Songwriter’s powerful words remain a big part of Ozark Mountain Christmas
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Branson Globe readers are thankful and grateful
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, many people pause to reflect on the things they are thankful for. We asked our readers to share their thoughts during this special time of year.
Corinne said, “I’m pretty grateful for the dog we rescued from the Taney County Animal Shelter. Her name is Pearl, and she never fails to make me laugh!”
Nancy shared, “I am thankful for my home and the friends and family that God has blessed me with.”
Said Douglas, “My family and Jesus Christ,” while Gail stated, “I am thankful that God has not forsaken my family.”
Carrie shared, “I am most thankful for life, warmth, health, food, home, God, family and best friends.”
Valerie is thankful for “Our sweet twins that we get to share the holiday with.”
Said Phyllis, “I am thankful for my family to be in good health and being able to have food on our table to say thanks over together.”
Tracie noted, “I’m thankful for my family and friends and also my fur babies. I am also thankful that we are all healthy and free. I am very thankful for our veterans!”
“I am thankful, not just on Thanksgiving but every day of the year,” said AnnaLee “I try to make sure I thank God every day for food and shelter. He has also blessed me with my beautiful family. At the holidays we think back on our loved ones who are no longer with us, but we know that heaven is sweeter with them there. Every day that I live, I am blessed.”
Donna, a newlywed, shared, “I am so grateful t have a second chance to have a wonderful man in my life. To have two daughters is a bonus. God has been very good to me.”
Becky is thankful for “Friends and family that have been so wonderfully supportive and helpful during my hospital adventures and recovery from heart valve surgery this past year.”
SEE THANKFUL, PAGE 4A
A song written by a local songwriter several years ago remains an anthem for Branson’s Christmas season.
“The Ozark Mountain Christmas season had just been announced and Bud, my husband, being the Shepherd of the Hills marketing director, said, ‘We sure need an Ozark Mountain Christmas song for our Branson town.’ Branson was just coming into its ‘Music Show Capital of the World’ prominence. Well, I said, jokingly, ‘OK, I’ll just write one.’ I was kidding,” explained songwriter and vocalist Lynda Lynn. “We were on our way to Nashville to represent the Shepherd of the Hills for the American Bus Association Convention at Opryland. As we traveled along the way, I got to thinking more serious-
ly about it. We then stopped to have lunch and suddenly I grabbed a napkin and started writing: ‘A child was born to Mary—He was a special one. He came to save His people - Christ the newborn son.’ Wow! I think I may have something here!”
Lynn, an award-winning songwriter, continued, “As we traveled, the chorus was popping up in my head, as well. Then, here comes ‘Come share the love, Come share the joy.’ Then came, ‘Come be with us at Ozark Mountain Christmas.’
Lynda and Bud arrived in Nashville, where they stayed at Opryland Hotel.
While Bud spent his days in meetings, Lynda continued to work on her song, writing it down on Opryland Hotel stationery. In the eve-
Blue Angels visit Branson Airport; tickets available for Wings of Pride Air Show
BY GARY J. GROMAN, Independent Journalist
Two United States Navy Blue Angels Demo Team pilots, Pilot #7 Major Scott Laux and Pilot #8 Lt. Commander Lilly Montana, visited the Branson Airport
(BBG) on Friday, November 22, 2024. It was a preliminary visit before the Blue Angels performed at the airport on August 3031, 2025, as the featured performers in the Branson Wings of Pride Air Show.
During their visit, the Blue Angel pilots toured the airport, met with air show representatives and local public officials, and spoke with the media about their first-ever appearance in the
FESTIVAL OF TREES – Festival of Trees (in Suite 1205 at the Branson Landing), is open Sunday through Thursday from 12 to 6 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. through December 7. Pictured are Michele Dean, Executive Director of Christian Action Ministries
Sherry Herschend. (Photo by George Kurland)
From the left, Blue Angels Pilot #8 Lt. Commander Lilly Montana, Hollister Mayor Lamar Patton, Branson Mayor Larry Milton, and Blue Angels Pilot #7 Major Scott Laux on the ramp at Branson Airport (Photo by Gary J. Groman)
Daybreakers Rotary Club presents check to Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks
BY JANET STEINKAMP, Editor
On November 14 the Branson Daybreakers Rotary Club held an informative and inspirational meeting at the Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks, 1460 Bee Creek Road, Branson. During the meeting Mike Mulnik, current Daybreakers Rotary Club President, presented a check for $1,000 to Stoney Hays, Chief Executive Officer of Boys & Girls Club for use with their 2024 programs.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Ozarks provide vital afterschool and summer programs for school-aged youth in four clubs—Branson, Crane, Forsyth and Reeds Spring and serve approximately 2,500 kids between those four clubs.
According to Stoney Hays, every day between 400-500 kids come to the clubs after school, after being dropped off by school buses. Stoney is proud of the partnerships shared with local school districts and communities.
The Club’s afterschool program works on homework, life skills, mentoring kids, good citizenship
and making healthy decisions. Hays mentioned that the Club reinforces the importance of education.
Children are also given a hot meal each day—sometimes the only meal they will have until their next meal at school.
The Boys & Girls Club is the area’s only fulltime youth agency and is staffed by Youth Development Professionals. The student to Youth Development Professional ratio is 1 to 17. The Club is open every day after school (except holidays) and daily during the summer, giving kids a safe and fun place to go until they are picked up by their parents or guardians. Club membership is open to all kids ages 5-18. Membership dues are only $30 per year for the afterschool program, and $30 per week for the all-day summer program. No one is ever turned away because of financial reasons.
Josiah, a Club member as a child and now a drug awareness counselor/instructor, had this message: “Be to this next generation what you needed.”
SEE BOYS & GIRLS CLUB, PAGE 6A
Turkey Trot tradition continues this Thursday
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
An early-morning Thanksgiving tradition continues in Branson Turkey Trot 2024 is set for Thanksgiving morning. The 13th annual 5K run/walk takes place at
the Branson Landing. The family-friendly event is a great way to kick off your Thanksgiving Day, as you make your way through the scenic—and flat—racing course.
Presented by the Ozarks
Running Club, Turkey Trot is fun for all ages. Registration and packet pick-up begin at 6:30 with the race beginning at 8 a.m., on Thursday, November 28.
Attendees and spectators are asked to bring nonper-
ishable food items, baby care items, hygiene items or monetary donations, to be given to Christian Action Ministries. For more information, contact Devra at DLeach@ higginbotham.net.
Branson Globe Toy and Food Drive underway
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
The Branson Globe is once again holding a Holiday Toy and Food Drive to help our neighbors in need. The Branson Globe is teaming up with some of our area friends to collect new toys and nonperishable food items to be distributed through area help agencies, now through December 23.
Food items collected are divided between Christian Action Ministries and area Blessings Boxes, providing needed grocery items for those in our community.
Toys that are received prior to December 16 will be donated to the Salvation Army for use in their Toy Distribution, providing gifts for children in our area
ages 0 to 16. Toys received December 16 and after are used to help provide last minute gifts for children who would otherwise receive no gifts on Christmas morning.
Donations may be dropped off at The Flagstore (114 South Commercial Street in downtown Branson), Motel 6 (1023
West Main Street), The World’s Largest Toy Museum Complex (3609 West 76 Country Boulevard) or the Branson Globe Office (2460 South Business Highway 65, Suite 106 in Hollister). Thank you for helping us make the holidays brighter for our neighbors this season!
Thanksgiving dinners will serve up food and fellowship
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Two area organizations are helping to provide those in our area with a meal and companionship on Thanksgiving Day.
Elevate Branson is once again offering a Thanksgiving Day meal to the community.
An annual tradition, the dinner will be held on Thursday, November 28, 11:30 to 1:30, at the Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Parish Center, 202 Vaughn Road in Branson.
Rides are available. To reserve a ride, call 417335-9915 on Wednesday,
November 27, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Residents in Stone County are invited to a free community Thanksgiving dinner on November 28.
The dinner, in a new location this year, will be served at the Reeds Spring High School, 20281 State Highway 413 in Reeds Spring.
The public is invited to attend this dinner, served between 12 noon and 2 p.m. Both gatherings offer not only a delicious Thanksgiving meal but also fellowship with others on that special day.
Support Small Business Saturday, November 30
Bransoncvb.com
Small Business Saturday is November 30. By encouraging Americans to support small businesses, the day infuses money into local economies, promotes vibrant and diverse communities, and
celebrates the important role of small businesses in the national economy. If you are looking for Christmas presents for loved ones, consider visiting local businesses for more unique and heartfelt gifts.
Nestled in the picturesque
Ozark Mountains, Branson, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a magical and memorable Christmas shopping experience. Whether you’re a local looking for unique gifts or a visitor seeking that special something to bring back home, shopping in Branson for Christmas gifts offers a delightful blend of traditional charm and modern convenience.
Golf tournament raises $12,000 to help fight cancer
Submitted to Branson Globe
On October 19, the First Annual Golf tournament benefiting the American Cancer Society (ACS) Relay for Life (RFL) of Branson was held at Holiday Hills Golf Club. The event was a collaboration between the RFL of Branson, Holiday Inn Club Vacations and Holiday Hills Golf Club.
The tournament had several individual hole challenges, including playing against a ranked six-year-old, trying to
get the ball within a chalk circle, teeing off using a child’s driver, using a dice to determine your hole score, and playing against a pro LPGA golfer. The fun was followed with an excellent lunch and a large silent auction. Thanks to all of the area business and Individuals who donated items for the auction, and to Riki Lynn Real Estate who hosted a Hole in One for $10,000. Sad to say, no one won but someone did come extremely close!
Relay for Life planning committee, Lisa Wilfong and Terri Williams also thank all of the sponsors who helped make this initial event such a success, raising over $12,000 to benefit the ACS. This success was possible with the help of the incredible staff at Holiday Inn Club Vacations and Holiday Hills Golf Club, as well as volunteers with Relay for Life. They deserve a big THANK YOU for all their hard work.
Additional sponsors included Four Rivers Financial, Skaggs Foundation, Rundell Photography and Graphic Design, Sign Gypsies Table Rock Lake, Grade A Roofing, North American Property Mainte-
nance, Steve Faria, Shepherd of the Hills, Brad Allen, Cross Creek, Edward Jones- Rob Jones, Tri-Lakes Motors, Ryan’s Lawn and Tree Care, Holiday Hills Leadership, Reliable RV, Andy’s Plumbing, Compassus Hospice and Coffee Creations. Please mark your calendar now to Save the Date for the Second Annual Relay for Life Charity Golf Tournament, scheduled for October 18, 2025. There will be golf in the morning, and then a Relay for Life event in the evening. Those interested in getting involved for the 2025 event, please contact Lisa Wilfong at Lfong52@ hotmail.com.
Rotary President Mike Mulnick presents a check to Stoney Hays, CEO of Boys & Girls Club. (Photo by Janet Steinkamp)
Nursing facility seeks donations for residents during the holiday season
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A local business is seeking help during the holiday season. The staff and administration of Point Lookout Nurs-
‘Tis
ing Home are asking for help to make Christmas brighter for their residents. The nursing facility is home to more than 100 residents. While some of those residents have
families nearby to spend the holidays with, many do not.
In order to make the holidays merry for those residents, the nursing home staff is seeking donations of gifts
to present to the residents during the holiday season. Needed items for residents include sweatshirts and sweatpants (size XS to 4XL), non-skid socks, fuzzy
socks, toiletries, various snacks, individual Jell-O and pudding cups, fingernail polish, lap blankets, slip-on house shoes, robes, sodas, jackets and shoes.
Donations may be taken to Point Lookout Nursing and Rehab, located at 11103 Historic Highway 165, or dropped off at the Hollister Police Department.
the season: Despite some changes, shoppers still search for Black Friday deals
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Traditionally the beginning of the holiday shopping season, Black Friday was known for pre-dawn shopping, long lines and fights over products. In recent years, Black Friday has changed significantly.
The one day of Door Buster deals on Black Fri-
day has become more of a Black November, with sales starting earlier in the month, and more and more people shopping online. However, many still enjoy the mad rush of Black Friday shopping, and area shopping venues are happy to oblige those shoppers who are rooted in tradition.
The Branson Landing is holding a Black Friday Blowout, complete with raffles, a toy drive and tons of great deals. Opening early and staying open late, the Branson Landing’s Black Friday hours will be 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. for those searching for bargains. Home to over 100 shops, you are sure
to find something for everyone on your shopping list.
Tanger Outlet, with a variety of brand-name and designer outlet stores, offers early sales, deep discounts and extended hours on Black Friday. Tanger Outlets of Branson will be open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. this Friday for your convenience. Walmart, known for Door
Buster sales, will open at 6 a.m. on Friday, as will Target and Best Buy. All three are favorites among holiday shoppers.
For the handyman or doit-yourselfer on your list, be sure to visit Lowe’s, Home Depot and Menard’s. All have a list of Black Friday specials to choose from. As you do your holiday shopping, whether on Black Friday, or later in the season, remember the area craft malls, small businesses, and locally owned shops. These specialty stores just might have that perfect gift you’re searching for, and they will definitely appreciate your business.
Community’s help needed as warming center opens for the season
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
As cooler weather arrives in the Ozarks, the extended forecast promises many cold nights in the near future—making it even more difficult for those without proper housing.
Branson’s House of Hope wants to help those in need on the cold winter nights.
House of Hope provides a warm place to sleep on nights when temperatures dip below freezing. Additionally, House of Hope guests enjoy a warm evening meal, snacks and breakfast before leaving the following morning. Guests have access to a shower and are able to do their laun-
dry while visiting House of Hope, as well. House of Hope also offers guests an opportunity to relax and have fellowship in a place of warmth and safety.
House of Hope is seeking the community’s help as the warming center opens up for the season.
“We would love, if you
wouldn’t mind, to pick up some drinks and/or snacks to help keep the shelves stocked,” said a House of Hope representative. “We sure do appreciate the Branson community and are looking forward to serving those in need.”
Donations can be dropped off at the House of Hope of-
Concerned Women for America call for prayer, action
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
The local Prayer/Action Chapter of Concerned Women for America (Missouri) met for their regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, November 19. Following opening prayer, discussion centered on next steps following the national and local elections. CWA hopes to see a restoration of integrity to issues such as women’s sports under the new Trump administration.
Area Director Haven Howard described a new leadership role, CWA Influencer, in which women commit to reach others in their particular sphere of influence, something many women are already doing, but now officially recognized and resourced. The local Chapter also recently received mention in the national CWA newsletter for their letter-writing project prior to the election; members wrote personally to Christians who were registered but did not vote in the
2020 election, urging them to vote on November 5.
Moving forward after the election, a key question for Missouri CWA is how to address Missouri’s Amendment 3. A primary concern is that only eight of Missouri’s 115 counties carried the “yes” vote, leading to renewed calls for Initiative Petition reform to prevent three main cities from forcing legislation on most of the state’s counties and legislative districts. Several steps were discussed, including plans by conservative legislators to introduce a personhood bill granting human rights starting at conception.
Abortion providers are currently pursuing legal steps to implement amendment provisions such as expanding abortion access via tele-medicine and provider immunity from liability for injury, among others. For a realistic view of possible ramifications, several present recommended reading “Holding Someday,” by Mike Williams, who spoke
at the recent Options Pregnancy Clinic banquet.
To prepare for the upcoming Missouri legislative session, information was presented about the Encourage A Legislator program. Participants are provided note cards to mail a personal message weekly from January through May, with no specific political agenda but simply to let legislators in Jefferson City know someone is praying for them. Email jcbluebirdy@gmail.com to get involved.
Following a prayer time, attendees watched a video highlighting national CWA Director Penny Nance and the ways she has helped call women to leadership and to God’s purposes for them. Some of the video highlights included a conversation with Missouri Representative Vicky
Hartzler, who reminded listeners that being visible in the public square is a way to contend for faith as a foundation for the public good. Another of Nance’s guests in the video, Annabelle Rutledge Young Women for America, encouraged being well-prepared and informed in order to be an effective influence, pointing out that with social media, “Influence is at an all-time high, but the prerequisites for being an influencer are at an all-time low.”
The Taney County Prayer/Action Chapter meets the third Tuesday monthly at 10 a.m. at Covenant Life Church, 120 N. 3rd St. in downtown Branson. Women who want to help make a difference in their communities and our state are encouraged to attend.
www.turtlecreekbranson.com
fice or next door at Riley’s Treasures, 215 Veterans Boulevard, in downtown Branson.
In addition to the warming center, House of Hope operates an advocacy center, helping to meet the more long-term needs of those in our community, by connecting clients with resources they need to take the next steps towards positive life changes.
The representative continued, “This is sometimes our first opportunity to make a difference in their life, and help them get to a much better place. Thank you for allowing us to continue to do this year after year.”
info@turtlecreekbranson.com
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
Mellodie is “Thankful for healing of illnesses and better health for my family. So thankful, also, for my job.”
“I am so thankful for Jesus,” said Olive. He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.”
Heather shared, “I am so thankful for many things— my family, friends, workplace, co-workers, manager, cozy house, vehicle, school, church family and living in the most wonderful community. Being able to raise my daughter here is such a privilege. The good Lord has blessed me so much and I am very thankful and grateful.”
Jessie is “Thankful for my Savior,” while Tiffany is thankful for “my sobriety and a second chance to be a daughter, sister, auntie, girlfriend and, most of all, a mother.”
Said Carolyn, “I am thankful that Jesus loves me and that I’ve been able to have an operation last year on my shoulder and two weeks ago I had another one to replace a bad heart valve. Looking forward to getting my strength back and feeling normal again.”
Kevin shared, “I’m grateful to have an awesome wife and kid. I’m off the streets,
drug free (been three years), and I’m grateful to be breathing.”
Jodi said, “I’m grateful for my husband and family. I’m also grateful for my recovery, which made me a better person and Meme.”
R.B. shared, “I’m forever grateful to the God-loving folks who voted a leader - not a liar nor politician - into the presidency to repair three generations of immoral behavior.
Thank you, Jesus Christ, our creator and savior.”
“Thank you, Lord, for everything you do for me, my family, my friends and everyone that is here on earth” is Annette’s prayer. “I am grateful to have a second chance in life. I am also grateful that I am 100% healthy at my age. I am grateful for being able to give back to the community.”
Doug added, “I am most thankful for the friends and people I’ve met through the years on my journey. I’m very thankful for all the opportunities I’ve had in life. And, I’m most thankful to God for another year!”
Debbie summed up what many were thinking this season, noting, “It’s been a tough year. I am thankful for my family and that we have survived!”
Reader’s Corner: Book signings with area authors
ing material, including great gift ideas! On Saturday, November 23, Fig Tree Books & More, a Christian bookstore located at 2800 W. 76 Country Blvd. in the Grand Village, hosted two local authors on hand to sign their Christmas-themed books.
Mark Haslett, “Ozark Mark,” is the author of “Letters from St. Nicholas,” which he describes as a blend of true-life experiences and creative fiction. This story follows a pastor named Nicholas as his life spirals out of control. He finally realizes his need to surren-
der completely to God, and gets a job as a church janitor where he meets an angel sent from God with an invitation to join the St. Nicholas Society, a group doing anonymous good deeds. As one reviewer put it, Ozark Mark flips the traditional Santa theme to focus on the real reason for Christmas.
Joining Ozark Mark on Saturday was Dawn Trueblood, local author of “Bethlehem Star.” In this children’s story, a star is full of hopes and dreams about where he would like to shine, but finds himself
in a quiet place he would never have thought of. This unusual take on the story of the Christmas star reminds children that God’s plans for us can be even better than what we could ever dream for ourselves.
Both of these books, with reviews and additional information, can be found at major online retailers.
Ozark Mark also invites readers to a book signing on Saturday, December 14, at The Copper Coin, 106 S. Commercial St. in downtown Branson. He will be joined at this event by Su-
san Abar, original owner and founder of The Copper Coin, who has written her story of the healing miracle she received during a cancer diagnosis and treatment in 2003. She now shares, through her writing and with live audiences, about God’s faithfulness and the lessons she learned through two pennies, a rainbow and a woman named Mercy. Mark your calendar for this opportunity to be encouraged in your faith and perhaps find a wonderful gift idea for someone else who needs encouragement.
Branson Globe staff expresses thankfulness
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Like our readers, the staff of the Branson Globe has much to be thankful for this holiday season. Many members of the Branson Globe team shared their thoughts.
Gary Groman, Independent Journalist, is thankful for “Hope and what it can mean to the rest of our tomorrows.”
Said staff writer Cindy Thomas, “I’m thankful for my family, especially my husband, kids and grandkids, but also wonderful extended family. And, so thankful for God’s grace and the free gift of salvation through Jesus.”
Staff writer KD Michaels said, “I am thankful for the many opportunities I’ve been afforded and the many people I’ve met in Branson and beyond over the years. I am thankful for the community in which we live and work. I am thankful to be a part of the Branson Globe staff, with a
paper that not only informs and entertains, but touches the lives of others. “
Freelance writer Rose Buckles noted, “I’m thankful for America and all the freedoms we are blessed with. I’m thankful for family, friends and my church to enjoy. I’m thankful for the opportunities that enrich my life, like writing and being involved with our community with groups and organizations that are patriotic, like Moms for America and Concerned Women of America. The past three years I’ve been thankful for the joy of singing to thousands of tourists at a local restaurant and Senior Centers. I’m thankful for new friendships and writing articles for the Branson Globe. Praying 2025 is a great year for America and our 47th President Donald J. Trump and his new leadership team.”
Said the Globe’s John Fullerton, area historian, “I’m thankful for the
awesome family I’ve been blessed with—my wife Luanna, and kids and grandkids. I’m thankful for all of you fine folks, the readers of the Globe. My prayer is that ya’ll are blessed with a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Treasure your family time and make memories.”
Entertainment writer Luanna Fullerton shared, “I am blessed and happy to be a child of our Lord. I am also very thankful for my husband John Fullerton, our kids and grandkids, our family and friends. Also for the opportunities in our lives to touch many people through our paper, the Branson Globe.”
“This year, we’re counting 19 blessings...our grandchildren,” said Production Manager, Karen Halfpop “Jacob, Jashanna, Cody, Kyle, Kevin, Cole, Aubrey, Alyssa, Anna, Alex, Tyson, Whitney, Kaitlynn, Levi, Ryker, Parker, Olive, Matthew, and now Evelyn, born on Monday!”
Janet Steinkamp, editor of the Branson Globe noted, “In addition to being thankful for my family, health and faith, this Thanksgiving I am thankful for my son and his family who are now living in the Midwest after he served 20 years in the Marine Corps that included three overseas deployments and being stationed on the East and West coasts. I am thankful for the nice and dedicated Branson Globe team that goes above and beyond each week to help provide a valuable service to our readers and advertisers.
Branson Globe Publisher Rob Doherty shared, “I’m thankful for both my family and my Branson Globe family. I’m blessed to still have my parents, and equally blessed to work with the best of the best in this industry.”
The staff of the Branson Globe wish each of you a very Happy Thanksgiving! We are thankful for YOU!
Fig Tree Books & More: “Ozark Mark” and Dawn Trueblood are shown with their books. (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas)
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Life Christian Center presents their annual drive-through Nativity.
Experience the true meaning of Christmas with this spectacular holiday experience, open to
all. The Greatest Gift Nativity will once again be offered, free of charge. Complimentary cookies
and hot chocolate will also be provided, The Nativity, a drivethrough event, will be
presented on the evenings of December 5, 6 and 7, from 6:30 to 8:30 each night.
‘Jesus, the Christmas Experience:’ Local church presents production on life of Christ
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
King’s Chapel presents “Jesus, the Christmas Experience.”
The Branson-based ministry shares this Broad-
way-style musical that tells the story of Jesus’ birth and life.
This is an entertaining and inspiring production, featuring a cast of 30 sing-
ers, dancers and actors, that is guaranteed to entertain all ages.
“Jesus, the Christmas Experience” can be seen Friday and Saturday, De-
cember 6 and 7, and the following weekend, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, December 13 through 15. Friday and Sunday performances begin at 7 p.m.,
while the Saturday production begins at 3 p.m. Tickets are just $15 per person, and can be purchased through Music City Centre or online at www.
Don’t miss your chance to see Randy Plummer’s production of
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Branson entertainer and author Randy Plummer will once again invite the public to view his popular production of “Snowdeer
Christmas Story.”
“Snowdeer Christmas Story” is an original play, written by Randy Plummer, based on his book by the same name. This year
marks the 13th year of Snowdeer being presented in Branson.
“Snowdeer Christmas Story” will again be at the Playhouse Theatre at the
Shepherd of the Hills,” said Plummer. “Tickets will be sold at the Playhouse Theatre an hour before the show on the day of the show.”
musiccitycentre.com. King’s Chapel Branson is located at the Music City Centre facility, 1839 West 76 Country Boulevard in Branson.
‘Snowdeer Christmas Story’
Shows are Saturday, December 7, at 12 noon; and Sunday, December 8, at 8 p.m.
Tickets are $15 for adults 16 and up, and $7 for chil-
Unique lighting display – with a great purpose –
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
One of the most spectacular displays of Christmas Spirit can be found on Sherry Lane in Branson.
The Bennett Christmas Lights are well-known throughout the area, as Kathy Bennett and her husband put on a lighting display that is second-tonone. The selfless couple sets up the amazing display not only for the enjoyment of the community, free of charge, but they do accept donations for an area nonprofit.
“If giving is in your heart, we do accept donations and items for the Branson Humane Society,” explained Kathy. “All monetary donations will go directly to the Humane Society. There is a collection box at the end of the driveway. Your donations are appreciated, but not required to enjoy the lights.”
Bennett continued, “They are always in need of dog and cat food, puppy food (wet and dry), kitten food (wet and dry), pellet cat litter, bleach, pill pockets, beds, etc. Special needs, at the moment are kitten milk and 100% canned pumpkin.”
dren
begins this weekend
The Bennett Christmas Light Display begins this weekend. Lights can be viewed November 29 through December 31. The display, set to music, can be seen from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, at 321
Sherry Lane in Branson, off of Historic Highway 165. Said Kathy, “Our light show will leave you with a smile on your face and joy in your hearts. All lights are programmed and synchronized to music. Be sure to tune your car radio to 96.3 so you can hear the music.”
Table Rock Art Guild and Gallery announce holiday events
Submitted to Branson Globe
Table Rock Art Guild and Table Rock Art Gallery invite the community to celebrate the season, find some unique gift ideas, and experience the creativity of area artists at several upcoming holiday events.
Saturday, November 30, is designated as “Small Business Saturday,” with shoppers encouraged to shop local/shop small businesses. Artists will fill the hallway in front of the Gallery, located in Claybough Plaza Mall at 11016 St. Hwy. 76 in Branson West, with new artwork suitable for gifting or for decorating your home or office. Inside the Gallery, there will be even more art from over 30 artists, featuring wall décor, Christmas ornaments, greeting cards and jewelry. With prices starting at just $4, you’re sure to find just the right special items for holiday gift-giving! The Gallery is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• BOYS & GIRLS CLUB
Continued from page 2A
On Saturday, December 7, join Gallery artists for the annual Holiday Bake Sale benefiting the Table Rock Art Guild. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., artists will bring some of their favorite cookies, brownies, pies and cakes to sell along-
In the midst of an opioid epidemic, opioid awareness and prevention are significant areas of importance
side their artwork. There will also be additional artwork on display in the hallway in front of the Gallery.
Christmas Art Walks will also be held on Saturdays, December 14 and 21, for those last-minute gifts or just a break from holiday busy-ness. From wall art to wearable art, the Gallery offers something for everyone! Artists will also have additional pieces on display in front of the Gallery. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For questions or to inquire about a specific artist, call 417-272-1150.
Area artists are invited to discover the creative com-
the Boys & Girls Club addresses. As Hays explained, prevention is discussed with
munity of the Table Rock Art Guild, established in 1980. The Guild’s dedicated mission has been to actively advance the arts by providing a platform for local artists (all residing within a 75mile radius) to display their exceptional talents, bringing together individuals with a love for the arts, and culminating in the highly anticipated annual Festival of Arts.
Members and their guests anticipate and enjoy the monthly meetings, featuring an art-related program, usually presented by one of the many talented members. There is also a themed Artist of the Month challenge,
each a fresh and exciting opportunity for artistic exploration, along with occasional field trips and workshops. Meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month at St Andrew Presbyterian Church, 30 James River Road, Kimberling City, Missouri; artists gather at 11:30 am to socialize, and meetings start at noon.
The Gallery, located in Branson West, is an integral part of the Guild, as it showcases the artwork of around 30 Guild members, with media including acrylic, oil and watercolor painting; sketching and pen and ink; photography and digital art;
pottery; stained glass; and jewelry. Discover an eclectic collection of pieces suitable for adorning your home or yourself, as well as gifting! Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday; you can also meet some of these talented artists on the First Saturday Artist Meet & Greet each month. For more information about Table Rock Art Guild and Gallery, call 417-2721150 or visit the website, www.tablerockartgallery. com. Stay up to date on special events by following @ TableRockArt on Facebook and Instagram.
kids “as young as they will understand” because young children may be impacted by parents, older siblings, or incarcerated parents. Hays
said opioids come in “many fashions” and children learn about the dangers of opioid addiction and the importance of never sharing pre-
scriptions with anyone. After the Rotary meeting, Roxanne Amundsen, Boys & Girls Club Resource Development Coordinator, discussed the Club’s purpose and life changing importance to children and families, and she gave Rotary Club members a tour of the facilities. For more information about the Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks, visit their website: https://www. bgcozarks.org/
ages three to 15. Children two and under are free. Mark your calendars and don’t miss this special production, written and set in the Ozarks.
Honor a veterans: Quilts of Valor announces sponsorship program
Submitted to Branson Globe Quilts of Valor of the Ozarks (QOVO) announces the launching of their Sponsorship Program for businesses and individuals who would like to assist in honoring local veterans with a Quilt of Valor. This program allows a donation to be made to cover the expenses of from one to five veteran quilts.
A Quilt of Valor is a
quality quilt, made by hand and then hand- or machine-quilted, awarded to a service member or veteran who has been touched by war. The quilts are considered an award, not a gift, and must be recorded with the Quilts of Valor Foundation. The quilt says unequivocally, “Thank you for your service and sacrifice in serving our nation.”
Materials for these quilts
and use of long-arm quilting machines are dependent on donations. At current costs for material and labor, the average cost of a quilt is $300. Quilts of Valor Foundation is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization, which makes donations tax deductible.
Following are the Donor Level options to support this program and the number of quilts the donation
will provide:
• Platinum (5) - $1,500
Diamond (4) - $1,200
Gold (3) - $900
• Silver (2) - $600
Bronze (1) – $300
Donations can be mailed to Quilts of Valor of the Ozarks, P.O. Box 334, Kimberling City, MO 65686. All donations are appreciated, regardless of amount, and will help QOVO continue honoring veterans in
southwest Missouri.
QOVO received their charter on March 1, 2024, and in six months’ time have awarded over one hundred Quilts of Valor to local veterans. The chapter meets at 9 a.m. the first Monday of each month, at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Kimberling City. All men and women interested in honoring veterans are
welcome; there are many ways to assist, such as sewing, pressing, fund raising, assisting in presentations and more. Following the sewing/quilting session, a business meeting is held at 1 p.m.
See current activities by checking out the Facebook page, Quilts of Valor of the Ozarks, or email quiltsofvalorozarks@gmail. com for more information.
Branson/Springfield Roof Co. continues tradition of giving with annual giveaway
Submitted to Branson Globe
Branson/Springfield Roof
Co is proud to announce the return of its annual free roof giveaway for a deserving veteran in the Ozarks.
This year, the company is honored to partner with The Warrior’s Journey to recognize and support those who have served our country.
From now until the end of
February 2025, nominations will be accepted for veterans in the Branson/Springfield area. As part of the nomination process, every nominee will receive a complimentary roof inspection and detailed photo report upon request. The recipient of the free roof will be selected in March 2025, with the new roof installation taking
place shortly thereafter.
This initiative continues Branson/Springfield Roof Co’s legacy of giving back. Past recipients have included a first responder, a veteran, and a teacher.
Nominate a deserving veteran today for their chance to receive a free roof by visiting bransonspringfieldroof. com. To learn more about
The Warrior’s Journey and its work supporting veterans, visit twj.org.
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,
About The Warrior’s Journey
The Warrior’s Journey is a faith-based nonprofit organization providing resources and support to military service members, veterans and their families as they navigate life’s challenges. Learn more at TWJ.org.
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.
Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals: Miracle Week is December 2 – 8
Submitted to Branson Globe
Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals at CoxHealth make a difference for local kids and families every single day of the year. During the first week of December, it is a special time to make an impact through Miracle Week: an opportunity for individuals to donate funds that provide medical care and assistance when they’re needed most.
“Miracle Week is special for us every year because it provides a wonderful opportunity to share stories from local patients who were
directly impacted by the generosity of donors,” says Tim Siebert, executive director of CMN Hospitals at CoxHealth. “The donations made during Miracle Week support children and families at all stages of their care journey. We want to do all we can to help ease these and other health related burdens so local children can thrive.”
This year, Miracle Week runs December 2 - 8. Donations support many efforts including: Special Needs Fund, which offers direct financial assistance for special
medical needs that are not covered by private insurance or Medicaid. This includes prosthetics, wheelchairs, leg braces, hearing aids, prescriptions, travel expenses for out-of-town doctor’s appointments and other needs.
Family Care Grants, which provide financial assistance for families whose children have been hospitalized or need specialized therapy.
• Educational programs including Wasted, an anti-drinking and driving campaign; Never Shake
a Baby, to prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome; and CARDIAC Kids, a program that identifies area children at risk for developing heart disease or diabetes and teaches them how to live a healthy life. Other educational programs focus on car seat, water, bicycle, firearm, home, farm and baby safety.
• The C.A.R.E. Mobile program, which provides two mobile health units that increase access to health screenings and immunizations for children who might otherwise be
unable to get appropriate care.
CoxHealth’s Child Life program, a four-person team dedicated to helping create a sense of normalcy for kids who are hospitalized, thereby aiding the healing process.
School-based virtual visits, which allows local kids to receive health care at school and get back to class more quickly.
In addition to monetary donations, CMN Hospitals at CoxHealth also accepts stocks and bonds, real estate, personal property, life
insurance policies, certificates of deposit, retirement funds, as well as bequests from estates. All donations help local children, giving a great benefit to families across the region.
“CoxHealth funds the operating costs of our local CMN Hospitals office, so 100 percent of gifts and proceeds benefit children right here in the Ozarks,” says Siebert.
For more information or to make a donation, call 417-268-3222 (24/7 through Dec. 8) or go online to www.coxhealthcmn.com.
Kyle Brown joins CoxHealth as vice president of marketing and communications
Submitted to Branson Globe
CoxHealth is pleased to welcome Kyle Brown to its leadership team as vice president of Marketing and Communications.
Brown, who started the role on Nov. 8, will oversee the health care system’s marketing and corporate communications efforts.
“We are glad to welcome Kyle to our leadership team at CoxHealth and to the Ozarks,” says Max Buetow,
president and CEO of CoxHealth. “We have incredible Marketing and Corporate Communications departments, and Kyle’s experience will only make them stronger.”
It’s an opportunity that Brown is looking forward to as well.
“I am excited to join an organization that is laser focused on improving the
health of the communities and patients it serves,” Brown says. “I look forward to advancing our marketing and communications efforts to further support CoxHealth’s mission, vision and values.”
With more than two decades of experience, Brown has a track record of enhancing company reputations, driving revenue and fostering innovation. He brings expertise in global business strategy, reputation management, strategic storytelling, digital and brand transformation, customer and employee engagement, and community-building strategies.
His career includes leadership roles at notable companies like Merck, PerkinElmer, Cue Health and Dell Technologies.
He holds multiple advanced qualifications, including undergraduate and master’s degrees from Boston University and executive programs at MIT. He is also an active speaker and panel moderator, sharing insights on digital health, AI, and customer experience.
“I’m looking forward to getting more plugged into the Springfield community and experiencing all of what this region has to offer,” says Brown.
Brown will overlap for a few months with CoxHealth’s previous vice president of Marketing and Communications, Jann Holland, who has graciously agreed to assist with the transition and support Brown’s onboarding as she plans for retirement in spring 2025.
Brown was also an active volunteer in the Boston community, serving multiple organizations including Project Bread, Community Harvest Project, The Greater Boston Food Bank and Boston Area Gleaners, Inc.
Holiday cooking safety
Submitted to Branson Globe Thanksgiving and the day before are the top two days in this country for the
chance of a cooking fire to happen in someone’s home. Cooking causes 44% of all home fires in the United States. The American Red Cross offers safety steps everyone can follow if they will be preparing their family’s Thanksgiving feast. Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food.
• Use a timer to remind yourself that the stove or oven is on.
• Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
• Keep kids and pets at least three feet away from cooking areas. Keep anything that can catch on fire away from your stove top and oven or any other appliance that generates heat.
Brown (Photo submitted)
Branson Bank hosts ribbon cutting and grand opening at fifth location
Submitted to Branson Globe
On Thursday, November 21, 2024, Branson Bank held a ribbon cutting to officially dedicate the bank’s fifth full-service community bank location in Branson West. At 3 p.m., bank associates gathered with guests and representatives of the Table Rock Lake Chamber of Commerce to cut the “grand opening” ribbon in front of the newly built facility. Eric Simkins, Vice President and Commercial Lender of Branson Bank welcomed guests and expressed thanks to those who made the project possible.
“We are thankful for the
investment from our Board of Directors and Senior Management in our Stone County community. The project lasted about two years from the land purchase to completion. The team at Federal Construction were wonderful partners and allowed us to use over 50% local subcontractors so that those dollars stayed in Stone County,” said Eric Simkins. “We also would like to share our thanks to Larry Maloney who helped pave the way when he first opened our Lending Center back in 2018. Without Larry, this may have never come to fruition.”
Simkins introduced Bill
Jones, CEO, Branson Bank. Jones, too, had many thanks to the community and our partners who helped make this event possible.
“We are honored and blessed to be opening the bank’s fifth full-service banking facility here in Branson West and Stone County. We believe that our business model will serve this region well as we seek to invest in and grow this area,” said Jones. “Approximately 94% of every deposit dollar at Branson Bank is reinvested in the local community in the form of high-quality loans. Loans that help build new homes or fund new businesses are
examples of how a community bank helps grow and expand the local economy.”
After the ribbon cutting festivities, Eric Simkins invited guests into the bank for refreshments, giveaways, and “free” samples in the form of $2 dollar bills to celebrate the community bank’s grand opening.
Branson Bank invites the community to stop by and visit the Branson West team. Our professionals are excited to help with your financial needs and welcome the opportunity to build a relationship with you. Branson Bank in Branson West is located at 17035 St. Hwy 13 across from Oak-
ley’s Auto World. For more information, please call 417-334-9696 or visit online at www.bransonbank. com. Branson Bank is a $372 million asset communi-
Flu, RSV, pertussis: Stay protected this respiratory illness season
BY MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND SENIOR SERVICES
Respiratory illness season has begun, and state and local health officials encourage everyone to protect themselves and their loved ones from respiratory viruses and diseases circulating this winter, including influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), COVID-19 and pertussis (whooping cough). Vaccination remains a key tool to prevent illness, reduce severe symptoms and protect Missouri communities.
Influenza (Flu)
The flu vaccine can lower the risk of serious flu complications and hospitalizations. This year’s flu shot targets the strains predicted to circulate most widely. Since the flu season typically peaks in winter months, it’s still beneficial to get vaccinated to reduce the risk of infection and transmission. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone age six months and older receive the updated 20242025 influenza vaccine.
Respiratory Syncytial
Vaccination, along with everyday preventive measures, offers strong protection against these viruses and diseases.
• BLUE ANGELS
Continued from page 1A
Hollister/Branson area as part of the Branson Wings of Pride Air Show.
When asked what the Blue Angels’ performance would include, Blue Angels
Pilot U.S. Marine Corps
Major Scott Laux said it would showcase military precision on the ground and then in the air. “Expect our
normal show, Fat Albert, C-130 Super Hercules flight demonstration for about 10 minutes. And then six F-18 Super Hornets that launch for about 45 minutes.”
Besides the Blue Angels, the website for the show, https://bransonwingsofpride.com/, says that “A full lineup of military and civilian aircraft will be performing…” and that “A full lineup of military and civilian
Virus (RSV)
RSV, a common virus that can cause severe respiratory infections in infants and older adults, is also preventable. RSV vaccines are now available both for older adults and for pregnant women to protect newborns. Immunizations are also available for infants at high risk.
RSV most often spreads between October through March. The following groups should get immunized:
Adults aged 75 and older.
• Adults aged 60-74 at increased risk.
• Pregnant women who are
aircraft will be on display at the Branson Wings of Pride Air Show. Fans will have the chance to get up close to these amazing planes and even meet some of the pilots and crews that fly them. Our initial Ground Displays lineup will be announced in the months leading up to the show.”
Consistent with that statement, as of 12:51 p.m. on November 25, 2024,
32-36 weeks pregnant from September through January.
• Babies younger than eight months – as early as possible, especially as newborn.
• Children ages eight-19 months who are at high risk for severe RSV. Pharmacists cannot provide RSV vaccines without a health care provider’s prescription. Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Though not a virus, pertussis, or whooping cough, is a contagious respiratory disease caused by bacteria that can be especially dangerous for young children.
the only entries for “Performers” and “Ground Performers” on the website are “Coming in 2025” for “Ground Displays” and “More Performers Will Be Announced Soon” for “Performers.”
A spokesperson for the show said that exclusive advance access to purchase tickets for the show would be available online at www. BransonWingsofPride.com to the members of their Air Show Insights Club beginning Saturday, November 23, at 8 a.m. and to the public beginning at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, November 26 at www.BransonWingsofPride.com.
A separate ticket and parking pass are necessary for each of the two days of the Air Show. As of 1 p.m. on November 25, the website indicates the following: General Admission No. 1
• Adult (18+): $50 Saturday/$45 Sunday. Tickets are only valid for the day purchased. “All sales are final. No refunds. No rainchecks.”
Junior (13-17): $15 Saturday/$12 Sunday. Tickets are only valid for the day purchased. “All sales are final. No refunds. No rainchecks.”
• Junior Youth (6-12): $8 Saturday/$6 Sunday. Tickets are only valid for
The Tdap vaccine, recommended for adults and adolescents, protects against pertussis, as well as tetanus and diphtheria. Whooping cough cases have been on the rise already in 2024 throughout the country. Missouri is currently experiencing a several-fold increase in the rate of cases statewide.
A person with whooping cough is contagious for up to 21 days after the onset of a cough if they do not take antibiotics. Early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment may shorten the amount of time someone is contagious. Some people should re-
the day purchased. “All sales are final. No refunds. No rainchecks.”
• Child (5 & under) FREE. Tickets are only valid for the day purchased. “All sales are final. No refunds. No rainchecks.”
Flight Line Club Box (Sold Out Saturday)
$70 Sunday. Includes a folding chair, access to a shade tent, non-public portable washrooms, and a terrific view of the show! Tickets are valid only for the day purchased. “All sales are final. No refunds. No rainchecks.” Everyone requires a Flight Line Club Box ticket for this area, regardless of age. Ages 2 & under are free and must be a lap child.
Photo Pit
$250.This is the ticket for the serious photographer. Includes admission to the show 90 minutes early for photography access within the ramp space |and admission to the Photo Pit with unobstructed views of the show for photography | No Seats- table tops to change lenses | Includes complimentary water. Will require separate check-in and camera bags subject to search. Tickets are valid only for the day purchased. “All sales are final. No refunds. No rainchecks Gold Club
ceive antibiotics to prevent them from getting sick if they have been around someone with whooping cough. This should be discussed with the individual’s health care provider. Other ways to prevent respiratory illnesses
Everyone can take simple, effective steps to reduce the spread of these respiratory illnesses by washing hands frequently with soap and water, cleaning frequently touched surfaces, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow, getting plenty of regular sleep, and staying home when sick to prevent spreading illness to others.
$165 Saturday/$155 Sunday. Includes access to the Gold Club area. Includes (2) drink tickets (for beer and wine), unlimited water and soda, (1) lunch entrée per person, light snacks, and private air-conditioned restrooms. Ages 2 & Under are Free and must be a lap child. Tickets are valid only for the day purchased. “All sales are final. No refunds. No rainchecks.”
General Parking $40 Saturday/Sunday. Tickets are valid only for the day purchased. “All sales are final. No refunds. No rainchecks.” A paid parking pass, purchased online in advance, will be required for all vehicles parking at the show. No parking passes will be available at the gate, and vehicles arriving without one will not be admitted. There are no handicap-specific parking passes and a few handicapped parking spots available. These spots will be available on a firstcome, first-served basis. To park in these spots, you will need a General Parking Pass and either a handicap license plate or placard. Although purchased now, the “no refund or raincheck tickets” for the show will not be issued until Monday, August 25, 2025. They will be sent via email from noreply@eventsprout.com.
ty bank that is a locally owned and controlled, state chartered financial institution with three locations in Branson, one
DEATH NOTICES
ning hours, Bud and Lynda walked through Opryland, enjoying the venue’s colorful lights and Christmas music.
“I would be dancing on the sidewalk,” said Lynda. “As I danced, I could smell the holiday aroma of evergreen and pine and feel the crispness in the air. I sang, ‘Come share the love. Come share the joy. Come be with us at Ozark Mountain Christmas.’ “
Upon returning to the Ozarks, Bud and Lynda spent some time in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, where Lynda was penning a book.
“Each night, for several nights, I would have the most vivid dream,” Lynda explained. “In this dream, these Golden Angels would say ‘Finish the song, finish the song.’ I was pretty overwhelmed. There was a very spiritual presence in this little cottage where I was staying. I knew this song had so much more meaning than I realized. So, I put my book writing aside. I contacted Crystal Studios. They suggested I contact the Tony Orlando band. I was connected to Mark Christian. I sang the song to him from my little Eureka Spring cottage, using my car keys to sound like jingle bells in the song. Mark said, ‘I love it! Let’s meet.’ Mark recorded the song with the Tony Orlando Band at
Crystal Studios in Branson. Tony played the song during the intermission of his show in Branson.”
The song, Ozark Mountain Christmas, quickly became a hit in Branson, Missouri. Mark Christian sang the song to thunderous applause at the kick-off of the Festival of Lights at the Grand Palace. Christian would go on to perform the song on Branson area radio programs, and it was the featured song for the Kimberling City Table Rock Lake Area’s Christmas season promotion. The song
“Ozark Mountain Christmas” was featured on themed floats as part of the Branson Adoration Parade, and later that year, the song was nominated for—and received—many awards, including the coveted ASCAP Award.
Throughout the years, “Ozark Mountain Christmas” has been recorded several times. Mark Christian’s recording of the song reached No. 5 on the charts of Nashville’s Tracker Magazine in 1997. The late James Marvell, nationally known as part of the pop group Mercy, charted at No. 1 with Colt Records. The song was also recorded by John Tweed, who headlined his own show in Branson, vocalist Larry Moore, and Joe Gallo of The Promise. The song has been featured as part of many other shows and productions in and out
of Branson. Branson artists Doug Gabriel and Jennifer in the Morning both shared the holiday tune on their respective shows, as did Steve Grimm, who performed the song on the Showboat Branson Belle. The song also aired nationally, on Walmart Radio, among other places the words were heard.
“The late Gary S. Paxton was getting ready to cut ‘Ozark Mountain Christmas’ his style, but he went to be with the Lord before he could complete the project. I would have loved to hear his version of the song,” said Lynda. Gary was a musical genius. Also, we have performed the ‘Ozark Mountain Christmas’ song each year for many years at the
International Country Gospel Music Awards Convention in Branson. Bud and I asked some of our local artist friends to join us on stage for the performance. Instead of Gladys Knight and the Pips, we lovingly announce it as Lynda Lynn and her Christmas Pips.”
Next in line to record
“Ozark Mountain Christmas,” will be Stevie Lee Woods, who headlines the Nashville Roadhouse Live Show.
“I wrote the song to bring joy and love and show my love for our Lord, and to all people living in and visiting Branson, hoping to convey the true meaning of the Ozark Mountain Christmas Season,” explained Lynda. “The Ozark Mountain
Christmas season was just beginning, so the ‘Ozark Mountain Christmas’ song came to my heart to celebrate our Lord’s birth and raise a praise for Him.”
‘Ozark Mountain Christmas’ is the title track of a fabulous CD featuring holiday selections penned by Lynn. To order the CD, contact Bud or Lynda Lynn, via email at angelstrails@ gmail.com.
Ozark Mountain Christmas
A child was born to Mary
He was the special one
He came to save His people Christ the newborn son.
He came to share
With us today He died for us
To show the way
So celebrate This special day At Ozark Mountain Christmas Refrain: Come share the love Come share the joy. Come be with us At Ozark Mountain Christmas
A Child was born to Mary It was a holy birth. He was born the Savior To live and die on earth.
Jesus came to be with us To strengthen us each day. We must serve Him faithfully
So He will guide our way.
Repeat refrain Oh, Lord, let’s be together And spread the Holy word
To share the love of Jesus With everyone on earth.
Brooks, Melba 97 Branson Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory
Derry, Ronald 85 Hollister Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory Harris Michael Eugene 39 Hollister Cremations of the Ozarks Hazen, Robert Eugene 70 Lampe Stumpff Funeral Home, Kimberling City
Heiniger, Jerry 89 Powersite Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory Hernandez-Cardona, Emmanuel 54 Branson Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory
Laughter, Jimmy 64 Branson Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory Nottle, Martha (Newbould) 93 Cremations of the Ozarks Wimer, Phyllis “Joan” 85 Branson West Stumpff Funeral Home, Kimberling City
Iappreciate this time of the year in which our country stops to express thanksgiving for the many blessings we have received from God.
My family will also pause and gave thanks to God on Thanksgiving Day. But to the Christian every day should be celebrated as a day of thanksgiving. Why? Because every day is a day that the Lord has given us and we should rejoice and be glad in it (Psalm 118:24). The apostle Paul wrote that it is God’s will that we always give him thanks (1 Thess. 5:18).
But so many people today are ungrateful. The majority of people live self-centered lives. They act as though they deserve everything that they receive and they have an insatiable appetite for more. Those people are like the children on Christmas morning who ask, “Is that all?”
Ingratitude. This word has broken more hearts, destroyed more homes, caused more tears to be shed, and created more hatred than any other. Some may be thinking, “There is too much pain in my life to be thankful for anything.” To these people I ask: Have you lost a loved one? Be thank-
ful for the amount of time you shared even if it was short. Do you have physical ailments? Be thankful for whatever degree of health you have. Do you live in a house, apartment or tent? Be thankful for your shelter! Do you own a car, truck or jalopy? Do you have money to ride the bus or do you have two healthy legs to travel upon? Do you have friends who drive? Be thankful! In Luke chapter seventeen we read of ten men who had leprosy. There was no known cure for this disease and those who were infected were doomed to die a slow, painful death. The infected men approached Jesus with the desire to be healed. The Lord instructed them to go and show themselves to the high priest. As they were traveling it was suddenly realized that all ten were healed of their illness. Imagine the joy they must have felt to know that their “death sentence” had been pardoned. However, only one man out of the ten felt the need to return to Jesus and thank him for saving his life. Upon seeing the return of only the one Jesus asked, “Were there not ten that were healed? Where are the others?” Jesus had not commanded that the lepers return and express gratitude to him. Yet he makes it clear that, had their hearts been right, they would have wanted to thank him. When is the last time you expressed your gratitude to God? Let us remember to make every day a day of thanksgiving to our creator since he is the provider of every good gift (James 1:17).
BY EVANGELIST TIM KIDWELL, Branson Church of Christ
“Freedom from Want,” Norman Rockwell, 1943
pinion
First Amendment to the United States Constitution Congress shall make no law respecting an establishement of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
ROB DOHERTY Publisher (504) 583-8907 robd@bransonglobe.com
JANET STEINKAMP Editor editor@bransonglobe.com
GARY J. GROMAN Independent Journalist
ROSE BUCKLES Freelance Writer/Bilingual Rosebuckles1999@gmail. com
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Ad Designer gabbydor210@gmail.com
THIS POSITION IS OPEN! SEE OUR AD IN THE CLASSIFIEDS Stone Co. Account Rep.
MARK FEDER Taney Co. Account Rep. (805) 320-3746 shotgunart@yahoo.com
JOHN FULLERTON Area Historian cowboyclub1994@gmail.com
LUANNA FULLERTON Entertainment Writer bransonglobeluanna@ gmail.com
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As we celebrate Thanksgiving in 2024, with the direction our Nation and world is heading in, some might wonder what we are thankful for. To an Ole Seagull, it is a special day of giving thanks to God for the blessings he has, has had, and the hope that those blessings will continue to flow to those and the Country he loves.
Common sense tells him that something celebrated as “Thanksgiving Day” should be a day of “giving thanks.” Who among us says “thank
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer
For the last couple of weeks, my morning devotions have been from the Apostle Paul’s letters to Timothy, his “spiritual son.”
In the context of Timothy’s leadership role at the Ephesian church, much of Paul’s counsel is about standing firm in the faith and identifying false teaching trying to permeate the church. Paul did not expect this to be easy for Timothy; in fact, 2 Timothy was written during
BY JOSHUA HESTON StateoftheOzarks Media & Design
Night fell out on the big road, a thousand trucks lit like Christmas trees, 80 miles-per-hour stars in the sudden dusk, stars streaming west, following the contours of the land, west wind to a dying sun. This Osage land is where upland plateau — all rocks and hollers and ridges — meets prairie, bleak and hopeful. The landscape is ancient, black silhouette of a tree line immortal, Osage orang-
you” to “no one?” People give “thanks” to someone or something for a reason.
Yet, even as some would take “CHRIST” out of CHRISTmas, they would take the “Thanks” out of Thanksgiving. To whom are we giving “thanks?” “Coronado’s 1541 Thanksgiving in Palo Duro Canyon, the 1600 Puritan Thanksgivings in New England, and the earliest days of American history testify to the fact that the roots of our modern-day Thanksgiving is in giving thanks to God for blessings given.
The Proclamations establishing “Thanksgiving” and history itself reveal the true meaning of “Thanksgiving” and its involvement with the very foundation of our Nation. One of the “First Thanksgiving Proclamations,” issued in 1676 by the Governing Council of Charlestown, Massachusetts, proclaimed, “a day of
Solemn Thanksgiving and praise to God for such his Goodness and Favor ….”
On December 18, 1777, after the victory over the British at Saratoga, the Congress recommended: “That at one time, and with one voice, the good people may express the grateful feelings of their hearts, and consecrate themselves to the service of their divine benefactor; and that, together with their sincere acknowledgments and offerings they may join the penitent confession of their sins; and supplications for such further blessings as they stand in need of.”
On November 16, 1789, the First President of the United States, George Washington, issued a Thanksgiving Proclamation stating, “Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to
be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor, and Whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint committee requested me to ‘recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many single favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness.’”
Abraham Lincoln, in his 1863 Thanksgiving Proclamation, said it best. “No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should
be solemnly, reverently, and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.” Particularly at this time in our Nation’s history, it would seem appropriate to stop and give “Thanks” to Almighty God for the many blessings he has bestowed upon this Nation and its people. As Lincoln beautifully says, “No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God.”
Reflections: Don’t neglect the training
Paul’s final imprisonment in a Roman dungeon, and persecution as well as false doctrine were on the rise. What stands out to me in these passages is the need for diligence. Paul starts right out in 1 Timothy by listing problematic behaviors in the church that must be addressed, including being “averse to sound teaching” (v. 11, BSB). To combat this, Timothy is instructed to “fight the good fight, holding on to faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and thereby shipwrecked their faith” (v. 18-19). It is also implied that Timothy is still a fairly young man.
With reminders to bathe everything in prayer (ch. 2) and establish high standards for leadership (ch. 3), chapter 4 uses the metaphor of
es ancient and twisted. The landscape is modern, full of truck stops and billboards, exhorting us to a common age. Westward against the dark, the sky turns brilliant, crimson, bloodied day end in the hovering ether.
In-between spaces are dark and magical things. The in-between of mountain rock and prairie grass, the in-between of fall and winter, day and night. Suspended in space, there is old magic in the in-between, easy enough to overlook.
Twenty-four hour lights fool the mind, much like keeping the barn light on will fool a bleary-eyed chicken who could wander long beneath a false forever star. Dusk, twilight, the sun slipping beyond the horizon and the world plunging darker, the
athletic training, with words like “diligence,” “persevere,” and “pay close attention.” Chapters 5 and 6 continue with cautions about sound doctrine, as does the entire second letter; 2 Timothy 2:15 is an often-quoted reminder to work diligently and “accurately handle the word of truth.”
Paul also tells Timothy to “be a good soldier” (2 Tim. 2:3). I thought about these passages recently, as Word War II and Korean War veterans shared stories at their reunion during veterans week in Branson. I’ve also been browsing my dad’s copy of “Follow Me: The History of the Second Marine Division in World War II,” which he received after the war. The photos in that book are sobering; soldiers charged out of
moment forever regarded as potent, is now easy to neglect.
Modern purveyors of magic oft-take the approach that magic is what we make of it. If “it” resonates with you, then just go with it. Meandering consumerism at its finest makes us again the center of the known universe. “If a tree falls in the forest and no one is there to hear it,” goes the inane philosophy, “does it make a sound?” Only the pointless navel-gazers of the 20th century would pause over such a stupid question. Of course the tree would make a sound! Human beings are not that important. Lost in our own hubris, we forget the trees are there to listen as well.
“Do not cite the Deep
Out of the mouths of babes...
COMPILED BY TIFFANY
GRAVETT
While grocery shopping one day I asked my son to go get a gallon of skim milk. He responded, “But I know something that tastes exactly like skim milk and it’s much cheaper.”
“What?”
“Water.” ***
Once, my daughter planted a small dogwood tree that her dad accidentally
ran over with the mower. The next day I found a little sign she had made in the place where her tree had been that read, “Tree, one month old. Died April 14, 2015. Killed by Dad.” ***
I was watching my daughter from the door as she did jumping jacks. When she was finished, she flexed her muscles, took a good look at her tiny arms, let out a sigh of disappointment and
walked away sadly. ***
One day when my son was getting frustrated with something he was trying to do I heard him say, “Oh, for the love of Mike!” ***
On a cold winter day my daughter said, “I don’t want to go outside! It’s freeze-tothe-ing!” ***
While signing into a website recently, my son told
Higgins boats or dropped by parachute, ready to do what needed to be done; many did not survive, but that possibility didn’t stop them from giving their best. The work and preparation required is something citizens often take for granted about our military, and we don’t always think about the young age of many soldiers; Dad was barely 19 when he fought in the battle of Saipan.
What would happen if we applied, and expected, that same diligence in our church youth groups and young adult groups today?
Could a revival like the recent Asbury University outpouring take place right in our Wednesday night youth meetings? I’ve seen some youth groups over the years tackle tough conver-
Magic to me, Witch,” roars C. S. Lewis’ Aslan, “[for] I was there when it was written.” Suspended in space, the old wooden bridge over the Spring River guarded the cold, dark waters for generations, bridge suspended at midnight between all six compass points. Phantom horses ran on that bridge once, it was said, and Little People were seen abroad beneath the moon. Turn three times ‘round as the clock strikes twelve to summon the devil. Go ahead, ask him for a favor in return for a soul. In-betweens are hard things, especially as the eventide sky turns orange, deep, fiery heart of creation smoking out.
The smoke of the night fills the air hazy, swirling around the vintage neon,
me he was really glad that there was a “custom” option on the gender question. Slightly concerned, I asked him why and he responded, “Because now I can identify as a guinea pig.” ***
My two year old went through a phase of wanting to watch the same movie over and over again. One day I broke her away from the TV long enough to come watch the sunset with me.
sations about biblical standards and being prepared to handle questions about the Bible and the gospel, but to be honest, I’ve also seen meetings that were mostly entertainment. While youth meetings should be an enjoyable time of fellowship, it’s vital that we address tough issues, equip our youth with biblical answers, and develop a prayerful atmosphere for the Holy Spirit to speak to their hearts. Talking with my own young adult children, I get the idea that many young people are tired of meaningless or self-centered culture and are ready to engage seriously with something they believe in. Let’s heed Paul’s advice to Timothy and not disappoint them.
around the arabesques of the Spanish Mission Fantasy, a movie palace on the edge of the Wild West, not far from the river, not far from the ragged dark hollers. Someone just burning leaves, nothing more, but there is mystery in the night, ghosts peering from behind old barber shop windows. The scrappy elms shiver, losing leaves quickly now in the cold damp. The leaves are crumpled on broken sidewalk. A shedding from the old, a new thing is dying into the winter’s rebirth, rebirth the color of rich, deep soil, the color of night, the color of shadow. Hope is lost behind the eastern horizon, but not forever lost, hope crisp as a cold spring frost. In a twinkling, the sky is black.
When it was over, she said, “I want to watch it again!” ***
While taking a walk one fall evening, my son asked me, “Mom, if you could go back and change anything, what would it be?” I started thinking of all my regrets and things I wish had been different. Then he interrupted my thoughts with an answer to his own question. “I wouldn’t change a single thing.”
BY HEATHER HAYGOOD Columnist
“Dear Santa, this year please give me a big fat bank account and a slim body. You mixed those two up last year.” –Unknown Happy Thanksgiving week! Today, I came across an article titled “37 Funny Christmas Quotes to Ease the Holiday Hustle,” which is where the inspiration for today’s article came from. While everyone is
BY TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer
More common these days than church bells or choir bells at Christmastime is the jingling we hear at many a storefront. It is the sound of faithful volunteers
BY ROSE BUCKLES, Local Freelance Writer
On Tuesday, November 5, 2024, the United States of America voters said a resounding Yes to four more years for our 45th President, Donald J. Trump, soon to be sworn in as our 47th President. The map of the United States is almost covered in red illustrating Republican votes across our nation. He and his campaign reached millions of voters in diverse gatherings and meetings. Hispanic and Black voters know he is the real deal and cares about all Americans. Voters showed up in unprecedented numbers to speak their mandate and their faith in support of a former President of the United States. He has shown America what it means to be a true patriot. He and his family have pledged to make America great again.
Everyone continues to witness many examples of his successful leadership. His valiant determination to, as he said, on that dreadful afternoon of July 13, “Fight, Fight, Fight” after being shot at a rally in Butler, PA. An important part of his campaign is his clear policies and messages to the American people. He visited with Americans and involved them in sharing their concerns and hopes for the future of America. The boots on the ground went knocking on doors
Thank you for reading the
And so, it begins
making their Black Friday shopping plans, I am blocking time off my calendar to stay home with my family. There is nothing like intentionally curating rest to ease the holiday hustle. My goal today is to share ideas with you that remind you to enjoy the weeks leading up to Christmas. May you be inspired to curate joy and reminded to slow down enough to enjoy the season.
“It’s beginning to cost a lot like Christmas.” –Unknown Holiday Season Bucket List
• Cozy up with a good book.
• Sip on some fresh hot cider.
Hop in the car for a sce-
nic drive.
Create a holiday playlist.
• Watch a holiday movie and build a menu around the movie.
• Host a smores and hot chocolate bonfire with loved ones.
Hike in the crisp air.
• Bake your favorite treat.
• Take a listening walk.
As soon as November 1 hits, we are bombarded by a commercialized approach to the Christmas season, and every other email or advertisement on TV is inviting us to partake in the pre, pre, PRE-Black Friday sales. Truly in a fulfilled life, the best things are free.
Dominic and I have had an extremely busy few weeks full of last-minute appoint-
ments, “necessary” pop-up meetings, family functions, sporting events, and planning new projects while trying to wrap up as many of the old ones so we can rest with our children.
“You can tell a lot about a person by the way they handle three things: a rainy day, lost luggage and tangled Christmas tree lights.”
–Maya Angelou
Before you get into the thick, let me remind you to take a little time for some TLC. I’ve curated a list of self-care ideas. Pick one or all and schedule it on your calendar as a non-negotiable appointment. We show up as the best versions of ourselves when we are rested and restored.
• Take a holiday-scented bath with bath salts and candles.
• Make a nostalgic recipe that reminds you of one of your favorite memories.
• Read by candlelight and listen to instrumental music.
• Find a new holiday tea to enjoy.
• Plan a cozy night in with your love.
• Create a peaceful morning routine. Get your crockpot out and use it so that you come home to a warm meal.
Start a gratitude/prayer journal and use it to highlight all your blessings.
Breakfast at Tiffany’s: Hot chocolate challenge
ringing out a call to give.
The sight of those red metal buckets has become such a normal part of the Christmas season that it’s easy to walk right by without giving it a second thought. I’m guilty of it myself. Many times I don’t want to dig in my purse for change simply because I’m freezing and want to get indoors out of the cold as quickly as possible. My dislike for chilly temperatures makes me sympathize for those selfless bell-ringers standing outdoors for hours on end. This got me thinking
and making phone calls encouraging voters to make a choice for their future.
From the west coast to the east coast and the northern states to the tip of Texas, voters reminded him they believe in him. His family has been very supportive and has endured many years of service, sacrifices, false accusations, time and talents to help him achieve his dream of helping make America great again.
Americans in loud voices said enough is enough of the almost four years of lies, scenarios and puppets with agendas. The current Administrations’ failed policies cost Americans financial burdens. The economy cost companies millions, and they increased their prices and layoff of employees. The cost of gasoline and groceries increased, some experts say, by 20% straining families and businesses across the nation. It has been difficult for families to purchase homes and cars. Currently, there are several wars that President Biden has engaged America in and funded. Since February 2022 Ukraine has committed the United States with over $56 billion
about what I could do to help make their time there a little bit warmer and more enjoyable. So, I came up with a plan.
I loaded my kids up in the car and we headed to the nearest gas station. I told them each to get a cup of hot chocolate, but that they weren’t allowed to drink it. Then I gave them the plan. We would drive up to the front of a few stores which had bell ringers at the doors and surprise them with a cup of hot chocolate. When at first my kids were sad about
dollars. Throughout the past four years there have been millions of illegal entries by undocumented immigrants who were given permission by the current Administration to come across the borders from many countries. Our borders have not been secured. President-elect Trump had secured the border during his first term as President. He will do it again. States and cities across the United States have been experiencing difficult burdens financially and through serious crimes because of the failed immigration policies of the current Administration.
Many prayers were answered and we are a grateful nation. We thank God for his divine blessings each day. At this time of the year when American families are gathering to celebrate our nation’s freedoms and liberties there is greater hope and faith in a brighter future for all Americans. We remember our military wherever they serve and our veterans who remind us of their importance and service to our country. Special thanks and recognition to Congress and first responders for their service. President-elect Don-
not getting to drink it themselves, they were suddenly filled with excitement. I had also thought they might be a little apprehensive about approaching a complete stranger and giving them a hot drink. Boy, was I wrong! On the contrary, they started arguing about who got to give their hot chocolate away first. What followed was one of the most fun experiences my kids and I have ever had.
The initial reaction of those being given the hot chocolate was that of con-
fusion, then surprise. Then came questions like, “Is that really for me?” and “Are you serious?” At the response in the affirmative, a smile would spread across their face. Sometimes you’d see a tear forming in their eye. An outpouring of thanks would immediately follow. Then as we drove away, we’d look back to see them sipping away, a smile still on their face. After the exhilarating experience, I took the kids back to the gas station to get some hot chocolate of their own.
No matter how you decide to spend your holiday season, remember that you cannot give what you don’t already have inside of you. This is your sign to take care of yourself.
“Christmas gives us an opportunity to pause and reflect on the important things around us.”
—David Cameron
I would love to hear your feedback. If you have been enjoying my articles, please visit hshaygood.com and click The Love Journey tab to order your copy of my new book and sign up for weekly emails. My emails are fresh and different from my weekly Globe articles. “Love is a journey not a destination.”
What we quickly found was that it doesn’t always take huge gestures to touch a life. Sometimes just making someone feel noticed and meeting a momentary need can leave an impact on them that they will remember forever. And now, this is where the challenge comes in. Take this idea and run with it! See how exhilarating it is when you do something out of the ordinary to make someone’s day better. In the process, you’ll find yourself feeling much happier, too!
ald J. Trump is working on gathering his department heads and cabinet officials so together they will begin their work mandated by the American people. America is a shiny city on a hill anticipating a renewed golden age for all to continue seeking their dreams while remembering past generations who gave their all for our day. Hip, hip, hooray to all who voted and said yes to a great leader who demonstrated his commitment to
the American people and the Constitution of the United States of America. As the patriotic song says: God bless America, my home sweet home.
America turns red (Submitted by Rose Buckles)
BY DAVE RAMSEY, CEO, Ramsey Solutions, and
an eight-time No. 1 national best-selling author, and
host of The Ramsey Show
Dear Dave,
One of my credit card bills was turned over to a collection agency because I was late making payments several times. The agency has offered me
DR. RICHARD BAKER, AIF®, is the founder of and an executive wealth advisor at Fervent Wealth Management. https://www. facebook.com/Dr.RichardBaker
O
n one of my trips to Nicaragua, I stayed in a motel on the Pacific Ocean.
Early in the morning, I noticed several small fishing boats coming in and went to the beach to meet them.
I watched them start selling their fish to villagers, who would buy fish by the basketful and then bicycle it to
BY HEATHER TANKERSLEY, REALTOR®,
provides services for residential, commercial, land and lake properties in the Branson
Tri-Lakes area.
My best piece of advice?
two or three different payment options I can afford. If I agree to one of these, does the original creditor get paid, as well?
Bethany Dear Bethany, You’re facing one of two possibilities. The collection agency is either directly representing the credit card company, or it owns the debt outright. Neither way of handling it is unusual when someone has defaulted on a loan. Here’s the deal. You’ve already got a mark against you on your credit report for the bill being turned
over to collections. So, at this point settling on a credit card you’ve defaulted on is really no big deal. Unless you have the cash on hand right now to make good on the debt outright, I’d accept whichever deal makes the most sense for you financially at the moment. But if you want my very best piece of advice for you, and anyone else finding themselves in this kind of situation, Bethany, it goes something like this. Stop using credit cards!
— Dave ***
The unexpected is al-
ways lurking
Dear Dave, When I leave my job in two or three years, I’ll still have a good income of around $80,000 thanks to my pension. I talked with my wife recently about us not needing an emergency fund with a continuing steady income like this, but she thinks we should still have money set aside strictly for emergencies. I think we would be fine with my pension and our other investments, but she says a fund set aside strictly for the unexpected would make her feel safer. What
are your thoughts?
Barrett
Dear Barrett, I always recommend folks have an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses. Put it in a good money market account with check writing privileges and a decent interest rate. That way, your money will work for you a little bit until it’s needed. I know a good pension can feel really solid. But there’s always the possibility of lost income or very large, unexpected expenses. Life can take a big financial chunk out of you
at any time. What if one, or both of you, have a major medical event? Even with the other investments you mentioned, you should have an emergency fund. Period.
In your case, you could probably lean toward three months of expenses in your emergency fund. If it were me, I’d go ahead and make it a full six months of expenses. Trust me, a fully funded emergency fund will make both of you feel better. It can turn a disaster into nothing more than an inconvenience.
— Dave
Stock Market Insights: Tariffs and inflation – implications for 2025
neighboring villages to sell on the street. I was amused by the whole business model and noted that there were no taxes or invoices exchanged—just fish for cash.
Inflation and tariffs have continued to be on everyone’s minds and were a hot topic during the election.
A report last week showed that inflation in October rose 0.2% from September, continuing the same steady monthly pace as July, August and September. This means prices continue to increase slowly, much to consumers’ frustration.
Though inflation continues to be stickier than the Federal Reserve officials anticipated, they are expected to lower their rate again in December. Still, the Fed could pause their rate cuts in January as
strong consumer spending and stronger-than-expected economic growth continue to push prices up. How will tariffs affect inflation?
Investors are concerned that potential Trump tariffs could make inflation worse. A tariff is simply a tax on goods imported from other countries. The question is, who ends up paying the tax?
The company that imports the product either passes the tax on to the customer as a price increase or pays it themselves, which reduces its profits. Reviewing the effects of Trump’s 2018 tariffs, it seems that not all price increases are passed on to consumers. For example, a National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) white paper stated
that in 2018, only “half the cost of the steel tariffs” were passed on to customers.
Of course, the new administration could exclude some products from the tariffs. The first Trump administration granted exclusions for over 2,200 products after businesses applied for exemption because the tariff would do significant harm or that product was not available in the US. Ironically, Biden kept most of Trump’s tariffs and put additional tariffs in place in May of this year. What happened to inflation in 2018–2019?
After reviewing the Producer Price Index and the average wholesale price between 2013 and 2024, I noticed that tariffs imposed in 2018 hurt companies more than consumers. This is be-
cause the wholesalers didn’t fully pass on the additional cost of importing. That doesn’t mean companies will decide to swallow the increased expense instead of raising their prices this time, but it could be a pattern.
Taxes, whether from tariffs or policy decisions, usually slow down the economy. Businesses and consumers feel the impact; employment typically shrinks, and the impacted foreign countries often retaliate with tariffs on U.S. goods as a tit for tat. Tariffs can also have positive effects, such as creating negotiating opportunities and forcing companies to produce those goods in the U.S. instead of other countries, providing jobs in America.
Investors are right to
move into 2025 with caution because of economic headwinds. The market is becoming overvalued, the effects of tariffs are unknown, and stubborn inflation has continued. So far, the market has remained strong thanks to consumers who continue to spend at high levels, a season of Fed rate cuts, and many businesses ramping up spending.
Thinking back to that day in Nicaragua, I realize that a modern society needs taxes for roads, police and other things. But as I started helping some of the fishermen push their boats ashore, I couldn’t help but wonder just how nice it would be to live in a tax-free world. Have a blessed week! www.FerventWM.com
How real estate agents take the fear out of moving
with everything going on right now? The decision to move shouldn’t be scary, it should be exciting. And the best way to eliminate any fear is to work with a pro.
Real estate agents are so much more than just transaction facilitators; they’re trusted guides to help you navigate the complexities of the housing market with confidence and ease. And a great agent can turn what may feel like a daunting process into a manageable—and even enjoy-
able—experience.
That’s why, in a Bright MLS survey, respondents agreed partnering with an agent is essential and helps cut down on their stress.
Here are just a few examples of why that expertise can give you so much peace of mind.
1. Explaining the Current Market
You may be seeing misleading headlines about a potential market crash, falling prices, and more. And when you’re not an expert
yourself, it’s easy to get swept up in the clickbait and let that scare you. As Jason Lewris, Co-Founder and Chief Data Officer at Parcl, says: “In the absence of trustworthy, up-to-date information, real estate decisions are increasingly being driven by fear, uncertainty, and doubt.”
A real estate agent is there to help you separate fact from fiction and to debunk any headline that does more to terrify than clarify. With their deep understanding of local market trends, home values, inventory levels, and more, they’ll help you feel more confident in your decision.
2. Walking You Through the Process Step-byStep
Is this your first time going through the process as a buyer or a seller? Don’t worry. Your agent will walk you through every step along the way, from the ini-
tial conversation all the way to closing day. As NerdWallet explains:
“If it’s your first time buying — or selling — you’re likely to come across terms you don’t recognize and tasks that seem baffling. What’s the difference between pending and contingent? Why do you need title insurance? How thoroughly do you need to fill out disclosure forms? Your agent should be able to confidently and competently explain it all.”
And if you’ve done this before, but it’s been a while, an agent will tailor how they explain it all to your previous experience. They won’t bog you down with details, they’ll only give you as much of a refresher as you want and need.
3. Advocating for Your Best Interests
Does the thought of dealing with the back and forth of the transaction make your palms sweaty? Put that anx-
iety aside. Your agent is a skilled negotiator trained for these exact scenarios. And the best part is, they work for you. So, it’s your goals they’re using that expertise to fight for. They’ll work to secure the best possible terms for you, whether it’s getting a better price as a homebuyer or negotiating a higher sale price as a seller. This removes the fear of a bad deal or being taken advantage of during the process.
4. Solving Any Unexpected Problems Quickly Worried something is going come up that you don’t know how to handle? Rest assured, your agent has you covered. Agents are skilled problem-solvers. They not only address issues, but they get ahead of them before they become deal-breakers – and that helps keep the process on track. So, if any challenges do pop up, know your agent has the skills and experience necessary to find a solution that works for you.
Bottom Line
Don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back from achieving your goals. Let’s connect so you can move forward with confidence.
It’s Your Move! I believe every family should feel confident when buying or selling a home.
Heather
BY JODY JOHNSON GODFREY Wellness Design Specialist
Convenience kills. If you contemplate this long and hard enough, you’ll probably agree.
In the long run, “convenience” makes its mark on our health along with our
Nasal spray addiction
pocketbooks. One of those conveniences we’ve come to count on is nasal sprays, which offer us instant gratification, but not without a price.
Yes, it clears a stuffy nose in a pinch; just a couple of squirts neutralize swollen nasal tissues in just seconds or minutes. Some brands can even offer 12 hours of long-lasting relief. This “relief” can be quite costly in terms of overuse (dependency) and addiction.
Dr. David Vernick of Deaconess Beth Israel Medical Center in Boston warns
about the nasal spray addiction phenomenon. Basically, we become accustomed to the immediate and complete relief; however, rebound congestion ensues. Then we become dependent and addicted to the remedies.
The reason we don’t get cleared up and breathing fine is because after several days of usage the nasal membranes reswell. This pattern of usage continues, and any patient has a real good chance of becoming trapped in the vicious cycle of overuse/addiction. This can last from weeks to years; there’s
even a website for addicts (afrinaddiction.com). This addiction seems to fly under the radar for a couple of reasons. Most of the time at a physical, the doctor doesn’t look up your nose. Also, when he asks you about the medicines you take, most folks don’t even bother to mention the over-the-counter ones, although they should.
Decongestants are not a solution for the problem that seems to prompt their usage, except for the case of a common cold, and then, they should only be used for
three days. Seasonal or persistent allergies or chronic vasomotor rhinitis or an obstruction caused by a deviated septum should all be treated with nasal steroids, according to most doctors. This builds up their action over time to control chronic stuffiness without the risk of rebound or significant side effects. Also, oral decongestants that are time released are a good choice because they lack the potential, again, for the “rebound” effect of congestion promoting more spray use.
External strips that hold the nose open for easier breathing are also a good option along with Vicks or a similar product. When discontinuing the nasal decongestant, start substituting with saline spray. This will make the transition easier and simultaneously will help heal the nasal tissues. The addictive ingredients of the offenders are: phenylephrine, a short-acting vasoconstrictor (Neo-Synephrine) and Oxymetazoline along with xylometazoline (Afrin).
Recognize holiday heart symptoms to stay healthy during holidays
BY TAYLA HOLMAN, missionhealth.org
Food is a universal language that brings people together, especially during the holidays. Everyday diets often take a backseat to festive spreads laden with salt, sugar and fat. Alcohol tends to flow more freely as well. This type of overindulgence can lead to holiday heart symptoms if you’re not careful. Fortunately, you can enjoy the holidays and protect your heart health at the same time with a few small tweaks. What is holiday heart syndrome?
Holiday heart syndrome refers to atrial fibrillation (AFib) associated with binge drinking. AFib is an irregular and often rapid heartbeat, known as arrhythmia. The term “holiday heart syndrome” was coined in 1978 when a group of researchers observed 24 patients who had been hospitalized with AFib after a weekend of binge drinking.
The patients didn’t have a history of alcohol misuse, either — all it took was a couple of days to cause heart problems.
Binge drinking is a pattern of drinking alcohol that brings your blood alcohol concentration to 0.08% or higher. For women, that usually means drinking four or more drinks within two hours. For men, it means five or more drinks in the same timeframe.
The period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day sees the largest increase in alcohol consumption. So, while holiday heart syndrome can happen any time of year, it’s most common during the holiday season. It can affect anyone, but people with existing heart problems are especially at risk.
Holiday heart symptoms
It can be easy to dismiss holiday heart symptoms as a consequence of eating and drinking too much, so it’s important to be aware of the signs. Common symptoms
of holiday heart syndrome include:
Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Heart palpitations
Difficulty breathing
• Chest discomfort
While symptoms usually fade once you stop drinking, they can lead to serious issues if they persist, such as heart failure or stroke.
How do the holidays affect heart health?
The holidays themselves don’t cause heart issues, but the behaviors you engage in can impact heart health.
Besides spending time with friends and family, the holidays are often a time of excess. You gather around large meals that are typically richer than what you eat throughout the rest of the year. The holidays tend to disrupt normal routines as well, which may mean less sleep and exercise.
The holidays can also be stressful due to travel, grief or expenses. Or perhaps you feel pressured to get in the
holiday spirit and ignore the feeling that something is wrong or overindulge as a way to cope with negative emotions. All of these factors can strain your heart. How can you protect your heart health during the holidays?
If you’re worried about holiday heart syndrome and how it might affect your holiday season, don’t fret. You can still participate in the festivities and eat what you want as long as you’re thoughtful about how you do so.
Practice moderation
You might be tempted to load up your plate with everything on the table or go back for seconds, but practice portion control and allow your body time to adjust. It often takes 20 minutes after eating for your brain to realize you’re full. That feeling of fullness is your signal to stop eating, and ignoring it leads to overeating. This can cause heartburn, gas and indigestion.
And, of course, be mindful of how much and how
November is Diabetes Awareness Month
Submitted to Branson Globe November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a time for learning about diabetes and how it affects millions of people. The Taney County Health Department (TCHD) wants to help you understand more about diabetes and share tips on how to prevent and manage it better. What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high.
Over 37 million people in the U.S. have diabetes, including adults and youth. Diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart. The good news is that taking control of your health may prevent diabetes. How you can prevent diabetes
Many people don’t realize they are at risk for diabetes because there aren’t always clear symptoms. It’s important to know if you have risk factors like being overweight, not exercising enough, or having fami-
ly members with diabetes. Small changes such as eating more fruits and vegetables, walking or exercising regularly, and getting check-ups with your healthcare provider can help prevent diabetes. How you can manage your diabetes For people who already have diabetes, managing it can be hard. Here are some simple ways to manage your diabetes: • Make and eat healthy food.
• Be active most days. Test your blood sugar often. Take medicines as prescribed. Learn ways to manage stress.
• See your health care provider regularly. This Diabetes Awareness Month, TCHD invites everyone to learn more about diabetes, get tested and share information with
friends and family. Together, we can help prevent diabetes and support those who are living with it.
quickly you drink. It’s also important to stay hydrated while drinking alcohol.
Get moving
You can also keep your heart healthy by resisting the urge to relax on the couch after a meal. Taking a short walk after eating can lower your risk of high blood pressure, which is one of the leading causes of heart disease. Being overweight or obese are contributing factors to heart disease too.
Walking helps you burn calories and maintain a healthy weight. Keep up with your medications
If you take medication, stay on schedule — especially if it’s for heart problems. Try setting reminders on your phone or smartwatch so you don’t miss a
dose. Take your medication as soon as you wake up or before you go to bed so you don’t forget whether you’ve taken it.
The holidays are meant to be a joyous occasion, and protecting your heart health means you’ll be able to enjoy them for many years to come.
HCA Healthcare, and the HCA Healthcare Foundation are supporting and collaborating with the American Heart Association on its unique, national initiative called Getting to the Heart of Stroke™. This initiative is educating communities and healthcare providers on how to better diagnose and treat patients with stroke, especially those who have AFib, in order to improve patient outcomes.
Branson fall sports wrap-up
The 2024 fall athletic season, marking the inaugural year in the Ozark Mountain Conference, has come to a close. Here is a look back at all that our teams have accomplished this fall.
FOOTBALL: “Winning the Border Battle, the OMC title, and playing in the District Championship were the highlights of our season. Anytime a team can have an undefeated regular season, it is a major accomplishment.” Head Coach Aaron Hafner
VOLLEYBALL: After a 15-9-4 record, Head Coach Francie McBride congratulated these players for their achievements:
• Emma Skoglund: Branson Invitational All-Tournament Team; Mount Vernon All-Tournament Team; All-District Class 5 2nd Team; OMC All-Conference 1st team
Gigi McAdara: All-District Class 5 Honorable Mention; OMC All-Conference 2nd team
• Kayden Butrum: OMC All-Conference Honorable Mention GIRLS TENNIS: “We had a very successful season going 14-4 and advancing to the District Championship match. We won our own tournament and were very fortunate to have the leadership of an outstanding senior class. Our season culminated with Sylvie Barbour and Olivia Bunce earning All-State recognition by taking seventh place in doubles at the State Tournament.” - Head Coach Mike Draper
HS CHEER: “Our fall season for cheer has been one of the best of my coaching career here at Branson High School. Our competition team made it to State and accomplished so much this fall. JV and Varsity Gameday teams had evident growth and improvement and enjoyed cheering on Friday nights.
- Head Coach Stacy Alms
FRESHMAN FOOTBALL: “The freshmen football team ended the season with four wins and five losses. Our team improved drastically from Week 1 with a loss by a 40-point margin to Week nine with a win by a 40-point margin.” - Head Coach Corey Murphy
BOYS SOCCER: “It was a terrific season.12-13 overall, tied for third in the new Conference (defeating the Conference Co-Champion).”
Head Coach Dave Brenner congratulates these team members:
1st Team All-District
Class 4 District 5 - Sean Dailey, Jansen Stout
• 2nd Team - Eli Estra-
da, Cash Hedrick
• District Coach of the Year - Dave Brenner
HS CROSS COUNTRY: “The Cross Country Pirates
showcased a season of impressive growth and accomplishments with a youthful roster this year,” said Co-Head XC
Coach Gary Neal Congratulations to:
• Freshman Alexis Carter - Medaled in seven of eight regular season meets; first-team Ozark Mountain Conference; Class 5 All-District; first-team All-Southwest Missouri; Class 5 State Cross Country Championship, finishing 48th Sisters Aubrey and Madi Harr - Medaled at the Willard and Ozark Mountain Conference meets; Honorable Mention honors in the Ozark Mountain Conference.
• Freshman Patrik Deville and sophomore Reiss Webber led the boys’ team, medaling in three meets. Patrik received Second Team Ozark Mountain Conference recognition, while Reiss earned Honorable Mention.
SOFTBALL: After a 16-18 season, Head Coach Josh McKee congratulates:
All Region-Sadie Lampe
• All District 1st Team - Sadie Lampe
• All District 2nd Team - Jocelyn McQueen, Savi Engel and Jadiah Schwark
• All Conference 1st Team - Sadie Lampe, Jocelyn McQueen and Savi Engel
• All Conference 2nd Team - Jadiah Schwark
All Conference Honorable Mention - Brooklyn Davis and Kallie Hall
JH CROSS COUNTRY: Head Coach Spenser Cross congratulates regular medalists Jude Feeler, Cameron Pannell, Chris Pock, Wilder Cleek, Ayden Brooks, Tuscan Thompson, Charli Harrison, and Naomi Bilyeu.
GIRLS GOLF: Head Coach Jeff Cherry congratulates these team members for their achievements:
• Reese Cornelison - Top 3 at Willard, 1st team All-Conference, All-District, 2x Class 3 State qualifier
Clara Dean - 2x Class 3 State qualifier - shot her best score of the season at districts to earn a State spot
Adia Simpson - improved her 9-hole average over the course of the year/employee of the month at Ozarks National
• Fallyn Goldade-Keck - earned a medal at Rogersville tournament and lowered her yearlong stroke average
Dakota Ashmore - brand new to golf but she helped earn 2nd place team finish at the Nixa JV event
Madison Bough - Top 3 at Reeds Spring and Rogersville, 2nd team all-conference
Thank you to the athletes, coaches, families and supporters
who made the fall season one to remember! Make plans to be in the stands this winter to support your Pirates! Branson Schools open two-year-old preschool classroom
Branson Public Schools is proud to announce the opening of the two-year-old classroom at Pirate’s Cove Early Childhood Center, in partnership with the Ozark Mountain Family YMCA.
The Pirate’s Cove Early Childhood Center is conveniently located downstairs at Cedar Ridge Primary. Registration is now open to any family with a two-year-old living within the Branson R-IV School District. The first day of classes will be November 25.
“We are thrilled to offer this new program to our community’s youngest learners,” said Dr. Staci Ray, Director of Early Childhood. “By providing early education at this critical age, we’re helping to ensure that every child has the best possible start to their educational journey.”
Pirate’s Cove Early Childhood Center will operate in alignment with the district calendar but will remain open on professional development days. In the event of inclement weather, Pirate’s Cove Early Childhood Center will follow the district’s closure protocol.
For more information on all Branson Public Schools preschool offerings please visit our district website or call 417336-1887.
November Pirate Proud recipient
Branson Public Schools is excited to recognize Angela Torix as the Pirate Proud honoree for the month of November! Angela received over 25 nominations from colleagues, and works seamlessly with every department in Branson Schools as our District Office Data Coordinator with 21 years of service.
Now, we want to hear from YOU! Which Pirate should be celebrated next month?
Nominate an outstanding employee by completing the form through this link: https://bit.ly/3AytT1S .
Hollister HS and MS Choir winter concert, Dec. 5
The Hollister High School and Hollister Middle School Choir Winter Concert is on December 5 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Hollister High School Auditorium.
Everyone is invited to join them for an evening filled with
Branson School District QR codes for Chalk Talk, social media
Chalk Talk
Stay in Touch with Hollister Schools
Torix (Photo submitted)
music from your favorite Christmas movies presented by our sixth to 12th grade choir students.
Hollister Tiger Winter Sports preview
Hollister High School is gearing up for its athletic winter season in the Mid Lakes Conference under the direction of Athletic and Activities Director, Coach Mike Wilson. “We’re excited to kick off a competitive winter sports season in the Mid Lakes Conference,” Wilson says. “Our wrestling team, girls basketball, boys basketball, and cheer programs are ready to represent Hollister with pride and determination. We’re looking forward to a season filled with teamwork and growth.” Read about coaches Nicholson, West, Pock and Fox’s goals for this season at https://www. hollister.k12.mo.us/47160?articleID=153426.
Hollister’s first grade concert
HECC first grade’s concert “The Littlest Christmas Tree” is a show that follows the story of Santa picking out his tree to go up in his house this Christmas, but none of the Christmas trees to choose from seem to have any Christmas spirit! Making fun of the Littlest Christmas Tree’s dream to be chosen and focusing on their appearance more than the true meaning of Christmas. What will Santa do to get these trees back in line?
Come out to see this heartwarming tale to find out on December 3 from 6 to 6:30 p.m. in the HHS Auditorium.
Hollister’s Paige Hurley selected for All-State Volleyball Team
Hollister High School proudly announces that senior outside hitter Paige Hurley has been named to the 2024 Girls Missouri AllState Volleyball Team by the Missouri High School Volleyball Coaches Association (MHSVCA). Hurley is the first-ever Hollister Volleyball player to receive this prestigious honor, marking a historic achievement for the program.
Hurley’s senior season was nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing her leadership and skill on the court. She surpassed significant career milestones, including 500 career kills, 500 career digs and 100 career aces. Paige set two school records during the 2024 season: the All-Time Career Kill Record with 832 kills and the Single-Season Kill Record with 341 kills. She is also ranked second for career digs (825) and third for career aces (110), placing her in the top 10 of nearly every statistical category for both single-season and career records.
A three-time All-Conference and All-District honoree, Paige now adds All-State recognition to her impressive list of accomplishments. Her dedication and success on the court reflect her hard work and commitment to excellence. Paige will be recognized at the All-State Awards Ceremony on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at Lafayette High School in Wildwood, Missouri. The All-State Game pro-
vides an opportunity for seniors to compete alongside the best volleyball players from across Missouri in this culminating celebration of their high school volleyball careers. Students receive dictionaries from Rotary Club
Approximately 250 third graders now have another resource to help with their schoolwork.
The Rotary Club of Table Rock Lake provided dictionaries to all third graders at Stone County schools.
“The students were so excited to receive their very own dictionaries to help build their vocabulary and foster a love for learning,” said Reeds Spring Elementary School teacher Alivia Sutton. “We truly appreciate the Rotary Club’s continued support of our school and commitment to education.”
Reeds Spring Middle School students follow the 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 November:
Reeds Spring Elementary School Learners of the Month
Table Rock Career Center now open Table Rock Career Center opened for students on November 12. The new facility replaces Gibson Technical Center, which has provided career and technical education for students in Stone, Taney, and Christian counties since 1974.
In 2020, the Reeds Spring School District’s Strategic Plan outlined a plan to provide a state-of-the-art career and technical facility to expand college and career readiness opportunities. In 2022, voters approved Prop RS, a no-taxincrease bond issue that would cover the construction costs of the new building.
Work began in January of 2023 and just finished in November of 2024. A public open house will be held in January. More details will be shared soon.
Reeds Spring Primary School Learners of the Month
Hurley (Photo submitted)
Reeds Spring third grader Weston Pryor looks at his new dictionary (Photo submitted)
Top row left to right: Addison Pickerill, Addison Slaybaugh, Alex Rainey, Anna Ross, Chase Williams. Second row left to right: David Hendrix, Nathan Dysart, Jayden Murphy, JoJo Buxton, Kai Elbert. Third row left to right: Leon Magana, Lily Short, Lydia Reynolds, Lyla Mackie, Natalie Pietrzykowski. Bottom row left to right: Preston Spragg, Rory Oesterreicher, Stone Veltz, Will Carpenter, Xavier Rodriguez (Photo submitted)
Top row: Brycen Simmons, Rosalee Maples, Jasmine Ontiveros, Drucilla Watts, Luke Thamm, Andee Pankovits. Bottom row: Paisley Holcomb, Ezra Follis, Kinsley White, Christopher Marquez-Mendoza, Chloe Krystof, Kacen Day. (Photo submitted)
Table Rock Career Center (Photo submitted)
Second grade, left to right: Preston Clopton, Hadleigh Davis, Ellie Bayliff, Charlotte Mitcham, Aliyah Bailey, Quinn Reinsch. Third grade, left to right: Annabelle Slaybaugh, Lucy LeMaster, Remington Looney, Carver Smith, Westin Pryor, Wyatt Traupman. Fourth grade, left to right: J.J. Aguila, Addy Clevenger, Ben Mitcham, Jax Harrington, Jupiter Fuller. (Photo submitted)
Worship Directory
You are encouraged to worship with us!
Around Town: Here’s what’s going on in the Tri-Lakes
NOVEMBER
• Now through Dec 31
Ozarks Food Harvest: Check Out Hunger. Make a difference for neighbors facing hunger while you shop for groceries. Support Ozarks Food Harvest through Dec. 31 at local grocers by adding a $1, $3, or $5 tax-free donation to your grocery bill, at participating grocery stores across southwest Missouri: Apple Market, Country Mart, Harter House, King Cash Saver, King Food Saver, Price Cutter, Ramey, Rhodes Family Price Chopper, Town & Country Super Market, Woods Supermarket. For information: https://ozarksfoodharvest.org/events/checkout-hunger-2/. Ozarks Food Harvest, Springfield. 28 Ozarks Food Harvest: Turkey Trot, 8-10:30 a.m.
Join Ozarks Food Harvest at the 30th annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day. Donate five nonperishable food items when you pick up your registration materials or on the morning of the event. 635 E. St. Louis St., Springfield. parkboard.org/624/30th-Annual-Turkey-Trot 28 Dogwood Canyon Nature Park: Thanksgiving Dinner and Buffet, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Gather with family and friends to enjoy a savory Thanksgiving meal, featuring a buffet and specialty stations of classic holiday favorite. Reservations required. Visit: https://dogwoodcanyon.org/event/ thanksgiving-day-buffet/ for reservations and menu. General admission to Dogwood Canyon is required for non-members, 2038 W St., Hwy 86, Lampe. Afterwards,
embark on a family adventure in the canyon and enjoy the scenery of the Ozarks.
• 28 Wranglers Honky Tonk: OPEN on Thanksgiving Night! 625 Missouri Hwy. 165, Branson. wranglershonkytonk.com
DECEMBER
• 1 Forsyth Library’s Annual Festival of Trees, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at 162 Main Street, Forsyth. Silent auction will end Dec. 6, 2024, at 4 p.m. Library is open Wed.-Fri., 9:30 a.m.4 p.m.
• 1 Branson Masonic Lodge #587: Spaghetti Lunch, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Local fundraiser. All you care to eat spaghetti lunch that includes meatballs, garlic bread, salad, drink and dessert for only $10. 100 Chiefs Ct., Branson. For more information, 318349-2559.
• 2 Kimberling Area Library: Children’s Hour, 10:30 a.m. Magic Tree House Book Club (focus ages 7-11): “Christmas in Camelot.” Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with music, dance, stories and crafts. 45 Kimberling Blvd., Kimberling City.
• 3 Ozarks Food Harvest: Giving Tuesday, 12 a.m.11:59 p.m. After Thanksgiving, spend some time giving back on #GivingTuesday. By donating online on Tuesday, Dec. 3, you can help Ozarks Food Harvest, Springfield,
continue our mission to Transform Hunger into Hope this holiday season and into the new year. For more information, Ozarksfoodharvest.org or on Facebook | https:// ozarksfoodharvest.org/donate-money/
• 4 Library Center of the Ozarks: Journey through time – discovering Branson’s rich history. Hear fascinating stories and little-known facts about Branson’s past, accompanied by photos, objects and document from the museum’s collection. This program is perfect for adults of all ages, 11 a.m. Library Center of the Ozarks, upper level conference room, 200 S. 4th St., Branson
• 6-7 Neighbors and Friends of Table Rock Lake: 23rd annual Christmas Home Tour and Holiday Boutique, 9 a.m. Kimberling Area Library. Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 day of event. All proceeds benefit charities in Stone and Taney counties.
• 7 Santa at the Farmer’s Market, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Bring your family out to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Seniors Farmers Market. Bring a camera or phone to take pictures. Free will donation is optional. 11048 E. Highway 76, Forsyth
• 7 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.
• 7 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.
• 7-8 Dogwood Canyon: Guided Winter Watch, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Grab your binoculars and join us for a unique winter wildlife tour via warm shuttle van! Explore the park as we cruise the canyon in search of our captivating winter residents. Spot wild bald eagles, bison and elk! Runs Saturdays and Sundays from Dec. 7, 2024 until Jan. 26, 2025. Reservations are recommended. Park admission is a separate and required ticket. Hand warmers and binoculars are included. 2038 W State Hwy 36, Lampe. https://dogwoodcanyon. org/activity/guided-winter-watch-tour/.
• 9 Kimberling Area Library: Children’s Hour, 10:30 a.m. Story Time
(focus ages 7 and under):
“The Nutcracker” with special guest Jaydie Leigh of a local dance studio. Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with music, dance and stories focused on a Nutcracker theme. 45 Kimberling Blvd., Kimberling City.
• 11 Christmas LuncheonChristian Women’s, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at Pointe Royale Clubhouse. Come enjoy a great meal. Men are welcome! Ann Fritz will sing holiday songs and Ron Hutchcraft will bring an encouraging seasonal message. Cost is $17 each, call or text Peggy at 417-343-1418 by Dec. 9 to reserve your spot. 142 Clubhouse Dr., Branson. For more information, Christian Women’s Connection Facebook page.
• 11 Library Center of the Ozarks: Healthy twists on holiday favorites, 1:30 p.m. We’re cooking up some nutritious and delicious dishes for you to sample. We’ll share tips to make those holiday favorites healthier without sacrificing flavor. Library Center of the Ozarks, upper level conference room, 200 S. 4thSt., Branson.
• 12 Library Center of the Ozarks: Move more, feel better. Join us as we learn about the four types of exercise, easy techniques for increasing your physical activity and ALL the benefits of doing so. Library Center of the Ozarks, 10 a.m., upper level conference room, 200 S. 4th St., Branson.
Branson Market Days draw many shoppers to Branson Convention Center
STORY AND PHOTOS BY K.D.
MICHAELS, Staff Writer
The lower level of the Branson Convention Center was packed with booths bearing a wide variety of wares last weekend, when the Branson Market Days came to town.
Approximately 250 booths, featuring a wide array of items—clothing, Christmas decor, candles, toys, gift items, pillows, jewelry, lotions, door swag, wing sauce, infinity scarves, quilts, boots, magnets, wallets, knives and so much
more. Cider, cotton candy, specialty coffees and more could be found throughout the Market Days venue. Many booths even featured working craftsmen or women, much to the delight of those in attendance.
Shoppers of all ages packed the venue—many staying for hours as they shopped for gifts for others or items for their home. Food trucks outside the Convention Center and a sitting area inside made it easy for shoppers to take a break when needed.
Three young people: Cora, Ryan and Reagan were stationed at one booth.
“We are making bracelets,” they explained. We are also selling things like sugar scrub and room spray. We are also selling earrings and keychains— sport keychains, especially. And we’re selling stickers and make-your-own necklaces and bracelets.”
A little further down the aisle, local author and businesswoman Angie Harris and her business partner on one of her ventures were manning a booth, offering
Angie’s books, as well as an amazing time management system the two women collaborated on.
“We designed this entire day planner system. Everything is original in it,” said Harris. “I write the time management book, so we put the book, and the planner and the notepads together. But, they’re not bossy. They don’t tell you what to do. What they do is they give you an idea of what you can do to make changes in your life. We’ve been working together on this for about a
year and a half now.”
Market Days began when a local mother/daughter duo were searching for a new boutique, a vintage market or even a junk booth to shop, but all seemed to be hours away.
“When millions of people come to the area to spend family time in our town, we decided this is the best place to set up Branson Market Days,” said the ladies, via a post on their website. “Where else can you come for an awesome show one night or ride the
downhill roller coaster with the kiddos then head over to a unique and eclectic weekend event to shop small businesses in one location?” Branson Market Days is a unique experience for both vendors and shoppers. Held twice per year, the event is one of the most fun and fulfilling shopping experiences in Branson. Branson Market Days is over for 2024, but for more information on participating as a vendor or shopper in 2025, visit Bransonmarketdays.com.
COWBOY
L
ast week I took ya’ll back to a busy time in our community, the construction of the White River Railway from Carthage, Missouri, to Diaz, Arkansas. The track laying portion was completed on December 29, 1905. There was still a massive amount of work to complete in a little over twenty days. Railroad officials had set January 21, 1906, as the target date to begin passenger service.
With the line being 239 miles in length, Cotter, Arkansas, was considered the halfway point on
Memories from the Homestead: The Iron Horse [part
the line. For passenger service to function properly, train 206 would be the morning passenger train to depart from Carthage at 8:40 a.m., where it would arrive at Cotter around mid-day, and be spun the opposite direction on a turntable where it would make the afternoon run back to Carthage. The northbound train would be train 207. The same circumstances worked for the Diaz side—a morning train bound for Cotter would be flipped and head back to Diaz on the afternoon run. This allowed for passengers to leave Joplin, Missouri, and arrive in Memphis, Tennessee.
As I’ve looked through massive amounts of area newspaper coverage from December 1905 and January 1906, it amazes me the amount of work that needed to be completed. For instance, the construction of passenger stations would take several years. Hollister began with a depot that
was nothing more than a used box car. Garber had the same setup when they were given a retired box car in 1909. Another priority was completion of water tanks. Telegraph offices along the way were necessary with many beginning in temporary structures until a specific station/depot was completed.
As the inauguration day of January 21, 1906, neared, there were many issues as the new roadbed settled. Rock slides and cave-ins in the tunnels were a frequent circumstance. Crews still went with the January 2 plan, even though it really should have been delayed another month. As we all know, winter weather in the Ozarks can be a mess.
Because of the roadbed being new, trains were restricted to 25 mph, and while crossing bridges and trestles, the speed was lowered to 12 mph. The speed inside tunnels was reduced to 18 mph. This speed re-
striction would last into the 1930s.
On the evening of Saturday, January 20, 1906, our area of Missouri and northwestern Arkansas experienced an amount of rainfall that by Sunday evening had turned into a horrible blizzard, especially for the area from Galena to Carthage. Sunday morning, the train departed
from Carthage on time and arrived in Branson on time at 11:43 a.m. as advertised.
The Branson Echo newspaper reported, “Notwithstanding the rain, many of the citizens of Branson were out to welcome the passenger train while several were on it, returning on the northbound train.”
Well, there was a bit of a delay when 206 arrived
‘Tie a Yellow Ribbon:’ Branson Centennial Museum Talk features Tony Orlando
BY LUANNA FULLERTON, En-
tertainment Writer
Tony Orlando shared the history of the significance behind his famous song, “Tie A Yellow Ribbon” and the veterans. It all started with Bob Hope in 1973 when the song first came out.
Bob had heard his song and called to talk to Tony about doing the song at the Cotton Bowl. Bob said, “Tony, the first line in the song, ‘I’m coming home, I’ve done my time...’ it’s every mother’s wish and prayer. I want to welcome home every POW from Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam at the game. They will be all sitting on the 50-yard line. There will be over 70,000 people there.”
He further asked, “Will you open the show for me, singing this song?” Tony replied, “I would love to, but I have to warn ya, this song has only been out for three weeks, no one is going to know this song!” Bob replied, “Tony Orlando, you are talking to Bob Hope; by the time you get to Dallas for the game, it will be number one in Dallas!”
So, when Tony arrived in Dallas, he entered into a cab, and the driver had the radio on and the announcer came on and says, “Number one song that will be performed at the Cotton Bowl by Dawn and featuring Tony Orlando.” Tony couldn’t believe it, and the cab driver says, “It’s
all Bob Hope!” When he arrived at the stadium, he was able to sing his song to 500 of the bravest men that he had ever met. Tony was so humbled and honored about it. He remembers all the reactions from the POWs. Tony made a commitment that if God blessed him with a career performing that enabled him to raise money for the veterans, that he will commit to it. He came to Branson for the Veterans Day parade. He couldn’t believe that no one was around for the Veterans Day celebration. He got the idea then to give a “free show” to the veterans right then. The first year there were only around 300 veterans attending, the following
year over 5,000 on a waiting list.
He spoke about how he and other theater owners “honored” the veterans with free show tickets.
“It took some work to get the other theater owners and performers to agree, but with the ‘Blessing’ of Boxcar Willie, the rest of them followed suit,” Tony explained. During his meeting with the business owners, city people were there. And he was able to convince them to all go for the ‘free show.’
Jack Herschend says, “I think it sounds like a good idea, it would be great for the city, the country and most of all, the veterans!” Tony also emphasized on
BY
JOHN FULLERTON, a native of Taney County, and a member of the Sons of the Pioneers.
SEE TONY ORLANDO, PAGE 3C Tony Orlando (Photo by Luanna Fullerton)
in Cotter. The northbound train that was coming up from Diaz was five hours behind schedule due to a rock slide 45 miles north of Batesville. The locomotive struck a large rock on the track. The fireman was seriously injured, but everyone else in the crew including all passengers were okay. After the clean-
The afternoon train 207 crosses the White River approaching the Branson station, in early 1906. (Photo courtesy of the Branson Centennial Museum)
BY BOB FORD, Writer,
history buff and regular visitor to Branson. You can find more of Bob’s work including his historical podcasts on his website bobfordshistory. com, and on YouTube at Bob Ford’s History. Bob can be reached at robertmford@aol.com.
If you love history, we are seeking sponsors to continue running this historical column, contact Rob Doherty at the Branson Globe, 417-334-9100 for details.
President Abraham Lincoln liked to make proclamations, everything from emancipation, freeing the slaves in rebellious states, establishing new states, suspending the writ of habeas corpus to proclaiming a national holiday—Thanksgiving.
It was traumatic times as the country was in an “all out,” war within our own border. Proclamations and the issuance of Executive Power edicts were a way the President could quickly implement policies without having to battle Congress.
The Civil War had dragged on for two-plus years. Several of Lincoln’s Proclamations ordered states to supply additional troops. The War was more costly and consuming than anyone had imagined. Only until recent Union victories at Vicksburg and Gettys-
• TONY ORLANDO Continued from page 2C
how Sherry and Jack Herschend responded and supported him.
“Sherry and Jack have guided and supported me through so many things, and I sure appreciate their love and friendship,” expressed Tony. He explained how the Veterans Day show connected with the ‘Christmas time’ in 1994. Pete Herschend told Tony, “You want to do a veterans show and a Christmas show together on November 11th? There are no Christmas shows here; there is no activity here after October. If you
Thank you for reading the
With Abe Lincoln’s new proclamation, citizens rejoiced and turkeys scattered
burg did a few consider the tide was turning. At the end of 1863 there were still three active battle theaters. When the fighting season opened in the spring of 1864, Grant had come East and would face Lee for the first time at the Battle of the Wilderness, starting the brutal but final military stage of the war, the Overland Campaign.
Lincoln was a shrewd politician. He faced political factions in Congress that loathed him and colleagues that feared him. What I admire most about the President is he adjusted, learning and changing his mind using different tactics to achieve what was needed. Some of his choices followed Christian principles while others were purely political.
To remind Americans how fortunate they were even when the country seemed to be falling apart with many families having a loved one on the battlefield, Lincoln designated one day officially to reflect and give thanks. “I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday in November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwells in the Heavens.”
In today’s vernacular
I’d say it a little differently, “You know, we have it pretty good here in the United States, let’s get family and friends together the last Thursday in November,
can draw a crowd, then I will give you my word that I will buy the Radio City Rockettes Christmas Show, if you have soldout shows.” So, Tony was able to convince Andy Williams, The Osmonds and so forth to do Christmas shows along with him, and they all had night after night of sold-out shows. And, the following year Pete Herschend kept his word on getting the Rockettes.
watch a little football, eat too much and think about life, praise be.” Personally, the way articulate people spoke and wrote in the mid1800s is inspiring. We could use more of their eloquence.
When Lincoln issued Proclamation 104, “Suspending the privileges of the writ of habeas corpus,” the founders of the Constitution must have been rolling over in their graves. It is a foundational law of democracy that you cannot arrest and hold anyone without showing “cause.”
In history kings and queens could incarcerate their political foes at a whim. Countries would only change leadership through revolution and/or war. The right of habeas corpus protects citizens against arbitrary arrests and detention. That protection dates back to 1215, the Magna Carta, Europe’s first constitution.
Chief Justice Roger Taney of the United States Supreme Court and Lincoln had a constitutional showdown over the President’s ability to suspend the writ. The judge issued an opinion clearly stating Congress, not the President, had sole authority to suspend the writ of habeas corpus. Lincoln basically ignored the order.
Lincoln considered Taney an enemy. They detested each other. Taney wrote and read what many, even today, considered the worst decision the United States Supreme Court ever made in the Dred Scott case, mainly not allowing people of African descent the rights and privileges granted white cit-
Tony was able to get Bob Hope to help open the show under one condition—if he could sell his merchandise at the show. He sold his merchandise and then donated the money to Tony for any Veterans organization of his choosing. Thus, the birth of the Veterans Day shows and Christmas shows following. And, still great success to this day, all thanks to Tony!
izens.
The Chief Justice held the Bible and swore President Lincoln into the office, then had to stand there and listen as the new President delivered his first inaugural address, lambasting the court’s controversial Dred Scott opinion.
Of the time, there were only a few truly influential women: actress Laura Keene, abolitionist Anna Elizabeth Dickerson, writer Harriet Beecher Stowe and editor Sarah Josepha Hale come to mind. When Stowe, who authored Uncle Tom’s Cabin, famously visited the White House in 1862, President Lincoln welcomed her, “So you’re the little woman who wrote the book that made this great war!” No pressure in that greeting, I wonder where the conversation went from there… would you like some punch?
Tony is humbled that so many people and countries recognize and use his song, “Tie A Yellow
But it was Sarah Hale who edited the most popular monthly magazine of the day, “Godey’s Lady Book,” boosting 150,000 dedicated subscribers, and she also authored the celebrated nursery rhyme we all know, “Mary Had a Little Lamb.” Hale impacted the President’s thinking with her persuasive prose concerning the need for a National Day of Thanksgiving. She felt the other national holidays were primarily for men, Washington’s Birthday and the 4th of July. Several states and cities observed a type of Thanksgiving on different dates. What the country needed was a national proclamation dedicating a specific day where America paused, bringing the family and loved ones together to celebrate our nation, praise the Lord and give thanks!
Ribbon” to support their veterans and military from the first time that the song became a hit to
Lincoln agreed, on October 3, 1863, in the midst of a war that may destroy the nation, President Lincoln issued Presidential Proclamation 106. With this Proclamation the United States established a Day of Thanksgiving on the last Thursday of November every year. My two favorite holidays are Thanksgiving and the 4th of July. The 4th is more celebratory where Thanksgiving is reflective. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone. Share your thoughts with others, meaning say things on that day you don’t usually say. Pass down to others the gift of gratitude, showing appreciation for what we have been blessed with. I am grateful for my family, friends, good health and this beautiful country. Happy Thanksgiving!
today! He stated, “It is a recognizable symbol and song now!”
Editor Sarah J. Hale, President Abraham Lincoln (Photos submitted by Bob Ford. SOURCES: https:// www.thevintagenews.com/)
BY LUANNA FULLERTON Entertainment Writer
The Baldknobbers, the first show in Branson.
Depending on the time that
The Baldknobbers: 65 years strong and still going
you choose decides if you are in for the vintage or modern. Let me explain. The Vintage has music from the ‘70s and ‘80s including that of country, Southern Gospel and comedy. The modern you will hear more high energy country, traditional country, classic rock and pop, Gospel and comedy. At this time of the year, they have also added Christmas music according to the
platform. In both shows they honor our military and veterans. Due to the different platforms is the reason of the two-part series. My husband John and I attended the modern show and we both enjoyed it very much. This show has a special connection to John, as his great-grandfather ‘Chick Allen’ was one of the founding members. Brandon was so kind to acknowledge John from the stage on this.
Brandon is a third generation performing Baldknobber. They have a display at The Smithsonian Museum. This show is just exactly what it states about “High Energy!” It is full of music, comedy, fast pace, lots of costume changes and just plain fun. The show is just outstanding, and you will be enthralled in the energy, lights, sound and overall greatness. You are able to get an intermission to visit and purchase some outstanding merchandise or to partake in some wonderful concessions. At the end of the show the cast will visit and take pictures with you. There was a good, fun crowd to enjoy all the antics and music. The theatre is set up that there is a great view from any seat in the house. In this first part, I am highlighting the entertainers themselves. I was able to get them to indulge me in my inquisitive questions and they came through for us to read about them. So, let’s get to the nitty gritty.
Questions:
1. Where are you from and how long in the Branson area?
2. What or who influenced you to get into show business?
3. What has been a memorable moment for you while performing?
4. What is a dream or goal that you have?
5. What is a funny moment that you’ve had?
Brandon Mabe
1. Born and raised in Nixa, MO. That being said, I’ve probably spent more time in Branson than Nixa. My grandpa (Jim Mabe aka Droopy Drawers) was one of the original four Mabe Brothers that started the Baldknobbers. I basically grew up in the Baldknob-
bers Theatre.
2. My family. I grew up idolizing my grandpa, my dad and all of my family onstage. From a vocalist standpoint, I would say I was most influenced by Dennis Mabe. I try to emulate his charisma, grit and even his growl. He could sing anything. I still sing some of the songs I remember him singing from my childhood when we perform our Baldknobbers’ Vintage Show. From an emcee standpoint I’m probably a cross between my uncle Tommy Bilyeu, Gene Dove and Bob Leftridge. They had the unique ability to act as a straight man with the comedians and keep the show flowing. It was amazing how they had the audience eating out of the palm of their hands. I tried to pick pieces of each of them and then mix it with my own personality and skill sets. I guess what you see from me today is the result of that.
3. I have so many memorable moments, so it’s very tough to choose. What I love most when I perform is, without a doubt, performing and singing with my wife, Megan. Her talent still blows me away every time I hear her sing. I love watching my kids learn the business and watching them work behind the scenes. I love seeing smiling faces in the audience and knowing that we are helping them forget all of their worries, if only for a moment.
4. I honestly feel like I am living my dream right now. I love performing. I love my family’s legacy with the Baldknobbers. I just want to keep that going as long as possible. Maybe throw in a performance on the Grand Ole Opry before I die, and I’ll die a happy man.
5. We’ve all had moments
of falling, forgetting lyrics, accidentally dropping/ throwing microphones, etc. One time the cast played a prank on Bob Leftridge that I will never forget. My grandpa always used to bring Bob his guitar for a certain segment of the show and then take it back off stage when Bob finished. Bob had a very nice Martin guitar that was quite expensive. One night my grandpa got a cheap “knock-off” guitar to play a prank on Bob. When Bob wasn’t looking, my grandpa switched out guitars after he took it from Bob to leave the stage. As he was leaving, he tripped up the stairs landing on the prop guitar, smashing it into pieces. Unaware of the prank, Bob was stunned and speechless. The audience, of course, laughed uncontrollably. Bob didn’t learn about the prank until after he left the stage. All in good fun, of course.
I would like to share that I grew up loving sports as well as music. After graduating from Nixa High School, I went on to play basketball and golf for Evangel University in Springfield, MO. I graduated Evangel University with a degree in marketing and business management. I joined the Baldknobbers’ cast during my senior year of college, and as they say, “The rest is history!” I have four kids: Broden (18), Jalyn (17), Carter (15), and Wyatt (15). I’m just unbelievably proud of my family legacy with the Baldknobbers. I’m honored to be caring for the tradition with my wife and kids...hopefully, for many more years to come. Our entire cast and crew are truly the ‘Best of the Best!’ They are great people on and off the stage. We (I say “we” because it truly takes all of us) couldn’t be carrying on this great Baldknobbers’ legacy without their talents and dedication to the show. We are just incredibly grateful and blessed.
Megan Mabe
1. I am from Pella, IA. It’s a Dutch community, rich with Dutch Heritage. My own slice of heaven on earth! It’s a Hallmark movie in real life! I have been in the Branson area for 14 years.
2. My parents have always been my biggest supporters! They have ALWAYS pushed me to pursue my love of music! They are, and always have been my biggest fans! Even when I decided to pursue my English and Journalism degree, they never flinched. They have always pushed me to follow whatever makes me happy!
3. The first night Brandon and I sang together as SEE BALDKNOBBERS, PAGE 9C
Left to right: Shane VanCamp, Brandon Mabe, Megan Mabe, Ashley Dawn (Photo by Luanna Fullerton)
Special guests at Hollister Area Chamber of Commerce Luncheon
PHOTOS BY GEORGE KURLAND
The Hollister Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon/meeting held November 14 at the Keeter Center featured special guests.
John Hagey, HACC Executive Director, intro-
duced his special guest, the Grinch, to the audience, but only heard a “Bah, Humbug!” response. Under the direction of Rebecca Pickens, fourth and fifth graders in the Hollister Cub Choirperformed the National
Anthem and other patriotic songs for luncheon attendees. Hollister School District’s Teacher of the Month for November, John Torres, English Language Learner (ELL), was recognized during the luncheon.
Beaver Lake, Eureka Springs in top five trending destinations
Submitted to Branson Globe Beaver Lake, AR, ranked as the No. 1 top trending destination with a 194% increase in year-on-year searches and a median nightly vacation home price of $383. Additionally, the neighboring town of Eureka Springs, AR, ranked No. 4 with a 103% increase in year-on-year searches, with a median nightly vacation home price of $217 – the most affordable on this list!
“Marking the start of the holiday season, Thanksgiving will continue to be a high-traffic travel period in 2024. We identified a notable rise in overall Thanksgiving-related searches, as destinations across Arkansas, Indiana and Oregon climbed to the top of the trending list with the largest year-on-year increases in interest among vacationers,” said Eleanor Moody, Travel Expert and Spokesperson at HomeToGo.
Rural retreats: Looking at the average across all states, 83% of U.S. travelers are looking for stays in rural destinations. Vacationers from Arkansas are aiming almost unanimously for countryside stays, with 94% of searches being for breaks away from big towns and cities.
SMAC will host new exhibit ‘Reaping Havoc’
BY LYNNETTE HORN
In their upcoming art exhibit, Southern Missouri Arts Connection (SMAC) will be featuring the work of artist Livia Xandersmith, an adjunct professor at Washington University in St. Louis. Her solo exhibit, “Reaping Havoc,” will run from December 6-28 at the SMAC Art Center gallery on historic Downing Street in Hollister. Xandersmith’s work explores dread and
anxiety over what is happening in the world.
“I’ve been working on this body of work since the pandemic,” she said. While her work is mostly realistic, she turned to surrealism to express the theme of this exhibit.
An opening night reception will be held Friday, December 6, 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 non-profit organizations that serves 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 thousands 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.
Sonnenfelt honored with NREDA President’s Award
Submitted to Branson Globe
Devin Sonnenfelt, senior business development specialist with White River Valley Electric Cooperative, was presented with the National Rural Economic Developers Association (NREDA) 2024 President’s Award.
The NREDA President’s Award recognizes outstanding commitment to the NREDA organization and rural economic development.
Brittany Dickey, NREDA President, presented the award at the association’s 2024 NREDA Annual Conference in Omaha, Nebraska, with more than 200 in attendance.
Dickey noted the following
regarding Sonnenfelt’s selection as this year’s recipient:
“There are so many individuals that I could have picked for this award, however, one individual stood out for their contributions to NREDA this year, and I wanted to make sure that they received the recognition that they so deserved. Devin hosted the NREDA regional event this year held in Republic, Missouri, in April. Not only did she host the event, she helped to organize the speakers, venue, tour, food and sponsorships. Without her willingness to step up and coordinate this event, it would not have been possible. The event was a huge success!”
White River Valley Electric Cooperative’s Vice President and Chief Growth Officer, Cassie Cunningham said, “Devin has a strong commitment to growing our
participating organizations, our Cooperative, and the communities we serve. She is a valuable asset and we are proud to have her on the team.”
ABOVE: Santa and Dancer can be seen at the Reindeer Stable on 76 Country Boulevard, just east of Apple Tree Mall and Applebee’s. BE-
LOW: The men and women at Branson Fire Station No. 1 decorated this Kansas City Chiefs Christmas Tree in front of their fire station, located at 1103 West 76 Country Boulevard (Photos by K.D. Michaels)
Sonnenfelt (Photo submitted)
BY CHEF JEFF WOODWARD,
The Rogue Chef TIME: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 (8-ounce) Duck
Breasts
• 2 tsp Salt, divided
Apricot Chutney Duck Breast
• 1 tsp Chinese Five Spice
• 1 Small Yellow Onion, minced
• 2 Cloves Garlic, minced
1 T Ginger, minced
• ¼ C Orange Juice
½ C Chicken Broth
1 T Brown Sugar
• 1 C Apricots, dried, roughly chopped
• ½ C Cherries, dried
1 T Orange Zest
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Preheat your oven to 450°F.
2. Score the fat side of the duck breasts in a crosshatch pattern, with a sharp knife.
3. Sprinkle ½ tsp of salt
Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake Dessert
RECIPE CREATED BY JODY
JOHNSON GODFREY
This is a delicious, but rich, 3-in-1 dessert that is a combination of pumpkin pie, cheesecake and pecan pie on a graham cracker or regular pie crust.
Use a 9 x 13 baking pan.
1. Bottom layer/crust: graham cracker crust or conventional pie crust.
GRAHAM CRACKER CRUST RECIPE FOR 9x13 PAN IS BELOW.
2. Pumpkin pie layer is next: Mix your pumpkin pie mixture, pour onto bottom layer/ crust and bake until it’s done. RECIPE AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING AND BAKING PUMPKIN PIE ARE BELOW. After pumpkin pie is baked, cool completely at room temperature.
3. Cheesecake mixture is next layer: Prepare one small box of instant Jello cheesecake pudding mix according to directions. Do not chill. Spread Jello cheesecake mixture over cooled pumpkin pie mixture.
4. Pecan pie is top layer: Recipe for pecan pie is on Dark Karo Syrup label or see RECIPE AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR PECAN PIE RECIPE BELOW. Spread cooled pecan pie mixture on top of cheesecake mixture, then add crushed or pecan halves on top.
5. Let cool in refrigerator for two to three hours before serving. Enjoy! Graham cracker crust recipe for 9x13 pan INGREDIENTS
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (takes approximately 14-16 rectangular crackers)
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 cup sugar
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Crush crackers with food processor/blender, or use a Ziploc bag and a rolling pin.
2. Melt butter.
3. Combine graham crackers with sugar and melted butter in a medium mixing bowl. Mix until all crumbs are moist, and butter is evenly mixed through with the graham cracker mixture.
4. Pour graham cracker mixture into 9x13 pan, spread evenly and pack lightly (using the bottom of a measuring cup works well).
***
Five-ingredient pumpkin pie recipe
Whether you are a novice pie maker or an experienced baker, this no fuss pie takes minimal effort but makes an impressive homemade pumpkin pie.
INGREDIENTS
Two (9-inch) refrigerated pie crusts (store bought) – or make homemade pie crust of your choice, enough to fit bottom of 9x13 inch pan*
1 (15 oz.) can pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
2 large eggs
• 2 1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice** 1/4 tsp. salt
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. Thaw store-bought chilled pie crusts accord-
on the scored fat side.
4. Rub Chinese five spice on the meat side of the duck breasts.
5. Heat a skillet until very hot and sear the fat side of the duck breasts for 4 minutes without moving them.
6. Turn the duck breasts over to sear the meat side for 2 minutes.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 3 minutes to achieve medium-rare doneness.
8. Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the duck
ing to package directions, unroll and fit into baking pan. The crusts will overlap in the middle of the pan. If using homemade pie crust, fit it into baking pan.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin, sweetened condensed milk (scrape in any excess from can), eggs, pumpkin pie spice and salt until well blended.
4. Pour mixture evenly over pie crust or graham cracker crust.
5. Place baking pan in oven and bake on lowest rack in preheated oven for 15 minutes. Leave in oven, reduce temperature to 350 degrees, and continue to bake until pie is nearly set (filling no longer jiggles when moved and knife inserted in middle comes out clean), about 35 to 40 minutes.
6. Remove from oven.
7. Transfer to a wire rack
breasts to a plate to rest for 10 minutes.
9. Discard all but one tablespoon of duck fat from the skillet.
10. Add minced onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet with the reserved duck fat and sauté over medium heat until the onions are soft, about 4 minutes.
11. Pour in the orange juice and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.
12. Add the remaining salt, dried apricots, dried cherries, and orange
zest.
13. Cook on medium low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
14. Slice the rested duck breasts at an angle into ¼-inch slices.
15. Serve the sliced duck with the chutney drizzled over the top. GO ROGUE by replacing the apricots with sour cherries and pears.
Want Chef Jeff to make this delicious meal for you? Contact him at www. TheRogueChefBranson. com .
and let pie cool at least two hours.
*If using homemade or store-bought pie crust instead of graham cracker crust, pre-bake pie crust at 350 degrees for 20 minutes because pie crust is likely to be soggy if not partially baked before adding the filling.
**You may also use a blend of spices in place of pumpkin pie spice. Use 1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon, 1/2 tsp. nutmeg, 1/4 tsp. ginger and 1/4 tsp. cloves ***
Karo Syrup Pecan Pie
This Dark Karo Syrup pecan pie is the classic pecan pie recipe. NOTE: The pecan pie will not have a crust.
INGREDIENTS
3 large eggs
• 1 cup dark Karo corn syrup
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups whole pecans
It’s hard to imagine Thanksgiving without pumpkin!
COMPILED BY JANET
STEINKAMP, Editor
• The Wampanoag Native American tribe introduced pumpkins to English pilgrims at Plymouth. The tribe brought pumpkins as gifts to Plymouth colonists and showed them many ways to use pumpkins. Pumpkins have been a part of Thanksgiving celebrations since the first Thanksgiving in America. Pumpkin was also associated with celebrating a successful harvest.
• The first pumpkin pies, including those of our Pil-
grim Fathers during the three-day harvest celebration in 1621, had no crusts.
In 1863, Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday, in spite of Confederate protests that it was a move to impose Yankee traditions on the south, where a sweet potato pie was the tradition.
Pumpkin is an international symbol of harvest time.
The world’s largest pumpkin pie was made on September 25, 2010,
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mix the eggs, dark corn syrup, sugar, melted butter and vanilla until thoroughly combined. Add the pecans and stir.
3. Bake pecan pie mixture in a separate elongated baking dish and check after 30-40 min. Pie is done when center of pie reaches 200 degrees as measured with instant read thermometer. After filling is partially cooled, spread it on top of the cooled cheesecake layer.
4. Add crushed pecans on top.
5. Let cool in refrigerator for two to three hours before serving.
in New Bremen, Ohio, during the New Bremen Pumpkinfest. The pie consisted of 1,212 pounds of canned pumpkin, 109 gallons of evaporated milk, 2,796 eggs, seven pounds of salt, 14.5 pounds of cinnamon, and 525 pounds of sugar. The pie weighed 3,699 pounds and measured 20 feet in diameter.
• The Pumpkin Capital of the World is Morton, Illinois, the state that grows the most pumpkins, harvesting about 12,300 acres annually. The latest U.S. record (2019) for the largest pumpkin ever grown weighed 2,517.5 pounds in Clarence Center, New York.
Source: insidethevatican. com | Mother Martha
husband and wife. To hear him announce me as Megan Mabe, his wife, was a really special moment. To do what you love with the person you love most in the world is truly a blessing. Recognizing my own fairytale coming true was certainly a moment I’ll carry forever.
4. I aim to never let a show go by without blessing someone. Our job allows us to give our audience members joy, happiness and a momentary relief from life’s troubles. It allows us to share the gospel, sometimes with folks who are hearing God’s word for the first time. I am determined to always use the ability God gave me to continue spreading his love and making the world a better, brighter place!
5. When I first came to Branson, I started singing for the Shoji Tabuchi Show. It was an amazing experience, and as a green Iowa gal, I learned a TON! During one performance, we had a bunch of pyrotechnics going off behind us for the final patriotic number. One misfired into my skirt, and I literally started on fire. Luckily, my skirt had multiple layers. I was put out with a fire extinguisher,
up and repair to the rails, the engine was reset and headed onward arriving in Cotter.
Another massive rock slide would occur preventing both trains from leaving Cotter, so all passengers were crowded into the Tremain Hotel and on Monday morning January 22, train 207 was finally bound northward for Carthage.
The blizzard conditions brought measurable snow; drifts were several feet
and the skirt stood as a testament to why we had the rule - “NO HAIRSPRAY BEFORE THE FINALE!”
Ashley Dawn
1. I’m from Buffalo, MO. I moved to Branson in 2017.
2. I started singing in church, my dad was the pastor, and my mom was the piano player. I just loved music and singing, so it came to me naturally. My parents helped to cultivate my talent and dedication to music. I remember watching CMT as a kid and I wanted to be on there! I met Tommy Overstreet when I was nine years old. I had won a talent contest, and one of the prizes was getting to sing at Tommy Overstreet’s Opry in Warsaw, MO. He continued to invite my sister and I back to sing on his stage and eventually took us under his wing and took us to Nashville for the first time and helped us cut our first album at ten and twelve years old! So, he was a great help and influence to me in the beginning. My siblings and I eventually started a Southern Gospel trio named, “The Praters.” We toured the country doing about 200 concerts a year as teenagers.
3. A memorable moment while performing that sticks out in my mind: While singing the National Anthem at
deep. The train encountered another rock slide about a mile from Aurora with the locomotive seriously damaged and injuries to another fireman. Once a relief train was able to get to Aurora, the passengers were returned to Carthage exactly 24 hours late. Unbelievable. So out of all of this, three engines were damaged from slightly to severely and two firemen were injured. A bunch of disgruntled passengers and a massive hotel and catering bill was dealt
the PBR Rodeo, a CBS cameraman came in front of me and it was at that moment that I realized I was going to be on national TV, which made me almost mess up! Talk about PRESSURE!
4. My dream has always been to just be able to share the gift of music and talent that God gave me. Whatever that looks like, from singing on the worship team at church to singing in an arena in front of thousands. It’s what I was born to do, and I’m so thankful God has allowed me to always have a platform to do it.
5. I’ve had a few funny moments over the years! One that I sure didn’t find funny until later, but rather embarrassing at the moment, was completely blanking on the lyrics to a song and having to wait until the chorus to start singing. Sharing the stage with my best friends in Branson’s Famous Baldknobbers Show always brings about funny moments, but are mostly things only we as a cast notice. It makes performing with them all the more fun.
I don’t just sing country music, I live country life and I love it! My husband and I have a small cattle ranch. I have lots of chickens and love being outdoors. I love
with. H.D. Routzong, the editor of the Cotter Courier’ newspaper summed it all up perfectly by saying, “The inauguration of through service over the White River Route was anything but a success. Heavy rains and snow, cave-ins, a washout and what not made a sorry mess of the first trip over the line.”
Setbacks would almost always be an issue. As the years went by there would be more rock and dirt slides, flooding, burned out bridges, and so
to hunt and garden. Vocalist with the Missouri National Guard’s 135th Army Band.
Shane VanCamp
1. I am from Nashville AR, by the way of Nashville, TN. I have been here for eight years now.
2. I’ve always loved music for as long as I can remember, but once I met Glen Campbell, I knew for sure that’s what I wanted to do.
3. Getting to sing with big celebrities such as Mickey Gilley and so forth.
4. I’m basically living my dream. And, I just hope to continue to be blessed by getting the opportunity to share the stage with such talented people.
5. Gosh, I can’t name just one. Whether it’s accidentally dropping my microphone in the middle of my song, or falling down the
on. Once in a while there would be labor problems. In 1949, there was a system-wide strike that lasted 45 days.
Passenger service on the line would survive all the way to March of 1960. Times had changed in the 54 years of service. Highways and the success of automobiles by the 1930s had caused a significant drop in passenger numbers. Passenger numbers had dropped off even more in the late 1950s to the point that the railroad was operating at a loss.
stairs, or getting cracked up with the rest of the cast midsong! LOL..!
I would share that most people don’t know that I am an actor as well, and I have been on national TV.
Paul May aka “Mayham”
1. I am from a little town called Weaubleau, MO. I have been commuting into Branson from Springfield, MO, for three years now.
2. I was voted class clown in school, so I did not want to let my classmates down by not pursuing a career in entertainment.
3. I would say it is just a collection of little moments when we bring up a couple of guests on stage, and Brandon Mabe and I do an improv bit where they have to move us through a scenario that the audience gives us. You just never know
Going into 1960 the Missouri Pacific Railroad claimed a $175,000 annual deficit in running passengers on the line, so both passenger trains were dropped from service. The final day of passenger operation was set for March 21, 1960. And just like January 21, 1906, this particular March day was also cold with snow and ice from Carthage down to near Yellville, Arkansas. Historically, the train was very crowded as it was locomotive 4620 and just two passenger cars.
what you are gonna get, and it always results in hilarity.
4. I would love to be in a feature film sometime, and try out my acting chops on the big screen.
5. My wife works at a chiropractor’s office. One day I went in there with my video rolling and did something silly. I posted it on social media and it got over 4 million views. I titled it,
“Embarrassing my wife at the office!” I am now at Episode 42. LOL..!
You can follow them on social media at Branson’s Famous Baldknobbers on Facebook and Instagram. They have a website at Baldknobbers.com
You can get your tickets at The Hughes Brothers Theatre located at 3425 W. 76 Country Blvd. Call 417231-4999.
But at least it was on time and didn’t take two days! Next week I’ll give ya’ll a part three on this discussion and introduce you to the big guy over the Missouri Pacific, Mr. Jay Gould, one of the wealthiest railroad individuals and a truly legendary figure. Happy trails, everyone.
Connect with the great outdoors with the enchanting Nature at Night holiday light tour. Discover the tales of the indigenous people of the Ozarks, the rapid decline and gradual return of North American bison, and how different species work together to create a co-dependent ecosystem all while surrounded by twinkling lights and aweinspiring displays. Become illuminated with inspiration to conserve our natural world today and forever on this one-of-a-kind tour running for a limited time this season. Scan the code to purchase tickets online.
Comedy skit, left to right: Brandon Mabe, Mayham, Brandon Mabe (Photo by Luanna Fullerton)
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!
lassifieds
PUBLIC NOTICE:
The Taney County Board for the Developmentally Disabled is accepting self-nominations to fill pending vacancy on the Board of Directors. Interested persons should complete the online application found at taneycounty. org under Live: Commission Application for Board Position (SB40). Please contact Troy W. Rasmussen, Executive Director at 417-335-4135 or by mail at 1533 E. State Hwy. 76, Ste. 1, Branson, MO 65616, or email trasmussen@taneydds.com for further information.
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.
We can help you with your rent, groceries and gas. Please call to get the details 417-337-3772.
PUBLIC AUCTION
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NOTICE OF ELECTION OF TRUSTEES FOR VILLAGE OF INDIAN POINT
The Village of Indian Point is holding an election on April 8, 2025, for election of two members of the Village’s Board of Trustees. Each of the two Trustees will be elected for a two-year term. The period for filing a Declaration of Candidacy for each of the Trustee positions will open on December 10, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. – December 31, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. Candidate Election packets including the Declaration of Candidacy forms are available at the Village of Indian Point Municipal Center, 957 Indian Point Road, Branson, MO 65616 during the Village’s office hours. Completed Declarations of Candidacy forms will be accepted at the same office.
GRIEF SHARE SUPPORT GROUP: A new class for Grief Share will begin Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2024, at the Branson UMC. This is open to people from our community, surrounding areas and our own church family at BUMC. We welcome both new and returning participants. Gather at 1 p.m. for “social time” and class will begin promptly at 1:30 p.m. For questions call Peggy at 641-919-1533. All are welcome!
CELEBRATE RECOV-
ERY is a place to heal from your hurts, habits, and hangups. We meet every Monday night at 6:30 PM at Music City Centre, 1839 West 76 Country Blvd., Branson. For more information call 417–320-2055
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.
ACE HOME IMPROVEMENT
Heating and air, HVAC service and repair, doors, windows, decks, fences, pressure washing, interior and exterior painting, siding, roofing, flooring, tile and drywall. Handyman work! Call Ryan: 417-3351347.
See you there! PETS
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.
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
their DD 214
Needing a companion dog
Wanting peer-to-peer friends
Seeking professional counseling
Needing food, water or shelter
FREE ESTIMATES AND TIMELY RESPONSE. Full remodels, decks, pole barns, garages, fencing and small projects. Call 417699-1635.
COMPANION DOGS NEED A HOME –
FOR SALE: 2004 Nissan Titan with 30k miles, very clean. Was asking $16,500, drop to $12,500 for fast sell. No calls please, text if interested. Text 417-559-0715.
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.
HOME TO SELL OR ROOM TO RENT?
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TO ENSURE THE BEST RESPONSE TO YOUR AD... Please make sure your ad is correct in the first issue in which it appears. The Branson Globe is responsible for one day’s charge of the space occupied by the error. If your ad is not correct, call us immediately to have it corrected.
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 tools and transportation for three to four months of work inside. Call 417712-4115.
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On this date in history...
• 1942 U.S. Office of Price Administration rations coffee for everyone, 10 pounds a year
1944 Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore performs first open heart surgery
1952 President-elect Eisenhower visits Korea to assess war
• 1963 President Lyndon B. Johnson sets up the Warren Commission to investigate the assassina-
tion of President John F. Kennedy 1964 Roman Catholic Church in U.S. replaces Latin with English
• 1975 President Gerald Ford signs Education for All Handicapped Children Act requiring states provide free education for children with a disability 1991 Dust storm in California’s San Joaquin Valley results in massive vehicle ac-
cident on Interstate 5 involving 93 cars and 11 trucks; 17 die and 150 injured
• 1995 President Bill Clinton lifts ban on exports of oil from Alaskan North Slope; ban was imposed after oil embargo by Arab oil producers in 1973 2022 For the first time fewer than half of people in England and Wales call themselves Christians according to the 2021 Census
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