And observe what the LORD your God requires: Walk in obedience to him, and keep his decrees and commands, his laws and regulations... – 1 Kings 2:3
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INSIDE:
The Branson Globe was granted a rare exclusive interview with Santa Claus. Santa took time out of his busy pre-Christmas schedule to answer some very important questions.
• Around Town...... 8B • Churches.......... 10C • Classifieds......... 11C • Fun & Games.... 12C • Obituaries........ 10A • Voices ................ 1B • Weather........... 10A
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer Branson Globe: How old are you, Santa? Santa Claus: I am 1,753 years old (but that is a young age for an elf)! Branson Globe: Where is the North Pole located? Santa Claus: It’s all the way up, as high as you can go. When you get to the very top, you start going South, in any direction, and there we are! Branson Globe: What do you do the rest of the year, when you’re not busy delivering toys? Santa Claus: I vacation here in Branson. I’ve been doing that for quite a while now, Mrs. Claus and I. We leave the elves at the North Pole. They take care of all of the reindeer. The reindeer wouldn’t last too long down here in this nice, warm climate. So, we try to keep them up there. We train them to get them ready for the special night once a year. Rudolph, as he gets older, is a little boisterous sometimes. The other reindeer are very gentle, but Rudolph can be rowdy from time to time. Branson Globe: How many elves do you have? Santa Claus: I really don’t know. I have one elf that keeps up with the rest of them. There are a lot of elves. I think they are multiplying. Branson Globe: How is Mrs. Claus? Santa Claus: Mrs. Claus is enjoying the season. There is probably nobody that enjoys life more than her, and this time of year is her favorite time. She is baking and getting ready for Christmas, and smiling and grinning and wearing herself out. Branson Globe: Do you have a favorite treat? I know children like to leave you
PLUS:
Wreaths Across America – SEE PAGE 2A.
The foolishness of a baby – SEE PAGE 1B.
TERRYS DISCOUNT TICKETS
December 22, 2023 • Volume 4, Issue #51
SEE SANTA, PAGE 3A
And there’s more: Meet Mrs. Claus and Dancer on page 3! The Birth of Jesus
I
n those days Caesar Augustus is-
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‘Legendary’ holiday performances – SEE PAGE 1C
WEEKEND WEATHER:
Looking a little wet for Friday and Christmas Eve, but with mild temps, no snow. Highs will be in the upper 50s to near 60, and lows will be near 50.
sued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register. 4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. 8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the
Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” 15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying
in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. Luke 2:1 - 20 (NIV)
2A • DEC. 22, 2023
NEWS
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Missing woman may be in danger Branson Globe Staff Brielle Fansler, 18, was last seen on December 17, 2023 in Branson. She was wearing jeans, blue and white striped sweater, and was carrying a blue backpack. According to mo.gov, Fansler is 5’8”, 145 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes. Fansler may be travel-
ing with a white male, 21 years old with brown eyes and a short beard. He is approximately 5’10” and 170 pounds. If you have any information on the whereabouts of Fansler, please contact the Branosn Police Department at 417-334-3300, or dial 911.
Brielle Fansler
Taney County petition drive continues for tax assessment freeze Wreaths placed at Ozarks Memorial Park Cemetery (Photos by K.D. Michaels)
Veterans remembered in wreath laying ceremony as part of Wreaths Across America BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer Saturday marked a special day in Branson, with the observance of Wreaths Across America. The Branson Veterans Task Force held a touching
ceremony to Remember, Honor and Teach. The purpose of Wreaths Across America is to Remember the Fallen, Honor those who Serve, and Teach the Children the Value of Freedom. Following the remembrance ceremony, members of the Branson Ve t e r a n s Task Force
and volunteers placed wreaths on the gravesites of each veteran laid to rest in the Ozarks Memorial Park Cemetery, located on Highway 76 East. Wreaths Across America is a nationwide initiative that relies on wreath sponsors and volunteers. If you would like to help with the wreath placement event or sponsor one or more wreaths for next year’s Wreaths Across America, visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.
Submitted to Branson Globe A petition drive is making good progress toward placing a property tax assessment freeze question on the ballot in the next Taney County election. The assessment freeze for senior citizens was included in Senate Bill 190, signed by the Governor last summer, but must be implemented on a county-by-county basis. Taney County resident Josh Smith, who has been coordinating petition efforts, said support for the petition has been good, with signatures approaching the number needed, but he hopes to have additional signatures well in excess of the requirement, just in case any do not meet the verification process and also to demonstrate just how many people support the assess-
ment freeze, as many area seniors are already dealing with the effects of inflation on fixed incomes. Several Missouri counties have implemented the provision, most recently neighboring Christian County, although both the Christian County and Greene County versions are “watered down” with language that eliminates some public service retirees, including teachers, who receive a pension rather than Social Security. Careful reading of the bill as signed by Gov. Parson shows this was not the intent, as it refers to “eligibility” rather than whether senior citizens actually receive a payment. Teachers, for example, have often worked at jobs other than teaching and would qualify for Social Security, but their
benefit is reduced or eliminated due to their pension. Smith said bills have been filed in the state legislature to clarify the language and avoid what amounts to a penalty for choosing certain much-needed professions. Petitions are available during business hours at Jan’s Hair Shop, 827 W. Main St., Suite 103, in Branson, and Smith is working on placing petitions in locations farther east in Taney County to make it easier for those residents to sign one. Follow on the NextDoor app or call 417-334-3872 for more information. He also encourages citizens to reach out directly to county commissioners by phone or during public comment opportunities at commission meetings, to make their opinions known.
All i want for CHRISTMAS is Branson Municipal Judge, Motley, is
a subscription to the Branson Globe!
appointed to second State Committee Submitted to Branson Globe Taney County 46 Judicial Circuit Court Judge, Thomas Motley, has been appointed by the Missouri Supreme Court to the Municipal Judge Education Committee (MJEC), a committee that oversees compliance with Rule 18 of the Missouri Rules of Court which pertains to
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continued legal education for all municipal judges. “I am humbled to have been recommended by my peers to fill this vacancy on the Municipal Judge Education Committee. Upholding the highest level of ethics and integrity in the courts is of utmost importance,” said Judge Motley.
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MJEC’s mission is to assist members and provide training and guidance to newly appointed municipal judges. This is Judge Motley’s second appointment this year to a State Committee. The Missouri Supreme Court appointed him to the Missouri Court Automation (MCA) Committee in September. “I am thrilled at the chance to offer guidance and instruction to new Municipal Judges across the state and am honored to be so involved in municipal judge committees,” said Judge Motley. Judge Motley has been the Branson Municipal Judge since 2001 and is the owner of The Motley Law Firm in Branson. Judge Motley is a member of the American, Missouri and Taney County Bar Associations as well as a member and board member of the Missouri Municipal and Associate Circuit Judges Association. He is a graduate of College of the Ozarks and the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law.
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 do-
toy
and
nate new toys and nonperishable 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
Congressman
Burlison
Submitted to Branson Globe Congressman Eric Burlison (MO-07) introduced the Worker’s Choice Act which would allow workers who opt out of a union in a right-towork state to represent themselves before employers. “The Worker’s Choice Act
allows employees the ability to negotiate for themselves the working conditions they will accept and will free them from being subjected to the terms of a union negotiated contract” said Rep. Burlison. “Workers in right-to-work states are not truly allowed to
Continued from page 1A
milk and cookies, but is there a special treat that you love the most? Santa Claus: Really, that has been a problem for me, with Mrs. Claus being a really good cook. Then, on Christmas Eve, I work the
whole world in 24 hours. If every kid leaves me out a bunch of cookies and a glass of milk, I’m pretty full by the time I’m done, and some of the last chimneys are kind of tough getting down and back up. So, what I do is ask for each family’s special type
drive
given to 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
introduces
MEET ONE OF SANTA’S REINDEER – Direct from the North Pole, Mrs. Claus and Dancer, one of the famous reindeer in charge of pulling Santa’s sleigh are in Branson. Santa will be joining Mrs. Claus the rest of the week. Stop by and say hello, pet Dancer, and have your photo taken. Santa, Mrs Claus and Dancer are in town through Saturday, December 23, before they head back to the North Pole to get ready for Christmas. They will be eager to visit with everyone from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. now through Saturday. Santa, Mrs. Claus and Dancer have set up a temporary stable at 1810 West 76 Country Boulevard, between the former Branson Center Stage Grille location and Appletree Mall. (Photo by K.D. Michaels)
• SANTA
food
DEC. 22, 2023 • 3A
underway
Blessing 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
the
South Commercial 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,
Worker’s
Choice
negotiate their own working conditions when they are still forced to accept union-negotiated terms. By freeing workers from union contracts, we are allowing American workers to have control over their own destiny. Self-determination made our country great,
and this legislation supports the spirit of independence for the American worker.” The Worker’s Choice Act would give workers the option to either be a union member and accept working conditions negotiated by the union or negotiate for
of cookie—but only one cookie and a half a glass of milk. I love them all, but my very favorite cookies are chocolate chip! Branson Globe: Do you have big plans for after Christmas? Santa Claus: I’m going to kick back. A 24-hour shift is quite a long shift. Covering the whole earth kind of wears an old man out! Branson Globe: Tell us about your Naughty and Nice List. Santa Claus: I do have that list and I do check it. With all of the new tech-
nology, I can really keep up with everyone. Also, I’ve got some elves that are quite skilled with the computer and they keep me informed. Branson Globe: Final question, Santa: What do children need to do to be certain they are on the Nice List? Santa Claus: One of the things that I ask kids to do is to help their mom and dad, to obey them, to clean up their room, and to be nice to everybody, just like Jesus said: “Do unto your neighbor as you want them to do to you!”
Pizza Cook Wanted
through
Dec.
Branson) and the Branson Globe Office (2460 South Business 65, Hollister). The Toy and Food Drive runs through Friday, Dec. 22. The staff of The Branson Globe sincerely thanks you!
Act
compensation and working conditions independently and provide for their own representation in grievances and other dealings. This legislation also addresses the forced rider issue, wherein workers in right-towork states, despite not be-
22
of
2023
longing to a union, are still forced to accept the conditions a union has negotiated. The Worker’s Choice Act does not impose new restrictions on employers, workers, or unions and does not make any changes to collective bargaining.
Pets of the Week
Tri-Lakes Humane Society, Reeds Spring Call (417) 272-8113 or visit tri-lakeshumanesoc.org
ELVIRA. Female, Foxhound/Shepherd mix, DOB 6-21-2021.She was found as a stray with three other pups. Elvira loves to play in the yard but she is a bit timid with new people. Once she is comfortable, she is just the best! Does your family have room for this cutie?
Server Assistant Wanted
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4A • DEC. 22, 2023
NEWS
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Branson Globe readers share their favorite holiday traditions BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer The holiday season is a magical time. During the hustle and bustle of the season, many find it important to carve out time for favorite traditions. Branson Globe readers were eager to share with us their favorite Christmas traditions. “We didn’t have much growing up. We might have one gift apiece at Christmas,” said Lee. “But, each year our mother would hang up a pair of my dad’s socks—one each for my sister and I. We always got an orange, an apple, some nuts and Christmas candy. We loved those stockings. It is a beloved memory and my favorite Christmas tradition.” Chris also spoke of Christmas stockings, sharing, “A favorite tradition at our house was opening our stockings. It was usually the last thing we did. Our stockings always had lots
of fun surprises—candy and gum and Lifesavers and other treats and necessities like Chapstick and toothpaste and other treasures. Each item was wrapped, too. How did Santa have time to wrap all of those little gifts?” Sheri said, “Christmas always meant family. My aunt and uncle and cousins would come. My grandmother and grandfather, too. We always loved the food and the family time. It was the best holiday tradition!” Said Jana, “Growing up, my dad had this tradition of ordering Pizza Hut and we always had Coke in the Christmas glass bottles, watching Christmas movies and then that evening, we would drive around and look at all the houses with Christmas lights.” Abby recalls “Sitting on Grandpa’s lap in his big recliner by the crackling fire and cracking open nuts” among her favorite traditions.
Kyle noted, “Our family’s tradition was to have Christmas at home in the morning. We would open presents and eat breakfast—something simple like cinnamon rolls. Our grandparents would come over. Then, later, we would go to their house for Christmas dinner and a second Christmas.” “My favorite tradition I always did with my girls was cooking foil dinners (hobo dinner) in the fireplace, then making s’mores on Christmas Eve, then going to Midnight Mass,” explained Ray. “I always watch ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’” noted Donna. Said Catherine, “A small tidbit of deliciousness my family would do for Christmas—Grandmother owned a bakery in St. Louis. Grandma would bake anise cookies and fruitcakes soaked in wine and iced stollen. My Mom would make butter-
scotch drop Chinese noodle cookies for my dad.” Heather shared, “Growing up, Momma and Daddy always took us to see Christmas lights on Christmas Eve. Momma always made enough food for our family and dear friends. On Christmas Day we always sang Happy Birthday, Jesus, and had a birthday cake especially for our Lord and Savior, as well as many other desserts to choose from, including my favorite, chocolate meringue pie. I can taste it right now. Momma and Daddy always made sure we had everything we needed, and honestly, even our wants. Growing up and not realizing how blessed we truly were, but now that I have my own child, I see it really wasn’t the gifts under the tree but the love shown every day. I am so grateful for Momma and Daddy.” “Recently, I have come to appreciate the candlelight
Christmas Eve service at church. After all the shopping, parties, movies, music, decorating, family and friends, taking an hour to reflect on the deeper meaning of the holiday brings a peaceful calm and renewed joy for the remainder of the season,” said Karen. “Christmas Eve gift,” said Valerie Seitz. “We would always wake up and yell it or call each other at midnight and yell it, answer our phones with it, etc. Whoever said it first got to open a gift on Christmas Eve.” Said State Representative Brian Seitz, “When I was young I would always be chosen to read the scriptures dealing with Christ’s birth to the congregation at church during the Sunday morning service. Quite the honor, as traditionally only the pastor was seen in the pulpit. As I’ve gotten older, I enjoy Valerie decorating the house and spending time with family on Christmas
morning. Our traditions are simple but meaningful.” Former Branson Mayor Karen Best recalled, “My favorite Christmas tradition has always been spending time with family, celebrating the birth of Jesus. As a child, we would head to my grandparents’ house to be surrounded by aunts, uncles and cousins. As an adult, I am still blessed to spend Christmas with my parents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Even though my grandparents are celebrating with Jesus in heaven, I am reminded during the holiday season of the time spent with them around the Christmas tree, and their love of family and the reason for the season— the birth of Jesus.” The staff of the Branson Globe wishes each of our readers a very Merry Christmas. We hope you find peace and comfort and joy in your favorite traditions this holiday season.
Salvation Army Toy Store assists many area families
Toys await eager shoppers. (Special to Branson Globe) BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer The Salvation Army in Branson helped make the holidays brighter for many
area families. The annual Salvation Army Toy Shop, the distribution day for toys collected
through the organization’s Angel Tree Program, was held last Friday. “This year the Branson Salvation Army Toy Shop was able to provide 115 families with toys for their children,” explained Lisa Roberson, Corps Administrator and Pastor. “This represents 300 children, ages birth to 16. This is our largest distribution so far, and we hope to serve many
more next year. This year’s parents had a great time choosing toys for their kids and making new friends.” The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program begin in 1979 and has grown to be one of the largest Christmas Assistance programs providing toys and gifts to families. “The Toy Shop is not just about the toys,” Roberson noted. “It’s about building relationships. Our staff and
MERRY CHRISTMAS! SEE YOU IN JANUARY!
volunteers were able to pray with many of the parents about specific needs their family had. Many stated that they were so grateful to be able to attend this event and would not have been able to pay bills and buy toys this year. The Toy Shop provided the toys. We are here to serve the families in our community in the ways we can.” Roberson continued, “We are so thankful for the many
businesses and individuals who donated toys. We couldn’t have done it without you. We will continue to serve beyond Christmas through our weekly food pantry, Character Building program for children, weekly activities for adults and social services such as rental and utility assistance.” “We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,” added Roberson.
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NEWS
DEC. 22, 2023 • 5A
6A • DEC. 22, 2023
NEWS
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Christmas open house showcases Barnabas Prep to community BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer Branson’s Barnabas Prep, a special post-secondary school for special students, held their annual Christmas open house last week. The holiday event allowed visitors, family and friends to meet the staff and some of the students of Barnabas Prep. The event showcased some of the items that Barnabas Prep students make and sell such as candles, potpourri, ornaments,
etc., as well as showed off the beautifully decorated bed and breakfast on the campus of Barnabas Prep. Those in attendance enjoyed a coffee bar, holiday treats, and the opportunity for a photo with Saint Nick. “This is an invitation to the community to come out and learn what we’re all about,” said Barnabas Prep Senior Director Sandy Miller. “We want to show them who we
A beautifully decorated Christmas tree at the Bed and Breakfast located on the campus of Barnabas Prep (Photo by K.D. Michaels)
are and what we do.” Barnabas Prep has a current enrollment of 31 students, instructed by two teachers. “They teach job skills, life skills and social skills, because we all know that that is important to them,” explained Miller. “We teach health and fitness and basic skills, and do community integration. We have students that volunteer at Sight and Sound Theater, Legends Theater, Country Mart, and other businesses. We have students that volunteer at Silver Dollar City, but
we also have students who are employed at Silver Dollar City. Students go to Vintage Paris, the library, Riley’s Treasures, the Life Center at FBC. We run a complete collegiate schedule. The students are going on Christmas break for three weeks and then will be back for the spring semester. We have graduation for those who are completely done with the program in May.” While Barnabas Prep is traditionally a two-year program, the school’s special students learn at different rates.
Said Miller, “We do run a non-traditional program. We’ve got a couple students that have been here for seven years. Our students are wonderful. They are a great joy to be around.” Miller continued, “A lot of people shy away from people with disabilities, but there is no need to. Our students have more love than anyone can imagine. Our students are so capable. They just need a chance. Just like you and I, they want to be seen, they want to be heard, they want to be loved.”
Skaggs Foundation hits milestone in scholarship awards: More than $500,000 awarded Submitted to Branson Globe Since inception, Skaggs Foundation has been com-
mitted to investing in the lives of individuals in the healthcare industry. This
year they hit a milestone by awarding $514,950 in scholarships since 2002.
“The impact this has made throughout the years in not only the individuals receiving the scholarships but also the lives they have touched reaches farther than what we could imagine,” explains Grace Nash, who oversees Skaggs Foundation’s scholarship program. For the spring scholarships over 50% of the students are pursuing degrees in nursing.
“The need for healthcare workers continues to increase nationally,” said Judy Hampton, HR Business Partner for CoxHealth. “Nursing is a vital need and to see the interest in nursing careers in our recent scholarship applications is encouraging.” Spring 2024 scholarship recipients include Kloey Alms, Ian Avellanosa, Elizabeth Boldman, Heath Cole, Rafe Dillard, Ellie
Dunagan, Corrine Espinoza, Madison Froeschle, Lauren Garrison, Jared Gott, Susanne Hill, Elizabeth Hoffman, Jacob Holt, Collette Lavoi, Quinn Roberts, Katlyn Sanders, Elizabeth Sawyer, Maria Snowden, Autumn Walters, Amanda Wilcox and Madison Wood. To learn more about Skaggs Foundation’s scholarship program, visit SkaggsFoundation.org.
Branson Chorale performs at Titanic BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer The Branson Chorale, Branson’s community choir, was recently invited to the Titanic Museum Attraction to sing Christmas carols. The Branson Chorale, a 501(c)(3) organization is a nonprofit, non-auditioned volunteer choir with the purpose of sharing free music with the community. The Branson Chorale recently performed Christmas with the Chorale, their holiday extravaganza, at Victor Baptist Church. Entitled “Christmas around the World,” the performance gave the Branson Chorale the opportunity to perform with a live orchestra, a special treat for the vocalists. While at the Titanic this past weekend, the Branson Chorale shared beautiful holiday selections both outside near Titanic’s spectacular red Christmas tree and later inside on the famous Grand Staircase. Titanic Museum Attraction owners presented the nonprofit choir with a substantial donation to help with their annual expenses. Rehearsals for the Branson Chorale’s 2024 spring season begin Thursday, January 18, at 7 p.m. at Victor Baptist Church in Branson. (Special to Branson Globe)
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DEC. 22, 2023 • 7A
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8A • DEC. 22, 2023
Area
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Branson HS Gibson Tech students assist Sleep in Heavenly Peace organization Branson High School Gibson Tech students prepped materials to build 50 beds for the Table Rock Lake chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace. This organization is dedicated to building, assembling, (Special to Branson Globe) and delivering top-notch beds to children and families in need. Great Hollister Cookie Bake-Off The Hollister Food Service Staff recently participated in a holiday competition. Each b u i l d i n g ’s food service team came up with a cookie recipe to be judged by a special panel (Special to Branson Globe) of judges. The winning team was Hollister High School’s Shiela Picou, Darla Hulland, Lisa Dorllinger, and Casey Falconer. Dr. Sean Woods and Chef Dusty presented them with their winning plaque. Thank you to our special panel of judges: Mayor Lamar Patton, Alice Yeager (Hollister Chamber), Chris Carlson (Branson Tri-Lakes News), Renea Daniels (Board of Education), Dr. Brian Wilson and student’s Noah Richardson (HHS), Emma Jacinto (HMS), Travis Bettlach (HES) and George Youngblood (HECC). Hollister Elementary celebrates fifth grade students’ graduation from DARE Program Hollister Elementary School proudly announces the graduation of its fifth grade students from the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program. The ceremony, held in the Hollister High School auditorium, celebrated the commitment of 120 students who completed the program under the
SCHOOL NEWS
briefs:
Our
schools
guidance of Taney County Sheriff Deputy Chris Sims. Deputy Sims, who has spent the last ten weeks working with students through the DARE curriculum, emphasized the importance of making safe and responsible choices. “Through the DARE program, students gain knowledge about resisting peer pressure, understanding the risks associated with drug use, and developing positive decision-making skills,” Sims said. Hollister PK-5 Principal, Mr. Mark Waugh, expressed pride in the students’ accomplishments. “This graduation is not just about completing a course. It’s (Special to Branson Globe) about our young students being equipped with the tools to make healthy, informed choices as they grow,” Waugh shared. “We are grateful to Deputy Sims and the Taney County Sheriff’s Office for their dedication to our students and our community.” The ceremony began with prizes for students and a game of “Who Listened in DARE Class” in which students competed against teachers. Deputy Sims then told students, “Okay, it’s time to get serious.” He announced the top ten essays written by the students that had been selected by teachers. He then he revealed that Grady Stevens, Grace Hurst, and Robyn Johnson had been chosen as the top three by a panel of judges. Upon announcing that Robyn Johnson had written the winning essay, Sims asked Johnson to read her essay to the audience. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of program completion certificates for each of the fifth grade students, after which they loaded buses to head to SkateWorld for a graduation celebration. As part of the Hollister R-V School District’s commitment to the theme “Family at the Heart of Hollister,” this event marks a significant step in fostering a community where education and safety go hand in hand. The district looks forward to continuing its partnership with the Taney County Sheriff’s Office in providing essential programs like DARE to its students. Hollister Schools Foundation helps pay down student meal balances The Hollister Schools Foundation has once again stepped
are
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up to help pay down student meal debt. Foundation board chair, Meranda Trinkle, and treasurer, Denise Olmstead, presented Hollister R-V School District Superintendent, Dr. Brian Wilson, and Assistant Superintendent of Operations, Dr. Sean Woods, with a check for $1,250 to help pay down student meal debt. The money originated from a donation made to (Special to Branson Globe) the foundation for the use of paying student meal debt by the Masonic Home of Missouri. Dr. Wilson expressed gratitude to the Hollister Schools Foundation and the Masonic Home of Missouri for their generous donation of $1500. “This kind gesture contributes to paying down student meal debt during a season when families struggle a bit more to make ends meet,” he said. “We are appreciative of the ongoing support the Foundation and the Masonic Home. This donation is just one example of our strong community ties in Hollister and the dedication of everyone to the welfare of our students.” The Hollister Schools Foundation, originally established in 2009, is committed to breaking down the barriers to learning for students through partnerships and programs that serve the needs of the whole child. To learn more about the Hollister Schools Foundation and how you can get involved, visit www.hollister.k12.mo.us/foundation. Hollister Champions of Character Central Bank of Branson made their annual Champions of Character presentation to three Hollister Students. Those students who were selected this year are sixth grader Makenna Dimetroff; fifth grader Chad Solis; and fourth grader Lillianne Floer (Special to Branson Globe) (not pictured).
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Reeds Spring sports recap Boys Basketball: vs. Crane (W 57-51); vs. Springfield Catholic (L 69-40); vs. New School (L 46-31) Girls Basketball: vs. Crane (L 38-33); vs. Hillcrest (L 49-25) Girls Wrestling: Nixa Invitational: Blaiklee Cagle second at 170 lbs.; Lady Mustangs Christmas Clash: Kierstin Allen first at 145 lbs. and Cagle third at 170 lbs. Boys Wrestling: vs. Buffalo (W 46-21); vs. Osage (L 4836); vs. Cole Camp (W 60-12); vs. St. Genevieve (L 66-15; vs. St. James (W 51-24); vs. Moberly (L 72-12); vs. Kirksville (L 48-35); vs. Mid-Buchanan (L 39-36); vs. Chillicothe (W 48-36); vs. Cameron (L 63-15) Richardson named to all area team The Southwest Missouri Football Coaches Association recently released its selection for All-Area Team. Hollister senior, Noah Richardson was selected as 1st Team Defensive Lineman (Special to Branson Globe) and 2nd Team Tight End. Receiving Honorable Mention for Defensive Back and Kick Returner is sophomore, Bryson Whitman. Reeds Spring eSports player places fourth in state Three Reeds Spring Middle School eSports competitors traveled to State Technical College in Linn on December 9 for the Missouri Scholastic eSports Federation (MOSEF) Fall Brawl. (Special to Branson Globe) Brayden Higginbottom placed fourth in the state. Reeds Spring students Josh Thomas and Travis Gray also competed. Reeds Spring Primary School Learners of the Month Top row (left to right): Elias Hale, Lucas Pickerill, Ace Walker, Jackson Amacher, Caitie Jensen, Bentley Barber Bottom row (left to right): Jayce Wilson, Aliyah Bailey, Kolton Gouldy, Charlotte Mitcham, Daniel Alonso, Pat- (Special to Branson Globe) rick Woodall, Ryne White Reeds Spring robotics teams qualify for state Twenty-five teams from across the state traveled to Reeds Spring Middle School on December 9 for the third annu-
NEWS
al VEX IQ Robotics Tournament. These teams were made up of students in grades 4-8. They designed and programmed robots to perform a series of tasks that are judged on speed and accuracy. Four (Special to Branson Globe) teams from Reeds Spring earned awards and qualified for the state tournament, which will be held in St. Louis in March. The Reeds Spring team of Baya Clifford, Pearce Birlew, Payton Ditzer, and Bobby Brand earned the Middle School Excellence Award (Special to Branson Globe) and the Teamwork Challenge and were named Skills Champion. The team of Ava Schneider-Behn, Alexis Lanham, Katiri Gray, Kiersten Kincaid, and Jessie Cloud won the Elementary Excellence Award and the Innovate Award. The team of Taylor (Special to Branson Globe) Lanham, Will Carpenter, Hailey Barber, and Ethan McKinney won the Design Award, and the team of Nate Waters, Jameso Staugaard, Gracie Colon, and Nathan Dysart finished second. Rotary Club of Table Rock Lake provides dictionaries to students Every year, the Rotary Club of Table Rock Lake provides free dictionaries to all third graders in Stone County. “ We ’ r e proud to support Stone C o u n t y schools,” said Rotary Club member Ben Fisher. (Special to Branson Globe) “The excitement and appreciation shown by the students make this project worthwhile.” Rotary International members are proud to carry out their motto, “Service Above Self.”
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Mr. Thomas greets families and friends in attendance as the sixth grade band prepares for their very first concert. (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas)
Forsyth Music Department presents Christmas concert BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer The Forsyth Schools Performing Arts Center was filled with holiday spirit on Sunday afternoon, December 17, as the Forsyth Music Department presented their annual Christmas Concert to an appreciative group of families and friends. The Middle School Choir, directed by Mrs. Payton Burnett, opened the concert with “Let’s Get Ready for Christmas,” accompanied by Mrs. Hannah Gailey on the piano. Other selections by the group of fifth through eighth grade students included “Glow,” “Christmas Card,” and “I Feel Like Fa La La.” Following the choir, three instrumental music groups performed under the direction of Mr. Philip Thomas. The sixth grade beginning band received rousing applause for having made such great progress in just a few short months, performing “First Holiday
Concert” and “First Christmas March.” They were joined by the seventh/eighth grade intermediate band for “A Christmas Fanfare.” The Forsyth Panther high school band wrapped up the concert with medleys of Christmas favorites and the always-popular “Sleigh Ride.” Both Mrs. Burnett and Mr. Thomas thanked the community for their support of school music, including the recent opportunity for the choir to sing at the Christmas luncheon of the Forsyth Area Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Thomas said he is especially appreciative of the support for schedule changes he implemented upon coming to Forsyth, which will allow for growth as the band continues to rebound from the limitations of COVID-19. Following the concert, concert-goers were treated to cookies and hot cocoa.
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AREA OBITUARIES
DEATH NOTICES Barnes, Rosalene “Rosie” Critchley, Timothy Duke, Leroy A. Jr. Durr, Donna Jean Kage, Betsy Kalbfleisch, Larry Vernon
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Elks Lodge & Freedom of the Road Riders hold 34th annual toy distribution Submitted to Branson Globe Members of the Lake Taneycomo Elks Lodge 2597 and Freedom of Road Riders Local 15 held their 34th Annual Toy Distribution at the Elks Lodge on Saturday, Dec. 9. The distribution was for families in need in Taney County, and provided toys, hats, gloves, hygiene items and food baskets to over 120 families, helping to make Christmas brighter for around 350 children.
Registration forms were sent to the local schools and Head Start. This event was made possible through a grant from the Elks National Foundation and donations of toys and monetary donations from the toy run that was held in November with the Freedom of Road Riders Local 15. Local businesses donated items for the auction to help raise funds. The members of the Free-
dom of Road Riders are so amazing and generous with their time and donations, making this event a reality every year. We also thank Dollar General in Kirbyville and the Forsyth Chamber of Commerce for allowing us to put out donation boxes, The Branson Sports Club who donated basketballs, Saints City Bar & Grill for hosting a toy and coat drive, and community members who
donated items. The Toy Run and Toy Distribution are the largest and most popular events for our Elks Lodge. They are examples of how our members embody our motto: “Elks Care/Elks Share. For information about the Elks Lodge or our events, please email us at BPOE2597@gmail.com or contact Terri Williams, 417-230-6200.
Weekend Weather
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR 2024 SUMER CAMPS AT MISSOURI S&T Missouri University of Science and Technology opened registration for the 2024 summer camp season with even more camp options for elementary, middle school and high school students. Go to https://summercamps.mst.edu/ for each camp’s dates, costs and application requirements, to register, and to receive information about scholarships.
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ROTARY CLUB OF TABLE ROCK LAKE AWARDS GRANTS – Five nonprofits can continue their great work in the community thanks to grants from the Rotary Club of Table Rock Lake. They recently awarded $1,000 each to the Stone County Shoe Ministry, Table Rock Art Guild, Christian Action Ministries, Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks, and Pregnancy Life Line. The nonprofits had to apply for the grants and give a presentation explaining how the money would be used. The Rotary Club raised the money through its annual 5k race held at the Port of Kimberling. (Special to Branson Globe)
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How do I...? A guide to living in the Tri-Lakes Register to vote The easiest way to register to vote in the state of Missouri is to use the following link: https://www.sos.mo.gov/ elections/goVoteMissouri/ register. You can update your name and address, or register to vote for the first time. In many locations, you may also register to vote when you renew your driver’s license. Get a driver’s license • In Branson and Hollister, go to Branson License Bureau, 1447 Hwy. 248, Branson; phone 417-9428054. • In Forsyth, go to 210 Shadowrock Dr., Forsyth; phone 417-546-3085. • In Reeds Spring and Branson West, go to 11016 Hwy. 76, Reeds Spring; phone 417-272-8815. • In Crane, 103 South Street, Crane, 417-723-8552. The driver examination office is at 120 N. Commerce St., Crane; phone 417942-8029. Register my vehicle Complete information on Missouri residents’ vehicle registration titling is available at https://dor.mo.gov/ motor-vehicle/titling-registration/ Reach my legislators Find your legislators by entering a valid Missouri mailing address and using the legislator lookup on this site, https://www.senate. mo.gov/legislookup/ In the Branson TriLakes, we are served by: • Senator Josh Hawley (Hawley.senate.gov) • Senator Eric Schmitt (Schmitt.senate.gov) • House Representative for District 7, Eric Burlison (burlison.house.gov). At the state level, we are represented by: • Senator Karla Eslinger (senate.mo.gov/senators/ member/33), • House Representative Brian Seitz, District 156 (brian.seitz@house.mo.gov) • House Representative Travis Smith, District 155 (travis.smith@house.
mo.gov) • House Representativve Brad Hudson, District 138 (brad.hudson@house. mo.gov) Reach my alderman Branson aldermen may be contacted through the City’s Administration Office, 110 West Maddux Street, Suite 210, Branson, MO 65616 or by telephone at 417-3343345. Current Branson Aldermen are: • Marshall Howden, Ward 1 • Clay Cooper, Ward 1 • Chuck Rodriguez, Ward 2 • Cody Fenton, Ward 2 • Ralph LeBlanc, Ward 3 • Ruth Denham, Ward 3. In Hollister, aldermen are: • David Honey, Ward 1 (dhoney@hollistermo. gov) • Don Jones, Ward 1 (djones@hollistermo.gov) • Phil Carman, Ward 2 (pcarman@hollistermo. gov) • Jeff Long, Ward 2 (jlong@ hollistermo.gov) In Forsyth, your aldermen are: • Scott Novak, Ward 1 • Mark Moore, Ward 1 • Dennis Winzenried, Ward 2 • Dustin Krob, Ward 2. Contact the City of Forsyth at 417-546-4763. Aldermen in Rockaway Beach are: • Jane Peck, Ward 1 (jane@ rockawaybeach-mo.org) • Kyle Hinkle, Ward 1 (kyle@rockawaybeach-mo.org) • Russell Anderson, Ward 2 (russell@rockawaybeach-mo.org) • Richard Murray, Ward 2 (hwymbc@yahoo.com). In Branson West, your aldermen are: • Gary Brant, Ward 1 • Michael Brown, Ward 1 • Penny Lonsway, Ward 2 • Carrie Rogers, Ward 2. Contact the city at 417272-8669. Kimberling City aldermen include: • Christian Martin, Ward 1 • Virgil Moore, Ward 1 • Tim Weyers, Ward 2 • Philip Korem, Ward 2.
Contact the city at (417) 739-4903. Register my child for school • Branson Public Schools: Begin registration by bringing required documentation to building your student will be attending. For grades K-6, check the Attendance Zone for information about attending school building, using this link: https://www.branson. k12.mo.us/parents/enrollment, clicking on New Student Enrollment Page, and to Attendance Zones. Please contact your school with questions or additional information at 417-334-6541. Main office is at 1756 Bee Creek Road, Branson. • Hollister R-V School District: Families new to Hollister should visit their building office to set up their parent portal and begin the enrollment process. For help with enrollment, contact your building office. HECC office (PK-1): 417-2434015; HES office (2-5): 417-243-4025; HMS office (6-8): 417-243-4035; HHS office (9-12): 417243-4045. • Reeds Spring School District: Register at the building your child will attend or fill out the online registration by contacting your child’s school office for more information. Primary School: PS-1st grade, 417-272-3241; Elementary: Gr. 2-4, 417272-1735; Intermediate: Gr. 5-6, 417-272-8250; MS: Gr. 7-8, 417-2728245; HS: Gr. 9-12, 417-272-8171; Gibson Technical Center: 417272-3271. Recycle Taney County Recycle: Phone 417-546-7226 for
DEC. 22, 2023 •11A
Storm Surges hours and what we accept. Email recycle@taneycountymo.gov for information; website: taneycounty.org, or Facebook: https://www. facebook.com/TaneyCountyRecycle/ Get help with necessities • Salvation Army Branson, 1114 Stanley Boulevard, 417-339-4434. • Christian Action Ministries (CAM), 417-3341157. • Elevate Branson, 310 Gretna Rd; website, https://elevatebranson. org; email: Info@ElevateBranson.org. Phone: 417-335-9915. Find/adopt a pet • Branson Humane Society, 2837 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway, Branson. To contact: 417-337-7387; Facebook w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / ShepherdofTheHillsHumaneSociety; or email at sohhs417@gmail.com. Information is on their website, http://www. bransonhumanesociety. com • Come look at the animals for adoption at Taney County Animal Control, 255 Critter Trail, Hollister. Hours: Mon.Sat. noon – 4 p.m. Closed Sundays and holidays. Phone 417-332-0172. Email: tcac255@gmail. com; website: taneycounty.org. • Tri-Lakes Humane Society, 102 Washboard Hollow Rd., Reeds Spring; phone 417-272-8113, website: https://www. tri-lakeshumanesoc.org/; Facebook, https://www. facebook.com/trilakeshumane/ Find a healthcare provider • CoxHealth Center, 890 State Hwy. 248, Branson, 417-335-2299. More information at coxhealth.com
By Stephanie Callahan, Owner/Lightspeed Electrical Regardless of how many devices and electrical codes we have to manage this thing we know as electricity, it is still a wild force of nature. Every year, dozens of people experience lightning surge damage to their equipment and appliances. Although we cannot prevent lightning from occurring, we can prevent surge damage.
Over the last 20 years or so, Whole House Surge Protectors have become more well known. I am not talking about the power strip style surge protection…because how much protection could a $20 power strip really provide anyway? Whole House Surge Protection gets wired into the electrical panel before power is distributed to the circuits and appliances in your home. A lightning surge happens quickly, and it rarely damages the actual wiring, because it passes through fast and not as a continuous load. The damage is almost always caused to the appliance on the end of
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OPINION / LIFESTYLES / YOUR MONEY • DEC. 22, 2023 • SECTION B
Breakfast at Tiffany’s: The foolishness of a baby
BY TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer
B
ut God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the
weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.” 1 Corinthians 1:27 People often look to Google to find the answers to life’s questions. Some point to “the universe.” Others think that the deepest knowledge is hidden within themselves. People sacrifice their families and morals on the altar of power and prestige. But God isn’t impressed with any of those things. In fact, he chose
to make all of his wisdom known to humanity through a baby, born of a virgin, who came to earth to die a brutal death on a Roman cross. Almost seems crazy when weighed by the world’s standards, doesn’t it? The greatest minds with all the knowledge of the world cannot understand this gift if they do not believe, yet God has made it understandable even to little children. It is only through the illumina-
tion of the Holy Spirit that anyone can understand the wisdom of God, which negates any grounds for human boasting. This is a truth to rest in for the believer because, like the Corinthians, we don’t have to be wise men after the flesh, nor mighty, nor noble, to abound in the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:26). Human wisdom, power, and strength pale in comparison to God’s. Those who have
a relationship with God are heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ, sharing not only in his suffering, but in his glory (Romans 8:17). When we come to fully grasp the wisdom of God through Christ Jesus, we cannot keep it a secret! Like Paul, we, too, can say, “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth” (Romans 1:16). When we
know and experience that power of God through salvation, we will want others who are still prisoners to the ways of the world to experience the wisdom of God that transcends all human understanding. And when we understand that it is a power not of ourselves, we can trust the work of Christ to be complete in those who believe our message. That powerful work of Christ SEE TIFFANY’S, PAGE 3B
pinion
2B • DEC. 22, 2023
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer
A
s I put pencil to notebook (yes, I’m lowtech) during my morning devotions, I thought a lot about my dad, who would have celebrated his 98th birthday today, December 18. And in a coincidental—or not—reminder, my devotional passages included several reminders about the importance of being willing to serve.
JANET STEINKAMP Editor editor@bransonglobe.com GARY J. GROMAN Independent Journalist KIM CHAPPELL Ad Designer gabbydor210@gmail.com PATTY DOERPINGHAUS Stone Co. Account Rep. (530) 739-5560 pattyd.ads@gmail.com MARK FEDER Taney Co. Account Rep. (805) 320-3746 shotgunart@yahoo.com
BY JOSHUA HESTON, StateoftheOzarks.net Online Magazine
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ed brake lights brighten worn tombstones, contrasting the greenish tinge from a handful of street lamps. Most small Ozarks towns are not particularly well-lit and I like it that way. Broad, brightly lit avenues feel strange, too modern, too laden with expectancy. Wind rustles the dry foxtail and orchard grass at the edges of the small cemetery, now a haunt of neighborhood cats and nut-gathering squirrels. Cemeteries are strange places to be at dusk, especially during the holidays, but such is — at times
TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer tiffanykgravett@gmail.com KAREN HALFPOP Digital/Production Mgr. production@bransonglobe. com
LINDA PAGE Entertainment Writer lpage65@centurytel.net CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer cjthomas74@yahoo.com www.cynthiajthomas.com DARYL WEATHER Weather Forecaster bransonwx@gmail.com
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gave financially to nonprofits and ministries. I think that generation, regardless of their personal religious affiliation, were culturally aware of Jesus’ words in Mark 10:43. Seeing the grumbling among his disciples following James’ and John’s misguided request to sit next to Jesus in His kingdom, Jesus explained to the group again that His Kingdom wasn’t like any earthly kingdoms they were familiar with, telling them, “. . . it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant.” The disciples clearly had some learning still to do, but they caught on as they witnessed Jesus’ death and
resurrection, and they went on to serve the early Church at great personal cost. The Bible tells of other people who realized that their job was to be faithful and serve, and leave the timing and outcome up to God. Several Old Testament prophets faithfully delivered God’s message, even when it wasn’t popular, including the foretelling of Jesus as Messiah. As Christmas approaches, I think about Zechariah, who served faithfully as a priest while he and his wife, Elizabeth, saw their hopes for a child dwindle—but that child came at just the right time to point people to Jesus. Simeon and Anna served faithfully in the tem-
ple long before they saw the Baby Jesus and realized He was the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies. And of course, there’s the beautiful example of Mary, who was found faithful and worthy to be the mother of Jesus, and Joseph, who served his family well and obeyed God’s commands. The command to serve applies to all of us, and it reminds us that God values all those who serve, including our military and first responders but also restaurant staff, parking attendants, nurses and CNAs, and so many more. I pray I will take opportunities to bless them even as I look for ways to serve my own family, friends and community.
— my life these days. I am looking for a Baldknobber. Bull Creek Dave died horribly at the end of a rope, strung up next to his teenage son on a courthouse square just one town over, both paying a personal price for honor culture and good deeds gone horribly wrong. May 10, 1889, was a long time ago, but Bull Creek Dave’s grave is still honored. A remembrance marker marks the space, simply saying, “Hero.” Ozarks heroes are complicated which is just as it should be. The moon is dark tonight and darkening. The wind is suddenly brisk from the South, strangely warm. “So, this is December,” I ask myself. “This is Christmas?” Hallmark images of the season seem distant, superficial. Only a black wind answers as I drive north. Candle light dances just beyond
my vision. The smell of autumn leaves seems heavy and it is as though wordless voices murmur in the ether. I drive these roads weekly. In broad daylight, the rolling hills and valleys of the Finley River are peaceful, even run-of-the-mill. Here, a few horses, there, the house with pretty decorative stars. I hurry to church on Sunday, thoughts on the service ahead. Afterwards, a drive to a family restaurant. There are hugs and laughter, discussion of the sermon, plans for the week ahead. These are bright-sky thoughts, full of sweeping hope and mounting expectation. Tonight, the brightness has died, the sky dark despite a glimmer of starlight. Roadsides turn weird, haunted. I cross the river in this dark, blue bottle tree on the right glinting in my headlights. The truck win-
dows are down partway, spilling in warm, moist air. So many thoughts, so many needs, but all seem far away. In some ways, every place is a bit haunted with memories and sometimes something more. But here, on this old route tonight, the ghosts seem more real than anything else. I pull into church short minutes later. Orange light casts a circle in the yard, a circle edged in darkness-burnished grass and oak. The same wind, damp and black, plays in that grass and rustles the brown oak leaves still on the trees. Silhouettes stand sentinel. A congregation of Tennessee Baptists worshipped in this hollow a good 15 years before Bull Creek Dave’s feet dragged beneath the hangman’s gallows across the river to the south. Some church members may have
witnessed his death. What is normally a place of brightness and morning light is instead foreign tonight, a strange burnt-edged eeriness in the breeze. The shadows seem to move. The world was different back then, but not by much. We poke and prod at our own risk, erasing history — or so we think. Modernism is arrogance in thinly wrapped plastic as the world (we are told) hurtles toward the social expectation of globalism. Disregarding our thin optimism, the blood of the past calls from the soil. The Ozarks were settled by those who understood honor culture, the fight and strength of family, of blood and word stronger than any era’s law and order. In one form or another, our ghosts still walk, especially here, especially now, in this warm and haunted Christmas dark.
MindFlow: The art to heart conversation
JOHN FULLERTON Area Historian
K.D. MICHAELS Staff Writer kdmichaelsbranson1@ gmail.com
The Greatest Generation exemplified willingness to serve. As my friend “Mac” McAllister pointed out during a Pearl Harbor Remembrance Ceremony, patriotism was at a level only rarely seen in the U.S. as Americans, like my dad, signed up to serve their country, defending rights and freedoms and eradicating evil dictatorships; other Americans served at needed jobs on the home front and willingly endured rationing because they believed in the cause. Many of the Greatest Generation continued their attitude of service even after World War II and throughout their lives. My dad was one of those, as he worked hard to provide for our family, served at his church, and
Been thinkin’ about...A warm and haunted Christmas dark
C
ROB DOHERTY Publisher (504) 583-8907 robd@bransonglobe.com
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Reflections: Willing to serve
First Amendment to the United States Constitution
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.
OPINION
BY DANIEL KOREN, is a local business owner and motivational speaker.
W
hat do others feel when they see you? You can take practical steps to trigger good feelings in others. This isn’t manipulation. It’s about being a decent human. ¬Perhaps you know only two conversation modes: “full vent” where you say everything you are feeling regardless of how it will make others feel, and “go silent” where you marinade your soul in your own emotions rather than dealing with the people and situations that are driving you insane. Neither is a healthy way of managing yourself or your relationships. There must be a better way. Living in your feelings is not the right way to help others feel good around you. Reflex emotions that
are triggered by outside influences only create a chain reaction of fear, irritation and resistance in others. If you walk into a room by slamming the door and slapping the desk with your notebook, people immediately bristle. When we live on an emotional edge, we are just hoping that someone else will draw us out into a healthy emotional state. Very few people are invested enough in your feelings to do that heavy lifting for you. Your spouse, children and subordinates at work might do that work for you for a while but eventually they will burn out because you are draining them of the emotional health they need to get through their own life. John Maxwell learned a discipline that triggered joy in most people he met. He finds something uplifting to say in the first 30-seconds of their conversation. How would that change every connection you make with people each day? When you answer the phone, don’t talk about the problem you are calling them about; first talk about
the pictures you just saw of their new grandbaby or the big trout they caught over the weekend. Tell them about the positive thing you heard someone else say about them recently. Say life-giving things and watch how enjoyable the world around you becomes. In his book “25 Ways to Win with People,” you may also learn Maxwell’s art of letting people know you need them. This is different than being a draining, needy person. This is letting people know their value and when they have made a significant contribution, simply say so. Everyone wants to be valued and know their worth. Want to build someone up? Compliment them in front of other people. Want to build them up further? Brag on them behind their back. Eventually what you say will get back to them, and they’ll feel great about themselves and think better of you, too. Timing is key. I had to have a conversation with one of my teens one night (I’ve had five teens so far). I dreaded the conversation
because I saw a fight coming on. Before initiating the conversation, I took some time to pray and reflect on possible scenarios that could result from this conversation. One thing I had to consider was how my child would feel while we talked. She would be afraid of what privileges she might lose. I identified those worries immediately. I also knew that once I opened up this topic, my wife might be concerned about the ramifications of this talk, and I did not want her worried or traumatized either. I began first managing my wife’s emotions by addressing her expected concerns. We came to a quick agreement on the best path forward. Then I spoke to my daughter. In the same sentence of “We need to talk about…” I also said, “And I want you to not worry because the end result of this conversation will not be…” and I named both things I knew she would be afraid of. I’m amazed at how well I was heard by both people involved. They both agreed
Merry Christmas!
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and supported the change of direction we had to take. Similar conversations in the past triggered push back that forced me to push harder and/or spend more time explaining and doing damage control. In such situations, their internal conversation was louder than the one I was trying to have. But this time, by being careful about how they felt, the conversation objectively dealt with the real issue and ended with everyone in harmony. Maybe you get this stuff naturally. Personally, I think I’ve often just had conversations with people and didn’t care how they felt. They might have had to paddle through a flood of emotions for days afterwards. Occasionally, that is unavoidable, but you and I usually have the opportunity to help others manage their emotions. What are some ways you will start changing the emotional dynamics of people in your community this week? How will you uplift your family and friends tonight and tomorrow? Go have an art to heart conversation!
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OPINION
DEC. 22, 2023 • 3B
Train Up a Child: A Christmas dinner to remember
BY PAT LAMB Columnist
I
remember when our children were small how I would work so hard in the kitchen to create a “picture book” Christmas dinner. I admit there were times when I harbored a little resentment because it seemed like the rest of the family was off in the fami-
ly room or someplace else having fun while I was doing all the work! Nevertheless, I wanted that perfect Christmas dinner, so I kept going. By the time it was on the table, I was usually so tired that I hated to think of all the dishes that needed to be cleaned after everyone finished enjoying the food. There is a better way! It was not until the children were grown with children of their own that I learned of it. It is too bad I didn’t think of it before, but like so many others, I was so steeped in a not-so-good tradition that I didn’t think outside the box.
When our oldest grandson was in the eighth grade, I received a call from him. “Nana”, he said, “would you email me your punch recipe?” Our daughter had planned their Christmas dinner and each person had chosen what he or she could do. Dylan had chosen to make the punch. LeAndra had chosen to make the green bean casserole. (LeAndra was in the sixth grade.) I later received a call from my daughter asking me to make my “really good dressing” for the turkey. Her dad was asked later to cook the turkey. Her husband made a pumpkin roll
and a pumpkin pie. I made a couple of other pies. Our daughter took care of the bread, potatoes, seeing that the table was set properly, and other small chores. We all enjoyed a wonderful Christmas dinner at her house and no one person was overworked. After the meal, the children did the dishes. The afternoon was spent playing board games together. There are many benefits to planning family get-togethers this way. Besides the fact that no one person feels martyred, the children are feeling important for the contributions they are making. They are
learning to cook and plan. Each person involved is learning teamwork. Self-evaluation is taking place as each decides what he or she can or can’t do. Family tradition is being formed A key to making this method work is to accept the contributions of each person without negative criticism. If the green bean casserole isn’t just perfect, who cares? It is more important to praise the child for effort made than to eat a perfect casserole. The praise will last far longer than the casserole! Another point to remember is to fit the task to the capabil-
ity of the person. Even a toddler can carry silver to the table or lay napkins on the table. It is important that every person possible contribute to the dinner. As we enjoy our Christmas dinner this year, let us each give thanks for the food and the people, (not the person), who prepared it. It is so good that we have such a bountiful supply of food available to us and the freedom to enjoy the celebration of our holidays. Let us remember our troops who are fighting to preserve that freedom. Most of all, let us be grateful for the greatest gift, Jesus, our Savior!
Are you guilty of cherry picking?
BY EVANGELIST TIM KIDWELL, Branson Church of Christ
A
ccording to the Farlex online dictionary, the definition of “cherry-pick” is: “to choose or take the best or most profitable of (a number of things), especially for one’s own benefit or gain.” Concerning the discussion of this writing, this definition would apply to the act of selecting certain verses from the Bible in order to give credence to a particular belief or viewpoint, without regard to
• TIFFANY’S
Continued from page 1B
does not allow for human boasting because it has nothing to do with human power, wisdom, or
scriptural context, proper application, or interpretation without contradiction of other passages which deal with the same subject. Proof texting, a form of cherry picking, can easily lead to wrong conclusions regarding what is the truth of God. Those who proof text are more concerned with proving what they have already decided is correct than they are with making sure they are using a passage honestly. God condemns “cherry-picking” in this sense. In fact, the blood of lost souls will be upon those who fail to teach the “whole counsel” of the Bible (Acts 20:26-27). Based upon the preceding scripture reference, it is possible for a person to never teach error,
and yet, be guilty of violating this command. How so? By failing to teach all of God’s word. “Adding to” or, “taking away” from God’s word is a very serious matter (Rev. 22:18). Sometimes when discussing a passage of scripture one side may choose to defend their position by stating, “That’s just your interpretation.” And they are correct. It is impossible to apply instruction unless interpretation first occurs. But all concerned parties must also agree that when a discrepancy concerning a Bible passage occurs, then, one or all interpretations are incorrect. All interpretations can be wrong, but, all cannot be right. Between two differing thoughts at least one interpretation is
erroneous. So how may it be known that a passage from the Bible has been interpreted correctly? First: Those who believe that the Bible is the inerrant word of God also accept that there are no mistakes/ contradictions in His holy book. There are those who claim that man, through the years have made changes, and have made it impossible for us to know what God originally had intended through inspiration. Those people obviously do not believe in an all-powerful God, who can, and did, make sure His word would endure forever (Matthew 24:35). Try as they may, unexplainable accusations of inaccuracies within different versions of the Bible
do not exist. Second: God is not the author of confusion (1 Cor. 14:33). Jesus said that we could know the truth that sets us free from sin (John 8:32). He expects us to be able to understand everything that is necessary for us to know in order to live in a way that is pleasing to Him (2 Tim. 3:16-17). God has given us instruction for all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Peter1:3). Knowing the truth eliminates “urgings or feelings.” There is no place for “wondering or guessing,” or “personal beliefs.” God means what He says and expects everyone to understand/interpret the truth that sets us free from sin the same way (1 Cor. 1:10). Third: Concerning in-
terpretation; if my understanding of one passage contradicts the teaching of that same subject in another passage, then, logic and honesty demand that I concede my misunderstanding of one or both passages. Any interpretation needs to consider all other related parts of the Bible. While I can never do less than what one scripture teaches, God may require more because of what He says elsewhere concerning the same subject. Also, evidence such as the period the passage was written, who wrote it, where and to whom the passage was written, should be given consideration in order to reach a correct understanding of what is actually being taught.
strength. “But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God us made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption” (1 Cor 1:30).
“For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God” (1 Cor 1:18). When I
am worried, the cross is my assurance. When I am doubting, the cross points the way. When I am sick, his stripes are my healing. When I sin,
his blood covers me. When I feel inadequate, the cross is enough. The list of things that the cross accomplished for all who believe is nev-
er-ending. In the cross we have all we need. May we cling to the old rugged cross, even when the world thinks it foolish.
4B • DEC. 22, 2023
LIFESTYLES
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13 ways to reduce holiday stress
BY DR. JOHN DELONY, mental health expert, and relationships and emotional wellness teacher with Ramsey Solutions.
W
hether you’re a diehard Christmas fan or you just want to make it through another painstaking family dinner, the holiday season can have some stressful moments. Between trying not to bust the budget on Christmas shopping, listening to Uncle Bobby’s conspiracy theories again, and navigating everyone else’s holiday expectations, the holidays can spin up our anxiety alarms. This time of year can be frantic—and downright frustrating. So how do we reduce holiday stress or prevent it before it happens? What Is Holiday Stress? The extra expenses. Angry in-laws. Long hours at the office. Exhausted and sugared-up kids. Cold weather and seasonal darkness. Final exams, sporting events and recitals. Absent romantic partners. Profound loneliness . . . Individually, we can handle each of these stressors as they come. But during the holidays, everything hits at once. Throw in a midterm election season and Aunt Suzie’s surprise visit, and our fight-or-flight stress response systems are ringing off the hook. In most cases, stress is normal and good. It’s when it becomes overwhelming, heavy and all-at-once that we lose perspective. When we experience stress, our muscles tighten, our heart
rates spike, and our bodies flood with hormones, like cortisol and adrenaline. We scan our surroundings for danger over a platter of steaming turkey and stuffing. We’re trying to not die—with Bing Crosby crooning in the background. Holiday stress is the worst. But there are things we can do about it. This season, give yourself and others some grace—a lot of it. Make no mistake: Stressful things will happen. But the exciting thing is we get to choose how to respond to them. 1. Clearly picture the Christmas you want to have. Set expectations for yourself and others by painting a picture of what you want your Christmas to look like. Be crystal clear. Here are some things to think about before the holidays start: • Who’s sitting around the table at mealtime? • What are we eating? • What are we talking about—or not talking about? • How am I connecting with my friends and family? • Which Christmas movies are we watching? • What presents are we giving—or not giving—each other? Share your picture with your loved ones so they can understand what you’re imagining. Ask them to paint a picture of what they want too so you can be on the same page. 2. Set boundaries. Over the holidays, it might seem like your mom, father-in-law or second cousin call the shots. Wrong. You choose. You get to decide where you go, how long you stay there, who you invite into your home, and how much money you’ll spend.
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It’s important to set those boundaries before you kick off the Christmas festivities. Before you commit to anything, decide what your limits are for: • Traveling: Will you drive or fly? How long will you visit? • Hosting guests: Will they stay for three days? What about two weeks? Can the dog come too? • Spending: How much money are you budgeting for presents this year? How many gifts should each kid get? • Food: What will you eat? How many cookies are too many? • Conflict: How will you handle a disagreement if one breaks out? By the way . . . don’t drive or fly thousands of miles to a place that’s inhospitable or threatening. You can say no. But once you decide and commit to seeing family, do it with a good attitude. Find joy in the hard moments. If you choose to go, you’re also choosing to be a good sport instead of a grinch. This is what it means to be mature. 3. Avoid family conflict. Even the best families can drive you nuts. So, this year, before you even pack your bags, think about conflicts that might pop up with family. If your dad has a pattern of talking bad about a particular group of people, don’t be surprised when he starts one of his rants. You can’t change him—but you can decide how you respond. You can ask someone to stop. It’s possible to be direct and still be kind. You can get up and leave. Sometimes walking away to take a breath is the best thing you can do. Create a plan of action. Decide ahead of time how you’ll respond if tensions
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start to build. Communicate your plan ahead of time. Make it clear you don’t want to talk about politics or your little brother’s addiction. If someone pushes back on your boundaries, you can leave! Pay attention to when you feel uncomfortable, awkward, unsafe, embarrassed or trapped. If someone is drunk, angry, using foul language, or telling repulsive jokes, you get to decide if and when you walk away. 4. Focus on what you can control. There are only two things on planet Earth you can control: your thoughts and your actions. You can’t control what your parents say around the dinner table. You can’t control your kids’ attitudes. If you feel stressed this Christmas, write down the things that are in your control. Take ownership of these things—like buying groceries, getting in a walk, or wrapping presents. Everything else that’s not in your control, like the weather or other people’s reactions to overbaked potatoes, can be let go. There’s nothing you can do about them, so set those expectations down by focusing on your own responsibilities. 5. Know your role in the situation. If you’re going to your girlfriend’s house for Christmas and you have to sleep on the uncomfortable couch and eat her family’s weird food, remember: The world doesn’t revolve around you. It’s not your house. Your role is to support your partner, so embrace it. You chose to go, so decide to make hilarious memories instead of whining about the accommodations. And if you’re the one inviting your significant other
to family dinner, be a gracious host or hostess. This includes paying attention to (and accommodating) food allergies or dining preferences. Remember that your guest is missing out on their traditions. They might be sad they’re missing out on time with their family, so do the best you can to be supportive. 6. Say no. I love Christmas as much as the next person, but no matter who you are, it’s absurd to try to attend a million white elephant parties, ornament exchanges and cookie-decorating parties. Be honest about what you can handle and say no when it’s too much. Instead of squeezing in five Christmas parties, pick one or two. Prioritize your family’s time and only commit to what you want to do. Focus on quality, not quantity. 7. Take a social media break. There’s an overwhelming amount of data, nonsense and news in our country right now. Not only is it all over our TVs, but it also floods our social media feeds. It’s making us insane. And those perfectly curated Instagram and Pinterest Christmas feeds will only lead to comparison and keeping up with the Joneses. Instead, spend more time looking into your kids’ eyes than staring at screens. Hold hands, not video game controllers. Throw a football or kick a soccer ball—in real life. Choose human connection, joy and laughter over like buttons and retweets. Each one of your electronic devices comes with an off button. Use it. 8. Make a Christmas budget. Do it. Right now. A budget creates boundaries for your wallet (or bank account). Budgeting
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helps reduce stress because it gives you a plan for your money. Make a zero-based budget every month before the month begins. You decide where every single dollar in your bank account goes—especially during the holidays. Budgeting for Christmas helps you avoid impulse purchases and keeps you from spending too much on white elephant gifts. So, make a budget and stick to it. You’ll be glad you did. 9. Don’t overdo the sugar. When it comes to the holidays, too much spiked eggnog or too many of Mom’s famous sugar cookies can be a recipe for disaster. Yeah— it all tastes like an Uber Eats delivery straight from Mrs. Claus’ kitchen. But too much sugar messes up your natural hormone responses, blood sugar, insulin levels, and your brain’s neurotransmitters (the body’s chemical messengers). Mix that with a lack of sleep from caffeine and alcohol, plus a packed schedule, and you’ve got a perfect storm for an anxiety rush. Limit how much sugar you eat and feed your body nutritious food as much as possible. 10. Get plenty of sleep and movement. Anxiety affects at least 40 million people in the U.S.1 And one of the most powerful tools you have to reduce anxiety is sleep. So, instead of staying up late for the third night in a row bingeing Hallmark movies, prioritize your sleep. It’ll keep your stress and anxiety at bay and help your immune system stay healthy. And don’t forget to get outside and move. I don’t care how cold it is—put on some extra layers and just do it (or at least get into SEE STRESS, PAGE 6B
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Auctioneers’ Note: It is an honor to be conducting this auction for Mr. & Mrs. LaPlant. Wow! There are several amazing, rare, very rare antiques, pedal vehicles, toys, gas, oil and signage memorabilia, and several other rare and hard to find antiques. Don’t forget outstanding rare furniture as well. If you are a true blue collector, you do not want to miss this auction. What a way to end the year: The best antique auction we have done all year! Bring a friend and your camera for this outstanding rare antique auction. SALE ORDER: As items are on furniture and walls, there will not be a particular sale order. See ya there! TERMS: Cash or check with proper ID. Now accepting most major credit cards. Nothing removed until settled for. Statements made the day of sale takes precedence over printed material. Everything sold as is where is. Not responsible for accidents. Restroom available. Concessions Provided. Check our website for upcoming auctions and for additional pictures!!
NANCE AUCTION SERVICE No matter how big, or small, we do them all!!! In God We Trust • Philippians 4:13 Col. Bill Nance, 417-214-0093 Col. Sean Beazley, 417-247-6754
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LIFESTYLES
DEC. 22, 2023 • 5B
A world without love
BY HEATHER HAYGOOD Columnist
W
hat would the world look like without love? For humans, love is our competitive edge. We are motivated by the desire to love or to be loved. Human babies cannot walk, seek food, or run from danger within hours or days
after birth. Their survival is based upon someone’s choice to love and take care of them. Heroic rescues are rooted in love. You will often read that the hero says something like, “I did what I would’ve wanted someone to do for my child.” I think the absolute best parts of humanity are born of love. “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear.” 1 John 4:18 When love is our motivator, we do not make fearbased decisions. We are less likely to hold grudges. Grudges, after all are based in fear of being hurt. We
are less likely to stereotype and judge each other. Love wants to see the best in our fellow man and see them overcome their own mistakes. The landscape of the world would look vastly different if all of us allowed love to lead us. Would there be any racism or prejudice? Would there be any homeless or hungry? How would your life change if everyone around you allowed love to lead them? How could you make a difference if you woke up every morning and lived from that place of love inside of you? We all fall short. Humans
will never be perfect. We have all judged, gossiped, lied and hurt someone close to us. Did we learn from those things? Did we grow? Are we able to do better the next time? Are we humble enough to apologize? The Christmas season is a great time to recommit to walking in love towards our fellow man, and I think about love often throughout the season. I think of love when I give gifts and when I wrap gifts. I believe that presentation matters, but the intention inside is a poignant way to speak to someone about their value to you.
I want my Christmas gifts to be an expression of love. The first and greatest gift was love. Our modern Christmas season no matter how it has evolved is rooted in God’s love for mankind, how that love manifested in physical form and sent a message of love to the world. What would you do to right a wrong in your child’s life? Would you simply punish them? Would you try to understand where and why they went astray? Would you seek to understand them a little more so that you could love them into wholeness? I
don’t believe you can relegate the Christmas story to a birth and inevitable death. I believe that the journey of Christ is massively important to understand. “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” John 1:14 Love dwelt among us. I don’t want to know a world without love. I am committed to doing my part. I choose love. Merry Christmas! I would love to hear from you! Please reach out to me at my website, HSHaygood. com, or find me on Facebook under HS Haygood.
As far as the dosage: Visit with your doctor or pharmacist as they can base the dosage or parallel it with your weight. So far, there has been no safety concerns reported with the NAC supplementation. It would be a good idea, though, if you are pregnant or nursing to check with your obstetrician and pediatrician before adding this to your daily regimen. There are some concerns with taking NAC if you are in blood thinners as it can magnify the effects of the anticoagulants as well as change the effects of the nitroglycerine if you are on these meds. If you are a herb person and take L-arginine, niacin, stinging nettle, garlic, ginger, and/or gingko, do not take NAC. When you are shopping for the highest quality NAC, be sure to look for an indication that the product has undergone routine third party testing (for purity and potency). Reputable third
party testers include: Pharmacopeia, NSF International and ConsumerLabs.com. Plus, you can always check with your pharmacist about these questions along with any you may have on dosages. For highly sensitive people, there could be some mild side effects that occur in the beginning with NAC such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea and indigestion. I routinely take 2000 mgs per day without any side effects. This supplement is like a super charger for your immune system. It takes over (NAC) knocking out the free radicals and it neutralizes inflammation thereby
giving your immune system a much needed rest and the time to recharge itself. Your immune system doesn’t just fight the bacterium and viruses, but, as well, keeps the cells on the right pathway so as to not morph into pathological dividing and multiplying (cancer). Living in these times of germ warfare (Covid) we sure cannot do ourselves any harm by taking any and all steps available to us in ramping up our immune systems; our health is OUR job/responsibility and no one else’s. If my readers have any questions or topic suggestions/preferences, please feel free to email me at jmgad7580@gmail.com.
NAC: Uses and benefits
BY JODY JOHNSON GODFREY Wellness Design Specialist
H
ad a designer friend from Nashville tip me off about a supplement he started taking after he was diagnosed with liver cancer in his early twenties. He took/ takes it religiously and his cancer had never returned and now is in his late thirties. I had heard about it a few years before, but it always helps to validate “education” when you hear it from REAL people with REAL medical issues. He is the ultimate picture of health, physically and mentally today! NAC is the acronym for N-acetylcysteine. It is a nonessential amino acid that converts into the antioxidant “gluta-
thione” in the liver. As well, NAC is a building block for proteins. NAC used to be a “prescription only” drug that was then used primarily to combat Tylenol overdoses (toxicity) as well as certain respiratory conditions such as COPD. In August of 2022, the FDA announced a consideration to change its position (as a “prescription only”) and make it available to the masses as a supplement. NAC has been considered for the treatment of various psychiatric disorders. After careful research, it was found that taking between 2000 and 2400 mgs per day of NAC (orally) may have very positive outcomes in the treatment of schizophrenia and substance use disorders. The fact that NAC is a super antioxidant AND an anti-inflammatory supplement improves brain health while modifying neurological pathways (clearing out the cobwebs). As well, NAC has been
shown to aid in the management of the general autism spectrum. A study proved out that 8-12 weeks of taking the NAC supplement resulted in less hyperactivity and irritability AND added social awareness in those with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder. NAC is also known for supporting healthy aging. A combination of Glycine and NAC supplementation improved age-related health abnormalities. A couple of those were oxidative stress (cells wearing out prematurely) and systolic blood pressure along with the ability to walk faster and straighter and showing strides in muscle strength. NAC can be delivered in the form of a pill, powder, or effervescent tablets. Some forms of NAC have a strong odor which can mimic sulfur or rotten eggs which may necessitate combining with a good flavored drink to mark the smell and taste.
6B • DEC. 22, 2023
YOUR MONEY
bransonglobe.com
Dave Says...For starters, have a plan
BY DAVE RAMSEY, CEO, Ramsey Solutions, and an eight-time No. 1 national best-selling author, and host of The Ramsey Show
D
ear Dave, My mom and dad always told me to live within my means. As an adult, I’ve made some mistakes with
money, including falling right back into debt after paying off everything. I’m tired of this rollercoaster, and I want to get control of my finances for good. Can you give me some advice on where to start? Melissa Dear Melissa, It’s frustrating, isn’t it? But making mistakes with money means just one thing. It means you’re human. We’ve all done it. Think about this, though. We’re approaching a traditional time of the year for changes. On top of that, you’re smart
enough to have realized what you’ve done in the past hasn’t worked. Believe it or not, I was once in the exact same spot you are now. When it happened to me, there were three pieces to the puzzle that helped me break the cycle. One was fear. Specifically, I was scared to death that I wouldn’t be able to take care of my family, and that I’d retire broke. Now, don’t misunderstand me. No one should live their lives in fear. But a healthy, reasonable level of fear can provide needed motivation.
Another was disgust. I realized what I was doing was stupid. I was tired of living that way, and I made a conscious, purposeful decision that things were going to be different. The third piece, and maybe the most important because it’s connected to our spiritual walk, was contentment. We live in a society that’s constantly having the idea that we’ll be happier, or more successful, or more admired, if we’ll only buy this or that product. We’re constantly marketed to, and when we have this
stuff in our faces day after day, we can become unsatisfied with just about every aspect of our lives. Don’t let it drag you down. It’s all just an illusion. One of the things I did to combat this, was to start living on a strict, written, monthly budget. Also, I stopped going places where I was tempted to spend money. You shouldn’t give a drunk a drink, right? So, don’t put yourself in a bad situation when it comes to your behavior with money. If you go wandering through the mall without
a specific plan, you’ll lose every single time. When you go to the store make a list of only the things you need. On top of that, take only enough cash with you to buy what you need. If you can walk in and back out without buying a bunch of stuff that wasn’t on your list, it’s a win. Every time you do this, it’s another win and another step away from your old habits and in the right direction. You can do this, Melissa. God bless you. —Dave
Stock Market Insights: The unexpected market kiss
DR. RICHARD BAKER, AIF®, is the founder of and an executive wealth advisor at Fervent Wealth Management. https://www. facebook.com/Dr.RichardBaker
I
reached out to shake her hand, and to my shock, the older lady kissed me
• STRESS
Continued from page 4B
the gym). Exercise helps your body process and release stress hormones, and nature is important for our emotional and physical health. Here are some ways you can stay active during the holidays:
hard on the lips. It was years ago in Belarus after giving a speech and using the example of harvesting potatoes with my grandpa as a boy. I was so shocked that I thought I would die. Similarly, the market was looking for a firm handshake from Chairman Powell and unexpectedly got a big kiss on the lips. The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady on Wednesday, but the after-speech press conference is what caught the markets off guard. The Fed signaled
its rate hiking campaign was finished by forecasting three rate cuts next year. The Fed released some projection numbers, but what shocked the market more than the numbers was that the Fed felt confident enough to put them in writing for the world to see. Before the meeting, many guessed that Powell would speak negatively to rein in markets already rallying on anticipated rate cuts. Instead of being negative, he confirmed the market’s expectations and threw fuel on a
hot fire. Wednesday’s speech was a complete U-turn in tone from as recent as two weeks ago when Powell spoke at Spelman College in Georgia. This not only marked the end of the most aggressive rate hike cycle in forty years but set up a potential first rate cut as early as March 2024. That’s as close to an unexpected market kiss as you can get. All this came about because inflation has declined much faster than the Fed expected and will soon hit
its 2% target. If this happens, the Fed will shift its focus on lowering rates fast enough to avoid a recession. The U.S. economy could still have a recession in the next few months, especially as interest-sensitive parts of the economy continue to struggle with high-interest rates, such as the housing market and manufacturing, which might already be in recession. The good news is that unemployment rates are still low, as are claims for unemployment insurance, and
the stock market is rallying. All of which doesn’t usually happen when the economy is about to go into recession. The germaphobe in me wanted to melt into the floor when the old gal gave me the Belarusian cultural greeting. I guess she really connected with the potato story. I made a major life decision at that moment; I would never again use a potato story in a Belarusian speech; it’s just not worth the risk of that kiss. But I will stand in line every day for an unexpected market kiss. Have a blessed week!
• Bundle up and go on a walk to see Christmas lights in the neighborhood. • Get an epic snowball fight going with the neighbors (play is exercise too). • Walk through a Christmas tree farm. • Go ice-skating. • Build a snowman in the
front yard. • Go for a hike or nature walk. • Go sledding. Nobody wants to be sick at Christmastime— and exercising, getting outside, and resting are all natural immune-boosting activities that will help you feel strong, peaceful and healthy.
11. Take some quiet time for yourself. Keep your sanity by scheduling some quiet time to do things you enjoy. Read a book. Do a Christmas devotional. Sit down for five or 10 minutes with a meditation app. Give yourself some breathing room between parties, travel schedules, work deadlines and shopping. Another key is to try to stick to your normal routine. If a normal day starts with pouring yourself a cup of coffee and reading the newspaper, don’t skip it. If you exercise every day, keep exercising. Routines help you stay calm
and focused—plus, it’s a great way to stay sane, especially when you’re sharing a bathroom with your in-laws. 12. Ask good questions. I’m willing to bet you don’t see your extended family all that often—so when you do, why not take time to get to know them on a deeper level? Instead of making awkward small talk, really dig in and see if you can learn something about them you didn’t know before. Be curious, not judgmental. Ask your grandparents for their best piece of marriage advice. Ask your 5-year-old nephew
which superhero he’d want to be and why. 13. Connect with the people around you. Christmastime is meant to be filled with joy, gratitude, belly laughs and lingering conversations over the dinner table. But connection doesn’t happen by accident. Don’t get so caught up in the mania that you forget to enjoy the people you’re doing all this for. And do your best to respond well to holiday stress this year. Yeah, the holidays can be crazy— but we can choose to be gracious and generous with ourselves and our loved ones.
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YOUR MONEY
DEC. 22, 2023 • 7B
Life-changing events that move the housing market
al Association of Realtors (NAR) there have been a lot of this type of milestone or life change over the last two years (see graph below): And, these big life chang-
stubbornly low inventory make today’s housing market particularly challenging, many of today’s buyers are motivated by life changes, such as growing families,
BY HEATHER TANKERSLEY, REALTOR®, provides services for residential, commercial, land and lake properties in the Branson Tri-Lakes area. Life is a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, like the excitement of welcoming a new addition, retiring and starting a new adventure, or the bittersweet feeling of an empty nest. If something like this is changing in your own life, you may be considering buying or selling a house. That’s because through all these life-altering events, there is one common thread—the need to move. Reasons People Still Need To Move Today According to the Nation-
es are going to continue to impact people moving forward, even with the current affordability challenges brought on by higher mortgage rates and rising home prices. As Claire Trapasso, Executive News Editor at Realtor.com, says: “Because high mortgage rates, elevated home prices, and
supporting elderly parents or grown children, or accommodating professional needs. . .” Lean On a Real Estate Professional for Help Whether you’re beginning your search for a home or preparing to sell your current house, you don’t have to go it alone. With their expertise, a real estate agent
Dave Ramsey’s EntreLeadership: Don’t be afraid to start small Dave, I’d like to slowly start a business online while working my regular job. But even though I’m in pretty good financial shape, I don’t have much money left at the end of the month. I have no debt except for my house, and I also have nine months of expenses in my emergency fund. How can I start my business without borrowing the money? Kirsten Kirsten, I like where your head is. Start and run your business with cash. Period. Even if it takes a little while to get things off the ground. That should be a guideline for every entrepreneur. But guess what? You may have more money on hand than you think. You’re a little heavy on your emergency fund right now. I recommend people have three to six months of expenses set aside for emergencies. You could back your emergency fund down to six months of expenses, and move the extra over to an account designated for your business.
Thank you for reading the
After that, grow it slowly each month until you have enough to open your doors. You’d be surprised how much cash will pile up, even if you save just a little bit at a time. The big thing, Kirsten, is don’t be afraid to start small. Don’t despise humble beginnings. Some of the best and most successful companies in America started as micro-businesses or cottage industries. I literally started my company on a card table in my living room. It’s easier and safer in a lot of ways. So, I love
the wisdom you’re showing by wanting to keep your full-time job while starting the business online. So, yeah. Take three or four months of expenses out of your emergency fund, and move it to a designated business account. Watch your budget carefully, and keep spending to a minimum. Above all, don’t take your business into debt. Grow it at the speed of cash. The best, most successful businesses don’t outrun their money and other resources! —Dave
is an invaluable partner who can help you smoothly transition through these big moments in your life. Here are just a few examples. When Buying a Home If you’re welcoming a new addition and want more space, the need for a new home may be a top priority. While higher home prices and mortgage rates are creating challenges for buyers, you may have to find a way to meet your changing needs, even with today’s mortgage rates. A skilled real estate agent can help. Their expertise and knowledge of the local housing market can save you a considerable amount of time and stress. An agent will take the time to understand your specific needs, budget, and preferences, allowing them to narrow down your search and present you with suitable options. When Selling a House If you’re retiring or going through a separation or divorce, your main focus may be to make the most out of
your investment when selling your house, so you can find one that works better for you moving forward. This is another place where a real estate agent’s expertise truly shines. They can accurately assess your home’s market value, suggest improvements to enhance its appeal, and craft a strategic marketing plan. Their negotiation skills are a big asset when it comes to making sure you get a fair price for your house, allowing you to move on to the next chapter of your life with confidence and peace of mind. No matter your situation, lean on a trusted professional for help as you buy or sell
a home. Bottom Line If recent life-changing events have you wanting or needing to move, let’s connect. It’s Your Move! When you’re ready to buy or sell too, let’s connect. Have you heard of the Temporary Buydowns? Buyers have access to lower mortgage payments by reducing their rates. Call me today and I can introduce you to lenders that are helping buyers with home ownership. Heather Tankersley REALTOR®, ABR® Keller Williams TriLakes D: 417.332.5130 O:417.336.4999
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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 tick-
ets and information or visit www.legendsinconcert.com/branson.
DECEMBER
• 21 A Night of Healing and Miracles, with Jane Kranichfield and friends. Come find hope and healing and come believing for your miracle! Thursday, Dec. 21, 6:00-9:30 p.m. at Point Royale Clubhouse, 142 Clubhouse Drive, Branson. Free meeting. Love offerings will be taken. For more information, ph. 870-688-6559 or email, afc365@yahoo. com. • 24 Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service, open to the public, 6 p.m,, at Church of The Harvest, 501 West College, Branson. https:// w w w. b r a n s o n c h u r choftheharvest.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, 417-544-1405; wranglershonkytonk.com. • 29 Jukebox Winos. Live music at Turkey Creek Brewery in historic downtown Hollister at 1865 U.S.-65 Bus., 6:30–8:30 p.m. https://www.jukeboxwinos.com • 29 New Year’s Eve Party from 2 p.m.-6 p.m. Ball drops at 5 p.m. Entry is $10 each. If you bring a dessert, ticket is $5. Kimberling Senior Center,
Christmas SANTA! OMG! SANTA’S COMING! I KNOW HIM! I KNOW HIM! visitwith santa on saturday dec 23 11:30am to 1 pm
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TIMES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. BRANSONIMAX.COM
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IMAX ELITE Cinema WONKA W 12:30, 3:30, 7:10
AQUAMAN & THE LAST KINGDOM E 12:30, 3:20 (3D), 7:30 ANYONE BUT YOU E 1:20, 4:00, 7:00 MIGRATION W 1:00, 4:30, 7:10
OZARKS W 10:00 GRAND CANYON W 11:00 IRELAND Q 12:00 OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY CLOSED CHRISTMAS EVE
NAPOLEON R 12:00, 3:30, 6:50 TROLLS: BAND TOGETHER W 12:00, 2:20 LOVE ACTUALLY R 4:30, 7:30
branson.com. 3235 W 76 Country Blvd.
JANUARY
• 18 Imagine Technical Institute (ITI), a new nonprofit that improves the lives of individuals with disabilities through competitive integrated employment opportunities, will host a community open house on Thursday, January 18. The event will be held from 4-6:30 p.m. at ITI’s office located at 101 State Drive, Suite 240, in Hollister. For more information, h t t p s : / / w w w. i m a g inejobs.org. Advance registration is requested at https://ITIopenhouse.eventbrite.com • 19 Red Cross Blood Drive at Our Lady of the Lake Parish Center, 202 Vaughn Dr., Branson, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.redcrossblood.org. • 20 Steampunk Academy for grades K - 5, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., Community Room at Branson Tri-Lakes News. Register by calling 417-894-6036.
FEBRUARY
• 3 Forsyth Area Chamber of Commerce’s Gala is coming in February! Theme: Glamping in Forsyth! To be held at the Taney Center from 6 to 8 p.m. You can sponsor it or purchase your tickets for the events here: https:// www.forsythmissouri.org/event-details/ glamping-in-forsyth-gala.
Donate blood. Help save lives.
Friday, Jan. 19 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Schedule your appointment by calling 800-733-2767, or go to RedCrossBlood.org and enter OURLADY
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AQUAMAN & THE LAST KINGDOM IMAX E 1:10, 4:00, 7:30
63 Kimberling Blvd., Kimberling City, phone 417-739-5242. Featuring karaoke, games, finger foods and sparkling cider. https://www.kimberlingcityseniorcenter. com. • 31 Two Step in the New Year at Wrangler’s Star Studded Honky Tonk. By reservation only. $55 per person, includes meal (8 oz. filet or fried shrimp or bourbon glazed salmon, plus sides and dessert), tax and gratuity included; champagne toast at midnight also included. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; dinner served at 7:30 p.m. Live music begins at 8:45 p.m. Limited seating. Reserve early. Phone 417-544-1405. Located at 625 Historic Hwy 165, Branson. • 31 Titanic Branson exclusive: Happy New Year! Celebrate the New Year with a special flashlight tour, Sunday, December 31, 8 p.m.-1 a.m. One day only. Titanic Branson crew will guide the way, along with your complimentary Titanic Museum flashlight. Hear the myths, mysteries, legends and facts. Reservations required. Adult and child rates only offered—no family passes for this event. Titanic rates to guests are $31 plus tax per adult and $15 plus tax per child. Rate includes flashlight tour and commemorative flashlight. For reservations: www.titanic-
THE SHIFT E 1:20, 4:10 IRON CLAW R 1:30, 4:20, 7:20 I HEARD THE BELLS 3:30 NAPOLEON R 12:30, 4:00, 7:20 WISH W 12:45, 3:00, 6:50
HUNGER GAMES: BALLAD OF SONGBIRDS AND SNAKES HOLDOVERS R 1:00, 4:00, 7:10 E 12:30, 3:50, 7:30 WONKA W 1:00, 3:40, 6:50 THE BOY AND THE HERON E 7:30 (DUB)
JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM W 12:30, 6:50 OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY • CLOSED CHRISTMAS EVE
Our Lady of Streamline your donation experience and save up to 15 the Lake minutes by visiting Catholic Church RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass to complete your preParish Center donation reading and health 202 Vaughn Dr. history questions on the day of your appointment. Branson
ENTERTAINMENT / HISTORY / COMMUNITY DEC. 22, 2023 • SECTION C
Can Legends in Concert throw a New Year’s Eve Party or what? (Photo courtesy of Legends in Concert)
A ‘Legendary’ Christmas week and New Year’s Eve in Branson BY GARY J. GROMAN, Independent Journalist Great news for Branson visitors during the Christmas season. Except for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Legends in Concert will be performing shows at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater daily through January 1, 2024. Their last Christmas shows will be at 8 p.m.
on December 21 and 23. In the week between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, they will present their amazing regular show featuring “Garth Brooks,” “Johnny Cash,” “Brooks and Dunn,” “The Blues Brothers,” and “Elvis Presley,” the Legends in Concert Dancers, Singers, and Band at 8 p.m. on December 27 through 30; at 3
p.m. on December 31; and at 8 p.m. on January 1, 2024. The name “Dick Clark” is synonymous with celebrating New Year’s Eve. And there’s no better way to do it than at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater in Branson with the Legends in Concert. A spectacular, one-of-a-kind show amid a party “complete with party
favors, gourmet boxed dinners or fine dining, cash bar, and a midnight celebration like no other!” This legendary celebration starts with a choice of dining options: a VIP dinner service or a gourmet boxed lunch. Seating begins at 8 p.m. for those with the New Year’s Eve VIP Party Box Package. Limited to 66
seats, this package includes a gourmet dinner “served in the exclusive VIP Party Box overlooking the theater, premium party favors, midnight champagne toast,” and a special ‘Meet/Greet’” with the stars and a cash bar. The menu includes a steak and shrimp dinner - Ozark Mountain berry field green salad, fresh baked dinner
roll, herb seasoned Yukon Gold potatoes, roasted green beans, steak and shrimp, strawberry cheesecake, iced tea, water and coffee. There is also a pasta primavera vegetarian alternate. At 8:30 p.m. seating begins for those with the “New Year’s Eve Celebration” and “Preferred Celebration PackSEE LEGENDS, PAGE 7C
2C • DEC. 22, 2023
ENTERTAINMENT
bransonglobe.com
Area Entertainment: Faith, Family and Flag
BY LINDA PAGE Entertainment Writer
L
ast week the Hughes Brothers Theatre was host for the Faith, Family
and Flag concert. The event started off with a welcome from Jim Barber and a full military color guard. Ruth Denham led the Pledge of Allegiance and Ashley Stanton sang the National Anthem. Pastor Jay Scribner led the audience in prayer. Marshall Howden, who was instrumental in putting this concert together, introduced Dan Keeton who previously sang with well-known gospel greats such as The Dixie Mel-
Members of Re-Vibe perform. (Photo by Linda Page)
ody Boys and Gold City. Dan sang “Somebody Died For Me,” “Give It Away” and “I Love This Land.” There were several speakers on hand to talk about faith, family and the flag. Pastor Scribner discussed faith based on the Bible. He said the Bible is the foundation of our faith, the focus of our faith, fundamentals of our faith and functional for our faith. Brian Seitz, State Repre-
sentative for the 156th District, shared information on some of the bills he has filed to help the people of Taney County and Missouri. These include bills related to PTSD treatment for first responders, free lunches for Missouri students and helping victims of child sex abuse. Barbara Fairchild and Roy Morris were on hand and Barbara sang “Once Upon a Cross” and Roy recited “The Ragged Old Flag.” Mayor
The Hughes Brothers sing. (Photo by Linda Page)
Milton and Marshall surprised Barbara with a proclamation designating December 14, 2023, as Barbara Fairchild Day in Branson. Marshall spoke on family, his rich family legacy and his own new family. Another highlight was the Hughes Brothers singing “I Believe” and “America the Beautiful.” State Representative Brad Hudson was in attendance and spoke briefly, stating he is running for the Missouri State Senate and will not seek re-election as State Representative. Marshall is also up for State Rep reelection. Eric Burleson spoke to the crowd via video. Darren Meyers, founder and president of Freedom Encounters, spoke on the flag and the importance of educating the next generation about what the flag represents and about the church and state conflict. Members of the Re-Vibe show at the Hughes Brothers Theatre closed out the event singing “True Colors.” Re-
TOP: Roy Morris. BOTTOM: Marshall Howden and Barbara Fairchild (Photos by Linda Page) Vibe stars the second generation of the Hughes family.
Village of Indian Point holds gingerbread house contest
(Special to Branson Globe)
BRANSON
visitor
(Special to Branson Globe)
Submitted to Branson Globe A gingerbread contest was held at The Village of Indian Point Community Room, 957 Indian Point Road, on December 8. A total of seven gingerbread houses were judged by Village of Indian Point community and staff, with winners announced followed by presentation of awards to all winners.
The categories and winners for the competition are as follows: • Best Theme was awarded to Heidi Colon with The Cottage Resort. • Most Creative was awarded to Amelia Colon. • Community Choice Award was awarded to Beth Frazier with The Village of Indian Point.
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HISTORY
DEC. 22, 2023 • 3C
Memories from the Homestead: Happy 90th Birthday KWTO lyn, whose music career of his most remembered began at age 14 in 1944, quotes was, “Find a need dreamed of being a KWTO and fill it.” performer! Granny and her In 1948 the Burge Hossiblings grew up around pital and nursing school the battery radio over here was experiencing financial in Stone County and never difficulties. Cox would missed the Goodwill Fam- contribute with donations ily or the Hayden Family. for the rest of his life, BY COWBOY JOHN FULLER- They loved the transcribed and thanks to his efforts, TON, a native of Taney County, shows with Roy Acuff and the hospital facility grew from 75 beds to 535. In and a member of the Sons of the Dr. Pepper broadcasts 1969, the hospital name the Pioneers. with the Sons of the Pi- was changed to the Lester n iconic Springfield oneers. Granny and her E. Cox Medical Center, to radio station is celesiblings were known as honor him for his years of brating a big birthday on the Allen Quartet. Unfor- assistance. Christmas Day. KWTO tunately by the time they Long-time KWTO manwent on the air December were ready for a radio ager Ralph Foster (189325, 1933. For those not career, it was a little too 1984) is remembered for aware, those call letters late. The station was mak- his programming talents, stand for “Keep Watching ing the switch to playing bringing much variety to The Ozarks.” The station records, instead of “live” the KWTO on-air lineup. was founded by Greene performance broadcasts. Performers such as Slim County native Lester From the time KWTO Wilson, the Goodwill Cox and was managed by hit the airwaves, they spe- Family, the Hayden FamRalph Foster. Thanks to cialized in featuring “live” ily, Bill Ring, Zed Tennis, their dedication, Springperformances during their Chet Atkins, Les Paul, Hofield would become a live daytime programming. mer and Jethro, the Carter music mecca for many Their Korn’s-A-Krackin’ Family, as well as Roy years. morning broadcast was so Lanham and the WhipI have several childpopular, it aired all over poorwills, were all major hood memories of listenthe U.S. over the Mutual stars. Foster truly believed ing to KWTO. Most vivid Broadcast System. This that Springfield could posare those times with my “live” daytime program- sibly overtake Nashville Mom’s folks, my Grandming would continue on and in the 1950s many of parents over here at GarKWTO until 1959. A mas- the KWTO talent would ber, who always had their sive number of local talent find continued popularity radio tuned in to 560 AM. was needed to take care of on the weekly Ozark JubiI remember when I was litthis daily task. lee television series out of tle, and we’d be spending a Station founder Lester Springfield. day with Grandpa Willard Cox (1895-1968) is long Porter Wagoner, Smiley and Grandma Lois, runremembered in Springfield Burnette, and others would ning around in their 1975 for his contributions. He make commercial recordChevy pickup doing cattle was involved in area real ings in the KWTO studios, chores, or making a run to estate, dairy farms and and record hundreds of pick apples at the orchard tractor dealerships. One hours of transcribed radio in Marionville. Memories of that radio sound still remain in my mind. It was GREAT SELECTION OF on one of those apple pickMYRA BAGS! ing trips that I first heard HAND MADE BELTS THAT LASTS the voice of Paul Harvey. LARGEST ASSORTMENT OF WALLETS I was four years old. I recall how the station came in as clear as a bell. It was AM radio. It was unique. I loved it. On my dad’s side of the family, Granny Eve-
A
The Ozark Farm Hour Gang was a popular KWTO broadcast in the 1940s. Seen here at the KWTO studio are standing left to right: Mike Dosch, Charlotte Wood, Goo-Goo Rutledge, Bo-Bo Pike, Willie Wells and Virgil Phillips. Seated left to right: Hank Hutchings, Uncle Carl Hayden, Bobbie Faye, Boots Faye and Tiny Hunt. (Photo courtesy of the Sons of the Pioneers Museum—Wallace and Evelyn Fullerton archive) programs during their time
in Springfield. Nashville
SEE MEMORIES, PAGE 6C
YOUR EYES WON’T BELIEVE YOUR EARS!™
417-334-0775
WE’RE ALL ABOUT
The History AREA APPRECIATION of Branson DEC 1 - DEC 30 ONLY $6 Come take a look at the Reish Family Gallery of Branson History, 120 S. Commercial Street in Historic Downtown Branson Hours: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Monday - Saturday. 417-239-1912 Admission is free. Donations appreciated. www.wrvhs.org/locations/bcm
PLUS APPLICABLE TAXES AND FEES
...with a DONATION of 2 non-perishable food items.
(Benefiting Christian Action Ministries)
For the following counties below, must show a valid photo ID. Purchaser may bring up to (6) guests or members of immediate family for the same ticket price. Other restrictions apply. MO: Barry, Christian, Dallas, Douglas, Greene, Jasper, Lawrence, McDonald, Newton, Ozark, Polk, Stone, Taney, Webster, Wright. AR: Baxter, Benton, Boone, Carroll, Fulton, Izard, Madison, Marion, Newton, Searcy, Stone, Washington.
Call for Tickets 877-SIX-SHOW • theSIXshow.com
1600 West 76 Country Blvd. Branson, MO
4C • DEC. 22, 2023
COMMUNITY
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Let’s glow: Silver Dollar City’s ‘Christmas Crew’ decorates Missouri Governor’s Mansion
A beautifully decorated tree (Special to Branson Globe) Submitted to Branson Globe Since Missouri Gov. Mike Parson has been in office, there’s a certain Silver Dollar City sparkle around the mansion at Christmastime. Each year, the halls are decked and the trees are trimmed by The City’s Visuals team, who recently returned from their annual, four-day decorating trip to the state capital. The tradition started in 2019 when First Lady Teresa Parson needed tips to spruce up trees and doll up what she calls “The People’s House.” A big fan of Silver Dollar City, she reached out
to the park for ideas. “At the time, the man-
sion staff was buying decorations from local stores but weren’t finding exactly what they were looking for,” explains Kelly Eutsler, The City’s visual design manager. “We connected them with some sales reps to order what they needed.” The Silver Dollar City gals met mansion staff at retail markets in Dallas and Atlanta to gather what they would need, focusing on buying big items that could be reused and repurposed each year. That’s when a Christmas light bulb went off in Kelly’s creative brain. “The Parson family invited us to the mansion for dinner that year to review their décor. We said, ‘Why don’t we just help you put this all up, too?’” Kelly says. That was the first year
Kicking back for some football with the First Family. (Special to Branson Globe)
the Silver Dollar City team helped execute the Christmas plans in person. Each holiday season since – except for 2020 – Kelly, Carrie Duvall and Karen McCaulley travel north to Jefferson City for a few days of festive fun. “It’s always so surreal when we pull up to the mansion and those gates open for us,” gushes Kelly. “They have always truly treated us like part of the family.” That includes the freedom to roam the mansion. “No one follows us around and tells us not to touch stuff,” laughs Carrie. “There have even been a few times when it’s just the three of us hanging out in the mansion with security while the family is away.” They say the “girls’ trip” almost feels like some sort of fancy slumber party. “The mansion is historic and absolutely beautiful,” Karen says. “Then, you see us walking around in our socks and pajamas. The staff encourages us to make ourselves at home, and it sure feels like it.” Carrie remembers one of the first years the team went to decorate and learned the Parson family loves football. “Kelly was listening to the Chiefs game when we got there and security told us to go up to the third floor and watch the game with the governor,” she smiles.
Ma it a NEW HOME for Chrimas!
“Oh, yeah!” remembers Karen. “We went up there and the Governor and First Lady had their sweatpants on with their feet up on the coffee table watching the game. They told us to have a seat and join them.” “Crazy to think we were just chilling with the Governor watching football,” Kelly says. “They let us take all
the City team the theme months ahead of time. “We’ve helped them plan the purchase of big items like garland and trees that we can retool with each different theme,” Kelly says. “We can always add different bows, change out ornaments, and things like that to match the theme.” For example, this year’s
The “Christmas Crew”: Karen McCaulley, Kelly Eutsler, and Carrie Duvall (Special to Branson Globe) the pictures we wanted to prove it!” It’s not all “play” while the team is tromping around the Governor’s grounds each year. It takes plenty of planning and collaborating with mansion staff, which gives
theme is honoring armed forces. “We helped them keep the décor from looking like Fourth of July and make it more fitting,” Karen says. “As we’re decorating, the staff SEE CHRISTMAS CREW, PAGE 6C
Liquidation Discount Store In the bins this week are a lot of great last minute stocking stuffers! We are closed on Christmas Day.
Merry Christmas!
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The benefit will be Saturday night 7:30 our regular Motown show. All locals and friends of Brad can get an admission ticket for the show for any donation to Brad's benefit. A donation container will be at the door. There will also be our show tickets for other shows for auction.
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COMMUNITY
DEC. 22, 2023 • 5C
Reader’s Corner: Meet Duane Laflin, magician turned author BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer After more than three decades of performing his Grand Magic Show in 18 countries across five continents, including 47 of the 50 United States, Duane Laflin and his wife, Mary, are finally home to stay in Branson. Duane has long felt Missouri is home, having spent part of his teenage years living near Sedalia, and the couple became Branson residents 10 years ago but still traveled extensively with the show. After officially retiring in 2022, they anchored down in the Branson community and now only
travel on occasional weekends. Duane still enjoys entertaining, singing four times a week at Jackie B. Goode’s Uptown Cafe in Branson, and doing magic shows for special events. However, at present, he most of all enjoys writing novels! While working as an illusionist, he wrote technical books relating to his trade, teaching concepts, showmanship and presentation skills. Upon retirement, he decided to attempt a novel—he had often thought about it but had not taken time to investigate the process of writing stories vs. simply conveying informa-
tion. Once he started, he discovered he liked doing it, and was pleased and encouraged to discover other people enjoyed the books, with reviews like “Your books have made me fall in love with reading all over again,” or “I stayed up all night reading it.” Because he and his wife so appreciate Branson and the values it represents, Duane decided his books, except for a series based on biblical characters, would somehow be connected to Branson. One novel, “Run Right At It,” features a Branson man who coincidentally comes across a murder in northern Arkansas and must
flee for his life as well as defend his family against those who want to kill him for witnessing the crime. The story includes Branson places and terrain—hills and the lake—and values often associated with the Branson area including love for family, support of law enforcement, and determination to do the right thing. A series of novels features an illusionist who has a theater in Branson. The Chance Powers books deal with nefarious people from around the world who create problems that must be solved by creative thinking. Each story refers to Branson, and some of the adventures occur in
Branson. In another book, “Escalation,” a young man who returns from the French Foreign Legion meets a girl from Branson who works for Homeland Security. The two work to expose and stop a terrorist plot, falling in love in the process. Duane’s current writing project is about the life of David in the Bible. While being true to scripture, he is incorporating historical fiction elements to bring David alive in the minds of readers as a real person with real feelings, failings, faith and accomplishments. Duane is a believer who describes his writing perspective as “the Christian
Children’s Shopping Day held at Taneyhills Library BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer The Taneyhills Library Thrift Store hosted a Children’s Shopping Day on Saturday. Children of all ages enjoyed shopping for holiday gifts for family members and friends during the shop’s third annual event. Tables of new items, all with kid-friendly pricing, were displayed for children to choose from. Items ranged in price from 25 cents to $4. Shoppers were also invited to shop throughout the store. Elves were on hand to help children make selections and wrap gifts. Children also enjoyed
Christmas cookies, Christmas music, a coloring station, candy canes from one of Santa’s helpers, and lots of Christmas fun. The Taneyhills Library Thrift Store is located in the lower level of the Taneyhills Library, 200 South 4th Street in downtown Branson.
RIGHT: One of Santa’s helpers visited with the kids at Taneyhills Library on Saturday. FAR RIGHT: Kids of all ages enjoyed selecting gifts for family and friends (Photos by K.D. Michaels) SEE MORE PICS ON PAGE 9C!
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colliding with the real world.” His characters are morally upright people who must deal with the ugly realities of human behavior. There is no profanity or explicit language in his books, but they are gritty and “no holds barred” in dealing with bad things people do. Find Laflin’s books on Amazon.com under Duane Laflin, or type in the titles. You can also chat with Duane in person on Saturday, December 23, from 12 noon until 2 p.m. at “Its Magic and Jokes” store, 124 S. Bus. Hwy. 65 in downtown Branson. Duane will be there with his books, and there will be free snacks!
6C • DEC. 22, 2023
COMMUNITY
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Toast to 2024: Unforgettable New Year’s Eve festivities await at Big Cedar Lodge!
Ice skating at the Winter Wonderland Ice Rink (Special to Branson Globe) Submitted to Branson Globe As the countdown to 2024 begins, join us at America’s Premier Wilderness Resort, Big Cedar Lodge, for an exceptional New Year’s Eve celebration. With dancing, fireworks, and world-class dining, there’s options for every age to enjoy. This is a celebration you won’t want to miss! See below for details on our New Year’s Eve celebrations: New Year’s Eve at Harry’s Cocktail Lounge &
Bar, December 31, 2023 | 5 p.m. –12:05 a.m. Located on the lower level of the historic Worman House, we invite guests to journey back to a bygone era at the newly opened Harry’s Cocktail Lounge & Bar. Guests can cheers to 2024 while enjoying live jazz, tantalizing treats, signature cocktails, and a front-row seat to midnight fireworks. No reservations are required (21-plus only). Open to the public New Year’s Eve at the
• CHRISTMAS CREW
Silver Dollar City, so our mansion work seems easy – and stress-free – to us. These trips are the best team builders!” “In the evenings, the Governor will walk in like a dad getting home from work and ask to see what we did
Continued from page 4C
always encourages us and tells us to go take breaks because we’re working so hard!” Kelly chimes in. “Yeah, but they don’t see how hard we work launching festivals at
Worman House, December 31 | 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. Experience the historic charm of The Worman House on New Year’s Eve. Built in the early 1920s as a country retreat for Frisco Railroad executive Harry Worman, The Worman House has been expanded and meticulously restored to its original beauty. With stunning views of the lake, custom themed cocktails and gourmet food, this evening of celebration promises memories as rich as this building’s history. ($150 per person). Open to the public New Year’s Eve at Osage Restaurant, December 31 | 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. Elevate your experience at the Osage Restaurant at Top of the Rock, where regional cuisine meets breathtaking Ozark views. Featuring unique artwork and Native American artifacts, you’ll experience much
more than just a meal, while dining atop the highest elevation in Taney County. ($125 per person). Open to the public. New Year’s Eve at Buffalo Bar, December 31 | 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. This cozy spot located on the lower level of Osage Restaurant is the perfect place to relax, celebrate the New Year, and enjoy worldclass dining. Walk-ins are welcome; wait times may vary. ($125 per person). Open to the public. Grandview Conference Center New Year’s Eve Celebration 2024, December 31, 2023 | 9 p.m. – January 1, 2024, 12:05 a.m. Step into 2024 with our 21-plus exclusive celebration at the Grandview Conference Center! Complete with charcuterie, in-house smoked brisket, and a spectacular fireworks finale.
Let’s dance the night away and raise a glass to the new year! ($99 per person). Open to the public. While mom and dad enjoy a special night out at one of our numerous restaurants across Big Cedar Lodge’s 4,600- acre rustic-luxury resort, our dedicated team at Big Cedar will keep your kiddos entertained for hours! New Year’s Eve Kids’ Party, December 31 | 7 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Location: Kids Discovery Center at Fun Mountain Our camping-themed New Year’s Eve extravaganza is sure to be a blast for the kiddos. This New Year’s Eve Kid’s Club adventure includes dinner, bowling, laser tag, face painting, balloon animals and a spectacular firework viewing for an unforgettable celebration. (Ages 4-12, $100 per child). Open to the public. New Year’s Eve Teen
Party, December 31 | 7 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. Spend New Year’s Eve at the coolest place in town— Fun Mountain! Teens will enjoy a private dinner with a DJ, followed by a private Holiday Lights Tram Tour and an hour at the Winter Wonderland Ice Rink. At 9 p.m., return to Fun Mountain via private tram for a DJ dance party and a $50 arcade card to use until it’s time to watch the dazzling Big Cedar Lodge Fireworks show! (Ages 13-17, $100 per teen). Open to the public. Both packages include: Supervised festivities from 7 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.—an immersive and safe environment for a memorable New Year’s Eve experience. Big Cedar Lodge is truly the place to be for New Year’s Eve. We would love to work with you to highlight all the festivities as we raise a glass to a dazzling 2024!
that day,” Karen says. “He always tells us ‘good job’ and takes time to ask each of us how we’re doing.” “It’s pretty awesome how laid back they are and how much they trust our vision,” Carrie says. “This has been such a fun tradition for us that we’ll always hold tight to. It’s a real honor.” There are so many halls to deck inside the sprawling house. The team is thought-
ful with each detail from poinsettias that line the staircase, to tons of trees and marvelous mantels. With their skilled hands, the mansion transforms each year into a winter wonderland. There was an added Silver Dollar City presence at the mansion this season. President Brad Thomas was invited to flip the ceremonial switch at the annual Tree Lighting, an event that drew thousands of
visitors to the mansion. Next year will be Gov. Parson’s final Christmas in the mansion as he ends his second term. The Silver Dollar City team hopes their decorating tradition will continue with the change in leadership. “Hopefully, the next governor appreciates our work and likes the look of what we accomplished during these years and asks us to keep coming back,” Kelly says.
The team says the magical partnership between Silver Dollar City and the Governor’s office has never been about politics. “In this divided world, I think we can all get behind the importance of helping each other and spreading cheer,” Karen says. “We know just how to do that! How fitting to bring sparkle from Silver Dollar City to Jefferson City. It warms my heart.”
• MEMORIES
work Ozark Jubilee series was done and KWTO radio now played records at all hours. The Springfield station saw its 30th year of broadcasting in December 1963. Ralph Foster remained involved in television and other civic work. He would help form Telecolor Inc. which was responsible for filming such shows as ABC’s Wide World of Sports.
KWTO continued its music format as “56 Country” though 1990 when it went to a full-time news talk station. In 2020 Meyer Communications sold the station to Zimmer Midwest Communications, and they continue the news-talk format today as a Fox News affiliate. KWTO memorabilia is still popular among fans and collectors and can range from song folios to
monthly program guides, to postcards and photos of many of the music personalities over the years. How many of you still have a KWTO bumper sticker or a KWTO calendar?? To packrats like myself, these items are wonderful treasures of our southwest Missouri history. Happy 90th Birthday KWTO, and us listeners will indeed “Keep Watching The Ozarks.”
Continued from page 3C
would continue to rise in popularity as it would become a recording studio hotspot, with Chet Atkins becoming heavily involved in a management position at RCA. Springfield would never catch up to that and by 1961, the net-
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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.
114 S. Commercial, Branson 417-334-1776 frontierflags.com
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.
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GOOD FOOD
DEC. 22, 2023 • 7C
Whiskey Balls BY CHEF JEFF WOODWARD, THE ROGUE CHEF TIme: 30 minutes Yield: 40 Special thanks to my mom, Deb Woodward. Ingredients: • 1 C Semi-sweet chocolate chips (6oz bag) • ½ C Sugar • 3 T Light Corn Syrup • ½ C Jack Daniels • 3 C (11oz box) Vanilla Wafers crushed
• 1 C finely chopped pecans (4oz) • ½ C Sugar (to roll balls in) Instructions: 1. Place chips in a bowl and melt over a double broiler, stirring occasionally until completely melted. 2. Whisk in ½ C sugar and corn syrup, then add Jack Daniels. 3. Mix vanilla wafers and nuts together.
4. Blend well with the chocolate mixture. 5. Place ½ C sugar in a shallow dish. 6. Scoop 1 T of chocolate mixture and roll into a ball. 7. Roll the ball in sugar, ensuring complete coverage. 8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours. 9. Store in an airtight container for at least 5 days
before eating. This allows wafers to soak up the alcohol. GO ROGUE by using Fireball Whiskey, rolling in finely crushed Red Hots, and drizzling with chocolate. Want Chef Jeff, The Rogue Chef, to make this treat or any other meal for you? Contact him at www. TheRogueChefBranson. com .
Cherry Bing Bars BY JANET STEINKAMP, editor Ingredients: • 12 oz. milk chocolate chips • 3/4 cup peanut butter • 1 cup peanuts, finely chopped • 2 cups sugar • 1/2 cup butter • 1 cup miniature marshmallows
• 2/3 cup evaporated milk • Pinch of salt • 1 tsp. vanilla • 5 oz. cherry chips (cherry chips come in a 10 oz. package) Instructions: 1. Melt the. milk chocolate chips and peanut butter. 2. Add the chopped peanuts.
Night Before Christmas Baked Potato Soup BY KAREN HALFPOP, Production Manager Easy, and very rich and filling, this soup is perfect for Christmas Eve, or any chilly evening. Ingredients: • 4 large baking potatoes (I prefer russets) • 1/2 cup each of onion, carrot and celery, chopped • 2/3 cup butter • 2/3 cup all purpose flour • 3/4 tsp. salt
• Freshly ground pepper, to taste • 4 cups whole milk • 2 cups half & half • 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt • Sliced green onions, shredded cheddar cheese and chopped, cooked bacon for topping Instructions: 1. Bake the potatoes in a 350-degree oven for about an hour, or until done. Let them cool.
2. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat; add the onion, carrot and celery, and cook until the onion is translucent. 3. Carefully stir in the flour; continue cooking and stirring for 3 - 4 minutes. 4. Add salt and pepper. 5. Reduce the heat, and carefully pour in milk and half & half. 6. Bring the mixture to a
boil, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 2 minutes. 7. Scoop the potato out of the skins and add to the pot. Heat through. 8. Take the soup off the heat, and stir in the sour cream. 9. Serve immediately with cheese, onion and bacon for topping. The soup reheats well, but you may need to add extra milk.
We’re having what? Christmas dishes from around the world Branson Globe Staff Think everyone has ham or roast turkey for Christmas dinner? Not quite. Here are some fancy fixins’ from around the world. What sounds good to you? France: Oysters Russia: Shashlik - lamb kebabs, marinated for hours in herbs, and then grilled. Barbeque in Russia, in De-
• LEGENDS
Continued from page 1C
ages. Both packages include party favors and a gourmet boxed lunch consisting of croissant sandwich, potato salad, dessert and beverage. Those with the “Preferred Celebration Package” will be seated in rows 1-8 in the center section. For a nominal fee, champagne, beer and wine will be available in the lobby before, during, and after the show. The spectacular Legends in Concert New Year’s Eve Show will begin at 9:30 p.m. Imagine, bringing in the New Year being entertained by “Elvis, Garth Brooks,” “Johnny Cash,” “Brooks and Dunn,” “The Blues Brothers,” the Legends in Concert Dancers, Singers, and Band! “But Wait,” as they would say on TV, “There’s more!” Adele and Michael Jackson will also be performing. Even for Legends in Concert, this will be an extraordinary show culminating in a “Bang” as 2024 is welcomed in “Legendary Style.” For additional information and tickets, call 417-3393003 or visit www.LegendsInConcert.Com/Branson.
cember? Fun. Japan: Party buckets of Kentucky Fried Chicken. Seriously! Australia: BBQ Surf & Turf. Okay, this makes more sense, since it is summer in Australia. Toss some tuna steak, shrimp and kebabs on the barbee! Sweden: Julbord - in otherwords a banquet. Five
courses that must include fish and lots of pickled stuff - like more fish - plus hot dishes and dessert. South Africa: Suckling pig, roasted on a spit. Mmmm. Czech Republic: Snails. Or not. United Kingdom: Brussels Sprouts, carmelized with bacon and butter. Re-
considering the snails. Eastern Europe: Carp, traditionally purchased live, then kept in the family bathtub for a few days, to flush out the nastiness in its digestive tract. I wonder if the family names the fish while it’s swimming in their tub?
3. Spread a thin layer in a 9x13 pan and chill. 4. Then, melt the sugar, butter, miniature marshmallows, evaporated milk and salt. 5. Boil these ingredients for four minutes, stirring constantly. 6. After boiling, add the vanilla, and cherry chips.
Stir well. 7. Spread on chocolate layer and chill. 8. Spread remainder of chocolate mixture on top of cherry mixture. (May have to reheat chocolate mixture to spread it easily.) 9. Chill.
8C • DEC. 22, 2023
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
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‘Tis the season: Three area drive-through displays offer holiday joy with Christmas lights
Promised Land Zoo (Photo by K.D. Michaels) BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer Holiday lighting displays are a favorite tradition in Branson each year. Visitors
and residents alike flock to the drive-through displays to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Christmas season.
Let There Be Lights offers an inclusive drivethrough lighting experience. Two miles of lights are displayed in the 24-acre Promised Land Zoo. Lighting displays range from whimsical and animated to those pointing to the true meaning of the season. Because the display is part of the Promised Land Zoo, the drive offers glimpses of animals lounging near the road. An added bonus is the complementary Candyland
Courtyard, offering photo opportunities and animals on display. You’ll enjoy the Animal Adventure Building with dozens of animals available for viewing. New this year is the baby yak petting zoo, to the delight of both adults and children. Let There Be Lights is open through December 30, from 5 to 11 p.m. The Courtyard is open from 5 to 10 p.m. through the 24th, and Santa is available for photos through December 24. Let There Be Lights is located at 2751 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway at the Promised Land Zoo. Another long-time Branson lighting display is Trail of Lights, the longest running drive-through Christmas Light display in Branson. A Branson staple for 30 years, Trail of Lights is a highlight of the Branson Christmas season. The drive-through features millions of multi-colored lights in animated and themed displays. You’ll enjoy a beautiful drive through the 160-acre Shepherd
of the Hills Homestead, located at 6021 West 76 Country Boulevard in Branson. A new feature this year is Cocoa for a Cause, located in Aunt Mollie’s Mercantile. Enjoy delicious cocoa on the house, and make a donation to one of two local nonprofit organizations— Elevate Branson or Christian Action Ministries. Trail of Lights is open through January 1. Hours are dusk to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and dusk to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The display will close at 9 p.m. on December 31 and January 1. No Branson holiday Christmas experience is complete without a visit to Lights of Joy. This lighting spectacular features sparkling LED lights and new displays annually. Lights of Joy, located on Branson’s Expressway Lane, offers one mile of beautifully fun lights for your holiday pleasure. Santa will also be available for photos on Friday, Saturday and Sunday,
Lights of Joy (Photo by K.D. Michaels) December 22, 23 and 24. Lights of Joy is collecting food for Christian Action Ministries. A donation of three nonperishable food items will save you $3 on the admission price. Visitors are also given a selection of coupons offering large discounts at many popular Branson shows and restaurants. Lights of Joy is located at 700 Expressway Lane in Branson. The drive-through is open daily, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. through January 7, offering residents and visitors an extra week of Christmas lights this year!
Lights of Joy (Photo by K.D. Michaels) GET FREE FOOD, GROCERIES, $10 GAS ON YOUR 1ST VISIT. CALL 417-337-3772
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Promised Land Zoo (Photo by K.D. Michaels)
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MERRY CHRISTMAS!
DEC. 22, 2023 • 9C
Shop with a hero
Just visiting with family
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer Santa Claus himself poses with Branson Police Officer Donathan at the recent Shop with a Hero event. An annual tradition, Shop with a Hero teams local police officers, fire fighters and area heroes with children, helping them pick out special gifts for Christmas. Shop with a Hero is one of the many Holiday Assistance programs sponsored by the local Salvation Army.
Branson Globe photographer George Kurland – sitting on Santa’s lap – takes some time off to visit with one of his relatives at Bass Pro Shop. Hmm...George has a very close family! Actually, George is a retired Santa himself. Yeah...we can see the family resemblance. All of us at the Branson Globe hope you have a great time with family and friends this Christmas! (Special to the Branson Globe)
(Photo by Beth Schulz)
Fun at Children’s Shopping Day at Taneyhills Library Besides completing their Christmas shopping, area kiddos had a great time coloring festive pictures to put on display. K.D. Michaels collected a few of their masterpieces to show Bran-
son Globe readers. Didn’t Ceci, Oliver, Clark, Cooper and Belle do a wonderful job? (These photos by K.D. Michaels)
More photos of area lighting displays Enjoy our area lighting displays in person through the first of 2024. Until then, take a look at the beautiful displays captured by Branson Globe staff writer and photographer, K.D. Michaels. We’ve had a very difficult time getting K.D. to come back into the office... she’s just having too much fun!
10C • DEC. 22, 2023
WORSHIP
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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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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
Eliminate high heating bills with Central Boiler’s NEW, certified Classic Edge Titanium HDX OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE. Call Ozark Stove and Chimney today. 417-201-6585
FREE ESTIMATES AND TIMELY RESPONSE. Full remodels, decks, pole barns, garages, fencing and small projects. Call 417-699-1635.
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.
SHO-ME CLEAN & SHOME FLOORING: Do you have some knowledge of flooring products? Or perhaps have installed flooring? Are you ready to take your experience to another level? Our showroom is the perfect place for you! Inquire at 417-2631963 for more info.
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. 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 417598-3122.
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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 IF YOU ARE A MILITARY VETERAN in need of a place to live, please call us and we’ll try to meet your needs. GUMI CAMP USA 417-559-3892
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. 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!
FOR SALE 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
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 ROOMS FOR RENT Dr., Branson, MO. We look forward to meeting you!! ROOM FOR RENT in HolHOOAH!! lister near C of O. $450/mo. CELEBRATE RECOV- No pets. Call for an interview, ERY is a place to heal from 417-230-3457. your hurts, habits, and han- WEEKLY MOTEL ROOM gups. We meet every Mon- RENTAL: Family friendly. day night at 6:30 PM at Mu- Deposit and rule agreement sic City Centre, 1839 West required. Cable/WiFi, fridge 76 Country Blvd., Branson. and micro included. Colonial For more information call Mountain Inn, Branson West 417–320-2055 See you 417-272-8414. there!
SERVICES OFFERED MASTER ELECTRICIAN. No job too big or small. FREE ESTIMATES. Ph. 417-337-1747.
DEC. 22, 2023 • 11C
HELP WANTED 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. MR. GILBERTI’S PLACE. Now hiring all positions. Fun, working atmosphere. Come in and fill out an application. 1451 Arcadia Club Rd., Hollister.
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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
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WILLING AND AVAILABLE for whatever you need: Grocery – gift shopping, preparing meals, light housekeeping in the Branson area. Great references! Contact me if I can assist you. 719-289-6464.
1 BR STARTING @ $595/MO 2 BR STARTING @ $725/MO Furnished Units, Carports & Lakeviews Available
CALL 417-546-3334 Shepherd of the Hills Estates www.soheapts.com
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12C • DEC. 22, 2023
On this date in history... • 1882 1st string of Christmas tree lights created by Thomas Edison • 1885 Itō Hirobumi, a samurai, becomes the first Prime Minister of Japan • 1963 Official 30-day mourning period for President John F. Kennedy ends • 1965 “Doctor Zhivago” based on the novel by Boris Pasternak, directed by David Lean, and starring Omar Sharif and Julie Christie, premieres in NYC • 1967 “The Graduate”, American comedy-drama film directed by Mike Nichols, starring Dustin Hoffman and Anne Bancroft, premieres (Best Director, 1968) • 1984 Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” single goes #1 for 6 weeks • 1989 After 23 years of dictatorial rule, Romania
FUN & GAMES
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Family Crossword
ousts Communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu • 1990 Lech Wałęsa sworn in as Poland’s 1st popularly elected president • 2010 Repeal of the “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell policy”, a 17-year-old policy banning homosexuals serving openly in the US military, signed into law by President Barack Obama • 2018 Tsunami hits Indo-
nesia’s Sunda Strait killing over 400 after part of the Anak Krakatoa volcano slips into the sea • 2022 “American life expectancy is now at its lowest in nearly two decades” - 76.4 years, according to new report by CDC, biggest factors in the fall among many, COVID-19 and drug overdoses
1950s Christmas Wish List Word find from Beck Museums of Branson
• BARBIE • SLINKY • FRISBEE • PLAY-DOH • POGO STICK • TOY PIANO • CIRCUS SET • TINKERTOYS • SPACE PILOT • CORN POPPER • HULA HOOP • DOLL HOUSE • COLORFORMS • SPINNING TOP • ROCKING HORSE • (TOY) FARM SET • MR. POTATO HEAD • ELECTRIC FOOTBALL • ROY ROGERS OUTFIT • BATTERY OP (OPERATED) CAR
Solution: onlinecrosswords. net/64654 Across 1. Reckless 5. Invites 9. Trimmed the border 14. Skilled 15. Soak through 16. Take off 17. Billiards 18. Mental image 19. Woody or Tim 20. Revered one 21. Brief sleep 22. Speaks 23. Bank transaction 25. Voyaging 26. Discomfort 28. Pierre’s friend 31. Whole 35. Traded goods 38. Actor Roger ____ 39. Eminem’s milieu 40. Shaquille ____ 41. Loan charge 43. Demented 44. Golf prop 45. Get even for 47. Complain 49. As a substitute 54. Decree 57. Chem., e.g. 58. Steak order 59. Lacks 60. Chimney dirt 61. Musician ____ Clapton 62. Desert animal 63. “A ____ of Two Cities” 64. Plus 65. Ham it up 66. Mocked 67. Tinter
Down 1. Fast 2. Residence 3. Cutter 4. Greeting word 5. Ridiculous 6. Tranquilize 7. Retain 8. Exercise club 9. Make ecstatic 10. River mouth 11. Brisk wind 12. Happily ____ after 13. Lions’ lairs 22. Consumer 24. More certain 25. Right away (abbr.) 27. Decrease 28. Territory 29. Malicious 30. Loafing 31. Give forth
32. Zilch 33. Lug 34. Fury 36. Pitches 37. Naval officer (abbr.) 39. Invitation letters 42. Merit 43. Lit 46. Actress ____ Kidman 47. Military student 48. Bride’s path 50. Tire pattern 51. Ahead of time 52. Stand up 53. Room design 54. One time only 55. Paper measure 56. Dealer’s car 57. Detergent 60. Amtrak depot (abbr.)
Sudoku See more fun puzzles at: https://www.puzzles.ca/sudoku/
Last week’s Sudoku solution
PRESENTS...
Look What Santa has in our gift shop...
Classic Neon!
regular price: $299 - $1,699
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