Branson Globe, September 29, 2023

2023 Lieutenant Governor Senior Service award presented

Travel industry to induct Peter Herschend into Hall of Leaders

Submitted to Branson Globe

Peter Herschend will be honored as a 2023 inductee into the U.S. Travel Association Hall of Leaders, joining past prestigious honorees such as Walt Disney and J.W. Marriot Jr.

Distinguished individuals are named to U.S. Travel’s Hall of Leaders for “sustained, noteworthy contributions” that positively impact the travel industry and raise industrywide standards.

Herschend and his brother Jack, along with their family and employees, grew a small cave tour in Branson, MO, into the internationally acclaimed Silver Dollar City®. More than 70 years later, the company, known today as Herschend Enterprises, is widely recognized as the world’s largest family-owned themed attractions company. Its 12,000-plus employees collectively entertain 15 million annual guests at more than two dozen entertainment brands across North America, including Dollywood, Silver Dollar City, the Harlem Globetrotters and many other beloved family attractions.

Herschend is an advocate for tourism development across the United States and was an early proponent of

Coping with trauma in Maui

what would become Brand USA, helping inform Senate leaders of the critical need to create and fund a national-level program to promote U.S. destinations.

He is also a steward of his community, taking an active role in improving transportation systems, advancing environmental issues and shaping public education in Missouri.

Herschend was instrumental in the development of key infrastructure projects, which improved access to major tourism sites across Missouri.

He also founded the Ozarks Water Watch and the Upper White River Basin Foundation and has served on the Missouri Board of Education since 1991.

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer

Experiencing a natural disaster or other emergency can be intensely stressful long after the immediate danger is past. People may feel grief or anger over the loss of property and livelihood, have ongoing consequences from physical injury, or feel overwhelming sadness when thinking of loved ones who did not survive. Moving forward from such shock and trauma takes some compassionate support, and Red Cross Disaster Mental Health volunteers make a huge contribution by helping provide that support.

Walter Roberts of Branson is one of those vol-

unteers. From August 24 to September 11, Roberts served in Maui, following the devastating wildfires. He was part of a team of 36 volunteers from the Red Cross Missouri/Arkansas region, including six from southwest Missouri.

For Roberts, becoming a Red Cross Mental Health volunteer was a natural extension of his training and career. A licensed professional counselor with a doctorate in mental health, Roberts began volunteering in 2005, in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, while teaching in the counseling field in Minnesota. In addition to his education and experience, Roberts completed additional coursework

and specialized Red Cross training for serving in disaster areas. He has continued to volunteer with the Mo/ Ark region since relocating to Branson.

Red Cross volunteers are a community of responders who collaborate following disasters. The Red Cross is often involved on a local level with situations such as home fires, but large-scale disasters require cooperation on regional and national levels to incorporate medical, mental health, and spiritual components, along with meeting immediate practical needs for food, shelter and drinking water. Approximately 3,000 compassionate mental health

Jim Babcock received the 2023 Lt. Governor’s Senior Award from Lt. Governor Mike Kehoe for his service to the Branson community. The Babcocks are curators of the Branson Centennial Museum. Pictured are Jim and Jean Babcock and Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe. SEE THE FULL STORY NEXT WEEK. (Photo by Rob Doherty)

Walter Roberts consults with a Red Cross volunteer. (Photo courtesy Walter Roberts)

Peter Herschend (Special to Branson Globe)

New Merriam Woods Mayor looking ahead to brighter days

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

Merriam Woods has a new mayor.

Rick Hundley was appointed mayor at a recent Merriam Woods City Council meeting.

Previous Merriam Woods Mayor Rusty Ault resigned just days earlier, citing medical issues as the reason for leaving his leadership position.

In a statement this week on the Merriam Woods Facebook Page, Mayor Hundley thanked those who supported him in his endeavor to become mayor.

“Your continued support means the world to me,” said Hundley, in his written statement. “We have a long way to go, but we can get there if we all work together. I will be working closely with all of our city employees to ensure the city continues to move forward. I want to hear from you. You can always reach out to me on Facebook, by email

Continued from page 1A

professionals volunteer their skills and training to foster positive culture in shelters, listen for victims who need to verbally process the experience, and watch for signs of extreme traumatic stress in people who may have completely shut down.

Several factors combined to make Maui one of the

Octoberfest coming to downtown Branson

BY

K.D.

MICHAELS, Staff Writer

at gatorhundley@gmail. com or by calling my cell phone. It’s going to take all of us working together to make a brighter future for Merriam Woods.”

Hundley noted that he was planning to initiate a program that would recognize both “Good Neighbors” and “Employees of the Month,” stating the importance of acknowledging those who go above and beyond in their service to the community.

Hundley continued, “It’s a new day and a new chapter in the life of Merriam Woods. We’re not going to dwell on the past, but instead look forward to the future and better days ahead. All of this is going to take hard work, but together we can and will do it.”

Sheila Karges served as interim mayor between Ault resigning and Hundley being appointed mayor.

most difficult assignments

Roberts has ever been on. Devastation was widespread, quickly wiping out communities, and it hit suddenly; as Hawaii Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke stated in a news conference, “The fires seemed to ignite out of nowhere.”

“It was so large and so sudden,” said Roberts, who met people whose stories included finding that escape routes were confusing or cut

Downtown Branson will soon celebrate Octoberfest in a big way!

Lightning Pawn and Music presents a special Octoberfest Concert in Liberty Plaza, featuring a variety of Branson talent. The lineup

includes Paul Winchester and the Dave Barton Band, Michelle Sevryn, and Darrell Croy. Also appearing will be two new artists, Terrible Terrence and Ivie Blake.

The evening will include food, vendors, games, raf-

fles, classic cars and lots of fall fun. Santa and Mrs. Claus are also slated to make an appearance.

Sponsored by Lighting Pawn and Music, Waxy O’Shea’s, Imallin110.com, Sunfest Market and the Downtown Branson Better-

ment Association, the Octoberfest celebration is set for Saturday, October 7, from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Liberty Plaza in downtown Branson, at 221 US 65. For more information, visit www.downtownbranson.org.

Branson Christian Church ‘Cram the Van’ to collect food for Christian Action Ministries

Submitted to Branson Globe

On Saturday, October 7, from 9 a.m. to noon, the youth of Branson Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in conjunction with Christian Action Ministries (CAM) invite the community to their challenge to “Cram the Van.” A drive-thru food collection drive will be held at Liberty Plaza at 114 W. Pacific Street in Historic Downtown Branson to collect food for families in Taney and Stone counties. Items most needed are food, diapers, personal hygiene, paper goods and laundry detergent. Come out to help your neighbors in need!

off. Some escaped by mere seconds as people right behind them remained trapped in vehicles; some jumped into the ocean to escape the flames, but then found themselves overwhelmed by the wind-blown smoke and the high waves. Many felt “survivor’s guilt” at having escaped while losing track of loved ones, and with infrastructure heavily damaged, it took several days for com-

Branson Christian Church, as one of the founding members of CAM, has been instrumental in helping CAM combat food insecurity in Taney County since its founding in 1984. Branson Christian Church members served on the CAM leadership team and provided CAM with items and monetary donations since its inception. Last year, CAM provided more than 40,000 individual cases of assistance, and distributed nearly 500,000 meals and over 2,000,000 pounds of food through three distribution centers and more than 20 mobile monthly grocery

munication to be established between shelters. Roberts’ duties included daily staff meetings with other volunteers for assignments, then checking on eight shelter hotels. Mental health professionals are a smaller pool to pull from than some other volunteers, with about 3,000 nationwide, and of course not all are able to leave their regular jobs and home duties at the

distribution events.

In June 2023, CAM added three monthly mobile distribution events in Stone County when Christian Associates refocused their mission. The increase in numbers of people needing help with food insecurity throughout Taney County and the new outreach to Stone County has put increased demands on CAM’s resources.

The youth of Branson Christian Church participate in various community outreach activities, including volunteering at CAM to help sort and distribute food. Branson Christian Church,

same time; a maximum of 15 were on hand in Maui for the duration of Roberts’ stay.

“The goal is to help people get back on their feet and on the road to recovery,” he said. “We try to create a sense of safety by truly listening to what people have to say, and then help them focus on the present and identify coping mechanisms they can use.”

His guidelines include being kind, having a sense of humility (“on any given day, that could suddenly be me in their position”), and being respectful to each person as an individual. “We try to create opportunities for people to be the best self they can possibly be in such circumstances,” he said. “We help them find the puzzle pieces they still have left to work with.”

Mental health volunteers may also need to assist other volunteers, who can find themselves hearing gut-level sharing of difficult emotions as survivors process them with whomever is available at the moment.

at the corner of Commercial and College Streets, is the oldest congregation in its original location in Branson. Residents and visitors are invited to find out more at www.bransonchristianchurch.com and join Sunday services at 10:30 where Holy Communion is served by the deacons every week.

In 2024, Branson Christian Church will celebrate its 100th anniversary.

To find out more about Christian Action Ministries, located at 2400 State Highway 165 in Branson, call 417-334-1157 or visit www. christianactionministries. org.

Mental health professionals are trained to expect hearing traumatic details as part of their jobs, but some volunteers may have trouble dealing with it. There is mutual respect among Red Cross volunteers, as well as between the Red Cross and other organizations such as Springfield-based Convoy of Hope and medical or spiritual care providers, and everyone watches for referrals that need to be made.

Even though disaster response volunteering is not easy work, Roberts encourages other people to consider doing it. Need is high for mental health professionals, nurses and spiritual care providers, but any skill set can be helpful, including construction trades and food service experience. Those who can’t go physically may wish to give financially; there is huge expense involved in disaster relief, and donations allow volunteers to do what they do. To get involved, visit www.redcross.org.

• MAUI

We’ve lost him again! Help us find Al the Allosaurus

We’ve lost Al again, in the pages of this issue of the Branson Globe! Can you help us find him? This week, the first

THREE readers to email us and let us know where Al is hiding will receive a free consultation with Taney

County Fitness. When you find Al, email us at info@ bransonglobe.com and let us know where you spotted him.

Go to BransonGlobe.com/ al-the-allosaurus to see winners and prizes. You know, Al could use

some help from Taney County Fitness himself. He’s kind of becoming a couch-osaurus!

...not all newspapers are dinosaurs.

Still several weeks left: Area Farmers Markets continue into fall

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff

Writer Area residents who enjoy a weekly stop at one or more Farmers Markets may be sad to see the market season winding down, but don’t worry: There are still several weeks left to pick up some later-season produce, treat yourself to cookies or cinnamon rolls, or stock up with meat from your favorite vendors. It’s also a great time to do some early Christmas shopping for handmade crafts and other specialty items!

Hollister Farmers Market, located at 108 Chad Lane just east of the stoplight in downtown Hollister, will be open through Tues-

day, October 31. Market is open from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays, except for October 14 when shoppers will find several of the regular market vendors at the Grape & Fall Festival on Downing Street in Hollister. In addition to the produce booth, local jams and jellies, honey, and baked goods, you’ll find handcrafted items that make great gifts; fresh seafood from Shrimply Delicious; some good coffee; and even a coin collector to chat and trade with. Check the Facebook Live on market days for each week’s highlights.

Just around the round-

about, you’ll find the Branson Landing location of Farmers Market of the Ozarks. Now in their seventh year in Branson, the market management reminds shoppers they are invested in the local food scene by doubling food stamps, accepting WIC and senior citizens vouchers.

Local vendor highlights include McKenna Farm, Elijah’s Raw Herbs, and Sisters at Home (the cracker seasoning packets are amazing).

You’ll also find fall mums, handmade candles, baked goods, honey, and much more, and gift tokens make a good gift idea as well. The Branson Landing market is also open 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.,

Tuesdays, through October 31.

Handy to shoppers farther east in Taney County—or well worth the short drive for those who aren’t—is the Forsyth MO Local Harvest Farmers Market, at 11048 E. St. Hwy. 76 in Forsyth. One of the largest markets in the Tri-Lakes area, the market hosts vendors of delicious locally-produced meats, baked goods including some amazing sourdough breads, handmade jewelry, custom woodworking, and so much more.

The Forsyth Local Harvest Market also has a slightly longer season— shop from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Local CWA chapter meets for prayer, action updates

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff

Writer

The Taney County Prayer/ Action Chapter of Concerned Women for America (Missouri) gathered for their regular meeting on Septem-

• HERSCHEND

Continued from page 1A

“Peter is a true champion of Missouri who always works to do right by our state and people. Whenever our state is in need, he puts politics aside and always comes to the table with ideas, optimism and a level of persistence that is rarely seen in others,” said Missouri Governor Michael L. Parson. “Peter’s family has

ber 19, at Covenant Life Church, 120 N. 3rd St. in downtown Branson. Chapter leader and Area Director Haven Howard shared a report from the recent Concerned Women for

prospered thanks to his deep faith and plain-spoken wisdom, and in turn, our state has prospered thanks to his vision, patience and support for good people and causes.”

Herschend will be honored alongside Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO of Destination DC. Roger Dow, former president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, was the 2022 U.S. Travel Hall of Leaders honoree.

America Summit, “Strong & Steadfast,” in Washington, D.C., which she attended with State Director Tracy Dougan and others from Missouri. Open to all CWA members and not just

Ferguson, Herschend and Dow will be honored by the U.S. Travel board of direc-

September 29th is World Heart Day

those holding leadership positions, the summit was well-attended, including a strong representation from Young Women of America, CWA’s sister organization

tors at a dinner on November 15, 2023, in Washington, DC.

Saturdays through the second week in December.

Be sure to check out the Fall Festival on Saturday, October 21, for a fun family day enjoying hayrides, kids’ games, live music, and a chili cook-off with cash prizes and trophies! This is a great time to shop the awe-

Tri-Lakes

some vendors for Christmas gifts. Call 417-844-2113 for festival booth information or to pre-register for the chili cook-off. Support your local farmers, nonprofits and small businesses by taking advantage of these great opportunities. Happy fall shopping!

https://www.who.int

Every year world Heart Day on September 29th strives to increase awareness of cardiovascular disease, including how to prevent it. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the world.

ASH. Male, DOB 5-13-2018. Ash is the sweetest boy; he loves being pet and brushed. He is mellow, quiet and gentle. He would love to meet you! He is FIV positive which means he can live a long, healthy life but should be an inside cat and an only cat or live in a home with other FIV cats. As a long-term resident, his adoption fee is discounted to $42.50!

JOEL. Male, Labrador Retriever, DOB 2-21-2018. This adorable guy is just as sweet as pie. He is good with kids and other animals. He is full of energy and loves to play catch! Come by the shelter and get to know this handsome boy. As a long-term resident, his adoption fee is discounted to $50!

pinion

First Amendment to the United States Constitution

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishement of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

ROB DOHERTY

Publisher (504) 583-8907 robd@bransonglobe.com

JANET STEINKAMP Editor editor@bransonglobe.com

GARY J. GROMAN

Independent Journalist

KIM CHAPPELL Ad Designer gabbydor210@gmail.com

PATTY DOERPINGHAUS

Stone Co. Account Rep. (530) 739-5560 pattyd.ads@gmail.com

MARK FEDER Taney Co. Account Rep. (805) 320-3746 shotgunart@yahoo.com

JOHN FULLERTON Area Historian

TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer tiffanykgravett@gmail.com

KAREN HALFPOP Digital/Production Mgr. production@bransonglobe. com

K.D. MICHAELS Staff Writer kdmichaelsbranson1@ gmail.com

LINDA PAGE Entertainment Writer lpage65@centurytel.net

CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer cjthomas74@yahoo.com www.cynthiajthomas.com

DARYL WEATHER Weather Forecaster bransonwx@gmail.com

EDITORIAL POLICY:

The comments on opinion pages are the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily those of the Branson Globe, or its staff. Have something to say? Share it with us in your own Letter to the Editor. Letters to the editor sent via e-mail and fewer than 400 words are given preference. Published or unpublished letters become the property of the newspaper and will not be returned. All letters must include, name, address, and verifiable phone number. The editors may refuse publication of any letter that is libelous, in poor taste, or that endorses a business or product. Letters are subject to editing.

Looking for Dave Ramsey’s “Dave Says...” and Stock Market Insights? You’ll find them in our new business section, page 2C. Do no harm: ‘If it ain’t broke don’t fix it’

son/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce & CVB, made a presentation on the marketing plan and budget for 2024. She also showed and explained the things that align the marketing with the “faith, family, flag and fun” factors the Board had expressed concern over.

BY GARY J. GROMAN a.k.a. The Ole Seagull

Do no harm. Except for engineers, most people subscribe to the adage, “If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it.” Engineers might be an exception, believing that “If it isn’t broken it doesn’t have enough features yet.” Let’s hope that’s not what the Branson Board of Aldermen has in mind.

In a Study Session with the Branson Board of Aldermen (Board) on September 26, 2023, Rachel Wood, Chief Marketing Officer, Bran-

The 2024 Plan is the second year of a three-year campaign. A campaign that appears to be anything but “broken.” As of the July Branson City Tourism Tax Receipt Report, year to date, across the Board, with a slight hiccup for Amusements in 2022, there is a three-year trend of increasing tax revenues across all reporting business sectors. A plan resulting in a near-record number of visitors and tax receipts for Branson.

After presenting the 2024 Plan and Budget, she showed clips and made a presentation addressing the concerns the

Reflections:

buy, and pretty much rules the household.

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer

One day last week, my daughter’s cat thought his owner-parent-servants had really dropped the ball. Several years ago, my daughter and son-in-law found the squeaking, hungry ball of matted yellow fur in their backyard and took him in. Now, Kitty (short for a much longer, fancier name) accompanies them on vacation, has the best food and toys money can

Which is why he was terribly confused when his mom and dad went to bed without feeding him, in spite of his loud complaints. Then, there was no sand in his litter box when he needed to use it during the night, forcing him to urinate on hard plastic and poop on a throw rug. At 5 a.m., when my daughter got up for a drink of water and to set the coffee timer, Kitty again stood desperately yowling by his food dish to tell her he had already missed one meal and it was almost time for another, but she ignored his pleas.

What Kitty did not know, though, was that he had an appointment at the veterinarian for surgery to remove a lump under his skin. It had been

Board had about “faith, family, flag and fun” being included in the marketing. Various members of the Board had praise for what had been done. Wood said that the meetings City Administrator Cathy Stepp has had with her and Jonas Arjes, Interim President/CEO of the CVB, have been a great help in resolving the Board’s marketing concerns.

One area of concern was the expenditure of marketing funds spent advertising things that don’t directly bring in Tourism Tax Revenues for marketing. The lead example was an article entitled “Eight Things to Do for a Fabulous Fall Day in Branson” on Explore Branson at https://www.explorebranson. com/article/eight-things-todo-fabulous-fall-day-branson. The concern was marketing designed to bring people to Branson for activities such as

“Leaf-Peeping,” fishing, and other things that no city tourism tax directly applies to.

Arjes pointed out that the primary purpose of the marketing is to attract people to come to Branson. The things included in the article involve proven SEO and other factors designed to do just that. He also points out that there is an excellent chance they will stay and eat in Branson once they are here—59% of all the city’s Tourism Tax revenues come from Lodging, Campgrounds, Nightly Rentals, and Restaurants and Concessions. The July 2023 City Tourism Tax Report indicates that the other 41% of revenues comes from Theatres, 20%, and Amusements, 21%.

To an Ole Seagull, Branson will not get $1 of Tourism Tax unless someone comes to Branson. When they get here,

regardless of why they came, if they stay and eat in Branson, they will contribute part of the 59% of the Tourism Tax receipts. Chances are fishermen or leaf-peepers, etc., will also shop in Branson, paying the 1% Tourism Community Enhancement District marketing tax and go to shows and amusements when not fishing or leaf-peeping.

“But Seagull, why do you even mention this? “Because the Board did. In an Ole Seagull’s gut, he senses the possibility of a “feature” being added to something that is not broken so that it can be fixed.” “Seagull, could you be wrong?” “Absolutely. He hopes he is and is thankful for the increasing number of people coming to Branson and increased Tourism Tax receipts. His prayer is, ‘Do no harm. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’”

Even when I don’t see it

annoying him slightly, but the doctor was also concerned it might mean something more serious, and the procedure was the best way to make sure. As with human surgeries, Kitty was not supposed to eat or drink for a certain time prior, and a urine sample was also needed. Since most cats don’t take kindly to peeing in a cup, collecting the liquid from clean hard plastic with a squeeze dropper, rather than filling the box with kitty litter, was about the only way.

After Kitty’s miserable night and morning, they headed to the vet, where the procedure went smoothly and the annoyance and worry were eliminated.

I laughed as I read my daughter’s text of the story, but I also realized I sometimes react just like Kitty

if things don’t go as I think they should. I can recall times when I didn’t understand something going on, but it later turned out for good. For example, after my dad fell, I was really angry at an unsympathetic supervisor who refused to discuss adjusting my schedule so I could spend more time with him, but the resulting decision to freelance turned out to be enjoyable, with the flexibility I needed—even more valuable when grandkids came along. My cancer journey was certainly not what I planned—wouldn’t miraculous healing have made a great story? While some people do receive that, I didn’t; but the route God allowed has given me empathy and opportunities to pray with others going

Been Thinkin’ About... Dust devil omens

now-expected touches of bittersweet grief. Since 2017, festival preparation takes up a good six months of my year. Afterwards, there is a weird twilight of something akin to sadness.

BY JOSHUA HESTON StateoftheOzarks Media & Design

Another StateoftheOzarks

Fest is in the books, the now-seventh annual festival a bit of immutable Ozarks history. The day was a success, a testimony to the resilience of the Ozark people’s spirit — traditional and contemporary — and perhaps a reminder of my own special kind of madness. Normal people don’t do the things I do. The result was the largest festival we have created to date with an estimated 7,000 people walking Downing Street in the scant eight hours of the event. A week later, rest is coming in small steps along with the

Time turns on the wheel of the year. The autumnal equinox was early yesterday morning. Modern autumn — post-Instagram — is a weird, pumpkin-spice-enfrothed thing. Fortunately, beneath the superficial brand products posing as inherited personalities, there is the real autumn, the one that gives us pause to contemplate the passing of the year as well as the passing of our lives.

Decay is inevitable, but decay doesn’t have to not be beautiful. The 20th century taught us — erroneously — that youth should be preserved, that growing older is to be feared, disguised, avoided. I’m sure that marketing decision resulted in

From our readers...

Thank you so very much for your nice article and photo about the Blessing of the Animals and also for putting it into the Around Town column.

Another huge thank you: For 12 years of the 30 we have lived in the Branson area

I wrote a “Pet of the Week”

column for the local Branson Daily paper, the Stone County Gazette and the Newsleader with photos of Andy Williams, Tony Orlando, Wayne Newton, Platters and just about every star in town who knew the advertising value of a photo of them holding an orphaned puppy or kitten up

some fat paychecks to some now-dead advertising executives but that decision hasn’t made our lives better. Age is meant to be embraced, a fact with which I still sometimes struggle as my beard has gone gray.

“Just dye it,” I have heard and am not too proud to say the thought hasn’t crossed my mind. And yet I hesitate. I’m not young anymore. Why pretend to be something I am not?

Seven years ago, I was a different man. Seven years from now, God willing, I will be a different man again. The introspection is sobering. Time changes so much. However, somewhere in the line between memory and lore, there is a place out of time. Perhaps that is why we love the old stories so. Seven years ago, as afternoon waned on our first festival, I was asked to be interviewed on camera. I’ve never seen the vid-

for adoption. (Those animals were almost always adopted the following week.)

I have in the past 30 years seen newspapers come and go and it has been a sad thing to watch. So…congratulations on the expansion and new look for the Branson Globe! What a good thing

eo, not sure if anyone else has either. It doesn’t matter. On the footage, a more fresh-faced version of me is standing on the North end of Downing Street in front of Hook & Ladder Pizza, trying to think of something cogent to say. The camera is rolling. The black gum trees flutter in a weird way and — if you were to watch the video — you would see me turn away from the camera to watch as a dust devil forms on the street directly behind me. I am in awe of the moment, child-like in the sudden profundity. The camera crew is nonplussed. Dry sycamore leaves spin and dance in brief abandon.

To those around me, the dust devil was just a thing. A bit of scientific phenomenon, easily forgotten, nothing more. I saw my first dust devil in the tilled cornfields of Illinois between Chillicothe and Edelstein. We had topped the rise and the

for our community and, honestly, the very first thing I noticed (other than the change in presentation) was how attractive and thoughtful the placement of the articles and ads are. It is like the colors, size, their visual impact, everything was taken into account when placing them in

through surgery and chemotherapy.

James 1:2–4 explains that spiritual growth comes from trials. Paul writes similarly in Romans 5:3–5 that troubles help us focus on our eternal hope.

Romans 8:28–29 assures us God uses all things, not just those that seem good at the time, to accomplish His purposes through us. A line from the worship song “Waymaker” really resonates: “Even when I don’t see it, you’re working.” If you’re going through something tough, please know God hasn’t abandoned you, and there are people who understand. Maybe the mental image of frustrated Kitty can help us remember God is at work, regardless of whether we see it.

wee tornado rose up from the field. My mom and I watched it together, watched it spin itself out before reaching the oak trees that edged the old prairie. The sun looked cold that March day, or was it August? There was timelessness there too as the earth stood still for only the two of us. There were no dust devil omens at the festival last week but it doesn’t matter. Now seven years ago, there was an omen when I least expected it, an omen that imbued that moment with a sense of ancestral blessing. More than once, I’ve gone back to that memory, gathered strength from it, gathered peace in it. As with most omens, I can’t prove to unbelievers it even meant anything. But just the same, I take the omen as good. And look forward to yet another season of magic and strength, likely in an age in which we will need it most.

the paper. I know it sounds “corny” but I told my husband that I never thought of a newspaper as “pretty to look at” until your recent changes. Who thought a newspaper could actually be called attractive?

Judy McKee Kimberling City,

MO

BY LAURI LEMKE THOMPSON, Columnist

Once my husband and I started our retirement nest egg, local financial advisers mysteriously knew about it and sought us out, eager to “handle our money.” We’d receive invitations to free meals at which they’d make their

The best investment vehicle

pitch, talking about the good returns they could get us.

We chatted with another couple at one such event, and the lady said “I have no idea what makes them think we have all this money to invest – because we don’t!”

We were similarly mystified.

As I listened to the presentations, I recalled the many things the Bible says about how we handle our finances. After thinking about it from a biblical point of view, I can now offer you a valuable insider’s tip – and it’s legal for me to give it to you! Are you ready? Here

goes: Earth’s currency will be useless in Heaven.

At those dinners, we heard much about investment vehicles: stocks, bonds, mutual funds, annuities and real estate. No matter which vehicle, their point was always for us to make a profit on the capital we would invest. Some of course carried a degree of risk.

Many vehicles sounded good, and we made use of the information, but for the Christian, building up treasures in Heaven through our giving beats all the touted investments. It’s a sure

thing, and your profits? Out of this world!

Interestingly, Jesus addresses money and possessions more than heaven and hell in His Word, the Bible. Just one example: “Don’t be afraid, you tiny flock! Your Father plans to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give the money away. Get yourselves purses that never grow old, inexhaustible treasure in Heaven, where no thief can ever reach it, or moth ruin it. For wherever your treasure is, you may be certain that your heart

will be there too!” Luke 12:32-34 (Phillips).

Generous giving does require an eternal perspective. If you struggle with that, may I suggest Randy Alcorn’s short but powerful book “The Treasure Principle.” Taking his message to heart will revolutionize you into a cheerful giver who wants to give and give.

Open-handed giving often slams against human nature which seems to urge “Make more, stash more, spend more.” It helps if you can (a) acknowledge that God owns everything

(not you) and (b) ask Him to help you resist the temptation to covet more and more possessions.

Paul wrote to the Philippians that he had learned to be content, reminding us it didn’t happen overnight.

Like Paul, we too can learn contentment – and we can learn to make abundant use of the investment vehicle called “laying up treasure in Heaven.” Because for the Christian, while we need to press forward for now, one day Heaven is where we will enjoy pleasures and rewards forevermore.

Train Up a Child: When our children ‘don’t measure up’

boys born has autism. I find it hard to believe that statistic.

What are parents to do when their child is diagnosed with one thing or another that would lead them to believe that their child does not measure up to expectations?

BY PAT LAMB Columnist

M

uch research has been done recently concerning children and problems they may be having. It has led to labeling children with attention deficit disorder, dyslexia, or other scary names. Recently there was a report on the news that one of every one hundred fifty baby

There are some basic things we can do regardless of the label put on the child. First, we should always question who set the standard by which the child is rated. Second, we need to realize that all children are of equal value. Third, we need to apply teaching techniques appropriate to a child’s needs.

It is necessary for teachers and doctors to have guidelines to follow to determine

if a child is progressing at a “normal” rate. However, we need to remember that those standards are set based on other children in the past. When a baby is born, that baby is unaware of those standards and simply acts according to nature and environment. New standards are being developed continually. God creates each child uniquely, not according to the standards previously set by those who study behavior. Quite often a child may be misdiagnosed simply because parents or teachers do not know how to help a child progress. In addition to “book standards,” unfortunately, parents often have

preconceived ideas of what they want their child to be like, and the child may fail to meet those expectations.

In God’s eyes, all children measure up in value. It should be the same with parents. Children should always measure up in the sight of their parents as long as they are trying their best. God creates each individual with a plan and purpose. Not all children are going to be good academically just as not all children will be good in sports or music. Our job, as parents, is to nurture and help a child be the best that child can be with the talents and abilities s/he has.

When a child is expected

to perform beyond his/her abilities, frustration sets in.

Teaching techniques should be chosen with consideration of the child’s abilities and accomplishments. A good rule of thumb is to find out where a child is in development, start there, and take that child as far as possible.

Well-meaning parents and teachers often insist that a child be promoted in school, when that child is not ready, in order to keep the child from feeling badly about being left behind. There is far more danger in making a child feel badly by placing that child in a situation where it is impossible to succeed. Most children can

progress if taken at the right pace, but just as a flower cannot be forced to bloom, so children cannot progress faster than they are ready. Love is the key to working with all children. Love means we are patient, kind, and don’t insist on having our own way in that we need to let the child develop as God has chosen. In God’s sight, all children are equally loved. Parents and teachers need to care equally for all children as well. There is no need to feel disappointed if a child doesn’t seem to measure up. We simply value that child as God created him/her and do the best we can to train it up as God intended.

Breakfast at Tiffany’s: God doesn’t play dirty Santa

members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. Romans 12:4-5

BY TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer

For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these

We, the church, are called to humbly give, edify, serve and admonish one another in love. Paul went on to say, “We have different gifts, according to the grace given each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophe-

sy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.” Romans 12:6-8

If you are attending a church where you have to be part of a certain clique, family, or social status to

be taken seriously in your God-given gifts as a believer, then you may need to rethink where you go. A person who is not allowed to be used in their true spiritual giftings will slowly die a spiritual death, and their church will miss out on the blessings that person has to offer. Spiritual gifts are meant for the edification of the church, and if they are being stifled, the church it-

self will lack. I’m not saying that everyone needs to be used for everything they want to do. But if you continually find yourself being ignored and turned away from offering your gifts, then you will really never be anything but a bench warmer there. That’s a sad place to be as a member of the Body of Christ. I’ve been there, and it was a lonely, confusing time for me. I

even wondered if God had deemed me unworthy of being anything more than just another face in the crowd. That couldn’t have been farther from the truth!

Just because a church building is full doesn’t mean the congregation’s hearts are full. We aren’t called simply to fill pews and offering plates. I have been in huge churches with lots of people SEE TIFFANY, PAGE 11A

Branson Police Department celebrates milestone birthday

Fundraiser supports Branson Police Department

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

The Branson Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association will be hosting a fundraiser to benefit the Branson Police Department. Funds raised from the event will go directly to the Branson Police Department for non-budgeted needs.

State Representative Brian Seitz, Branson Police Chief Eric Schmitt, City Administrator Cathy Stepp (via Facebook)

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

The Branson Police Department held a recent celebration in honor of their own birthday.

The Branson Police Department turned 110 years old, and police officers, administration and staff celebrated the momentous occasion. Officers were recognized for their hard work, commitment and dedication to the community. Mayor Larry Milton offered his sincere thanks to the officers for their hard work and diligence. Police Chief Eric Schmitt was recognized for

his leadership, and in turn acknowledged the hard work of his officers and entire team. Branson residents were invited to drop by, mingle with officers and city leaders, offer their congratulations and enjoy a piece of birthday cake. Many in the community did stop by to show their support during the birthday event.

“This community is special,” said Police Chief Eric Schmitt, of the support the community shows the police department. “The love we feel here from the community is second to none!”

On Monday, October 9, members of the Alumni Association will volunteer as servers, bussers and dishwashers, working for tips at Branson’s Pizza Ranch. Additionally Pizza Ranch will donate a portion of the evening’s proceeds to the Alumni Association.

Branson Police Officers

Continued from page 3A

for college-aged women.

The Summit included a briefing with several conservative members of Congress. Key issues discussed included the following:

A majority of Americans believe there should not be government funding for abortion, and conservatives will continue to fight to eliminate such funding including that of Planned Parenthood.

• The border crisis is becoming an untenable situation that must be

will be on hand during the event, affording the community an opportunity to meet the officers and show their support for the Branson Police Department, as well as learn about the Branson Citizens Police Academy and the Alumni Association.

Each year, the Branson Police Department offers the Branson Citizens Police Academy to local residents who want first-hand knowledge about the inner workings of the police department. The 12-week course covers such topics as Administration, Patrol Procedures, First Aid/CPR, Tacti-

addressed. An estimated 36% of children crossing the border are being trafficked; cartels are bringing people into the U.S. in categories identified by a bracelet showing how much money they must pay the cartel, basically dooming them to a life of slavery; and overdoses due to fentanyl brought across the border are reaching epidemic proportions.

• The number of people identifying as socialist is also epidemic, as people are brainwashed with free

cal Operations, K9, Special Investigations, DWI/Traffic Enforcement, Crime Scene Investigations, Dispatch and Judicial Process. Police officers and staff volunteer to conduct the classes, with informative and entertaining presentations.

The 2023 BCPA classes have begun, however anyone interested in next fall’s classes can contact Officer Donathan at ddonathan@bransonmo.gov, or by phone at 417-337-8503.

Those graduating from the the Branson Citizens Police Academy are invited to join the organization’s Alumni Association, ded-

stuff; indicating a serious need for changes in policy.

Conservatives in Congress need our support in their commitment to checks and balances rather than out-of-control bureaucracy.

• Senator Marco Rubio has sponsored a pro-life bill, life.gov, which creates a resource to connect pregnant women with pro-life support. Since a similar government resource exists to connect women with abortion providers; there is no logical reason for opposition to this bill.

The Missouri group at the Summit was able to meet personally with Congressman Eric Burlison, and with staff members of other Missouri members of Congress.

icated to supporting the Branson Police Department, as well as encouraging public support for the department. The Alumni Association was founded in 2019.

The BCPAAA fundraiser is set for 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday, October 9 at Pizza Ranch, located at 1464 Missouri Highway 248. It’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy a fun night out at Pizza Ranch while supporting a great cause.

The Branson Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association is a nonprofit, 501(c) (3) organization. Any donations made to the BCPAAA are tax deductible.

Also during the Summit, Haven Howard received a commemorative plaque for her service to CWA in Missouri, including 20 years as Area Director.

An update was also given on the Missouri gubernatorial race currently shaping up, as well as State Representative Brad Hudson’s recent announcement of a state Senate bid. As a nonprofit, CWA cannot officially endorse candidates, but there is a separate PAC to help provide information.

The CWA Prayer/Action committee meets the third Tuesday of each month at Covenant Life Church. For information, updates, and meeting reminders, email havenhoward01@gmail. com.

• CWA

Area school news briefs: Our schools are awesome!

Branson Schools share student and staff highlights

Buchanan Elementary and Cedar Ridge Elementary honored students that completed the Summer Reading Challenge. Over 100 elementary students enjoyed a celebration with contributions from our community partners at McDonald’s and Central Bank.

Branson High School Student Council partnered with H2Ozarks Cleaner Water Together for over 25 bags of trash collected along Lake Taneycomo and Alexander Park.

Congratulations to the Girls Tennis Team as reigning champs at the recent Bolivar JV Tournament for the second year in a row.

The Branson Softball Pirates took second place in the Branson Invitational Tournament.

Congratulations to Branson High School Senior Aaron Strohm who has committed to play baseball for Drury University Panthers.

The Varsity Volleyball Pirates took third place at the Hillcrest Tournament in Springfield.

Branson High School partnered with Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) and Taney County Alcohol & Drug Abuse Prevention Team (ADAPT) to host a Traffic Safety Town Hall. Students were able to test out the

Arrive Alive Simulator, and collaborate about positive driving decisions for their future.

Pirate Youth Football led the Branson Pirates onto the field for September 15 home game.

Thespian Troupe 3482 participated in the Rock The Spectrum event for the sixth year in a row. Theater Director and Troupe Sponsor, Erin Moody, says, “It’s so important for our students to give back to the community that constantly supports them and the art of theatre.”

College of the Ozarks dedicates Ernie and Carolyn Watson Student Center

College of the Ozarks dedicated the Ernie and Carolyn Watson Student Center on Sept. 15 on the College campus. In attendance were the Watsons, Don and Judy Tilmon, and other donors and friends of the College. Students, staff and faculty came together for the moving ceremony.

The Ernie and Carolyn Watson Student Center opened to students this summer and is a beautiful blending of old and new. Construction began in 2020 on the existing Jamison Mass Media Building to transform the structure into a center designed for students. The new center includes three conference rooms, a state-of-the-art movie theatre, a coffee shop, numerous study areas, a large outdoor balcony complete with tables, comfortable patio furniture and sunshades, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that overlook Lake Honor on campus. The building encompasses 33,645 square feet.

College of the Ozarks hosts James Brown for Fall Convocation Oct. 12 College of the Ozarks will host James Brown (also known as JB), host of The NFL Today on CBS and a special CBS news correspondent, for the Leonard B. and Edith Gittinger Fall Convocation on Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023. A three-time Emmy Award-winner, he has hosted the Super Bowl a record-breaking 11 times.

The event will take place on the College campus in the Howell W. Keeter Athletic Complex. Doors open at 5:45 p.m. The prelude begins at 6:30 p.m., with doors closing at 6:45 p.m. The Convocation begins promptly at 7 p.m.

Tickets are required for admission. A limited number of tickets are available to the public at no charge (limit – two per household) and are available only through the College of the Ozarks website on a first come, first-served basis. For tickets, visit the College of the Ozarks website at www.cofo.edu.

Area high school football schedules...

BRANSON

First Pirate Proud recipient of 2023-2024 honored

The first Pirate Proud honoree has been named for Branson Schools 2023-2024 school year. For the month of September, we are proud to recognize Fabiola Lichty, English Learner Specialist teacher at Cedar Ridge Elementary.

She began her career at Branson Schools 11 years ago, working in a school kitchen. From there she be-

Summer reading challenge (Special to Branson Globe)

Student Council (Special to Branson Globe)

Branson Tennis (Special to Branson Globe)

Branson Softball (Special to Branson Globe)

Branson Volleyball (Special to Branson Globe)

Dedication (Special to Branson Globe)

Fabiola Lichty (Special to Branson Globe)

Bronsynski,

Dryer,

DuBuque, Nancy Carol 69 Kimberling City Stumpff Funeral Home, Kimberling City

Hoover, Patricia 74 Hollister Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory

Humphreys, Jack Jr. 75 Huntsville, AL Stumpff Funeral Home, Kimberling City

Continued from page 8A

came a paraprofressional, and now she is a teacher at Cedar Ridge Elementary. Mrs. Lichty cares for her students and their families deeply, and it shows by the way her students thrive in her classroom.

Make your nomination for the next Pirate Proud recipient at : https://bit.ly/3AytT1S

Hollister Homecoming King and Queen crowned

Isaacson, Jerry V. 82 Blue Eye Cremations of the Ozarks

Ishmael, Leslie Ann 57 Forsyth Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel

Keeling, Gary D. 73 Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory

Miller, Joseph 82 Branson Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory

Thompson, James W. “Jim” 78 Kirbyville Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory

Wise, Wanda L. (Edwards) 92 Cremations of the Ozarks

Open house for renovated Reeds Spring Primary School on Oct. 9

The Reeds Spring School District is thrilled to invite members of the community to join us for a tour of the newly renovated Reeds Spring Primary School on Monday, October 9, at 5:30 p.m.

Tennis: At the West Plains Tournament, Haven Hodges, Rylie Lacy, and Reese Phelps earned medals in their singles flights. Earlier in the week, the team lost to Mt. Vernon 9-0 and lost to Clever 7-2.

Cross Country: At the Ava Invitational, the RSHS boys team finished second overall. Max Hirschi placed seventh and Connor Love was ninth. For the girls, Aubree Davis placed 15th. Simmons Bank donates $10,000 to support Table Rock Career Center construction

Simmons Bank recently donated $10,000 to support the construction of the Table Rock Career Center, which is part of the Reeds Spring School District and also serves 10 additional surrounding districts.

Chris

The building, which has been closed since the spring of 2022, has undergone a remarkable transformation thanks to the overwhelming support of the community. Voters approved a no-tax-increase bond levy, enabling the district to fund this exciting renovation project. The work has been completed, and students and staff will return to the school starting on Tuesday, October 3. Reeds Spring Sports Roundup: Running back sets school rushing record Reeds Spring High School senior Chris Daniels set a school record by rushing for 373 yards in their recent 6344 victory over Marshfield. He also scored three touchdowns for the Wolves. Quarterback Blandy Burall threw three touchdown passes, two to Nathan Mitchell and one to Daniel Fliflet.

Softball: The Lady Wolves defeated Aurora 21-6, lost to Rogersville 12-10, and lost to Halfway 9-4.

Volleyball: The RSHS volleyball team defeated Cassville 3-0 and lost to Spokane 3-2.

“This generous donation from Simmons Bank shows its commitment to education and our community,” said Reeds Spring Superintendent Dr. Cody Hirschi.

The Table Rock Career Center will be a state-of-the-art facility that will empower students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the workforce of tomorrow.

Construction is expected to be completed next summer. College of the Ozarks to debut free patriotic play October 17

Beginning Oct. 17, College of the Ozarks will present its annual, free patriotic play. This year’s play is “Breaking the Silence: Stories of Vietnam Veterans,” and it tells the stories of five heroes, all who have a connection to the College.

Performances take place in the Royal Oak Forum, located in The Keeter Center, and are free and open to the public. Seating is first-come, first-served. Groups of 10 or more, call 417-690-2120 to book lunch and reserve seats for the play. Performance times are 2 p.m. on October 17, 19, and November 14: 3 p.m. on October 31, and November 7, 9, 10 and 11; and 7 p.m. on October 18 and 26.

Cathy Ann 74 Hollister Cremations of the Ozarks

Mary Ann 90 Hollister Cremations of the Ozarks

Hollister King Noah Richardson and Queen Chaylen Russell (Special to Branson Globe)

Daniels (Special to Branson Globe)

Donation to Table Rock Career Center (Special to Branson Globe)

BY BRIAN H. SEITZ, State Representative for the 156th District in Missouri

In previous Capitol Reports, I noted some of the successful legislation that I had a personal hand in last session, including the Save Women’s Sports Act, the Film Tax Credit, stopping harmful transition surgeries for minors, and many more. Some of my personal bills to be filed next session include a Personhood Bill (recognizing the rights of the unborn), increasing the Statute of Limitations for

• TIFFANY

Continued from page 5A

and felt absolutely alone. It wasn’t because the preacher wasn’t preaching amazing sermons or putting together a lot of programs. But only a select few of the hundreds who attended were allowed to fill any kind of position and there was a lack of connection amongst the congregation.

I’ve heard preachers tell their congregation that wanting to be used in your specific gift is prideful and that you should be just as satisfied cleaning toilets and wiping tables. Don’t get me wrong, those jobs shouldn’t be beneath anyone, not even a pastor. But if you are called to teach and the only thing you are allowed to do is clean toilets, then you aren’t completely being used the

Capitol Report: New laws on the books

sexual abuse survivors to bring civil claims, lowering of taxes (across the board) and numerous other liberty minded pieces of legislation.

More than 60 bills passed through the Missouri General Assembly this year, and after receiving signature from Missouri Governor Mike Parson, those bills have now become law, effective August 28, 2023. These new laws range across a wide variety of areas, from extending healthcare coverage, covering lifesaving exams for Missourians, tax relief for senior citizens, removing financial barriers in the adoption process, simplifying the state’s vehicle sales tax, increasing public safety and preparing Missouri’s workforce for the future.

Here is a look at some

way God intended you to be used. Paul didn’t say, “If your gift is prophesying, then serve. If your gift is to serve, then teach. If your gift is to lead, then give.” Not that we can’t have more than one gift or fill other ministries when needed – but there are specific areas where each of us shine more than others.

God doesn’t play dirty Santa with his gifts – letting everyone choose the gifts that look the prettiest or to trade if someone else’s gift looks more appealing. We should each humbly and prayerfully consider how we can be used in our specific, unique gifts so that the body of Christ will thrive!

On the other hand, some pastors desperately long for people to operate in their gifts – or any gift at all for that matter – but the

of the new laws: Expanding broadband access Senate Bill 25 provides federal broadband grants and income tax deductions for broadband grants to Missourians. This is part of the ongoing effort to expand broadband across the state, as the need for high-speed internet access has only continued to grow. Missouri remains committed to expanding this vital tool to all corners of the state, and with the $1.7 billion in funds from the federal government, we are making the steps to address the lack of high-speed internet and take advantage of this unprecedented opportunity for growth.

New state designations

SB 139 implements a number of state designations, including several new days of recognition in

congregation would rather sit back, relax and watch the clergymen do it all. Fear, laziness, or feelings of inadequacy may hold them back from contributing the way God intended them to. Paul told young Timothy: “Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the put-

the Show-Me State (many of which, as the Chairman of the Special Committee on Tourism, I had a hand in passing). As part of this legislative package, the first week of March each year will be recognized with an annual proclamation from the Governor as “Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Week.” Here is a look at some of the other new dates of recognition:

• June 12: “Women Veterans Appreciation Day”

First Saturday of October: “Breast Cancer Awareness Day”

• Third Saturday of October: “Domestic Violence Awareness Day”

Expanding access to physical therapy

HB 115 promotes individual choice in health care decisions through the elimination of unneces -

ting on of my hands. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:6-7

I am blessed to now be a part of a church where people are encouraged to flow in their specific giftings. Until I came there, I didn’t realize the extent to which my gifts had grown

sary and burdensome regulations to allow patients to have direct access to physical therapy. The legislation would allow physical therapists with a doctorate of physical therapy or five years of clinical experience to evaluate and initiate treatment on a patient without a prescription or referral from an approved health care provider. The bill also states physical therapists must refer to an approved health care provider patients with certain conditions, including those with conditions beyond the scope of practice of physical therapy, as well as any patient who does not demonstrate measurable or functional improvement within ten visits or 30 days, whichever occurs first.

This new law allows

lax, unused and unpracticed. I even felt unworthy and timid at first (which is out of character for me).

But in that atmosphere of freedom, those gifts began to be stirred up again and I was reminded that we are all meant to be used by God in mighty ways. Even if we mess up sometimes. Even if we don’t feel worthy.

Missourians to have direct access to physical therapists, negating the need for patients to visit a physician before they can make an appointment with a physical therapist. This costs the patient additional money and delays them from returning to their life before the injury.

That’s it for now; as always, I am here to serve. Need to contact my office?

Please call my office at 573-751-1309 if we can ever be of assistance to you, or stop by our office in Jefferson City in room 118. I and my legislator assistant are happy to help.

Brian H. Seitz State Representative of the 156th District 201 W. Capitol Ave., Room 118, Jefferson City, MO 65101 Phone 573-751-1309

“But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.” 2 Corinthians 4:7 Be encouraged, believer! God has a special place for you in his family, and he wants you to shine with all the brightness he has uniquely given you!

Around Town: Here’s what’s going on in the Tri-Lakes

SEPTEMBER

• 29 & 30 Stone County

Fair On The Square in Galena, MO. September 29: 5 to 9 p.m. and September 30: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

• 29 & 30 Shepherd of the Lakes Lutheran Church at 13904 Hwy 160 in Forsyth is having a rummage and bake sale, Fri. & Sat., Sept. 29 & 30: Fri. 7 to 4 pm.; Sat. 7 to 12 p.m. in the back of the church inside.

• 29 Sip and savor at Arnie’s Barn. Sample the best of refined, authentic tequilas while enjoying a mouthwatering 4-course tasting menu, 6 p.m. A night of tequila perfection to savor with family and friends! https:// bigcedar.com/activity/ patron-dinner/.

• 30 Tri-Lakes Humane

Society’s First Annual “Go Fetch!” Community Scavenger Hunt, 9 a.m., at Ignite Church at Lakewood, 19585 MO-413, Reeds Spring. Drawing will be held at 12:30 p.m. $25 per team to participate. Fill out this form: https://tinyurl. com/GoFetchRegistration. For more information, email trilakeshumanesocietymo@ gmail.com or message us on Facebook. See our flyer at https://www. tri-lakeshumanesoc.org/ upcoming-events-1.

• 30 Branson Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Youth fundraiser. We will be clearing tables and accepting cash tips at Fuddrucker’s Branson location, 1615 W. 76 Country Blvd.

from 11 a.m. to closing. Money earned will go toward a 100th Anniversary Give Back Project and the Youth Higher Education fund.

• 30 Taking Aim at Cancer: Clay shooting event, fundraiser for Relay for Life of Branson. Ozarks Shooter Sports Complex, 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For more information and registration, contact Ozark Shooters at shoot4me@centurytel. net or call 417-443-3093. Mail registrations and fees to Ozark Shooters, 759 U.S. Hwy. 65, Walnut Shade, MO 65771.

OCTOBER

• 1 Spaghetti Sunday: Branson Masonic Lodge monthly spaghetti lunch, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. All you can eat for $8 – spaghetti, salad, garlic bread, dessert and drink. Branson Masonic Lodge #587, 100 Chiefs Court, Branson

1 Free gospel concert, Jammin’ for Jesus, 2 p.m., Famous Baldknobbers Theater, 645

State Hwy. 165, Branson. Collecting full-size personal care items and postage stamps for Missouri Veterans Home of Mt. Vernon.

• 1 Freedom of Road Riders 19th Annual Stone County Toy Run. Leaving the Branson West Wal-Mart, 18401 MO-13 at 1 p.m. Food and drawing at the Elks Lodge after the ride. Toys, coats, hats and gloves accepted for boys and girls of all ages! Cash donations welcomed!

• 3 Understanding Artificial Intelligence: One-hour program at the Taneyhills Library, 200 S. 4th Street, Branson, starting at 11 a.m. https://taneyhillscommunitylibrary.org.

• 4 Blessing of the Animals Service, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 3 Northwoods Dr., James River Rd., Kimberling City, 5:30 p.m. A personal blessing will be given to each pet and their human after the service. Pets of all faiths welcome!

For questions: judymckee0211@gmail.com.

4 Jukebox Winos, Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m., Roadhouse 165, 892 Hwy 165, Branson. No cover. www.jukeboxwinos.com.

• 6 Jukebox Winos LIVE MUSIC at award-winning Turkey Creek Brewery, 1865 Bus. 65 in historic downtown Hollister, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. No cover. https://www.jukeboxwinos.com.

6 - 8 The Stemmery Sip and Shop, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Open house, workshops, plant giveaway. 2045 W. Bus. Hwy. 65, Hollister, Unit B. www.flowersbythestemmery.com

• 7 Cram the Van Drive-Thru Food Drive (not distribution), 9 a.m.noon, Liberty Plaza, 114 W. Pacific St., historic downtown Branson. Youth of Branson Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in conjunction with the Christian Action Ministries will be collecting food for families in Taney and Stone counties.

7 Jukebox Winos LIVE

MUSIC at Bear Creek Wine Company & Brewery, 1320 Keithly Rd., Walnut Shade, 10 min. north of Branson. 5 p.m – 8 p.m. No cover. https:// www.jukeboxwinos.com

• 7 - 8 You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown at Music City Centre, Sat. at 3 p.m., Sunday at 7 p.m. www.mucitycentre. com/charlie-brown

9 Branson PD fundraiser at Pizza Ranch on Hwy. 248 in Branson, 4 - 8 p.m. Donationa and proceeds to Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association. www.bcpaaa.org

11 Harmony Trio, Christian Women’s Connection Luncheon, Pointe Royale Clubhouse, 142 Clubhouse Dr., Branson, at 11:30 a.m. Program on the foundation helping adoptive and foster families. Phyllis Vos from Iowa will address the many hats women wear. Call 417-2941287 to reserve by October 9, $17. Affiliated with Stonecroft.

BY LINDA PAGE Entertainment Writer

Last Sunday afternoon the awards ceremony that

Area Entertainment: 2023 Branson Terry Awards

all the entertainers look forward to each year was held at the Branson Famous Baldknobbers Theatre.

The Branson Terry Music Awards started off with a bang when Clay Cooper and his cast hit the stage singing and dancing. Dave Hamner led the packed crowd in prayer, and the Hughes Brothers sang the “Star Spangled Banner.”

Hosts and emcees for the

event were Barbara Fairchild, Chuck Hancock and Denny Yeary.

This is the 45th year of the Terry Awards and the 10th year of the Branson Terry Music Awards. Terry Beene started the awards in Texas when he was a radio deejay. After discussing the Tony Awards on his radio show Terry jokingly said he was starting his own awards show called The Terry

Awards. People began calling and requesting tickets to the ceremony, so he had to create an awards ceremony. And, that’s how it started.

There was lots of entertainment during the ceremony, including performances from SIX, Mike Walker, David Brooks, Barbara Fairchild and Roy Morris, Scott Whitaker and others. Next came the moment everyone was waiting for, the names

of the winners. However, there were no losers in any category of nominees and it surely was a difficult task to narrow down to one winner per category.

Here is the list of the recipients of the 2023 Branson Terry Music Awards.

Comedian of the YearMatt Gumm, Clay Cooper Theatre

• Fiddle Player of the YearMark Pearman, Pickin’

Porch, Branson Craft Mall

• Band of the Year - Dean

Z Ultimate Elvis, Clay Cooper Theatre

• Lead Guitar Player of the Year - Barry Bales, Clay Cooper Theatre

Female Vocalist of the Year - Kari Garrison Clay Cooper’s Country Express, Clay Cooper Theatre

SEE TERRY AWARDS, PAGE 12B

Photos from the Branson Terry Awards (Photos by George Kurland and via Facebook)

Two music giants remembered

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

Branson is mourning the loss of two talented entertainers.

Barry Bales and Bob Leftridge were both well known in the Branson music scene.

Bales performed alongside Moe Bandy, Jean Shepherd and others. He was a vital part of Mel Tillis’ organization, as a member of the Statesiders, and a featured performer in the Clay Cooper Country Express Show.

Bob Leftridge was a Branson legend. Well known by Branson visitors and residents alike, Leftridge was most often associated with the Baldknobbers, where he was a long-time member of the cast and served as master of ceremonies.

Many friends and peers of both men shared their thoughts and remembrances of the musical greats on social media.

Said Clay Cooper, “Barry Bales, what can I say? We’ve been together on stage for over 30 years.

Without a doubt the most incredible guitarist on the planet. An amazing country singer and had some of the best country/redneck sayings of all time. I will miss turning around and saying ‘Pick it, Bear.’ Until we meet again, my friend.”

Cooper’s wife, Tina added, “I’ve known Barry as an incredible guitar player, loving husband, sweet daddy and snuggly grandpa. I’m going to miss hearing him tell stories about his honey, ‘Jinny.’ He loved all his girls and was so proud of each of them. He would tell his stories to anyone who’d listen. His funeral was perfect. Simple and to the point. Most importantly he wanted to remind us how we can see him again—for

it is by grace you have been saved, through faith, and it is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not through works, so no one can boast. (Ephesians 2: 8-9).”

Comedian Matt Gumm noted, “Barry Bales was one of the best guitar players in this town. Not just a great musician, but was one of the nicest, sweetest guys you’d ever meet. We love you, Barry. I know you are up there already playing that guitar in His presence up in heaven.”

Said Taylor Seitz, “Barry was lead guitarist at the Clay Cooper Theater where I work, and performed with Mel Tillis, Moe Bandy, Joe Stampley and others for many years, here in Branson and around the country. One of the greatest guitarists I have ever known. He will be deeply missed by those who have worked with him

FILM FEST FILM FEST

september

Theater. To celebrate 30 YEARS , we’re hosting an IMAX Film Fest

or gotten to know him here in Branson. Absent from the body, present with the Lord.”

Branson’s Roy Morris shared, “So many great words have been spoken about Barry and all were heartfelt by those who knew him well or had only met him once or twice. That’s the kind of man he was. His God-given talent was amazing. If you were a guitarist, Barry Bales was your role model. I’ve known Barry for over 30 years, and never saw anything but kindness, humility and respect for others—a lesson we should all learn. My only regret was not spending more time with him and learning about life’s priorities. Ephesians 4:29 says, ‘Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths but only what is helpful for building others up, according to their needs, that it might benefit those who listen.’ That was Barry Bales. I will miss you, my friend!”

Comedian and entertainer Tim Mabe mourned the loss

of his friend, Bob Leftridge. Said Mabe, “So many of our original Baldknobbers are passing on. Lost a good friend and one of the best MC’s ever passed away. He taught me so much in the comedy business and was my straight man for many years. He will be missed. RIP, Bob Leftridge.”

Vocalist and recording artist Dusty Wayne shared, “Bob was with the Baldknobbers for years, and a few other shows in town. As a matter of fact, he and I shared a dressing room when I was at the Baldknobbers. He’s going to be missed. Heaven gained a beautiful soul. Rest easy, Bob.”

Musical legend Buck Trent noted, “I am saddened to learn of the passing of Bob Leftrdge. He was a fantastic entertainer and friend. Prayers of comfort for his family. RIP, Bob.”

Said Brandon Mabe, of Branson’s Famous Baldknobbers, “Bob was and will always be remembered as one of the most impactful entertainers and emcees in our industry. He is a true legend. Bob will be greatly missed but he will never be forgotten. Please join us in prayer for his family, friends and loved ones during this time. Rest in peace, Bob. You were greatly loved by many.”

Spend an evening with ‘Charlie Brown’

Submitted to Branson Globe King’s Chapel Branson and Music City Center invite you to join them for the musical performance, “You’re A Good Man,

Charlie Brown.” Based on the popular comic strip characters, Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang explore life’s great questions as they play baseball,

struggle with homework, sing songs, swoon over crushes, and celebrate the joy of friendship.

“Peanuts’ characters allow us to often see our own failures and frailties,” commented Pastor Chris Davis of King’s Chapel Branson. “As a devout Christian, their creator, Charles Schulz, often weaved theological truths from the Bible into his comics. As a man of faith, he understood there is hope in the tough times in life, and it is our hope that we share that as well.”

All performances are at Music City Centre, 1839 W. 76 Country Blvd. in Branson. Run time is just under two hours with intermission. Mark your calendar for one of these remaining show dates:

• Saturday, Oct. 7, 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 8, 7 p.m.

• Saturday, Oct. 14, 3 p.m.

• Sunday, Oct. 15, 7 p.m.

Music City Centre performances are an outreach of King’s Chapel Branson along with the King’s Academy of Performing Arts, a nonprofit, Christian-based theatre academy, teaching vocals, choreography and acting through performance. Learn more about King’s Chapel Branson at www. kcbranson.com; for more information about Music City Center and the Charlie Brown performances, visit https://www.mucitycentre.com/charlie-brown or call 417-460-5200.

Remembering Barry Bales, left, and Bob Leftridge (Photos via Facebook)

TRACTOR - Very rare John Deere mdl L 2 cyl tractor, totally restored and runs great, new tires, rarest of all John Deere Tractors, MFG 1934

ANTIQUES - Oak side by side double secretary (original finish), drop front desk, several fancy walnut & oak parlor tables, 6 of the finest early bronze lamps with leaded glass shades, nice collection antique Persian carpets, beautiful and painted bowls and pitchers from Russia, Germany, Bavaria some with red mark R.S. Russia. Set of 5 queen Anne chairs, step front kitchen safe, oak hall tree with mirror and coat hooks, oak corner cup board, spinning wheel, oak rocking chairs.

PRIMITIVES - 4 ft. log carved mixing bowl, old duck and goose decoys, cast iron toy collection, organ stool, big collection early stoneware crocks, jugs, jars (some dating prior to civil war), pr cast iron eagle gate post tops, glass churns marked daisy, collection metal signs covered with porcelain advertising gas, oil cars etc (some old and some more modern), up to 3 ft in diameter, several old clocks including water Berry pinwheel jewelry regulator, over 6 ft tall in oak cabinet, hand woven Persian carpets, leaded glass windows and fireplace cover, copper rooster and eagle weather vanes, early oil on canvas paintings, Seth Thomas bank clock, oak hall mirror with cat hooks and lift seat, walnut commode, punched tin pie safe, kitchen pie safe with pattern front, oak highboy dresser,marble top walnut commode, oak whiskey barrel, farriers wooden tray, wooden carpenters box, chuck wagon box, set of oak pattern back chairs, oak drop leaf tables, curved glass China with leaded glass door, large red metal horse with wings (Depicting mobile Pegasus horse), plus much more.

COWBOY, INDIAN, WESTERN COLLECTABLES - Chuck wagon with covered top - weathered, Navajo rugs, Buffalo head mount, African animal head mounts, buffalo skull, long horn horns, 8 ft. tall wooden cigar store Indian chief, Indian baskets, China dolls, Native rugs, collection of Navajo Indian silver and turquoise jewelry, nice collection of arrow & spear points, bird points in displays, stone axes and celts, 34” stone monolithic ax, monolithic stone idols, dolls and pipes, nice collection of western art by artists Bev Doolittle, Judy Larson, Terry Redlin and other popular artists. Oil on canvas pictures, bead pipe tomahawk, beaded pipe bag, beaded Sioux cuffs. large tanned steer hides, Civil war saddle bags, flint spear and arrow points up to 18” long, plus much more.

ANTIQUE GUNS - Western Bronze - Winchester 73 22 short - rare, Colt lightning 38 revolver 7 1/2” bll. old engraved, Colt frontier 6 shooter 44 engraved, Colt SA Army 45 with star, crips and factory letter, Colt mdl open top 22 revolver, L.C. Smith 12 ga. Coach gun marked Wells Fargo & Co., Winchester mdl 1866 44 brass frame carbine engraved, Winchester mdl 12 marked WS-1, 1873 filbert 22 stamped May Lillie with photo, US Springfield trap door 45-70 with bull buffalo barrel, Colt SA army 45 en-

graved with 7 1/2” bll., Brass frame Henry 44 Ring Fire Civil War, plus other old guns.

TAXIDERMY - Royal elk head mount, Noah’s ark depicting animals in boat, Silver fox lying on a log, Gemsbok head on pedestal, 2 large white tail deer head on pedestal, Nice buffalo head, buffalo skull, Long horn steer horns, tall sheep head, otter on log, large raccoon, Plus much more. KNIVES - Nice collection hunting and folding pocket knives.

RARE COIN COLLECTION - Very nice collection early date Morgan dollars including many UNC and key date issues, several Carson city dates including 1889 cc, monster box of 500 American silver eagles, over 300 1 oz. Buffalo rounds, over 100 UNC peace dollars, run of 31 years of proof sets, complete set buffalo nickels, over 50 commemorative UNC and proof silver dollars, nice variety early type coins, over 200 Indian head cents, mercury dimes walking Liberty half dollars, 200 grade Morgan and peace dollars SILVER BULLION – 4 100 oz. engraved bars, 10 oz. silver bars, 5 oz. bars, Wells Fargo antique silver bar, over 100 1 & 2 oz. Donald Trump silver rounds GOLD – $1 Liberty gold, 2 1/2 Indian & Liberty, $5 Indian & Liberty, $10 Indian & Liberty’s, US $20 St. Gaudens, US $20 Liberty gold, US $50 102 gold buffalo in both proof and UNC, 1 oz. gold eagle, US 2009 ultra high relief 1 oz. St. Gaudens, great coin and bullion collection all coins, gold and silver bullion guaranteed authentic.

NAVAJO JEWELRY - Approx. 50 lots of artist signed sterling silver Navajo jewelry from Santa Fe and Gallup, New Mexico area. Squash blossom necklaces with turquoise, bracelets, earrings pendants, buckles and more. PRECIOUS JEWELRY - 14K band with 2 ct. round diamond solitaire, 14K ring with 1.76 ct. princess cut diamond solitaire on diamond band, 14K ear studs with 4.05 ct. diamond 2 ct. solitaire each side, 14K chain & pendant with US $20 St. Gaudens, 14K gents ring with 2.49 ct round diamond solitaire and 2 1/2 ct. rubies, 14 K chain & bezel with $10 Indian gold coin and 2 ct. diamonds, 14K gents ring with 2 1/2 ct. diamonds on heavy gold band., 14K ring with 7.46 ct. ruby & 1.60 ct. diamond, 14K bracelet with 10 ct. high quality diamonds, 14K ring with 4.38 ct. tanzanite & approx. 1 ct. diamond, several rings with 1/2 to 1 ct. diamond solitaires, 14K ear studs with 2.50 ct. diamonds, 14K horse shoe ring with 1 ct. diamond & 5 ct. garnet, 14K earrings with 6.85 ct. aquamarine & 1.75 ct diamonds, strand of genuine pearls, 14K chain & pendant with $5 Indian gold & 1 ct. diamond, 14K ring with 1 ct. princess cut diamond solitaire on diamond band, 14K bracelet with 12.50 ct. lion fancy canary diamonds, 14K white gold ring with 3.12 ct. round diamond solitaire SI-2 J color (very nice), 14K earring studs with 2.13 ct. diamond (1 ct. each side).

BY COWBOY

As I sit here in my chair this morning on the front porch of Old Matt’s Cabin looking down below at the upper side of Mutton Hollow, I am reminded of our neighbors who lived just inside Stone County, the family of Truman S. Powell. Three members of the Powell family were inspirations for Harold Bell Wright’s book characters. Truman was believed by many to be the basis of Daniel Howitt. His first-born son William was the inspiration for Preachin’ Bill, and his fourth-born child, Ralph was the inspiration for Ollie Stewart. This info is in depth, and on my tour out here I only mention these details to only a few who will understand it. Today I’d like to share some fas-

Memories from the Homestead: Powell family had significant impact as Shepherd of the Hills characters [part one]

cinating true details, so let’s get started while my cup of coffee is still hot, and yes, I have pumpkin spice in it!

Mr. Truman Powell (Daniel Howitt) was born October 25, 1842, in LaSalle County, Illinois, in the community of Mount Palatine. This is located southwest of Chicago, not far from the Illinois River. Truman’s father, Thomas, was a Baptist preacher there. In 1861 Truman married a New York native, Miss Helen Rowena Hopkins. They would have eight children together and adopt three, for a total of eleven kids from 1867 to 1899. Truman served in the Civil War under General Sherman in the U.S. Army, Co. A of the 64th Illinois Infantry. Four years after he was discharged, Truman and Helen moved to Carthage, Missouri, and then north to Lamar. It was here that Truman and Levi Morrill (Uncle Ike) became acquainted. Truman worked at Levi’s Barton County Advocate newspaper. Levi later sold the Advocate to Truman, who published it as the Barton County Record through 1869. Remaining in Lamar, it

was in 1882 when Powell and his friend Mr. T. H. Jones took a trip into Stone County. Their destination was Marble Cave. The men were under the impression that the cave contained mineral wealth, and in 1884 they established the Marble Cave Mining Company.

Truman would become vice president of the company, but they found nothing in terms of mineral wealth. Instead, they mined the bat guano from the cave, made a nice profit on it, and completed the project by 1889.

It was during this time that Truman moved his newspaper business to Galena, so this was the beginning of the Stone County Oracle newspaper. The Powell family homesteaded on the upper end of Fall Creek, near the Stone County line, some sixteen miles from Galena. Truman was very successful with the paper there and would travel to Galena daily for some fourteen years.

Later Powell would enter the political scene and was elected as the Stone County Representative in the 50th General Assembly of Missouri. He was the old-

est member of the House of Representatives when he passed away in Jefferson City, March 14, 1919, at the age of 76.

Long-time neighbor J.K. Ross here at Garber had this to say regarding Truman’s passing in the March 20, 1919, issue of the Taney County Republican.

“The body of the Hon. Truman S. Powell was brought home from Jefferson City with an escort of the hearse last Sunday and buried in the Evergreen Cemetery near his home. This will be a great loss to the neighborhood as Mr. Powell was always one to take the lead in anything pertaining to the good of the vicinity, and many an old soldier and soldier’s widow can bear testimony to his energy in procuring pensions for them when they had given up in despair. We must all pay the great debt as it comes to us. Among the friends who attended the funeral was Mrs. Wakefield of Carthage, Mo., who joined them at Carthage as they came down Sunday; Richard Powell, a son, of Bristow, Okla.; and his sister,

Nettie Irwin, of Griffithsville, Ark., came with the party from Jefferson City, and also a granddaughter from Kansas City. Thus the old settlers are fast passing away leaving the work unfinished for younger hands.”

Next week for part two, I’ll discuss Truman and Helen’s sons, Will and Ralph, and explain in detail their connections to Harold Bell Wright’s the Shepherd of the Hills. Right now, it’s time for a coffee refill.

Branson Gospel Singer Songwriter Association celebrates 2023 winners

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

A host of talented individuals were honored over the weekend with the 21st Annual Branson Gospel Singer Songwriter Association Awards Banquet.

Held at the Best Western on Branson’s Main Street, the special night recognized those who use their talents to glorify God. Hosted by BGSSA co-founder Sherrie Brewster and Brian LeeMasters, the event included a delicious catered dinner, celebrity presenters, special music, and a touching candlelight ceremony to close the evening.

2023 BGSSA Award winners were:

• Male Vocalist: Brian

LeeMasters

• Female Vocalist: Jaimee

Brewster

• Vocal Group: The Hills

• Young Artist: The Hill Boys

Golden Pen Songwriter: Kevin Cobb

Paul D. Rauch Special

Talents Award: Benny (Jabbo) Bennett

• New Horizons Female

Vocalist: Amanda Rose

New Horizons Male Vo-

calist: John Huffines

New Horizons Song-

writer of the Year: Bonnie Huffines and Jerry

Weatherly (Tie)

• Instrumentalist of the Year: Jeni Hill

• Remembering You

Award: Eva McCann

Lifetime Achievement

Award: David Fountaine

D.K. Brewster Spirit

Award: Kevin Cobb

Heart for the Kingdom

Award: Keith and Kathy

O’Neil

Audio/Video/Editing: Brian and Danelle Lee-

Masters

• Video/Radio Production: Matthew Sanders

Video Livestreaming: Marcia Bennett

Radio Production: Jim Blakey

• Administrative Assistants: Sheri Irby and Teresa Rauch Hospitality Hosts: Jim and Rhonda Blakey

Media Coordinator: Dale

Brown

• ALG Gospel Network Roy Young Appreciation

Award: Rick and Nicole Bellmore Keep Pressing on Award: Sherrie Brewster James Marvell Open Heart Award from ALG Gospel Network: Sherrie

Brewster

• Gospel Artist of the Year: The Hills

• Gospel Song of the Year:

“Something’s About to Happen,” The Hills Congratulations to all of the 2023 award winners.

JOHN FULLERTON, a native of Taney County, and a member of the Sons of the Pioneers.

The Honorable Truman S. Powell, longtime Stone County resident on the upper side of Fall Creek, the inspiration of the Daniel Howitt character in Harold Bell Wright’s the Shepherd of the Hills. (Photo courtesy of the Powell family)

BY JODY JOHNSON GODFREY Wellness Design Specialist

Supposedly, the Egyptians were (among) the first to laud and utilize castor oil so diversely. C.O. is considered a vegetable oil...pale yellow in hue and is derived from crushing the seeds of the castor oil plant. It is 90% ricinoleic acid which is an unsaturated Omega 9

Castor oil: Medicine cabinet in a bottle

Fatty Acid.

C.O., generally, can be used for relieving skin conditions, constipation, treating infections, and strengthening our immune systems.

C.O. is an anti-inflammatory AND an anti-microbial agent. C.O. is a stimulant for our lymphatic (taking out the trash...) system.

C.O. is probably considered the very best “carrier oil,” ever, because it can be combined with ANY essential oil and neither of their efficacies will be distorted, diluted or neutralized!

C.O. has had a historical bad reputation for its horrible taste, but don’t let that be a deterrent to using it. For constipation you can always

put it in capsules (medicine droppers work well) which would avoid the unpleasant taste. C.O. can also be used topically for most everything else, which is a huge PLUS!

Topical uses for C.O. would include:

1. Arthritis treatment

2. Hair growth and strengthening (prevents breakage and follicle weakness); add two tablespoons to your shampoo bottle

3. Acne treatment

4. Skin moisturizer

5. Deep cleanser

6. Improves immune system via rubbing into sinus areas and lymphatic pressure points as this bad boy reaches down

seven inches deep for incredible healing!

7. It removes fine lines and wrinkles with regular use.

8. Reduces swelling and inflammation

9. Increases circulation (thus assisting lymphatic system to function at its best)

10. Heals wounds and abrasions

11. Relieves menstrual cramps

12. Combine C.O. with a little baking soda to remove moles and skin tags (apply daily and cover with Band-Aid for four-six weeks)

13. Relieves migraines quickly by rubbing on affected area

Oral uses for C.O. are:

1. Relieves constipation

2. Purges or cleanses intestines prior to surgery

3. Induces labor, naturally C.O. is a natural arthritis remedy as well as a “miracle worker” for muscle, nerve or ligament injury. For applying C.O. to sore joints, nerves or ligaments, soak gauze, cheesecloth or even an Ace bandage in C.O. and then encase it in Saran Wrap. You can sleep in it this way without it staining your bed linens. If you prefer not to sleep in it, simply put a heating pad on it for an hour or so.

You may also apply it, topically, as an example...it removes stretch marks with

MindFlow: Begin with the end in mind

and a chance to debrief each other on the “completion of life” and anecdotes we can all share about that person’s contribution to our lives and communities. It seems to me that those little dinners often have potato salad.

BY DANIEL KOREN, is a local business owner and motivational speaker.

Potato salad and funer-

als. Does your church follow that tradition? After the funeral is over everyone gathers in the fellowship hall for some refreshments

In fact, while eating my side of potato salad the other day at Vasken’s Deli, I suddenly realized it had been a while since I’ve been to a funeral. The potato salad was on-point, however, and I now realize that no one needs to die for me to enjoy potato salad. Thank you for allowing my undiagnosed ADD brain to unravel for a minute.

The other thing that is more common than deli food at funerals and celebrations of life ceremonies is eulogies. Eulogizing a person is how we process what they meant to us. We want to remember the good times, the accomplishments, and a few of the challenges they overcame. Engage your mind for a moment and get into this flow: What will they say at your funeral? What would your parents say if they could speak at your funeral? What about your closest relationships? Spouse, children, friends and communi-

ty folks who know you?

Think deeper now. What would they think about you? Realize that for all the nice things being said at funerals, there are endless playlists of conversations and scenes in the minds of the people who knew the man in the box. All those are not worth telling. But they are there.

I am more concerned about what people will be thinking about me after I’m dead than what they get up and say to make the refreshments easier to digest. I have stories from my past that might give you indigestion if you knew. I don’t

want anyone talking about those things. Neither do you want all your dirty laundry on display on your casket someday.

So do this. Write it down.

Take a walk and think for 15 minutes and then sit down for another 15 minutes and just write everything you can think of that people in the community would say about you if they could speak at your funeral.

Done? Now, brace your emotions and take the next deep step in your growth. Write down what they would be thinking about you. Write from the perspective of your

continued use! You may use a spray bottle for topical applications. Fill any size spray bottle with one-half C.O. and one-half aloe vera juice OR one-half C.O. and one-fourth Aloe Vera and one-fourth of your favorite essential oil depending on what is needed to be addressed. If it is for pain and healing, then add onefourth frankincense oil. If it is for growing and strengthening hair, do one-fourth rosemary oil. If it will be for a skin moisturize or “wrinkle balm,” add one-fourth coconut oil.

You can conduct your own “in depth” research and will be astounded at how diversified this “single product medicine cabinet” actually is!

former schoolmates, present church members, those you serve with on boards, and other colleagues and community contacts.

If you are honest, you’ll help articulate things they admire about you and things you did that frustrated or scared them. Don’t get lost in a pit of self-loathing from this exercise. When you complete this assignment, your life will forever change. It transformed me and I want to share that gift with you. If you complete this part honestly, the next step will be very freeing. Write your eulogy.

Mitigating the Good, the Bad and the Ugly: Lunch and Learn hosted by Skaggs Foundation

Submitted to Branson Globe

Life throws us all some curveballs from time to time.

Whether those curveballs come in your personal life, professional life, or both, it’s not always easy to move

forward. On Oct. 12, Cox Medical Center Branson Behavioral Health Consultant, Bryan Mason, will offer practical advice on how to overcome the stress and trauma we may face in life during an upcoming Lunch

and Learn, Mitigating the Good, the Bad and the Ugly.

Mason has extensive training and experience in first responder peer support, counseling in work and personal life matters, critical incidents, traumas, and ma-

jor life changes and struggles. In his current position, Mason works with Cox Branson staff to help them process trauma and issues that they face at work or in their personal life.

The Lunch and Learn is

part of the Skaggs Foundation 2023 Speaker Series and begins at 11:30 a.m. in the Tree Rooms at Cox Medical Center Branson, 525 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson. The luncheon is $5 per person and sponsored by First Community Bank of the Ozarks. Lunch

will be catered by Famous Dave’s.

To register, visit skaggsfoundation.org/events/. Space is limited. Registration will close Oct. 10 or when capacity is reached. Questions? Email Foundation@skaggs.net.

Behavioral Health Consultant Bryan Mason (Special to Branson Globe)

Grilled Shrimp with Balsamic Reduction

BY CHEF JEFF WOODWARD

Prep Time: 45 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients:

2 Zucchini, cut in half lengthwise

1 Red Onion, cut into ¼inch-thick slices

• ½ C Honey Ginger Balsamic Vinegar

• 1 lb 31/35 Medium Shrimp, peeled raw

• 1/4 C Fresh Parsley, chopped

• Himalayan Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper

• 4T Tuscan Herb Olive Oil

Instructions:

1. Heat a grill with a seafood grate or grill pan to medium-high heat.

2. Toss the zucchini and onion with 2T of Tuscan herb olive oil in a separate bowl. Then, put it on the grate or on the preheated grill pan and cook for approximately 8 minutes. Remove from the grate or grill pan and chop coarsely.

3. Bring the vinegar to a boil over high heat in a small

saucepan for approximately 3 minutes or until reduced to ¼ cup liquid. Set aside to cool and thicken slightly.

4. Toss the shrimp in 2 T of Tuscan herb olive oil.

5. Cook the shrimp on the grate or grill pan for approximately 5 minutes or until the shrimp is opaque.

6. Toss the chopped zucchini and onion in a large bowl with the tomatoes, parsley, and ¾ of the

vinegar reduction. Place in a serving bowl. Then toss the shrimp with the remaining vinegar reduction.

7. Top the mixture with the shrimp. Salt and pepper to taste.

GO ROGUE by using Grilled Octopus, instead of Shrimp. If you’d like Chef Jeff to make this delicious recipe or any other meal for you, contact him at www. TheRogueChefBranson.com.

Mom’s Meatloaf

BY JANET STEINKAMP, EDITOR

Gotta love this meat

loaf—truly a comfort food!

Meatloaf Ingredients:

2 eggs, lightly beaten

• 3/4 cup 2% milk

• 2/3 cup finely crushed saltines (I use Panko bread crumbs)

½ cup chopped onion or substitute onion flakes to taste

• 1 tsp. salt

• 1/2 tsp. ground sage

• Dash pepper

1 1/2 lbs. lean ground beef or other ground meat (I use ground turkey)

OPTIONAL: I also mix one tablespoon of barbeque sauce (or use sauce ingredients below) into the meat mixture, which makes meatloaf more flavorful and moist.

Sauce Ingredients:

• 1 cup ketchup

½ cup brown sugar

White River Valley Electric Cooperative hosts food drive

Submitted to Branson Globe White River Valley Electric Cooperative hosts their annual food drive, “Power to Turn Hunger into Hope.” The drive will last the entire month of October with an overall goal to fill area food pantry shelves in their five-county service territory.

Due to the massive success of the previous three years, the drive will feature a virtual option as well as in-person events. WRVEC will have several “popup”

donation stations at various grocery stores over the course of the month.

While all donations will make a big impact on our local communities, the biggest impact comes from monetary donations because four meals can be purchased with each dollar given. A donation can be made with ease online, in-person, by text, or at any of their five offices during business hours. To donate by text, text WRVEC to 844-844-

6844. Since its formation in 2014, the food drive has supported local food pantries with funds to provide over 541,800 meals in Ozark, Douglas, Stone, Christian and Taney counties. WRVEC is asking the community to rally togeth-

er and spread the word to family and friends as they continue to tackle this huge need across the Ozarks.

The schedule of in-person events and more information on the food drive can be found at https://www. whiteriver.org/community/ food-drive/.

(packed)

1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce (or you may top meat loaf with your favorite barbeque sauce)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. In a bowl, combine the first seven ingredients.

3. Add beef (or other ground meat); mix lightly but thoroughly.

4. Shape into an 8x4-inch

loaf in an ungreased 15x10x1-in. baking pan.

5. In a small bowl, combine remaining ingredients, stirring to dissolve sugar; remove 1/2 cup for sauce. Spread remaining mixture over meat loaf.

6. Bake approximately one hour or until a thermometer reads 160 degrees. Let stand 10 minutes. Serve with reserved sauce.

Fun day at the circus benefits area youth

BY

the

& Merriweath-

er Circus, held at the Taney County Fairgrounds in Forsyth on Friday, September 15. Proceeds from the circus, a bi-annual event sponsored by the Forsyth Lions Club, will help with the Lions Scholarship and Vision Care programs.

Circus day in Forsyth also included opportunities for families to see the raising of the Big Top, meet performers, and see how the animals in the circus are cared for.

Culpepper & Merri-

weather Circus specializes in bringing the Big Top experience to smaller and rural communities, frequently working with local area nonprofits to benefit the host community. Learn more about Lions Clubs by visiting https://e-clubhouse.org/sites/forsythmo or Forsyth Missouri Lions Club on Facebook.

Yes! Church welcomes singer Lillie Knauls this Sunday

Submitted to Branson Globe

Pastors Kris and Tricia

Jackson of Yes! Church in Reeds Spring invite you to join them in welcoming Ms. Lillie Knauls as special guest musical artist, this Sunday, October 1, at 10 a.m.

In 1975, announcing Lillie Knauls as a special guest artist might have been met with “Lillie who?” Decades

later, though, Yes! Church is excited to join the long list of churches, with audiences of all ages, who continue to enjoy the incredibly anointed music ministry of Ms. Lillie, whom many people will recognize as “the hat lady” from Gaither Homecoming concerts and videos.

You’ll be blessed by this incredible woman of God,

who has recorded many albums of gospel favorites and her own original songs since 1975. But don’t bother to count the decades; listeners of all ages still can’t resist singing along with her rendition of “Oh Happy Day,” the 1755 hymn made popular by the Edwin Hawkins singers and covered by multiple artists, including more than one movie.

After finding her gifting in music, Miss Lillie has ministered wherever doors are opened to her as a “musicianary,” including large

and small churches, Aglow Fellowships, rest homes, prisons, Christian women’s clubs, and major Christian TV programs. An original member of the Edwin Hawkins singers, she recently accepted the award on the group’s behalf of induction into the Gospel Music Association (GMA) Hall of Fame in Nashville, Tennessee, joining other music superstars including Shirley Caesar and the Fisk Jubilee Singers.

This amazing musician was born in Arkansas, in a family of six girls and one boy. Church was the first place Lillie went in life; when the church doors were open, the Knaul family was there. Lillie can’t ever remember not loving the Lord, as she asked Him to come into her heart at a young age.

In addition to her music, God has given Ms. Lillie the gift of remaining single, as the Apostle Paul mentions in 1 Corinthians 7:32. She is a frequent speaker at singles’ rallies, sharing on the subject, “Single and Satisfied,” and stresses the importance of singles being involved with families, es-

pecially families with children, and of course, with a church family.

Ms. Lillie now lives in California, but she has traversed the globe ministering and singing in many nations, including audiences of 200,000 people in Rio de Janiero and 500,000 in Ghana, with the same Christ-centered musical message. Although her ministry has yet to personally visit nations under Communist rule, who knows?

Yes! Church is located at 360 Emerson Rd. in Reeds Spring. Get ready to enjoy a wonderful time of worship and some amazing music!

www.Presleys.com

Some of the circus performers the kids got to meet (Photo by Richard Grim)

CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer Many area families attended and enjoyed

Culpepper

Richard and Connie Grim with daughter-in-law Lisa Grim, Ralphie and Walker (Photo by Richard Grim)

Singer Lillie Knauls (Special to Branson Globe)

Master Gardeners Fall Garden Workshop held September 16

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer

Great company, good food, a chance for fun and valuable prizes, and educational speaker presentations, combined for an enjoyable day for garden enthusiasts at the Fall Garden Workshop presented by Master Gardeners of the Ozarks. Workshop attendees from around Taney and Stone counties and several surrounding communities gathered at New Testament Christian Church in Reeds Spring to

enjoy learning opportunities and fellowship with other fans of all things gardening at “Hello Fall.”

The workshop opened at 8:30 a.m. with continental breakfast and the chance to browse the vendors, including “In His Garden” of nearby Galena; Lapdog Pottery; MG Marketplace by Bill Greet; Two Clay Sisters; and of course, the Master Gardeners Plant Booth. Educational presentations started at 9:30 a.m. with “Trees and Shrubs,” presented by

City of Branson landscape specialist Amy Jackson, a valuable overview of what to plant where in your share of the Ozarks topography. Barb Emge of Red Barn Herbs followed with “Growing Herbs in the Ozarks,” again addressing the unique challenges and rewards of finding the right fit in the Ozarks and giving tips for choosing successful cultivars.

After a delicious lunch by always-popular Lillee’s Catering of Nixa, Entomologist and Master Gardener Tom Riley took the mic to provide valuable information on “Things That Bite & Sting in the Garden.” Kevin Nelson, Master Gardener in Douglas County, Kansas, rounded out the presentations with helpful tips on a topic all gardeners eventually face, “Gardening As We Age.”

Delicious and beautiful

Raffle drawings are always a fun way to support the Master Gardeners’ community beautification and education projects, with a chance to take home something fun, pretty, or useful.

Out of the mouths of babes...

BY TIFFANY GRAVETT, Staff

Writer

I picked up my daughter when we were at the pumpkin patch this weekend and she said, “Papa, wet and stinky. Papa need baff” -Imra, age 2

Kid 1: Mrs. Rippy, I like your dress. It looks really pretty.

Me: Thank you!

Kid 2: Yeah, I like your dresser.

Me: Ummm thanks??

• Me: Listen here, girlfriend, you’re trying my very last nerve!

Chloe Joe: Good news…

Jesus fills the lack!

-Chloe, age 9

• Malachi has informed me that he is, in fact, NOT a son. He is a brother. -Malachi, age 3

• Last Sunday, we were having our usual family lunch, and my mom’s finger was bandaged up

pretty good. I asked her what happened, and she said, “Oh, I cut it on a mandolin.”

Waylon looked at her a little surprised and confused and said, “You play the mandolin, Grandma?”

-Waylon, age 16

“Dad, I said a bad word.”

“What did you say?”

“I don’t want to say.”

“Say it.”

“I said Dane (Dang) it.”

“Why did you say that?”

“Cause I just wanted peace.”

One day while making

The gym at NTCC was filled with enthusiastic gardeners.

Raffle offerings included gift cards from area merchants; handmade garden décor; fishing tackle; bags of tools and garden accessories; plants; flower pots and soil; and much, much more. If you missed the workshop, learning opportunities aren’t quite over for the fall season: Our neighbors just

south, Boone County Master Gardeners in Arkansas, will host a Fall Garden Planning Seminar on October 14 at North Arkansas College in Harrison; call 870-7416168 or email dunover2@ gmail.com for information.

After a winter of resting and planning, the Spring Workshop will be held at

his smart mouth.

supper, my daughter came up and asked me what I was making. When I told her I was making dumplings, I could see her little mind go into deep thought. Then, with a look of excitement she exclaimed, “Humpty dumplings?!” -Hannah, age 4

Text conversation with my neighbor after my son, Cody, went over to play with her son: Neighbor: Cody walks in and my son says, “Hey, you wanna play?” Cody said, “No, I just came

over to sit around and not play.”

Me: I am so sorry about

• “Digestion: I’ve always

Faith Lutheran Church in Branson in March 2024; check www.mgozarks. org regularly for the exact date when it is announced, as well as 2024 sessions at Kimberling Area Library, Taneyhills Library, and at the demonstration garden near County Extension office in Forsyth.

wanted to say that word. This seemed like a perfect time.”

(Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas)

items from In His Garden of Galena (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas) SEE MORE PICTURES ON PAGE 7C

Our Tintype Tradition: ‘Silver Dollar City is the Story of Us’

special Christmas at Silver Dollar City—Nanny’s last.

“We knew she was getting sicker, so the entire family came up with a plan to make one more trip to Branson with her,” he says. “We got her a motorized scooter, and she was able to see all of the Christmas lights and watch the parade with her family. She was such a trooper! The weather was so cold that year but we didn’t care at all. It’s almost like our hearts melted and warmed us right up!”

Don and Juanita Lindley and their wall of tintype photos (Special to Branson Globe)

Submitted to Branson Globe

Each time Thomas Lindley strolls through his parent’s house in Oklahoma, a special wall of framed faces takes him back to being a little boy on vacation in Branson.

“That wall is the story of us,” says Lindley, who lives near his folks in Broken Arrow. “Those 30 tintype photos represent 30 years of making memories with those I love the most – three

decades of laughter I can still hear when I close my eyes.”

Thomas’ parents, Don and Juanita, always insisted on taking a family photo first thing on each trip to the park. “We’d walk in and know the drill – photo first, then go have fun!

Thomas didn’t realize how much the tintype tradition and annual season passes would mean to him once he grew up and became a father of his own.

“I look through all of the pictures and it really just hits you in the heart,” he explains. “Right before our eyes, we can see how our family grew as the park grew. I smile at seeing babies still in their mama’s belly and get somber seeing a loved one we’ve lost.”

The one they lost was Thomas’ beloved grandma “Nanny.” Of all The City trips they’ve taken, he holds extra tight to the memory of one

The Lindley family lost Nanny later that year. Through their grief, they found comfort in knowing they’d pass down her traditions and her love of the park. Thomas and Martha now have three children, ranging in age from six to 12. Their oldest, Tommy, might just be a Silver Dollar City superfan.

“When people would ask him what he wanted to be when he grew up, he’d tell them the mayor of Branson and the boss of Silver Dollar City,” Martha laughs. “It’s safe to say that our Silver Dollar City traditions will be

safe someday with Tommy.”

Tommy, of course, is featured in the tintypes but has started his own Silver Dollar City traditions. Now 12 years old, he’s carried a special backpack named “Puppy” to the park on each visit since he was one. He collects a special pin or keychain on each trip and attaches it to the bag.

“Poor puppy,” Thomas laughs. “You can’t even really tell it’s a dog anymore because it’s so covered in buttons. But, that’s part of Tommy’s story. It’s a good visual reminder of how important the park is to our own kids.”

There’s another item always stowed away in a “Puppy” pocket – a crocheted Baldknobbers hat Tommy got from one of The City’s shops years ago. He lost it one time and the family went on a wild goose chase to track down the crafter to get another one.

“We have so many little stories like that from our years coming here,” Martha smiles. “The people here will do whatever they can to make sure guests have a good time. You don’t forget

things like that!”

Thomas can vividly remember being Tommy’s age and how Silver Dollar City felt like “his park” too.

“We’d plan one big trip each summer to Branson and we’d look forward to it all year long,” he remembers with a smile. “We’d plot out our day, which always included a ride on Fire In The Hole and a trip down to Marvel Cave. I’ve been coming so long, I actually think I’ve witnessed stalagmites and stalactites growing together!”

Their children are growing faster than those marvels in the cave, so the Lindleys make sure Santa keeps up his own tradition – giving the kids the gift of season passes.

“It sounds cliché but they’re the gift that keeps on giving,” she says. “They will excitedly get that pass and look forward to the entire year and all the festivals. When you think about it, there’s absolutely no doubt that the gift of time together is the greatest gift of all –an opportunity to add more memories to our wall.”

Event to honor Gold Star families: SDC hosts nearly 600 surviving family members Saturday

Submitted to Branson Globe

To honor and remember U.S. military members lost in combat across the globe, Silver Dollar City is teaming with health partner Humana to host nearly 600

surviving family members for a fun-filled day ended with a commemorative ceremony to honor the fallen. Invites were sent by Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) and

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS), and most of the families are within a day’s drive of Branson.

The day kicks off with a special 9:15 a.m. Opening Ceremony and Commemo-

rative Flag Raising with the families, accented by participation by Warriors’ Watch Riders motorcycle group. The families will then spend their day at Silver Dollar City before a poignant eve-

ning ceremony. An Honor & Remember Ceremony will be in the Riverfront Playhouse at 6 p.m. to pay respect to more than 100 heroes. During the service, a roll call of those lost, whose

families are in attendance, will be read along with recognizing hometowns and branches of service. The keynote speaker will be Chaplain (COL) Patrick Moore.

Kewpie creator Rose O’Neill inducted into 2024 Toy Industry Hall of Fame

Submitted to Branson Globe

Rose O’Neill, creator of the beloved Kewpie Doll, has just been posthumously inducted into the Toy Industry Hall of Fame. A resident of Walnut Shade, O’Neill

became a famed illustrator, artist and inventor during a time in the early 1900s when women could not aspire to having successful careers. The first woman to publish a comic strip, O’Neill

conceived the idea for her Kewpies in 1909 while visiting her family home Bonniebrook in Walnut Shade. The little winged cherubic characters became an instant merchandising hit with dolls,

comic strips, books and a myriad of merchandise featuring her adored Kewpies. Their popularity remains high even today. In 2022, O’Neill was honored by her induction into the

Will Eisner Comic Industry Hall of Fame and in 2019 she was inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame honoring her contributions as a key figure in the Suffrage Movement. Rose O’Neill was

truly a woman ahead of her time. Visitors can view her art, learn about her amazing life and contributions, as well as tour her home Bonniebrook, located at 485 Rose O’Neill Road in Walnut Shade.

Reader’s Corner: Learning about Jewish culture

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer

Several ministries that I follow exist to foster fellowship between Christians and Jews around the world and especially in Israel. Recently, their newsletters have shared information about Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Rosh Hashanah marks the start of the Jewish New Year, annually in the fall. This year, it was observed September 15 through 17 to start Year 5784. Rosh Hashanah is followed by Yom Kippur, “Day of Atonement,” 10

days later.

Reading the newsletters, I realized there is much I could learn about Jewish culture, including how that culture informs Christianity by connecting the historical accounts in the Old Testament to numerous references in the New Testament. Toward that end, I acquired a copy of “Rereading Matthew,” a 30-day devotional from The Israel Guys, a ministry that builds connections by making Christians more aware of their Jewish roots and coordinating work trips to help

farmers in Israel.

In the devotional, author Zac Waller examines passages from Matthew’s account of Jesus’ interactions with Jewish religious leaders and His followers, giving context about the Jewish background and daily life in which Jesus’ conducted his earthly ministry. Readers will gain new appreciation for Jesus’ statement that He came to fulfill, not do away with, the Torah; and new understanding for references to His “brothers.”

Waller also reminds

Always something happening at the library

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

This week at the Taneyhills Library, the Beginning Computer Class continues, teaching those in attendance the basics of computer use, allowing them to become comfortable and confident at the keyboard.

This is just one of the many classes offered by the Library. Miss Debi and her group of youngsters enjoyed making crowns following this week’s Story Time. Miss Debi presents Story Time each Thursday at 10:30 a.m.

readers that Jews have not always been treated well. Numerous books have been written by and about Holocaust survivors. My introduction to that topic was a middle-school unit on Anne Frank’s “Diary of A Young Girl,” published after it was found and given to Anne’s father, the only surviving member of his family after World War II. Anne’s words capture thoughts and emotions any teen girl experiences, but from the physical confines of hiding in an attic annex. This classic

Forsyth Library announces new hours, upcoming events

Submitted to Branson Globe

Forsyth Library announces new hours at the Library. Since COVID-19 hit, we have struggled to open up full time. Starting Monday, October 2, we are happy to announce we will start opening Monday through Friday 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The library thrift store, the “Markdown” will be open Monday through Friday 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the first and third Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to noon.

An upcoming annual fundraiser at the Forsyth

Library is our “Annual Festival of Trees.” The library welcomes donations of Christmas trees, wreaths, Christmas tree skirts or other items they dream up. We have received donations from individuals, 4-H group, churches and businesses. This is your chance to show off your creativity and style, so get ready, set and go. We will start taking donations Wednesday, November 1. Bidding will start November 1 and close Friday, December 1. Winners can start picking items

up December 4. Come visit Forsyth Library’s booth, Saturday, October 7, at Harvest Moon Festivities in the Shoals Bend Park. Come see the many things that are available to patrons at Forsyth Library.

The Forsyth Library is located at 162 Main Street in Forsyth. For more information, please call 417-546-5257, or see their Facebook page, www. facebook.com/ForsythLibrary.

read should still be required in middle-school or highschool English classes.

Another classic that emerged from the Holocaust years is Viktor Frankl’s “Man’s Search for Meaning.”

The 1946 book describes the author’s experiences as a prisoner in concentration camps, including his observations that inmates best able to survive were those most able to connect with a purpose.

Frankl’s observations about the completion of tasks, the act of caring for another person, and the conscious de-

cision to face suffering with dignity, are still considered foundational in the field of psychology.

“Rereading Matthew” is available through the Israel Guys store at https://theisraelguys.store; the classics mentioned are available at major online retailers, area libraries, or if you’re fortunate, used bookstores. Take time to learn more about Jewish holy days and the contributions made by Jews even in the worst of circumstances; you’ll be glad you did.

DISPLAY FOR CONSTITUTION WEEK AT TANEYHILLS LIBRARY – The Taneycomo Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution shared a powerful patriotic display with the patrons of the Taneyhills Library recently. The display, created by Cheryl Brown (left) and Cheryl Grant (right) celebrates Constitution Week, September 17-23. The display can be seen at the Taneyhills Library, 200 South 4th Street in downtown Branson. (Special to Branson Globe)

Beginning Computer Class, Story Time with Miss Debi (Photos by K.D. Michaels)

Raise your glass: Masters of Bourbon

Submitted to Branson Globe

Get ready for the ultimate bourbon experience this fall as the Masters of Bourbon series returns to America’s Premier Wilderness Resort, Big Cedar Lodge. From VIP Meet and Greets to exquisite tasting dinners, we’ve carefully crafted a lineup of events that will leave you with a profound appreciation for bourbon, delectable food and fantastic company. This is your chance to savor the finest spirits and make lasting memories right here in the heart of the Ozarks!

See below for details on our fall seminars and tasting dinner events:

Friday, September 29

Patron Dinner: We invite you to Arnie’s Barn at Top of The Rock at 6 p.m. as we dive into the world of tequila with Patron’s Director

of Education, Antonio Rodriguez. Discover the artistry behind their tequilas, perfectly paired with a delectable fourcourse tasting menu. It’s a night of tequila perfection meant to be savored with your loved ones. ($98 per person).

Thursday, October 5

VIP Meet & Greet with Holladay Bourbon: Kick off the Masters of Bourbon with a VIP reception from 6 p.m.-7 p.m. at the newly opened Harry’s Cocktail Lounge on the lower level of Worman House, featuring Holladay Bourbon cocktails and small bites by the Big Cedar culinary team. Meet Master Distiller Kyle Merklein and get ready for an unforgettable bourbon journey. ($198 per person).

Holladay Bourbon Tasting: Join Master Distill-

returns

to Big Cedar Lodge

er Kyle Merklein from 7 p.m.-9 p.m. for an exquisite evening as he guides you through special expressions of his Holladay Bourbon while you enjoy a four-course dinner at the Historic Worman House. Great food, great conversations, and of course, great bourbon! ($145 per person).

Friday, October 6

• Old Forester Bourbon

Tasting Dinner: Indulge in an evening of ‘Whiskey Row’ bourbons and a five-course tasting menu at the historic Top of the Rock End of the Trail All-American Wine Cellar. Discover the impact of Old Forester on American bourbon history. Begin with a masterfully mixed cocktail handcrafted by the Old Forester’s top innovators in the intimate stone walls of Top

of the Rock’s All-American wine cellar. Then, dine with your newfound friends and enjoy a five-course tasting menu alongside specially selected expressions of Old Forester Bourbon. ($145 per person).

Saturday, October 7

• Horse Soldier Bourbon Seminar: Join the heroic Mark Nutsch, a former U.S. Army Ranger, and Special Forces Officer, for a unique bourbon tasting experience at the Bass Pro Shops Shooting Academy. Hear his stories and savor premium bourbon. Today, Mark is a Brand Ambassador for the international award-winning ultra-premium Horse Soldier Bourbon brand. ($65 per person).

• Heaven Hill Tasting Seminar: Immerse yourself in the best of Heav-

Male Vocalist of the Year - Shane Van Camp, Branson’s Famous Baldknobbers, Branson Famous Theatre Instrumentalist of the YearForrest Herzog, America’s Top Country Hits, Americana Theatre Texas Pioneer AwardButch Rawlins

• Texas Pioneer AwardScott Whitaker

• Pioneer Award - Tim Mabe

en Hill’s bourbon portfolio. Taste the history, culture, and craftsmanship behind Elijah Craig, Larceny, Bernheim and Rittenhouse Rye. ($65 per person).

A Tasting Conversation with Dave Jennings: Explore a diverse selection of Wild Turkey and Russell’s Bourbon with the guidance of David Jennings, a passionate spirits writer and critic. He’s known as the go-to expert on Wild Turkey Bourbon, with his books, “American Spirit: Wild Turkey Bourbon from Ripy to Russell” (2020) and “WildTurkey Musings: A Whiskey Writer’s Retrospective” (2023), offering unparalleled insights into the brand’s history. ($65 per person).

• Holladay Bourbon: An Exploration in Real Missouri Bourbon: Delve

Humanitarian of the Year - Jack and Peter Herschend

• Lifetime Achievement Award - Bud Lynn Living Legend AwardBarbara Fairchild

The Mayor’s AwardMarshall Howden Little Big Show - Sons of Britches, IMAX Little

Opry Theatre Drummer of the YearBrian Duvall, On Fire - The Jerry Lee Lewis Story, Copeland Theatre

deep into the world of bourbon with Master Distiller Kyle Merklein. Discover the secrets of Missouri coopers and sample unique Holladay Bourbon expressions that have never been offered to the public for tasting. This seminar is a must for bourbon enthusiasts! The event runs from 4-5 PM ($65 per person).

• Masters of Bourbon 4th Annual Signature Event: Join us for the 4th Annual Masters of Bourbon Signature Event from 5-9 PM at the Bass Pro Shops Shooting Academy. Experience a celebration of tradition with great food, cocktails, craft beer from Ozark Brewing Co., live music, cigars and more than 30 expressions from the finest distillers. It’s bourbon, food, and camaraderie at its finest! ($120 per person).

Keyboard Player of the Year - Jim Garstang Pierce Arrow, Pierce Arrow Theatre

• Steel Guitar Player of the Year - Michael T. Hermsmeyer, Nashville Roadhouse Live, Nashville Roadhouse Theatre

Tribute Show of the Year

- On Fire - The Jerry Lee Lewis Story, Copeland Theatre

• Bass Player of the Year

- Brian Zerbe, Legends In Concert, Dick Clark’s American Bandstand

Theatre

• Vocal Group of the Year

- Pierce Arrow, Pierce Arrow Theatre Vocal Duo of the YearClay and Tina Cooper Clay Cooper’s Country Express, Clay Cooper Theatre

Gospel Group of the Year - New South, Ozark

Gospel, Grand Country

Music Hall

• Production Show of the Year - SIX, Dick Clark’s American Bandstand

Theatre

• Morning Show of the Year - Doug Gabriel Morning Show, Branson Famous Baldknobbers Theatre

• Matinee Show of the Year - Back to the Bee Gees, Hamners’ Variety Theatre Show of the Year - The Haygoods, Clay Cooper Theatre

• Entertainer of the YearRick Thomas, Mansion of Dreams, Mickey Gilley’s Grand Shanghai Barry Arwood closed out the event along with representatives from the branches of the military with a patriotic salute to Veterans and active military. The Branson Globe would like to congratulate each of the winners.

• TERRY AWARDS

Continued from page 1B

Lake Cruise Rentals: The portal to Lake Taneycomo adventures and memories

BY GARY J. GROMAN, Independent Journalist

Lake Taneycomo, resulting from the construction of the Powersite Dam in 1913, is a 23-mile-long narrow man-made impoundment of the White River, stretching from the base of Table Rock Dam to the Powersite Dam. Its natural beauty, scenic vistas, and accessibility make it an ideal destination for cruising and relaxing. The chilly 48-degree water coming through the hydroelectric power generators at Table Rock Dam and the

Shepherd of the Hills Trout Hatchery combine to offer a Rainbow and Brown Trout fishery as renowned for its informal, family-friendly “creel filling” fishing as it is for its trophy trout.

Lake Cruise Rentals (Lake Cruise Rentals) and Scotty’s Trout Dock and Marina (Scotty’s) are your portals for access to all the fun, excitement, and adventure Lake Taneycomo offers. Near each other on the shores of Lake Taneycomo, Lake Cruise Rentals is at Branson Landing. Scotty’s

is about two minutes away at the city of Branson’s Lakeside RV Park, immediately south of Branson Landing. Whether it’s a peaceful day of sightseeing and cruising, kayaking, a thrilling ride on one of their other water vehicles, or fishing for Lake Taneycomo’s legendary Rainbow and Brown Trout, Lake Cruise Rentals and Scotty’s have you covered.

Both Lake Cruise Rental and Scotty’s provide the same excellent customer service, marina amenities, and pontoon boat and kay-

ak rentals. Still, the primary emphasis of each is different. Lake Cruise Rentals at Branson Landing focuses on cruising, kayaking, water sports and other non-fishing services. Scotty’s Trout Dock and Marina emphasizes trout fishing and marina services, including gas, boat, slip rentals and guide services.

Lake Cruise Rentals and Scotty’s provide an unbeatable pontoon boat rental experience. Whether for fishing or cruising, their spacious pontoon boats with

individual capacities of up to 10 or 14 each can accommodate just about any size group. The pontoons have a cruising and fishing-friendly design, with the engine power to meet Taneycomo’s changing currents. Their deluxe configuration includes Bimini tops, Bluetooth, comfortable lounge-style seating, a table, revolving fishing seats, rod holders, live wells, depth finders, cup holders and more. Whether looking for a peaceful day out on the water or an exciting fishing excursion, Lake

Cruise Rentals and Scotty’s have the perfect pontoon boat. An exhilarating kayaking adventure on Lake Taneycomo is available through kayaking rentals at Lake Cruise Rentals and Scotty’s. Their kayaks offer a comfortable and adventurous sightseeing or an excellent fishing platform. Besides just straight paddling, there is an option for renting a kayak you can peddle like a bicycle and/ or paddle. The bicycle peddling provides for hand’s

SEE LAKE CRUISES, PAGE 4C

Is this going to blow through or set in?” It was Labor Day, and we were on the lake a long way from our dock when storm clouds sur-

Dave Ramsey’s EntreLeadership: The concept is the same

Dear Dave, I know when it comes to personal finance, you’re a big fan of living on a written monthly budget. Should you do a small-business budget the same way you do your household budget?

— Joseph

Dear

Joseph,

The concept you’re working with is the same, but they’re still a little bit different. When it comes to a small business, you’re trying to project your income and

expenses, thereby projecting your profit for the month and the next two months after that. Those three months make what we call a quarter.

If you’ve been in business for a while, you can reach out further than that and usually do a reasonably accurate job of projecting the entire year.

It all really just comes down to this: You still have to plan your income and your outgo. Some small-business owners tend to forego long-term planning and live hand to mouth

and crisis to crisis. Sure, they may look at the profit and loss statements, but that’s kind of like looking in the rearview mirror while driving. Budgeting’s not rocket science. The budgeting and planning don’t have to be super sophisticated, as long you’re realistic about how much revenue you’re generating and your operating costs.

A lack of planning and handling money properly— making money behave by projecting revenue, expenses

and those kinds of things— are the main reasons most small businesses fail. Then, the owners turn around and blame “cash flow problems.”

That’s a pretty vague term, and in most cases, it’s a bunch of double-talk. It’s usually coming from someone who borrowed money and couldn’t make the payments or had too much money going out and not enough coming in.

You’ve got to project into the future and think about what you’re going to do and

how you’re going to make it happen. That’s really all a small-business budget is. You’re saying, “Realistically, this is what we should make this month, and this is what we should spend this month.”

It’s what I tell my team when they’re doing budgets. And when you think about it, it’s not even goal setting so much as it’s having a knowledgeable and informed conversation with the marketplace.

I hope this helps, Joseph! — Dave

Stock Market Insights: Waiting out the Fed’s forecast

prisingly popped up. It’s easy to get surprised by the weather on Table Rock Lake with its high bluffs. It looks like the Federal Reserve is watching the forecast and trying to get inflation to blow through and not set in as well.

Last Wednesday, the Federal Reserve paused rates again for the second time in three meetings. The stock market expected the pause but still dreams of the days ahead when the Fed begins to lower rates.

Instead of lowering the rates, the Fed paused because they thought the econ-

omy is still “too strong,” and there aren’t enough companies laying employees off. Yes, you read that right. The government’s plan to slow down inflation is to cause economic pain. So, they will keep their rates higher for a longer period to make us buy fewer cars and buy/ build fewer houses to slow the economy and get inflation under control.

This might turn out to be less of a “pause” and more of a “skip.” Since the economy is stronger than expected, the Fed hinted it might skip this meeting and even raise its rate

one more time in this cycle. While listening to the press conference, I could almost hear my Dad’s voice before my spanking, saying, “This is going to hurt me more than you.” But this time, I believe these decisions will hurt the average American more than the government.

It’s interesting to note that the Fed has shifted its statement language from saying “higher” to saying “longer” to convince the market that they are serious about keeping higher rates for a longer time. This means consum-

ers aren’t going to get relief on rates anytime soon, or at least until the economy starts slowing.

I began this year bullish on stocks, and the market bounced back as expected. Yet, I’ve become more cautious about stocks as the year has progressed. At this time, I believe in the near term that, bonds have become more attractive when it comes to the potential risk/ return trade-off. I still see opportunities in stocks, which is why I have my accounts in a more balanced position. We made it back to the

boat dock without any problems, though the wind made it bumpy. Though the storm lasted longer than expected, it blew through while we ate lunch. But the strange thing is that after the storm finished, the lake was empty. All the boaters were scared off by the storm threat, and when we went back out, we had the lake to ourselves. I think in the same way, this high rates season, though longer than we expected, will blow through and reward those who wait it out. Have a blessed week!

www.FerventWM.com

Bank hosts Veteran Rise and Shine event on October 5

Submitted to Branson Globe

In a community such as this, where values like respect and patriotism are held in high regard, Branson Bank will honor four area veterans for their service to country and community.

Each veteran was selected throughout 2023 as a Bran- son Bank Veteran of the Quarter and will officially receive their public recognition by way of flag raising.

On Thursday, October 5, the community is invited to join the local community bank at their Highway 248 location just before 7:30 a.m. to witness the recognition of local veterans Amanda Hoenes, USMC; Clarence Sowards, USMC; Ronald Rowden, U.S. Army; and David McAllister, U.S. Navy. The bank’s large, garrison-sized flag will be raised in their honor by the Branson High School Air Force Junior ROTC under the command of Master Sergeant Quinton Atwood.

“We are thankful for our area veterans and honored to recognize them and share their respective stories,” said Bill Jones, President/ CEO, Branson Bank. “The service and sacrifice of these men and women can never be repaid entirely, yet we offer our sincere gratitude to these individuals and their respective families.”

Larry Milton, Mayor of Branson, will be in attendance to help welcome and honor these individuals for their service and sacrifice, in addition to Bob Smither, who will play Reveille as the flag raises.

The ceremony will begin promptly at 7:30 a.m. Additional parking is available in the parking lots of Hobby Lobby and Harbor Freight. For more information about the Veteran of the Quarter program or to nominate a local veteran, please visit www.bransonbank.com.

SEPTEMBER 26

Indigo Sky Casino

SEPTEMBER 29

Downstream Casino

BY DAVE RAMSEY, CEO, Ramsey Solutions, and an eight-time No. 1 national best-selling author, and host of The Ramsey Show

DR. RICHARD BAKER, AIF®, is the founder of and an executive wealth advisor at Fervent Wealth Management. https://www. facebook.com/Dr.RichardBaker

2021 Rise and Shine event (Special to Branson Globe)

BY HEATHER

Many homeowners thinking about selling have two key things holding them back. That’s feeling locked in by today’s higher mortgage rates and worrying they won’t be able to find something to buy while supply is so low. Let’s dive into each challenge and give you some helpful advice on how to overcome these obstacles.

Challenge #1: The Reluctance to Take on a Higher Mortgage Rate

According to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), the average interest rate for current homeowners with mortgages is less than 4% (see graph above right).

But today, the typical 30year fixed mortgage rate offered to buyers is closer to 7%. As a result, many homeowners are opting to stay put instead of moving to another home with a higher borrowing cost. This is a situation known as the mortgage rate lock-in effect.

The Advice: Waiting May Not Pay Off

While experts project mortgage rates will gradually fall this year as inflation cools, that doesn’t necessarily mean you should wait to sell. Mortgage rates are notoriously hard to pre-

dict. And, right now home prices are back on the rise. If you move now, you’ll at least beat rising home prices when you buy your next home. And, if experts are right and rates fall, you can always refinance later if that happens.

Challenge #2: The Fear of Not Finding Something to Buy

When so many homeowners are reluctant to take on a higher rate, fewer homes are going to come onto the market. That’s going to keep inventory low. As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), explains:

“Inventory will remain tight in the coming months and even for the next couple of years. Some homeowners are unwilling to trade up or trade down after locking in historically-low mortgage rates in recent years.”

Even though you know this limited housing supply helps your house stand out to eager buyers, it may also make you feel hesitant to sell because you don’t want to struggle to find something to purchase.

The Advice: Broaden Your Search

If fearing you won’t be able to find your next home is the primary thing hold-

Dave Says: What’s fair to everyone concerned?

ing you back, remember to consider all your options. Looking at all housing types including condos, townhouses, and even newly built homes can help give you more to choose from. Plus, if you’re able to work fully remote or hybrid, you may be able to consider areas you hadn’t previously searched. If you can look further from your place of work, you may have more affordable options.

Bottom Line: Instead of focusing on the challenges, focus on what you can control. Let’s connect so you’re working with a professional who has the experience to navigate these waters and find the perfect home for you.

When you’re ready to sell too, let’s connect.

Heather Tankersley, REALTOR®, Keller Williams Tri-Lakes. 417-332-5130. Office: 417-336-4999.

DearDave, About a year ago, my husband and I offered an empty house we own to a young man at our church, who had lost his home and everything he owned in a fire. He has taken good care of the place, but has made no effort to pay rent. We don’t need the money because we’re in good shape financially, and we were thinking about selling the other house, anyway. I’d like to simply write it off, and gift the home and title to this young man, but my husband feels he owes us something for putting a roof over his head all this time. What are your thoughts?

Penny

Dear Penny, I think you and your husband have good hearts. I also think you handled

this situation poorly.

From the sound of things, you put him there originally on a charity basis, and now your husband wants to change the deal. You didn’t set up any kind of rental agreement, but your husband feels you two are owed something? I’m sorry, but no. That’s on you.

At this point, you have some big decisions to make. Were you providing free housing to someone who was struggling, or were you providing a free house to someone who was struggling? I understand this young man experienced a terrible tragedy. But at the same time, I’m not hearing lots of evidence that he’s putting his life back together. If after this long the guy’s not back on his feet and out on his own,

you may be enabling bad behavior on his part.

Now, if you want to gift him the house, that’s your decision. If you want to approach him with a rental agreement or sale proposal to which all parties are amicable, that’s okay, too. If neither of these ideas are in the cards, I’d make sure to sit down with this young man and have a gentle— but firm—talk. I’d let him know I had been happy to help him over the last several months, but that he needs to start moving forward with his life. I’d set a very reasonable and patient timeline for a moveout date, and let him know once that time is up, I’ll be selling the house.

That’s fair to everyone concerned.

Dave

—

TANKERSLEY, REALTOR®, provides services for residential, commercial, land and lake properties in the Branson Tri-Lakes area.

PACT Act Workshop guides veterans to benefits they deserve

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff

Writer

The Veterans of the Ozarks (VOTO) and the Veterans and Military Coalition of the Ozarks (VMCO) co-sponsored a free PACT Act Workshop on Saturday, September 23, in Kimberling City. A team of three Veterans Administration personnel, three nurses from the Branson VA Clinic, two telehealth representatives, and the Table Rock American Legion Post 637 Veterans Service Officer to provide toxic exposure screenings and other

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free movement and steering, making it ideal for fishing and less strenuous than paddling.

Another exciting water vehicle available at Lake Cruise Rentals at Branson Landing is one of its Craig Cats or Water Bikes. The Craig Cat is an easy-to-operate power catamaran that combines the stability and speed of a larger boat with the agility of a personal watercraft. Craig Cats deliver an exhilarating ride, perfect for those craving excitement on the water. A water bike offers a more tranquil and eco-friendly alternative. This human-powered “vessel”

benefit enrollment services to local area Veterans.

The PACT Act (Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics) expands and extends eligibility for VA healthcare to veterans with toxic exposures and veterans of Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras. Survivor benefits are also addressed. Among the Act’s provisions are the following:

• Adds 20-plus more presumptive conditions for burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic exposures;

enables pedaling through the water at your own pace while enjoying the serene beauty of Lake Taneycomo.

Branson Landing is one of Branson’s most incredible attractions from both a shopping and entertainment perspective. Lake Cruise Rentals at Branson Landing’s premier water valet service is a game-changer for Lake Taneycomo boaters seeking convenience, safety and an unforgettable time at Branson Landing.

Just pull your boat up to Lake Cruise Rentals’ dock. Their skilled and courteous water valets will take charge of it, ensuring it is safely docked and secured as you experience Branson Landing. After enjoying Branson

Requires the VA to provide toxic exposure screenings to every veteran enrolled in the VA healthcare system;

• Helps improve research, staff education, and treatment related to toxic exposures.

• A monthly VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (VA DIC) payment: You may qualify if you are the surviving spouse, dependent child, or parent of a veteran who died from a service-connected disability.

Landing, you can return to your boat and continue your Lake Taneycomo adventure.

Scotty’s Trout Dock and Marina is a full-service marina on the southeast corner of Branson’s Lakeside RV Park.

It’s your “one-stop” place for everything you need to make your trout fishing outing successful. A seasoned angler or a beginner, our staff can provide you with advice on the baits and lures the trout are currently taking, some of the best spots to fish, fishing tips, and answer your questions.

Its tackle shop is a onestop headquarters for everything you need to go trout fishing on Lake Taneycomo.

From licenses and permits to one of the lake’s largest selections of artificial trout

A one-time accrued benefit payment: You may qualify if you are the surviving spouse, dependent child, or dependent parent of a veteran who was owed unpaid benefits at the time of their death.

• A survivor’s pension: You may qualify if you are the surviving spouse or dependent child of a veteran with wartime service.

All area veterans who feel they may have been exposed to any toxins, regardless of combat experience or era of

lures, flies, jigs, terminal tackle, rods, reels, worms, minnows and night crawlers, Scotty’s has it all. The shop’s knowledgeable staff is always available to help you choose the right equipment and bait and give you advice to help you entice even the most finicky trout.

Scotty’s delivers a unique pontoon boat rental experience for anglers or anyone wanting to cruise Lake Taneycomo in a pontoon boat. Its impressive, roomy pontoon boats can comfortably accommodate groups of various sizes, with individual capacities ranging from 10 to 14 passengers. While meeting the needs of the most demanding angler, these boats are great for both fishing and cruising. They feature swivel fishing seats, rod holders, live wells, depth finders, cup holders, retractable Bimini tops, Bluetooth connectivity, plush lounge-style seating, a table, and many oth-

service, are advised to get a screening and be placed on the presumptive list.

The Veterans of the Ozarks (VOTO) is a Servicemen’s Organization with open membership for all veterans, military retirees and active duty military, regardless of era of service. For more information contact VOTO President Dave “Mac” McAllister, 417-230-1283.

VOTO is grateful to Kimberling City Elks Lodge 2505 for their continuing and ongoing support for Veterans

er amenities.

Scotty’s also offers fully equipped bass boats perfect for fishing or cruising the lake. Whether you’re seeking an exciting fishing adventure or a tranquil day on Lake Taneycomo, Scotty’s has the ideal boat to suit your needs.

Our guide service is second to none in providing an incredible trout fishing experience on Lake Taneycomo. All our guides are U.S. Coast Guard licensed and insured and have modern, well-equipped boats set up to provide an exceptional and memorable trout fishing experience. They have an in-depth knowledge of the lake and fishing and provide valuable tips and teaching to help you catch trout on Lake Taneycomo by yourself after the trip is over.

Scotty’s also offers a “Branson Landing Fountain Fire, Light, Music, Water

of the Ozarks providing not only a meeting place but also meals for their monthly membership meetings.

VA staff were pleased with Saturday’s turnout, one of the largest of the workshops conducted so far in southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas with over 30 veterans and their spouses assisted. If you are a veteran and were not able to attend, contact VOTO or your county Veteran Service Office to learn more about these valuable benefits.

Cruise,” each evening. It departs Scotty’s on one of its luxurious pontoon boats. It cruises up to the Branson Landing Fountains to view its spectacular show from a perspective few get to see. Experience incredible geysers towering into the air amid a display of fire, lights, and music, all synchronized and choreographed into this oneof-a-kind show. Reservations are required, and the evening departure times will change as the season changes.

The strategic alliance between Lake Cruise Rentals at Branson Landing and Scotty’s Trout Dock and Marina provides an unparalleled experience for visitors to Lake Taneycomo. This collaboration ensures that all guests can enjoy various water-based activities on Lake Taneycomo, from cruising and kayaking to fishing, thrilling rides on various water vehicles, and a unique water valet service for visiting Branson Landing.

For more information or to make reservations, please contact Lake Cruise Rentals at 417-332-0367 or visit their website at https:// www.lakecruiserentals. com. For Scotty’s information or reservations, call 417-334-4288 or visit their website at https://scottystroutdock.com.

BRANSON

v

New downtown market celebrates grand opening

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

A unique new specialty store has opened in downtown Branson. The Ana Maria Mexican Store and Meat Market is located at 114 East Atlantic Street. The shop celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting event last week.

Owned by Norma and Omar, the Mexican Store and Meat Market offers a variety of products,

“This is a Hispanic store. We have all sorts of

Hispanic products—meat that is already seasoned for Carne Asada, and also produce, and anything that you need to cook a good Hispanic dish at home,” said Norma, through a translator.

The location is also home to a food truck, adjacent to the shop, serving delicious Hispanic food items.

Said Norma, “The food truck has all sorts of food—gorditas, tacos and

other things. You need to come and try it out.”

Pablo Loaisiga served as translator during the ribbon cutting event.

“I’m actually their pastor. I’m just here for moral support,” said Loaisiga. “Norma and Omar are always hanging around at the store. When you come here, you’ll see their smiling faces.”

The Ana Maria Mexican Store and Meat Market is open daily from 9 a.m.

to 9 p.m. The food truck hours are from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day.

An online Google listing for the Ana Maria Mexican Store and Meat Market states, “We are a store thinking about our community. We have a variety of Hispanic products, meats, chicken, vegetables, fruits, money transfers. We have deliveries. Come and see the store. We are waiting for you.”

Much anticipated Wrangler’s now open in Branson

talked about night spot.

Wrangler’s is a unique Branson venue, complete with dinner, dancing and amazing live music nightly.

Dinner is served from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., with Ozarks favorites including fried catfish, smothered chicken, fried shrimp, BBQ, burgers and more. After 9 p.m., a limited menu featuring delicious appetizers is offered.

Live music and dancing begins at 8 p.m. each evening. Enjoy the area’s best country music featuring Melody Hart and the All-Star Band, with classic country, Texas Swing, ‘80s and ‘90s country and today’s popular hits.

BY

Texas wins again at PBR Thunder Days

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

For the second year in a row, Thunder Ridge Nature Arena hosted Thunder Days, a Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Camping World Team Series event. Thousands of spectators—local residents and visitors alike—enjoyed the three-day experience.

Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, surrounded by the captivating Ozark Mountains, was a dream of Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris. This unique amphitheater seats 20,000 and is located at Big Cedar Lodge in Ridgedale. It hosts some of the biggest talent and largest events in the country. Thunder Ridge is also home to the Missouri Thunder Professional Bull Riding Team, also owned by Morris.

The Missouri Thunder PBR team is Andrew Alvidrez, Marcelo Proopio Pereira, Luke Parkinson, Joao Lucas Campos, Kade Madsen, Eduardo Matos, Felipe Furlan, Andy Bohl, Paulo Eduardo Rosseto, Manoelito de Souza Jr., Qynn Andersen and Briggs Madsen.

Final standings following this weekend’s PBR Camping World Team Series at Thunder Ridge are: Texas Rattlers

2-1-0 (601.50), Arizona Ridge Riders 2-1-0 (531.25), Missouri Thunder 2-1-0 (527.25), Carolina Cowboys 2-1-0 (338.75), Austin Gamblers

1-2-0 (435.00), and Nashville Stampede 1-2-0 (424.50).

In the championship event on Sunday, the Texas Rattler stood above the other teams, winning Thunder Days for the second consecutive year.

Melody Hart is an award-winning vocalist and fiddle player. Hart is a featured performer in the Down Home Country Show at Branson’s Grand Country Music Hall

and has been named Branson’s Fiddle Player of the Year three times. Hart’s husband, Wayne Massengale, known for his work with the late musica legend Roy Clark is a 14-time winner of Branson’s Fiddler Player of the Year. Massengale also spent several years as a part of the Grand Country Music Hall family. The couple’s oldest son, Garrett Massengale, has been recognized for his drumming prowess, being nominated three times for Drummer of the Year. He began performing at a young age and is already a wellknown name in Branson’s musical scene. Youngest son Dillon Massengale, who made his Grand Ole Opry debut last

year, was recently named Arkansas CMA Young Artist of the Year. A talented vocalist and bass player, Dillon had the privilege of recording with music legends Rhonda Vincent, Junior Brown and Leona Williams.

Popular Branson musicians Dino Strunk and Robby Springfield round out the All-Star Band. Eight-time Guitarist of the Year Dino Strunk has worked with such artists as Joe Diffie, Johnny Lee and Mickey Gilley. Strunk is largely recognized as one of the top guitarists in Branson. Robby Springfield, an award-winning member of the Steel Guitar Hall of Fame, is a respected figure

in the music industry and has performed for many country greats including Dwight Yoakum, Brooks and Dunn, Jo Dee Messina and Billy Dean.

Wrangler’s Star Studded Honky Tonk is currently open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday for dinner and live music until midnight. Wrangler’s features a full bar and the area’s largest dance floor. With all it has to offer patrons,Wrangler’s is destined to be known as the area’s most popular spot for live music.

Wrangler’s Star Studded Honky Tonk is located at 625 State Highway 165 in Branson. For more information, call them at 417-544-1405 or visit them on Facebook.

Ana Maria Mexican Store and Meat Market celebrates its ribbon cutting (Photo by K.D. Michaels)

K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

A much anticipated Branson venue is now open for business.

Operated by Branson en-

tertainers Wayne Massengale, Melody Hart and their sons Garrett and Dillon, Wrangler’s Star Studded Honky Tonk is destined to be Branson’s most

Wrangler’s is open! (via Facebook)

Tanger Branson invites schools to apply for 2023 TangerKids Grants Program

Submitted to Branson Globe

Tanger Branson continues its tradition of investing in the local community and helping area students succeed with the launch of the 2023 TangerKids Grants Program. Applications are now open and will be ac-

cepted through Oct. 15. Taney County educators are encouraged to apply at grants.tangeroutlets.com.

The platform invites teachers and leaders within the community to identify their needs and request funding to enhance programs and

better serve students as they work to create a more productive and inclusive learning environment.

Throughout the program’s history spanning over 27 years, Tanger has contributed more than $3 million to school-focused initiatives in

the communities it serves. In 2022, Tanger awarded nearly $160,000 to fund over 140 grants to schools and programs across the U.S., supporting equipment upgrades, inclusion initiatives and more.

This year, Tanger has earmarked 70% of total grants

for support of underserved schools, accessibility programs and student needs. Faculty members at public and private schools from pre-K to grade 12 are eligible to participate in the annual program.

Tanger Branson shoppers will again be invited to help

choose grant winners in their community through Member’s Choice voting, which will be open Nov. 27 – Dec. 10. Award recipients will be announced in January 2024 and celebrated at the center’s annual TangerKids Day.

Mission with vision: Table Rock Lake Lions Club preps recycled eyeglasses for global missions

Submitted to Branson Globe

The Table Rock Lake Lions Club sorted and boxed nearly 500 pairs of eyeglasses Tuesday at their monthly gathering. The glasses will make their way to people in need all over the world.

KIMBERLING CITY ELKS 2505 PRESENT CHECK TO VETERANS OF THE OZARKS – On September 18, Exalted Ruler Doug Mayhew, right, presented VOTO President David “Mac” McAllister, a check for $1,000, courtesy of the ENF grant. This money will go toward the Veterans Helping Veterans programs which specifically helps veterans in crisis. The donation will allow VOTO to train and certify two of their members as QPR Suicide Intervention and Prevention instructors. (Special to the Branson Globe)

“We’re so happy to collect old prescription eyeglasses that are still in good repair,” said Vision Chair Donna Stanton. “They can give the gift of better vision to someone who has no way to get new ones.”

The collected glasses

came from boxes around the area. These recycling boxes include the Senior Center, Walmart, eye doctors’ offices, and some banks.

“Most of the glasses go around the world,” said Stanton. “Some stay here in the U.S., going to indigenous American reservations and other places.”

If you have outdated prescription eyeglasses in good condition (no broken arms or lenses), please bring them to one of the drop boxes. You may find the complete list on the TRL Lions Facebook page at Facebook.com/TRLLions.

GET FREE FOOD, GROCERIES, $10 GAS ON YOUR 1ST VISIT. CALL 417-337-3772

Club members preparing eyeglasses are pictured left to right: Marie Tesreau, peace poster contest chair; Marilyn Schoenborn, historian; and Donna Stanton, vision chair. (Photographer Ronda Del Boccio, president)

Central Bank serving up

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

The staff and management of Branson’s Central Bank are happily serving their customers in a different way.

The bank hosted their 28th Annual Customer Appreciation Cookout last week.

Customers flocked to the downtown branch of Central Bank to enjoy a fun-filled cookout—complete with cheeseburgers, hotdogs, chips, cookies and beverages—all prepared and served

lunch

by bank associates. It was a way of saying thank you to the bank’s loyal customers.

More photos from the Master Gardeners Fall Garden Workshop on September 16

Clockwise, starting at far right: City of Branson Landscape Specialist Amy Jackson offered tips about choosing trees and shrubs; This adorable garden made from broken pots was popular with raffle ticket buyers; The plant booth is always popular; Someone always gets to take the centerpiece home, based on some random factor such as closest birthday or most miles traveled to the workshop; Just a few of the raffle items (Photos by Cynthia J. Thomas)

IT’S LUNCH TIME! Lunch is prepared and served by staff at Branson’s Central Bank. (Photos by K.D. Michaels)

Worship Directory

lassifieds

CELEBRATE RECOVERY is a place to heal from your hurts, habits, and hangups. We meet every Monday night at 6:30 PM at Music City Centre, 1839 West 76 Country Blvd., Branson. For more information call 417–320-2055 See you there!

IF YOU ARE A MILITARY VETERAN in need of a place to live, please call us and we’ll try to meet your needs. GUMI CAMP USA 417-559-3892

Don’t miss the 2023 edition of The Best Bets of Branson Live Talk Show, featuring Carrie Anne Mitchell and Shelley Carroll-Drew, every Thursday at 11:15 a.m., inside the lobby of The Nashville Roadhouse Theater. We’re also streaming live on Facebook, Tik Tok, Instagram, and soon, on YouTube.

Our 2023 live talk show season is all about marketing, promoting and advertising everything about Branson & the surrounding Ozarks area, done from a unique 2-person, local perspective, with a fun, positive spin. As well as watching us online, we invite everyone who can to come in person, and watch us do our show live, for free! No tickets required.

Brought to you by our sponsors: Affordable Insulation Service, Bliss Gas Services, The Branson Show Awards, The Consignment Clothing Exchange, El Lago On 248, Flaming Margaritas, Gaga

For Glitter, The Great Passion Play, Isom Hunt, The Krafty Kitty Farm, LKS Lawncare, MarieZ, METAGOLF, Michele’s Floral & Gifts, Mintex Appliance Service, The Nashville Roadhouse Theater, SignsNow, Sweet Shack and Tequila’s. Contact Carrie @ 573-795-1921, or Shelley @ 417-593-9815 to find out how to become a sponsor of our live talk show.

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.

ALZHEIMER’S ASSO-

CIATION SUPPORT

GROUPS meet at location

#1: Branson United Methodist Church, 1208 West 76 Country Blvd. Branson, the first Thursday of every month at 1:30 PM; and at location

#2: Branson Hollister Senior Center, 201 Compton Dr., Branson, the third Friday of every month at 1:00 PM For more information about either support group, you may call 417-598-3122.

YOUR AD WOULD LOOK GREAT HERE! CALL 417-334-9100

GRIEF SHARE SUP-

PORT GROUP: IN AUGUST, 2023 a new class of Grief Share will begin at the Branson United Methodist Church Aug. 22. This is a 13 week class of support for those who have lost loved ones. We welcome all ages from the community as well as our church family. For questions call Peggy at 641-919-1533. The class will meet every Tuesday at 1 p.m.in the church library.

THE AMERICAN LEGION

Eliminate high heating bills with Central Boiler’s

NEW, certified Classic Edge Titanium HDX OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE. Call Ozark Stove and Chimney today. 417-201-6585

SERVICES OFFERED

MASTER ELECTRI-

CIAN. No job too big or small. FREE ESTIMATES. Ph. 417-337-1747. FREE ESTIMATES AND TIMELY RESPONSE. Full remodels, decks, pole barns, garages, fencing and small projects. Call 417-699-1635.

FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, September 29 and September 30, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Furniture, German nutcracker, Christmas store décor and miscellaneous. 156 Hackberry Ln. Branson.

COUNTRY FARM ESTATES NEIGHBORHOOD GARAGE SALE. 65 S. to Highway 86, left at stoplight, left on Thunderbird, right on Fruit Farm, 1 mile on left. September 29, 7 a.m. - 3 pm.; September 30, 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.

FOR SALE

FOR SALE: 42” CUB CADET LAWNMOWER with matching dump trailer, 36” lawn Roller, 46” lawn thatcher and a pull-Behind fertilizer spreader. 18-speed Bicycle and 10” table saw. Call 815275-8688.

FOR SALE: FLAT 1.7 ACRES IN TOWN. Cute farmhouse/ development. Shop buildings / RV / No HOA. Reduced, now only $399K. AMS Associates, LLC Aaron Schaffner, MBA Broker/ Agent 417-230-0576.

MATCHING SOFA AND RECLINER CHAIR, locking gun cabinet, stereo cabinet, tents, exercise equipment, Pioneer Elite 48” TV. Kimberling City. 303-709-6061

FOR LEASE: OFFICE, STORAGE AND COMMERCIAL SPACE ON BUS. HWY. 13 in Branson West. Over 1,000 sq. ft. available. Various sizes and reasonable rates available. Call 417-248-0062.

APTS/CONDOS/HOMES

GUMI CAMP, a healing retreat for American Veterans, is in need of a dog caretaker. Paying weekly. Please call Tim Hadler at 417-559-3892.

BRANSON SCENIC RAILWAY OPENINGS

FOR SALE: 43” SAMSUNG TV, asking $115 OBO. Call 417-791-3082 or 417-320-1055.

RENT TO OWN AUTOS: Low down payment. NO initial taxes & license fees. NO credit check. Free 1 year warranty on motor & transmission. Rent to own your auto today! 1119 E. Hwy. 76, Branson. 417-3355400. renttoownautosbranson.com

ROOMS FOR RENT

GREEN MOUNTAIN INN OFF MAIN STREET. Great location, close to everything. ZERO DEPOSIT with proof of job and good rental history. Under new management. $690 per month, prorated from move in date. Includes utilities and internet. Great deal! Will fill up fast!! Leave a message at 417-336-6700.

WANT TO BUY AN AS-IS HOME in Kimberling City? Call 417-739-1929.

FOR RENT: Nice 2 bed/1 bath walk-in apartment. Excellent location, all appliances included. $800/mo. No pets. 417-339-7777.

FOR RENT: 2B/2B WALKIN CONDO in Fall Creek. Beautifully decorated and furnished. Updated clean end unit that’s private and quiet. Smoke/vape free, no drug use, no pets and no drinking. Must be able to pass a background and credit check. $1,050/mo. Text or call 307630-7833.

STYLISH 1,000 SQ UPDATED LAKE CONDO on Taneycomo with 1 bedroom/2 bath, living/dining, new kitchen, paint, wood-like floors, window treatments, walk-ins, low fees, pics/info & MLS #60245910, $138,000. Call 239-851-3700.

LUXURY 1 & 2 BR APARTMENT HOMES

1-1/2 BATHS, POOL, REC. ROOM

• Seeking FT Custodian. Duties require facilities and grounds upkeep. Mechanically inclined with attention to detail. Pre-employment drug screening.

• Are you ready to ride the rails? Full-Time Train Attendants needed to graciously assist our passengers.

It is time for HOT, HOT CHOCO-LATE: Now hiring for The Polar Express. Wanted: SINGERS, HOT CHOCOLATE AND COOKIE SERVERS and happy people who want to have a good time working on The Polar Express. Departures Nov. 3 through Dec. 23. Apply in person: Branson Scenic Railway, 206 East Main Street. 9:30 AM – 4 PM, Mon. - Sat.

POINT LOOKOUT

NURSING & REHAB is excited to announce that we are currently hiring RNs, LPNs, CNAs, NAs, CMTs, housekeeping, and dietary staff. We are currently offering a great benefit plan. We acknowledge Covid-19 vaccination exemptions. For more information, call 417334-4105 or apply in person at 11103 Historic Hwy. 165, Hollister, MO. EOE

FIFTH WHEEL FOR SALE BY OWNER: 2021 Wildwood, Forest River, Heritage Glen Elite 36FL, luxury fifth wheel. Sleeps 6. 1.5 baths, 4 slides, full gourmet kitchen plus elite outdoor kichen w/TV, Warranty until 4/26. $65k. Branson. Call Ben, 417-699-1133.

WEEKLY MOTEL ROOM RENTAL: Family friendly. Deposit and rule agreement required. Cable/WiFi, fridge and micro included. Branson West 417-272-8414.

1 BR STARTING @ $595/MO

2 BR STARTING @ $725/MO

Furnished Units, Carports & Lakeviews Available CALL 417-546-3334

Shepherd of the Hills Estates www.soheapts.com

HELP WANTED: Looking for a senior service coordinator at a Branson upscale private day facility. Duties are:

• Social agenda

• Concierge support Snack prep & serve Wellness checks 40/hrs. and may work some weekends. $16/$20 per hour If interested please call 417230-9190 or email Rosehouse8959@gmail.com. Therosehouse-branson.com

RAZORBACK PROFESSIONAL WINDOW WASHING AND CLEANING. Businesses, hotels, some residential. Free estimates. Branson. Phone 870-421-9651.

ACE HOME IMPROVEMENT: Heating and air, HVAC service and repair, doors, windows, decks, fences, pressure washing, interior and exterior painting, siding, roofing, flooring, tile and drywall. Handyman work! Call Ryan: 417-335-1347.

GET FREE FOOD, GROCERIES, $10 GAS ON YOUR 1ST VISIT. CALL 417-337-3772

Classified ads in the Branson Globe are super affordable! Black & white line ads, 20 words or less...$15/ week! Each word over 20 is 25¢

• Add color to your line ad, 20 words or less...$20/week! Each word over 20 is 25¢ Call 417-334-9100, or place your ad online at bransonglobe.com/advertise

417-334-9100

FOR SALE: SCATTER GUN Tech/Wilson Combat Remington 11/87, 18” and 26” barrels, $1,100. Must see, 708-609-0447.

OFFICE HOURS: 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday

On this date in history...

1916 American oil tycoon John D. Rockefeller becomes world’s first billionaire

• 1927 Tornado strikes St. Louis, Missouri, 85 die

1953 “Milton Berle Show” premieres on NBC in the U.S.

1957 Buddy Holly & The Crickets release second single: “Oh Boy!”/”Not Fade Away”

• 1962 “Roy Rogers & Dale Evans Show” debuts on ABC-TV

1962 President John F. Kennedy authorized use of federal troops to integrate U. of Mississippi

• 1966 The Chevrolet Camaro, originally named Panther, is introduced

1972 Robert McNamara, former U.S. Secretary of Defense, is almost thrown overboard on a ferry by an artist wanting to confront him on his role in escalating U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War (no charges pressed)

• 1984 Elizabeth Taylor undergoes rehabilitation at the Betty Ford Clinic; meets construction worker and future husband Larry Fortensky

• 1986 Mary Lou Retton retires as gymnast

• 1993 27th Country Music Association Award: Vince Gill wins

• 2009 An 8.0 magnitude earthquake near the Samoan Islands causes a tsunami

2020 First debate between U.S. Presidential candidates Donald Trump and Joe Biden held; widely criticized as chaotic and ill-tempered

Native to the Ozarks

Word find from Beck Museums of Branson

Sudoku

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