Branson Globe, January 27, 2023

WINTRY SCENE AT BIG CEDAR LODGE (via Branson Chamber/CVB) – A winter storm is expected to bring snow to much of Missouri beginning Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning, affecting Wednesday morning’s commute. Snowfall amounts up to 4 inches have been forecasted for the north and central part of the state with 5 to

possible south of Interstate 44. The Missouri Department of Transportation urges all drivers to be aware of changing road conditions both where

are and where they plan to be. “Crews will be out Tuesday night as the temperatures drop and conditions change from rain to snow,” said Becky Allmeroth, MoDOT’s chief safety and operations officer. “We are expecting a very heavy, wet snow which is great for making snowmen but can make roads very difficult to drive on. If you must be out, adjust your speed to the road conditions.”

New hearing equipment is putting Crane students at ease

Submitted to Branson Globe

Crane School Nurse Sydney Coleman is turning a once intimidating test for young students into a fun, interactive game.

Through a Skaggs Legacy Endowment grant, Coleman purchased a Maico Pilot hearing tester designed specifically for children as young as two years old. She believes the new hearing equipment will help put students at ease when they make one of their first visits to the nurse’s office.

“Preschoolers and kindergartners can get a little nervous when they have to come to my office, so if we have a game to play, it puts them at ease,” Coleman said.

Coleman purchased the new equipment in late 2022 and she’s already put it to use screening some

preschool and kindergarten students. In the past, she used the same tester for the youngest children as she did for the older students. The tester beeped at varying decibels and students would need to indicate to her if they heard it. Now, the students simply slip on a pair of headphones and point to a child-friendly image on a board when they hear the prompt.

Six-year-old Waverlee Chapman said she liked the new testing equipment so much better that she was disappointed she didn’t get to take the test more than once.

“The students don’t see it as a test,” Coleman said. “It’s a game I get to play with them.”

For more information about Skaggs Legacy Endowment grants, visit SkaggsFoundation.org.

Taneyhills Library Retail Stores seeking volunteers

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

Do you have three to four hours a week or more to spare?

If so, consider volunteering at the Taneyhills Library Retail Stores. The Taneyhills Library depends on funds from its onsite Thrift Store and Used Book Store as a source of income to help keep library services available to the community.

In the book store, volunteers are needed to inspect and sort donations.

In the thrift store, volunteers to sort and price merchandise are needed, as well as cashiers to handle purchases.

Cashier shifts typically run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. There are no set hours for sorters and prices, who are invited to work as many hours as they would

like, Monday through Saturday.

“If you are ready to commit or need more information, please call us at 417-334-1418 and ask to speak to our retail manager,” said Library Director Marcia Schemper-Carlock. “Or, email her at tanlibretailmgr@gmail.com. There is also a volunteer form you may fill out on our website, thlibrary.org.”

March 2023 brings 16th annual Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Competition to Branson

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

The 16th annual Branson Elvis Festival is slated for March.

One of a select tribute artist contests sanctioned by Elvis Presley Enterprises Inc., this exciting competition is set for March 24-26.

The fun gets underway on Friday with the Elvis meet and greet at 5:30 p.m., followed by a showing of one of Branson’s favorite productions, Legends in Concert, the area’s premiere tribute show. At 10:30, festival-goers will enjoy a rocking performance by Branson’s own Dean Z as Elvis.

On Saturday, the Elvis Vendor Village gets underway at 9 a.m., the perfect place to find memorabilia, supplies and other things Elvis-related.

At 3 p.m., Elvis Tribute Artist Cody Ray Slaughter of Harrison entertains; at 5 p.m., enjoy the Festival Happy Hour.

At 7 p.m., Elvis—or rather, many Elvises (Elvi?)—take the stage with the semi-finals of the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist competition.

Saturday evening concludes with after-party karaoke fun.

On Sunday, Ryan Pelton brings a

special touch to the festival, with his show “Amazing Grace,” a tribute to the gospel music that Elvis loved.

The highlight of the weekend is the finals of the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Competition, set for Sunday, March 26, at 2 p.m., when the 2023 Elvis Tribute Artist of the Year will be named.

All events are held at the Dick Clark American Bandstand Theater on Branson’s 76 Country Boulevard.

For tickets or more information, call 417-339-3003.

Waverlee Chapman, 6, prepares to take a hearing test with the help of Crane School Nurse Sydney Coleman. (Special to Branson Globe)

GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY SCHEDULED FOR NEW CAREER CENTER – The Reeds Spring School District will break ground on its new career center on Friday, January 27, at 12 p.m. The new building will be located next to Reeds Spring High School, and will replace Gibson Technical Center. The new career center will allow for more students and programs. (Special to Branson Globe)

Be prepared to save a life: Suicide prevention training offered at The Brook

Submitted to Branson Globe

In February, training and classes at The Brook Wellness Center will focus on suicide prevention. Be prepared to assist someone in a crisis situation by attending Suicide Prevention Training on Friday, February 10, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Sponsored by The Brook in partnership with Stone County Health Coalition and the Stone County Health Department, the

training will be available in person at 10726 St. Hwy. 76, Forsyth (Powersite area), or online via Zoom. Participants will learn to use the QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) approach; how to get help for themselves or others to prevent suicide; common causes of suicidal behavior; warning signs of suicide; and how to access help in a crisis. For more information or to request the Zoom Meeting ID and

passcode, email rosie@thebrookwellnesscenter.org or call 417527-8877. You can also request the regular Brook newsletter or follow on social media for valuable information based on each monthly focus topic.

If you or someone you know is experiencing an immediate crisis situation, please call 988 for help from a trained counselor, or chat at 988Lifeline.org.

Marriage Week to be observed February 7 through 14

Submitted to Branson Globe

As Valentine’s Day approaches, it seems fitting to recall the story of St. Valentine, whose greetings sent from prison and signed “from your Valentine” seem to have inspired the day celebrating love in his honor. According to several sources, Valentine was committed to honoring Christian marriage, in part by performing weddings even at the defiance of the Roman Emperor of that era.

In his memory, Valentine’s Day became over time a convenient way to observe the loving devotion between couples have for one another. Now, hundreds of years after St. Valentine lived, we have the opportunity to celebrate National Marriage week February 7 through February 14.

The Bible says in Hebrews 13:4 that “marriage should be honored by all.” One great way local

church leaders can encourage that is by honoring National Marriage Week and taking part in a Pastor’s Proclamation for their local church. Several state governors and several area county commissioners are also planning to sign a proclamation observing National Marriage Week.

The Pastor’s Proclamation isn’t just some churchy piece of paper written out of someone’s imagination or opinion. The proclamation states factual conclusions observed during extensive studies on the importance of marriage in society. The proclamation highlights not only how marriage was the first institution created by God, but also that marriage is the foundation element for all society. Good marriages are the bedrock of strong culture. Strong marriages have healthier, wealthier, stronger families where children thrive, and

Pastor’s Proclamation

Pets of the Week

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

Meet

Kyriah

Our January Pet of the Month

Pastor’s Proclamation: Download a full-sized version from our online version, www.bransonglobe.com

that is worthy of honor. Observing National Marriage Week and having a community leader sign a proclamation like this is certainly a worthy moment in time, and something that can guide not only

ASH is a 5-year-old male, and is pretty shy. Ash doesn’t mind being petted or picked up. We think he’ll come out of his shell in a home with love and patience. He is FIV positive which means he can live a long, healthy life but should be an inside cat and an only cat or live in a home with other FIV cats.

CHARLENE is a 5-year-old female Terrier. She was owner relinquished and is house trained. She is calm and very strong. She loves to have her picture taken and will make a great addition to those Instagram photos.

Kyriah is a sassy cat. She claims the office chair as her sleeping spot and loves to sit on the porch.

www.turtlecreekbranson.com info@turtlecreekbranson.com

BY LINDA PAGE Entertainment Writer

The Branson Centennial Museum is the place to be on the third Tuesday of each month for “Tuesday Talk.” Each month the museum and the White River Valley Historical Society present a program at 12:30 p.m. featuring topics of local and historical interests presented by knowledgeable speakers. The programs usually run about an hour and are free of charge, although donations are appreciated.

The Branson Centennial Museum has a wealth of knowledge in the form of collections, including archives, records of defunct civic organizations, photos, newspaper clippings, clothing and much more. The collections are documented and maintained for future generations. The exhibits are rotated periodically so visitors can enjoy a new experience each time they visit.

Area Entertainment: Tuesday Talk features Boxcar Willie

Last week the Tuesday Talk featured Larry Martin and Lorrie Martin Brown. These twins are the youngest children of Lecil Travis Martin. If you are not familiar with these names, you will remember our favorite hobo “Boxcar Willie.” Lecil Martin was born on September 1, 1931, in Texas and the rest of his life reads like a novel.

In 1985 Boxcar Willie moved to Branson and was one of the first big stars to open a show in Branson. He purchased a theater on Highway 76 and later opened a museum and two motels all bearing his name.

Boxcar Willie performed at his theater in Branson until his death. He was diagnosed with leukemia in 1996, and passed away on April 12, 1999, in Branson.

The Branson Centennial Mu -

seum was filled to capacity last Tuesday to hear his children share stories of their childhood and their father. They both expressed amazement at the number of people who showed up 24 years after their father’s death. Boxcar Willie was a beloved member of this community and is not a character you soon forget.

Larry “Boxcar Willie Jr.” Martin was born along with his twin sister, Lorrie Martin Brown, on September 27, 1969, to parents Lecil and Lloene Martin.

After several moves during their childhood, the twins eventually moved to Branson with their parents, and Larry worked at the theater from opening night as his dad’s lighting and sound technician. After he graduated from Branson High

School, Larry began performing on shows with his dad and was regularly on stage in Branson and across the U.S., Europe and Canada.

After his father’s death, Larry spent about a decade away from the music scene, but eventually donned his father’s coat and hat and started a tribute show to his late father as Boxcar Willie Jr.

Larry and Lorrie still reside in the Branson area.

The program on the third Tuesday in February with feature Mel Tillis. Make plans now to attend.

Larry Martin and Lorrie Martin Brown, Boxcar Willie’s children (Photo by Linda Page)

Dave Says: Remember, you’re a team

First Amendment to the United States Constitution

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

ROB DOHERTY

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

JANET STEINKAMP Editor editor@bransonglobe.com

GARY GROMAN, A.K.A. THE OLE SEAGULL Independent Writer

KIM CHAPPELL Ad Designer gabbydor210@gmail.com

PATTY DOERPINGHAUS

Stone County Account Representative (530) 739-5560 pattyd.ads@gmail.com

MARK FEDER

Taney County Account Representative (805) 320-3746 shotgunart@yahoo.com

TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer tiffanykathleenbrown@gmail.com

KAREN HALFPOP Digital/Production Manager production@ BransonGlobe.com

KD MICHAELS Staff Writer kdmichaelsbranson1@gmail.com

LINDA PAGE Entertainment Writer lpage65@centurytel.net

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

DARYL WEATHER

Weather Forecaster bransonwx@gmail.com

BY DAVE RAMSEY, CEO, Ramsey Solutions, and an

eight-time No. 1 national best-selling author, and host

of The Ramsey Show

Dear

Dave, Earlier this month, my husband and I both were laid off from our jobs within a few days of

each other. The layoffs were not our fault. The company is letting several people go as a cost-cutting measure. We cashed in an annuity because our finances have been tight, but the good news is he began training for a new job last week. We don’t have children, so I am interviewing or filling out applications every day. Should we use the cash from the annuity to live on until things are stable again, or should we use it to pay off debt?

Anjanette Dear Anjanette, If you haven’t done so already,

contact your creditors and explain what happened. Let them know the layoffs weren’t because either of you did anything wrong, and that you’ll get current with them as soon as possible. This is a scary situation you’re facing, so make sure you two keep the lines of communication wide open and encourage each other while you’re solving this problem.

The good news, though, is it sounds like things may be looking up. Support your husband all you can as he takes on his new job, and make sure you continue looking for work, too. A little extra money

never hurts, so temporarily taking on a part-time gig while you’re looking for a permanent position isn’t a bad idea, either.

Of course, you need to be honorable and pay your debts if possible. But that may have to be put on hold for a while. Right now, the important thing is keeping food in the house and the lights and heat on. Hug on each other, stay determined and keep each other’s spirits up. You’re a team, and you’ll get through this.

Always remember, too, that prayer’s a good thing.

— Dave

Stock Market Insights: Overdone

became very familiar with the word “overdone.”

The earnings reporting season has begun; this is when publicly traded companies report their earnings over the last three months. Analysts aren’t expecting a lot of good news this time, but I wonder if the pessimism about 2023 earnings is overdone.

2023 earnings.

LPL Research thinks this year’s earnings won’t be as terrible as many predict. Here are some reasons why they believe it might not be as drastic as some fear:

Hopefully, they are right, and market negativity is overdone. If so, earnings over the next year will beat the pessimistic forecasts making for a good year for stocks by year-end.

https://www.facebook.com/Dr.RichardBaker

I’m not saying my wife was a bad cook when we first married, but I am still gun-shy about ordering blackened chicken. She’s a great cook now, but in 1996 we

Companies are still struggling with slower global growth, increased expenses from inflation (bought any eggs lately?), ongoing supply chain issues, a toostrong U.S. dollar, the Ukraine war, and China being China. These things are the reasons analysts are pessimistic about the

• China’s reopening will help fix the supply chain shortening the time to ship products to stores.

• Companies have had plenty of time to prepare if a recession happens this year.

• Business expenses are improving due to decreasing energy prices and slowing wage increases.

With my wife’s cooking, I learned quickly to keep my opinions to myself and let the situation work itself out, which it did. I think the same is true for earnings this year. But, again, the situation will work itself out. These companies are smart and have a lot of time to prepare.

Have a blessed week! www.FerventWM.com 2760 East Sunshine St. Springfield, MO 65804

The comments on opinion pages are the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily those of Branson Globe, or its staff. Want to weigh-in? Have something to say? Share it with us in your own Letter to the Editor. Letters to the editor that are sent via e-mail and are fewer than 400 words are given preference. Published or unpublished letters become the property of the newspaper and will not be returned. All letters must include name, address, and verifiable phone number.

DR. RICHARD BAKER, AIF®, is the founder of and an executive wealth advisor at Fervent Wealth Management.

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer

I love home décor based on encouraging scripture verses, and judging from the popularity of such items at craft fairs, consignment markets and Hobby Lob-

Reflections: Context is key

by, I’m not the only one. While those verses are great reminders, though, a deeper dive into some of the popular ones reveals that as with many things, context is key.

One that came to mind recently is James 4:7, “Submit to God, resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (NIV). The “resist the devil” part usually makes it onto the wall décor, but the hard part is the submitting. Backing up a few verses gives some areas where the early Church may have had trouble submitting to God, prompting James’s letter; I know I have trouble with some of them. Quarrels, maybe, in v. 1, or coveting, in v.

2? And the one that really hurts is v.3, asking with wrong motives. Ouch. There’s nothing wrong with wanting nice things or an adequate budget, but I need to do better at being aware of the needs of others and using the resources God provides wisely.

Another “Hobby Lobby verse,” so described by author and Bible teacher Jennifer Rothschild because she uses it as the theme of her podcast, is Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through [Christ] who gives me strength” (NIV). Again, looking at the context, Paul refers to his own circumstances. Along with suffering and jail time,

he had experienced times of plenty, but also times of getting by with less. The secret is contentment (v.12), and the ability to be content regardless of circumstances is the background for Paul’s confidence in v.13. I’ve used that verse to encourage myself, especially when it comes to doing something hard a) because I felt like God was prompting me to, and b) whether or not I have an abundance of resources for doing it. Referring to Jennifer Rothschild again, readers may not know she has been blind since her teen years, yet she has a thriving ministry and is content with allowing God to use her dif-

ficult circumstances as a platform for serving others.

I think you get the idea, so allow me just one more example. Jeremiah 29:11 says, “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ says the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” The prophet Jeremiah wrote to the Israelites when they were facing years of Babylonian captivity, allowed by God as a result of their failure to follow him wholeheartedly. Yet God had not forgotten his covenant promises. Claiming this verse doesn’t allow me, or anyone, to SEE REFLECTIONS, PAGE 33

Been Thinkin’ About... These bleak and western woods

mist as a roadside gas station faded to only a glow. The mist is magic — that’s what the old lore tells us — and dangerous passage through the fog can take us to other worlds, sometimes just in our memories.

I’m driving the winter night backroads of Illinois once again.

BY JOSHUA HESTON StateoftheOzarks Media & Design

og rolled thick in the mountain hollows of a January night, slowing traffic to a crawl. Ahead, red taillights disappeared in the

F

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

The 102nd Legislature is underway and members of the House are cautiously optimistic about getting good legislation across the finish line this year.

It is 2008 and I am going home. Silver Dollar City’s long-time penand-ink artist Joe Benjamin had agreed to a winter interview in his home, not in the Ozarks but instead Bowen, Illinois. The day was one of warmth, sunshine, laughter and homemade chocolate cake with va-

nilla ice cream. Leaving late, I saw the sun dip below horizon too soon for my taste. Fog rose thick from moon-white February snow. Bleak hardwoods in the river valleys disappeared along with signs posts, buildings, even towns. The route was reduced to no more than 20 feet of misty yellow lines framing old blacktop. One hundred and twenty-two miles never felt so long.

All this land was once “the great American west,” unbroken hardwood forest of oak and maple, elm and hickory, stretching from Ohio to Missouri. Colonial settlers saw

promise in these lands, exerting monumental effort to hew out a new world with new ideals. Native Americans saw anger, fear and suspicion at the same and for good reason, their cultures often now-remembered only for towns which quietly bear their names.

Those tribes are now gone, removed to a new and different west by eastern policymakers’ far-flung plans. Those settlers are gone as well, remembered only in graveyards with weathered stones and lichen-covered names. But the winter is here again and the cold

winds blow, resurrecting ghosts of the past in this dark night.

It is easy to think our shiny, comfortable modernity erases all that went before it. I believe differently. The love and hope of generations past, the hate and fear, those powerful energies reverberate through time and space like ripples in a still, dark pond. The past, like those ripples, cannot be undone. But if we are quiet in the dark and rolling fog deep in winter’s night, we can hear the past again and learn something eternal in these bleak and western woods.

Capitol Report: First couple of weeks at the Capitol

To start the year, I attended the swearing-in of the 102nd Legislature and 2023 inaugural ball. I had the opportunity to meet with Gov. Mike Parson and his wife Teresa during the festivities. I am hopeful that the Legislature can work with the executive branch to accomplish great things for the people of Missouri this session.

The biggest news concerning myself and the 156th District is that I have been appointed the Chair of the Special Committee on Tourism. I had not been expecting this seat for another couple of years, while leadership saw fit to place me in the position at the be-

ginning of this, my second term as State Representative.

Branson, Missouri, is the primary destination for tourists in the state, as an estimated 21 million people from across the nation, and around the world, visited our live music shows, attractions and stunning lake vistas last year. My position as chairman will allow me to move legislation forward that will benefit the area, and the state as a whole.

Another committee of which I am a member is the Veterans Committee. I had specifically asked for this posting, again because Branson (and Hollister) do so much to welcome veterans to Southwest

Missouri. As a veteran myself, having served as a paratrooper in the Army with the prestigious 82nd Airborne Division, I recognize the needs of those who at one time put their lives on the line in service to our nation. I look forward to hearing and passing legislation that recognizes and honors the service and sacrifice of our veterans.

Leadership also saw fit to place me on the new Healthcare Reform Committee, as well as the Crime Prevention and Public Safety Committee. Last session, I was instrumental in the passage and creation of the law known as “No Patient Left Alone,” which requires

hospitals and long-term care facilities to allow up to two visitors at a time in the room of a patient, even in the midst of a pandemic. Too many people died or received substandard care because they had no advocate or family member in the room to help see to their loved ones’ needs. I look forward to hearing legislation that can have the same sort of benefit this year in the Healthcare Reform Committee.

With Crime Prevention and Public Safety, I can provide pushback against those who would continue the societal decay of lawlessness and harm to others.

BY PAT LAMB Columnist

When children get sick, as they inevitably do, we often ponder about how much to “baby” them or just how to care for them. What mother has not sat by the side of a sick child and thought, “I’d rather it were me feeling that way than my child?” It hurts us emo-

Train Up a Child: When children get sick

tionally while at the same time it is hurting the child physically.

Of course, we try to do all we can to prevent that sickness in the first place. We encourage the children to wash their hands often, singing “Happy Birthday” while scrubbing with soap and warm water to make sure the hands are scrubbed long enough to get clean. We do our best to make sure the child has plenty of fruit and vegetables in the diet to provide the vitamin C and other nutrients needed to fight the germs. We try to see that the child is dressed properly for the cold weather, and we try to keep the child away from places where we know germs are present. In spite of all our care, we often feel at least a little guilt when the child gets sick

as we wonder if we did all we could have done to prevent the illness. There are actually some positive things that come from sickness. One such positive learning is that children come to realize that they are vulnerable. Many young people often feel as though they can do anything and nothing bad will ever happen. Sickness teaches a child that we each need to be careful with how we care for ourselves. A time of sickness in the home can become a time of bonding between family members as all pitch in and help the sick one. The sick child may learn to appreciate the love and care of others. A third benefit is a possible development of sympathy and understanding of others when they become sick. It seems that we can never truly appreciate the feelings of others until we, ourselves, have experienced what they are going through. People who seldom get sick often are impatient with those who do get sick more often.

How much care should be given to a sick child? In my opinion, we need to take advantage of this time to “coddle” the child a bit. There are, of course, occasions when this is not true. If a child starts to take advantage of the extra attention, we need to back off. When a child is truly sick, however, that child needs assurance of love and care. We need a balance of not seeming overly concerned but, at the same time, children need to know that we wish the best for them. To this day, I can remember my mom’s hand on my forehead when, as a child, I would get sick and throw up. I’m sure that hand did no physical good, but it showed that she cared. Another memory is a time when my dad brought a pretty colored ear of corn from the field for me when I had tonsillitis.

Should a child be allowed to watch TV? Yes, but only educational programs. Should a child

do homework? The child should do homework only if he/she is not feeling too badly. I would not force it but would check occasionally to see if he/she feels like it, and then I would give assistance. Should a child be allowed to get up and run around? Generally, we need to allow a child to do what that child feels like doing until the temperature has been normal for at least 24 hours. Then the child probably needs to go back to school. Sometimes, medicine can make a child feel better while he/she is getting worse. This may be the case when medicine is given to treat symptoms only and the medicine does not treat the cause of the symptoms.

We probably will not do everything perfectly when our children get sick. We simply try to give proper physical and emotional care to the best of our ability and pray that the Great Physician will do whatever else is needed.

BY LAURI LEMKE THOMPSON, Columnist

My husband and I agreed it was one of the best compliments either of us had ever received.

It was breakfast time on our cruise ship. The waiters were frantically trying to find everyone a seat, so we took the liberty to ask a couple who was sitting alone, “Hi, would you mind if we joined you?”

Startled, they looked at each other. After an uncomfortably long hesitation, I felt embarrassed and offered, “That’s okay,

Ask questions, listen more, speak less

we can sit elsewhere.” The husband, John, then said, “No, no, sit down, join us.”

Tim and I thoroughly enjoyed coffee and conversation with John and his wife Beth over our bacon and eggs. Getting ready to part ways after eating, Tim politely asked why they had seemed so reluctant.

Arrogant talkers

“We used to share meals with our shipmates and even routinely signed up for a table of six or eight for the evening meal,” John responded. “But we had so many bad experiences with arrogant people who couldn’t stop talking about themselves. We finally decided we can’t take it anymore; we’ll just eat alone.”

We understood, for we had experienced the same, plenty of times. And I’m guessing you have, too. That’s when he gave us that treasured compliment:

“You two listen as well as you talk,” he said. “Thank you for sitting with us.”

For years, I had wanted to become a better listener. John’s comment gave me hope that I was finally succeeding!

We all bump into self-centered conversationalists, don’t we? Tim and I met one a few years ago at a three-day conference. It was day one and we were given a half-hour morning coffee break. We sat down on the comfy lobby furniture with another couple. We discovered some common ground and I thought “Wow, this will be such an enjoyable chat!”

But for this gentleman it was all about him: his stories, his accomplishments, his hometown, his travels, his kids, his service projects. We noted zero curiosity about us – not one question. (And his poor wife couldn’t get a word in edge-wise).

(Part

1 of 2)

More interested in others Guess what we did for the rest of the conference? Avoided him and instead sought out people who demonstrated more humility and less self-absorption.

The keynote speaker that week was Will Graham, a grandson of Billy Graham. He held a Q&A session in which people could ask him questions about memories of his famous grandfather.

“What was he like at home or at family gatherings?” Will was asked.

He immediately responded: “He didn’t say much. He was actually very quiet.” I think we were all surprised: this renowned preacher who addressed thou-

sands upon thousands with that booming voice in huge stadiums around the world was quiet at home?

“If he was talking with you,” Will continued, “He always wanted to hear about you. How have you been? What have you been doing? And then he would just listen.”

I thought: What a contrast to the man we had just spent time with outside that very meeting room!

Watch for Part 2 of this series on becoming a better listener.

College of the Ozarks attractions to offer Area Appreciation

Submitted to Branson Globe

• The Keeter Center Area Appreciation through Feb. 5

The Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks will offer Area Appreciation through Feb. 5 as a thankyou to the residents of the TriLakes area community — Barry, Stone, Boone, and Taney counties. Visit during this time to save 25 percent on fine dining at Dobyns Dining Room, sweets and specialty coffees from the bakery, and homemade ice cream from Nettie

Marie’s College Creamery. Present ID for discount.

The Keeter Center — the College’s award-winning lodge, restaurant, and conference facility — has consistently been ranked a Top Small Hotel in the U.S. by TripAdvisor. It features historic lodging, fine dining and meeting rooms. With more than 350 student workers, it is the largest workstation on campus.

Reservations are recommended and can be made online at www.

keetercenter.edu or by calling 417690-2146.

• Ralph Foster Museum Area Appreciation through Feb. 7

The Ralph Foster Museum at College of the Ozarks will offer free admission during Area Appreciation through Feb. 7, 2023. The offer is available to those living in Stone, Taney and Boone Counties. Present ID for discount at time of ticket purchase.

The Museum is open to the public every Tuesday through Satur-

day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Dedicated to the history of the Ozarks region and named in honor of radio pioneer and philanthropist Ralph D. Foster, the Ralph Foster Museum is a three-story gallery housing thousands of objects representing archaeology, history, firearms, antiques, natural history, fine arts, geology and mineralogy. The museum also houses the Beverly Hillbillies car and has one of the Midwest’s finest firearms collections.

Reader’s Corner: As 2023 begins, enjoy a virtual trip to Africa at Kimberling Area Library

By CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer

Start 2023 off with a vicarious trip to Africa, courtesy of Kimberling Area Library! On Wednesday, February 8, plan to attend “Traveling to Kenya, Africa: Dental Volunteerism and Tourism” by Mon-

ica Mueller of the Stone County Health Department.

Mueller worked in the Massai Dental Clinic during June 2022, as part of a WHO initiative. She was then able to extend her travels to visit an animal preserve, a public school, various sites in Kenya,

and several small villages where she learned about the country’s culture, customs and healthcare practices.

The program will begin at 10:15 a.m. in the Library Community Room and is part of the KAL “Learning on Wednesdays” series. Coffee and light snacks are provided; no prior registration is required, and attendance is free.

Learn more about upcoming Kimberling Area Library programs and events at www.kalib.org.

Area Appreciation is offered at the Keeter Center. (Special to Branson Globe)

BY KRISTINA ELLIS, Ramsey Network personality, and expert on college finance and graduating debt-free.

We often think of the new year as a fresh start, but one obstacle that’s still lingering in the background for so many is the burden of student loan debt. The good news is that you don’t

Student loan payments postponed...again

have to carry that burden forever, and you don’t have to do it alone.

With 2023 officially upon us, now’s the perfect time to adjust your money mindset. Let’s review what happened with student loans in 2022, look ahead at what’s coming in 2023, and talk about what you can do this year to work toward being debt-free, regardless of what the government throws our way.

President Biden first announced his student loan forgiveness plan in August 2022, offering to cancel up to $20K of student loan debt for millions of Americans. For those burdened by the weight of student loans— some who have been paying

them off for decades—this plan felt like a comforting sigh of relief after a difficult two years of the pandemic. Others were concerned by this news, wondering how our country could afford to forgive loans considering our national debt that’s soared to over $31 trillion. In response, Republican leaders challenged Biden’s proposal with a lawsuit, which will go to the Supreme Court on February 28, 2023.

With all the controversial back-and-forth, this topic can feel confusing, disheartening and exhausting. But the truth is, no one knows exactly how this situation will resolve. What we do know is that you don’t have to wait on the government to get rid of your student loans. Yes, the student loan crisis in America is overwhelming—and at times, can even feel unfair—but there are action steps you can take

right now to set yourself up for future financial success.

Here’s what we know for sure and what you can do to make real progress during the uncertainty: 1. The student loan pause has been extended . . . again. Student loan payments were put on hold in March 2020 in an effort to provide financial relief during the pandemic. Repayment was supposed to begin again in September 2020, but the freeze has been extended multiple times by both former President Trump and President Biden.

2. The extension has an end in sight. Although some people are starting to expect this pattern of extensions to continue, an actual deadline has officially emerged. Now, if Biden’s plan to forgive loans has not been enacted by June

30, 2023, loan payments will resume 60 days later (around September 2023). But keep in mind, this will still follow more than 40 months of interest-free relief for borrowers.

3. Now’s the best time to get ahead on payments. One helpful part of this waiting period is the continued break from interest payments. And because you don’t have to make payments right now, it may feel tempting to delay paying off your student loans while lawmakers sort out their disagreements. But the reality is, now is the best time to make payments and keep your momentum going. Think about how much progress you can make on

SEE KRISTINA ELLIS, PAGE 22

School of the Ozarks Professor of History Abbey Vogt receives Out of This World Teacher Award

Submitted to Branson Globe

Dr. Abbey Vogt has been selected as the January Central Bank/KRZK Out of This World Teacher of the Month for January 2023. This award is given to a teacher from Taney or Stone County who demonstrates excellence in the classroom and has been nominated by their students or their peers.

Vogt has been a professor at School of the Ozarks for 11 years and a teacher for 24 years. Every day, she approaches her classroom with a joyful spirit and a heart to teach her students about the history of country and world.

“I just enjoy teaching about

history. It is ultimately God’s story and the fact that I get to help others learn and enjoy it is a blessing,” Vogt said.

Dr. Brad Dolloff, dean of School of the Ozarks, remarked about Vogt. “I am so pleased that Dr. Abbey Vogt is being recognized with this honor. She is an amazing teacher who truly cares for each of her students and finds a way to immerse them in history, enabling them to learn lessons from our past they can apply to our present and future. It is a blessing when others notice what an outstanding educator Dr. Vogt is!”

Nominations are made on the Legends 1063 website at https:// www.legends1063.fm/promotions/out-of-this-world-teacher1/

and evaluated by a panel of employees. The winner receives a basket of goodies and classroom materials from Central Bank, the primary sponsor.

Brandi Beebe, VP and Marketing Director of Central Bank, reflected on the excitement Central Bank experiences when presenting this award.

“We are excited to present this award to Dr. Vogt, as this is the first one at School of the Ozarks. We love awarding all of our local teachers and recognizing them for their hard work with our future leaders. She is very much deserving of this award, and we sincerely appreciate her being impactful to our community! We encourage all students and faculty to nominate their favorite

teachers to possibly have them join Dr. Vogt in the ranks of the Central Bank Out Of This World Teacher winners.”

Winners also receive a plaque to commemorate their title, vouchers to local businesses, and $75 to Teachers Pay Teachers for classroom supplies. Addition-

ally, the winner is invited to be featured on The Upside Morning Show with Josh Clark to receive their prizes and allow the community to hear their story. Vogt is scheduled to be featured on Jan. 25 and will receive her awards at the time of the interview.

School of the Ozarks History Professor Abbey Vogt (Special to Branson Globe)

Submitted to Branson Globe

Incoming freshmen at College of the Ozarks experienced Character Camp, a week-long orientation, from Jan. 2-8.

Character Camp provides an intensive orientation to the College and outlines what is expected of students. The program is designed to develop character in

College of the Ozarks hosts Character Camp for spring 2023 incoming class

students and provides new students with a built-in support system that helps them navigate their college experience.

During the week, 104 incoming students were placed into 12 groups called “families.” Each family was led by two upperclassmen who model the character expected of a C of O student. These “Moms and Pops” served as leaders and mentors to the “kids” in their families throughout the week.

“Being a Character Camp mom has been one of my favorite parts of C of O,” said junior public relations major Esther Rea. “I love being able to introduce new freshmen to our campus, pour into them individually, and then be a resource and friend during their time here. The week is full of fun activities that create lifelong memories!”

During Character Camp, students also participated in community service projects across campus, including scrubbing milk equipment at the dairy, mopping residence hall floors, and deep cleaning the new engineering building.

“Community service projects during Character Camp are important because they cultivate an atmosphere of community, focused on selfless servant-leadership,” said junior Shelomi Miner.

“The projects are not the actual mission of community service but rather the means by which the greater mission of reflecting Christ through kingdom-minded words and actions can be more clearly revealed.”

Miner, a double major in exercise science and biblical and theological studies as well as a minor

in business administration, was a Character Camp Pop this spring.

Character Camp also included activities such as special speakers, chapel services, “family” time, advisor time, an end-of-theweek banquet, and a challenge course where students learned the value of teamwork.

Each incoming student wrote a “Reflections on Christ-like Character” essay. The essay is a requirement for students and is evaluated by various members of the College. Essays are judged on relevance, clarity, depth and accuracy.

Throughout this coming semester, the “families” will reunite three different times to discuss progress, and the “Moms and Pops” will encourage the incoming students by walking alongside of them in this new chapter of life. One of these “family” reunions will involve another community service project.

Character Camp participants (Special to Branson Globe)

v isitor BRANSON

Channel 5

All Missourians ought to have the ability to walk safely down neighborhood streets knowing that they and their homes are secure, and that law enforcement is respected. I will vote against all legislation that comes before this committee seeking to “defund the police” and I will always Back the Blue.

Recently, Vivek Malek was sworn-in as the 48th Missouri State Treasurer. Malek said at the ceremony, “As a strong fiscal conservative, my approach centers

on what I call the Three Ps: First: PROTECT taxpayers money.

Second: PROVIDE the opportunity for growth. And Third: PROMOTE the Promise of America.” We have met on numerous occasions and I look forward to working with the new State Treasurer.

To date, I am running 15 bills and House Joint Resolutions, this session. Often described as the “Pitbull” of the House, I will work ferociously to see to the needs of our district and the state as a whole. We in the House of Representatives should speak with YOUR voice, and I will make sure that is remembered every day.

Some of the bills that I am sponsoring include House Bill 172 that calls for free breakfast and/ or lunch for all Missouri Public School children. We saw this program have success during the recent pandemic and due to a budget surplus, along with a federal/state partnership, we can do it again, giving more families greater disposable income and ensuring that no student goes through the school day hungry.

House Bill 169 establishes the Missouri Entertainment Industry Investment Act. This legislation would bring new industry into

Young’s Lakeside Tire & Wheel: The benefits of tire pressure monitoring system

ADVERTISEMENT – Your vehicle’s Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) continuously monitors the air pressure in your tires. When there is an instance of low tire pressure, or if the tire pressure drops below the manufacturer’s recommended level of tire pressure, the TPMS will detect and report the discrepancy by illuminating an indicator light on the dashboard of your vehicle.

When the TPMS light flashes on the dashboard, you should check your tire pressure, inflate the affected tire to the level indicated by the manufacturer, or bring your vehicle into our shop so that the issue can be remedied by our expert staff.

During a TPMS maintenance

service, our service staff will run a series of tests to ensure that the system is operating both correctly and at maximum efficiency. If our technicians uncover damage to the system or its accompanying components, they may need to replace valve cores, valve nuts, seals, seal

washers, or valve caps. If you are in need of TPMS repairs, maintenance, or replacement services, or if you are in need of a TPMS installation service, then contact us today, 417-334-8473. We are located at 947 E. State Hwy. 76 in Branson.

the state, encouraging production and postproduction of movies, TV shows and other forms of entertainment to be created in the state of Missouri. This legislation would not cost the state one penny and could provide millions in new revenue.

House Bill 367 establishes provisions relating to civil actions for vulnerable victims of sexual abuse. It would increase the statute of limitations, allowing for victims to hold perpetrators to account. This has been an issue, even in the 156th District, that needs to be

rectified. We must protect our children and vulnerable citizens from sexual abuse and defend their right to have their day in court confronting their abuser.

That’s it for this week, but look out for more bill updates and legislative highlights in my next Capitol report.

Need to contact my office? Please call my office at 573-7511309 if we can ever be of assistance to you or stop by our office in Jefferson City in Room 118. I or my legislator assistant Perla Lauderdale are happy to help.

your balance while interest is out of the equation.

You don’t have to depend on the government to bail you out of debt. It’s never wise to wait around on Washington to fix your finances. Instead, embrace the tortoise mentality and keep a slow but steady pace. If you’ll be disciplined and commit to the process, you can press on (right now with no interest!) toward your goal of paying off debt. I’ve seen thousands of people get there, and you can too.

When it comes to the student loan crisis, there are endless opinions to sort through. But no matter where you fall in the wide range of perspectives, you can be sure about one truth that remains the same: Politicians don’t give you

the life you want. You do. And whether you’re months or years into paying off your student loans, don’t give up. Channel all your energy into getting rid of as much of that debt as you can while it’s interest-free. When September comes, you’ll be impressed by all the progress you’ve made.

And if you’re a current high school student watching this debate play out, let it be a caution to you. Avoid the long-term burden of student loan debt. There are countless ways to save money and win scholarships—it just takes some strategy and discipline right now to experience freedom on the other side of your degree.

For more tips on paying for school with zero debt, check out the article, “How to apply for scholarships” at this link, https://www. ramseysolutions.com/saving/howto-find-scholarships.

• KRISTINA ELLIS

Hollister High School announces second quarter A/B Honor Roll

Hollister High School has announced students who earned A Honor Roll and B Honor Roll recognition for the second quarter of the 20222023 school year.

A Honor Roll students

Freshmen students on the A Honor Roll include Emalee Anderson, Allie Archibeque, Hope Bangma, Mickayla Benzen, Kami Blankenship, Parker Brotherton, Madison Dilday, Madelyn Dimetroff, Eleanor Ford, Ella Green, Sidney Grogan, William Hasler, Samantha Herrera-Rivas, Macie Laird, Molly McAfee, Nichole Moore, Hailey Perryman, Claytyn Peterson, Lola Smith, Mia Tepen, Wesley Tepen and Addison Wilson.

Sophomores include Abigail Anderson, Candace Benedicto, Orrin Bluto, Rachel Cummings, Bridgette Edwards, Dale Erickson, Hailey Fiedler,

Madison Harrison, Kate Heard, David Honey, Luke Jackson, Ethan Leblanc, Lucas Nelson, Maya Retasket, Cade Shimon, Lauren Tiefry, Harley Viall and Kendra Wilson.

Juniors are Isaac Bebee, Taylor Brown, Isabella Dopko, Kylie Escobar, Kelly Garceau, Emily Lehman, Ella McKinsey, Carlie Morgaridge, Kat Schaefer, Faith Willis, and Olivia Williams.

Seniors on the A Honor Roll include Caleb Creger, Jordan Davis, Ronald Daniels, Kassidy DeVore, Evan Diaz, Stephany Espino, Macy Everett, Avery Fulkerson, Devon Girard, Carson Haefeker, McKenzie Hamilton, Neka Holmes, Erin Hunter, Christopher Jennings, Gracie Jennings, Ethan Jimenez, Ayden Kimmel, Camden Kyrsl, Mykayla McGeough, Keegan Ponder, Jazmin Rodriguez-Galvan, Day-

lan Schwyhart, Garrett Snyder, Renee Sutton, Samuel Teaster, Amis Warlick, Silas Woodbury and Ethan Wright. B Honor Roll students

Freshmen students on the B Honor Roll include Madeline Blackwood, William Browning, Shaila Canela, Isabella Cantrell, Tyler Carpenter, Adelyn Collier, Michael Cox, Layton Donahew, Kilean Dredge, Gloria Flores-Ramirez, Canyon Frazier, Sadie Gomez, Roman Halbrook, Isaiah Hampton, Johnathan Henderson-Haltom, Chance Hreha, Jadyn Hunt, Shareka James, Connor Johnson, Gracyn Jones, Kylie Kirk, Calvin Lamoureaux, Brandon Miranda, Jaelyn Mone, Nathaniel Raine, Maureen Robinson, Desirae Russell, Autumn Thomley, Braden Williams and Easton Woods.

Sophomores include Skye Banks,

Eliana Blitch, Blake Brasser, Emily Burton, Aidan Connell, Jordin Escalante, Julia Gardner-Pickens, Grace Getman, Hannah Hebert, Aerial Hreha, Paige Hurley, Kassidy Johnson, Dylan Jones, Isabelle King, Arabella Macklin, Andrea Martinez, Emily Menter, Isabelle Parrish, Gibsyn Penny, Dakota Oster, Hannah Ponder, Sherielys Rivera-Lopez, Benjamin Stevens, Chelsea Urich, Addison White, Kassie Wilson and Miranda Woolstrum.

Juniors are Josie Arp, Chris Beauchamp, Isabella Blackwood, Anneliese Camp, Jonah Charlton, Sarah Dearman, Dominic Edmonds, Kylie Escobar, Gracyn Franks, Jaidyn Girdley, Kristi Golightly, Eric Gregory, Jesse Gross, Jack Jackson, Tyler Kirk, Jayke Lebsock, Katherine Linn, Jose Martinez, Hannah McCarter, Zoey Nuss, Winter Plomb, Keelie Purkett, Noah

Richardson, Chaylen Russell, Kaenan Shofner, Kingsley Tiefry-Morlang, Tyra Weiss and Tyler Williams.

Seniors on the B Honor Roll include Lyndsey Barnett, Gabriel Bean, Dawson Bethell, Dominick Bourque, Jordan Brand, Paisley Brotherton, Luke Calovich, Alisha Canela, Michael Collins, Jacob Creger, Ryland Franks, Zachary Friend, Brisa Gere, Hailey Green, Angel Hammond, Gabrielle Hebert, Malachi Henry, Cristina Hernandez, Boston Huck, Lindsey Jackson, Kortnie Johnson, Donald Jones, Kaylee Kellogg, Dylan Kinchen, Joel Nunez, Zackery Nuss, Dylan O’Rourke, Karsten Olson, Marlene Perez, Madison Pinson, Blake Russell, Jacob Rylott, Kaitlyn Saint, Nikki Secrest, Kyden Snyder, Carter Southern, Jordan Turner and Aden Woods.

Southern Missouri Arts Connection board member featured by state arts council

Submitted to Branson Globe

Artist Lynnette Horn, board secretary for the Southern Missouri Arts Connection (SMAC), has been selected to be one of four Missouri Arts Council’s (MAC)

featured artists for January. The feature appears on MAC’s website, www.missouriartscouncil. org. MAC Communications Director Barbara McRobie said, “We create Facebook posts

throughout the month highlighting our featured artists.” MAC also sends emails with additional information about the artists to their entire list of subscribers.

“When I received the call, that I was chosen to be featured, I was totally surprised,” Horn said. “This is the second month in a row that a SMAC board member has been chosen for this honor. SMAC board vice president and local muralist Christine Riutzel was chosen for December 2022. “This is such an honor,” Horn

explained. “The artists are chosen from all branches of the arts, not just visual arts.” Those chosen demonstrate a high level of skill in their particular field of art. “Usually these featured spots go to artists in the larger cities where there is a higher number of artists per capita,” Horn explained. “So, I’m especially excited to show the rest of the state that art is alive and well in Southern Missouri.

Southern Missouri Arts Connection (SMAC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit local center of creativ-

ity, art education, innovation, and community partnership, strives to improve the quality of life in Southern Missouri by connecting individuals with the arts, for the benefit of all.

Artist Lynnette Horn at her easel (Special to Branson Globe)

USACE seeks public input on revised McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River master plan

Submitted to Branson Globe

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking public input on the draft MKARNS Master Plan and Environmental Assessment. Public comment for the draft MP and EA will be held between Jan. 16 and March 2. USACE will hold three public in-person workshops to explain the draft MP and EA. All interested persons are invited.

The workshops are scheduled from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Jan. 30 at the Russellville Site Office, 1598 Lock and Dam Road, Russellville, AR; from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Jan. 31 at the Faith Baptist Church, 5600 Camp Robinson Rd., North Little Rock, AR; and from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Feb. 2 at the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Delta Rivers Nature Center, 1400 Black Dog Dr., Pine Bluff, AR.

Those interested are encouraged to stop by at any time during the scheduled workshops. USACE representatives will be available to answer questions and maps will be shown to provide

an overview of the revision. This will be the final public outreach engagement for the MKARNS MP revision process before the MP revision is complete.

USACE master plans set the vision for all use and development of a project’s federal public lands and waters surrounding our waterways. They recognize the ongoing activities of others in the watershed, specifically environmental stewardship, and recreation.

Comments will be accepted during the in-person workshops. Comments can also be mailed to the MKARNS MP Planner, Natural Resources Management Section, USACE Little Rock District, P.O. Box 867, Little Rock, AR 72203 or e-mailed to CESWL-MKARNSMasterPlanRevision@usace.army.mil before March 2.

For an online fillable comment card and to learn more about the MKARNS MP Revision, visit our website at https://go.usa.gov/ xHvp3.

Branson/Tri-Lakes education briefs: Our area schools are awesome!

Branson High School Theatre Department

News

Branson High School theatre students from Troupe 3482 attended the 2023 Missouri Thespian

State Conference held in Kansas City. Students participated in workshops, competed in events, and auditioned for scholarships.

Troupe 3482 is led by Theatre Teacher, Erin Moody. “The stu-

dents did an amazing job representing our school and community,” says Moody.

The following students received superior ratings and have qualified to compete at the national lev-

el this summer: Tatym Gettling, Angelica Maddelina, Savannah Turner, Talya Tinoco, Chloe Cofer and Sean Osmond. For their technical skills in costumes and stage management, Lydia Woodmansee, Amber Parsons and Paden Higgins received high ratings.

Jaxon Cottom, Loreli Morrison, Antoinette St. John and Amber Parsons auditioned and interviewed for a variety of colleges to receive callbacks and potential scholarships. The improv team, “Rad Dads,” consisting of Jaxon Cottom, Sydney Pride, Ava McDonald, Annika Arjes and Cam-

eron Boss competed and received excellent ratings from their judges. “I’m thankful for this group of creative artists,” says Moody.

The Performing Arts Department now turns their focus to the spring musical. Mark your calendars and bring the entire family to “Mamma Mia!” Show dates are February 9 and February 10 at 7 p.m.; and February 11 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Tickets are $8 for students and $10 for adults. To reserve tickets for this classic musical comedy, call 417-334-6511 ext. 5013 or email bhstheatre@branson.k12.mo.us.

Branson Public Schools invite parents to tour Cedar Ridge Primary Preschool

Branson Public Schools is pleased to announce spring tours of Cedar Ridge Primary Preschool for parents and guardians. The tours will take place at 10 a.m.

BHS theatre students (Special to Branson Globe)

on January 31, February 16 and March 20, and will give families an opportunity to see the school, meet teachers and administrators, and learn about the curriculum and programs offered at the preschool.

Cedar Ridge Primary houses preschool and kindergarten students and is dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment where children can learn and grow. The school offers a variety of programs and activities, including language development, math and science, and social and emotional development. The teachers at Cedar Ridge Primary Preschool are highly qualified and dedicated to helping each child reach their full potential.

During the tour, parents will be able to visit classrooms, meet Cedar Ridge Primary Principal, Carol Furman, and ask questions about the school and its programs.

“We want to ensure that all fam-

ilies have the information they need to make the best decisions for their child,” says Furman.

Parents and guardians of all children living within the Branson R-IV School District who are eligible for preschool during the 2023-2024 school year are invited to tour Cedar Ridge Primary. There is no need to RSVP. For more information, please contact 417-336-1887.

Gibson Tech recognizes more outstanding students

Gibson Technical Center typically recognizes two students every month for their outstanding achievements. However, staff members felt that more students were deserving, so they added two more.

Angel Dowdy is a senior who attends Reeds Spring High School. She is enrolled in GTC’s EMT program and plants to attend North Ark to become a paramedic.

Dylan Schmitt attends Branson High School and is also enrolled in the EMT program.

Hollister Talent Show winners

The Hollister R-V School District Talent Show took place for the first time since COVID on Friday, January 13. The show, featuring a variety of talents, was open to students from kindergarten through 12th grade.

While the competition was tough, the audience of approx-

imately 200 people was able to name their People’s Choice Award Champions. Singing “Car Radio” by 21 Pilots, Chance Nobles (4th grade) was named by the people as champion for the early childhood and elementary division. In the middle and high

school division singing “Bang!” by AJR, Bennett Stamoulis (eighth grade) earned the top spot.

The show ended with a special performance by the Hollister High School Blue Harmony

Dowdy (Special to Branson Globe)

Nobles (Special to Branson Globe) Stamoulis (Special to Branson Globe)

SCHOOLS

Show Choir and their show “See Me in a Crown.”

Hollister’s Silas Woodbury signs with Columbia College

Hollister High School senior Silas Woodbury signed his Letter of Intent to continue his education and athletic career in track and field at Columbia College.

Columbia College competes in the American Midwest Confer-

ence, affiliated with the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). Hollister’s Sam Teaster signs with C of O

ognized include: Levi Tarvin, Christalynn Gazaway, Eli Watson, Zaden Irvin, Jaxton Winfrey, and Mary Plaster.

Third grade students recognized include: Everley Dibas, Agnes Craven, Colter Kite, Cohen Deckard, and Paxon Clopton.

Fourth grade students recognized include: Delaney Patton, Joseph Tillman, Caroline Fletcher, Kiersten Kincaid, Olyvia Huff, and Logan Thompson.

Hollister High School senior Sam Teaster signed his letter of intent to continue his education and athletic career in baseball at College of the Ozarks.

C of O competes in the NCCAA National Christian College Athletic Association Division I. Reeds Spring Elementary School Character Students of the Month named

Second grade students rec-

Reeds Spring Middle School names Students of the Month for December, January

Reeds Spring High School names Students of the Month for December

For December, left to right: Faith Schoenborn, Ciaran Broomfield, Colbie Cypret, Gabe Miller (Special

Successful tournaments for Wolves basketball and wrestling teams

The Reeds Spring High School basketball and wrestling teams all competed in tournaments last week. The boys basketball team finished third in the Spokane Tournament. In the opening round, the Wolves beat Southwest 45-39. In the semifinal game, the Wolves lost to top-seeded Ash Grove 44-40. Taylor Calzaretta had 14 points. In the third-place game, Reeds Spring beat Blue Eye 50-38.

Girls basketball

The girls basketball team competed in the Galena Tournament. After losing the opening round game to Fordland 42-34 in overtime, the Lady Wolves beat Hurley 54-49 in overtime to advance to the consolation bracket championship. In that game, RSHS beat Southwest 47-35 to earn fifth place.

Wrestling

The RSHS wrestlers competed in the Big 8 Conference Tournament. For the boys, Shane Pearson won the 113-pound weight class and Eben Crain finished second at 285 pounds. For the girls, Blaiklee Cagle finished second at 170 pounds.

Woodbury, second from right, with his family (Special to Branson Globe)

Left to right: Aidan Broomfield, Matthew Maher, A.J. Johnson, and Jayla Murphy (Special to Branson Globe)

Blue Harmony Singers (Special to Branson Globe)

Teaster, middle, with his parents (Special to Branson Globe)

to Branson Globe)

For January, left to right: Gabby Gill, Jayden Witt, Brennan Bilberry, James Waldron (Special to Branson Globe)

Reeds Spring School Foundation awards dual-credit scholarships

Nine high school students earned dual-credit scholarships from the Reeds Spring School Foundation. The recipients are Emilee Dees, Olivia Giebler, Madison Langston, Thomas McGuane, Marrin McKoy, Elizabeth

Parrish, Shane Pearson, Madeline Peck and Madison Sieg.

The scholarships cover the tuition of the dual-credit classes, up to $500. Dual-credit courses allow students to earn both high school and college credits. This gives students a head start on college and helps save them money because dual-credit courses at Reeds Spring High School cost much less than a regular college course. Reeds Spring High School offers 11 dual-credit courses.

The Reeds Spring School Foundation’s mission is to promote and enhance excellence in education and student success by providing financial support for scholarships, student enrichment opportunities, and unique classroom experiences.

Bottom row (left to right): Elizabeth Parrish, Madison Sieg, Emilee Dees, Olivia Giebler, Thomas McGuane; Top row (left to right): Marrin McKoy, Madison Langston, Shane Pearson, Madeline Peck. (Special to Branson Globe)

Pearson, center (Special to Branson Globe)

Wonders of Wildlife rings in the new year with sea turtle rescue

Submitted to Branson Globe

Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium (WOW) opened its doors—and waters—to its third group of loggerhead sea turtles facing life-threatening conditions. Ten cold-stunned sea turtles made the journey from the Northeast to the Midwest to receive critical care and long-term rehabilitation. The ten cold-stunned turtles arrived January 2 by private aircraft on a rescue flight coordinated by the nonprofit organization, Turtles Fly Too, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The rescued loggerheads flew from the New England Aquarium in Massachusetts to Springfield, Missouri, where they were met by an expert animal care team from WOW and transported to the Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Center.

The loggerhead sea turtles were stranded on the coast near Cape Cod after experiencing “cold stunning.” This condition occurs when water temperatures rapidly decline, and sea turtles are unable to move to warmer waters. Because loggerheads are cold-blooded reptiles that depend on their surroundings to maintain body temperature, this dramatic change causes them to suffer from a form of hypothermia called cold stunning. Leaving the turtles lethargic and unable to secure food and fend for themselves, cold stunning is fatal if the animals are not rescued. This season the Northeast has already seen almost 1,000 cold stuns wash ashore needing help – making it the third largest number of sea turtles found stranded on record out of the Northeastern United States.

Named America’s Best Aquarium by the readers of USA Today for a fourth time in 2022 and recently accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), Wonders of Wildlife will provide the loggerhead turtles with critical medical care and long-term reha-

bilitation before releasing them back into their natural habitats.

The cold-stunned sea turtle’s length of stay at their temporary home depends on their eating behaviors and activity but typically will be released back to the ocean around 12 weeks. All seven sea turtle species are on the endangered species list, including loggerheads – making WOW’s commitment to rehabilitation even more important. With the complexity of their life cycle, only 1 in 1,000 hatchlings that make it to the ocean will survive to adulthood. It is vital to the future of their species to return as many sea turtles as possible back to the wild population. They are an essential part of marine ecosystems worldwide and are at great risk due to water temperature changes and other environmental factors.

“WOW is honored to once again be helping cold stunned sea turtles,” said Mike Daniel, Director of Animal Care at Wonders of Wildlife. “Sea turtles are a keystone species in the ocean and are vital to the longterm health of that ecosystem. Turtles

Wonders of Wildlife’s expert animal care team and volunteers awaiting sea turtle arrival. From left to right: Deborah Pears (registrar), Olivia Rose (lead keeper), Mike Daniel (director of animal care), Chelsea Higgins (veterinary assistant), Marc Wittmer (volunteer) and Phillip Faulkner (volunteer). (Special to Branson Globe)

have many jobs in the wild – from gardeners that tend the sea grass beds and prevent overgrowth, care takers of coral reefs eating sponges that could harm corals, and are vehicles for dozens of species like barnacles, crabs and algae that travel on their backs to different parts of the world where they breed and thrive. Sea turtles are also pivotal to the health of beaches and sea oats that utilize the nutrients from old nests to grow and prevent erosion. Due to their size, loggerheads are harder to place, and WOW is

one of the few facilities that has enough space to care for them. This makes Wonders of Wildlife the only rescue, rehabilitation, and release center in the Midwest and allows WOW to educate guests on these endangered animals and the importance of protecting them. These rescue sea turtles are not open for public display. However, guests can visit our two resident green sea turtles on display in the Open Ocean exhibit at WOW.

WOW’s Life Sciences and Veterinary teams immediately begin their work by developing care and treatment plans that are custom-

ized for each turtle based on its particular needs. Each animal is monitored around the clock and carefully fed, measured and assessed. Key components include gradually warming the animals back to a stable body temperature and ensuring they can eat and swim normally. Care is administered with the goal that each of

the turtles will make a full recovery and be safely released back into the wild. For the caretakers at WOW Sea Turtle Rescue Center, the sense of excitement and responsibility are at an all-time high.

“For our team to have a hand in the rehabilitation and future release back into the wild of these animals means so much to us,”

Daniel said. “We want to do everything we can to make sure that we don’t lose these amazing animals from the world’s oceans!”

To further generate awareness for endangered sea turtle populations, WOW has partnered with local Springfield brewery, Mother’s Brewing Company, to create a

lager that benefits conservation efforts. Izzy Lager is fondly named after one of WOW’s green sea turtles who suffered injuries in the wild and has been rehabilitated at the aquarium. Proceeds from the exclusive brew will be donated to conservation efforts and is avail-

able for purchase at the following properties:

• Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium

• Dogwood Canyon Nature Park

• Top of the Rock’s Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail

• Mother’s Brewing Company

• Big Cedar Lodge

• Finley Farms

• Hemingway’s Blue Water Café

• White River Fish House

“By partnering with one of our favorite local breweries to introduce the Izzy Lager, we are working to inform and educate the public of our conservation efforts and the unique challenges sea turtles face. With each of our key wildlife initiatives, our goal is to inspire future conservationists” said Bryan Nadeau, Vice President of The

Johnny Morris Foundation. To thank the community for its support of Wonders of Wildlife and its conservation initiatives, each of the turtles this year will be named after local cities and towns

in the local area. The ten coldstunned loggerhead sea turtles names are Queenie (Springfield), Joplin, Branson, Leb (Lebanon), Nixa, Ozark, Marsh (Marshfield), Neosho, Lampe and Ava.

Izzy Lager, produced by Mother’s Brewing Company (Special to Branson Globe)

Help for parents of children who stutter is as close as your library

Submitted to Branson Globe

Thanks to some generous donations, the Stuttering Foundation has donated a DVD, entitled “Kids Who Stutter: Parents Speak,” to public libraries across the country.

In this 16-minute DVD, parents and speech-language experts talk about how to promote easier talking as they interact with their children. The professionals offer simple tips that parents can follow easily.

The DVD features some of the world’s leading therapists with children who stutter: Lisa A Scott, Ph.D. of the Florida State University’s School of Communication

• MARRIAGE WEEK

Continued from page 3

parishioners but also other community citizens in standing up for what is important in life.

Rev. Jerry and Rev. Kate Angelo are the founders of Vanguard Marriage and Family Advocates and Marriage Minute, where the mission is to strengthen and encourage marriages and families. A copy of the Pastor’s Proclamation can be viewed and downloaded online, as well as other free marriage resources for couples, at www.MarriageMinute.org.

• REFLECTIONS

Continued from page 7

escape difficulties or avoid consequences; it does mean we can count on God to help us fulfill his purposes for us.

I’m so thankful the Bible is a whole story, all of it pointing to Jesus and God’s promises for those who believe in him!

SOLUTION to last week’s Sudoku

Science and Disorders; Ellen Kelly, Ph.D., of Vanderbilt University School of Medicine; speech-language consultants Frances Cook, MBE, MSc, Willie Botterill, MSc, and Elaine Kelman, MSc., from the Michael Palin Centre for Stammering Children in London.

“This is an important tool for families and teachers of children who stutter,” added Jane Fraser, president of the nonprofit Stuttering Foundation. “Our latest DVD is designed to give parents and teachers the tools they need to play a vital role in the process of help-

ing children who stutter.”

For more information about stuttering, write the nonprofit Stuttering Foundation, P.O. Box 11749; Memphis, TN 38111-0749, call 800-992-9392, or visit www. stutteringhelp.org.

Since 1947, the nonprofit Foun-

dation has provided free materials to public libraries nationwide. A library that will shelve them can download a request form at http://www.stutteringhelp.org/libraries-information, email info@ stutteringhelp.org or call 800-9929392.

AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER - AN IMAX 3D EXPERIENCE (PG13) FRI - THU: 1:15, 6:50

OZARKS: LEGACY & LEGEND IMAX FRI - THU: 12:00 PM

SERENGETI: JOURNEY TO THE HEART OF AFRICA FRI - THU: 5:00 PM

PLANE (R) FRI - THU: 12:00, 3:00, 7:00

PUSS IN BOOTS: THE LAST WISH (PG) FRI - THU: 12:30, 3:00, 6:50

THE WHALE (R) FRI - THU: 12:20, 2:50, 7:10

MISSING (PG-13) FRI - THU: 1:20, 4:30, 7:30

A MAN CALLED OTTO (PG-13) FRITHU: 12:40, 3:50, 7:20

M3GAN (PG-13) FRI - THU: 1:00, 4:00, 6:50

BABYLON (R) FRI - THU: 2:00, 6:30

WHITNEY HOUSTON: I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY (PG-13) FRI - THU: 1:20, 4:30, 7:40

PUSS IN BOOTS: THE LAST WISH (PG) FRI - THU: 1:00, 4:00, 6:50

AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER (PG13) FRI - THU: 1:00, 7:00

AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER 3D (PG-13) FRI - THU: 12:30, 6:30

DEVOTION (PG-13) FRI - THU: 1:00, 4:00, 6:50

BLACK PANTHER: WAKANDA FOREVER (PG-13) FRI - THU: 12:30, 3:50, 7:00

TICKET TO PARADISE (PG-13) FRI - THU: 1:20, 4:10, 7:30

Today in history

• 1671 Welsh pirate Henry Morgan lands at the gates of Panama City

• 1820 Russian Antarctic Expedition led by Fabian Gottlieb von Bellingshausen and Mikhail Lazarev discover the continent of Antarctica

• 1825 US Congress approves Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma), clearing the way for the forced relocation of the Eastern Indian tribes via the “Trail of Tears”

• 1880 Thomas Edison patents electric incandescent lamp

• 1888 The National Geographic Society is founded in Washington, D.C. for “the increase and diffusion of geographic knowledge”

• 1894 1st college basketball game, University of Chicago beats Chicago YMCA 19-11

• 1924 Lenin placed in Mausoleum in Red Square, Moscow

• 1941 Peruvian ambassador Ricardo Rivera-Schreiber warns American Ambassador of Japanese assault on Pearl Harbor

• 1944 Siege of Leningrad lifted by the Soviets after 880 days and more than 2 million Russians killed

• 1945 Soviet troops liberate Auschwitz and Birkenau Concentration Camps in Poland

• 1956 RCA records releases Elvis Presley’s single “Heartbreak Hotel”, his first million-seller

• 1961 Leontyne Price and Franco Corelli make debuts at the Metropolitan Opera in New York in “Il trovatore”; final curtain call lasts 35 minutes

• 1970 Movie rating system modifies “M” rating to “PG”

• 1973 US & North Vietnam’s William Rogers & Nguyen Duy Trinh sign cease-fire, ending longest US war and military draft

• 1976 “Laverne & Shirley” TV spinoff from “Happy Days” starring Penny Marshall and Cindy Williams premieres on ABC TV

Bus Truck Moped Snow Skis

Car Train Bicycle Water Skis

Raft Plane Ski-doo Surfboard

Taxi Gocart Unicycle Pogo Stick

Feet Canoe Scooter Skateboard

Ship Horse Donkey Motorcycle

Sled Skates Tricycle Snowmobile

Boat Jet Ski Subway Rollerblades

Mule Heelys Tike Bike Four Wheeler

Uber Rocket Gondola Hot Air Balloon Hands and Knees Trampoline Shoes

info@bransonglobe.com Newspaper, LLC

NOTICES NOTICES SERVICES OFFERED

THE AMERICAN LEGION POST #220 invites all former and current US Military friends to join us Monday mornings at 9 a.m. for coffee and pastries!! Come join us at Faith Lutheran Church, 221 Malone Dr., Branson, MO. We look forward to meeting you!! HOOAH!!

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION SUPPORT GROUP meets on the third Thursday of the month at the Branson Senior Center, 201 Compton Dr. #2055. Lunch is available at 11:30 a.m. and the support group begins at 1 p.m. For more information on the support group, you may call 417-598-3122.

TOPS MEETINGS: 75TH ANNIVERSARY of the nonprofit organization, Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS), meets on Tuesdays at Kimberling City Library, Kimberling City from 4:30 –5:45 p.m. Take off pounds for health and wellness. Visit tops.org for general information.

GRIEF SHARE GROUP at Church 3:16, 15521 US Hwy 160, Forsyth, across from Branson Bank. Guided Sessions, informal setting, every loss we believe is important. We offer support in group sessions. All matters kept confidential. We meet weekly Tue. 6 - 7 p.m. Meet at entrance in back of building.

MS SENIOR EARTH GLOBAL PAGEANT: We are inviting the public to this very special event on March 11 at 2 p.m., at God & Country Theater on Country Blvd. 76. Tickets will be available at the door and doors will open at 1 p.m. Come see your mother, grandmother and great grandmother on stage. They will be competing in five different categories.

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

COMPANY COMING! NEED YOUR HOUSE OR CONDO CLEANED? No time to run errands? Don’t know who to call? Call Dust Busters! Ph. 417-3325513. (Please leave a message as I may be in the middle of one of the above jobs.)

JUNK REMOVAL. All metal hauled off FREE. Call Mark Smith at 417-598-7376

CLEANING SERVICES OFFERED: Residential, new construction, resorts. Offer hauling services as well. FREE ESTIMATES. Call Randy or Tina, 417-294-3104 or 417-824-3094. Serving all TriLakes areas.

DEADLINE FOR FRIDAY’S PAPER: Wednesdays @ 10 a.m.

GET YOUR ALWAYS-FREE BRANSON GLOBE DELIVERED TO YOUR EMAIL INBOX!

Go to www.bransonglobe.com and subscribe to our site today... then watch for your paper on Thursday.

VENDORS NEEDED VEHICLES FOR SALE

2023 BRANSON TRI-LAKES BUILDING & HOME SHOW, Feb. 10 - 12 at Chateau on the Lake. If your business is all about home-sweet-home you need to be here! Call 417-335-1094.

MISC. FOR SALE

FOR SALE: RED 1966 MUSTANG COUPE with a straight-six automatic. Fair condition and will consider trade. Asking $3,600 OBO. Phone 417-294-3104

NEED TO SELL: TWO COCKATIELS, $200 each. Phone 417239-4037.

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. 417-335-5400. renttoownautosbranson.com

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. Branson United Methodist Church will again be offering the Grief Share Group on Tuesdays at 1:30 p.m. in the church library. This is a support group that meets weekly and is open to the community. Leaders of this group are caring people who have experienced grief and have successfully rebuilt their lives. Call Peggy at 417-334-3423.

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

LOCAL JUNK AND BRUSH REMOVAL – 417-324-0860. 417hauling.com. Discount for veterans/senior citizens/disabled. Residential and Commercial. Serving Greater Branson Area. CALL TODAY!

TO ENSURE THE BEST RESPONSE TO YOUR AD... Please make sure your ad is correct in the first issue in which it appears. The Branson Globe is responsible for one day’s charge of the space occupied by the error. If your ad is not correct, call us immediately to have it corrected.

HOMES FOR RENT/SALE CONDOS/APARTMENTS ROOMS FOR RENT HELP WANTED HELP WANTED

HOME FOR RENT: 4 BED, 3 BATH three-story home in Indian Point with attached garage, fireplace in a private subdivision. Call 417-294-0474.

FOR LEASE: NICE 3-BEDROOM, 2-BATH HOME. 167 Greenbriar Lane Hollister. Has fenced-in backyard, storage shed, large, covered patio and 2-car attached garage, laminate flooring, custom window blinds. No smokers. $1,150/Mo. Background app. fee $50. Call 417-337-0398.

FOR SALE BY OWNER: ONE BEDROOM, ONE BATH in Branson area. $78,000; $95 monthly association fee. Fully furnished. Appliances included. Ph. 207-240-2277.

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

COMMERCIAL SPACE

FOR LEASE Commercial space on Bus. Hwy 13 in Branson West. Various sizes available. Call 417248-0062.

HELP WANTED

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

PHONE REPS WANTED – No cold calls. $$$. Flexible hours. Casino Bus Trips 417-335-4466 or 417-332-5000

THE ROSE HOUSE IS LOOKING for a full time cook, and a housekeeper to clean 20+ apartments. The job would include cleaning a certain number of apartments daily, plus additional general housekeeping duties. $15-$20 an hour with negotiable work week (20-40 hours). Call Lindy 417-230-9190.