fished with him on occasion, and I have never known a man who has his knowledge of antique fishing and hunting gear. One of the most knowledgeable and colorful of fishermen, Jerry will be selling antique items and lures and also buying some. If you have old lures or outdoor items, bring them by and tempt Jerry with them. He purchases a lot of antique outdoor gear for a shop he has a mile west of Bull Shoals dam. That opening day precedes the bringing in of exhibits. We have antique johnboats in place already and a 1920 pool table.
It is this Saturday, Oct 26, from 9 to 3. In addition to Jerry, there will be Duane Hada, one of the best wildlife artists in the nation. He will paint a picture of the Big Piney and we will raffle it off. Some of his original paintings sell for thousands
so if you go home with it, you will have some valuable art. I will be there selling off some of my office collections and my books and magazines, and I think I will have 200 old lures for sale. We will have chili and crackers for those who are hungry, plus some baked goods. If you want to bring your own outdoor gear to sell, just bring it. I think it is going to be a good day, and I am anxious to show off our new building. There is no charge for admission. For more information, call me at 417-777-5227 or email me at lightninridge47@gmail.com. See Duane Hada’s website, too.
Special Burlison Brief: 2024 Agriculture Tour
Joplin Regional Stockyards, Cloud’s Meats, Carthage Tech Center, Runnels Farms, and S&H Farm Supply. Joplin Regional Stockyards
Joplin Regional Stockyards, is owned by the Moore family. Jackie Moore, who started auctioneer school at just 13, soon began conducting auctions on his own, selling everything from antiques to livestock. Under his leadership, his family now operates the largest cow/calf auction in the nation, with over 10 acres under roof and 50 weeks of cattle sales annually.
Cloud’s Meats Cloud’s Meats was found-
ed by Emmett and Pauline Hammond and passed on to Lloyd and Pat Count in 1959. Together with their children, Mike and Karen, they built the foundation of a family-run business. When Lloyd and Pat retired, Mike and his wife took over the company. Eventually, their sons, Chris and Andy, joined the operation as well.
Carthage Tech Center
Carthage Technical Center (CTC) is one of 57 Area Career Centers in Missouri that serves students from Carthage, Carl Junction and Webb City. CTC offers relevant, industry-aligned training in 12 different career
programs. Runnels Farms Runnels Farms is located outside of Jasper, Missouri, where it is fully owned and operated by Kirk and Sandy Runnels. Their operation consists of 250 head of cattle, a 600-head feedlot, a farm-to-table retail meat business, and a row crop operation. sold directly to the consumer or put back into the beef industry to create better genetics for generations to come.
S&H Farm Supply S&H was founded in Lockwood, MO, in 1969 by local farmers Wayne Schnelle and Erwin Hedeman. Today,
S&H Farm Supply, Inc, is owned by Eric Schnelle and family, and employs over 200 individuals at six locations across Southwest Missouri.
S&H Farm Supply, Inc., established their Joplin store in 2008, in order to better serve
customers in the four-state area. It was a fantastic tour.
Thank you to the businesses who opened their doors to us and to everyone who showed up to support our agriculture community.
My dad, Farrel Dablemont, fishing on Little Piney in the ‘60s (Photo submitted by Larry Dablemont)
Notice of Public Hearing on November 6 at 5:45
P.M. at the Village of Indian Point office located at 957 Indian Point Road.
Branson Lakeview Estates located at Parcel # 129.0-31-001-001-011.000
on Crow’s Nest Trail is requesting a Zone Map Amendment from Residential (R-1) to Commercial 2 Planned Development District (C2-PDD). Public comment will be accepted at the meeting.
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!
CELEBRATE RECOV-
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 417559-3892
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.
AMERICAN LEGION
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
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.
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!
I WAS OUT WALKING, and I ran into my 80 year old friend named Smokey Bear. He was talking about the clean air. If you smell smoke look for the fire, because it may burn your house. Please don’t throw away your cigarettes outside and remember fireworks start fires. The weather is dry so don’t burn your house down and don’t burn my house either. Please pay attention.
GARAGE SALE, Saturday, October 26, 9 a.m.5 p.m. 151 Pioneer Way, Hollister. Many items: household, tools, collectibles, glassware, DVDs, CDs, furniture and much more. Everything must go. CASH ONLY.
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! FOR SALE: Deeded ownership at Wilderness Club, Ridgedale. 15,000 pts. Numerous benefits included. $28,000. 540849-5425
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: 417335-1347.
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
FREE ESTIMATES AND TIMELY RESPONSE. Full remodels, decks, pole barns, garages, fencing and small projects. Call 417-699-1635
2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath townhouse, 3/4 of a mile from Branson Junior High. Covered parking, private deck, completely remodeled. No pets. $975 plus deposit. 417-3370077 or 417-231-7129. LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
FOR
302 AC± | 4 TRACTS CLAY CO, IL
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!
MR. GILBERTI’S PLACE. Need P.M. pasta cook and prep cook. Fun, working atmosphere. Come in and fill out an application. 1451 Acacia Club Rd., Hollister.
On this date in history...
• 1930 transcontinental and Western Air (TWA) begins first scheduled U.S. transcontinental air service between NYC and Los Angeles, California; 30-hour trip includes overnight stop in Kansas City, MO.
• 1930 Italian Dictator, Benito Mussolini, promises to remain dictator for 30 years
1954 President Dwight
D. Eisenhower offers aid to the Prime Minister of South Vietnam
1960 First electronic wrist watch placed on sale in New York City
1962 American author John Steinbeck awarded Nobel Prize for Literature
• 1964 The Rolling Stones make their first appearance on “The Ed Sullivan Show”
• 1986 International Red Cross ousted from South
Africa 2021 Afghanistan to become world’s worst humanitarian crisis as nearly 23 million people face acute hunger over winter according to the World Food Program
2021 Elon Musk makes a record $25 billion in one day pushing his estimated worth to $255.2 billion, likely making him the richest person ever.
Sudoku
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