Branson Globe, November 17, 2023

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”– Joshua 1:9

Your source for local news and entertainment

November 17, 2023 • Volume 4, Issue #46

INSIDE:

• Around Town.... 12B • Churches.......... 10C • Classifieds......... 11C • Fun & Games.... 12C • Photo Gallery...... 8B • Voices ................ 1B • Weather........... 11A

PLUS:

Kristallnacht museum exhibit opens – SEE PAGE 3A.

Branson Air Force Junior ROTC (Photo by K.D. Michaels) SEE MORE PARADE PHOTOS IN OUR PHOTO GALLERY, PAGES 8B and 9B.

Veterans Day Parade attracts many spectators Can you imagine heaven? SEE PAGE 1B.

TERRYS DISCOUNT TICKETS

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer Thousands of Branson area residents and visitors made their way to downtown Branson on Saturday for the annual Veterans Day Parade.

Under overcast skies, the 91st annual parade followed a route along Branson Landing Boulevard and turned

on Commercial Street before ending at the Branson Convention Center.

The parade included marching bands from several area schools and numerous floats honoring the veterans who fought for the freedoms we enjoy.

Several veterans’ groups

including Branson Veterans of America 913 and American Legion Post 220 participated in the parade, greeted with cheers and applause.

Vocal group SIX was a parade favorite, with their uniquely painted Camaros.

The parade also included the Greater Ozarks Mustang

Club, and several classic cars and military vehicles.

State and area leaders, including Mayor Larry Milton and wife Lianne, State Representative Brian Seitz and his wife Valerie, and Missouri Governor Mike Parson and wife Teresa, were all a part of Saturday’s parade.

Grand Marshall for the 2023 Veterans Day Parade was Brad Johnson, President of College of the Ozarks.

The Annual Veterans Day Parade is the grand finale of a week packed full of activities honoring veterans and their spouses, during Branson’s Veterans Homecoming Week.

Branson provides millions in tax incentives for Disney Immersive developments

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Military Gala ends Veterans Week in Branson – SEE PAGE 1C

WEEKEND WEATHER:

Pleasant temps for November, with highs this weekend in the low to mid-60s, and overnight lows in the 30s to 40s. Chance of rain Sunday night.

8

By Gary J. Groman, Independent Journalist At its November 14, 2023 meeting, the Branson Board of Aldermen passed an ordinance allowing the mayor to execute a “Sales Tax and Tourism Tax Reimbursement Incentive Agreement for Branson Mill and Heartland Center Projects in Branson, Missouri,” (Agreement). The two projects, the “Disney Immersive” and “Mammoth Field,” will be on opposite sides of Gretna Road in Branson Meadows, where “Big Air Trampoline” is currently located.

Disney Immersive will be at 3300 Gretna Road, and the Mammoth Fieldhouse Project will be at 3299 Gretna Road. The Agreement covers both projects and refers to them as the “Development Projects” and their individual developers as the “Developer.”

“Branson Mill, LLC, will develop the Disney Immersive Project in the current Big Air Trampoline Park. The 29,446-square-foot immersive project is like

the Van Gogh exhibits that have been popular in Kansas City and St. Louis. It’s a $6 million redevelopment of the Big Air Trampoline Park. Estimates expect the project to bring in over $19.3 million in sales and tourism tax throughout the Agreement and will add to the “leasing and development momentum of the Gretna/ Shepherd of the Hills corridor.”

In the same vein, Heartland Center, LLC, and Mammoth Construction will develop the Mammoth Fieldhouse Project, an approximately 42,000 square-foot recreational and entertainment facility on a nine-acre site along Gretna Road, across from Branson Mill. The facility will offer golf, pickleball, food and beverages.

Estimates expect the $41 million development to bring in over $19.2 million in sales and tourism tax over the period of the Agreement and will also encourage additional development in Branson Meadows.

The Agreement proSEE INCENTIVES, PAGE 2A

John Baltes (Photo courtesy Silver Dollar City)

Final bow for John Baltes: ‘It’s always been about the kids’ Submitted to Branson Globe When John Baltes turned off his light at the Silver Dollar City Foundation last week, he was at peace with what he accomplished in that office – the little white house on Highway 76 that was once Mary Herschend’s home.

The dark office shined a light on an amazing 50-plus year career that took him from Sea World to Silver Dollar City and later as the founder of a Foundation that’s raised more than $2.3 million for local children.

“How blessed I am that I’ve had basically two 25year careers,” Baltes smiles.

“I was able to make money for theme parks for the first part and give money away in my second part.

It took both of those parts to equal the steady, confident leader John is to this day. He reflects on his journey with many smiles, some somber pauses, and lots of laughs.

As he watches Silver Dollar City this week turn into a Christmas wonderland, he remembers back to how that all

started when he was the park’s general manager. It was in the early 1990s when a casual conversation turned The City into what would become a top holiday destination.

“Jack Herschend wanted to do some type of Christmas festival at the park but wondered whether people would come,” Baltes laughs. “Would it be too cold? Would people bundle up their kids and come out? I joke that he gave me $100,000 to create someSEE BALTES, PAGE 4A

2A • NOV. 17, 2023

NEWS

bransonglobe.com

Holiday Food Harvest gives a hand up to those in need

A member of the gun salute squad presents the empty shell casings to Kathy Strong and Barbara Moreland Bagby. (Photo

by Cynthia J. Thomas)

Tribute plaque placed at Veterans Memorial Garden

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer A plaque honoring a former MIA Vietnam soldier is now on display at Branson’s Veterans Memorial Garden. In a special ceremony on Thursday, November 9, during Veterans Homecoming Week, Kathy Strong presented the plaque bearing the name of James Moreland, whose POW/MIA bracelet she wore for 38 years.

As described in a recent Globe story, Moreland, a Special Forces member, was declared missing as of February 1968, and Kathy Strong received the bracelet for Christmas in 1972. Moreland’s family finally received closure in 2011 when his remains were found and sent home for burial and a memorial service. Strong, who had been in close contact with Moreland’s sisters thanks to her story being widely circulated on the internet, attended the memorial service and decided to sponsor a plaque in Moreland’s honor, leading to her eventual goal of honoring him in all 50 states; Missouri marked #34.

Several veterans were on hand for the presentation.

Dick Burkhalter of Branson Veterans of America 913

presided over the presentation ceremony, and Branson Civil Air Patrol members presented the colors.

Strong was happy to be joined on her Branson visit by James Moreland’s cousin, Barbara Moreland Bagby, plus Barbara’s granddaughter, Cailey, and their dog, Wally. As Strong shared her story, she gave a moving account of one tribute presentation in which families went onstage for each presentation. She thought she would be there alone, as none of Moreland’s family could be present, but then realized that every Vietnam veteran in the audience was making their way to join her as “family.”

Garden director Jana Evans thanked Strong for selecting Branson as the site for the Missouri tribute plaque, and invited those present to see other new additions, including the Blue Star Memorial, as well as beautiful pansies marking the transition to the winter season.

The Garden is located at the intersection of 76 Country Blvd. and Roark Valley Rd. in Branson; it is a wonderful place to stop by and remember and meditate.

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer Each year a group of local businessmen and women team up with a media company to help those in need in our community.

The annual Holiday Food Harvest, a joint effort between the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors and Ozarks Dynacom, is set for next week.

“This is our 18th year working together with KRZK Radio,” explained Janet Bezzerides, of Boeker Group Real Estate, representing the Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors.

“They were doing it for at least 25 years before that.

They started it in the early ‘80s in response to a request from the local food pantries.”

The Holiday Food Harvest will take place the day before Thanksgiving, when realtors will be stationed at grocery stores throughout the lakes area, collecting nonperishable food items and cash to help local food pantries give a hand-up to those in need.

“Food and cash go directly to the two largest food pantries—the Salvation Army and CAM. This year, CAM is taking over the Stone County needs, previously met by Christian Associates.”

The realtors will be stationed at Sunfest, Country Mart and Rhodes Family Price Chopper in Branson; Country Mart and Harter

House in Hollister; Country Mart in Forsyth; Harter House in Kimberling City; and King Cash Saver and WalMart in Branson West, where they will graciously accept donations throughout the day.

“Cash goes the farthest, as the charities are able to buy directly from the Ozarks Food Harvest Food Bank in Springfield, at up to 10 cents on the dollar for staples,” Bezzerides explained. “Beyond that, nonperishable proteins like canned tuna, chicken, and products like beef stew, chili, peanut butter, and boxed macaroni and cheese are great.”

The realtors will hand out a list of suggested items at the door so that shoppers

can purchase donations as they do their pre-Thanksgiving shopping. Cash donations can be given to the realtors at the food drive, or donations can be made online at www.branson4u. com. Just look for the Holiday Food Harvest Link to make a donation.

The Holiday Food Harvest is set for Wednesday, November 22, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Said Bezzerides, “No matter how little you have, someone is struggling by with less. Help us help those in our community that need a hand up. All of the donations stay right here locally.

There is no overhead cost for this event.”

Annual Love Your Neighbors meal is Thanksgiving Day

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer Elevate Branson’s traditional Thanksgiving Day dinner is set for next Thursday.

“This will be our 16th Annual Love Your Neighbors Thanksgiving Day event,” explained Olivia Darst, Vice President of Communications for Elevate Branson.

Elevate Branson volunteers serve up a delicious Thanksgiving dinner to those in the area who wish to come together on that day and enjoy a meal along with a sense of community. However, the not-for-profit organization is in search of more volunteers.

“We have over 100 additional volunteer opportunities left and would love to invite the public to come serve with us on Thanksgiving Day,” noted Darst. “We are expecting approximately 500 guests this year.”

Darst spoke of the importance of the annual experience. “This event impacts the community by providing a warm meal and a sense of belonging to our neighbors who may not have the means to make a Thanksgiving meal or may be spending Thanksgiving Day alone.”

Many area businesses and individuals help sponsor the annual Thanksgiving meal with financial contributions.

Said Darst, “Proceeds generated for this event not only contribute to making the event completely free for those interested in attending, but the funding also contributes to supporting our programs and services beyond just the holiday season.”

“We still have plenty of sponsorship opportunities available,” Darst continued.

“We encourage the community to consider sponsoring

a plate or a table to help ensure each of our neighbors has a warm meal and a welcoming place to celebrate Thanksgiving.”

The Love Your Neighbors Thanksgiving Day meal is set for Thursday, November 23, 11:30 to 1:30 at the Our Lady of the Lake Parish Center, 202 Vaughn Road in Branson.

If you would like to help sponsor this celebration or volunteer your services, or for information on attending the Love Your Neighbors Thanksgiving Day dinner visit ElevateBranson.Org.

• INCENTIVES

million, whichever occurs first. If the Development Projects cannot produce the full $10.3 million in 16 years, the City will not be obligated to pay the difference to the Applicant. The City will keep a 5% Administrative Fee for work performed to fulfill the City’s obligations under this Agreement, including processing the reimbursement and ensuring that State laws and Department of Revenue regulations are followed.”

The Agreement also provides that if the Development Projects are

reduced in size by equal to or over 20% of the projected square footage, the Developers will need to get approval from the City. Absent such approval, the city’s financial obligations will terminate.

Regarding marketing, the Agreement states, “After the Disney Immersive Project and/or the Mammoth Fieldhouse Project have opened for business, the City shall utilize each Project in tourism marketing and promotional materials throughout the term of the Agreement.”

When questions arose on

this provision, City Administrator Cathy Stepp said, “My understanding of that provision was that we had the permission of these entities to use them in our marketing and promotion for the city of Branson.” City Attorney Joe Lauber ratified that opinion. On November 8, 2023, Administrator Steep further clarified the city’s position, saying that the provision intends to show that the city would include the Development Projects in the marketing of Branson just like any other attraction, no more, no less.

Continued from page 1A

vides a $10.3 million incentive for the Developers to develop the Development Projects. The City of Branson agrees to “remit 100% of the City’s general sales tax revenues generated by the Development Projects and 25% of the City’s tourism tax revenues that are generated by the Development Projects to the Developers for 16 years, or until the total sales tax and tourism tax revenues that are remitted to the Developers have a cumulative value of $10.3

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bransonglobe.com NEWS

Branson

Globe

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer The Branson Globe will once again hold our annual toy and food drive throughout the holiday season to help our neighbors in need.

Each year our Branson Globe readers generously donate new toys and non-

toy

and

perishable food items to help the less fortunate in our community.

Toys that are collected are delivered to the Salvation Army for their annual Toy Shop distribution. Toys collected after the distribution days are given to

food

NOV. 17, 2023 • 3A

drive

House of Hope and to help other families provide gifts for their children.

Food collected is donated to Christian Action Ministries, who help those facing food insecurity in our community. Additionally, we stock the area Blessing

underway

Boxes in both Branson and Hollister with food to help area residents in need.

New toys and gift items and nonperishable foods can be dropped off at several area businesses. Drop-off points include The Flagstore (114 South Commer-

through

cial Street, Branson), Motel 6 (1023 West Main Street, Branson), The World’s Largest Toy Museum (3609 West 76 Country Boulevard in Branson), Scotty’s Trout Dock (400 Boxcar Willie Drive, Branson) and the Branson Globe Office

Dec.

22

(2460 South Business 65, Hollister).

The Toy and Food Drive runs through Friday, Dec. 22.

The staff of The Branson Globe sincerely thanks youfor your kind generosity during this holiday season!

Kristallnacht Exhibit now open at Faith, Family, Country Heritage Museum

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer On Thursday, November 9, a special exhibit opened at Faith, Family & Country Heritage Museum in Branson West to commemorate the anniversary of Kristallnacht, which means “glass night” and marks the beginning of Hitler’s barbaric attempt to exterminate Jewish populations in Nazi-occupied countries. Guests arriving at the opening were asked to pin on a gold star badge, symbolic of the badge Jews were forced to wear.

The 24-exhibit from Yad Vashem in Jerusalem, Israel, acknowledges the faith and contributions of the “Righteous Among the Nations,” families and individuals who worked to protect, hide, or smuggle Jews during the Holocaust. The Branson West display is sponsored by the Antisemitism Education Center of the Ozarks and will continue through Pearl Harbor Day, December 7.

As part of the exhibit opening, museum founder and curator Jim Zbick was presented a gift of framed souvenir headlines about the Holocaust

by Shirah Miriam “Mimi” Aumann, founder of the Antisemitism Education Center.

Zbick, whose father served as a liberator of the concentration camps following World War II, decided to put his journalism and museum experience into founding an educational museum in the Ozarks, and

Mimi Aumann presented a souvenir collage of newspaper headlines to curator/founder Jim Zbick. (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas) to incorporate a Holocaust remembrance room, complete with several artifacts.

In an interesting coincidence, Aumann showed up at the museum’s grand opening and ribbon cutting.

Aumann’s late husband was a Holocaust survivor, and she founded the Antisemitism Education Center to honor those who suffered and were lost and to promote educational events helping ensure such horrors do not happen again. As it became evident Zbick and Auman shared common goals and concerns, they decided to work together on this exhibit, with more educational projects planned for the future.

One of Mimi Aumann’s friends attending the exhibit opening, Meike Aton, shared interesting insight with the other attendees. Meike, a native of Frankfurt, now lives in Springfield, Missouri. Her parents attended elementa-

ry school in Germany with Jewish children, and Meike recalls her mother describing childhood friendships that were interrupted because of their Jewish heritage or their parents’ political connections. Among her mother’s papers, Meike found school assignments in which children had to do research and prove they had no Jewish heritage. She also recalls her mother saying children were asked at school what their parents had talked about at home the night before.

The capacity crowd at the museum for the exhibit opening agreed that Aton’s comments underscored the need not only for education, but for vigilance to make sure similar exploitation of schoolchil-

dren does not occur again.

Also at the opening, Christopher Mann, whose family ministry “For Zion’s Sake” helps distribute supplies, shared about his upcoming trip to Israel to assist with needs among Israeli children.

“Now is the time to make a stand,” he told those gathered.

The “Righteous Among the Nations” designation has been given to 28,217 individuals and families as of 2022.

They or their surviving representative are given a plaque in acknowledgement and gratitude after being vetted by the Jerusalem organization. The exhibit is displayed according to strict specifications. As an example of those represented, Panel 17 is devoted to a Japanese consul to Lithuania, referred to as “the Japanese Schindler,” who was heartbroken by what he saw happening and personally handwrote Jewish visas until he was ordered out of the country.

The Museum is located at 15025 Bus. Hwy. 13 in Branson West and is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily except Wednesdays and Sundays. Visit the Facebook page for other photos and updates. In addition to the Kristallnacht exhibit, you’ll want to allow time to browse the artifacts and memorabilia of America’s military

and cultural history, with special emphasis on 20th-century events including another notable November event, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. It’s not all sad events, though; there are some wonderful artifacts commem-

orating the Pony Express and vintage baseball!

This museum is an excellent educational field trip for families or school groups, offering visual support to learning from our history. Plan a visit soon!

Pets of the Week

Tri-Lakes Humane Society, Reeds Spring Call (417) 272-8113 or visit tri-lakeshumanesoc.org

YOSHI. Female, DOB 1-3-2017. This beautiful calico likes to be petted but being picked up is not her thing. Her owners moved and couldn’t bring her, so she was left behind. She will likely enjoy a quieter home based on her personality. Come check out this great girl.

LUCA. Male, DOB 9-1-2021, black Labrador Retriever. This poor guy was found as a stray. He has a quirky personality and is the life of the party. He is such a sweet boy. He wants love and attention and is ready to go to a forever home.

My name is Snuggles (because I love to snuggle)! I love chasing my toy mouse and watching the birds and talking back to them!

Meet Snuggles Our November Pet of the Month

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4A • NOV. 17, 2023

NEWS

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Oak Ridge Boys honored by City of Branson

The Oak Ridge Boys (oakridgeboys.com)

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer The legendary music group the Oak Ridge Boys were honored recently with a proclamation naming November 9 as Oak Ridge Boys Day. The proclamation recognizes the many contributions the musical super group has made to the music industry, especially in the genres of country and gospel music, and celebrates their commitment and devotion to the music mecca of Branson.

City of Branson Aldermen Marshall Howden and

Clay Cooper joined the Oak Ridge Boys on stage at the Mansion Theater for the Performing Arts to present the proclamation, signed by Mayor Larry Milton.

The Oak Ridge Boys Day, November 9, is the latest in a long list of days honoring Branson area entertainers and those who helped make Branson the Live Entertainment Capital of the World.

Many of these special days have been proclaimed

by Mayor Milton and the current city leadership; however, some were pro-

nounced by previous Branson leaders, dating back to the early 1990s.

“Last year I did a Freedom of Information request and researched this, so if an entertainer had a special day named in the past we wouldn’t forget that,” noted Alderman Marshall Howden, Founder of the Song of Hope Movement and the Mayor’s Ambassador to the Branson shows. It was with Howden’s encouragement that many of these special days have come to pass.

• April 27: Mabe Family Baldknobbers Day

• May 4: Harold Bell Wright Shepherd of the Hills Day • June 2: Acrobats of China Day • June 30: Presley Family and Country Jubilee Theatre Day • July 11: Ray Stevens Day • July 24: Dino Kartsonakis Day • August 8: Mel Tillis Statesiders Day • August 31: Shoji, Dorothy and Christina Tabuchi Day • October 8: Johnny Lee Day • October 16: Sons of the Pioneers Day • October 17: Jim Stafford Day • November 8: Tony Orlando Yellow Ribbon Day • November 9: Oak Ridge Boys Day • November 19: Glenn Robinson Grand Country

Day • December 2: Mickey Gilley Day • December 3: Yakov Smirnoff Day • December 13: Buck Trent Day Additionally, the first week of December is known as the Andy Williams Moon River Week.

“In 2023, we also celebrated The Braschlers on the week of April 27 to May 4, which we celebrate annually as Musical Founders Week,” noted Howden.

Howden continued, “This special project which we call the Song of Hope Days, named after our movement to advocate for Branson’s live music shows and theaters has been a dream come true. I would have never been able to accomplish this without the help of such a ‘pro-shows’ mayor in my friend and

ally, Larry Milton. These entertainers played a huge role in making Branson the beloved destination that it is today, and they will be remembered annually by our city until the end of time.”

Howden and Clay Cooper were privileged to bestow the latest proclamation, jointly, to the Oak Ridge Boys.

Said Howden, “Alderman Clay Cooper joined me on stage to proclaim Oak Ridge Boys Day, and Clay got a front row seat to how excited this proclamation made them. He shared with me after we left the stage that when I started reading their career accolades, they began to swell with pride! They deserve this honor and it was the joy of a lifetime to be able to share the stage with them for this historic moment.”

• BALTES

could the Foundation fill?

“That’s when we really took a hard look at rural schools.

The needs were so great,” he says. “Teachers were using their own money to help students with basic needs like medicine, coats and shoes.

That wasn’t right, so in 2006, the Foundation started Care For Kids from that void.”

In its early years, the goal of the Foundation was to simply meet those physical needs.

“Those were the stories.

We knew we wanted to tell the story of the kids,” John says. “Once we started listening to the stories – from the bus drivers to the teachers – it then became obvious it wasn’t about the money.

Each one of those things was an act of love. The children knew they were loved by the act of kindness. Love and hope became the story!”

And, while John’s own story at the Foundation is in its final chapter, he knows there’s so much more to write.

“I think back on 18 years of Care For Kids. That’s five classes of kids who graduated after having the program in their school from kindergarten through 12th grade.

They don’t know school without it. I hope no child in our communities ever have to know school without it.”

John thinks a lot about the kids from the stories he’s shared through the years.

“My hope is that, all those years ago, we helped a child who grew up to give back to someone else to keep the circle of love going. That’s success. That’s love. That’s all I could ever ask for.”

John’s next chapter will carry on his deep appreciation of agape love and God’s will. He’ll move forward in a volunteer role as director of Ozark Mountain Legacy, a group dedicated to championing core values in our area.

“There is something about this community that draws people here. Legacy is about preserving the hospitality and love that people find here. People don’t come back here for the rides or shows. They come back for the people, the hospitality. We don’t treat people like they are important, we believe in our hearts they are important. That is a different level of hospitality, that’s love. That gives people hope.”

John hopes his next journey will be another 25-year chapter in his career.

“Don’t laugh, it could happen,” he smiles. “My dad had four family members make it past 100 years old. That’ll put me right there. As long as I’m making an impact, there’s no way I’m slowing down!”

Continued from page 1A

thing magical but said don’t spend it all. And $99,900 later, the rest is history!”

Helping pioneer An Old Time Christmas is John’s greatest accomplishment from that first part of his career, he says.

It’s that second part, though, that turned his hard work into “heart” work.

At the time, Silver Dollar City was giving to various charities in the community.

“But, we wanted to have a huge impact,” he recalls.

“We brainstormed how we could consolidate our giving into one place to help the most people so, in 1996, we launched the Silver Dollar City Foundation.”

John and his team researched what needs weren’t being met in the community by other charities. What gaps

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NEWS

NOV. 17, 2023 • 5A

6A • NOV. 17, 2023

NEWS

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Hollister Schools honor vets during special event

tribute to those who served.

“The Hollister Counselors Team organized the program,” explained Kim Connell, Communications Director for the Hollister R-V School District. “Guest speaker was Mr. Rick Ziegenfuss, City of Hollister Administrator and Retired Army Corporal.”

Students performed a variety of musical selections for Friday’s assembly. The Hollister Blue Harmony SingYOUNG PATRIOT – Kindergarers, the HHS Show Choir, ten student Melab Shumey led performed the National Anthe Pledge of Allegiance.(Spethem. The Middle School cial to Branson Globe)

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer The Hollister School District offered a very special assembly for students in observance of Veterans Day. Attended by all Hollister staff and students, from Pre-K through 12th grade, as well as area veterans and their families, the assembly was designed to honor local veterans and to show students the importance of Veterans Day, including paying

Choir and Cub Choir shared their rendition of Grand Old Flag and God Bless America.

The Hollister High School Band presented a touching patriotic medley and Hollister Sophomore Ashley Sansoucle offered Taps.

Prior to the morning assembly, approximately 25 veterans enjoyed breakfast, compliments of the Hollister School District.

All veterans in attendance enjoyed the event, meal and interaction with the students.

“The Hollister R-V School District expresses

our deepest gratitude to the veterans who have served our nation with courage and dedication,” said Connell.

“Their sacrifices have not only protected our freedoms, but have also been a shining example of selflessness and bravery to our students. At Hollister R-V School District, we are committed to instilling these values in the next generation. To all our veterans in the Hollister community and beyond, we say ‘thank you for your service.’ You are truly the heart of our nation.”

Holiday Home Tour to benefit area families in need

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer Neighbors and Friends of Table Rock Lake are excited to announce their 22nd Annual Christmas Tour of Homes, scheduled for Friday and Saturday, December 1 and 2.

If you enjoy being inspired by beautiful decorating ideas, making new friends, and helping with a great cause, you don’t want to miss this special event! Homes will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days, and the Holiday Boutique, held at Kimberling Area

Library in conjunction with the tour, is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days.

Proceeds from the annual event are used to fund grants awarded each year to nonprofits that meet needs and provide valuable services to area families. These groups serve a wide range of needs such as substance abuse counseling, addressing food insecurity, supplementing access to dental care, funding Cents of Pride stores for area students, assisting victims of domestic abuse, showing support for lo-

cal law enforcement, and much, much more.

NFTRL member Pam Berneking is one of those opening her home to this year’s tour guests. Pam and her husband were no strangers to the lake area when they moved to the Ozarks a few years ago from the Kansas City area—they had enjoyed childhood visits, and the family enjoyed the beauty of the Ozarks on trips for their two children to attend Kanakuk Kamps for many years, including stops to pick blueberries (and eat Thunder Muffins!) at Persimmon Hill Farm. When the now-adult children

landed in Springfield for college and work, retiring to the Ozarks seemed like the natural thing to do.

The Bernekings’ Lampe home was built in 1994.

Upon purchasing the house in 2017, they began enjoying the expansive lake views and surrounding hills on weekend and vacation trips, while planning and completing a remodel that led to moving in fulltime in 2020. On your visit, you’ll see design and craftsmanship by Travis Miller Homes and Nathan Taylor of Obelisk Homes, incorporating what Pam describes as “modern rustic,” using lots of natural

stone, and expanding the deck for enjoying the lake.

The Bernekings also enjoy gardening. “I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the area by participating in activities, including past Christmas home tours,” said Pam, who joined Neighbors and Friends shortly after moving to the area. “I found many ideas that we used in planning our own home!”

Tickets for the tour can be purchased online for $20 at www.nftrl.org, and picked up on tour days starting at 9 a.m. at the Library. While at the Library, you’ll also want to shop the Boutique, which features home-baked

Beautifully decorated tree (Photo courtesy Pam Berneking) goods, crafts and gift basket drawings. Lunch can also be purchased at the Boutique. On the website, learn more about grant recipients and also get information about joining this great group of friends.

SOTH Garden Club December meeting scheduled Submitted to Branson Globe The Shepherd of the Hills Garden Club (SHGC) invites everyone to attend the next regular meeting scheduled for 10 a.m. Thursday, December

7. The meeting location is the Clubhouse at Pointe Royale, 142 Clubhouse Drive, Branson. Featured presentation is “Reindeer Games” in celebration of the holiday sea-

son, presented by First Vice President, Jeanie Braun. The meeting will be concluded with the installation of officers for the 2024-2025 season. There is no charge to

attend, but there is a charge to join us for lunch immediately following. If you plan to attend, please RSVP to marketing@shepherdofthehillsgardenclub.org.

CAM receives capacity building grant to serve Stone County ROTARY CLUB SUPPORTS COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING DINNER – The Rotary Club of Table Rock Lake donated $500 to Shirley Mease to support her annual community Thanksgiving dinner.

This is the 14th year that Mease has prepared food for anyone who wants to attend. This year’s event is from 12-2 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day at Reeds Spring Intermediate School. (Special to Branson Globe)

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Submitted to Branson Globe Christian Action Ministries recently received a capacity building grant thanks to Ozarks Food Harvest’s $1 million investment in agency infrastructure in southwest Missouri.

The grant funding will provide food which will help their mobile food distribution in Stone County.

Through the grant, Christian Action Ministries will be able to supply groceries to over 1,500 individuals in

Stone County. Christian Action Ministries was one of more than 70 organizations chosen by Ozarks Food Harvest to receive an agency capacity grant to assist with hunger-relief efforts.

“This grant is a blessing, as the individuals we serve continue to deal with economic uncertainty,” said Michele Dean, Executive Director, Christian Action Ministries. “Since we began serving Stone County in June of 2023, we have

provided over 2,800 counts of assistance. Thanks to Ozarks Food Harvest, we’re able to continue our work of combating food insecurity in Stone County. Our partnership with Ozarks Food Harvest is special, by supporting our mobile distribution, they help us remove barriers for many of our neighbors in need.”

Ozarks Food Harvest is the Feeding America food bank for southwest Missouri, serving 270 charities across 28 Ozarks counties.

This capacity building investment is part of The Food Bank’s multi-faceted strategy to address needs identified in Missouri’s Food

Assistance and Hunger in the Heartland 2021 report conducted by the MU Interdisciplinary Center for Food Security.

“These grant funds are an investment in the future of our community’s food system,” said Bart Brown, president/CEO of Ozarks Food Harvest. “Increasing access to food is key as our network of hunger-relief charities continue to deal with the expanding cost of food and fuel.”

Last year, 47,544 individual cases of assistance were recorded – meaning nearly 600,000 meals provided in the more than two million pounds of food distributed.

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NEWS

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Area

news

school

Gibson Tech Professionals of the Month

E v e r y month, Gibson Technical Center recognizes students who excel.

These are the Professionals of the Month for NovemAbove, Devin Ruden; Below, Amelia Wickline ber: (Special to Branson Globe) D e v i n Ruden from Branson High School and Amelia Wickline from Reeds Spring High School. Both are enrolled in GTC’s Culinary Arts program.

Hollister School District recognizes City of Hollister The Hollister R-V School District presented the City of Hollister with its November Community Spotlight Award at the recent board of education meeting for its ongoing support and partLeft to right: Kathy Knight, Kelly Burgess, and nership. Dr. Jeramie Brannon accept the Community SpotJared Terry, light Award on behalf of the City presented by High School Hollister School Board Secretary Renea Daniels.

Principal, (Special to Branson Globe) and Mr. Mark Waugh, PK-5 Principal presented the award on behalf of the district.

SCHOOL NEWS

briefs:

Our

schools

Dr. Terry expressed gratitude to the City for their unwavering commitment to the school district and for their help each year with the Homecoming parade and bonfire. “I don’t know many communities in which the city will close the street through their downtown to allow students to have a parade and bonfire right in the center of town,” Dr. Terry said. Mr. Waugh shared that there is rarely a school event in which the city is not involved. “It might be Ms. Kathy, volunteering at every school event, or Ms. Denise serving as treasurer of the Hollister Schools Foundation,” Waugh said, “or department directors and their employees showing up to Welcome Wave or volunteer for Night of the Tiger.”

Dr. Terry and Mr. Waugh both reaffirmed that Hollister is truly a special place and that the people at the City of Hollister are integral in making it so.

Hollister’s November staff members of the month The Hollister R-V School District recognized the Hollister Early Childhood Center food service staff at the November board of education meeting as staff members of the month.

Mr. Mark Left to right: Cox, Anderson, Trinkle, and BOE Waugh, PK-5 Vice-President Josh Trinkle (Special to Branson P r i n c i p a l , Globe) presented the award to Meranda Trinkle, Heather Anderson and Alana Cox on behalf of the district.

Mr. Waugh shared that these ladies go above and beyond daily to make things fun and exciting for students and staff.

“These ladies take something even as simple as the lunch menu and make it fun and exciting,” Mr. Waugh said. “Each day, whether it is in their role in food service, at Tiger Academy, or driving a bus, these ladies go above and beyond to make our district a better place.”

Reeds Spring HS adds students to National Honor Society Reeds Spring High School inducted 34 new members into the National Honor Society on November 6. NHS recognizes students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of Scholarship, Leadership, Service and Character.

Members of the RSHS chapter must maintain a 3.25 GPA and perform seven and a half hours of community service each semester, including at least two hours of service to the

are

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awesome!

school. Members are invited to join NHS during their sophomore through senior years.

Congratulations to these new members: Austin Anderson, Samuel Carpenter, Keaston Chaplin, Brayden Colon, Victoria Davis, Brenneka Edelen, Evan Elwood, Madelynne Ellersick, Jaxson Gregg, Hoyt Gubin, Violet Hall, Jack Hamilton, Johnathan Hardman, Maxwell Hirschi, Bella Hittson, Caleigh Hogan, Mylah Hogan, Mariah Holt, Braiden Langston, Camirin Lee, Connor Love, Matthew Maher, Jordan Mayfield, Malacki McGregor, Landon Munhollon, Brody Pettigrew, Clayton Santos, Kreeden Smith, Lillyan Thomas, Calvin Waters, Cassandra Waters, Carleigh Wilson, Harley Wilson and Isabella Yartz.

Reeds Spring Elementary School Learners of the Month

Second grade (left to right): Caleb Gurule, Annabelle Miller, Finley Rogers, Taryn Patton, Jett Thamm, Cyrus Ely

Third grade (left to right): Killian Hines, Axle Watkins, Joshua Grimm, Triton Bernard, Rockell Bailey

Fourth grade (left to right): Elaina Sammon, Agnes Craven, JJ Pate, Colter Kite, Raymond Rodriguez Work underway on Wolf Pack Park Construction is now underway on Wolf Pack Park, a 125acre community space being built by Reeds Spring Schools.

At the groundbreaking ceremony on November 7, school superintendent Dr. Cody Hirschi said this project plants seeds for a thriving community.

“This park will serve as a linchpin for mental well-being, offering both a haven for quiet reflection and a hub for community connection,” Hirschi said. “It will enhance

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community cohesion, acting as a natural gathering place to strengthen the bonds between us.”

Wolf Pack Park will feature scenic walking trails, biking trails, a fully accessible playground, a picnic area, tennis courts, pickleball courts, a basketball court, and a disc golf course.

“For our vision to fully materialize, we require the continued support and financial backing of our entire community.

By investing in the park, you are investing in the future of our children and our community.”

The district is offering sponsorship opportunities for park equipment and playground structures. Portions of the park should be completed by the summer of 2024.

Reeds Spring HS Theatre department to perform ‘Matilda: The Musical’ Reeds Spring High School’s theatre department will perform Roald Dahl’s “Matilda: The Musical” from November 17-19. Show times are 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday. All performances will take place in the Reeds Spring Middle School Auditorium.

Ticket prices are $8 for adults, $5 for students, and children five and under are free. There is also a VIP ticket option for $25, which includes early seating, a picture with the cast, and a chance to win a theatre department swag bag.

Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance by contacting theatre director Derek Cook at dercook@wolves. k12.mo.us.

Reeds Spring Middle School student wins local competition in Peace Poster Contest Piper Ingle, a student at Reeds Spring Middle School, has taken the first step to becoming an internationally recognized artist by winning the local level in an international competition sponsored by the Table Pictured left to right: first place - Piper Ingle; Rock Lake Li- second place - Evan Jones; third place - Abby Gregg; fourth place - Isabella Aguirre (Special to ons Club.

Ingle’s post- Branson Globe) er was among more than 600,000 entries worldwide in the annual Lions International Peace Poster Contest. Lions Clubs International sponsors the program to emphasize the importance of world peace to young people everywhere.

Each year, students in schools and youth groups worldwide submit their representation of the current theme. This year, it’s “Dare to Dream.”

Table Rock Lake Lions Club President Ronda Del Boccio said, “We had an impressive group of entries, and it was hard to choose our winners.” The club met and voted on the top four entries, which received certificates of achievement.

The winner progresses to the Lions District M6, which covers SW Missouri.

The winners are: First place: Piper Ingle; second place: Evan Jones; third place: Abby Gregg; fourth place: Isabella Aguirre.

“This year, I’m excited to announce that we have collaborated with the Table Rock Art Guild and Gallery, so everyone can come see all eleven entries. Artist and Guild Director Diane Robbens and her husband and fellow Guild artist Gus also participated in the vote.

TRL Lions Peace Poster Chair Marie Tesreau, said she was impressed by the creativity of the students. “It is obvious that these young people dare to dream BIG dreams.”

NEWS

The winners were chosen for their originality, artistic merit and portrayal of the contest theme. The judging was held on Nov. 2 at the Kimberling City Hall Community Room.

Club President Ronda Del Boccio said, “We are cheering for Piper as she vies for the international grand prize,” Local winners advance to the district. “We hope she goes all the way to the top.”

One international grand prize and 23 merit award winners will be selected. The grand prize includes a cash award of U.S. $5,000 plus a trip for the winner and two family members to a special award ceremony. The 23 merit award recipients will each receive a certificate and a cash award of U.S. $500.

The Table Rock Lake Lions Club provides free eye appointments and eyeglasses for those in need across most of Stone County. For more information, visit their Facebook page at Facebook.com/TRLLions or call 575-737-8579.

Lions Clubs International is the world’s largest service club organization with more than 1.35 million members in 210 countries and geographical areas around the world.

Since 1917, Lions clubs have aided the blind and visually impaired and made a strong commitment to community service and serving youth throughout the world.

Reeds Spring School Nurse receives grant Reeds Spring High School will soon offer better care in the nurse’s office, thanks to a $1,000 grant from the Skaggs Foundation.

RS High School Nurse Rebecca Sutor plans to purchase a new recovery Reeds Spring High School Nurse Rebecca Sutor bed, which (left) receives a grant from Skaggs Foundation will allow stu- Board Member Nita Jayne Ayres. (Special to dents to sit in Branson Globe) an upright position when necessary.

“I have had several students in the past needing to recover from syncope or cardiac issues that would benefit from recovering in a more upright position,” Sutor said.

The grant is one of 33 that the Skaggs Foundation awarded to organizations in Stone and Taney counties. Since 2013, Skaggs Foundation has awarded more than $9.3 million in grants to improve health and wellness.

C of O to rebroadcast Fall Convocation with James Brown College of the Ozarks is now rebroadcasting the Leonard B. and Edith Gittinger Fall Convocation, featuring James Brown (also known as J.B.), which originally occurred on Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023.

Due to the overwhelming amount of interest, access to the rebroadcasting of the event is available online at James Brown - Fall 2023 Convocation (cofo.edu) until Dec. 8.

The convocation followed a fireside chat style, hosted by Dr. Brad Dolloff, dean of School of the Ozarks. Student athletes joined them on stage as J.B. answered questions about living a life of faithful influence. He also shared memories, life lessons, and stories from those who have impacted him most in his journey.

NOV. 17, 2023 •9A

Jennifer Costello, Executive Director of Gift of Hope; Cody Fenton, Branson-Hollister Rotary Club President Special to Branson Globe)

Branson-Hollister Rotary gives $2,560 to Gift of Hope Submitted to Branson Globe Branson-Hollister Rotary recently donated $2,560 to Gift of Hope, which will go towards a new Student Essentials program in the Forsyth and Bradleyville High Schools.

Gift of Hope facilitates a backpack food program in all local schools. Older students are not utilizing the program, so a new program was tailored to their needs.

A large portion of high school students are technically homeless, and are essentially raising themselves. When trying to find food sources for them, the options for healthy, age appropraite food were few.

Rotary Club President Cody Fenton said Branson-Hollister Rotary is happy to partner with Gift of Hope to launch the new program.

“Gift of Hope has a long history of helping area students through their Backpack Program,” Fenton said. “To be able to help provide seed money to this new aspect is wonderful.”

The aim of the project is to create a program which provides food items and hygiene products to high school students in need. The program will be designed to cater to students from low-income families, or those experiencing financial hardship who may not have access to basic necessities. The program will be implemented in partnership with high school administration and Gift of Hope.

The program will also include educational resources on nutrition and proper hygiene practices.

Bags, which can be picked up in the principal, superintendent or counselor’s offices, will contain food appropriate for high school students, as well as hygiene items. Students are more likely to access these items when they are in a more private location, such as the counselor’s office.

The program aims to ensure high school students have access to basic necessities, allowing them to focus on their education so they can succeed in school.

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DEATH NOTICES

Addis, Lawrence A. “Larry” 84 Branson Bennett, Rita Ann 74 Branson Dillon, Tony 90 Branson Gross, Shirley L. “Vonnie” 78 Branson Hale, Trevor 49 Blue Eye Hartin, Sheryl LaDawn 60 Exeter House, Karyn 75 Blue Eye

Cremations of the Ozarks Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory Cremations of the Ozarks Cremations of the Ozarks

Submitted to Branson Globe You can make the holidays a little brighter and a little warmer for nearly 1,000 students this year.

Donations will be used to purchase gift cards for families in need to help them buy Christmas gifts and essential items for their children.

By Stephanie Callahan, Owner/Lightspeed Electrical

trimmers, and other corded devices are often the culprits.

When a tool is old, sometimes the internal connections come detached from each other, and the safety of the internal bonding/ grounding becomes compromised. The GFCI outlet can sense the imbalance, and

Hudson, Philip Mark Lovelace, Jon Eric Major, Eric Sanders, Caleb D. Stein, Francis Bernard III Tate, Yvonne C. “Bonnie” Workman, Darrell

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61 Kissee Mills Cremations of the Ozarks 52 Bradleyville Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel 34 ----Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory 14 Bradleyville Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel 55 Branson Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory 66 Cedar Creek Cremations of the Ozarks 91 Springfield Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel

Branson Christmas for Kids 2023: You can help

‘Hi, it’s me! I’m the problem...’

I think we have all experienced a GFCI outlet that keeps tripping. As electricians, we get calls all the time from people requesting that we replace the GFCI outlet assuming it has gone bad because it keeps tripping. If it was ‘bad’ it actually would NOT trip or provide any power, so let’s look at the flip side of that problem.

Sometimes, it is the equipment that you are plugging in that causes an outlet to trip.

Power tools like drills, hedge

AREA OBITUARIES

Stephanie Callahan, Owner/Lightspeed Electrical

For more than 20 years, Branson Public Schools have been meeting the essential needs of students and their families around the holidays.

This “assistance program” was developed as a result of the area’s high poverty rate – with roughly 70% of students on the free and reduced

lunch programs.

In 2019, the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and CVB partnered with the school system and rebranded the initiative “Branson Christmas for Kids.” In the first year of the program, just over $600 was raised to buy essential items and Christmas

gifts. In year two, donations jumped to more than $1,500 to help local students in need.

Help make this Christmas one to remember for kids in Branson Public Schools.

Learn more/donate using this link: https://www.gofundme. com/f/branson-christmas-forkids-2023.

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will shut itself off to protect you from getting electrocuted.

If you are having trouble with a tripping GFCI outlet, try this simple test. Reset the BREAKER first, then reset the OUTLET, and then plug in something else, like a hairdryer or lamp. Does the outlet still trip off? If the answer is NO, then the outlet is not the problem - most likely the tool is.

If you still aren’t sure about why your GFCI trips, call the team at Lightspeed Electrical at 417-213-0015. We can help.

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Tanger Outlets Branson announce Black Friday deals, extended hours Submitted to Branson Globe Tanger Outlets Branson is gifting shoppers with early Black Friday deals and extended Thanksgiving weekend hours this season! Visitors looking to save on the

best gifts and holiday styles can stop by the center for the deepest discounts of the year all weekend, starting on Friday, Nov. 24 from 6 a.m.

– noon when TangerClub members can score access to

exclusive door buster deals from top brands including Under Armour, Crocs and more. Tanger Branson’s retailers are stocked and ready with the perfect presents at the best value to fulfill every-

one’s holiday wish lists.

• Black Friday door busters and extended weekend hours: • Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 23) CLOSED • Friday, Nov. 24: 6 a.m. –

9 p.m.

• Saturday, Nov. 25: 9 a.m.

– 8 p.m.

• Sunday, Nov. 26: 10 a.m.

– 6 p.m.

Some store hours may vary early morning on

Black Friday. Please check with individual stores to confirm opening hours.

Tanger Outlets Branson is located at 300 Tanger Boulevard, just nort of 76 Country Music Boulevard.

Junior Auxiliary offers support to children in Taney County Submitted to Branson Globe Does it pay to support the efforts of Junior Auxiliary of Taney County? Just ask Miah Norman and her amazing family! They did just that and won the right to Grocery Grab at Harter House Hollister!

Paul Norman won the shopping spree and asked for a designated shopper and chose his daughter, Miah.

Miah went on an AMAZING run and in three min-

utes flat piled her cart with just over $1,000 in groceries ($1,004.41 to be exact)! At the request of her dad, she picked up several turkeys.

When asked how many turkey dinners he was going to have, Paul replied “I’m giving the turkeys to my guys at work for Thanksgiving.” Paul was proud of his daughter for her efforts and stated “I know she will always remember this.”

Other winners of the

Grocery Grab were second place $100 gift card, Rachel Goeke, of Republic, MO and third place $50 gift card, Barbara Fleming of Hollister, MO. Josh Grisham did a Facebook Live feed for us on radio station KOMC, My 100.1. You can view Miah’s Grocery Grab run on their Facebook page or on Junior Auxiliary of Taney County’s Facebook page.

Junior Auxiliary of Taney

social gatherings, holiday celebrations, and special traditions just don’t feel right without the person they desperately miss, and may be painful reminders that their loved one is no longer here to celebrate.

Although this can be particularly difficult if the loss was a recent one, as the bereaved survivor

the pain can continue for years. Regrets can surface: An adult child remembers the time they couldn’t make it home for Christmas because of a work schedule. Just hearing the word “Covid” can trigger pain and regret for families who never got another “normal” Christmas with elderly loved ones who

United Methodist Church on Tuesday, November 28, from 12 noon to 3 p.m.

Please take advantage of this opportunity to get the practical advice and encouragement you need to move through this season.

This event is open to the community, and a light lunch will be provided.

Branson United Method-

County would like to thank everyone who purchased tickets to support us, Harter House Hollister for allowing us this opportunity, and Doug Baker State Farm for sponsoring this event. Bobbie Wydeen, Finance Chair for JATC, said “We do these fun fundraisers so we can raise money for projects that enhance the lives of children in Taney County.”

Watch for our next big project on Saturday, De-

cember 9, 2023, from 9 a.m. to noon. We’ll be holding Santa’s Gift House at the Tri-Lakes News Community Room, a new location for this year, but it will still have lots of gifts for kids in Pre-K through fourth grade to purchase at 50 cents each, up to four gifts per child.

The kids will do their shopping with the help of JATC Elves. No parents are allowed in the shopping area, but parents are invited to

enjoy snacks while you’re waiting for your child to finish shopping. Santa will be there and a couple special guests, as well.

If your business is all about home, When holidays bring painful memories, help is available sweet home, struggles through a year of passed after 2020 gather- ist Church is located at is appreciated for planSubmitted to Branson Globe 1208 W. 76 Country Blvd. ning purposes but is not For people grieving the “firsts”—the first Thanks- ings didn’t happen.

If you can relate to these For any questions, call the required.) Please join us; you need loss of a loved one, the hol- giving and Christmas, the iday season can be a sad or person’s birthday, or the situations, please know church office at 417-334- you’ll be glad you did, as to be lonely time. Even for those first anniversary of their that help is available. 3423 or Peggy at 641- you find you are not alone who are still surrounded passing—there is no ex- “Surviving the Holidays” 919-1533. (Your RSVP in this journey. here! by family and friends, the act timeline for grief, and will be offered by Branson

Thank you for reading the

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VETERANS, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE

Years of experience has taught me that I never have to apologize for quality products and quality service, and that you don’t find quality products and quality service at discount stores.

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OPINION/LIFESTYLES/YOUR MONEY • NOV. 17, 2023 • SECTION B

IN MY FATHER’S HOUSE

are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. John 14:2 – 6

Heaven, our forever home – Can you imagine it?

BY LAURI LEMKE THOMPSON, Columnist [This is part one of a twopart series on anticipating heaven.] s I learned more about a Christian’s forever home (heaven) and allowed it to fill my

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thoughts a bit more, here’s what happened: First, I started doing better at putting my problems into perspective. You’ve heard it said when you’re going through a problem, ask yourself what will it matter in five or ten years?

Well, how about this: What will it matter when you’re in heaven, i.e. in light of eternity?

The Bible talks about “light momentary afflictions,” saying they prepare us for an “eternal weight of glory” beyond all comparison. Granted,

they don’t always feel so light and momentary, but God will help us through.

Second, like many people, I experience chronic pain, so the promise of “no more pain” in heaven is very meaningful to me. I don’t apologize for wishing for heaven. An old song says, “What a day that will be when my Jesus I will see!”

Third, I grew up on a farm, where I learned as a child to appreciate nature – the beauty, the patterns, the intricacy, how God created each plant and an-

imal to function a certain way. But I was also aware of the sad side of nature: animals suffer and die – and I hated the “tooth and claw” reality of predators and prey.

“Something is not right.” I felt it in my soul. Now I understand it. Scripture tells us that all creation is “groaning” for a better life—just as we are!

Once I learned that God will be “fixing” this earth and restoring it to be like the Garden of Eden, I could begin to picture it.

I could see a garden, a mountain, a rock formation, a towering tree— things familiar to us, but the perfected, glorified version of it all.

A crystal river, fruit, flowers, horses and other animals will be there.

The animals will not be dangerous; maybe we can pet a lion! The beauty will be unsurpassed and jaw-dropping.

As far as activity, I am sure that we will want to worship and sing praises to this God who saved us from sin so that we could

live forever with Him in this more-than-amazing place.

But there is also Scripture that indicates that God will assign us work to do—meaningful work with no hassles and no drudgery. Our tasks may make use of the talents and gifts He gave us when He created each of us.

Further, some Scriptures imply endless exploration and adventure. For more on that, I highly recommend reading Alcorn’s Heaven book. He makes it clear what is clearly stated SEE HEAVEN, PAGE 2B

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pinion

2B • NOV. 17, 2023

First Amendment to the United States Constitution

C

ongress 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

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer s Branson’s Veterans Homecoming Week comes to a close, I have thought a lot about the activities I attended and what I learned from them. As a civilian with close family ties to veterans from World War II to the present, I enjoy attending the events and expressing whatever support I can. And one

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of those spaces, even as I pass Sunfest Market.

Roman histories some two millennia old tell of druids divining the future by reading flights of birds and patterns of clouds in the sky. Some two millennia later, the sky and forBY JOSHUA HESTON, Stateoft- est are still telling stories, heOzarks.net Online Magazine even here, far across the Atlantic wilds, far across he golf course grass to the North American is white like hoar- highlands. The turn of the frost, casualty of freezing year has arrived.

Indian summers and Halloween temperatures. blackberry winters feel Ridges beyond T Highway different every time but are all rough billows of forever just as ancient. auburns and rusts nestled Blackberry winters are in dark purple shadow. a time to shiver against The air feels all summer although the western sky the damp, reveling in the has gone winter, great ball overwhelming green. Inof white sun disappearing dian summers? The world into a cauldron of gray has gone rust but the air cirrus. The ancients told is balmy, billowing, one of threshold spaces. My last dry breath of a dying truck windows are rolled season. The oak leaves are down. This moment is one crispy as they blow across

T

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.

learn from watching that fellowship; and the concept is a biblical one. The early apostles had seen Jesus suffer and be crucified, but they had also seen the risen Christ and experienced the empowering of the Holy Spirit, so that when they were rebuked and beaten, they “were rejoicing that they had been counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.” The Apostle Paul wrote to the Philippian church, “I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death. . .”

(3:10 NIV).

In other words, by suffering for our faith, we can

learn and better imitate the character of Jesus, just as a soldier committed to his fellow soldiers will put his life on the line for those fighting alongside him.

Those veterans at the reunions knew every other veteran in the room had also made sacrifices to protect our nation’s freedom and to help free innocent people in other nations from evil leaders.

That concept is lived out

by Christians in restricted areas around the world, where bold believers daily risk suffering or death, but consider it an honor to do so for Jesus and for the sake of leading others to Him. They are encouraged by knowing other believers

are also persevering, and by knowing that still other believers are praying for them. This is expressed in the key verse of The Voice of the Martyrs, Galatians 6:2, which says, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”

Presently in our nation, physical persecution is rare, but as we see our freedoms under attack, we need to be inspired by the fellowship and dedication of our military and our veterans. Not only should we work to educate future generations so our veterans’ sacrifices and hard work are not in vain, but we can allow them to inspire us in how we daily live the Christian faith that undergirds why it all matters.

the gravel road.

Halloween. Indian summer. Seven years old.

Happiness was wearing my homemade costume, decked out in faux-fringe and real moccasins and a painted face. I even had a Lakota war shield with real beadwork. At seven years old, the reality that my war shield was fabric framed on a wooden embroidery hoop was inconsequential. Also my dangerous war spear was rubbery, a cheap made-in-Japan acquisition from a curio shop somewhere in the western Wyoming mountains. My tall, beautiful sister wore a long dress made from the same brown material as my pretend-leather and she even tied her hair into long braids for the occasion. She was my hero, my inspiration, a warrior princess in my mind if not hers.

After school, we played our favorite game: running through the yard, collecting “healing” berries and seedpods and acorns, preparing for the coming winter. This time we dodged behind the elephant-like trunks of the silver maple and the slowly browning rose bushes, imagining other tribes’ warriors in hot pursuit. I held my spear and shield at the ready.

The weather changed shortly thereafter as seasons do. My sister left home and married and started a family of her own four hours away. That Indian summer was lost in time, except in memory, my memory at least. But when the air is like summer and the grass is like hoarfrost, I stop and remember. It was an earlier time with a better future.

There was a brief mo-

ment back then, it seems, when we could see a future of appreciation, of shared respect, a time when we could continue to learn from our messy and tragic pasts and build meaningful dialogue. Some would look back at my memories with dismay, calling my Indian costume “cultural appropriation.” I don’t see my past that way. Human beings may be sectarian by nature but when challenged we can rise, transcending old hates and violence, celebrating a shared humanity. Too often in the recent past, the opposite has been the case but I hold out hope. I still see a future not of planned resistance and forced shame and forbidden words and broken dialogue but of real hope and relationship and community. Such is the memory I hope doesn’t stay lost in the past.

Breakfast at Tiffany’s: Going home

T

TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer tiffanykgravett@gmail.com

LINDA PAGE Entertainment Writer lpage65@centurytel.net

thing I noticed, over and over, is the camaraderie.

At the World War II/ Korea mini-reunion, veterans ranging in age from late 80s to 102 were able to speak matter-of-factly about some terrible experiences as others nodded in understanding—and then, in the next sentence, engage in good-natured joking about the comparative skills of the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Navy. Having experienced shared suffering for the same cause leads to mutual respect and enjoying camaraderie, even if the same two people wouldn’t think of cheering for the same football team.

As a Christian, I can

Been Thinkin’ About...Indian summer

JOHN FULLERTON Area Historian

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

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OPINION

BY TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer This week’s column is written by Aaron Gravett.

• HEAVEN

Continued from page 1B

in the Bible, and when he is speculating, which I really appreciate.

There are now shorter versions of his book available, along with a devotional based on the original, which you might consider as a gift for a

he passing of a loved one is always hard.

There’s a hole in your heart that misses them so much. It hurts. As believers in Christ though, we have hope. A hope that goes beyond the pain. It’s not a “maybe” hope, but a “sure” hope that we know where they are.

The moment that makes Christ so excited—to bring a child home to

Himself in heaven—is also the moment that is so very hard for us. For to bring them home takes them away from us. Just remember, it’s only for a time.

Think about yourself: What’s your ultimate goal and gift from believing in Jesus Christ? The answer is to be with Him, home in heaven for all eternity.

That’s the believer’s ul-

timate hope. Therefore, when He takes one home, you will mourn. But just remember, that is your gift one day as well.

I love the lyrics from the old African American spiritual, “Give Me Jesus” (with modern adaptations performed by artists like Fernando Ortega and Jeremy Camp): And when I come to die Oh, and when I come to

die And when I come to die Give me Jesus Give me Jesus Give me Jesus You can have all this world But give me Jesus Truly, Christ taking us home is a precious thing!

“Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.” Psalm 116:15 It’s simply…going home.

grieving friend. There’s even a children’s version.

I want to goad you into reading it, so get this: he offers a question and answer chapter that is fascinating.

I now think it’s okay to daydream about things I’d like to do in heaven when I get the new body prom-

ised to me. For instance, I’d love to be able to sing in tune (I never could).

Ice skating like I did in my 20s would be wonderful: gliding across the ice, then a jump, a twirl and a graceful landing. What if I can do a Triple Lutz in Heaven, just like a successful Olympian?

Now, if these don’t happen, will I be disappointed? Of course not— disappointment will be impossible in the perfection that is heaven.

Am I saying I understand it all? Far from it.

Much of it has not been shown to us yet.

But, Christian, next

time you experience a bad day—when life gets so hard and this world seems so broken, remember that you are one day closer to heaven than you were yesterday.

And it will be far from boring.

Coming Home BY HAVLIN Our souls sing a song of sorrow, coming deep from within our hearts Knowing that for all the tomorrows, we will be so far apart; It’s not just your leaving us, but the way you had to go All by yourself in a land far away, with no way for us to know.

Until the strangers came to the door, to tell us of your death The words so stunning it took away the breath; Never for a moment did we believe, you would not come home again Stunned by the dreadful news we stood, and then the tears began.

How to cope with the awful sadness that those who love you feel How to make one understand, that this is not a dream but real; They finally brought you home again that part is true It is not the way we had planned, although we are so proud of you.

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You died a soldier’s death, they said it happened fast You did your duty and led your men, you gave to the very last; They gave you many medals, that you will never wear Beautiful words were said for you, so very hard to bear.

We could not look upon your face, the casket was closed tight We knew you were not really there, but walking in God’s Light; Until we meet again, we will live with our grief Our circle has been broken, and our hearts beyond belief.

For my Grandson SFC Cristopher R. Brevard Born October 17, 1975 – Died March 16, 2007 WILL NEVER FORGET YOU. YOU ARE FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS.

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LIFESTYLES

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Train Up a Child: Fostering an attitude of gratitude

BY PAT LAMB Columnist

I

t is not easy to get children to experience a genuine attitude of gratitude.

Many children do not know what it means to do without things they need or want.

Even though some children in poverty do not have as

much as others, they often pick up an attitude of entitlement from parents or others. Unfortunately, that attitude of entitlement seems to permeate our current society. Rather than be thankful for what they have, people often become angry that someone else doesn’t see to it that they have more.

We need to start with children to help them be truly thankful for what they have. Will telling them to be thankful cause them to be thankful? No. As with most of the things we teach children, experience is the

best teacher. I can still hear my mom saying, “We never miss the water ‘til the well runs dry.” How true! Considering this truth, we may need to institute what may seem to be some drastic measures to help children appreciate what they have.

However, these activities can be games that the family plays and be fun experiences that will be remembered for years. Here are some suggestions for one or more activities as needed: 1. Choose a day when there are no important trips that need to be made.

Pretend that the family vehicles will not start, so that there is no way to travel by car. Everyone must either stay home or walk. No one is allowed to carpool.

2. It will not hurt the family to go a day without food unless there are medical situations requiring someone not to do so. Some families have been known to schedule a day of fasting each week and give the money that would have been spent on food to charity.

3. Take away all means of communication with the outside world. No cell phones may be used, and other phones can be hidden.

4. Turn off the electricity for a day or so. (Some have already experienced this during ice storms.)

5. If you have a fireplace, on a cold day turn off the furnace. Use only the fireplace for heat.

6. Make arrangements for teens to go on mission trips to a foreign country with a church group.

Teens who do this are never the same again.

None of these activities will really hurt the children and will help them to truly appreciate the things they had to do without. Of course, health situations may prevent the use of some of the ideas, but perhaps others can be substituted. It may be that none of them, or just one of them, is needed to help children learn to appreciate what they have.

Parents can be very creative in getting the point across that we need to be thankful for what we have.

The merits of apple cider vinegar (ACV) [Part 2]

BY JODY JOHNSON GODFREY Wellness Design Specialist

A

CV is produced during the apple cider fermentation process by fermenting the sugar (naturally occurring in apples) by adding in yeast and/or bacteria to the cider.

Given time, the cider turns into alcohol and then into vinegar. We can drink the ACV as it is or we can

take it in the form of capsules or gummies to get the same effect as from drinking it. If you don’t dilute it, damage to teeth enamel can occur, plus...it is very “tangy” on the taste buds and can make you pucker! The best method, in my book, is the gummies!

There are two types of the ACV, but the better, by far, is the one with “the mother.”

This would be the “cloudy” version.

To make ACV would entail a two-step process.

The first step is to add some yeast which, in turn, serves to break down the sugars and turn them into alcohol.

After this step, bacteria would be added and this

converts the alcohol to “acetic acid.” This bacterium is what is known as “the mother.” As well, it is the part of the ACV that holds the majority of the nutrients.

In regular ACV, the mother is taken out—the vinegar filtered which gives it a clear consistency. “The mother” is comprised of strains of “friendly” bacteria which help your digestion and immune system to function as it should. And then this further enables our bodies to utilize, to the max, the food we consume and to balance out any bad bacteria and keep us healthy.

In order to get the full benefits from your ACV, insist only on using the ver-

sion containing the mother!

Ways in which we can use ACV are thus: 1. As a daily drink 2. As an alternative to salt (mix as a 1 to 1 ratio and put in a spray bottle and spritz on your food!)

3. Use as a salad dressing and know it can be added into your favorite dressings, too.

4. Use ACV as a steam facial treatment (self-explanatory).

5. Use as a skin cleanser and toner. (Make a tonic of equal parts ACV and water and use a cotton ball to apply.)

6. Use as a cleansing hair rinse (equal parts of ACV and water, then

spray onto hair after washing and let remain for five minutes, then rinse off.) This makes hair shinier and more maneuverable.

7. Use as a foot soak (mix one part ACV to two parts water and soak feet for 10-15 minutes in hot water).

8. Take ACV as gummies or other types of supplements (this solves the problem if you don’t care to drink it or add it to your salads).

Potential side effects from ACV if not used correctly: 1. Could cause chemical burns on skin when used for wart removal 2. Can erode tooth enamel

if you don’t rinse with water afterwards 3. If you consume this undiluted, it can make you feel sick or cause acid reflux in the form of nausea and indigestion.

4. When taken for a prolonged duration and/ or in large doses, it can lower potassium levels.

5. If consumed undiluted and in large quantities, it can harm your throat, esophagus and stomach.

6. If you are diabetic, check with your GP before taking it.

7. May be unsuitable for persons with chronic kidney disease as the excess acid can be hard for the kidneys to process

We are here not there.

Your life will never be the same as it is right now.

Pause to appreciate the sensations. Is it a painful time?

Then what lesson can you be learning right now? If you are present in this moment, what will you carry into the future so that this opportunity is not wasted?

Will the future you look back in ten years and regret that you were not more mindful of this moment? Are there children in your life who need your attention?

Are there business investments that need your focus now to be meaningful later?

If the ten-year-older version of yourself you could advise today you, what would you need to hear?

What have you found to be appreciative of right now? What wasteful uses of time and money can you

remove now to let this moment have its full meaning without detracting from the past or future? This moment has meaning.

Look around you. Soak in the setting. Determine you will never forget this place, this setting, this emotion you are sitting in.

Choose to remember what got you here. Who should you thank? Perhaps you have setbacks you want to blame others for. How will you manage your mindset to set those people free so you can stop being a passenger in your own life?

Life will never be the same as it is now. That’s exciting. It’s also sad.

My four-year-old will not always be as huggable and cute as he is now. That’s good and bad. I will enjoy him for what he is right now.

MindFlow: Make the moment

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

T

he scene burned into my mind. There were books all over the room. My mom was working on the

bibliography for a book she was writing and had piled her resources in groups all over the upstairs at Grandma’s house where we were saying.

I was so bored.

Ten-year-old me decided to try an experiment. I had noticed that I only remembered really momentous things from my past. I wondered if I could etch my memory with this very boring, non-eventful moment of my life. I lay back on a bed,

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looked at the ceiling, looked at all the volumes around the room, and soaked it all in. Apparently, it worked because over three decades later I still remember that time, place and setting.

Where you are right now, what you are doing right now, has meaning. There are two things that will try to blind you from today: living in the past and living in the future.

I tend to live in the future.

I will be happy once the new flooring is installed or once we get the driveway paved. I will be happy when the kids all have good jobs.

I will be happy when I can travel more.

Mortgaging my happiness to some future date is not the way to enjoy life.

I tend to live in the past.

I have happy memories of vacations with my mom and dad. I remember great times playing in the pond behind grandma and grandpa’s house. I miss the days of swimming and snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea, every day, for three months. I miss when all my kids were living at home, all going to Silver Dollar City together, and all gathered around the same table.

However, we cannot live in the future. We cannot live in the past. We live right now. This moment matters.

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Thanksgiving: Make every day a day of thanksgiving

BY EVANGELIST TIM KIDWELL, Branson Church of Christ

I

appreciate this time of the year in which our country stops to express thanksgiving for the many blessings we have received.

My family also pauses and

gives thanks to God on Thanksgiving Day. But to the Christian, every day should be celebrated as a day of thanksgiving. Why? Because every day is a day that the Lord has given us, and we should rejoice and be glad in it (Psalm 118:24).

The apostle Paul wrote that it is God’s will that we always give him thanks (1 Thess. 5:18).

But so many today are ungrateful. The majority of people live self-centered lives. They act as though they deserve everything that

they receive and they have an insatiable appetite for more. Those people are like the child on Christmas morning who asks, “Is that all?”

Some may be thinking, “There is too much pain in my life to be thankful for anything.” To these people I ask: Have you lost a loved one? Be thankful for the amount of time you shared, even if it was short. Do you have physical ailments? Be thankful for whatever degree of health you have. Do you live in a house, apartment, or tent? Be thankful

for your shelter! Do you own a car, truck, or jalopy?

Do you have money to ride the bus? Do you have two healthy legs upon which to travel? Do you have friends who drive? Be thankful!

In Luke Chapter 17 we read of ten men who had leprosy. There was no known cure for this disease and those who were infected were most often doomed to die a slow, painful death. These ten lepers approached Jesus with the desire to be healed. The Lord instructed them to go and show themselves to the high

priest. As they were traveling, it was suddenly realized that all ten were healed of their illness. Imagine the joy they must have felt to know that their “death sentence” had been pardoned.

However, only one man out of the ten felt the need to return to Jesus and thank him for saving his life.

Upon seeing the return of only the one Jesus asked, “Were there not ten that were healed? Where are the others?” Jesus had not commanded that the lepers return and express grati-

tude to him, yet, he makes it clear by this question that had their heart been right, they would have wanted to thank him.

Ingratitude. This word has broken more hearts, destroyed more homes, caused more tears to be shed, and created more hatred than any other.

When is the last time you expressed your gratitude to God? Let us remember to make every day a day of thanksgiving to our creator since he is the provider of every good gift (James 1:17).

The science of gratitude

BY HEATHER HAYGOOD Columnist

A

s we enter the Thanksgiving season, I have been contemplating gratitude. I do this every year and I make sure that my family and I take time to slow down and count our blessings. I didn’t need science to tell me this, but I recently read an article titled,

• MINDFLOW

Continued from page 4B

I will not guilt him for not being a rocket scientist yet or for forgetting to brush his teeth. I won’t pine away the days wishing he was sucking on a pacifier still. Like-

“Complaining is bad for your health.” I know why this is, but do you?

Besides the obvious fact that no one wants to be around someone who complains all the time, complaining rewires the brain to make future complaining more likely. That is how the brain works. Your neurons grow closer together and the connections between them become more permanent.

“Neurons that fire together wire together.” I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to train my brain to work against me. Isn’t that what complaining does to you?

Constant complaining pits

you against the world. You actually train your brain and your eyes to look for all the ways you were wronged or that something didn’t work out for you.

Complaining is also quite literally bad for your health.

Research from Stanford University has shown that complaining shrinks the hippocampus…. shrinks it.

What is the hippocampus?

It’s not that big of a deal, it is just the part of your brain that is critical for problem solving and intelligent thought. When you complain, your body also releases cortisol, which shifts you into fight or flight

mode. Cortisol is known as the stress hormone. When your body consistently has elevated cortisol, your immune system is weakened, you begin to store belly fat, your body becomes chronically stressed, and you can experience other systems like fatigue, headaches, intestinal problems and high blood pressure.

Proverbs 23:7 says, “As a man thinketh, so is he.”

If I can train my brain to do anything, I want to train it to do things that are beneficial to me.

“The mind is a powerful force. It can enslave us or empower us. It can plunge us

into the depths of misery or take us to the heights of ecstasy. Learn to use the power wisely.” David Cuschieri When my sons start to complain too much, I tell them they are building a complaining bridge in their brain. I then ask them to tell me two things that they are thankful for. I am teaching them to look for the good in their life. Seem simple?

That’s because it is. When you are tempted to complain, you must stop yourself and say out loud what you are thankful for. Personally, I try to say five things that I am blessed by. If I am in a particularly bad mood,

I might list as many things as I can in a 20-minute car ride. Life isn’t perfect and it never will be. There will be hardship, but hardship doesn’t have to break us.

Some of the happiest and most peaceful people I have ever met have been through some of the most heartbreaking, life altering situations. It’s possible.

I would love to hear your feedback. If you have been enjoying my articles, please visit hshaygood.com and click The Love Journey tab to order your copy of my new book and sign up for weekly emails. “Love is a journey not a destination.”

wise, I will not hold myself to things that I cannot get back or a future I cannot access yet.

I have struggled to enjoy the “now” many times because I hadn’t let myself go from the past. I had to go

back to my seven-year-old self and forgive someone so I could move on from the trauma. I had to go back to my twenty-five-year-old self and forgive myself so I could let go of shame and guilt.

Be attentive in the little

things. Are you brushing your hair? Be present. Stuck in traffic? Be mindful. Compiling a bibliography? Be observant.

Don’t push pause on your soul during your workweek and only push play for the

weekend. Don’t miss the forest by not looking at each tree. Don’t miss what “is” by fixating on what “could have been.”

Savor this sip. Inhale this fragrance. Feel this texture.

Look at that sky. Listen to that

sound (even if it is silence).

By creating a habit of finding meaningful moments in the mundane, you will have a vibrant life and feeling of joy and satisfaction many people only dream of.

succeeded!

-Chloe, age 10 *** I told Briggs I was making turkey slider sandwiches for dinner and he said “I don’t

want those crusty, dusty sandwiches. They’re disgusting!” -Briggs, age 4 *** Jeremiah gets all his questions in about heaven at

bedtime. Tonight he asked, “Is there a kitchen in heaven? Do we eat there? Because I want to eat healthy food at that heaven.” -Jeremiah, age 4

Out of the mouths of babes...

Collected by Tiffany Gravett Harper, fake gagging, coughing and spitting into the trash can* Me: “Uh, what’s going on there?”

Harper: “Ughhhhhh, I think I have stress throat!”

-Harper, age 7 *** Chloe, coming to the car after swimming lessons*

Me: Hey, girlfriend, how was the water?

Chloe: Good!

Me: What did you concentrate on?

Chloe: Not drowning, and I

6B • NOV. 17, 2023

YOUR MONEY

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Dave Says: Go into debt for a wedding? Nope! arships, and my wife and I make good money. We just started your plan, so when we get to Baby Step 5, saving for college, can we substitute that with saving for a wedding?

Benton Dear Benton,

BY DAVE RAMSEY, CEO, Ramsey I’m glad you’re thinking Solutions, and an eight-time No. ahead, buddy. And I don’t 1 national best-selling author, have a problem with your and host of The Ramsey Show idea. It’s always a good plan to save for a wedding, ear Dave, Our daughter’s if you have the financial college education is pret- resources to do so.

Did you know the avty much paid for already erage wedding in Amerthrough grants and schol-

D

ica this year, according to Zola.com, ran around $29,000? Of course, you don’t have to pay anything close to that amount to make a wedding a beautiful and memorable occasion. Your household income, debt, savings and other factors will all play a part in how much you can legitimately afford.

Sit down with your wife, crunch some numbers, and see what makes sense in your situation. Just remember to pay cash for the wedding. If you have to go

into debt to make it happen, you’re spending way too much!

—Dave *** Dear Dave, My husband and I have just $12,000 to pay off before we’re debt-free.

We’ve paid off almost $70,000 in debt in the last two years, and we both just turned 50. We would like to buy a house soon, but we know we need an emergency fund. It would take us over a year to build up an emergency fund, so

since we’re getting older, should we make adjustments to the Baby Steps?

Debbie Dear Debbie, You’ve been making great progress, and you obviously have a good income to be able to pay off debt that quickly. But it shouldn’t take you two a year to build up an emergency fund, considering the rate at which you’ve been paying off debt.

Yes, you need a fully funded emergency fund of three to six months of ex-

Stock Market Insights: Stocks on the streak!

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

T

hey call him the streak!” My wife and I saw Ray Stevens sing “The Streak” in concert years ago in Branson, MO. The premise of the hilarious song is

that a man keeps streaking the town, and everyone is in an uproar. Right now, the markets are doing some fun streaks, too, but we aren’t in an uproar; we are egging them on.

Stocks continue to inch higher this week on the news that the Federal Reserve has finished raising interest rates.

Lower Treasury yields have also helped stocks bounce back strongly as it tries to recover losses from its threemonth correction.

Stocks in the S&P 500 have risen eight consecutive days and nearly 7% since the October lows as of November 8. According

to Dow Jones Market Data, if it ends November 9 positive, it would be the first nine-day winning streak in nineteen years.

The Nasdaq stock index (technology stocks), not to be outdone, was up for a ninth straight day as of November 8. The technology index closed above its October high on November 7, the first time a major stock index has reached a higher high (double peak) since July, showing positive momentum, according to Dow Jones Market Data.

The negative news is that the Russell 2000 index (small-caps stocks) is still

near its low for the year, showing that the market run isn’t extending beyond the largest companies and the big tech companies. This weakness suggests that cautious investors currently prefer high-quality, profitable stocks over small companies with more potential to grow.

Even though small caps continue to struggle, it looks like the rest of the stock market is gearing up for a fresh run at reaching new all-time highs. Here is what we need to see for it to be a possibility.

• The S&P 500 needs to move above its October high (around 4420).

• The Russell 2000 needs to return to the 1800-point level to show broader market strength.

• The U.S. Dollar also needs to weaken so U.S. companies can be competitive in selling overseas. The U.S. Dollar Index needs to stay below 106; it hovered at 105.5 on November 9.

The markets seem confident that the Fed has finished its rate-hiking cycle.

If rates continue to pause and the dollar continues to soften along with the normal end-of-the-year seasonal market strength, it may provide a more enjoyable

penses set aside before you start saving a down payment for a home. Maybe in your case, you could lean a little more toward the three-month side with your emergency fund. Then, after you’re all moved in, you could revisit the emergency fund and beef it up to six months.

Fifty isn’t old, Debbie.

Just stay on course and stick with the plan. You two have plenty of time to get your finances in order and find a great home!

—Dave

market experience closing out the year.

“The Streak” was released in February 1974 during the then-popular craze of streaking. It was such a craze that nearly 40 other songs about streaking came out during that period.

In Stevens’ song, a reporter is interviewing a man who tried to warn his wife with “Don’t look, Ethel,” but is always too late. In the end, Ethel gets in on the fun and streaks, too. I hope, like Ethel, the rest of the stock market gets in on the streaking fun.

Have a blessed week! www.FerventWM.com

Volunteers needed for Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program in Taney County Submitted to Branson Globe University of Missouri Extension is looking for volunteers to provide free tax help for the 2024 tax season (2023 tax year) in Taney County. Become a tax volunteer and make a difference in your community.

Jody LeMaster, Taney County VITA site coordinator, says, “Last year we helped over 1,000 folks in

our area with their federal and state taxes. The more volunteers we have, the more people we can serve; the more we can serve, the more likely we will be able to receive grant funds to keep the program going” The IRS sponsors the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program.

This program offers free tax help across the country for

people with low-to-moderate incomes.

Here are six good reasons why you should consider becoming a VITA volunteer: • Flexible hours. We ask volunteers to serve an average of four to six hours per week. Our program is usually open from the end of January through the tax filing deadline in April.

• VITA sites are in Branson and Forsyth and need your help.

• No prior experience needed. You will receive specialized training and can serve in a variety of roles.

• Free tax law training and materials. Learn how to prepare basic tax returns and learn about all the tax deductions and credits that benefit eligible taxpayers.

User friendly program provided by the IRS. • Continuing education credits for tax pros. Enrolled agents and non-credentialed tax return preparers can earn credits when volunteering as a VITA quality reviewer or tax return preparer.

• There is always a site coordinator on hand to answer questions.

As a volunteer, you will join a program that helps millions of people nationwide file tax returns at no charge for more than 40 years. Your help will make a difference. It is people helping people. It is that simple.

To find out more, call the University of Missouri Taney County Extension office at 417-546-4431 or email taneyco@missouri.edu.

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YOUR MONEY

Make the Ozarks home

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

A

t some point, while on vacation, every one of us has thought about how great it would be to just move to a great vacation spot and enjoy life working, retiring, starting over, and just living in an awesome

resort town. Well, speaking from experience, I can tell you that doing just that can be a truly rewarding and life changing experience.

A little over ten years ago my family took the plunge and headed across the country to put down new roots in Branson, Missouri, the star of the Ozark Mountains.

Now, a decade later, we are still enjoying everything the area has to offer and we have realized the dream of living in a small-town community with big time benefits.

This is truly a great place to live. The economy is strong and the job market is always growing. The health care, schools, entertainment and shopping are world

class but without the hassle and stress of big-city living.

Then, there is the wonderful atmosphere of warmth and friendliness you experience as you stroll the streets, walk the trails, or visit with people visiting from all over.

Of course, you can’t leave out the natural beauty of this amazing landscape. From the abundance of lakes, to the spectacular Ozark Mountain range, there are always options for exploring the great outdoors right in your own back yard.

Now you might be thinking that relocating to the Branson Tri-Lakes area is too difficult, or expensive; but I can assure you that

NOV. 17, 2023 • 7B

there is a wide range of real estate opportunities to make your dream a reality.

The first step is giving me a call. After that, we can work together to explore your options, create your plan, and get you moving on your

way to your new dream home.

Bottom Line: So what are you waiting for? While you are here enjoying the vacation life, take a minute and reach out. I can’t wait to work with you and welcome

you to the best and biggest, little community you will ever see.

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

Heather Tankersley REALTOR® Keller Williams Tri-Lakes D: 417.332.5130 O:417.336.4999

BUILD IN BRANSON - ENJOY CITY ACCESS WHILE ENJOYING COUNTY TAXES: Lot 3, Carmen Lane, Branson. 1.03 acres, established neighborhood, private lake, all utility access.

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ATTENTION ALL BUILDERS: Lot 348 Lake Cove Circle, Hollister. 0.245 acres, all utilities in place. Many community amenities. End of cul-de-sac. Emerald Pointe.

Practicing contentment this holiday season

BY RACHEL CRUZE, Ramsey Solutions, is a national best-selling author, financial expert and host of The Rachel Cruze Show

I

love Thanksgiving almost as much as I love Christmas. There’s just something about the family time, and the official kickoff to the whole holiday season that feels extra cozy and magical. But with the start of the season also comes more pressure, higher expectations, and countless opportunities to spend crazy amounts of money on everything from plane tickets to monogrammed organic cotton napkins. So here are five tips for keeping your expectations realistic and your spending in check throughout the holidays this year.

Set healthy boundaries My good friend Dr. John Delony always encourages people to decide in advance what their holiday boundaries are going to be, and then be firm about them. This will help you not cave to the unnecessary expectations

we can often place on ourselves (or others can place on us) during the holidays.

And you can set boundaries around all kinds of things— like time, technology and money—that will then inform the choices you make throughout the season.

For example, visiting family is important, but if you’re trying to get out of debt and already planning to travel to see your family for Christmas, maybe you choose to stay home for Thanksgiving. Or maybe your idea of the perfect holiday is one where everyone is talking and genuinely connecting, so you set a “no phones allowed” rule for the day.

Stick to your budget Speaking of money boundaries, don’t let yourself head into the holiday season without having a monthly budget in place.

Now, all you Black Friday shoppers, hear me out.

Being on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t spend money—it just means you tell your money where to go by

deciding in advance how much you’re going to spend and what you’re going to spend it on. Then you actually have the freedom to spend that money without the headaches and stress that come with accidentally overspending!

Prioritize generosity My dad always says generosity is the most fun you can have with money, and I agree. And while we should make giving part of our budget year round, this is such a special time to be intentional about blessing others. So, brainstorm some creative ways you can give your money, time and talents. If you have a spouse and kids, involve them in this process too, and enjoy all the fun that comes with an others-focused perspective.

Keep a gratitude journal Not to get super cheesy, but in the whirlwind of holiday activities, it’s easy to lose sight of the meaning behind all of it. So if you’re a journaler like I am—and even if you’re usually not—

set aside some time to get quiet and jot down what you’re truly grateful for this year. I have a Contentment Journal with guided prompts you can use for this, or you can just write down some reflections on your own. This really sets the tone and gets you in the right mindset for the rest of the season.

Talk about contentment with your family This time of year can come with so much focus on all the “stuff” we want or don’t have yet. Let this season naturally spark conversations about contentment and appreciating everything your family already has.

This is a great principle to keep in mind year-round,

since comparison and wanting to keep up with the Joneses can lead us down a slippery slope financially and emotionally—and contentment protects us from all of that. If you have kids, talk to them about the fact that it’s okay to want and have nice things, but there are other things in life that matter much, much more.

HEATHER TANKERSLEY REALTOR

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PHOTO GALLERY

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Veterans Day Parade 2023: Honoring all those Photos this page by K.D. Michaels

417-251-1942

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PHOTO GALLERY

NOV. 17, 2023 • 9B

who served, and who are serving our country Photos this page by George Kurland

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

• Through Jan. 1, 2024 Come celebrate A Merry Country Christmas at Legends in Concert.

Then, from December 27 through the rest of the year we will perform our regular Legends in Concert show. Make plans now to join us at the iconic Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater for a rockin’ New Year’s Eve! The show starts at 9:30 p.m. and ends with a countdown at midnight.

Performances at 3 or 8 p.m. at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater, located at 1600 W. 76 Country Blvd. Call 417-339-3003 for tickets and information or visit www.legendsinconcert. com/branson.

NOVEMBER

• 17 Grand reopening and ribbon cutting at

Country Mart, Forsyth (15720 U.S.-160), at 10 a.m..

• 17 Red Cross Blood Drive, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Lake Taneycomo Elks Lodge, 12951 U.S. Hwy. 160, Forsyth. https://RedCrossBlood. org/Forsyth • 18 Live music at award-winning Turkey Creek Brewery in historic downtown Hollister, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. https://www.jukeboxwinos.com • 21 Free Tuesday Talk at Branson Centennial Museum, 120 S. Commercial St., downtown Branson, at 12:30 p.m.

Robert McCormick, a photographer, author, friend of so many in Branson will present; “Abandoned Ozarks.” https://www.facebook. com/bcm1912/ • 21 The Yarn Tanglers Guild, 6 p.m. at the Branson Community

Center, 201 Compton Drive, Branson. We meet to unlock creativity and help our members broaden their knit and crochet skill sets. All fiber artists are welcome. The first visit is free. Programming: Create Christmas I-Cord ornaments. Visit yarntanglersguild.org for more information.

• 22 Wrangler’s Star Studded Honky Tonk, 625 State Highway 165.

Join us Wednesdays for country line and swing dance lessons, 6:30-7:30 p.m. $10. For information, 417-5441405; wranglershonkytonk.com.

• 24 Live music at TAPS On Downing in historic downtown Hollister, 6–8 p.m. https://www. jukeboxwinos.com.

• 25 Live music at award-winning Turkey Creek Brewery in historic downtown Hollister, 6:30–8:30 p.m. https://www.jukeboxwinos.com.

• 29 Raffle for king size quilt; fundraiser for Branson Centennial

Thank you for reading the

MOVIES

Museum, 120 S. Commercial St. downtown Branson. Stop in today to purchase tickets.

Tickets are $1 for 1 ticket; $5 for 6 tickets; $20 for 25 tickets. Drawing on Facebook Live Wed., Nov. 29 at 12 noon. www.facebook.com/ bcm1912 • 29 Wrangler’s Star Studded Honky Tonk, 625 State Highway 165.

Join us Wednesdays for country line and swing dance lessons, 6:30-7:30 p.m. $10. For information, 417-5441405; wranglershonkytonk.com.

DECEMBER

• 1 & 2 22nd Christmas Tour of Homes, presented by Neighbors and Friends of Table Rock Lake; featuring four holiday decorated homes, Marketplace, Boutique, and café: will be held December 1-2, 2023. Event headquarters will be the Kimberling Area Library.

The Library and two local grocery stores will sell advance individual tickets ($20 each) through November 30.

The library and featured homes will sell day-ofevent tickets ($25 each).

All raised monies support charities in Stone and Taney counties.

Information at: www.

NFTRL.org/hometour; NFTRL on Facebook.

• 3 Branson Masonic Lodge 587 monthly spaghetti lunch. Serving

from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Spaghetti, meatballs, garlic bread, salad, dessert and drink. ALL for only $8. Branson Masonic Lodge #587, 100 Chiefs Court.

• 3 Branson Jammin’ for Jesus concert will benefit SUITCASES FOR NEW BEGINNINGS. Free gospel concert, 2 p.m. at the Branson Famous Baldknobber’s Theater, 645 State Hwy 165. Will collect children’s duffle bags and diaper bags for children in foster care. Branson entertainer Randy Plummer, is featured Branson entertainer.

Free admission with suggested donation of diaper bag or duffle bag. https://bransonjamminforjesus.com.

• 6 Wrangler’s Star Studded Honky Tonk, 625 State Highway 165.

Join us Wednesdays for country line and swing dance lessons, 6:30-7:30 p.m. $10. For information, 417-5441405; wranglershonkytonk.com.

• 7 Junior Brown Concert, Wrangler’s Star Studded Honky Tonk, 625 State Highway 165, Branson, 7:30 p.m.

Tickets $30. For tickets/ information: 417-3322121.

• 9 Forsyth Annual Christmas Parade at 2 p.m. https://forsythmissouri.org/ • 11 Neighbors and Friends of Table Rock Lake (www.nftrl.org)

will meet on Monday, December 11, 10 a.m., at Our Lady of the Cove Catholic Church, 20 Kimberling Blvd, Kimberling City. The program is Christmas News from Silver Dollar City!

A meal is available for a fee. Contact reservations@nftrl.org before December 1 to register or with questions.

• 13 Wrangler’s Star Studded Honky Tonk, 625 State Highway 165.

Join us Wednesdays for country line and swing dance lessons, 6:30-7:30 p.m. $10. For information, 417-5441405; wranglershonkytonk.com.

• 19 The Yarn Tanglers Guild, 6 p.m. at the Branson Community Center, 201 Compton Dr., Branson. Visit yarntanglersguild.org for more information.

• 20 Wrangler’s Star Studded Honky Tonk, 625 State Highway 165.

Join us Wednesdays for country line and swing dance lessons, 6:30-7:30 p.m. $10. For information, 417-5441405; wranglershonkytonk.com.

• 27 Wrangler’s Star Studded Honky Tonk, 625 State Highway 165.

Join us Wednesdays for country line and swing dance lessons, 6:30-7:30 p.m. $10. For information, 417-5441405; wranglershonkytonk.com.

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NOV. 17, 2023 • 1C

ENTERTAINMENT/HISTORY/COMMUNITY NOV. 17, 2023 • SECTION C

Lt. David “Mac” McAllister, USN (Ret.) salutes World War II veteran, Corp. Samuel Seizert. (Photo by Philip Thomas)

Military Gala: A fitting tribute to wrap up Veterans Week

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer The Military Gala & Banquet, sponsored by P.O.W. Network and held during Branson’s Veterans Homecoming Week is always a special time of celebration and remembrance, and this year’s 27th Annual Gala, held at the Chateau on the Lake, was no exception.

Master of Ceremonies was Lt. David “Mac” McAllister, USN (Ret.). LCDR Marvin Bucholz, USN, served as

President of the Mess. Branson entertainer Doug Gabriel led the National Anthem; presentation of the colors was by the Veterans of the Ozarks; and Chaplain Caleb Dunnam, MOARNG, gave the invocation.

As a special highlight this year, the Pledge of Allegiance was led by World War II veteran, Corp. Samuel Seizert, who served from 1945-1946 as a tank driver in the Philippines. Upon arriving back in the U.S. in

September, 1946, he was asked, “What are you going to do with the rest of your life?” His answer: “Change the world, one person at a time.” He meant that statement very seriously as he accepted God’s call to fulltime ministry, served many years as a pastor, and is still ready to speak when called on or to share his faith with people he meets.

Other honored guests, not present in person but introduced via the event program

booklet, included Gertrude Vreeland Tompkins, who joined the Woman Airforce Service Pilot (WASP) program in 1943 to serve by ferrying planes; a crash ended her brief career in October 1944, and the questions and circumstances have never been resolved. Unfortunately, she was not officially designated MIA due to being outside a combat zone, but it was a painful loss to her family nonetheless. Also recognized was Cpl. Vernon

Douglas Presswood, lost during the Korean War in December 1950, at the Chosin Reservoir; his family finally received answers more than 66 years later, when he was identified by DNA. The stories of Ms. Tompkins and Cpl. Presswood provided a fitting backdrop for the POW/MIA candlelight service, in which Gala guests speak aloud the name of the missing soldier with whose card they share their seat. They then light a candle

in honor of that soldier. The symbolic white table, along with the white Christmas tree bearing dog tags of Missouri POW/MIA, are an annual reminder, during upcoming holiday celebrations, to keep in our thoughts and prayers these families who still lack answers about the person missing from the table.

The Gala also included the 247th celebration of the November 10 birthdate of the U.S. Marine Corps.

SEE GALA, PAGE 2C

2C • NOV. 17, 2023

ENTERTAINMENT

bransonglobe.com

Area Entertainment: tHAT Mentalist Guy is amazing

BY LINDA PAGE Entertainment Writer

A

couple weeks ago I told you about Steve Sanders, tHAT Mentalist

Guy. His last show for the time being was last Saturday at Hamner’s Variety Theater. This was his 100th show in Branson and he plans to do a lot more.

Steve had been performing at Nashville Roadhouse Live Theater at the Branson Star. While he was on tour the theater was unexpectedly sold and when he returned to Branson, he did not have a theater for his show.

Dave and Denise Hamner graciously offered their theater to him so he could perform his 100th show.

Steve said he will stay in Branson and has a venue lined up which he will announce at a later date.

We will keep you posted.

I attended the show last Saturday morning since I had never seen his act. To say he was amazing is an understatement and left me wondering how he did

that when I can’t remember what I had for breakfast.

Steve interacts with the audience and most of his mental magic includes members of his audience. This is a completely unique experience from anything else in town. He is funny and has a personality that draws people to him. Steve has a variety of wardrobe changes as well as an impressive

collection of hats that he dons for each act. Thus, the name tHAT Mentalist Guy. Steve has had plenty of time and experience to hone his skills. His interest in magic began at age seven and by the time he was nine years old, he was putting on shows for his neighbors from his bedroom window. From his teenage years to the present, he has performed at

churches, fairs, schools, venues in Las Vegas and on cruise ships worldwide.

At one point he worked on visual effects for some of Hollywood’s biggest blockbuster movies.

Steve and wife Debbie and their collection of pets now call Branson their home. When he announces his next venue, be sure to make plans to see his show of mystery and mind reading.

GUMI Camp benefit show in the books, but you can still donate

BY LINDA PAGE, Staff Writer The fundraiser for GUMI (Glad U Made It) Camp USA is “in the books.” On November 10 a benefit show was held at Jerry Presley’s God and Country Theatre for Tim Hadler’s unique camp for returning veterans suffering with PTSD, an inability to adjust to civilian life and depression.

The six-month program includes veteran peer-topeer support, specialized groups, challenging expedi-

tions, experiencing life on a working farm/ranch and animal therapy. There is a daily routine of support groups, activities with animals, woodworking and more.

Help is available 24/7 for the residents until graduation and then the veteran and the case management team decide what happens next. Some decide to stay at the camp to help others in the healing process and others integrate into society and become vital members

of the community.

The mission statement of GUMI Camp is: To equip, strengthen and encourage U. S. veterans with the educational, emotional and spiritual resources to understand and overcome deployment related issues through personal reflective and group activities in a serene working ranch setting.

The 258-acre property provides facilities for veterans to reside there without cost to them. There are indi-

vidual cabins throughout the property and a main center for group activities, dining, visits and more. The residents are involved with all aspects of running a farm as well as helping to build fences and additional cabins as money becomes available.

The event last Friday included a silent auction, entertainment and a love offering. The Fraternal Order of Eagles in Cape Fair, Missouri, sponsored the show and entertainment was provided

• GALA

Each year’s Gala honors a select group, with this year’s recognized group being Rear Echelon Personnel.

McAllister described the duties of those serving in maintenance, food service,

teaching and other often unnoticed duty areas, saying, “You’re warriors, all of you.

Thanks for having our backs while we had yours.”

P.O.W. Network Chairman Mary Schantag thanked the sponsors and volunteers who help make the Gala a success. Among many others, these include A.M. Pyrotechnics, which provides a celebration of American-made fireworks for the intermission; veteran-owned Artistry Entertainment which provides music and DJ services for dancing; and Swift Shots photography.

Schantag then presented the Avis Gutz Memorial Award of Excellence, given each year to a volunteer for extraordinary service assisting with P.O.W. Network services to families, Veterans

Week events, and the Gala, including behind-the-scenes efforts in planning, decorating, loading/unloading, and much more. This year’s award went to Margie Jo Williamson, a 21-year veteran herself as a medic and nurse and a familiar face volunteering at Network events. Williamson was also recognized at the Nurses and Medics reunion earlier in the week with a Quilt of Honor.

(See Dedicated veteran volunteer honored at Medics/ Nurses reunion on page 6C.) Following the presentations and acknowledgements, Doug Gabriel provided a closing musical tribute; Chaplain Dunnam gave the benediction; and the colors were retired by Veterans of the Ozarks. Many guests lingered to wrap up the evening

Continued from page 1C

Veterans and active Marines present gathered around as GySGT Donald Pruitt, USMC (Ret.) did the cake cutting honors.

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by Tim Hadler, Barbara Fairchild and Jerry Presley.

The show opened with the color guard and Pledge of Allegiance. Tim performed a part of his Hank Williams Revisited show with hits like “Honky Tonk Blues” and “Hey, Good Lookin.’” Tim takes on the persona of Hank Sr. and gives some insight into his short life. Barbara Fairchild sang a couple of songs as did Jerry Presley.

Although the benefit show is over, you can still donate to this

worthy cause either through monetary donations or serving as a camp volunteer.

At last count $1,000 was raised and an FOE representative said that number will rise with donations from businesses. The Fraternal Order of Eagles is a great supporter of GUMI Camp and has pledged to match the final amount raised.

You can go to gumicampusa.com for more information on the program and to donate or volunteer.

Mary Schantag and World War II Veteran Samuel Seizert, 97, who led the Pledge of Allegiance at the Gala. (Photo by Philip Thomas) with music and dancing.

The Gala is definitely a special time for anyone who served or is still serving in any branch of the U.S. military, or who wants to attend in thanks and support. One local National Guard member, attending for the first time,

expressed how meaningful it was to feel gratitude from so many community members and spend time in celebration and remembrance with colleagues. Join him in marking your calendars now for next year’s event, Sunday evening, November 10, 2024.

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HISTORY

NOV. 17, 2023 • 3C

Memories from the Homestead: Eleven - Eleven - Eleven

feel at home during their nearly one-month stay in our community. When their work was done for the day, they took part in events and gatherings, from parties to church services.

Word was also received around here that the first boat

BY COWBOY JOHN FULLER- loads of materials were arTON, a native of Taney County, riving at the construction site and a member of the Sons of of the new dam downstream from Branson. This also the Pioneers. meant that large numbers of e’ve been bless- workers were needed. ed with wonderful Saturday, November 11, weather for this time of started around here as a year, and I feel that Satur- normal day with wonderful day’s Veteran’s Day Parade weather. By noon, the temwas one of the best. It was perature here was unseasona great day to salute our ably warm in the mid-70s American heroes. and continued to climb to Late that afternoon I just above 80 for a record joined Berry Wynn and high. After 3 p.m., things Randy Plummer for a short suddenly flipped. Those out Christmas concert at Big working on their land were Cedar Lodge where we per- not prepared for what was formed for their tree light- about to move in. ing ceremony. The sunset Springfield weatherman that evening was amazing.

John S. Hazen documented But looking to the past in the late afternoon events in our community history for his notes, which I’d like to a few moments, I want to share here, courtesy of the take ya’ll back 112 years to Springfield National WeathNovember 11, 1911. By the er Service archive. Hazen way, the 2023 calendar year wrote, “Increasing S to SW is identical to 1911 so this winds shifting to the NW day was a Saturday also. at 3:45 p.m. and attaining Weather officials and histori- an extreme velocity of 74 ans remember it as the Great miles for one minute. ConBlue Norther. It was one of siderable damage done to those tragic days that many buildings, wires, and trees. folks vividly remembered Many windows blown in for the rest of their lives. and several people injured.

What was it? Well, it was Record high temp. occurred indeed a day for the record about 2 p.m. and low temp. books. A strong fast mov- for this early in the month. ing Artic cold blast collided Temp. fell from 80 to 21 at with an above normal warm 7 p.m. Cold wave received air mass over the central part and given usual distribution. of the country. Here in the Hail, sleet, rain, and snow Ozarks and everywhere else, fell. First thunder at 4:52 it moved in quickly with no warning at all.

Here in our Garber neighborhood near the Taney/ Stone County line, the fall of 1911 had been most enjoyable. Several of my relatives were busy, many had been working in timber seeing success with sales of railroad ties and a number of the men were having great success in selling cedar fence posts. Our blacksmith David Bridge was seeing increased business during this time, to the point that he had to build an addition to his shop, which was located next to the J.K. Ross General Store and Garber Post Office building.

Pizza Cook Railroad crews had been Wanted camping along Roark Creek below Garber in the field across from Aunt Pearl’s childhood home and had been busy taking care of needed repairs. Workers were focused on the area from the Reeds Spring tunnel to Gretna, a distance of ten miles. The crews were managed by division engineer E.E. Hanna and bridge/ trestle superintendent I.A. Heatherson. These men and their crew were always professional and were made to

W

p.m. Last 6:10 p.m. Storms came from north.”

My uncles, aunts, great-grandparents, and others all recalled this particular day. Rushing to their homes for shelter while the temperature dropped 40 degrees in fifteen minutes with no jackets or coats for protection.

Fortunately around here, the storm damage was minimal.

But in many locations, especially north and northeast, the outcome was not good.

In Oklahoma the front brought dust storms. This was also reported across much of Kansas. Tornadoes were reported in Michigan, Illinois, Iowa, Indiana and Wisconsin.

The tornado in Janesville, Wisconsin, was believed to have winds near 150 mph.

There were nine fatalities and 50 injuries. In Chicago that day, a man died suddenly due to heat stroke and the following day two people froze to death. Much of Ohio saw blizzard conditions.

It was so fast, and extremely unfortunate for many. The record still stands today.

November 11 would officially be recognized as Veteran’s Day in 1954 when it was termed an official holiday by President Eisenhower when he designated an official Veteran’s Day National Committee. But the November 11 date goes back to 1918 when the end of World War I took place. The armistice between the allies and Germany was signed on that date, the eleventh hour, on the eleventh day, of the eleventh month.

The following year, November 11, 1919 President

Server Assistant Wanted

The high temps across the Midwest, November, 11, 1911. The front was known as the Great Blue Norther. (Graphic courtesy of the Weather Channel) Wilson proclaimed in his speech, “To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the coun-

try’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show

her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations.”

To all our veterans, we salute you and thank you for your service!

4C • NOV. 17, 2023

COMMUNITY

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Annual POW/MIA Service of Remembrance held during Branson’s Veterans Week 2023 Action, including many whose families have never received the closure they desperately need.

P.O.W. Network Chairman Mary Schantag welcomed the many veterans, families and friends in attendance. Branson High School Air Force JROTC posted the colors, followed by singing of the National Anthem by the Harmony Trio, and the Pledge of Allegiance and opening prayer were led

by Terri Howard.

After recognizing the families and dignitaries State Rep. Travis Smith was featured speaker. (Photo by Cynthia present, Schantag introduced the guest speaker, J. Thomas) Missouri State Rep. Travis Smith who represents brance was held in honor

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Missouri’s 155th District. of Americans from every Writer Smith opened by praising conflict since World War On Tuesday, Novemthe hope and spirit of our I who are listed as Prisber 8, the annual POW/ nation’s brave warriors, oner of War or Missing in MIA Service of Remem-

Need a flag or banner?

We have it!

including those still unaccounted for. He acknowledged the pain of the families still waiting, whom he described as heroes in their own right. He recalled his own memories of his mom talking about her brother, Capt. William Jay London, Jr., one of eight crew members and three passengers lost at sea on April 10, 1970. Three names of those aboard have not been positively identified; and due to technicalities of the law regarding the non-combat location of the loss, the names that are known have not been inscribed on the Vietnam Memorial Wall.

Following Rep. Smith’s remarks, Schantag explained that insult is added to injury when families never receive acknowledgement and gratitude for their loved one’s sacrifice. Some families choose to erect a cenotaph, a monument in honor of a person or group of people whose remains are elsewhere, such as burial at sea. Some MIA families, including Capt. London’s family, choose to proceed with a gravesite and inscribe the cenotaph “in memory of.” P.O.W. Network volunteers work year-round to help families access records, and also fight for changes in policy in hopes of their country honoring them in a fitting way.

Part of ensuring these

loved ones’ legacy is not forgotten, is speaking their names aloud in remembrance. As an important part of Wednesday’s service, attendees stood to speak names of friends, family and fellow soldiers as Network volunteer Jeanne Cooper tolled the bell in remembrance for each name. This powerful ceremony was followed by a hymn, sung by Harmony Trio as Mary Schantag placed the memorial wreath. Terri Howard then closed the service in prayer; Chris Conant provided Taps; and Branson

High School Air Force JROTC retired the colors.

Many attendees lingered to discuss memories and to find names on the traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall, hosted on the lawn area behind the Hyatt Vacation Club’s Lodges at Timber Ridge since the inception of Branson’s Veterans Homecoming Week. P.O.W. Network is grateful for the resort’s generosity in hosting the annual Service of Remembrance and in allowing veterans, families and friends a place to pay tribute each year.

Audience at attention as the Branson Air Force JROTC members retire the colors (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas)

Rose Petal ceremony during Veterans Week celebrates the service of women

American • Military • Garden Sports • State • Countries • Decals Military Hats...and more!

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer The Stone Castle Hotel and Conference Center was the site of a special ceremony during Veterans Homecoming Week.

The annual Rose Petal Ceremony was designed to honor women veterans.

Women from all branches of the military service were invited to enjoy lunch, catered

by Big D’s BBQ, Local Fla-

vor and Gourmet Bouquet.

The 19th annual event was hosted by Pat Veach, Director of Sales and Marketing at the Clay Cooper Theater and Vice-Chair of the Branson Veterans Task Force.

Colonel Kelly Zachgo, U.S. Army Retired, served as the keynote speaker for the touching program. Musical performances included Bran-

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A rose petal is dropped into the water as part of the ceremony honoring women veterans.

(Photo by K.D. Michaels) son entertainer and U.S. Army Veteran Jeanna Kilbane, who offered the National Anthem; and Rena Peterson, U.S. Army Specialist, with The Ragged Ol’ Flag. SGM Bob Smithers, U.S. Army Retired, performed Taps; and the Pledge of Allegiance, was led

by Krista Meadows, daughter of the late Brenda Meadows, a veteran and former editor of the Branson Globe.

The highlight of the afternoon was the rose petal release, in honor of women who have given their lives in service to their country. Each woman in attendance was invited to place a rose petal into a bowl of water, while being reminded that their service and their sacrifices had not been taken lightly.

bransonglobe.com

COMMUNITY

Reader’s

Corner:

Encourage

reading

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer With Christmas in just a few short weeks, what better way to encourage reading than with a reading-themed gift?

That’s what I thought recently when I clicked on a social media ad for some cute T-shirts about libraries and reading. At first glance, the website looked like something by a homeschooling family teaching their kids some entrepre-

neurship skills, or maybe a talented crafter who likes to read, so I ordered a shirt for myself to check out the quality, thinking I might order more for gifts.

Unfortunately, my assumption was wrong: Digging deeper into the website, I found broken English and grammatical errors, and when I clicked the link to track my package, it didn’t work. In response to my angry email, I received a link to

a generic tracking site somewhere in China, showing the path of the package onto a container ship and through customs—NOT what I had in mind to support. (After venting to my web-savvy daughter, I learned more about making sure that didn’t happen again.)

Fortunately, there are some great alternatives! A couple of weeks after that annoying occurrence, I visited the War Eagle Craft Fair

in Arkansas, where I really did meet an enterprising, book-loving family like the one I envisioned. At their innovative and well-thoughtout booth, they offered good quality shirts, plus gift items, stickers and décor. Their original designs incorporate the family’s dedication to reading and another of their hobbies—vintage typewriters! I was hooked—and this time, I really do know I’m supporting a family

NOV. 17, 2023 • 5C

with

local

business. They plan to be at more Ozarks area craft fairs in the future, and they sell online, too; check out Carpe Librum Crafts at www.BeAwesomeReadBooks.com.

Of course, in addition to T-shirts and fun stickers, a book itself is a timeless gift, especially if it also includes the gift of quality time enjoying it with your child or grandchild. I’m impressed with Dr. Ben Carson’s patriotic books for kids,

gifts

available online as well as locally at the Freedom Encounter Theater gift shop.

Dick’s 5 & 10 on Main Street has a good selection of children’s classics; while you’re downtown, also stop by 417 Books. And don’t forget the area library thrift shops! That’s obviously not an all-inclusive source list, but I’m so glad we have good choices locally for great reading material. Merry Christmas!

Thrift Store to close: A statement from the Taneyhills Library Board Submitted to Branson Globe The Taneyhills Library announces the closing of its Thrift Store as of Feb. 29, 2024 The Thrift Store has been a longstanding tradition in the Branson community, providing much-needed funding for the library.

Thanks to the generosity of donors and loyal shoppers, the Taneyhills Library Thrift

Store has served as the Library’s primary source of income for many years.

For over 90 years, dedicated volunteers have worked diligently to keep the Library doors open. The Library is grateful for the many volunteers who have worked tirelessly to make the Thrift Store one of the best-loved resale stores in

the community. Without their commitment of time and talent, the Thrift Store would have never achieved the success it has enjoyed.

The main purpose of the Thrift Store was to fund the Library. Thanks to our supporters voting YES for a new publicly-funded Library, the Library will now have a stable source

of income. While we look forward to a modern Library Center that meets the growing needs of our community, vacating the Thrift Store will give the Library much-needed study space and meeting rooms until a larger facility is available.

The Thrift Store will remain open, operating “Business as Usual” throughout

the months of November and December. As of January 2, the store will begin clearing out merchandise, with an anticipated closing date of February 29, 2024.

The Library’s Used Book Store will remain open and will expand to include DVDs, more puzzles and games, greeting cards, and limited decor items.

The Taneyhills Library Thrift Store and Used Book Store are currently open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The stores are located in the lower level of the Taneyhills Library, 200 South 4th Street in downtown Branson.

Since 1964: Pecan sales a longstanding tradition at Taneyhills Library

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer The Taneyhills Library is in the midst of their biggest—and longest-running fundraiser.

Pecan sales have been a tradition at the Taneyhills Library since 1964. According to the book “Bringing Books to the Ozarks,” which shares the rich history of the Taneyhills Library, pecans were introduced as a fundraising idea

by Cathy Hunt, who served as the Library Corresponding Secretary, and chairperson of the Ways and Means Committee.

Hunt had made a recent trip to Atlanta, Georgia, where she enjoyed sampling some fresh pecans, and was determined her friends in the Ozarks would also enjoy the treat.

According to the book,

“Back home she proposed selling packages of the shelled Georgia pecans as a money-making project and 25 cases were ordered.

When the pecans arrived, Cathy and Eleanor Coleman drove all over the countryside, selling them at homes and motels. Mayme Boren also sold the pecans at Stonewall Court and Bill Ellen Hall offered the packages to vacationers and everyone else she met.

The initial shipment was soon gone and ten more cases were ordered. Before the November meeting, the Ways and Means committee had reaped $481 in profits from the sale of pecans.”

Pecans continue to be in high demand, with people calling in early September to see when the pecans will be arriving. The Library’s

pecans are ordered from the Mascot Pecan Company in Glennville, Georgia, in business since 1955.

Marcia Schemper-Carlock, Director of the Taneyhills Library, shared her thoughts on why the items are so popular.

“What makes the pecans unique is that they are fresh. Picking usually begins in October,” said Schemper-Carlock.

“We

place our order in August to make sure we are part of the first shipment. That gives our customers plenty of time for holiday baking.

Because we have such a high demand for the pecans, we started taking pre-orders. This allows us to efficiently process the orders.

In addition to pecan halves and pieces, we also order the novelty products, such as pecan clusters, roasted

and salted pecans, and the popular Seven Wonders sampler of Mascot treats.”

Schemper-Carlock continued, “This year we ordered nearly 900 items, ranging from pecan halves to chocolate covered pecans.

The Library anticipates raising approximately $3,000 from the fundraiser.

In the past the money from pecan sales has been used to

.

cover operating expenses.

The Taneyhills Library still has a large selection of pecans halves, pecan pieces, roasted and salted cashews, roasted and salted pecans, pecan caramel clusters, and chocolate covered ecans available. To purchase items for your holiday baking or for gift giving, stop by the Taneyhills Library, 200 South 4th Street in downtown Branson.

6C • NOV. 17, 2023

COMMUNITY

bransonglobe.com

Dedicated veteran volunteer honored at Medics/Nurses reunion during 2023 Veterans Homecoming Week have thanked” the medical staff. Coordinator Becky Jewsbury shared a touching video, “LZ in the Sky,” and pointed out that medical personnel “need closure too,” as they witness terrible things while doing what needs to be done. That sentiment was echoed by keynote speaker Staff Sgt. Chris Wright, an Army healthcare specialMargie Williamson (red shirt) was honored with a quilt for her ist who served in Operamilitary service and continued commitment to volunteering. tion Iraqi Freedom treating (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas) U.S. and Coalition forces.

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff guard from Forsyth High As Wright shared some of School ROTC; Charleigh his experiences and photos, Writer As part of Veterans Home- Voliva who led the Pledge other nurses and medics in coming Week, the Seventh of Allegiance; Tony Wilson attendance were invited to Annual Reunion for Combat who gave the invocation; comment with experiences Medics and Nurses was held and Savannah and Hayley of their own.

Attendees also learned on Friday, November 10, at Jewsbury who provided about the DOVE Program Westgate Resort Branson beautiful vocal music.

(Donor Outreach for VetThese gatherings were inWoods. Several volunteers erans), which coordinates helped make it a special spired by a Purple Heart reliving kidney donors for the occasion, including a color cipient who “wished he could

more than 2,000 veterans awaiting a kidney transplant, often as a result of toxic exposures incurred during their service. A group of donors, including the one donor/recipient pair, shared their stories, emphasizing that kidney donation does not adversely affect the future health of the donor. (Learn more at www. dovetransplant.org.)

A highlight of the reunion was the presentation of a Quilt of Honor to Margie Williamson, a familiar volunteer at veterans’ and POW Network events. Williamson served over 21 years in the Navy, Army, and National Guard, deployed to Panama, Ecuador, Costa Rica and Iraq, using her training as a combat medical specialist, nurse, dental tech and behavioral science

specialist in the MASH unit, surgical hospitals and ambulance runs across the sands in response to the cry for “Medic!” After retirement, she married a Vietnam veteran who passed away just five years later due to Agent Orange exposure.

At Friday’s event, Table Rock Quilts of Honor members surprised Margie Williamson with her personal “quilted hug of gratitude,” for her military service and her continued commitment to other veterans through her volunteer work.

Williamson, who had no idea she was to be honored with a quilt at the Reunion, had arranged for quilter Noreen Hinton to make a patriotic quilt as a raffle fundraiser for Homecoming Week. Hinton and her hus-

band, a Navy West PACer, donated the quilt and were able to make the Branson stop for a Navy reunion and the quilt raffle while enroute home to Vermont from a trip to visit West Coast shipmates. In a light-hearted coincidental twist, Margie Williamson introduced Noreen Hinton, presided over the pulling of the winning raffle ticket for the beautiful quilt, and immediately afterward, was surprised with the gift of a quilt herself!

As with the other Veterans Week reunions, the value of spending time with people who understand was evident as attendees lingered to chat and share experiences.

If you served in this capacity, or know someone who does/did, be sure to plan for next year’s gathering.

Branson Parks & Recreation special events spark Christmas spirit Submitted to Branson Globe Ignite your Ozark Mountain Christmas spark with family fun activities! Register now for these events as the holidays are quickly approaching – and even the most Scrooge-like among us need a dose of Christmas spirit.

Give back with ADOPT-ASENIOR FOR CHRISTMAS

Help bring holiday fun to local seniors during this important time of year. Many elderly often feel blue missing loved ones gone long ago or once-bright cheer of Christmases past. If you are interested in sharing joy, the Branson Parks & Recreation Department is teaming up with the ‘SeniorAge

Area Agency on Aging’ to provide gifts, appreciation, and well wishes to Branson area senior citizens. You can Adopt-A-Senior by picking up a wish list from the Branson Community Center or Branson RecPlex starting November 20, 2023. You can also request a wish list by emailing Community Center Coordinator Traci Burrow at tburrow@bransonmo.gov. Gifts should be returned to the Branson RecPlex or Branson Community Center no later than Monday,

December 11, 2023.

Experience the fun of a FLASHLIGHT CANDY CANE HUNT Have you heard? A special troupe of Santa’s elves is leaving candy canes all over Branson’s Eiserman Park on Friday, December 8, 2023, and we need Santa’s helpers to collect them all! Enjoy hot cocoa and pictures with Santa before going on an exciting Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt. Bring your own flashlight and dress for the weather. You must pre-register

(online/information below) your kids in the appropriate time block: • 6:15 p.m. – 0-4 years old • 6:30 p.m. – 5-8 years old • 6:45 p.m. – 9-12 years old Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time to check-in. Remember, pre-registration online is a must for this event! Use this link to register online, https://www.bransonparksandrecreation.com/835/ Flashlight-Candy-CaneHunt or register in person at the Branson RecPlex. For more information visit the Special Events section of our website, BransonParksandRecreation.com Enjoy BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

Just in the “Nick” of time, Santa is scheduling a Branson breakfast! Bring the kids to see Santa as he makes a special visit to the Branson RecPlex for the annual Breakfast with Santa, presented by McDonald’s, on Saturday, December 9, 2023. The cost is $6 per person with three sessions available at 8:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Every child 12 and under will receive a gift from Santa!

Register online at https:// www.bransonparksandrecreation.com/736/Breakfast-with-Santa.

For any questions about these special events, please call the Branson RecPlex at 417-335-2368.

bransonglobe.com

COMMUNITY

NOV. 17, 2023 • 7C

Brussels and Bacon

BY CHEF JEFF WOODWARD, THE ROGUE CHEF TIme: 1 hour Servings: 8 Ingredients: • 2 lbs Brussel Sprouts • 1 lb Bacon • ½ C Bacon Fat • 1 T Black Pepper • 1 T Pink Sea Salt

Instructions: 1. Preheat the oven to 375º.

2. Parcook the bacon for 10 minutes.

3. Trim the ends of brussel sprouts and cut in half.

4. Place on a baking sheet tray.

5. Slice bacon into small strips and spread over brussel sprouts.

6. Heat bacon fat and pour over bacon and brussel sprouts.

7. Sprinkle salt and pepper over brussels.

8. Stir brussel sprouts and bacon to coat with ba-

con fat.

9. Place in the oven and cook for 30 mins. Stir.

Cook for another 20 mins.

10. Serve warm.

GO ROGUE by drizzling a Pomegranate Balsamic Vinegar as garnish.

Want Chef Jeff, The

French 75

BY KERRY DAWN GREEN Servings: 2 I had never heard of this cocktail before; now it’s one of my favorites!

Ingredients: • 2 oz. fresh lemon juice • 1/4 oz. simple syrup • 3 oz. gin • 3 oz. champagne

Rogue Chef, to make this delicious side dish or any other meal for you? Contact him at www.TheRogueChefBranson.com.

Favorite Buttermilk Biscuits Instructions: 1. Combine juice, syrup and ginger in a cocktail shaker filled with ice and shake well.

2. Strain into two flutes.

3. Top slowly with champagne and garnish with a strip of lemon zest.

Servings: 6 to 8 Ingredients: • 2 cups all purpose flour • 2 tsp. baking powder • 1/4 tsp. baking soda • 1/4 tsp. salt • 1/2 cup butter

• 3/4 cup cold buttermilk Instructions: 1. Heat oven to 450º.

2. Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl.

3. Cut in the butter with a knife or pastry blender until the mixture looks crumbly 4. Stir in buttermilk (regular milk is fine, too) just

until moistened.

5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently 10 times.

6. Roll out dough to 1/2- to 3/4-inch thick. Cut with biscuit cutter.

7. Bake on a parchment or foil lined pan for 10 - 14 minutes, or until nicely browned.

Our skillet story: Childhood memory inspires flavorful favorite at Silver Dollar City Submitted to Branson Globe You may not know Shirley Tolar’s name but we bet a silver dollar you’ve heard about our hearty helpings of her culinary claim to fame.

More than 40 years ago, the food services team at Silver Dollar City was brainstorming new tasty treats for the park. Shirley had a flash of inspiration – right there in her frying pan.

“I remembered my favorite memory at my grandma Lizzie’s house, picking vegetables from her garden and chopping them up for lunch,” she smiles. “It’s the only time she let us use a knife and we felt so big!”

Her family would toss the veggies in a skillet after church along with chunks of chicken or ham and lots of savory spices. It was enough to feed the whole hungry herd of siblings and cousins.

“We loved it so much,” she gushes. “We never got tired of it. I almost think – as a kid – it tasted even better because we got to help make it!”

Flash forward four decades to that meeting about needing new food items at Silver Dollar City.

“I thought it would be a good way to honor grandma if I offered up that old recipe to my bosses at The City as the

new hot seller,” Shirley smiles.

“One of them said ‘Shirley never fails at anything, let’s give it a go!’ and that became our succotash story.”

The savory mix was such a hot hit that it caught the attention of folks at the okra plant in Stillwell, Oklahoma. Silver Dollar City quickly became the largest private consumer of okra in the United States.

“The plant people invited me to Oklahoma to be their “Okra Queen.” I got a crown and everything!” she laughs. “Goodness, that was a good time!”

From “Okra Queen” to “Queen of the Skillet,” Shirley’s royal idea all those years ago is still one of the park’s best sellers – dishing out more than 120,000 pounds of succotash and harvest skillets each year.

“It really blows my mind every time I think about how this all started by a memory from my childhood,” she says. “It warms my heart when people come up to me and tell me how much they love it. I know my grandma would just gobble this up!”

When guests ask Shirley for the recipe, she often gives them a signed copy.

“Isn’t that a fun legacy for a gal who spoke up four decades ago with a simple

idea?” she says. “I’m so glad I threw the idea out there to the team. Just goes to show you should never second-guess suggestions if you believe in them.”

Now in her 43rd year at the theme park, Shirley says she’s thought a few times about retiring, but there’s something about The City that keeps pulling her back.

“I can’t put a finger on it some days, but I know it’s the people, the fun!”

She beams. “More than that though, it’s how I feel working here. My team cares about me.”

After all these years, she still chuckles a bit about her famed skillets and the attention it brings.

“You know, I’ve even been in People magazine,” she laughs. “Carrie Underwood was in that same issue so my family always thought that was pretty neat.”

“Stardom” aside, Shirley says the heart of her skillet story always comes back to the encouragement she feels from everyone at the park.

“Even Jack and Peter

Herschend have gone out of their way to make me feel like part of the family through the years,” she says. “I just can’t say enough how it’s easy to work hard for folks who value you. My current team is the best of the bunch!

I’ve had 43 years of fun here. If I make it to 45, I might as well make it 50.”

Family Feud Succotash Recipe • 1 – 16 oz. package frozen breaded okra • 1 cup whole kernel corn (fresh or frozen) • 1 cup sliced yellow squash • ½ cup white onion (julienne sliced) • 1 cup green bell pepper (julienne sliced) • ½ lb. chicken breast, cut fajita style • 1 tsp. garlic powder • 1 tsp. salt • 1 tsp. pepper • ¼ cup olive oil In a large skillet sauté onions and peppers in 1 tsp. of olive oil; remove from skillet. Add corn and squash vegetables to the skillet, cooking until soft. Remove from skillet into a separate

Shirley Tolar (Photo courtesy of Silver Dollar City) bowl. Then add 1 tsp. of oil and chicken. Cook on medium until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and reserve until later. Add remaining oil to pan with the okra. Fry

until golden brown then add the salt, pepper and garlic. When okra is done, add back the vegetables and chicken, heating everything through. Serve and enjoy!

8C • NOV. 17, 2023

COMMUNITY

bransonglobe.com

College of the Ozarks hosts annual service to honor Veterans

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer College of the Ozarks honored area veterans in a special sunrise service last week.

“We had veterans from the community, friends and family of the veterans, staff, faculty students and administrators in attendance,” ex-

plained Valorie Coleman, Public Relations Director at College of the Ozarks, of the 7 a.m. event.

The ceremony included the raising of the American flag, a 21-Gun Salute, firing of a cannon, and a fly-over by a Huey Helicopter.

A wreath was placed in remembrance of our veterans by College President Dr. Brad Johnson. (Special to Branson Globe)

One of the event highlights was the placing of a wreath at the Alumni Veterans Memorial by Dr. Brad Johnson, College of the Ozarks President.

C of O student Grady Claybrook, and member of the campus Young America’s Foundation shared his thoughts on Veterans Day

and its meaning in a touching speech.

Captain Caleb Dunnam, Assistant Professor of Military Science noted that the College’s goal for the event was to provide citizens from outside the military an opportunity to connect with and reflect on the service of our veterans.

Great fellowship after all these years: World War II/Korea veterans’ reunion

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer On Wednesday, November 8, as part of Branson’s Veterans Homecoming Week, a very special group met at the AmericInn by Wyndham.

Eight World War II veterans and 13 Korean War veterans enjoyed fellowship, snacks and raffle items, and several generations were represented in at least two of the family groups accompanying their veteran.

Lt. David “Mac” McAllister, USN (Ret.) served as emcee for the reunion. McAllister, who served in Vietnam and has World War II family members, has a knack for involving the older veterans in conversation, including the joking that has continued for decades between U.S.

service branches, particularly the Marine Corps and the Navy. Some of the men were initially reticent as McAllister approached with the microphone, but the camaraderie soon had them sharing about their experiences.

“That’s one of the loneliest jobs in the war,” said one World War II veteran of his look-out post on a high vantage point overlooking the riflemen. “It’s hard to watch that. I’m just thankful to be home.”

Another World War II veteran, who would have been in a landing and invasion force in Japan had the U.S. not used the atomic bomb, stated, “Dropping that bomb saved hundreds of thousands of lives.” The same gentleman commented on the horrors of war for innocent civilians, as he served during

the Occupation along with fellow troops who were prepared to invade but instead found themselves working to clean up, keep order, and rebuild trust from civilians.

The reunion wasn’t all about sobering memories, as the attendees also enjoyed music from the era provided by vocalist Brooke Berger, who is a World War II veteran family member. Skyler, the patriotic young man who makes it his mission to greet and thank veterans, was also there to meet some of the oldest ones he will likely get to interact with. In addition to taking veterans on fishing trips, Skyler enjoys crafts.

He presented a handmade souvenir to each veteran, a custom “We the People” metalwork plaque to the oldest World War II veteran— Lou, age 102—and a cus-

tom mug to the oldest Korea veteran, who served in both wars and is 94.

The reunion wrapped up with drawings for raffle items; thanks to generous donors, every veteran present had his ticket drawn for something. Several drawings involved a shirt, hat, or blanket, wrapped around a bottle of wine, leading to comments about breathalyzers in the parking lot and checking ID to make sure the recipient was old enough. As the group made their way out, several told each other and the volunteers, “See you next year!”

Top: Emcee “Mac” McAllister encouraged attendees to tell their stories; Bottom: “Yes, I am old enough to drink this and I will drink it responsibly.”

(Photos by Cynthia J. Thomas)

Veterans enjoy annual Tribute Show at The Mansion

Don’t miss the 2023 edition of The Best Bets of Branson Live Talk Show, featuring Carrie Anne Mitchell and Shelley Carroll-Drew, at their new location, Premier Dance Academy at Turkey Creek Junction in Hollister, and streaming live on Facebook, Tik Tok, and Instagram, every Thursday at 11:15 am.

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.

Brought to you by our sponsors: Affordable Insulation Service, After Market Mushrooms, 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, King’s Castle Theatre, The Krafty Kitty Farm, LKS Lawncare, MarieZ, METAGOLF, Michele’s Floral & Gifts, Mintex Appliance Service, The Nashville Roadhouse Theater, Pizza World Mt. Branson, Premier Dance Academy, SignsNow, Sunfest Market, Sweet Shack, Tequila’s, and Wrangler’s Star Studded Honky Tonk. Contact Carrie @ 573-795-1921, or Shelley @ 417-593-9815 to find out how to become a sponsor.

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer For several years, veterans at Branson’s Veterans Homecoming Week have been treated to a Tribute to the Veterans Show at The Mansion Theatre, followed by lunch, both sponsored

by Walmart. This year’s event was held Thursday, November 9.

Walmart’s involvement started with an idea from coordinator Dee Elledge,

a former manager at a Branson Walmart, and has grown steadily. As area Walmart drivers and management teams gathered onstage, Branson Hills store manager Josh Stevens spoke on behalf of the group, reaffirming the company’s commitment to veterans, including employment opportunities.

The group included several veterans who now work for Walmart.

Prior to the show, the audience enjoyed a pre-show

by Woof for Vets, a nonprofit that trains and places service dogs for veterans at no charge for the recipient. Four area veterans received dogs at the show.

The pre-show also included a demonstration of K-9 civil defense and attack training. Veterans in attendance were invited to learn more or apply to receive a dog by visiting the Woof for Vets booth at Veterans Village or at www.woofforvets.org.

Following presentation of the colors by Branson High School JROTC, the Hughes Brothers led the National Anthem and Barbara Fairchild, serving as emcee with her husband, Roy Morris, led the opening prayer.

Dee Elledge directed the audience’s attention to the white table onstage, set for one with an empty chair, in honor and remembrance of POW and MIA soldiers whose families are not able to share special events with

These four veterans received a new canine friend from Woof for Vets. (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas) them. Kathy Strong then told her story of wearing a POW/MIA bracelet for 38 years for James Moreland, declared missing in 1968 while serving in special forces in Vietnam. Strong, visiting from California, also presented a plaque in Moreland’s honor at the Branson Veterans Memorial Garden.

Featured speaker for the show was Leonard Dent, who served 34 years in the Canadian military. His message was one of positive ex-

periences and collaboration between the U.S. and Canadian forces, including Americans who joined Canadian forces prior to formal U.S. entry into World War II and Canadian support during Vietnam and the Gulf War. Dent also shared some humorous moments, such as a funny Christmas caroling story involving American politician Joseph McCarthy.

Dent concluded by saying he has seen and lived lots of places, but North America is still the best place to live. He thanked every service member, saying every single person serving is important, and also thanked spouses.

In addition to the Hughes Brothers, musical highlights included singer/songwriter John Tweed; SIX; and Fairchild and Morris, who presented “The Soldier” as a final musical tribute for the day.

Live on Stage

Family Music City Centre • December 9 & 10, 16 & 17 PURCHACE TICKETS AT MUCITYCENTRE.COM

bransonglobe.com

Andy

Williams

BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer A popular performance venue is once again for sale.

After being purchased in 2021 by the Redmon

Moon

family and operated during the 2022 season, the Andy Williams Moon River Theater is now being offered for sale.

According to the More-

ENTERTAINMENT

River

no Group Commercial Realty website, the theater, built in 1992, is available for an asking price of $5,700,000. The 45,000 square foot theater

Theater

again

is located on 11.57 acres, bordered on the north by 76 Country Boulevard.

The Moreno Group site indicates that the theater, which seats more than

NOV. 17, 2023 • 9C

listed

2,000, includes a large lobby, concession area, and an on-site owner’s apartment, as well as over a million dollars in new LED signs and equipment.

for

sale

The Moreno Group is offering showings to qualified buyers. For more information, contact Caleb Moreno at 417-351-3131.

‘Narnia’ production coming to Freedom Encounter in December

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer Freedom Encounter Theater is excited to host the Logos Theatre production of C.S. Lewis’s tale, “The Horse and His Boy,” this December!

Part of the “Chronicles of Narnia” series, the story involves Shasta and his talking horse, Bree, who plan their escape from

slavery to the land of Narnia and freedom. As they encounter more danger than they could have imagined, the journey becomes a race against time not just to escape slavery but to save Narnia and the North!

A cast of 45 actors, lifesize puppetry, and incredible costuming and scenery combine to make “The Horse and His Boy” one

of the most sought-after productions in this year’s holiday line-up across the country.

The Logos Theatre is part of the Academy of Arts headquartered in South Carolina. Abigail Pierce, who was recently at Freedom Encounter to help plan for the upcoming performances, stated that the mission of the Acade-

my is to give people who are gifted in performing arts a way to use those gifts for God’s glory, blessing audiences with excellent quality productions.

“The production is very close to the book,” Pierce shared, “as it’s important that we accurately portray the spiritual truths Lewis communicates through his writing.”

Performance dates in Branson are the weekends of December 7-9 and 1416. Available times include 7 p.m. on Thursdays, December 7 and 14; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Fridays, December 8 and 15; and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturdays, December 9 and 16.

A special 10:30 a.m. performance has also been added for December 7, to accom-

modate school groups and homeschool families.

Freedom Encounter Theater is located at 3220 Falls Parkway in Branson.

Ticket prices start at $33 and discounts are available using the code ASLAN online; visit www.freedomjourneyshow.com/thehorse-his-boy to order. To inquire about group rates, call 864-268-9342.

Dates set for Randy Plummer’s ‘Snowdeer’ Christmas production Submitted to Branson Globe A beloved Christmas production returns to the Branson stage this holiday season.

“Snowdeer Christmas

Story,” written and produced by Branson entertainer Randy Plummer, will be performed at the Shepherd of the Hills Playhouse.

“This is an original story about an Ozark solid white deer by the name of Snowdeer who has a Christmas wish to go to the North Pole to see San-

ta and help deliver gifts to children and animals around the world,” Plummer explained.

Shows are set for Saturday, December 9, at 12 noon

and Sunday, December 10, at 8 p.m. at the Shepherd of the Hills Playhouse.

Tickets are $15 for ages 16 and above, and $7 for children 3 to 15. Ages 2

and under are free.

Tickets will be on sale at the Shepherd of the Hills Playhouse one hour before show time on the day of the production.

Just keep swimming: ‘Finding Nemo JR’ is onstage at historic Owen Theatre Submitted to Branson Globe The Branson Regional Arts Council proudly presents its Winter Youth Theatre Production of Disney’s Finding Nemo JR, a musical adaptation of Disney-Pixar’s popular animated film Finding Nemo. This junior version of the musical is specifically designed for younger performers and audiences of all ages. Rated G for Great Family Fun! Performances at the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson run November 30 through December 10, 2023.

Showtimes are Thursday, Friday, Saturday (7 p.m.) and Saturday, Sunday (2 p.m.). Advance ticket reservations are highly recommended and can be purchased online at BransonArts.org/tix or by calling the box office at 417336-4255. Tickets are $20 (adults 18-plus) and $12 (youth 4-17). Lap children under four are free.

Co-directed by Kyle and Kellsey Bradley, the story closely follows the plot of the original movie, taking the audience on an underwater adventure with Marlin, a clownfish, and his forgetful friend Dory as they search for Marlin’s son, Nemo, who has been captured by a diver and placed in a fish tank. The musical includes many other beloved characters from the film, including Crush the Sea Turtle and Bruce the Shark, and features memorable songs such as “Just Keep Swimming,” “Fish Are Friends Not Food,” and “Go With the

Thank you for reading the

Flow.”

Finding Nemo JR. offers an opportunity for young area actors and actresses to showcase their talents while delivering important themes of family, friendship and perseverance in a highly entertaining way!

Cast members of Finding Nemo JR include Josslynn Silvy / Zoey Viola (Nemo), Ben Stevens (Marlin), Emma Spurling (Dory), Lundyn Mitchell (Professor Ray), Katie Linn (Scuba Mask Dancer), Josh Reed (Bruce), Jack Brown (Chum), Brooklyn Giannotti (Anchor), Indy Griffith (Bubbles), Hallie Groff (Bloat), Alivia Prince (Gurgle), Jillian Reed (Peach), Caleb Spurling (Gill), Ryan Merrifield (Nigel), Jael Frost (Crush), Alton Prince (Squirt), Scarlett McManus (Kai), Brenna Prince (Breeze), Paisley Buttram (Pearl), Emma Chandler (Sheldon), Greyson Stevens (Tad), Maggie Marks (Angel-

fish), Grady Stevens (Damselfish), Promise Brunson (Pearl’s Parent), Emma Callaway (Sheldon’s Parent), Evan Carr (Tad’s Parent), Rylin Chick, Giovanni Verastegui, Gracie Floer (Moonfish), Kate Sutherland, Luke Johnson, Kynadee Carter, Reagan Hoagland, Royal Steelman, Gwendolyn Tsahiridis, Scout McManus, Caleb Linn, Katy Patton, Anabella Meyer, ToriAnne Lyons, Lexi Carr, Ezra Williams, Xia McElwee and Layla Gabriel (Young Sea Chorus).

Supporting the BRAC Youth Theatre Education Programs and this production of Disney’s Finding Nemo JR is important for several reasons.

Nurturing creativity: BRAC’s Youth theatre programs provide a platform for young residents to explore their creativity, develop their artistic talents, and express themselves through acting, singing and dancing. It encourages a love for the

arts and helps participants discover their potential.

Building confidence: Involvement in theatre, especially for youth, can boost self-confidence. It teaches public speaking, teamwork and the ability to perform in front of an audience, which are valuable life skills.

Fostering inclusivity: Theatre promotes diversity and inclusivity, allowing participants of various backgrounds and abilities to come together and collaborate. It’s an opportunity to celebrate differences and work towards a common goal.

Community engagement: BRAC’s youth theatre productions involve the local community, from parents and

volunteers to audiences. This strengthens our community bonds and supports a sense of togetherness.

Educational value: Theatre can be an educational tool, teaching history, culture and various subjects through storytelling. Finding Nemo JR can teach environmental awareness and the importance of protecting marine life.

Entertainment: Youth theatre productions like Finding Nemo JR offer enjoyable and family-friendly entertainment.

They give families the chance to share in the joy of a live performance in the intimate setting of the Historic Owen Theatre.

Future talent devel-

opment: Many successful actors, directors and artists started their careers in youth theatre.

Supporting these endeavors contributes to the development of future talent in the entertainment industry.

Supporting youth theatre and Branson Regional Arts Council productions like Finding Nemo JR has a positive impact on the personal growth of young individuals, our community, and the arts as a whole. It’s a valuable investment in creativity, education and cultural enrichment.

Swim on over to the Historic Owen Theatre and reserve your seats now for this fun musical holiday production!

10C • NOV. 17, 2023

bransonglobe.com

Worship Directory You are encouraged to worship with us!

God & Country Cowboy Church 10:30 am Sunday@ God & Country Theatre (On Hwy. 76 next to Applebee’s)

Pastor Ron Boldman Featuring

God & Country Cowboy church band & Special Guest Entertainers

And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.– Hebrews 10:25

TRADITIONAL WORSHIP 9 A.M. MODERN WORSHIP 11 A.M. SUNDAY SCHOOL SMALL GROUPS 10 A.M.

417-334-3423

Pastor@BransonUMC.org BransonUMC.org

Lynn Dyke – Pastor 1208 W. 76 Country Blvd.

3

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lassifieds

NOV. 17, 2023 • 11C

DEADLINE FOR FRIDAY’S PAPER: Wednesdays @ 10 a.m.

GET YOUR ALWAYS-FREE BRANSON GLOBE DELIVERED TO YOUR EMAIL INBOX! Go to www.bransonglobe.com and subscribe to our site today...then watch for your paper on Thursday.

NOTICES

NOTICES

FOR SALE

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

HUNTERS: Donate your deer hides to the Elks Veterans Program. Your hides will be used to make leather gloves for handicapped veterans, and provide tanned leather to make occupational therapy kits to be distributed to veterans homes and hospitals throughout the country. Call Nathan Brooks, 417-263-6283 for pickup or drop off locations. ELKS NATIONAL VETERANS SERVICE COMMISSION

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!

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

SHO-ME CLEAN & SHOME FLOORING: Learn a trade! Now taking applications. Call 417-263-1963.

1 & 2 BR APARTMENT HOMES

THE CITY OF FORSYTH is taking applications for Finance Officer. Responsible for payroll, accounts payable, financial reporting, general ledger reconciliation, budget preparation, auditing duties, and other tasks supporting the operations of the City. Pre-employment drug screening, work clearance through E-Verify, and background and credit checks are required. Pay will depend on experience. The City provides health, dental, and life insurance; retirement; and 13 paid holidays per year. Vacation and sick time available after the first year.

Applications are available online at www.forsythmo. gov News & Events tab, or at city hall. Submit completed application and resume with references in person at Forsyth City Hall, 15405 U.S. Hwy. 160, Forsyth, MO, or by email to cbeasley@forsythmo.gov. City of Forsyth is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

1 BR STARTING @ $595/MO 2 BR STARTING @ $725/MO

LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT EMPLOYEE? A classified ad in the Branson Globe reaches thousands each week. Run at ad just like this for just $21.25!

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.

GRIEF SHARE SUPPORT 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.

IF MY PEOPLE, WHICH ARE CALLED BY MY NAME, shall humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14

SERVICES OFFERED MASTER ELECTRICIAN. 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.

WEEKLY MOTEL ROOM RENTAL: Family friendly.

Deposit and rule agreement required. Cable/WiFi, fridge and micro included. Branson West 417-272-8414.

APTS/CONDOS/HOMES

LUXURY 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.

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

MR. GILBERTI’S PLACE. Now hiring all positions. Fun, working atmosphere. Come in and fill out an application. 1451 Arcadia Club Rd., Hollister.

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 417-334-4105 or apply in person at 11103 Historic Hwy. 165, Hollister, MO. EOE

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

Furnished Units, Carports & Lakeviews Available

CALL 417-546-3334 Shepherd of the Hills Estates www.soheapts.com

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

OFFICE SPACE FREE

! OLD NEAN REMAINS GOOF MOBILE HOME. OBE Will E GLand TH pay for removal I have a!

N AI636IF YOU ARE A MILITARY dumpster at Ithe G A location.

T DOES VETERAN in need of a place 495-8091. to live, please call us and we’ll try to meet your needs. GUMI MOVING/GARAGE SALES CAMP USA 417-559-3892 GARAGE SALE: NOV. 16 Eliminate high heating & 17, Thurs. & Friday – 8 bills with Central Boiler’s a.m. – 5 p.m. 1804 Boswell NEW, certified Classic Edge Ave., Branson. Lots of crystal Titanium HDX OUTDOOR glass, antique living room set WOOD FURNACE. Call and much more.

Ozark Stove and Chimney today. 417-201-6585

ROOMS FOR RENT

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.

HELP WANTED

ESTATE SALE: NOV. 17 AND 18, Fri – Sat. 8 a.m.-6 p.m. 200 Street Rod Rd. Hollister.

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.

HOME TO SELL OR ROOM TO RENT? Let the Globe help you get the word out. Reach thousands of readers each week with an ad just like this for only $17.75!

Add a little color to your advertising, and watch readers BEAUTIFUL QUEEN SOFA SLEEPER and cedar take notice! Run an closet. Call 417-739-5321 ad just like this one for just $21 a week!

FOR SALE

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION 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.

THE AMERICAN LEGION POST #220 invites all former and current US Military friends to join us Monday mornings at 9 a.m. for coffee and pastries!!

Come join us at Faith Lutheran Church, 221 Malone Dr., Branson, MO. We look forward to meeting you!! HOOAH!!

SOLD! BE THE GLO IN! RED ELECTRIC A AGSCOOTITwheels.

ESfour ER with Drive DO is the company that makes them, and it’s in excellent condition with new batteries. $395, firm. I also have a transfer bench still in the box that I paid $120 for and asking $50, firm. 417-527-5317.

YOUR AD WOULD LOOK GREAT HERE!

CALL 417-334-9100

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 OFFICE HOURS: 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday

TO ENSURE THE BEST RESPONSE TO YOUR AD...

Please make sure your ad is correct in the first issue in which it appears. The Branson Globe is responsible for one day’s charge of the space occupied by the error. If your ad is not correct, call us immediately to have it corrected.

12C • NOV. 17, 2023

On this date in history...

• 1896 Power plant at Niagara Falls begins operation • 1908 Albert Einstein presents his quantum theory of light • 1965 U.S. government sends 90,000 soldiers to Vietnam • 1968 Yale University announces it is going coeducational • 1969 Apollo 12 (Conrad/Gordon/Bean) launched for second manned moon landing • 1988 Sitcom “Murphy Brown” premieres on CBC • 1991 American and British authorities announce indictments against two Libyan intelligence officials for the downing of Pan Am Flight 103 • 1991 Michael Jackson’s “Black or White” music video with groundbreaking morphing effects premieres simultaneously in 27 countries on MTV, Fox TV and BBC’s Top of the Pops • 1997 Disney’s “Lion King”

bransonglobe.com

Family Crossword

sets Broadway record of $2,700,000 daily sale • 2002 The United States House of Representatives votes not to create an independent commission to investigate the September 11 attacks • 2008 Hong Kong becomes the second Asian economy to tip into recession, its exports hit by weakening global demand • 2015 Second Democratic

presidential candidate debate, broadcast by CBS, held in Des Moines, Iowa • 2016 U.S. talk show “Tucker Carlson Tonight” hosted by Tucker Carson premieres on Fox • 2020 Record global daily total of 660,905 COVID-19 cases declared to the WHO, with total known infections over 54 million

Ocean Cruising Word find from Beck Museums of Branson • AFT • HULL • BOW • KEEL • HELM • WAKE • STERN • CREW • CABIN • GALLEY • PORTER • PURSER • TENDER • CAPTAIN • MIDSHIP • FORWARD • SNACKING • CROSSING • PORTHOLE • PORT SIDE • GANGWAY • LIDO DECK • PILOT BOAT • STARBOARD • STATEROOMS • DEPARTURE • GANGPLANK • GREAT FOOD • PORT OF CALL • DECK CHAIRS

Solution: onlinecrosswords. net/7153 Across 1. Napoleon’s place of exile 5. Graduate’s keepsake 11. Word with gloss or stick 14. Beach scavenger 15. One way to be washed 16. “The Yearling” mother 17. 1988 thriller with Steven Seagal 19. One of the Bobbsey twins 20. Poured out 21. Cake topping 23. Stimpy’s cartoon buddy 24. Home, por favor 26. Motion detector 30. Sleep stage 31. Looks at curves?

35. Computer correspondence 36. Galileo’s birthplace 37. Baseball brothers’ surname 38. Politically moderate 41. “Would ___ to you?”

42. ___ Romeo (imported auto) 43. Gives temporarily 44. Belgrade resident 45. USSR successor 46. Excessively precious 47. Type of chamber 49. Scammed 50. Thin soup 53. Bullfighter 58. Comparison words 59. In custody 62. Campers, e.g.

63. Type of farmer 64. Ibuprofen target 65. Mentally bright

66. Mingo portrayer 67. Bygone big birds Down 1. Victorian exclamation 2. Service-station service 3. Coalition 4. Edison’s middle name 5. Reduce to rags 6. “White as a sheet!”

7. Molt 8. Costa del ___ 9. Historic period 10. Jerry of comedy 11. Anderson of “WKRP in Cincinnati” 12. Location of Qom 13. Sudden twinge 18. Register formally 22. Tony winner of 1967 and 1998 24. Jai alai basket 25. Nanking nurse 26. Finals prelude

27. Rousseau novel 28. Lowest point 29. Extra wager 30. Jazzmen’s specialties 32. End of a Garbo line 33. Natterjacks, e.g.

34. Like good dish water 36. Salk’s conquest 39. “Into ___ life ...”

40. Escape artist, e.g.

46. Jeweler’s measures 48. Laundry repository 49. Lena of “The Wiz” 50. Theda of movie fame 51. Letters on an invitation 52. Brewer’s oven 53. Ravens, for example 54. Name in a Saroyan title 55. Art follower 56. Job safety org.

57. Country rds.

60. Actor Beatty 61. Genetic letters

Sudoku See more fun puzzles at: https://www.puzzles.ca/sudoku/

Last week’s Sudoku solution

• UPPER DECK • OCEAN VIEW • CRUISE CASUAL

• CRUISE ELEGANT • CRUISE DIRECTOR • SHORE EXCURSION

Fall for our fascining finds!

S designs & exhibits by America’s Murali Raine Clfelter VETERAN OWNED

Kids 5 & under FREE! • Passes good all day • Open Mon. - Sat., 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. • 3609 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, MO 65616 • 417-332-1499 • worldslargesttoymuseum.com