Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. – Hebrews 10:23
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Week of events to recognize and honor veterans
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Veterans Homecoming Week is one of the most special weeks in the city of Branson - a destination that honors our veterans each and every day. During Veterans Homecoming Week, traditionally November 5-11, veterans from every branch of the service, and all wars and conflicts, are recognized as heroes for their sacrifices and their bravery, and thanked warmly for fighting for our nation and our freedoms.
Branson is the scene of a week-long unparalleled celebration, with seven days of shows, ceremonies, mini-re-
unions and more, in honor of those brave men and women who served our country. Veterans Week officially begins on November 5, but this year Branson is starting early, with some events taking place on Monday, November 4. A schedule of Branson’s Veterans Home-
coming activities is below: Monday, November 4
10 a.m. - Veterans Show, Clay Cooper Theater. Call for ticket info, 417-879-6060.
4:30 p.m. - Branson Mayor›s Welcome to Veterans Homecoming Week Address - Fire Station 4, 250 Champagne Boulevard. Attend in person or via Facebook Live at facebook.com/ BransonCity. Week of November 5-10
Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall - Fire Station 4, 250 Champagne Blvd. Visit this half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, on
Branson Mayor to proclaim first week in November as ‘Faith, Family, Flag, and Fun Week’
BY GARY
J. GROMAN, Independent Journalist
While proclaiming Branson, Missouri, as “America’s Most Patriotic City,” Mayor Larry Milton said, “The city of Branson is all about Faith, Family, Flag, and Fun.” He
notes that Branson’s emphasis on “Faith, Family, Flag, and Fun” lets potential visitors know the foundation of the entertainment experience they will experience when they visit Branson as compared to other tourist destina-
tions around the country, such as San Franciso, New York City, Las Vegas, New Orleans, Nashville and others.
Mayor Milton said,
“While ‘Faith, Family, Flag, and Fun’ and ‘Patriotism’ are integral parts of the fun
and entertainment experience Branson offers every day, there is one week of the year that really highlights, in dramatic fashion, what that means to Branson, the first week of November.”
He said that during this
week, Branson begins its celebrations of “Ozark Mountain Christmas” and “Veteran’s Homecoming Week.” These two events highlight and proclaim to the world that ‘Faith, Fam-
Skaggs Foundation grant to fund Pathways Project in area schools
Submitted to Branson Globe Skaggs Foundation has awarded a $7,500 grant to support the Pathways Education Project, an initiative designed to provide students in Stone and Taney counties with access to educational resources to combat domestic minor sex trafficking (DMST). This grant will be used for education to empower our kids to use social media safely.
“Social media is a hot button topic in our living rooms, schools and even in Washington, D.C. Social media is not the enemy. Our kids and their parents just need some information on how to navigate it safely,” said Veloris Juneman, founder of The Pathways Project.
Russ Tuttle, founder of The Stop Trafficking Project®, is a widely recognized authority on this subject, using the BeAlert® Strategy via school assemblies designed to educate and empower students to be safer
online. After many years of presenting their BeAlert® Strategy to more than 257,000 individuals, including more than 116,000 students, primarily in Kansas and Missouri, their proven strategy first presents to the adults in the community followed by age-appropriate presentations to students.
BeAlert® presentations utilize humor, authenticity and real facts about technology and how students can keep themselves and their friends safer online. “The influence of the news and popular media creates a very narrow view of how the vulnerability of our students is
Photo courtesy of College of the Ozarks
least
Help facilitate adoptions with Forever Home Coffee
Branson-based company, Forever Home Roast.
Forever Home Roast is the result of a passion for helping people with the expenses of adoption, shared by founders Matt Grindstaff and Jerry Sanderson. Matt, who serves on staff at Elevate Branson and is familiar with many types of family needs through that ministry, shared that he and his wife initially were unable to have children, so they explored adoption and learned how expensive it was. Although eventually able to have a biological daughter, they could not shake the feeling of urgen-
cy regarding families who longed to adopt but found the process cost-prohibitive, as expenses for legal fees, travel to meet children and bring them home, and more, can add up to thousands of dollars.
Jerry’s story is similar; after two biological children, he and his wife adopted from the foster system, which is less expensive but can still involve significant costs, including indirect ones such as home modifications or a larger vehicle, particularly if special needs children are involved. Jerry has since been active in leadership of area church
ministries helping support families who wish to foster and/or adopt.
A conservative estimate is that over 120,000 U.S. children are waiting to be adopted in a given year; the number swells to over 160 million worldwide. Those figures do not even start to reflect the number of abortions that might be prevented with better adoption information to birth moms and financial assistance to the many couples—some sources estimate over 20 million—wanting to adopt.
Forever Home Roast offers high-end specialty coffees, small-batch roast-
ed and blended right here in the Branson area Ozarks from responsibly sourced coffee beans. At least 10% of each sale and up to 50% of net profits go to support organizations that facilitate adoptions, or directly to families hoping and planning to adopt. Locally, shoppers can browse the selection at Rhodes Family Price Chopper on 76 Country Blvd. in Branson, or at Mix ‘N’ Save, in the Branson Meadows center on Gretna Rd. For more information, use the contact form on the website or email info@foreverhomeroast.com.
Hurricane assistance to include an Ozark Mountain Christmas
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff
Writer
With the help of the Convoy of Honor, Branson area residents and visitors have an opportunity to provide a special Ozark Mountain Christmas to the people of Erwin, Tennessee, where over 2,200 people have lost nearly everything in the recent hurricanes.
Convoy of Honor Patriots, who will be in the area during Branson’s Veterans
Homecoming Week, will be providing tractor-trailers and box trucks to transport donations. Convoy of Honor will have trucks set up to accept donations at Table Rock Lake State Park, 5272
Historic St. Hwy. 165, from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday, November 10, and Monday, November 11. (The Convoy will be using the same location as a base camp Nov. 8 through 11, if anyone needs to drop off donations earlier.)
Organizer Mona Miller
said she would like to make this a special Christmas, including dinner with all the trimmings for people who have been working tirelessly in recovery and shelter efforts as well as those displaced by the storms. The group also wants to decorate the relief center as a Christmas wonderland, a place to relax and take a break from hard work.
Following are some suggested items to donate:
being exploited,” Russ says.
“I’m not angry with kids and I’m not against technology. My mission is to tell students the truth and to tell them they don’t need to feel embarrassed, afraid, or ashamed to talk to an adult.”
The Pathways Education Project focuses on bridging
Artificial Christmas trees
• Christmas stockings
Christmas lights
• Ornaments
Decks of cards, game score pads, pens and pencils
Toothbrushes
• Board games, wrapped and labeled with age range
Baby, toddler and children’s gifts
• Candy and food to prepare a Christmas dinner
the gap between classroom learning and real-world skills through education, collaboration and support. The funding from Skaggs Foundation will help provide access to additional support systems that guide students toward making their online life safer.
“We are incredibly grateful to Skaggs Foundation for their generous contribution,”
Small propane tanks to fuel donated stoves
Hats and coats (Think staying warm!)
“This is God’s way of healing the hearts of us all,” said Miller. “The gift is in the giving, and I was led to this; it is God working in me. I trust the great people of Branson will help lift up our ‘Mountain Kin,’ during this holiday season.”
The Convoy of Honor will be pulling out the morning of November 12,
said Veloris. “This grant will help us expand our efforts to equip students with the tools and knowledge they need.”
heading to Tennessee with the donations collected. If you prefer to make a tax-deductible cash donation to help with fuel costs for deliveries, that can be done through CashApp ($bugtussling). Another way to give is through USA SuperHeroes, the nonprofit of entertainer Steve Spurgeon who has been actively helping in Tennessee since the storms. Call 417-239-4320 with any questions.
ier future for everyone here. We’re proud to partner with The Pathways Coalition, and we are excited to see the positive impact the Education Program will bring to our community.”
“Making a difference in Stone and Taney counties is at the heart of everything we do,” said Nyssa Berhorst, Skaggs Legacy Grant Administrator at Skaggs Foundation. “We’ve seen firsthand how each grant helps our neighbors, friends and families thrive. This work is about more than just funding, it’s about building a healthier, stronger community together.
The Pathways Project is excited to be able to bring this opportunity to Stone and Taney County districts, and the hope is that school districts will take advantage of the opportunity. Bringing this type of presentation to schools was one of the group’s first goals, and the Skaggs Foundation is helping make it a reality.
“At Skaggs Foundation, our mission is to strengthen the health and wellness of Stone and Taney counties,” said Meghan Connell, President of Skaggs Foundation. “Investing in our youth means investing in a health-
This grant comes at a time when schools are increasingly focusing on not only academic education but also the life skills necessary for students to understand how their actions can expose them to being exploited. Russ reminds adults, “It’s the role of parents/guardians and other responsible adults to proactively teach students to use technology safely and what to do when they feel unsafe.”
The Pathways Education Project aligns with local and national efforts to improve educational outcomes and ensure all students have the chance to succeed.
About Pathways Project Pathways’ mission is to end human trafficking in the Ozarks through education, collaboration and advocacy. We meet on the third Tuesday of every month. Please contact Pathways at info@ pathwayspco.org for more information about the grant or how to get involved.
PHOTO & STORY BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
(Photo courtesy Skaggs Foundation)
Community Prayer brings hope and encouragement
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
In and around Branson and southwest Missouri, several organizations and groups are finding value and encouragement in joining together for prayer. One of those is the Community Prayer Event hosted quarterly by Elevate Branson, held most recently on Friday, October 25. Bryan Stallings of Elevate Branson opened the gathering with a reference to Philippians 4:6, a reminder to turn anxieties and concerns
over to God and thank Him for his care and provision. Attendees then saw video recalling the power of prayer in the stories of Nicholas Winton, who prayed fervently as he rescued many Jewish children during the Holocaust; and Desmond Doss, who prayed as a World War II combat medic that God would keep helping him save “just one more” soldier during the Battle of Okinawa. Other video testimonies recalled a drop in homicides in a section of Cali, Columbia, as people gathered to
pray; and a turnaround in a blighted Sacramento, California, apartment community as a result of prayer and the consistent presence of caring Christians. Inspired by those testimonies, community leaders and friends took turns leading the group in prayer for several aspects of life and government. Many focused on the phrase, “Be the hands and feet of Jesus in our community,” realizing that while Branson is blessed with wonderful shows, attractions and conservative
values, there are also significant needs among many segments of the population.
Prayer points included local law enforcement, government and first responders; schools, families, single parents and children; local businesses and tourists; people in recovery or living in poverty; the homeless and those with mental health issues; and local nonprofits and churches.
Stay connected and plan to join the next community prayer event by visiting www.ElevateBranson.org.
Ozark Mountain Legacy
also offers a United Prayer Room focusing on specific topics for each day of the week; visit www.OzarkMountainLegacy.org/pray to get involved.
Fundraiser provides money for Junior Auxiliary of Taney County projects
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A recent fundraiser at a popular eatery raised needed funds for a local nonprofit.
Mr. G’s Pizza was the site for food, fun and generosity when the Junior Auxiliary of Taney County was the beneficiary of a fundraising event.
September 25 and 26 were JATC Days at Mr. G’s, as owner Ryan
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ily, Flag, and Fun’ are not just words but vital parts of our community. Milton said he plans to present to the Branson Board of Aldermen with a proclamation declaring the first week in November of each year as “Faith, Family, Flag, and Fun Week” in Branson.
Ozark Mountain Christmas runs annually from November 1 through January 7 of the following year. From the captivating live shows that bring the season to life to the dazzling light displays that transform the
Holmes and the community showed their support for the service organization.
“Mr. G’s owner, Ryan Holmes, continues to give back to his community on an annual basis with this fundraiser, where he donates 50% of food receipts from those two days to JATC,” explained JATC’s Sheryl Schiller. “This was our 10th JATC Days at Mr. G’s.”
town into a winter wonderland, this celebration offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors of all ages. With Branson’s amazing Christmas shows, Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas, the Christmas Tree Trail, millions of twinkling Christmas lights, and shopping as its foundation, Ozark Mountain Christmas is one of the nation’s most acclaimed Christmas events. It is a one-of-a-kind holiday experience that’s unique, fun and entertaining while celebrating and honoring the traditional American Christmas and the reason for the season.
Schiller continued, “Junior Auxiliary of Taney County members, their families and friends, gathered to partake of the delicious food, knowing that the children and families of Taney County would be the true beneficiaries.”
JATC earned $660 from food receipts during the two-day event, and Holmes made an additional donation of $340, bringing the
Patriotism and the honoring of Veterans, our active-duty military, and their families are a daily part of the very fiber spirit of Branson. Branson’s Veterans Homecoming Week each year leading up to and ending on Veteran’s Day highlights that spirit. It transcends the typical Veteran gatherings by combining fun, honor and appreciation, attracting thousands of Veterans and their families nationwide. Over the years, it has become a poignant reunion for those who served and their families with a variety of events, including honorary banquets, memo-
total received by JATC to $1,000.
Said Holmes, “I appreciate everything Junior Auxiliary does for the children in our community. These ladies work hard to make that happen.”
Monies raised from this event will help support several of JATC’s annual projects, including Santa’s Gift House, set for December 14. Some of the group’s
rial services, parades and gala shows, all designed to recognize and honor the sacrifices and services of Veterans and their families.
In announcing his intent to issue the “Faith, Family, Flag, and Fun Week” proclamation, Milton equated it to Mother’s Day. We honor our mothers every day, but once a year, we show special appreciation. That’s what “Faith, Family, Flag, and Fun Week” does: sets aside one week to show additional appreciation and commitment to what “Faith, Family, Flag, and Fun” means to Branson.
additional projects include Tender Critters, Celebrate Reading, Kindness Effect Cards, and Steam Punk Academy. They also provide scholarships for students in each of the local high schools and provide reading materials for children in Taney County.
“JATC is more than a nonprofit organization. It is a group of women united by a single cause,” said
Schiller. “We are dedicated to helping and making a difference in the lives of the children in Taney County. That’s the magic of JATC.”
Founded in 1998, JATC has continued to grow and now has approximately 40 active members, giving more than 4,000 volunteer hours each year to help the children of our community.
Large turnout for the prayer event at Elevate Branson. Bryan Stallings is standing at far left. (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas)
A separate switch
By Stephanie Callahan, Owner/Lightspeed Electrical
Many
have a
HOW does this happen?
Sometimes the original fixture was just a fan or just a light, so the single switch was sufficient. But upon replacing the
HOW is that fixed? We would have to run a “Switch Leg” (or extra length of wire) by fishing it above the ceiling and behind the drywall to the existing switch. Another hole must be cut in next to the original switch and a larger box installed to accommodate two switches. Often
Stephanie Callahan, Owner/Lightspeed Electrical
this requires cutting a small hole in the drywall up near the ceiling to guide the wires through (see picture) during the fishing process. That hole will then require a blank plate to cover it or some drywall patching.
If you are getting a new ceiling fan/light, or you now want to control the fan and the light separately, call the team at Lightspeed Electrical. We can help. Call us at 417239-5050.
display all week.
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, BVTF Veterans VillageBallparks of America, Building 2 and 3, 1000 Pat Nash Drive. Free lunch daily for Veterans, Day Room, Vendor Room and Veterans Service Room. For information call Becky at 417-332-3557 or email Beck_jewsbury@ wgresort.com.
2 p.m. daily – “Breaking the Silence” - Stories of Vietnam Veterans, Royal Oak Forum in the Keeter Center, College of the Ozarks. First come, first served seating. Play is approximately 1 hour and 14 minutes. For more information and reservation, call 417-690-2929. Tuesday, November 5
10 a.m. - Veterans Week opening ceremony - Branson Veterans of America 913, Patriots Park, College of the Ozarks. Free admission. Reading of proclamation by Mayor Larry Milton, keynote address by Brigadier General James Schreffler, wreath-laying ceremony and more, 417294-0030.
2 p.m. - BVTF opening ceremony, Mickey Gilley’s Shanghai Theatre, 3255 W. 76 Country Boulevard. Free admission, open to the public. For more information, call 417-332-3566 or email Becky_Jewsbury@ wgresort.com.
lies. For more information, call Dee 870-421-3511.
Wednesday, November 6
8:30 a.m. - Military film fest – “The Girl Who Wore Freedom,” Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex, 3562 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway. Free for Veterans, $6 for additional guests.
11 a.m. - Vietnam Veterans reunion - Americinn by Wyndham Branson, 275 Tanger Blvd. Hot meal, entertainment, door prizes and special guest - author and Wolfhound’s Army Veteran, John Quintrell; RSVP with Dee at 870-421-3511.
Thursday, November 7
8:30 a.m. - Sandbox Party - Mel’s Hard Luck Diner, 2800 West 76 Country Boulevard. Mel’s is providing breakfast for those who served in the Gulf War or after. No admission charge. RSVP with Dee at 870-4213511.
8:30 a.m. - Military film fest, “The Unimaginable Journey of Peter Ertel,” Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex, 3562 Shepherd of the Hills. Free for all veterans, $6 for additional guests.
12 p.m. - Homefront Heroes (spouses) SaluteAmericinn by Wyndham Branson, 275 Tanger Blvd. Entertainment, door prizes and hot meal. RSVP with Dee at 870-421-3511 or online at www.veteransshow. com.
Network to pay for all events and activities during Homecoming Week.
Friday, November 8
8 a.m. - POW/MIA Remembrance Service, College of the Ozarks Patriots Park. Hosted by the POW/MIA Network.
8:30 a.m. - Military film fest – “The Seabees on Iwo Jima,” Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex, 3562 Shepherd of the Hills. Free for all veterans, $6 for any additional guests.
12 p.m. - Women Veterans Rose Petal Ceremony, Stone Castle, 3050 Green Mountain Drive. Women veterans free, other adults $12, children $6. Register online at bransonveterans.com or pay at the door. For more information, call 417-3323557 or email Becky_jewsbury@wgresort.com.
2 p.m. - World War II and Korean War Veterans reunion, Americinn by Wyndham Branson, 275 Tanger Blvd. No admittance charge. Coffee, dessert, door prizes. RSVP to Kathy, Mac 417231-1283.
Saturday, November 9
formation, call Dee at 870421-3511.
2 p.m. - Medics, nurses and combat veterans reunion - Grand Pavilion at Westgate Branson, 2201 Roark Valley Road. Join your brothers and sisters in arms for a time of bonding and fellowship. Free event. Open to the public. For more info, contact Becky at 417-332-3557 or email Becky_jewsbury@ wgresort.com
Sunday, November 10
8:30 a.m. - 11th annual Navy Memorial Service, Grand Pavilion at Westgate Resort, 2201 Roark Valley Road. Public bell tolling ceremony to honor the lives and service of Naval shipmates. Coffee, keynote speaker and entertainment, followed by the service. For more information, call Becky at 417-332-3557 or email Becky_jewsbury@ wgresort.com
8:30 a.m. - Military film fest, “Day of Days: June 6, 1944,” Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex, 3562 Shepherd of the Hills. Free for all veterans, $6 for additional guests.
10 a.m. - Worship service with Barbara Fairchild, Clay Cooper Theatre, 3216 West 76 Country Boulevard. For more information, call 417879-6060.
5 p.m. - Opening ceremony - Americana Theater, 2905 West 76 Country Boulevard, No admission charge. Open to veterans and fami-
4 p.m. - Pizza Ranch fundraiser, 1464 State Highway 248. All tips and 10% of sales will benefit the POW
8:30 a.m. - 15th annual Walmart Tribute to the Veterans Show, Mansion Theatre, 189 Expressway Lane. The event will be co-hosted by Branson favorites Barbara Fairchild and Roy Morris. Special guest speakerauthor and Army retiree, Lt. Col. Kurt Carlson, former TWA Flight 847 Hostage in 1985.
8:30 a.m. - Military film fest – “They Volunteered for This: Merrill’s Marauders,” Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex, 3562 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway. Free for all veterans and $6 for additional guests.
11:30 a.m. - Walmart tribute lunch, Branson Meadows, 4562 Gretna Road - following the 15th Annual Walmart Tribute to Veterans Show. Lunch will be served until 1:30 pm. For more in-
5 p.m. - 28th annual Military Gala and Banquet, Chateau on the Lake, 415 North State Highway 265. All branches, all wars welcome. Public invited. Dinner, USMC birthday cake cutting, DJ/dancing, fireworks, business attire, after 5, uniforms, mess dress, formal wear. Reservations required, 417-3364232. Tickets $69 each. Monday, November 11
7 a.m. - Veterans Day Sunrise Service, College of the Ozarks, Alumni Veterans Memorial.
11 a.m. - Annual Veterans Day Parade, downtown Branson, BVA 913. For more info, call 417-294-0030.
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417 Freedom Fighters hold flag wave
A portion of the east end of the Branson strip was lined with flag-waving citizens on Saturday, encouraging your vote in the upcoming election. The 417 Freedom Fighters, a group made up of residents from Springfield and the surrounding area, traveled to Branson for a Flag Wave event. Approximately 40 vehicles, many sporting American flags, formed a caravan that traveled south from Ozark to Branson Saturday afternoon. The group set up in the empty parking lot across from the Branson United Methodist Church, where individuals lined the road, waving flags and holding signs encouraging Americans to vote for former President Donald Trump as our next U.S. President in the November General Election. Response was mainly positive, as was evidenced by the cheers, words of encouragement and honking horns as vehicles passed by. (STORY AND PHOTOS BY K.D. MICHAELS)
Open house held: New management brings needed changes to The Penleigh
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A Branson apartment complex is under new management, and held an open house to celebrate.
Residents of The Penleigh, as well as prospective residents and community members, gathered on Saturday to enjoy food and fun, and to celebrate ongoing changes and improvements at the apartment complex
Located on Francis Street in the heart of Branson, The Penleigh offers comfortable apartment living for singles, couples and families. With 325 units, The Penleigh provides a lot of extras for their residents, without the extra cost.
A recent rotation in management has resulted in some needed changes at The Penleigh.
Hollie Sturms-Sarpong is the new property manager at The Penleigh. Sturms-Sarpong has a background of working with low-income properties.
“I have redone a few properties, so they brought me in to redo this property. Most recently I was in Ozark at Town and Country.”
Of the property, Sturms-Sarpong shared, “We have studio and one-bedroom units. The rent includes utilities. We have a resort-style swimming pool, a big BBQ area, a laundry facility, a fitness center and a big clubhouse.”
Sturms-Sarpong spoke of some of the changes she and her team have already made at The Penleigh.
“We’ve brought on security. They are here from 5 p.m. to 5 a.m. We’ve really enforced our rules in
the lease. We’ve cleaned up the trash. We’re going to get back to what it was meant to be, where it is safe for anyone to be here, and can enjoy being here,” said Sturms-Sarpong. “We have a whole new crew. Drugs are one thing we do not tolerate. We do work with the Branson PD.”
The Penleigh does currently have units available. To apply, just go to thepenleigh.com. Current application fee has been reduced to just $25, and Sturms-Sarpong has waived the $600 move-in fee, so with an approved application, a new resident can move in with just the first month’s rent. Studio apartments are $795 a month and one-bedrooms rent for $995 per month.
Rent includes all utilities, even internet. The property is pet-friendly, with some restrictions. Pets must be 50 pounds or under. A $100 non-refundable pet deposit is required, and pet rent is $25 a month.
“We also work with a lot of charities,” said Sturms-Sarpong. “They come in once a month and have family fun night, where we have dinner and crafts. We work with OACAC. We work with Elevate Branson. We work
with a lot of organizations. They come here and provide resources and services for our residents. CAM comes once a month, and also the WIC van.”
Residents of The Penleigh are pleased with the new management and the changes they’ve seen. Mike Rowland has lived at the property for a few months now, and shared, “I love it. They respond so quickly to everything. It’s going to take some time, but they’re really cleaning the place. They’re pro-active. I’m very happy here. It’s a nice place. It’s going to take some time, but they are working hard, and I’m happy to have them.”
Saturday’s open house gave prospective residents an opportunity to tour the property, meet Sturms-Sarpong and the staff, and see the improvements already made. Said Sturms-Sarpong, “We want everyone to know we’re under new management and to see the changes we’ve made. We want to prove some of the rumors wrong. We want everyone to know that now The Penleigh won’t reflect what some of the reviews have been saying.”
Ronzo the Clown made balloon animals for the children in a special open house at The Penleigh. (Photo by K.D. Michaels)
See where they stand: Candidates answer questions prior to November election
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
With the 2024 General Election just weeks away, residents of Taney and Stone counties will have some decisions to make. While many of the local races were decided in the August Primary elections, area voters will have to decide on a State Representative in their respective district, as well as a United States Representative for Missouri’s District 7. In an effort to keep our voters informed, the Branson Globe posed questions to area candidates. The same nine questions were presented to each candidate. Their responses are listed below.
U.S. Representative, District 7
• Eric Burlison (R), United States Congress for Missouri District 7, Incumbent Missi Hesketh (D), United States Congress for Missouri District 7, Candidate
• Kevin Craig (L), United States Congress for Missouri District 7; candidate did not respond
1. Give me a brief bio
Burlison: I am a former Investment Advisor and Software Consultant. Growing up in Southwest Missouri, I graduated from SMSU with a Master’s in Business Administration. I currently serve as a Republican Congressman, and previously served in the Missouri House and Senate. In my private life, I enjoy hunting and fishing in the Ozarks. My wife, Angie, and I are active members of our church. We live in Ozark with our two daughters, Reese and Aubrey.
Hesketh: My family moved to Forsyth in 1983 from the Chicago suburbs. After graduating from Forsyth and quickly flunking out of Mizzou, I worked in food service, business and finance before a post-9/11 forced transition brought me to education. I have been an educator for 20 years, currently teaching Gifted at Ozark. My highest level of education is Education Specialist in Special Education and Assessment. I have served my community on city council for two-and-ahalf terms and am completing my first term as mayor. I am also the very proud mother of three - two in college and one a Junior at Forsyth High School.
2. What would you consider your core values?
Burlison: First and foremost, I am a born-again Christian. Being a follower of Christ Jesus is at the very core of my values and beliefs. I have a record of being a proven conservative; it’s literally on my signs. I am proud to say that I have done what I campaigned to do. My voting record has been scored as 98% by Heritage Action, the American Conservative Union at 100%, Club for Growth at 100%, Americans for Prosperity at 100% and Eagle Forum at 100%. I often have Democrats tell me that, while they don’t agree with my positions, they know I am voting on principles and not in my own political self-interest. This is who I am and why I run. We don’t need any more self-interested politicians. We need patriots who want to save America.
Burlison: I love this community and the people that live in it. I believe in the core values of hard work, loving God, loving our neighbor and raising your children to do the same. These fundamental values are being threatened by a far-left, socialist agenda that wants to remove God from our communities and schools. It wants to indoctrinate our children into a godless, hedonistic culture. And, it wants to fundamentally change the culture and fabric of this great nation. It is for these reasons that I have given up a great career in the private sector to serve in Washington, DC. I have been there for almost two years now.
Hesketh: Running for U.S. Congress was not on my 2024 Bingo card. There were four events that changed that. 1) When I saw our current Congressman supporting a known insurrectionist to become Speaker of the House. 2) When I saw our current Congressman celebrating a 39% reduction to the EPA when he full-well knows how vital clean water, soil and air are to the health of his constituents and to the success of our agriculture and ecotourism economies. 3) When I realized our current Congressman would never vote in support of HR 82, which eliminates the 60% reduction in Social Security benefits for public servants retiring with a pension (WEP/GPO). And, finally, 4) When I reached out to those connected politically and found there was no one running against the current Congressman. That is when I decided to run.
4. What are the three most pressing issues you feel our region/state is facing?
Burlison: Illegal immigration, inflation and burdensome regulations by numerous federal agencies
Hesketh: Missouri has a lot of pressing issues: lack of affordable housing, hospitals closing, affordable healthcare, access to mental health care, high poverty levels, childcare, high prices of consumables (as are being experienced nationally), algal blooms in our rivers, being at or near the bottom in teacher pay, quality of life and more. Many of those issues can and should be addressed at the state level. It is extremely concerning that our current Congressman has not secured, let alone even sought, any earmarks to bring federal dollars back to Southwest Missouri to try and address any of the issues that would help our communities invest and innovate in order to increase opportunities for families to become more self-sufficient and to encourage and enable our young people to remain in the area. Equally as important to address is the effects on relationships of family, friends and neighbors, stemming from the political rhetoric, the lies being spewed, by our
Hesketh: Service is central to who I am as a person, whether working with students in the classroom, or when I facilitated the backpack program at Forsyth Schools for ten years, sending food home with students who live in food insecure homes, or when identifying priorities to work toward at the city level, I work toward building others up. And, as everything is interconnected, along with the service is relationships. I have maintained lifelong friendships and built new relationships out of mutual respect, stemming from honesty and integrity. The people who know me know that they can trust me, that I do not lie to them, and that I work hard. 3. What made you decide to seek this office?
current Congressman. We need leadership in it to bring results, not to be self-serving and working to divide us. 5. How would you, in this position, address these issues?
Burlison: Illegal Immigration is a threat to every Missouri citizen. I have supported and co-sponsored HR2, which was a comprehensive solution to fix the problems of illegal immigration. In addition, I along with Senator Josh Hawley, sponsored the legislation that would empower the states to enforce the immigration laws when the federal government fails to do its job. Inflation is a result of two things - overspending by the federal governments and burdensome regulations. Our national debt is approaching 36 trillion dollars. We are at a debt-to-GDP ratio that is the worst in our nation’s history. It is unsustainable. But many politicians talk about cutting spending, but few are willing to attach their names to cuts. In taking office, my team and I identified 270line items in the budget that were wasteful examples of spending and sent 270 individual letters and requests to reduce or eliminate those expenditures, saving the taxpayers more than 400 billion a year in annual expenses. And, the final pressing issue facing our region and state is overly burdensome regulations. Since taking office almost two years ago, constituents have brought to my attention many crippling new rules and regulations from the Biden Administration. These caused me to file many of the bills I have filed. One example is the regulations by the Army Corps of Engineers. I have had numerous meetings with community leaders, residents and the Corps to understand the issues and points of friction at Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo. I worked to get on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and specifically the subcommittee for Water Resources. I did this so that I could have a greater impact on the decisions that affect the citizens that live at the lakes. I was able to pass legislation out of the committee and the House floor that will empower property owners with the choice of leasing land on encroachments.
Hesketh: I have already taken the first step in addressing these issues by talking with people all over Missouri›s 7th Congressional District this past year. By hearing their concerns and collaborating with state leaders, I would know what dollars are needed for which projects that would have the greatest impact on the region. I enjoy networking and making connections. I would not be in D.C. touting my partisan awards because I understand that you have to work with others, compromise, in order to make progress.
6. What are the best things that you can bring to the office you are seeking?
Burlison: I bring with me the common-sense principles and knowledge I have gained by growing up and working my entire life in the Ozarks. I know what it’s like to own a business. I know what it’s like to serve in the Missouri legislature. I know what it’s like to work in a cubicle for 20 years to collect an honest wage, only to watch my hard-earned tax dollars wast-
ed by politicians.
Hesketh: My intention of seeking this office in order for me to represent the people of Southwest Missouri is to bring a fresh start to our District. For far too long the people of the 7th have gone unrepresented because the individuals elected have been in it for their own gains and not to roll up their sleeves and really accomplish anything. I have been called tenacious because when I recognize something really worth fighting for, I stay focused on it until the job gets done. And, I would do things with integrity, being honest with my constituents, and being accessible to them.
7. What makes you the best candidate for this office?
Burlison: Again, I am a proven principled conservative. I have over twenty years of private sector experience. I know what it›s like to be a taxpayer and watch my taxes wasted by government bureaucrats. My voting record and actions have been consistent with the way I campaigned. I have a principled voting record and a proven past of getting big things done.
Hesketh: Having spent 20 years in the classroom, I have been able to gain perspectives of a wide variety of family structures of various means and opportunities, and many barriers to success. Working within city government has given me budgeting and ordinance/ statute experience, insight to challenges of limited municipal budgets, and the needs of our first responders. Raising three kids as a single mom
on a teacher salary, budgeting for household improvements and juggling graduate school (twice), I know that in order to accomplish goals, sometimes we sacrifice in the short-term in order to succeed in the long-term. I am the best candidate for this office because I am goal-oriented myself and care about helping others achieve their goals.
8. What else would you like us to know?
Burlison: While I have to travel to Washington D.C. to work, I spend as little time as I can there. I won›t allow the swamp to suck me into the D.C. culture. One way of doing that is living not in D.C. but here in Ozark with my wife and daughters. I fly to D.C. mostly on Mondays and fly home as soon as I can, usually on Thursdays. This keeps me connected to the district. It keeps me grounded and close to the people I love.
Hesketh: Municipal elections are non-partisan, which is how I was able to be elected Mayor of Forsyth. The work that we do at the city level is done to benefit the entire community. That is the approach that I would take in the role of Congresswoman representing Southwest Missouri. Also, this campaign has been financed by grassroots donations - not corporate donors expecting favors in return. Too, too many folks become really, really wealthy when assuming higher office, with little to no accountability. I would be happy to release tax returns and/or a list of assets, because I will not be bought and I am not in it to get rich (much like being
a teacher or mayor). Citizens United needs to be overturned to get dirty money out of politics. And, while we are at it, we also need to implement term limits in Congress. I am solely in this to get Southwest Missouri back on track.
9. How about a few lines, asking for our readers’ votes in the upcoming election?
Burlison: I am so proud to serve Southwest Missouri. I am particularly proud to tell anyone I meet from around the world that I represent the greatest people you will ever meet, who live in the most beautiful place you will ever see. It is an honor to be chosen by you to represent our families in Washington, D.C.
Hesketh: I realized that many of us are so busy living our daily lives: chauffeuring kids to events, working (sometimes more than one job), worrying about finances, maybe taking care of aging parents that it is difficult to pay attention to how each of our elected representatives is performing for us. I urge Republican voters to check the incumbent›s track record of votes and social media postings so that you, too, can realize that he is not demonstrative of the values we share - honesty and integrity and hard work. I urge you to vote out the extremism so that we can get back to achieving goals for the betterment of all of us and move away from trying to impart or force values on others. That is not the job of a member of Congress. As Congresswoman, I will do the work.
Missouri State Represen-
tative, District 155
Matthew Overcast, (R) Missouri State Representative, District 155, Candidate
• Courtney Sweeney-Legore (D) Missouri State Representative, District 155 Candidate, did not respond to questions.
1. Give me a brief background on yourself, please.
Overcast: My name is Matthew Overcast, your Republican candidate for District 155. I was born and raised right here in District 155. I grew up in Douglas County, Missouri, on our family farm, where my only wife of 12 years, a firstgrade elementary teacher at Gainesville Elementary and I currently raise our five children. I am a USAF Veteran, joining at 17 years old, to serve as a Tactical Aircraft Journeyman (aircraft mechanic). I am a licensed business and education attorney in Ava, Missouri, and a small business owner. With my local roots, proven leadership, business and legal experience, I am uniquely qualified to hit the ground running to lead my colleagues in the house to achieve the people’s agenda and defend our conservative Ozark values in Jefferson City.
2. What are three things that your campaign is based upon?
Overcast: Active Leadership, Integrity, Upholding Conservative Family Values
3. What do you feel are the top challenges that face our area, and how do you plan to help with those challenges?
Overcast: In speaking with constituents door to door, the foremost challenges facing our district have emerged as critical focal points for the community. These include (1) enhancing our economic
development and fostering job creation, (2) broadening rural healthcare accessibility, (3) enhancing educational standards and opportunities in our schools, and, (4) ensuring prudent management of taxpayer funds. To address economic development and job creation, I would work in collaboration with our local chambers of commerce and economic development agencies to attract new businesses, support existing ones and invest in infrastructure projects that create employment opportunities. Moreover, drawing upon my background as a business owner and business attorney, I will meticulously evaluate existing and proposed legislation in the House to guarantee that only bills supporting intelligent business practices, which encourage expansion and opportunities for Missouri businesses without unduly stifling economic growth are enacted.
In response to the healthcare provider shortage in our rural communities, I will push for the expansion of practice rights for assistant physicians, similar to the bill passed for Advanced Nurse Practitioners by the Missouri House last legislative session. Additionally, I will champion the provision of recruitment incentives to attract all medical professionals willing to work in rural Missouri. Collaborating closely with healthcare providers and local organizations is essential to tackling the scarcity of healthcare personnel in rural regions. These steps will go a long way in mitigating the challenges faced by senior citizens and low-income families who must travel long distances for essential medical services.
To improve our education system, it is essential to empower parents with a range of educational options, equip teachers with the nec-
essary resources to exceed educational standards, address burnout, enhance retention rates, and guarantee that every student receives a high-quality education that prepares them for success beyond graduation. It is imperative that we unite vital educational stakeholders, including parents, students, teachers, advocacy groups and other professionals, to collaboratively develop and enact these impactful educational reforms. As an education law attorney, I will be at the forefront of getting this done for the people of Missouri and my district.
To ensure prudent management of taxpayer funds, I will continue advocating for policies that promote transparency and fiscal responsibility in government spending. This includes making budget information easily accessible to the public and holding regular town hall meetings or sending out letters to discuss how taxpayer dollars are being allocated. I will fiercely advocate for funding for local projects that have a direct impact on constituents’ quality of life, such as infrastructure improvements, education initiatives, healthcare services and economic development programs. Ensuring that tax dollars are invested back into the community will provide tangible benefits to residents that they can see.
4. What makes you the best qualified candidate for the position?
Overcast: What sets me apart as the most qualified candidate for this position is my dedication to public service, legal expertise and commitment to upholding conservative family values. Drawing upon my experience as a Veteran, I understand the value of building relationships and leading people from diverse backgrounds toward common goals. As a business attorney and small
business owner, I empathize with the challenges faced by local businesses and know how to address them effectively. With strong community ties, I promise to prioritize the needs of our community above all else, just as I did during my military service. My resilience, coupled with my unwavering dedication to my values, distinguishes me from the career politicians and the well intentioned and ensures my relentless efforts to improve our district for all families. These attributes, along with my Ozarks upbringing and faith, uniquely equip me to immediately begin working toward enhancing our district and creating an even more thriving environment for our families to reside and raise our children.
5. Can you please give me a brief statement asking readers to vote for you?
Overcast: Having defended our constitutional rights and freedoms abroad while in the military, I now seek the honor of your vote on November 5 to continue serving our community by safeguarding our Ozark values right here in Missouri. A vote for Matthew Overcast on or before November 5 is a vote for YOU, your family and a better District 155.
Missouri State Representative, District 156
• Janis Beacham (D), Missouri State Representative, District 156, Candidate
Brian Seitz (R), Missouri State Representative, District 156, Incumbent
1. Give me a brief bio on yourself, please.
Beacham: I am a retired educator with experience in all levels of education, as well as in business/industry training. I began my professional career teaching junior and senior high math in Creighton, MO. I developed two nation-
al exemplary programs serving disadvantaged and handicapped students in career and technical education. I finished my Ph. D. focusing on adult education; research and statistics; career and technical education and public administration. My business, Beacham Associates, Performance Improvement Systems, gave me the opportunity to work with Fortune 500 companies all over the United State and Canada. I have served as president of Missouri Vocational Special Needs Association and received the Skills USA National Education Team 10 Year Service Award. I was born in Saint Louis and grew up in Jefferson City. When I retired, we chose Hollister for our home. We’ve lived here for eight years and enjoy the lakes, the access to nature and the busy vacation destination area of Branson. I was married to my first husband for 32 years and have been with my current husband for eight years. I have a large, blended family.
Seitz: I have represented the 156th District in the Missouri House of Representatives since November 2020. Originally from Michigan, I served in the United States Army as an 82nd Airborne Paratrooper. After the Army, I obtained my Bachelor›s degree from Missouri State University and started a local business, Branson Music Country News. Through this media, I was heavily involved in promoting our live shows and attractions for over a decade. Additionally, I served as the pastor of Sovereign Grace Baptist Church. My wife, Valerie, and I have three grown children and five grandchildren.
2. What would you consider your core values?
Beacham: I believe in putting my faith in action. Having twelve years of Catholic school gave me a great foundation. Experience as a
Habitat for Humanity family partner, as well as being a member of two church boards gave me the opportunity to be of service to my community. I believe in doing the right thing, even when no one is watching, and to be honest with people. My core values include fairness, family and community. The best way to find the right answers to today›s challenges is to work together to meet those challenges.
Seitz: My core values flow from a biblical worldview. As a firm believer in the sovereignty of God, I realize that He designed this nation, the greatest ever on Earth, to share His truth. My Christian worldview informs my decision-making as a legislator, and helps me to protect the values that have made the 156th District one of the best areas in Missouri to raise a family.
3. What made you decide to seek this office?
Beacham: Missouri is my home and I›ve seen a decline in support and funding for public education over the last 20 years. Twenty years ago, people came to Missouri to learn about innovative ideas in public education. Now we are rated mediocre, at best. Missouri can do better, and must do better, to provide the funding necessary for our educators to provide the education our children deserve. I also ran for office because I believe in women’s reproductive healthcare.
Seitz: Five years ago, I saw the State moving to the Left, contrary to values of the 156th District. Yes, we maintained Republican supermajorities, but many in those majorities operated at the behest of political insiders rather than their constituents. I ran to make sure the people of the 156th District and the rest of the state had a voice that would fight for and protect their values in
the Capitol. I embody the ideals, morals and principles of Branson, Hollister and the surrounding area. Over the past four years, I have been an effective voice for the District, and I would be honored to earn reelection for a third term in office.
4. What are the three most pressing issues you feel our region/state is facing?
Beacham: We need to get government out of reproductive healthcare. My opponent, Brian Seitz, introduced one of the most restrictive abortion bills in the nation. His bill, HB 2810, would have banned all abortions, even those involving ectopic pregnancies, which are life threatening. Our public education system needs to be fully funded. My opponent supported Senate Bill 727, which expands unaccountable charter schools and vouchers in cities with a population of 30,000 or more. This has absolutely no benefit to our rural school districts and, in most instances, only benefits the wealthy few. We need to attract new industries to our area proving good paying, year-round jobs.
Seitz: Our most pressing local issues are housing, supporting and encouraging economic growth, and continuing to protect our children from Leftist indoctrination while seeing to the needs of our growing senior population. In this election, more than almost any we have had, I would also say that protecting the right to life is of paramount importance and electing legislators - and a President - who will work to lower taxes is vital to offset economic failures of the Biden Administration.
5. How would you, in this position, address these issues?
Beacham: As State Representative, I will be a strong advocate for health care, mental health care and reproductive health care. I will also fight against unaccountable charter schools and vouchers, fight for fully funding our public education system, and addressing mental health issues. By addressing the first two issues - healthcare and public education funding, as well as providing affordable housing, public transportation and increased mental health services, we will have a much better chance of attracting new businesses to our area.
Seitz: I have a track record of getting things done is the Legislature. I have worked to strengthen parental rights in education and have maintained regular communication with our excellent local public schools to ensure that our kids are safe from the indoctrination plaguing many across our state and nation. I have worked to lower taxes for seniors and will continue to fight for lower taxes for all, because it is YOUR money, not the government’s money. I have regularly supported local housing development efforts, writing letters of support to state agencies, and helping developers and city governments access grant money for housing projects. As Chair of the Tourism Committee, I have promoted our area and worked to secure millions in much-needed funding for transportation needs. I am the strongest and loudest voice supporting the rights of the unborn, and that will never change. So, to answer the question, I will keep fighting and winning for the District in the upcoming two years, just as I have throughout the last four years.
6. What are the best things that you can bring to the office you are seeking?
Beacham: I bring a new perspective. I am not a politician. I have worked hard to earn a Ph. D, focusing on adult education, career and technical education, research and statistics, and public administration. With my experience in all levels of education, as well as with Fortune 500 companies, I bring knowledge and a skill base that will be valuable as we work to make Missouri, especially HD 156, grow and prosper.
Seitz: The best thing I bring to the office is tenacity and unmatched focus and stamina. I fight day and night for the needs of the District, no matter the opposition. I stand up to the Left and am unwavering in my defense of our conservative values. Our District has never had a voice as loud, or effective, as mine, and that has paid dividends over the past four years, and will continue to over the next two, should I be reelected.
7. What makes you the best candidate for this office?
Beacham: I will be a fierce advocate for health care, mental health care and reproductive health care. I will fight to fully fund public education, pay our teachers what they are worth,
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,
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.
and bring Missouri back to having an exemplary educational system. I promise to use my experience in general education, career and technical education, apprenticeship training and Fortune 500 company training all over the United States and Canada to help attract new businesses and industry to our area. I am passionate and hardworking. As a lifelong learner and a good listener, I will be seeking your ideas on how to make Missouri, especially HD 156, a better place to live and raise our families.
Seitz: I›m the best candidate for State Representative because I can›t be bought, and I have found ways to be effective without sacrificing my principles. My mindset is 100% focused on the success of the 156th District. I fight to protect the values that made our area great, and work to make sure you, the people, are heard loud and clear in the Capitol.
8. What else would you like our readers to know?
Beacham: I have no political ambitions beyond being the Missouri State Representative for HD 156. I will be working for them and not to advance my political career.
Seitz: I›d like readers to know that I am here to
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
serve. My door is always open, even if we disagree, and I work unceasingly to make sure the needs of my constituents are addressed. I’ve successfully passed several large pieces of legislation, built strong relationships with other legislators and state leaders, and am ready to hit the ground running again this year.
9. How about a few lines, asking for our readers’ votes in the upcoming election?
Beacham: Vote for me to bring common sense back to Jefferson City. I am ready to roll up my sleeves and go to work for you.
Seitz: I encourage all registered voters to head to the polls on November 5, or before, for no excuse voting. This is the most important election since Reagan became President, and will shape our state and our nation for generations to come. For a strong, conservative voice that will always fight for you, vote to re-elect Seitz for State Representative on November 5. No matter which candidates you choose to back, please vote on November 5, and let your voice be heard. Your vote determines the future of our region, state and country!
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.
It has no pomp or heroic statuettes. It needs no laurel, no fancy rosettes. Its mute beauty belies the vicious fight, That marked our internal fall into night.
Some giant hand might have incised the ground Lifting the earth to provide a surround, To place the black slabs of polished granite. Cut and shipped from halfway round the planet.
BY DON HOLLAND
The names of the fallen are deeply etched, Row on row, column on column matched. Rising in roiled, suffocating crescendo, Falling, at last, in consoling tempo.
The silent roll call intones day and night. Endless pain for those called to bear the fight, Who survived to hear the shouts of disdain. Wonder, had their sacrifice been in vain?
For those who protested, dodged and deferred. They must examine their most earnest word. By which they were led to the decision, To hold their peers in scornful derision.
We were the bad guys who went off to war. Who did our duty by the thousand score, Returning to a tepid or hostile shore With empty promises of, ‘nevermore.”
This is our monument; we feel its draw, As old hurts surface that fester and gnaw. Under whose calm shadow may now reclaim, That honor from those who sought to defame.
The Vietnam Wall A POEM
pinion
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EDITORIAL
POLICY:
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BY GARY J. GROMAN a.k.a. The Ole Seagull
If the Ole Seagull had a $1 every time he has heard someone say, “I’m not going to vote for Trump” or “I’m not going to vote for Harris” “because I don’t like them,” he’d be a rich man. Some will follow that comment up with the reason for that conclusion, and some will not. Some “trust” one over one reason or another and others vote for a party, Republican or Democrat.
An Ole Seagull lives his life by the KISS method, “Keep It Simple Sir.” What that tells him about both of
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer
With the election just days away, tensions run high with concerns about election integrity, frustration with people who don’t intend to vote at all, and more. I personally will be glad to see the end of political emails and text messages I never signed up for and donation requests thinly veiled as a “survey.” (I depend on my email for work, and deleting literally hundreds each day to find what
BY JOSHUA HESTON StateoftheOzarks Media & Design
The little boy walks the sidewalk, eyes bright in his Buzz Lightyear costume, eyes bright for the free candy. Halloween has come to downtown, safe daylight event replacing the freewheeling buccaneer spirit of going houseto-house as tradition demands. He is followed by a little Super Mario and yet another “bleeding” ghost face. Only 20 minutes into Hollister’s Trunk or Treat and it is time for a candy bucket refill. The crowd is huge. Halloween is upon us; time of expensive candy and hyper children in costume, of spook houses and taffy apples, of big animatronic werewolves and face paint and a plethora of field pumpkins slowly rotted in their face-carved glory by the near- summer heat.
the candidates for President in 2024 is that they are both lying to his face and that the only hope he has is to vote on the issues that he believes will impact our country the most and pray that the candidate espousing how they will handle those issues will do what they say.
“But Seagull there are so many issues, how do you boil it down?” “Using the KISS method, he sorts the issues into those he knows something about and those he knows little about or nothing about. Then he concentrates on those, or what, most important to him. In this case it boils down to National Security and Illegal Immigration. He will vote for the candidate that he believes is most likely to stop illegal and other undocumented aliens entering our coun-
try, virtually uncontrolled and monitored AND not to repeat the humiliation of our withdrawal from Afghanistan.”
“How about other issues such as abortion, transgenders, inflation, etc.” “Those issues will be moot if our country’s not secure.” “Are you saying that you don’t believe our country is secure?” “Absolutely! On the morning of September 11, 2001, thousands went to work in the two towers of the World Trade Center, believing that American was secure. That day, they, and we as a Nation, discovered that we weren’t as secure as we thought. Nineteen attackers hit, killing thousands and directly impacting our Nation as no military power has ever done.”
That attack took years of planning to get people
in place and in a position to attack. Look at the timing and planning the Israelis put into the pager and cell phone attack against Hamas. Can any reasonable person believe that similar attackers, terrorists, are not infiltrating across our borders planning and positioning for future attacks? That’s a rhetorical question.
In an Ole Seagull’s mind, the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 has had far-reaching consequences beyond that country’s borders. It has encouraged several world powers, including Russia, North Korea and terrorist groups such as “Hamas” to pursue more aggressive policies and ambitions. For what it matters, among other things but for the humiliating manner in which we evacuated Afghanistan, the Ole Seagull be-
Reflections: Learning from Daniel
I need is beyond annoying.)
Regardless of the election results, many people will likely find them disappointing, perhaps facing the prospect of working for or with people with whom they fundamentally disagree. The Bible can offer guidance and wisdom, and one good role model is Daniel, selected along with other bright, promising Jewish young men to enter Nebuchadnezzar’s service when the Babylonian captivity began. Obviously, there wasn’t much they could do to avoid capture by an invading army. It’s possible they were subjected to castration or other physical markings. They wore Babylonian clothing and were given Babylonian names. When it came to God’s command to worship no other gods,
though, Daniel and his friends drew the line.
In Daniel chapter 1, we read the young Israelites were given Babylonian food. From Daniel’s concern, we can assume the meat was offered to idols or otherwise defiled according to God’s law. Daniel went to the chief official, with whom he had “favor.” How did he get that favor? God was clearly involved, but we can also see Daniel was respectful and cooperative even in a tough situation. Aware of the official’s hesitation, Daniel proposed a test, trusting God for the outcome.
In chapter 3, three other young men were faced with the command to bow to a statue. (Scholars speculate Daniel was away on official duties that day.) While
clearly expressing their intention not to comply, they still respectfully referred to “Oh, King,” regarding Nebuchadnezzar’s power and position. Again, they trusted God, regardless of the outcome.
Later, under King Darius, Daniel had carried out official duties faithfully for many years, likely using his Babylonian name at least while at work. He served so well that jealous co-workers created a set-up, and again, God came through in the lion’s den.
What about those for whom God didn’t seem to come through? The New Testament writer of Hebrews lists many in the “hall of faith,” reminding us of their example when we, too, face trials. Like them, we can count on our
lieves that Russia would not have invaded Ukraine, there would have been no October 17 “Hamas Terrorist Attack, and North Korean Troops wouldn’t be in Ukraine helping the Russian invasion.
Although the Ole Seagull’s issues relate to security, such as stopping illegal and other undocumented aliens from entering our country and not repeating the humiliation of our withdrawal from Afghanistan, yours might be different. The important thing is to decide what issues matter most to you and to vote for the candidate most likely to address those issues effectively. We get the kind of government we deserve, which depends on voting. Please vote on November 5, 2024, because it will determine the type of government that may very well decide the future of the American dream!
reward, whether now or in eternity. Peter and other apostles drew the line when told to keep quiet about Jesus. Paul used his Roman citizenship to advantage while still speaking respectfully to officials, yet when it came down to obeying God’s command to preach the Gospel, he didn’t cave in. Courageous Christians around the world have continued to follow those biblical examples. Whether directly impacted by this election outcome or not, we will all face opportunities to interact respectfully, as Daniel did, in our jobs and communities while drawing our “line in the sand” when it comes to morality, sanctity of life, and other issues where Scripture gives us God’s clear commands.
Been Thinkin’ About...All hallows passing
Halloween is a contentious holiday, especially in the Bible Belt, especially after fears of Satanism that arose in the 1980s. Threats of witchcraft and paganism drive the church to embrace the now-popular “harvest festival” and the only ghost allowed is the Holy one. My love of Halloween often gets me funny looks and occasionally oblique criticism.
Few know my own wrestling with the holiday, how I loved it as a child, how I feared it as a teenager after one of my cousins was gunned down on a country road for having learned too much of a cornfield cult that was making strange fires and sacrifices within a gravel road grove. Nonetheless, the potency of the night remained and, in time, I walked away from the old fears, embracing both my childhood and my ancestral traditions.
Halloween is a portmanteau of “[All] Hallows Eve,” which explains the oddly placed apostrophe in the old spelling: Hallowe’en. High church in the British Isles created the night, an evening to “hallow all” before night slipped into the dawn of
All Saints Day. But the holiday was crafted over the far-older Samhain (generally pronounced “Sah-wen” or “Sow-ween” in places like Ireland and Wales).
And Halloween is, first and foremost, a sacred Celtic event, a night revered as a celebration of death. The purported “ghoulies and ghosties and long-legged beasties”are said to gad about the neighborhood because it is this night the veil betwixt this world and the next has thinned. High above, the Pleiades, the Seven Sisters star constellation, rises at midnight, reminder of a night like this, long ago, when the world itself was plunged into darkness and loss.
Death does that. Stops time. Creates a permanent “before” and everlasting “after.” The world is never the same again, not after death. Not after loss. The world of modernity reacts to grief with strange and plastic artificiality. Concerning paradox indeed, as the modern church has stripped away Halloween and with it the celebratory passion play of death.
Faced with incompre-
hensible loss? Just pray about it. Gaping hole left in your heart? Just thank God they’re in heaven; they’re probably better off anyway. Cataclysmic and cosmic loss are reduced to a trite card on a shelf and perhaps a well-meaning casserole before the business of self-importance returns.
In a world where death is sidelined, life becomes overlooked, expected to last in some strange and tedious forever. Neglect breeds indifference, callousness, a strange lack of magic. No wonder J. K. Rowling’s work was so popular, siren call to walk away from a muggle’s life, eyes opened to a world of enchantment, possibility and yes, even danger. The beings that walk the edges of the underworld remind us life is precious, remind us to tread the world with weird care. The fairies of old demand no less.
And so, this Halloween, I will celebrate quietly, reverently, cooking the foods of my past, remembering my childhood with love. There will be no horror movies (though I sometimes like those) and no jump scares. But I will
think back to a jack o’lantern lighted and grinning from an old elm stump in the back yard, of homemade semisweet chocolate fudge and chili and rice crispy candy and of bonfires near the hedge trees. And there I will light candles honoring my ancestors, good Celts nearly all. I will honor their lives, remembering the mothers, the fathers, the poets, the shaman druid priests, the warriors of old, here, now, as the veil thins, at my own crossroads of the soul. Those countless lives lived made my own possible and for that I am grateful. This is the road less traveled, melancholic and hopeful, the end of one year, the beginning of the next, another night, another day, never to be forgotten.
Laughter on Downing Street snaps me back from my reverie. The crowd has thinned, raucous family fun winding down. I realize I am out of candy and my Cernunnos antlers are slipping from my head in the sweaty evening heat. Another All Hallows is passing on, forever, into eternity.
BY HEATHER HAYGOOD Columnist
“Make your lives a masterpiece, you only get one canvas.” -E.A. Bucchianeri
Ilove this quote. Make your lives a masterpiece…what a spectacular thought. William Hazlet said, “The art of life is to know how to enjoy a lit-
BY EVANGELIST TIM KIDWELL, Branson Church of Christ
M
issouri was the first state to ban abortion after Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022, with the exception of medical emergencies. The abortion-rights activists responded by launching a campaign to put abortion access on the ballot. To this end they have succeeded.
Tuesday, November 5, 2024, your Missouri ballot will include the choice to vote “Yes” or “No” for Missouri Amendment 3, also known
Curating gratitude
tle and to endure much.” This reminds me of another quote, written by Paul after enduring prison time for preaching the gospel. He said, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
None of us want to suffer, but hardship and humanity have long been companions. I know what it is to be low and to choose joy over sad-
ness. I know what it means to choose strength in fearful situations. These moments are never easy, but I remind myself that I am never alone. God is with me and is my never-yielding source of joy and courage.
Viktor Frankl and Wayne Waddell are among many stories of people who have lost everything and instead of giving up, they took control of the one thing they had left.
These people took authority over their minds and hearts; then in extreme hardship found the peace of God. The man who can curate his
own gratitude, joy and peace is a powerful man. Gratitude is not a feeling, but a choice we must make. There is always something to be thankful for.
The yellow car theory suggests that what we think about, we see more of. I believe this is true. Your brain is searching for proof of what you choose to hold as your belief system. Confirmation bias is the tendency to interpret new evidence as confirmation of one’s existing beliefs or theories. Your brain will highlight everything that confirms what you choose to believe. Proverbs
The sins of Missouri Amendment 3
as the Right to Reproductive Freedom Initiative. A “Yes” vote means you want to legalize abortion in Missouri for the entire 40week term of a pregnancy, even up to the moment of birth. It is both a crime and a sin to take the innocent life of another human being (Ja. 2:11; Rev. 21:8; 1 Jo. 3:15). God hates hands that shed innocent blood (Prov. 6:17). Beginning at conception, God recognizes the undeveloped, unborn, substance in the womb as a person. A “Yes” vote for amendment 3 is a vote to murder an innocent person and is therefore a crime and a sin.
A “Yes” vote means you want to add the phrase “pregnant person” (instead of “woman”) to the Missouri Constitution. The Bible teaches that God created
two genders, male and female. Every person is born as one or the other (Genesis 1:27). Jesus affirmed this when he taught that “at the beginning” God made a man and a woman (Matt. 19:4). God talks about the role of male leadership in the home and the church (1 Tim. 3:1-12; Eph. 5:22-33). God also speaks about the role of the woman in the home and the church (Titus 2:4-5; 1 Tim. 2:11-12). The female is identified as the only person who can conceive children (Gen. 3:16; 1 Tim. 2:15). There is no scripture in the Bible that even implies that a person’s sex is optional. A clear distinction between the male and female is maintained. Biological gender can be externally disguised but it cannot be transformed. A
Out of the mouth of Little Doug...
COMPILED BY TIFFANY
GRAVETT
Recent update from Little Doug’s mother, Cami:
“Today [October 12] is a very significant day for me. Today Little Doug has had his second LVAD [Left ventricular assist device: a surgically implanted pump that helps the heart pump oxygenated blood to the body]—the one that Texas Children’s Hospital put in for him—for ONE DAY LONGER than he had his first LVAD!
I remember very vividly when, just after Wisconsin Children’s Hospital put him on end-of-life care, a doctor put her hand on my shoulder and told me to try to focus on being thankful for the extra time and memories we had gotten with Little Doug because of the LVAD they had given him. It was very kind and well-meaning, but at the time, it just felt like another push to give up.
So today…today I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the extra time and memories we have gotten with Little Doug thanks to Dr. Adachi! And to Texas
Children’s Hospital! And to all the amazing people that prayed so hard! And most of all…to God.”
Today’s kid quotes are from a book published by Little Doug’s mother, Cami Behl, as a way of documenting his “resilient, fun-loving, exuberant” perspective on life. “The Wisdom of Little Doug” can be purchased on Amazon, and all proceeds go into Little Doug’s savings fund!
***
I went to wake Little Doug up one morning and I said to him: “We got a
lot of snow last night.” He jumped out of bed and ran to the window and looked out, then said to me: “Mom, we need to put gas in the lawn mower, and I’m gonna need a rake!” –age 2
***
I was trying to study so I could take a quiz on NLP (Neuro-linguistic programming).... Meanwhile, Little Doug kept coming in and interrupting me. “Mom, I need Cheetos!” “Mom, my water is not cold anymore, I need it cold!” “Mom, I need a new video on.” “Mom, I
23:7 says, “As a man thinketh so is he.” We are shaping the world around us with our thoughts and our words. Your life is your canvas, and you are the artist. You may not always be able to control the circumstances, but you can certainly control your response. We don’t learn to enjoy little with the intention of only ever having little. We curate gratitude so that we experience joy regardless of our social, financial, or health status. I have found that there is always something to be thankful for.
At the end of my life, I
“Yes” vote for amendment 3 is an attempt to blur and redefine God-given biological gender.
Other realities connected with Missouri amendment 3: A “Yes” vote for amendment 3 means you want to remove parental notification and consent requirements, allowing minors to undergo an abortion without informing their parents or guardian. The Bible teaches that children are to “honor and obey” their father and mother (Eph. 6:2). This amendment contradicts God’s instructions concerning the parent-child relationship. A “Yes” vote for amendment 3 will replace parental authority with government authority.
According to Forbes, while abortion was legal, taxpayers subsidized roughly 24% of all abortion costs
stepped on Lightning McQueen and hurt my foot.,” etc. By the FIFTEENTH time he interrupted me, I turned to him with “angry mom eyes” and said:
in the U.S. This is equivalent to taxpayers paying the full cost of 250,000 abortions a year. A “Yes” vote for amendment 3 means you want to allow taxpayer funded abortions in Missouri.
Also according to Forbes, medical negligence is a leading cause of death in the United States. Millions are injured as a result of substandard medical care. A “Yes” vote for amendment 3 means you want to prevent women from suing if they or their baby are harmed during pregnancy.
Those who selfishly cry out, “My body, my life” will surely vote “Yes” for Missouri amendment 3. But the true meaning of the aforementioned slogan is sorely missed. God says, “My body!” I gave it to you. “My life!” I gave it to you!
“WHAT is it now?!” He gave me these super sweet eyes and said: “Mom, I just came in to tell you…you are my BEST friend.” –age 3
SEE LITTLE DOUG, PAGE 5B
want to know that I didn’t miss out on the little moments because I was too busy pining for moments of grandeur. I want to leave this world joyfully knowing that I relished every possible experience with God, my love, my children, and my grandchildren. I want the tapestry of my life to be so colorful and vibrant that my family cannot help but smile when they remember me. I intend to live life masterfully…
“Grateful people are like fertile fields. They give back what they receive tenfold.”
“Therefore, the life in the body I gave you also belongs to me!” MY BODY! MY LIFE! (1 Cor. 6:19-20). Sin is a choice. Choices have consequences. Amendment 3 is a choice. What will you choose?
Come to me, all you who are burdened and stressed, and I will give you my rest In times, such as these, be a faithful, not a fearful, generation. Seek first my heavenly kingdom and I will heal your land and provide you with a peace that surpasses all human understanding. You are in the world, but not of the world Trust me. Be obedient and abide in my Word Be anxious for nothing and remember I am in control. I will never leave you nor forsake you. Stand firm and keep on the full armor of God. Be still. All is well. Amen & Amen
1
Dave Says: Imitate successful behavior
all the Baby Steps?
BY DAVE RAMSEY, CEO, Ramsey Solutions, and an
national
eight-time No.
best-selling author, and host of The Ramsey Show
Dear Dave,
My wife and I have paid off all our consumer debt, and we’re in Baby Step 3 building up our emergency fund to six months of expenses. When do you recommend buying a new car in the process? Do we have to wait until we’ve finished
Aaron Dear Aaron, Congratulations! You two are taking really positive steps forward in gaining control of your finances. I’m proud of you! Ok, I’m not sure if you’re talking about buying a newer car—like a great two- or three-year-old model—or an actual new car. I don’t advise buying a brand new car, unless you have a net worth of at least $1 million. Why? Because at that point, you’ve got enough assets that you won’t get rocked by the crazy depreciation that comes with buying a brand new vehicle.
Don’t get all down after
hearing this. I’m not saying you should drive a junker until you pay off your house. I recommend that people drive the minimum they can in terms of a car until they complete the first three Baby Steps. As you already know, Baby Step 1 is a beginner emergency fund of $1,000. Baby Step 2 is paying off all debt except for your home, and Baby Step 3 is fully funding your emergency fund with three to six months of expenses.
After you’ve accomplished the first three steps, then you can move up to a nicer car. Notice I didn’t say move up to a new car. I want you to save up cash, and get a really nice, slightly used
car—one that someone else has taken the big hit in depreciation on. That’s what the typical millionaire does. And I want you to model your financial behavior after people who are in the position you want to be in one day!
—Dave
***
This isn’t just a dispute Dear Dave, Recently, my husband and I discovered that his exwife used his Social Security number to open three or four credit card accounts. We’ve called the credit card companies, and we’ve disputed the charges and explained the situation. Is there anything else we can do?
Kendra
Dear Kendra, File a police report immediately, and if possible, have this woman arrested. That may sound harsh, but the fact is she has committed criminal fraud. That’s not something you, or anyone else, should take lightly. If you haven’t already, make sure you both also put fraud victim alerts on your credit reports immediately.
I’m very serious about this, Kendra. Don’t stop with just alerting the credit card companies. You should be speaking with, and communicating via email—plus snail mail—directly with the fraud victim division at every credit card company involved. And here’s the
really important part. Make sure they understand that this is a denial of responsibility on your part—not simply a dispute. Try to be nice, and let them know you’re sorry this happened. But clearly explain that all these charges are the result of a criminal act perpetrated against you. You may have to stand your ground with some of the credit card companies, because they might try to lay a guilt trip on you—or outright lie—to get you to pay the bills. Don’t do it. These charges are not your responsibility. I’m really sorry this happened to you folks.
—Dave
Department of Revenue: Digital era – rolling out new, modernized driver license system
dor.mo.gov
The Missouri Department of Revenue’s Motor Vehicle and Driver License (MVDL) division is preparing to deploy its modernized driver license and processing system at all license offices, with a launch date of Tues., Nov. 12. Installation of new equipment and the system conversion process for this vital upgrade will necessitate short license office closures. Customers with an expiring November driver license received an additional postcard notifying them of this transition.
While the Department is emphasizing that license
offices will be open on election day, Tues., Nov. 5, customers are advised to plan for interruptions to license office operations on the following dates: Wed., Nov. 6: License offices are open but only available for motor vehicle transactions. Driver license services will be unavailable.
Thurs., Nov. 7: Some license offices will be closed, and many will remain open for motor vehicle services only. For a list of license office closed on November 7: https:// dor.mo.gov/MV-DL/Office-Closures.pdf. Driver license services will be un-
available in all offices.
Fri., Nov. 8: All license offices throughout the state will be closed for system conversion.
Mon., Nov. 11 – Veter-
ans Day:
All license offices will be closed statewide in observance of the federal holiday.
“We want to thank our customers in advance for their patience and understanding during the transition. We are confident they will come to agree that it’s a small inconvenience compared to the benefits the modernized system will provide once it becomes
fully operational,” said Missouri Department of Revenue Director Wayne Wallingford, referencing the second and final phase of the modernization project, scheduled to roll out in July of 2026. “The second phase will be to the Department’s motor vehicle system, which will enable the two systems to ‘talk’ to each other. This final enhancement will make transactions much more seamless for our customers and our frontline staff.”
Phase II work will begin immediately after Phase I is complete. The in total three-year project was made possible by 2021
legislation creating an auto dealer administrative fee for an Administrative Technology Fund, dedicated to building a new integrated MVDL computer system.
The new system will replace antiquated legacy systems within the Department that include more than 50 disparate software programs with limited ability to work together.
“Since early August, the Department has been making available training opportunities for license office staff on the new driver license system,” said the Department’s MVDL Division Director Ken Struemph. “As with any major
system upgrade, we expect instances where processing times will be longer following rollout, and we encourage our customers to plan accordingly. Once fully operational, the Department will be much better positioned to fulfill Director Wallingford’s vision of providing every customer the best experience every time.”
Phase I improvements customers can expect include the following: Easier navigation of eServices, such as online driver license renewals
Eliminating the need for driver test results to be SEE LICENSE, PAGE 10B
The surprising amount of home equity you’ve gained over the years
First up is homeowner tenure. That’s how long homeowners live in a house, on average, before selling or choosing to move. From 1985 to 2009, the average length of time homeowners stayed put was roughly six years.
Tservices
BY HEATHER TANKERSLEY, REALTOR®,
here are a number of reasons you may be
thinking about selling your house. And as you weigh your options, you may find you’re unsure how you’re going to deal with one thing about today’s housing market – and that’s affordability. If that’s your biggest concern, understanding how much equity you have in your house could help make your decision that much easier. Here are two key factors that have a big impact on your equity. How Long You’ve Been in Your Home
But according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), that number has been climbing. Now, the average tenure is 10 years (see graph top right).
Here’s why that’s such a big deal. You gain equity as
you pay down your home loan and as home prices climb. And when you combine all of your mortgage payments with how much prices have gone up over the span of 10 years, that adds up. So, if you’ve lived in your house for a while now, you may be sitting on a pile of equity. How Home Prices Appreciate over Time
To help show how much the price appreciation piece adds up, take a look at this data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) (see graph bottom right)
Here’s what this means for you. While home pric es vary by area, the typical homeowner who’s been in their house for five years saw it increase in value by nearly 60%. And the av erage homeowner who’s owned their home for 30 years saw it more than triple in value in that time.
provides
for residential, commercial, land and lake properties in the Branson Tri-Lakes area.
BY JODY JOHNSON GODFREY Wellness Design Specialist
In the unrelenting search for sustained health and vigor, you don’t go too far before you encounter, yet again, some “eye opening” mention of great health results/benefits from green tea. I have been hyper-aware of it for more than ten years, and once the “establishment” food market comes to “bite” on it, you know some dissertation-quality research has surfaced.
One of my goals or objectives for this column was to be able to list about ten of “the best” known green teas on the market, but there
All about green tea
is way too much info to sift through, and so much is “subjective” that much to my disappointment, all I can is give you a very general guideline which is this: Try to ascertain that your green tea comes from Japan. Historically, the Japanese have had a considerably less amount of breast cancer and lung cancer than we Americans, and much of that is due to their tea consumption. However, there have been studies done in the past that tie breast cancer to an abundance of adipose (fatty buildup) tissue, and because of the Japanese diet, which WAS very low and for the most part VOID of fat, it would make sense, for that reason, that there was a lower rate of breast cancer. It is higher now, no doubt, because the Western (fat-loaded and palate pleasing) diet has been “imported” there for many years now. The lung cancer statistics
though cannot be explained, I don’t believe, short of their high consumption of green tea, because they smoke like chimneys over there and have for centuries.
Japan has been a major consumer of green tea for more than 4,000 years. As history has it, the origination was in China, but it was brought to Japan by Myoan Eisau, a Buddhist priest, who introduced the Rinzai School of Zen. The best Japanese green tea is said to be that from the Yame region of Fukuota Prefecture and the Uji region of Kyoto. Shizuoka Prefecture produces 40 percent of the raw tea leaf (much to my dismay this still doesn’t give us a brand name). There is a name, however, of a green tea called “Gyokura,” which is said to be the highest grade of tea cultivated in a special way. The English translation of its name is Jade Dew. This tea has a
very high caffeine content; however, the high concentration of “L-theanine” in this tea slows down and neutralizes the caffeine assimilation. Therefore, the amount ingested is minimal – like about 10-60 ml.
The rule of thumb is to steep the lower quality teas for a longer period and the higher quality for the shorter period. The average green tea has more caffeine than coffee (32 mg), but you can minimize your caffeine intake by the length of brewing time. As well, if you reuse your tea bags for a second and third time, the caffeine level drops to 12 mg. And then to 4 mg, respectively.
Aside from actual caffeine green tea has in it, there are a couple of caffeine wannabes called theophylline and theobromine which are stronger and weaker than caffeine, respectively.
The Zen priest Eisai
wrote a book in 1191, “The Kissa” (Book of Tea), which describes how green tea consumption positively affects the five vital organs— heart, liver, brain, colon/ intestines and lungs—most specifically the heart. The book discusses the medicinal properties, which includes but are not limited entirely to neutralizing and effects of alcohol, acting as a stimulant and anti-inflammatory agent, curing blotchiness, quenching thirst, eliminating gastrointestinal ills, curing beriberi disease and augmenting urinary and brain function. Everything one needs to know about cultivating and preparing the tea dosage for specific physical ailments is in this book.
How to prepare your body and mind for the end of daylight saving time
The good news: You will get a glorious extra hour of sleep. The bad: It’ll be dark as a pocket by late afternoon for the next few months in the U.S.
Daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. local time on Sunday, Nov. 3, which means you should set your clock back an hour before you go to bed. Standard time will last until March 9 when we will again “spring forward” with the return of daylight saving time.
That spring time change can be tougher on your body. Darker mornings and lighter evenings can knock your internal body clock out of whack, making it harder to fall asleep on time for weeks or longer. Studies have even found an uptick in heart attacks and strokes right after the March time change.
“Fall back” should be easi-
• LITTLE DOUG
Continued from page 3B
***
We were on our way to the bank and Little Doug was just chattering away in the back seat. Then we hear him say, “I can’t wait to be BIG and FLAT like you and Daddy when I grow up!” Me: (confused look) “Ummm…okaaay??”
Little Doug: “What, Mom?! It’s cool!” –age 4
***
Little Doug: “Mom, guess what?” Me: “What?” Little Doug: “Did you know that we have BACK teeth in our mouths?! And when you chew, they CHOMP down!”
Me: “Really? Wow.” Little Doug shakes his head: “I don’t know how you got to be an adult without knowing these things!” –age 5
***
Me: “Good morning,
er. But it still may take a while to adjust your sleep habits, not to mention the downsides of leaving work in the dark or trying to exercise while there’s still enough light.
Some people with seasonal affective disorder, a type of depression usually linked to the shorter days and less sunlight of fall and winter, may struggle, too.
Some health groups, including the American Medical Association and American Academy of Sleep Medicine, have said it’s time to do away with time switches and that sticking with standard time aligns better with the sun — and human biology.
Most countries do not observe daylight saving time. For those that do — mostly in Europe and North America — the date that clocks are changed varies. Two states — Arizona and Hawaii —
Buddy, how did you sleep?” Little Doug rubbed his eyes and said: “I slept like a bare kitten.” Me: “Ummm, do you mean a bear cub?” Little Doug: “No, I mean a BARE KITTEN.” Me: “Ummm,
don’t change and stay on standard time.
Here’s what to know about the twice yearly ritual. How the body reacts to light
The brain has a master clock that is set by exposure to sunlight and darkness. This circadian rhythm is a roughly 24-hour cycle that determines when we become sleepy and when we’re more alert. The patterns change with age, one reason that early-to-rise youngsters evolve into hardto-wake teens.
Morning light resets the rhythm. By evening, levels of a hormone called melatonin begin to surge, triggering drowsiness. Too much light in the evening — that extra hour from daylight saving time — delays that surge and the cycle gets out of sync. And that circadian clock
what does that mean?” Little Doug gave me a look like I’m not very bright and said: “You know, my blanket came off and I was freezing, but I was too tired to do anything about it!” –age 6
affects more than sleep, also influencing things like heart rate, blood pressure, stress hormones and metabolism. How do time changes affect sleep?
Even an hour change on the clock can throw off sleep schedules because even though the clocks change, work and school start times stay the same.
That’s a problem because so many people are already sleep deprived. About one in three U.S. adults sleep less than the recommended seven-plus hours nightly, and more than half of U.S. teens don’t get the recommended eight-plus hours on weeknights.
Sleep deprivation is linked to heart disease, cognitive decline, obesity and numerous other problems. How to prepare for the
time change
Some people try to prepare for a time change jolt by changing their bed times little by little in the days before the change. There are ways to ease the adjustment, including getting more sunshine to help reset your circadian rhythm for healthful sleep. Will the U.S. ever get rid of the time change?
Lawmakers occasionally propose getting rid of the time change altogether. The most prominent recent attempt, a now-stalled bipartisan bill named the Sunshine Protection Act, proposes making daylight saving time permanent. Health experts say the lawmakers have it backward — standard time should be made permanent.
(Photo submitted by Jody Johnson Godfrey)
BHS Performing Arts Department presents fall play
The Branson High School Performing Arts Department will present the fall play, “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.” Performances are scheduled November 14 at 7 p.m. and November 16 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. in the Branson High School auditorium. The students are under the direction of Erin Moody.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students, and can be purchased by visiting BransonHighSchoolTheatre.ludus. com. Tickets can also be purchased at the door on the night of the performance.
Winner of the 2013 Tony Award for Best Play, the story follows 15-year-old Christopher, a boy with an extraordinary brain on the autistic spectrum, who sets out to solve the mystery of a neighbor’s dog and discovers unexpected truths about himself and the world.
Branson School District: ‘Good Dads – Strong Schools’
Cedar Ridge Elementary hosted their second Good Dads – Strong Schools event of the school year recently, welcoming a cafeteria full of positive role models eager to engage in ways that strengthen their family unit.
Good Dads - Strong Schools is a before-school breakfast program focused on helping fathers and their kids become
more connected in a way that is both fun and supportive of education. “This initiative provides a meaningful avenue for dads or other positive role models to actively connect with their children, deepening bonds and fostering a sense of belonging,” says Cedar Ridge Elementary Principal, Dr. Michelle Collins. The morning was full of sharing laughs and building connections.
Dr. Collins shares, “When students feel safe, seen and heard at home and school, they are more prepared and motivated to learn. By engaging families in their child’s education, we create a stronger, more resilient community where every student can thrive.” The next Good Dads - Strong Schools event is on November 21 at 7:15 a.m. at CRE and is open to Buchanan Elementary and Cedar Ridge Elementary families.
Hollister ECC and Elementary School host Family Campout
Families from the Hollister Early Childhood Center (HECC) and Hollister Elementary School (HES) gathered for a memorable evening at the Second Annual Family Campout on Friday, October 25. With tents set up on the high school softball field, families enjoyed a night filled with food, fun and football, organized by HECC and HES administrators and staff.
The evening kicked off with a cookout, allowing families to relax and connect. Later, an ice cream social provided the perfect dessert before families settled in for a night under the stars. For added comfort and safety, security was provided throughout the event, allowing everyone to enjoy the experience to the fullest.
As the sun rose on Saturday morning, families were treated to doughnuts, rounding off a night of connection before they packed up and headed home.
“The Campout has become one of our most cherished events, bringing families and staff together in a unique and meaningful way,” said PK-5 Principal Mark Waugh. “Strong school and family connections are at the heart of what we do, and there’s no better way to build that than spending time together as a community. Everyone loves the event, and it’s truly a highlight of the year.”
The Hollister Early Childhood Center and Elementary School Campout stands as a testament to the district’s commitment to fostering close family and school connections. Hollister Band earns silver at Bands of America Super Regional in St. Louis
The Hollister High School Tiger Band earned silver placement in Class A at the Bands of America St. Louis Super Regional, held at the Dome in St. Louis. The Tiger Band demonstrated outstanding musicianship and performance. The prestigious event, one of only three Bands of America Super Regionals, saw Marion Catholic High School from Illinois take first place in Class A, with Berryhill High School from Oklahoma finishing third.
The Tiger Band will travel to Indianapolis, Indiana, to compete in the prestigious Bands of America Grand Nationals at Lucas Oil Stadium on November 15, where they will compete among the nation’s best high school bands. Reeds Spring Speech and Debate team snags trophies
The Reeds Spring High School Speech and Debate team competed at Kickapoo on October 19. Luke Sellers placed second in Novice Informative Speaking, Rielan Frisbie was third in Varsity Program Oral Interpretation, and Samara Lillie was sixth in Novice Dramatic Interpretation!
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Branson School District QR codes for Chalk Talk, social media SEE EDUCATION NEWS, PAGE 7B
Stay in Touch with Hollister Schools
(Photo submitted)
(Photo submitted)
Sellers, Frisbie, Lillie (Photo submitted)
(Photo submitted)
Reeds Spring Middle School to honor veterans with special assembly
Reeds Spring Middle School will hold a Veterans Assembly on Thursday, November 7, to honor those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. All veterans and their families are welcome to attend.
The event will begin with a reception featuring coffee and pastries at 8:30 a.m., followed by the program at 9 a.m.
Veterans are asked to RSVP by calling RSMS at 417-2728245. Reeds Spring Middle School is located at 345 Morrill Lane, Reeds Spring.
Arvest Bank rewards Reeds Spring teacher
Reeds Spring Middle School teacher Jennifer Mayfield plans to buy some sensory materials for her special education students, thanks to a $500 check from Arvest Bank.
Arvest’s “We Love Teachers” program awards checks to public school teachers in Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Kansas. Teachers are chosen based on classroom needs. The bank began this program in 2016.
Reeds Spring Middle School Students of the Month for October
Reeds Spring High School National Honor Society inductees named
Reeds Spring High School inducted 60 new members into the National Honor Society on Monday, October 21. NHS recognizes students who have demonstrated excellence in Scholarship, Leadership, Service and Character.
Members of the RSHS chapter must maintain a 3.25 GPA and perform five hours of community service each semester, including at least two hours of service to the school. Members are invited to join NHS during their sophomore through senior years. Congratulations to these new members: Sophomores: Mikayla Baker, Lillian Barton, Brennan Bilberry, Akira Bledsoe, Justin Bonner, Jack Borich, Haylee Cain, Alexis Campos, Elizabeth Chastain, Grace Chastain, Bentley Clevenger, Emilee Coleman, Mathew Crabtree, Kailey Criger, Colbie Cypret, Shelby Davis, Aenaria Deets, Illyssa Finney-Allen, Natylei Fish, Maryssa Hair, Colin Hejlek, Veronica Holland, Sommer Hornung, Kaelee Howe, Brenley Johnson, Grace Johnson, Saylor Johnson, Maya Kelley, Chloe Kugler, Mackenzie Kugler, Quinn Lemoine, Sidney Love, Evan Metcalfe, Hazel Morefield, Britney Nordin, Avery Phelps, Emma Putalavage, Madelyn Reynolds, Kaylee Sammons, Marina Schrunk, Elle Smith, Isabelle Sooter, Autumn Tharp, Dane Thierbach, Rihana Tilson, Colt Turley, Alexa Weber, Stephanie Westerhold, Mallory Wood Juniors: Brody Bekebrede, Rane Blair, Tessa Hime, Elizabeth Inselman, Allaina Johnson, Susan Leon, Jolie Sanders Seniors: Paitten Cypret, Marian Due, Dana Mennite Reeds Spring Middle School recognizes students for following PACK Pledge
Reeds Spring Middle School students have been asked to follow the PACK Pledge this year
P - Prepared
A - Accountable
C - Considerate
K - Kind
These students were recognized in October. Top row left to right: Makenzi Jasso, Ellie Hembree, Graci Johnson. Bottom row left to right: Vivian Redington, Peyton Clopton, Nevaeh Smith-Chaney
Reeds Spring Primary School Learners of the Month for October
Events for Veterans Week at College of the Ozarks
Submitted to Branson Globe College of the Ozarks will celebrate Veterans Day and will honor those who have served and sacrificed with special events Nov.
5-12. Events will include an opening ceremony, a POW/MIA remembrance service, and a Veterans sunrise service.
erans,” 2 p.m., Royal Oak Forum, in The Keeter Center
Thursday, Nov. 7
• “Breaking the Silence: Stories of Vietnam Veterans,” 2 p.m., Royal Oak Forum, in The Keeter Center
Friday, Nov. 8
Four Wolves earn All-Conference Cross Country
honors
Reeds Spring High School hosted the Mid-Lakes Conference Cross Counry Meet on October 23 at the new Wolf Pack Park. The Wolves had four runners place in the top 15 and receive All-Conference recognition. Connor
Brigadier General James Schreffler is in his 21st year of service at College of the Ozarks and was appointed vice president of patriotic activities last summer.
Love placed fourth and Lukas Hutson was 12th in the boys race. Jenna Adams was eighth and Kaylee Geniuk was 15th in the girls race.
Girls Golf: Saylor Johnson competed for Reeds Spring at the Class 2 State Golf Championship at Fremont Hills recently. On Day 1 she shot a 107 and a 102 on Day 2. She finished 48th overall.
Volleyball: The Lady Wolves lost in the recent district tournament to Clever 3-0, ending the season.
Football: The Wolves football team lost to Hollister 4028. Keagon Fish scored two touchdowns, Jace Bolin had one, and Nathan Mitchell had one. Lucas Wattenbarger added two two-point conversions.
His military career spans 33 years and he currently serves as Assistant Adjutant General (Army) for the Missouri National Guard.
“It’s essential we have ceremonies like this so students and the public don’t forget the sacrifices servicemembers and their families make, often at a great cost,” Shreffler said. The public is invited to attend all events. Admission is free.
Schedule of Events
Tuesday, Nov. 5 Veterans Week Opening Ceremony, 10-11 a.m. College of the Ozarks Patriots Park, hosted by Branson Veterans of America 913
• “Breaking the Silence: Stories of Vietnam Vet-
POW/MIA Remembrance Service, 8-9 a.m., College of the Ozarks Patriots Park, hosted by POW/MIA Network
Saturday, Nov. 9
• “Breaking the Silence: Stories of Vietnam Veterans,” 2 p.m., Royal Oak Forum, in The Keeter Center
Sunday, Nov. 10
“Breaking the Silence: Stories of Vietnam Veterans,” 2 p.m., Royal Oak Forum, in The Keeter Center
Monday, Nov. 11
• Veterans Sunrise Service, 7 a.m. Alumni Veterans Memorial
“Breaking the Silence: Stories of Vietnam Veterans,” 2 p.m., Royal Oak Forum, in The Keeter Center
Tuesday, Nov. 12
• “Breaking the Silence: Stories of Vietnam Veterans,” 2 p.m., Royal Oak Forum, in The Keeter Center
BACK FOR THE 2024
SEASON: Best Bets of Branson Live Talk Show Weekly Podcast
CEO, Owner & Live Talk Show Host, known as MediaChick Of The Ozarks, Carrie Anne Mitchell, is celebrating the 10 year anniversary, of the talk show, with a 2 day a week, live on Facebook podcast, from 10:45 AM-11:45AM, Tues & Fri.
Each live podcast episode, is also shared on the talk show’s Twitter & Instagram pages. Twitter: OzarkMediachick. Instagram: OzarkMediachick24. Each live talk show podcast, is all about Branson & the Ozarks, and is done, from.a local perspective, with a fun, positive spin.
Brought to you by our 28 sponsors: Bliss Gas Services, The Branson Globe, The Branson Show Awards,Branson’s Tribute To Johnny Cash, Camping World, Cindy Gilley, Consignnent Clothing Exchange, Dolce Vita Italian Ices, Dragon Wiens Designs, Fuschia Flip Chronicles, GT Graphics LLC,The Great Passion Play,King’s Castle Theatre, Made In The USA General Store, MarieZ, Michael Mayo Comedy Hypnosis, Michele’s Floral & Gifts, Nashville Roadhouse Live, Peggy’s Rock Shop, Premier Dance Academy, The Red Garter, Signs NOW, Stevie Lee Woods, Sunfest Market, Sweet Shack Branson,Sweet Suzie’s Frozen Treats, The Rogue Chef Branson. *For more info, on being a guest, or, a sponsor, call Carrie Anne at: 573-795-1921.
Wreath displayed at Alumni Veterans Memorial to honor S of O and C
Reeds Spring Middle School teacher Jennifer Mayfield (center) receives a check from Arvest Bank employees Nancy Akromis (left) and Andreea Westerhold (right). (Photo submitted)
Reeds Spring NHS inductees (Photo submitted)
Top row, left to right: Bash Pankovits, Perry Gideon, Conrad Aguila, Remington Carter, Kenai Warner, Piper Corporon; Bottom row, left to right: Anton Wachob, Lola Oxenreider, Charge Kluver, Levi Inselman, Sloane Weaver, Jency Patel (Photo submitted)
(Photo submitted)
Left to right: Tanner Thomas, Ella Reinsch, Nevaeh Smith-Chaney, Taylor Lanham (Photo submitted)
Adams, Hutson, Love and Geniuk (Photo submitted)
Johnson (Photo submitted)
Skaggs Foundation announces grantees for 2025
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff
Writer
On Thursday, October 24, representatives and friends of nonprofit organizations gathered at the Branson Chamber of Commerce offices for the 11th Annual Skaggs Legacy Endowment Grant Awards Ceremony. Each year, the ceremony celebrates the meaningful work done by grantees throughout the year, and the resulting impact of the grant-funded initiatives on lives in Taney and Stone counties.
Meghan Connell, President of Skaggs Foundation, opened the ceremony and introduced Grant Committee Chairperson Nita Jane Ayres; Foundation Board Chairperson Becky Roberts gave the invocation. Grant Administrator Nyssa Berhorst shared about driving to site visits of the applicants and recipients and seeing so many great people doing great things on a daily basis. She compared the efforts of the various organizations to a beautiful picture being painted across the Ozarks landscape.
Berhorst introduced speakers representing last year’s recipients. Dr. Staci Baker, principal at Galena-Abesville Elementary School, shared touching stories about the Galena Cents of Pride Store, one of several receiving assistance from the Foundation. She described the stores as empowering, giving students a source of pride in the accomplishments that enable them to have funds to spend in the stores.
Following Dr. Baker’s
remarks, Sandy Thompson shared the impact of the funding for the Children’s Smile Center, a nonprofit dental clinic serving Medicaid-eligible children. Many of the children served by the clinic are medically or emotionally fragile, requiring anesthesia during dental care, and the funds helped arrange a hospital setting for those procedures.
Ayres then introduced the 2025 grantees, with a brief description of the projects and services being funded for each. Recipients are grouped into general categories of Access to Care, Child & Family Safety, Dental Care, Healthy Lifestyles, Mental Health, and Substance Use. Access to Care
In the Access to Care category, recipients for 2025 include My Neighbor’s Charitable Pharmacy; Cox Medical Center Unites Stone & Taney Counties; Good Samaritan Fund for Cox Patients; Bariatric Recliners fund; Ultrasound and Bladder Scanning equipment
fund; Safer Air Medical Access through Central Taney County Fire Protection District; Cox Branson Patient Transportation Assistance; The Brook Wellness Center Transportation Assistance; Free Medical Clinic of the Ozarks rent and equipment funding; and Charis Group Transportation Access.
Child & Family Safety
Child & Family Safety recipients are OTC Table Rock Childcare Center for nursing students; Harbor House Domestic Violence Center
Wellness Project; Public Safety Classes and Training Room Access for the City
Awareness Education; Real Life Learning Scenarios for Central Taney County Fire Protection District; AED equipment for City of Kimberling Police Department; updated nurse’s office at Hurley Schools; OACAC Helping Hands; and CPR and classroom trauma kits at Bradleyville Schools.
Dental Care
In the Dental Care Category, OACAC will receive funding to assist underinsured patients, and Children’s Smile Center is again a recipient, with funding to provide stainless steel crowns for children who
See the story about Pathways Project Sex Trafficking education, starting on page 1A.
of Crane; Dad Prep U at Options Pregnancy Clinic; House of Hope Emergency Response for motel closures; Cents of Pride Stores at Boys & Girls Clubs and at Branson, Forsyth, Reeds Spring, Hollister, Galena, and Kirbyville; Pathways Project Sex Trafficking
might otherwise require extractions.
Healthy Lifestyles
Healthy Lifestyles funding was awarded to Reeds Spring Wolf Pack Park; Beyond Balance programs of MU Extension; BridgeFit scholarships for senior citizens and students through
White River Community Development; Sunny Side programs through the Branson Hollister Senior Center; youth sports scholarships through Branson Parks and Recreation; Thrive Academy’s Building Stronger Learners program; CAM Community Garden Initiative; and Tri-Lakes Special Education Cooperative’s Lending Love through Learning.
Mental Health Mental Health funding support went to Hope Counseling Center; Cox Branson’s Mental Health Network Initiative; Veterans of the Ozarks’ QPR suicide prevention program; Elevate Health Counseling Program; and Legacy Academy’s Harmony Haven Wellness Center.
Substance Use
Substance Use prevention and recovery funding was awarded to Simmering Center Respite Care program; Cox Branson’s Stone & Taney Counties Substance Use Initiative and Tobacco Cessation programs; and
The Brook Wellness Center’s Marijuana Brief Intervention.
Additional information about the grants and recipients can be found at SkaggsFoundation.org.
Nita Jane Ayres wrapped up the presentations by reminding all service providers to coordinate through the Unite Us platform for referrals and making sure patients receive the services they need. Ayres then received her own surprise, as Meghan Connell took the mic to announce this year’s Legacy Award, awarded to Ayres for her years of faithful and efficient service as chairperson of the Grant Committee. Connell closed the ceremony by explaining the Seeds of Change theme, signified by baskets of apples given to each grantee. Long considered symbolic of health, apples can be a regular reminder to all of us to support these wonderful nonprofits and be grateful each day for the important work they do.
Keith
Dallas
• LICENSE
from page 4B
Submitted to Branson Globe
For the eighth year, the Missouri Department of Transportation and the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety, along with various safety partners, schools and businesses throughout the state, are encouraging better driving behaviors as part of the annual Buckle Up Phone Down Day on October 30. The day challenges all drivers to do the two most important steps while driv-
ing to reduce your risk of a fatal crash. The goal of BUPD Day is to have zero traffic fatalities on Missouri roads throughout the day.
To date in 2024, of the more than 740 fatalities in Missouri, 63% of vehicle occupants killed were unbuckled. Distracted driving is also a leading cause of crashes in Missouri. In 2023, distracted driving was cited in crashes that claimed 106 lives.
In August 2023, the Siddens-Bening Hands-Free Law took effect in Missouri, prohibiting all drivers from using a handheld electronic communication device while driving. The law aims to address distracted driving, which contributed to crashes that claimed the lives of more than 800 people across the state during the last decade. Paired with the requirement to wear a seat belt, the enactment of
Knckerbocker, Ellen A. 84 Reeds Spring Cremations of the Ozarks Norris, Ron 82 Republic Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory Sande, Juli Kay (Steckler) 69 Branson Cremations of the Ozarks Shafer, Crystal Berniece 87 Taneyville Cremations of the Ozarks Thornsberry, James Ray 79 Hollister Cremations of the Ozarks
the hands-free legislation means BUPD is officially law in Missouri. Additionally, the Missouri State Highway Patrol has been educating drivers on the new law for the past year, and law enforcement agencies throughout the state will begin writing citations for driving distracted beginning January 1, 2025. Since the creation of BUPD in 2017, Missouri’s seat belt usage rate reached an all-time high and the
number of people killed who were unbuckled has decreased. The movement has collected more than 55,000 pledges to BUPD and has expanded to more than a dozen states across the country.
In support of the handsfree law, many Missouri high schools are participating in AAA Missouri’s Show Me Your Score Safest Driver Competition. This competition will be held through the end of February 2025, and will measure participant’s acceleration, brak-
ing and phone usage habits. The goal of this competition is to promote positive driving habits and educate young drivers on how crucial it is to make smart, safe decisions behind the wheel, especially putting down the phone. More information on the competition is available at www.savemolives.com/ mcrs/smys.
Drivers can accept the challenge to BUPD at modot.org/bupd and spread the word on social media using the hashtags #BUPD and #BUPDDay.
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
• 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.
• 31 Wranglers Honky Tonk: Jukebox Winos, LIVE MUSIC, 5-7 p.m. Enjoy Dowd’s catfish and BBQ, steaks, pies, cobbler while we play favorite covers and original music. From 7-11 p.m.: Melody Hart & The All Star Band on main stage. Large dance floor. 625 Hwy. 165, Branson. For more information, 417544-1405.
NOVEMBER
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, 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.
• 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.
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.
• 2 Wonders of Wildlife’s Wild Waterway Rescue – Stream Cleanup. 12-4 p.m. We are excited to invite you to participate in the upcoming Wild Waterway Rescue Clean-Up event. 1305 S. Main Ave., Springfield. What to bring: reusable water bottles, comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for outdoor activities and temperature. What we provide: gloves, trash bags and grabbers. For more information: https://wondersofwildlife.org/event/ wild-waterway-rescue-stream-cleanup/
• 3 Branson Masonic Lodge #587: Spaghetti lunch, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Fundraiser for Masonic Lodge. All you caer to eat spaghetti, garlic bread, salad, dessert and drink for $10.00. At 100 Chiefs Ct., Branson. For more information, 318349-2559.
Branson.
• 3 Malt & Barrel Brewing Co.: Jukebox Winos, LIVE MUSIC, 3 p.m. Enjoy local craft beer and cider on tap along with local wines in the retro vintage vibes cozy space. Order pizza from next door or bring your own food. We’ll play favorite covers and original music. 225 Cross Creek Blvd., Suite G., Branson For more information, visit jukeboxwinos.com or call 417242-1048.
• 4 Cox Branson: Cox Medical Center Branson will host vendor fair featuring representatives from palliative care, hospice agencies, funeral homes and in-home care agencies, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., in the hospital’s conference rooms, 525 Branson Landing Blvd. This event is free and open to the public.
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.
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
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
• 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:
• 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.,
• 5 Library Center of the Ozarks: Kids in the Kitchen, 4:30 p.m. Kids in the Kitchen is a fun hands-on program offered by the University of Missouri Extension that teaches kids how to prepare simple recipes and encourages them to be active and eat healthier meals and snacks. Recommended for ages six and up. Library Center of the Ozarks, lower level program room, 200 S. 4th St., Branson.
• 8 Cellar 417: Jukebox Winos LIVE MUSIC, 5-7 p.m. Enjoy fresh, seasonal, shareable dishes in a tapas style; large selection of wines, beers, cocktails; full bar, restaurant and patio seating with gorgeous lake view. We play favorite covers and original music. 15038 Bus. Hwy. 13, Branson West. For more information, www.jukeboxwinos. com or call 865-2235527.
• 8 Nature Crafting: Dreamcatchers with the American Indian Center of Springfield, Wonders of Wildlife, 6-8 p.m. Learn how to make dreamcatchers! Experts from the American Indian Center of Springfield will guide you while you learn more about the importance and history of dreamcatchers. Join us for a night of creating, learning, and celebrating! 500 W. Sunshine St., Springfield. https://wondersofwildlife.org/event/ nature-crafting-dreamcatchers-with-the-american-indian-center-of-springfield/
BEETLEJUICE E 1:10, 4:10, 7:10 TWISTERS E 12:30, 3:30, 7:20
WILD ROBOT W 1:30, 4:00, 6:50
Thousands of twinkling lights: Branson Brilliance Tree displayed downtown
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A special Christmas tree lighting was held on Sunday night in downtown Branson.
Many gathered to enjoy Christmas music— despite the unseasonably warm weather—prior to the official lighting of the tree, located next to Peddler Pete’s Tradin’ Post on Commercial Street. Motown Downtown provided fantastic music, as did Branson’s Rick McEwen and special guest Jena Moulds, who was described as having “the voice of an angel” by members of the audience.”
“The Historic Downtown Branson Community Improvement District are the ones that do the trolley and different improvements,” explained Board member Cris Bohinc. “Our Board decided this year to put up this magnificent tree. Beth from Accents is the one
who created it for us, and built it and designed it. Peddler Pete’s is the one that allows us to use their property.”
At 35-feet tall, the tree, known as the Branson Brilliance Tree –is an exquisite addition to downtown Branson. “It has thousands of lights on it,” said Beth Reid, of Accents. “It has meteor lights—those that are dripping down, which is something that no other tree in town has. Every snowflake has a little bit of something different on it, because snowflakes are like us—everybody’s different.”
Previously, the downtown Branson tree has been located in nearby Liberty Plaza.
Gary Lloyd, owner of Peddler Pete’s, explained the change in location. Said Lloyd, “Tom, who is my neighbor, who is the lawyer, asked if this lot was available to put
the tree up, instead of in Liberty Plaza, and I said I would be thrilled to have it.”
About his store, Lloyd added, “It’s just a great variety store. We have a little bit of everything. Old, new, in between. The people that come in and visit with us tell us it’s the best store
in town. We hear that all the time.”
Peddler Pete’s is located at 121 South Commercial Street in downtown Branson. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
The Branson Brilliance Tree will remain a focal point of downtown Branson until after the first of January.
AT RIGHT: Located in downtown Branson, the city’s Christmas tree sparkles with thousands of lights. (Photo by
Author creates magical event to debut new books
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A local businesswoman-turned-author realized a dream come true last week when she launched not one but two books at the same time!
Angie Roberts Harris debuted her two newest books - “Finding Fred Experiences an Ozark Mountain Christmas” and “Papa’s Magical Day” - in a truly magical event at the Stone Castle
Hotel.
“I’m thrilled to share the story about an Ozark Mountain Christmas,” said Harris. “The book is darling, but the autograph pages in the back turn it into a true souvenir.”
In the Finding Fred book - the second in what promises to be an exciting series - Fred experiences all that Branson has to offer during the holidays, including
many of the music mecca’s live shows.
“Introducing children to live shows gives them something magical to dream about,” said Harris. It’s not just about entertainment, it’s about inspiring their imagination.”
Attendees to the book launch were excited to meet Papa and Baby Duck, the central characters to Harris’ book “Papa’s Magical Day.”
In addition to the beloved characters from Harris’ books, other special guests included Brandon and Megan Mabe and Tim and Timothy Dutton, who read the books to those in attendance, and signed autographs. Other local personalities helping to share Harris’ books with the audience included Cy Bortner (Reeds Spring Schools), Craig Wescott (The Track
SEE NEW BOOKS, PAGE 2C
K.D. Michaels) BELOW: The crowd gathers downtown for the lighting of the Branson Brilliance tree. (via Facebook)
Angie Roberts Harris with Papa, from “Papa’s Magical Day (Photo submitted)
BY COWBOY JOHN FULLERTON, a native of Taney County, and a member of the Sons of the Pioneers.
Last week I gave ya’ll a look into Harold Bell Wright’s impressive career as America’s best-selling author in the period of 1908 going into the 1920s. Much of Wright’s success was thanks to his dear friend and publisher, Elsbery Reynolds.
Reynolds, who was the owner of Book Supply Company, met Wright at a revival meeting in Chicago. I’ll get into that here in a moment.
Elsbery W. Reynolds was born in Carroll County, Missouri, on February 7, 1868, just south of Chillicothe. He was the third of six children born to Elsberry Reynolds Sr. and Minerva (Smock) Reynolds. In 1888, he married May Miller in Harper, Kansas. They would have two sons. Reynolds founded the Book Supply Company in Chicago in 1895, owning it for a total of 31 years when he sold it in 1926. It was your typical mail-order bookselling firm.
The two became instant friends and would remain in touch. It was while Wright was in Pittsburg that his congregation took interest in a series of sermons he had written describing hypocrisy in the Church. Soon his congregation suggested he publish it as a written work. During their Sunday night meetings, Wright had read his chapters on the topic and in 1902 it was published as a series in “The Christian Century,” the denomination’s official weekly journal.
Wright was not too thrilled with the magazine version of his story as it was heavily cut and edited, but his congregation and personal doctor continued to encourage him to release it in book form. Wright and
In the late 1890s, Harold Bell Wright had been based in the Missouri Ozarks, and had already met the Rosses who were living just south of Garber in Taney County. In 1898, Wright accepted a five-year pastorate at the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Pittsburg, Kansas. Wright traveled to Chicago for a revival meeting at the Jackson Boulevard Christian Church sometime around December 1901 into January 1902. This is where Elsbery Reynolds met Wright. Reynolds recalled, “Mr. Wright delivered a sermon entitled Sculptors of Life that was so impressive that I sought him out with entreaties to repeat his sermon as a lecture to a certain company of young people.”
Family Fun Parks), Melissa Hartley (Dick’s 5 & 10), Denver Brown (a nurse practitioner with Cox Family Health) and the Branson Fire Department. Additionally, Branson Police Officer Brooke Palmquist and businessman Greg West translated the books into American Sign Language. The evening included many special touches, including Papa greeting guests with balloons,
v isitor BRANSON
Elsbery Reynolds would come to a contract agreement and “That Printer of Udell’s” was released in 1903, a 468-page book containing 29 chapters. A total of 2,500 first edition copies were printed. Much of the novel was autobiographical, but the readers were unaware of that.
Reynolds was now on his way as a publisher just as Wright was on his way as an author in the ministry of print. Their author/publisher relationship continued to build and after Wright’s 1907 “The Shepherd of the Hills” instantly sold a million copies, Reynolds suggested that Wright release a completed book manuscript every two years.
he two men would work together until 1919 with a total of nine books, and work in the movie production business until 1922. Reynolds would spend thousands of dollars in promoting each of Wright’s novels. This is truly what contributed to Wright’s success as an author making him a household name all across the country.
In 1912 Reynolds and his family left Chicago, moving to Pomona, California. They built a home in Relay Heights and soon Elsbery would get involved in automotive sales as a Studebaker dealer, and he would continue publishing Wright’s novels.
Wright and his family had
snow falling at the hotel entrance, and delicious pumpkin fudge from Dickens Gift Shoppe. Those in attendance enjoyed themed cakes, cookies, cupcakes and popcorn, as well as some special door prizes. The oversized
relocated to Redlands, California, in early 1907. This definitely helped in their business relationship, being located closer together, even though Reynolds believed Wright and his family needed to be based in Chicago or New York as all major publishers were based there.
Reynolds, to my knowledge, was an author to a certain extent, he just wasn’t that well known. In August 1916, he wrote and published a small twenty-page booklet, “Harold Bell Wright—A Biography.” His most well-known release, which came out in the 1920s was an interesting book of poetry about Studebaker cars, entitled “AutoLine o-Type.” This book often shows up on eBay, and occasionally signed copies can be located.
The New York Times printed this short piece announcing Reynolds’ passing, January 13, 1943. Here it is in its entirety.
Elsbery W. Reynolds, who become publisher of Harold Bell Wright’s novels after a chance meeting with the author, is dead. He was 74 years old. Mr. Reynolds, who formerly lived in Chicago, died Wednesday night.
In Chicago, Louis N. Black, owner of the Book Supply Company, and formerly an assistant to Mr. Reynolds when the latter was President of the concern, said that Mr. Reynolds
book pages invited guests to step into the stories being read.
For Harris, the evening highlight was the cake cutting, reminiscent of cutting her own wedding cake with Papa 30 years prior.
was so completely sold on Mr. Wright’s novels, that he spent $100,000 in advertising on each of his six or seven of his works published here.
Mr. Reynolds not only took full-page newspaper and magazine advertisements promoting the author’s works but he resorted to the direct mail method, circulating promotional material among bankers, teachers, and ministers throughout the nation.
Harris also announced that her beloved character, “Finding Fred, will return to Branson, as her next book will feature Fred in a Branson summer experience.
“Wright,” said Mr. Black, “was unheard of until Mr. Reynolds published Wright’s first novel, ‘That Printer of Udell’s’ in 1903. As a result of his advertising methods, he sold millions of Wright’s books.”
There you have it—the great Elsbery Reynolds. He remained based in Pomona, California, until his passing, and was laid to rest at Pomona Valley Memorial Park.
Happy trails to ya’ll.
To find out more about Harris’ books, visit her website, GoingOutTheDoor.com
Here’s a real rare one! From 1924, a full book of poetry and automotive history describing the reasons why every household should own a Studebaker! Written by Elsbery Reynolds, who was Harold Bell Wright’s publisher. (Photo by 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.
The saloon: You have seen the movie a thousand times. A gunslinger just released from prison is looking for the brothers that set him up and stole the family farm.
He slams through the swinging bar doors and scowls across the room. The piano player misses a note and slowly stops. There’s a music sign over his head that reads, “Don’t shoot the pianist, he’s trying his best,” the bar becomes silent, all eyes turn towards the newcomer.
One of the Plumer boys is playing cards with his back to the gunslinger but everyone at the table knows what’s happening and slowly scoots their chairs back. Our star walks towards the bar but in the blink of an eye, Plumer reaches for his gun only to be outdrawn by the gunslinger. Frontier justice has just taken place…
”Cut!”
The saloon was a hub where new arrivals and
In the old West, a saloon door swings both ways
locals all went. It was the place to be.
Back in the day, saloons weren’t fancy like on Hollywood sets. Tents, lean-to’s, dugouts and caves all dotted the West attracting thirsty travelers. Think about it: If you had a place with gambling, alcohol, grudges, women and firearms, all hell is going to break loose and it did.
Lore has it in 1860, St. Joseph had a population of around 10,000 with 129 saloons. A few years later, likewise, Leavenworth, Kansas, had 16,500 people with 150 watering holes.
The mixing of different types of people could cause mayhem: gunfighters, cowboys, farmers, soldiers, yes - Indians, settlers, drunks, dandies and painted ladies. With that said, we are just talking about the happenings downstairs, what goes on in the rooms above the bar is a subject for another column, in perhaps another publication.
Most saloons served warm whiskey and beer out of barrels. On screen, you see bartenders pouring drinks from bottles but that didn’t happen until later. Some joints short on space used the barrels as stools at the bar but many saloons of the day were “stand up bars,” where there were no women or chairs, only alcohol and the obligatory spittoon.
Down the street from the local cemetery is Kelly’s Pub, it was a “stand-up bar.”
Did its best business on funeral days both before the
burial and after, for an impromptu wake.
Animals loved the saloon scene too. Dogs, mice, rats, varmints, cats and horses made up the menagerie that leaves you with an idea of the cleanliness and stench of the place. Outhouses, thank the whiskey gods, were out back.
The quality of the product varied widely with many proprietors cutting their whiskey with stuff that could kill you: turpentine, ammonia, gunpowder, tobacco juice and even formaldehyde. Just think of the cringe on an actor’s face as they react to their first shot of whiskey for the day.
Alcohol poisoning was a thing. Bartenders kept on pouring as long as you paid or had good credit. There were no guardrails or designated drivers.
Tolerated by the times, alcoholism was a major problem, but people didn’t know how to treat it. Elixirs and fraudulent treatments sprang up, most laughable. The Keeley Institute used bits of gold put into a solution to somehow suppress your want for a drink and A. B. Baines’ famous potion could cure anything from baldness, bad breath and bunions to toothaches.
Saloons were sanctuaries, for a varied type of crowd seeking whatever.
Some saloons were even safe havens for hard drug users, having an opium den in the back or a local pusher of laudanum at the end of the bar was not uncommon.
In this area with the Civ-
il War on the horizon there were Yankee supporting bars and taverns that took a Southern bent. Most peoples’ allegiance were known but many merchants tried to straddle the fence doing business with both sides.
Having so many saloons and different passionate stances, long festering feuds and drunken arguments turned into violence easily, people died in the streets regularly.
The history of alcohol is as old as mankind itself, from the time millenniums ago when someone left fruit in a vessel too long, fermentation took place. Then eating it, not wanting to waste anything and getting that “buzzed feeling.”
Alcohol has entertained and cursed mankind ever since. China, Mesopotamia and
Egypt have all left evidence of wine and beer being consumed by their elite and in ritual ceremonies.
Beer, whiskey and saloons were big business in the old west and continue today. In the United States, we consume 6.3 billion gallons of beer and 20 million cases of whiskey annually.
Yuengling is the oldest continually run brewery founded in 1829 while popular and expensive Buffalo Trace was first distilled over 200 years ago.
Back to being able to visualize John Wayne walking through those swinging doors looking for someone and heading to the bar. “I’m here to kick ass and drink some whiskey but pilgrim, I’m plum out of whiskey!”
If he’s talking to you, run for the hills!
So if you are headed to Tombstone, Dodge City, Cripple Creek or Deadwood to play a little cards, there are 1890 themed saloons in all those places, minus most of the animals.
W.C. Field loved the drink, “If I had my life to live over again, I’d live over a saloon.”
Even Mark Twain had some whiskey thoughts: “Fortune knocks at every man’s door once in life, but in many good cases the man’s in a neighborhood saloon and didn’t hear her.” So being the double-edge sword of saloons, it’s a spot to meet, be entertained and enjoy life or a place of sin, excess and violence. The saloon is like life itself—it’s what you make of it. Thank you. I’ll have another!
Southern Missouri Arts Connection will host new exhibit ‘Divius Figura’
BY LYNNETTE HORN
In its upcoming art ex -
hibit, Southern Missouri Arts Connection (SMAC) will be featuring the work of Sophia Nangle, a Branson native now living and working in Kansas City. Her solo exhibit, “Divius Figura,” will run from November 1-30 at the SMAC Art Center gallery on historic Downing Street in Hollister. Nangle’s work is an exploration into what it means to be human.
“I have this curiosity about humanity,” she said. “What is the essence of humanity if in a void, in nature or in relation to others?” Her art takes on an otherworldly feel as she explores that question.
An opening night reception will be held Friday, November 1, from 6-9 p.m. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. Attendees may view the exhibit, tour the private studios and enjoy complimentary refreshments.
The Vintage Paris Coffee kiosk will also be on site. Each month during their exhibits, SMAC highlights one of the many local nonprofit organizations that serve the area. This month
SMAC is drawing attention to the Skaggs Foundation, which funds patient programs, supports Cox Hospital in capital improvement projects, provides student scholarships and impacts thou -
sands of lives through its community grantmaking program Skaggs Legacy Endowment.
Southern Missouri Arts
Connection (SMAC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit local center of creativity, art education, innovation and community partnership,
strives to improve the quality of life in southern Missouri by connecting individuals with the arts, for the benefit of all.
(Photo submitted by Bob Ford)
BY LUANNA FULLERTON Entertainment Writer
What an outstanding premiere of a wonderful story based on the life of David Rosenau. A police officer to a narcotics detective to a pastor. This movie was filmed in Wisconsin and actually had four people from Branson involved in it. I can say that it was involving, had
Area Entertainment: ‘One By One’ movie premiere
the audience laughing and crying at times. If a movie has this and can still be based on such a life, then it will definitely go places. The premiere was held recently at the Branson IMAX for its first showing, besides to a small audience in Wisconsin. Both showtimes were well attended, and thank you for showing up to support our “Branson Stars.” Between the two showtimes, they had a question-and-answer time with the stars and with the producer and director. The director shared about upcoming other movies that are in the works and the Branson possibilities. What an exciting time to be a
Bransonite!
The stars talked about their roles or features in the movie and what it was like to be on site for the filming. Steven spoke about getting the era times backgrounds and objects, especially on a select budget. Lots of things were borrowed and made by the staff at the direction of other professionals. Beth Zambo, wife of Steven, spoke about the wardrobe situation. She stated that the difficult part was the family growing and the era that this was portraying. There were approximately 40-plus actors and actresses in this movie. This is the eighth feature film that they have produced. They started casting for this film in June 2023, and the film was completed and shown for the first time in September 2024. This film was written, directed and produced by Steven Zambo and Salty Earth Productions. We definitely need more films like this in our lives right now.
Salty Earth Productions are the owners and producers of this film and so many more wholesome family films. Salty Earth Produc-
tions is a not-for-profit organization out of Fort Atkinson, WI. You can find their many other movies online at their website: saltyearthpictures.org
I had a chance to ask the stars some questions.
1. What is your name, character and where are you from?
2. What got you inspired to get into entertainment?
3. What is your favorite thing about this movie?
4. Who is someone you would love to have a meal with (dead or alive) and why?
5. Tell me anything else you would like to share. And here are their answers.
Peggy Lee Brennan
1. My character in the movie is Linda, and I play the wife of “Brian” who is also my real life husband, Geoffrey Hastings Haberer.
2. I started dancing when I was little but my inspiration for theater really came when Sr. Antonia and Sr. Ramonde in high school asked me to audition for the lead in “Bye Bye Birdie” (our school production), and I got the role of Kim (Ann Margaret’s part in the movie) and the rest is history. That’s when I got the bug and that’s what I’ve done for my professional life.
3. It was such a joy to work with Salty Earth productions. We met the producers/creators/ writer/ director Steven and Beth Zambo over three years ago at the Branson film festival and were so impressed with some of their films we had seen screened, and we knew we wanted to work with them. The experience was so professional, creative and overall uplifting. We filmed in Wisconsin where Salty Earth is based and the entire community
comes together to make it happen. Steve and Beth’s daughter, Jessica, is the DP and editor and we were so grateful to be surrounded by such talent.
4. The person I would most want to share a meal with would be Jesus Christ. He knows and loves me more than I could ever imagine, and I would ask about the plans He has for me in this “latter” half of my life, etc. I would thank HIM for HIS mercy and grace all these years as well!!!
5. I love that I got to work on a movie that uplifts all that I believe in. I hope to get to work again on more projects with this fabulous group of people!
Geoffrey Hasting Harberer
1. My character in the movie is Brian and I play opposite “Linda,” who is played by my real-life wife, Peggy Lee Brennan.
2. My first play was “The Very First Christmas,” written and directed by my mom, Maureen Haberer. This was the first of several Christmas shows that we, as a family, put on for the local community. I was four months old (the youngest of four children), so my older siblings played Mary, Joseph and Angel Gabriel. I don’t remember that one too well, but they said that I was great!
LOL!!
Our subsequent Haberer Family Christmas productions included “Scrooge,” “The Littlest Angel,” “A Tree Grows In Brooklyn,” “Christmas At Gettysburg” and “A Christmas Carol.” I went on to perform in my Ramsey, NJ High School theatre productions. In college I sang with the Rutgers Glee Club and performed in college theatre productions, while earning my degree in
special education. Upon graduation, I moved to NYC to study method acting at the famed, (William Esper Studios) and within six months I was performing professionally in and out of NYC.
3. It was a joy to work with Salty Earth Productions. Shooting the film in northern Wisconsin was fun because the crew was magnificent, the community was supportive and the locations were pastoral.
4. The person with whom I would most like to share a meal is John the Baptist. My first question would be, “John, how did you know at first sight that Jesus was the Savior about whom you had preached about and how were you able to maintain your unshakable faith to the death?
5. It’s a joy to be a part of creative projects that glorify God and uplift the truth.
Lance Brown
1. My name is Lance Brown, originally from California, now a Branson local for the last three years. In the movie I play the lead character David Rosenau. Based on a true story, about an undercover narcotics detective turned pastor.
2. I got into entertainment by going to clown college at 17, the last one in 1997 with Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Since then, I’ve worked on everything from cruise ships, as a comic to various TV shows and minor movie roles. This is my first lead role.
3. My favorite thing about this movie is the power of a story and testimony and following God’s call. You can affect others in such a powerful way… One By One!
TOP: Crowd gathers for 3 p.m. showing; BOTTOM: Lance Brown and his wife Loron, Beth Zambo, Steven Zambo, Peggy Lee Brennan, Dale Green (Photos submitted by Steven Zambo)
Stix Golf Lounge to celebrate grand opening with ribbon cutting event
Submitted to Branson Globe
Stix Golf Lounge, the newest sports bar and entertainment destination in Kimberling City, is excited to announce its grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at 4 p.m.
Stix owners, Kristie and Brody Usher said, “Kimberling City and the surrounding area offer so much, and we’re proud to be a part of that. With Stix Golf Lounge, we’re hoping to provide a
space where people can relax, have fun, and enjoy the game of golf in a whole new way.”
The Table Rock Lake Chamber of Commerce will facilitate the ribbon cutting, and Stix Golf Lounge will host a grand opening party to welcome community members, local businesses, and craft beer and golf enthusiasts to celebrate the launch of this state-of-the-art facility
“Along with our state-ofthe-art golf simulators, we offer eight rotating craft beers
on tap, a selection of wines, and shareable appetizers— creating a sports bar atmosphere where people can enjoy great food and drinks, and have a blast with friends,” Kristie Usher added.
Stix Golf Lounge offers a unique experience for all ages and skill levels, combining top-of-the-line golf simulators with a relaxing lounge atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just looking for a fun way to spend time with friends,
Stix Golf Lounge provides an innovative approach to golfing year-round, regardless of weather conditions.
Kristie and Brody Usher expressed excitement about opening the doors to this new venture: “We feel incredibly lucky to live in a region known for some of the best golf courses in the country. Stix Golf Lounge is an extension of that passion for the game, providing a way for golfers of all skill levels to enjoy top-tier cours-
es year-round, rain or shine. We’re thrilled to offer an experience that allows locals and visitors alike to work on their swing, play a round of golf, or simply enjoy hanging out with friends in the laid-back environment.”
As part of the celebration, attendees can check out the sports bar and facility, try out the golf simulators, enjoy sweet treats, and maybe even win prizes. This event is open to the public, and the entire community is in-
America’s No. 1 theme park Christmas event returns to
Submitted to Branson Globe Ready, set, glow! Jingle all the way back to the magic of Christmases past at Silver Dollar City’s “An Old Time Christmas,” six-time winner of USA Today’s “Best Theme Park Holiday Event.”
Be immersed in the nostalgia of childhood wonder as The City shines brighter than ever with more than 6.5 million lights lining nearly every board of every building. From Nov. 2 to Jan. 4, enjoy festive flavors around each corner, two Broadway-style shows, plus rides and attractions to ramp up your Christmas spirit. The holiday journey begins with Joy on Town Square, an eight-story Christmas tree
light and music show that’s merry and bright! The electrifying production is synched to classic carols and displays angels, shepherds, ornaments and snowflakes 360 degrees around the tree and plays every 15 minutes each evening.
Just steps beyond Town Square, the park’s most concentrated light display,
Christmas In Midtown® Light Spectacular, glitters and glows with more than 1.5 million lights. That’s 145 miles of the brightest bulbs illuminating the center of The City with festive photo ops fitting of a Christmas card.
Broadway-style productions include “A Dickens’ Christmas Carol,” the Charles Dickens classic, complete with elaborate sets and special effects. The heartwarming story follows Ebenezer Scrooge one night as he encounters three spirits—the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future that will forever change his life. The final year of “Coming Home for Christmas” celebrates the season’s traditions with a live band and a talented cast of singers and dancers dazzling with nonstop Christmas cheer
WonderWorks Branson celebrates National STEM Day with fun science demonstrations
Submitted to Branson Globe
Both local and visiting families in the Branson area are invited to spend National STEM Day at WonderWorks Branson on Friday, November 8, 2024. There will be plenty of educational fun throughout the upside-down building, including live STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) themed experiments and demonstrations all day.
Guests will get a chance to be up-close and personal with topics such as pressure, insulation, chemical reactions and more. The team will also be unveiling a new special marine biology-themed experiment that aspiring scientists will not want to miss.
“A big part of the WonderWorks mission is making learning fun and inspiring a love of all things STEM in all of our guests, so we’re
excited to do just that on National STEM Day!” said Tim Church, education sales manager at WonderWorks Branson. “Don’t miss out on all the interactive experiments we have planned.”
vited to join the celebration of Kimberling City’s newest entertainment hub. For more information about Stix Golf Lounge, visit www.stixgolflounge.com
About Stix Golf Lounge
Stix Golf Lounge brings a modern twist to the traditional golf experience. With cutting-edge technology and a welcoming environment, it’s the perfect place for friends and families to gather, play and enjoy all the best the sport has to offer.
Silver Dollar City
reminding us that the real magic of the season is spending time with friends and family.
The most famous reindeer of all leads Rudolph’s Holly Jolly™ Christmas Light Parade through City streets with colorful, costumed characters, including towering elves and candy canes, penguins and a troop of marching wooden soldiers. Guests can upgrade to two VIP Parade Experiences with fun and festive snacks. Join Rudolph and friends for a meet-and-greet and hot chocolate, or watch the parade with Rudolph’s best pal for the NEW Clarice’s Dessert Party.
Cheerful family entertainment continues at the Silver Dollar Saloon where high-kicking fun reigns with Frontier Fa-La-La Follies! Marvel at Tinker Ju-
nior’s Toy Shop, featuring a 12-foot talking tree or be immersed in the miracle of Christmas with the Living Nativity. Catch a ride on the Frisco Sing-Along Steam Train or catch up with the big guy himself at Santa’s Cottage presented by Arvest for a photo and experience you’ll never forget. Warm up with wassail, hot chocolate and apple cider, and don’t miss two holiday buffet options: prime rib or a traditional turkey with dressing. Lunch with Santa is also back on select days. Sample other seasonal fares throughout The City with a Christmas Tasting Passport for $35 plus tax. For more information, visit silverdollarcity.com, call 417-336-7100 or download the free Silver Dollar City App.
give guests of all ages fun and interactive learning opportunities, including experiments, demonstrations and the chance to engage with over 100 hands-on exhibits.
National STEM Day is held annually on November 8, giving people across the United States a chance to put these critical fields in the spotlight. Engaging in STEM-themed activities is a goal of many schools and educational groups, and WonderWorks provides the ideal place for doing just that. Visiting WonderWorks during National STEM Day will
National STEM Day at WonderWorks will also feature the unveiling of an updated version of their popular Word Up exhibit. The updates, done in partnership with Merriam-Webster Dictionary, will include a new interactive word scramble, details on how words are formed, and a list of words recently added to the dictionary. Everyone is sure to
SEE WONDERWORKS, PAGE 9C
Frisco Sing-Along Steam Train (Photo submitted)
Captivating STEM exhibits (Photo submitted)
Branson/Springfield Roof Co. celebrates office opening
Submitted to Branson Globe
Branson/Springfield Roof Co. hosted a ribbon cutting on October 22, 2024, for its new office in Springfield. Team members celebrated with more than thirty people in the community who came out to support the company’s growth.
“We are excited to be a part of the Springfield community,” said Daniel Koren, founder of Branson/Springfield Roof Co. “Our goal is to provide quality products
and service to every roof, and now we are able to share that with a new area.”
The Springfield Chamber partnered with Branson/ Springfield Roof Co. to host the ribbon cutting. Many chamber ambassadors attended, including Ambassador Chairs Wade Shelton and Stephanie Matthews.
The office is located at 1309 East Montclair Avenue in Springfield. It is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday. For more details on the company and how they can help the community, please visit Branson/Springfield Roof Co’s website or contact 417-607-6637.
About Branson/Springfield Roof Co. Branson/Springfield Roof Co, located in southwest Missouri, is a roofing company founded by Daniel Koren. The company specializes in roofing, both
commercial and residential, with additional services in gutter installations and siding installs. They emphasize the use of high-quality, hail-resistant materials in their projects. The company is active within the local community, participating in chamber events and supporting various local businesses from Harrison, Arkansas, to Springfield, Missouri, and surrounding communities.
Port of Kimberling Marina celebrates new office building
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff
ny celebrating the new offices of Port of Kimberling Resort and Marina. Along with Chamber members, Port of Kimberling Marina staff were joined by representatives from Suntex Marinas
Waving
and representatives from Master’s Plan Construction. Guests enjoyed pizza, frozen treats and beverages while touring the new facilities, which will give an expanded central hub space for man-
agement of dock slips, maintenance supervision, and other essential functions formerly housed in much smaller offices inside the resort property. The new office building, located at 149 Marina Way
just up the hill from the resort, also offers a comfortable porch space with seating for marina/resort customers and slip owners to relax and socialize. If you’re planning a visit to Table Rock Lake,
contemplating a move to the area, or looking for a convenient way to get involved in boating on Table Rock, visit https://portofkimberling. com to check out the accommodations and services.
flags of all kinds: Veterans Week traditions continue at The Flagstore
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
One of Branson’s most unique and best-loved businesses is The Flagstore. Located in downtown Branson, The Flagstore is family owned and operated by one of the most patriotic families in the community—Chris Cartwright and his beautiful wife Michelle. The Flagstore, also known as Frontier Flags, has been a Branson staple since 1981. The treasured business was purchased by the Cartwright family in 2019.
“My husband retired from the Coast Guard after 29 years,” explained Michelle. “This was a way for us to work together.”
Chris and Michelle, with help from their daughter, handle the day-to-day operations in The Flagstore, and enjoy meeting and assisting the many tourists—and local residents—who visit their store.
“We carry American flags, state flags, country flags, military flags, stick flags and boating flags, all 100
percent made in the United States,” said Michelle. “We carry high quality Christian flags that are stitched, not printed. We also carry garden flags. We have spinners and windsocks. We have everything you need to accent your yard. We also sell military hats.”
Additionally, The Flagstore carries sports flags, flag poles, telescoping flag poles, and all of the hardware needed to display your flag.
This year, as they have
since they took ownership of the store, Chris and Michelle will have a booth at Veterans Village, as part of Branson’s Veterans Homecoming Week. Veterans Village is located at the Ballparks of America, Buildings 2 and 3, at 1000 Pat Nash Drive. Their booth will feature military hats, pins and other items of interest to the veterans and their families.
Another favorite Veterans Week tradition for Chris and Michelle is their annual
duck hunt at the Veterans Memorial Garden.
“Every day, ducks are hidden at the Memorial Garden, that can be brought back to The Flagstore or Veterans Village, in exchange for a hat,” explained Michelle. This year we have hats for men and women.”
New ducks will be hidden at the beautiful Veterans Memorial Garden, located at 1107 West Main Street, at the corner of 76 Country Boulevard and Roark Valley Drive, every
day of Veterans Week, November 5 through the 10th.
The duck hunt is a fun way to encourage visitors to enjoy the touching tribute to our nation’s veterans at the Memorial Garden. Ducks can be brought to either The Flagstore in downtown Branson or The Flagstore Booth in Veterans Village, to exchange for a hat. The Flagstore is located at 114 South Commercial Street in Branson, and is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Branson/Springfield Roof Co. celebrates ribbon cutting at its new Springfield office. (Photo submitted)
Writer On Friday, October 25, members and friends of Table Rock Lake Area Chamber of Commerce gathered for a ribbon cutting ceremo-
Marina staff prepare to cut the ribbon; Guests enjoyed pizza on the comfortable new porch; The interior includes custom lake-themed decor. (Photos by Cynthia J. Thomas)
This week and next, the
Sweet Potatoes with Brown Butter
BY CHEF JEFF WOODWARD, The Rogue Chef TIME: 35 minutes
SERVINGS: 4
INGREDIENTS:
• 3 Lbs Sweet Potatoes, diced (8 medium)
• 2 T Olive Oil
• 5 Garlic Cloves, minced
½ tsp Oregano
• ½ tsp Black Pepper
Pinch of Salt
• ¼ C Butter
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Preheat the oven to
425°.
2. Dice potatoes into 1” pieces and put them into a bowl.
3. Combine the olive oil, garlic, oregano, pepper and salt in a separate bowl.
4. Pour mixture over the potatoes and stir to combine.
5. Pour the potatoes on a foil lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until soft.
Beef Enchiladas
BY BOB SARVER
This is my recipe for enchiladas that I have been making for years. This has always been my way to enjoy homemade enchiladas.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 lb. ground beef - 85/15
• 1 sweet onion, diced
2 tomatoes, diced
• 8 oz. bag shredded lettuce
• 1 large bag of shredded Colby/cheddar cheese
• 1 can of red enchilada sauce
• 2 cans chili without beans
• 1 package flour tortillas
1 package taco seasoning
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Brown ground beef, diced sweet onion and taco seasoning mix; drain fat.
2. Mix the ground beef mixture in a large bowl with the diced toma-
6. Place butter into a small saucepan and heat over medium-low. Let the butter continue to bubble. It will change to a golden-brown color, which is when you know it is done. Fun Fact: There is a 5 second difference between brown butter and burnt butter.
7. Remove the potatoes from the oven and
toes, shredded lettuce and half of the shredded cheese.
3. Fill the flour tortillas with the desired amount, roll them and place in a baking dish.
4. Heat the chili and enchilada sauce in a pan.
5. Once the baking dish is full with the desired number, cover with the chili/enchilada sauce mixture.
place into a serving bowl.
8. Pour the brown butter over the potatoes and enjoy! GO ROGUE by adding 2T of brown sugar to the butter. Want Chef Jeff to make these delicious sweet potatoes for you? Contact him at www.TheRogueChefBranson.com .
6. Use the rest of the shredded cheese to top the enchiladas.
7. Bake at 300 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes. Check often so as to not burn the cheese.
8. Let enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving.
Note: Before placing the enchiladas in the baking pan, lightly coat the pan with heated sauce mixture.
U.S. Army Veteran Robert ‘Bob’ Sarver: Serving community with distinction and honor
Bob Sarver
was nominated as Branson Bank’s 36th Veteran of the Quarter, October 2019
STORY AND PHOTO COURTESY
BRANSON BANK
Robert Sarver was drafted into the U.S. Army in December 1966 and reported to Ft. Polk, LA for basic training and advanced logistical training. He was assigned to HHC 504th Field Depot in Cam Rahn Bay, South Vietnam, from 1967 to 1968 where he served in the Subsistence Branch ensuring the necessary materials and supplies reached their destination. He was assigned to the inactive reserves after returning to the states. During his service, Bob was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with Device, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal, two Overseas Bars, Sharpshooter Badge and Marksman Badge. He received an Honorable discharge on November 30, 1972, with a rank of E4.
After returning to the states, Bob devoted his life to the restaurant industry where he operated numerous restaurant companies and was President of Sarco Enterprises at his retirement. Bob served as Vice President of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 913, now the Branson Veterans of America 913, from 2008 to 2010 and as President from 2010 to 2014. He served on the Honor Guard/Color
I love that the film shows a real journey or faith with all the trial and errors along the way. Also, I love that it has such a wide range of emotion involved. Drama, even some comedic moments, it’s truly a beautiful
Guard and as the Public Relations Director as well as the Veterans Day Parade Director for the chapter for ten years.
Bob received the Honor America Award from the College of the Ozarks on June 30, 2013, and the Leadership Award from the College and Mr. Bill O’Reilly on October 10, 2013, for his leadership of the VVA 913. Bob was awarded the VVA 913 Member of the Year Award in 2015, as well
story and film. (Make sure to bring some tissues!)
4. I’d love to have a meal with Jim Carrey. He was the first comedian I saw that inspired me to go
as 2020, and the VVA 913 Blue Star Award for his outstanding and selfless service to veterans and his community in 2018.
Bob was instrumental in bringing the Missouri Vietnam Memorial to the College of the Ozarks Campus and participated in the dedication of the memorial. He presently serves as the Chairman of the Board of the College of the Ozarks Associates. Sarver
on this entertainment journey, and over the years, I feel he’s so close to receiving the gospel; I’d love to pray with him.
I was able to meet Jerry Lewis before he passed and that was such a blessing.
5. My prayer is that this film inspires believers and to help even one person and non-believers to see a real journey of how beautiful it is to trust In Jesus.
Also, there were moments while filming I could sense God with us, in the scene, and I hope it comes across the screen and the audience, too! I hope that they can sense God is right there with them, too!
Dale N. Green
1. I play the role of “Slicer,” a big-time drug dealer. I live in Branson West, but am originally from Seal Beach, California.
2. I started acting in plays since grade school, active in drama in high school, and minored in theater arts in college. But my biggest lifelong passion is screenwriting.
3. In the film, I love how God took Dave through so many diverse jobs and roles in order to train him for the most important role of all.
4. I would love to have dinner with my mother and father to share with them what they’ve missed in my life.
5. God’s gifts to us become our gifts to Him.
Good Food page will have recipes dedicated to veterans and Veterans Week... starting off with this delicious gem from Bob Sarver!
LARRY DABLEMONT is an outdoor publisher, columnist, author, speaker, naturalist and outdoorsman.
When we pulled into Canada’s Lake of the Woods country in early October, it was 70 degrees under a bright sun. Five days later it was still that way and it hadn’t changed much in the entire week we were there. In all the Octobers I have fished in northwest Ontario; I have never seen that kind of weather. Normally you can count on some temperatures in the 30s and 40s, some strong cold winds, and some rain at least part of the week. It is in most areas a wilderness, and beautiful with fall color and migrating waterfowl.
It has never bothered me to go up to Canada and fish alone because those conditions have never concerned me. My ancestry is from French Canadian trappers and Canadian Cree Indians so maybe that has something to do with it. In bad weather, you find a place out of the wind and concentrate on fishing those areas. And, in the fall, you don’t do much lure-casting unless you are
• WONDERWORKS
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leave with a few new words added to their vocabulary.
“This special event is a favorite with guests every year. Our team members are getting their lab coats ready and gearing up to teach our guests something new!” said Brenda Dent, general manager at WonderWorks Branson.
WonderWorks keeps the fun learning environment go-
Outdoors with Larry Dablemont: A fall fishing excursion
fishing for northerns or bass or muskies. If it is walleye you are after, you fish in 25 to 30 feet of water jigging bait or quarter-ounce jigs up and down off the bottom. You catch yellow perch that way and occasionally a bass, crappie or northern as well.
This year I didn’t go alone as I usually do. I took with me an old friend from college days who is a river guide in the Ozarks. Dennis Whiteside grew up on the Current River, and we began hunting and fishing together when we were 18. He is a very good fisherman who often contests my assertion that I am a better one, and a better boat paddler as well!
We spent the first day or so trying to keep up with who caught the most and the biggest. No doubt Dennis caught the biggest fish, a six- or seven-pound northern, but I got a bigger bass, a close-to four-pound smallmouth whose size my fishing partner questions to this day. The thing about Canadian Smallmouth is, they often have a 15- or 16-inch girth when their length doesn’t reach 20 inches. But do they fight! On the light gear we were using they made it a tussle in 26 feet of water. As for the walleye in Lake of the Woods today, they are a fish made for light action gear because most of them are 14to 15-inch fish, caught deep beneath the boat on sand or
ing all year. There are numerous other educational offers available, including:
• Student art contest: Local students can submit their work to be entered in to the annual OZARTcontest for a chance to have their work displayed in the attraction’s Wonder Art Gallery. This year’s theme is “The Nature of STEM,” and the deadline to enter is December 13,
small-rock substrates. Every day we fished different areas, most that I found years ago, and caught dozens of walleye, plus some 12- to 13-inch yellow perch and a few 15-inch smallmouth. I also caught a15-inch black crappie. Dennis caught that northern pike while fishing for walleye, and I hooked another big one minutes later that bit off my 6-pound line pretty quickly. It is the perch you would like to catch because you can bring home thirty of them and the filets are just like those of the walleye when it comes to eating. They are usually as large as those of an Ozark Crappie. On two different days I caught 17-inch walleyes. This year Ontario biologists, worried about the ever increasing fishing pressure on that giant lake, set a regulation requiring that no walleye above 16.9 inches can be kept. But who cares? We ate a bunch of 15- to 16- inchers at our cabin. If you should catch a walleye above 29 inches you can keep it according to the new rules. Twenty or thirty years ago there were no more walleye than there are now, but most were larger. I remember catching some 20- to 25-inch fish on each trip, sometimes two or three per day. Those days are over, but I make the most of it. On my light outfit, a 12-inch yellow perch or 15-inch walleye fights like a
2024.
• Field trips: K-12 students can explore a unique educational setting, getting hands-on learning opportunities while creating lasting memories with their classmates. There are discounted admission tickets for advanced group reservations, and a scavenger hunt can be requested to enhance the learning experience.
slab-sided lunker.
Last year on my birthday in mid-October I landed only two walleye above 17 inches in three days, a 19-incher and a hefty 23-incher. But I also boated the only genuine six-pound smallmouth I have ever caught. He weighed two ounces more than that on a Nestor Falls grocery store scale and later swam off to find the underwater haunts he likely still rules.
Each day the 70-degree temperature with light winds gave us the opportunity to fish in shirtsleeves, and we caught so many fish it was hard to complain about anything. We headed home one morning at 4:30 and got to Lightnin’ Ridge at 10:00 that night with a cooler full of walleye and perch filets.
Anyone can go to Canada and fish on a budget if you contact my old friend and bush pilot-guide, Tinker Helseth. I can put you in touch with him if you’d like, and tell you how to make a trip in the spring, summer or fall affordable. I have some numbered copies of Tinker’s book, “Tinkers Canada… Memoirs of a bush pilot.” You can get one by contacting me at 417-777-5227.
Our address is Box 22, Bolivar, MO 65613, and our email is lightninridge47@ gmail.com. You can read most everything I write on the computer at larrydablemontoutdoors.
Student achievement awards: Teachers can begin nominating their students for WonderWorks’ annual WonderKids program on November 8, 2024. This program aims to spotlight local students who go above and beyond in and outside of the classroom. The winners will be invited to attend an exclusive Zoom presentation with a special
guest speaker. The over 100 interactive exhibits at WonderWorks Branson have been designed to give guests a way to learn more about STEM/STEAM topics in a fun and memorable way. On top of this, they also offer various educational activities and events throughout the year. The upside-down house is the perfect spot for team-building activities, field trips, corporate events, group
outings, family reunions and more. There are numerous event packages and group rates available with advanced reservations. WonderWorks Branson offers over 48,000 square feet of family-friendly, engaging activities. The park is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily this fall. To get more information or purchase tickets, visit the site: https://www.wonderworksonline.com/branson.
TOP: Larry with the bass he wrote about; BOTTOM: Guess what’s for supper? (Photos submitted by Larry Dablemont)
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
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.
lassifieds
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 RECOVERY 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!
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
SUNDAY, NOV. 3 @ 1 p.m. 190 BUNKER HILL, BRANSON
FROM HWY. 65 & BEE CREEK RD., TAKE BEE CREEK RD. TO RHINEHARDT RD. AND FOLLOW SIGNS REAL ESTATE SELLS AT 1 p.m.
OPEN HOUSE FRIDAY, NOV. 1, 5 - 6 p.m. OR BY APPOINTMENT
3BR 2BA BRICK HOME W/2 CAR GARAGE AND STORAGE BUILDING W/WOODED 1.3 ACRES 1989 CHEVROLET 4X4 PICK UP W/ CRATE MOTOR 140,000-JOHN DEERE MOWER W/50 HOURS-NICE MODERN FURNITURE-WHITE/GRAY DINING TABLE W/6 CHAIRS-NEW WOOD GRAY L SHAPED DESK-KING WOOD BED FRAME & 2 NIGHTSTANDS-WOOD COFFEE & END TABLES-2 GUN SAFES-MAYTAG WASH-
COON
ER/DRYER-UTILITY RAMPS-AIR COMPRESSOR-DRILL PRESS-WEIGHT RACK-METAL SHELVING-NEW ECHO CHAINSAW-LIKE NEW ECHO WEEDEATER-JACKS-ELECTRIC HEATERS-KEROSENE HEATERS-FENCE POST-LAWN TOOLS-LIVE PLANTSCROCK WATER JUG-CAST IRON SKILLETS-HOUSEHOLD GOODS & MORE
10% DOWN ON REAL ESTATE DAY OF AUCTION
RIDGE AUCTION
– 417-229-2819
PROPER ID REQUIRED FOR REGISTRATION • NOTHING REMOVED UNTIL SETTLED FOR • CASH / PRE-APPROVED CHECKS / ALSO DEBITR CREDIT W/5% FEE • NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ACCIDENTS • CONCESSION • RESTROOM • LOTS OF PARKING
AMERICAN LEGION
POST #220 would love to invite all of our former and current U.S. military friends to join us Monday mornings, 9 a.m., for coffee and pastries, with the exception of the second Monday of the month and national holidays. Come join us at M. Graham Clark Downtown Airport, 491 Blue Sky Lane, Hollister. Monthly business meeting is the 2nd Monday of the month 6 p.m. at Denny’s, 2335 West 76 County Blvd., Branson. We look forward to meeting you! HOOAH!
IF MY PEOPLE, WHICH ARE CALLED BY MY NAME, shall humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14
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.
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
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.
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.
HOME TO SELL OR ROOM TO RENT?
Let the Globe help you get the word out. Reach thousands of readers each week with an ad just like this for only $17.75!
HEART2HEART DOMESTIC SERVICES: Housecleaning, handyman, transportation errands/airport runs, light meal preparation and holiday or special occasion baking. Bebe, 602-6166885.
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NEED A
– We have German shepherd dogs that would be
FOR SALE: Deeded ownership at Wilderness Club, Ridgedale. 15,000 pts. Numerous benefits included. $28,000. 540849-5425
OUTDOOR WOOD BURNING STOVE18FT. FLATBED TRAILER-UTILITY TRAILER W/WOOD SIDES- JOHN DEERE HYDROSTATIC RIDING MOWER-JOHN DEERE 116RIDING MOWER-1950’S VINTAGE CAMPER-SHOP FOX DUST
COLLECTOR-LARGE LOT OF EXOTIC WOOD-WOOD LATHES-COMPOUND SAWS-GRIZZLY STROKE SANDER-DELTA COMMERCIAL TABLE
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WORKBENCH-GRINDERS-DRILLSVISE-WOOD CLAMPS-LARGE SET OF CUSTOM RUSTIC KITCHEN CABINETS
WEEKLY MOTEL ROOM RENTAL: Family friendly. Deposit and rule agreement required. Cable/WiFi included. No dogs. $191/week. Colonial Mountain Inn, Branson West 417-272-8414.
W/STAINGLASS-TROY BILT WEED TRIMMER-RUSTIC WINDOWS-COMMERCIAL DEWALT SAW W/20FT. RUN-SHOP FOX BELT/DISC SANDER-FIREWOOD-RAILROAD SKIDSWORK TABLES-LARGE CAST IRON BANDSAW-HUSQVARNA CHAINSAW-STIHL GAS CUTTER-WOOD PLANES-POWER TOOLS-LOTS OF SCRAP IRON & METAL-LIONEL TRAIN SET-QUILTS-5 GALLON
APARTMENT FOR RENT: 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.
RENTED! THE GLOBE DOES IT AGAIN!
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Furnished Units, Carports & Lakeviews Available CALL 417-546-3334
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HELP WANTED
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!
SCOTTY’S TROUT DOCK/ CAFE looking for help. Apply in person. 400 Boxcar Willie Dr., Branson. 417-334-4288.
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.
TWO PAINTERS NEEDED. Experienced, and must have your own
GLOBE! Your newspaper needs a sharp, motivated sales person to serve customers in Stone County. Straight commission/1099 position. Join our fabulous team today! Contact Rob at 417-334-9100 or 504-583-8907.
Across 1. Pursue furtively
6. Played for a sucker 10. Bruins’ letters
14. Drive in Beverly Hills
15. African antelope 16. Punxsutawney celeb 17. Non-studio film, for short
18. Completes a cupcake
19. Munro by another name
20. Part of a Boy Scout’s uniform
23. Hungarian goulash ingredient
27. Richard III’s request
28. Pleistocene Epoch
29. Part of a holiday phrase
31. A lot of pizzazz?
32. Pungent pepper
33. Museum curator’s deg., perhaps 36. Bill Griffith comic strip
40. Reply to a ques.
41. Demagnetize, as a tape
42. Kett of old comics
43. Recipe direction, perhaps 44. Lament
46. Most angry 49. Well-known sci-fi movie hero 50. New hire’s question
53. Geographic area 54. Big expense for truckers 55. At pique’s peak 60. Lake, city or canal 61. Egg on 62. Artificially created human, in Jewish folklore 63. Huff and puff 64. Forfeiture 65. Base negotiating amounts Down 1. ___ Lanka 2. Exporting unit, sometimes 3. Supplement 4. Muumuu accessory 5. “Star Trek” actor 6. It’s in central New York
7. “Pow!” 8. Fencer’s choice 9. Prime minister before Gladstone 10. Net result 11. Preside over 12. Has warm and fuzzy feelings toward 13. “___ Less Ordinary” (1997 film)
this date in history...
• 1870 U.S. Weather Bureau begins operations
• 1894 Vaccine for diphtheria announced 1931 Dupont introduces synthetic rubber 1950 Attempt to assassinate U.S. President Harry Truman at Blair House in Washington, D.C.: Attack thwarted by White House Police, including Officer Leslie Coffelt who was killed in the line of duty
• 1964 Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Len Dawson passes for 435 yards and 6 TDs in 49-39 win over Denver Broncos at Municipal Stadium 1968 Motion Picture Association of America introduces rating system (G, M, R, X)
• 1977 U.S. President Jimmy Carter raises the minimum wage from $2.30 to $3.35 an hour, effective
21. Duke’s monogram
22. Type of reaction 23. Italian pie 24. ___ the hole
25. Sounds from a brood 26. Blacksmith’s tool 29. “With friends like ___, who ...”
30. Mature 32. Friendly talk
33. Tagalong’s words 34. Deadly 35. Bell town of fiction
37. Matzoh’s lack
38. Honest 39. Turns a maxi into a mini, e.g.
43. Six-line poem 44. ___-relief sculpture 45. Naval rank above warrant officer
46. Win all games in a series 47. “Butterfield 8” author 48. Violinist’s aid 49. Moths’ calling cards?
51. Certain currency
52. Asks for alms 56. Lobster eggs, e.g. 57. Public house mainstay
58. WJM’s Baxter 59. Typesetting units
from 1st Jan 1981 1979 U.S. Federal Government proposes making a $1.5 billion loan to Chrysler • 1982 Honda becomes the first Asian automobile company to produce cars in the U.S. with the opening of their factory in Marysville, Ohio.
2012 Google’s Gmail becomes the world’s most popular email service
See more fun puzzles at: https://www.puzzles.ca/sudoku/
Last week’s Sudoku solution
