Branson Globe, February 24, 2023

It’s the grand finale of original ‘Fire In The Hole’ at SDC

Submitted to Branson Globe

During the 2023 season, riders join history aboard the world’s most historic indoor roller coaster.

Proclaiming 2023 the grand finale of the world’s most historic indoor roller coaster, Silver Dollar City officials announce the original Fire In The Hole is boarding

last riders during the upcoming season.

For those who are park fans and Fire In The Hole aficionados, or for those who have never experienced the internationally-awarded Silver Dollar City before, all riders have the opportunity to become part of the journey of this leg-

Tri-Lakes area remembers an icon and pioneer

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

A Branson pioneer has passed away, leaving a larger-than-life hole in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

endary coaster. To celebrate, park creative teams are deep in the process of planning Fire In The Hole special events, parkwide fun and promotions, kicking off March 11 with Spring Break and culminating at the end of December.

“More than 25 million guests SEE FIRE IN THE HOLE, PAGE 35

Many in Branson remember Cliff Braschler as the patriarch of the Braschler Music Show, a family show featuring country and gospel music, and lots of comedy. Cliff not only launched the show alongside his family, but served as master of ceremonies, was the straight man in countless comedy skits, and sang tenor in the show’s

SEE BRASCHLER, PAGE 32

PAGE 2: A NEW APPROACH to employee transportation

A background scene from the iconic Fire In The Hole ride at Silver Dollar City (silverdollarcity.com)

Cliff Braschler (Special to Branson Globe)

Elevate Rides: A new approach to employee transportation

By CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer

On Friday, February 17, Elevate Branson hosted area business representatives and friends for the launch event of Elevate Rides and MyCityRides/Branson, a creative and empowering solution for addressing workforce issues in Branson caused by lack of affordable, reliable transportation.

Elevate Branson founder Bryan Stallings opened the luncheon meeting by welcoming attendees to “The first day of changing the transportation landscape for employees in Branson,” referencing conversations dating back as far as 2006 about the problem. “Tourists don’t mind the traffic on ‘the strip’ that much,” he said. “The real problem is getting employees to work, in order for those tourists to

have a good experience.” Stallings cited statistics indicating as many as 23% of employees have quit a job due to a bad commute or lack of transportation. Bicycles were used at one time in Branson, but are not practical due to the hilly areas, distances from outlying communities, and safety issues such as narrow road shoulders and few bike lanes.

MyCityRides is built on the premise that employers can build a more reliable team and increase retention by supplying the opportunity for employees to own their own motorized scooters. While acknowledging the cultural mindset shift that would be required in Taney and Stone counties to be accustomed to more scooter riders,

Stallings reminded the audience

SEE ELEVATE RIDES, PAGE 31

Registration open for Park & Rec Spring PeeWee Soccer

Submitted to Branson Globe

The Branson Parks and Recreation Department is registering for Spring PeeWee Soccer.

The PeeWee program is available for children three and four years old and will be run by Branson Parks

and Recreation staff members. Staff will facilitate fun drills and games to introduce social and motor skill development. PeeWee teams will have two Saturday practices beginning March 11, 2023, followed by six weeks of scrimmage games. The

deadline to register for the PeeWee program is Tuesday, February 28.

For more information and to register, go to the Youth Sports section at BransonParksandRecreation.com, or register in person at the Branson RecPlex.

Quilts of Honor presented to area veterans

By CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer

Families and friends gathered with several area veterans at MidTown Café in Reeds Spring on Thursday, February 16, for presentations of “quilted hugs of gratitude” by Table Rock Quilts of Honor.

Quilts were presented to Ken Allison, Marines, Vietnam; Michael Brown, Navy, 1978-1981; Mike Cooper, Army paratrooper; Ray Fulsom, Air Force, Vietnam; Philip Lester, Army, Vietnam; James MacCormack, Army, Vietnam; Jeff Shafer, Navy, 1991-1999; and Chad Coffelt, Army/Navy.

The veterans were unanimous in expressing appreciation for the quilts, which are sewn by volunteers using materials donated or purchased by the volunteers themselves or other supportive individuals and businesses. Each quilt has a label showing the recipient’s name, the date, and the name of the person who made it. For some veterans, it is their first tangible expression of thanks from fellow Americans, particularly for many Vietnam veterans who often did not receive a warm welcome back in the U.S. after serving. “This is better than any award I ever got,” stated Mike Cooper. James MacCormack agreed, joking that “The Army sure

never gave me a blanket this nice!”

Many veterans are also appreciative of the life skills they learned in the military, though, even if the experience came at a cost. “I had to grow up and take responsibility for my own actions,” said Army veteran Lester. Navy veteran Brown added, “It was good to have that order in my life as a young man.”

Quilts of Honor members also expressed appreciation to MidTown Café owner Jeff Barnhart for his support in regularly hosting presentations, starting during COVID-19 restrictions when many venues were closed. Thursday’s presentation was the 11th one at the Café, with over 100 quilts given.

Barnhart said he is happy to help honor veterans in this way.

If you know a qualifying veteran who hasn’t yet been honored with a quilt, reach out to Table Rock Quilts of Honor through their Facebook page or visit www. quiltsofhonor.org to learn more.

Executive director of MyCityRides/Memphis, Andy Nix, was happy to share about the Memphis program and answer questions. (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas)

A veteran proudly displays his quilt. (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas)

Veteran with his quilt (via Facebook)

City of Branson hires Lisa Rau as Communications Director

Submitted to Branson Globe

The City of Branson has hired Lisa Rau as Communications Director, effective March 15, 2023. Rau joins the City of Branson from Silver Dollar City as their Director of Publicity & Public Relations. The Communications Director will be responsible for strengthening outreach and communication channels that promote and present Branson’s unique brand, reputation, and entertainment and business offerings to community residents, press, partners and visitors.

“Lisa is a communications icon who has drastically moved the bar in a positive direction for Silver Dollar City and for the Branson area as a whole,” said Branson Mayor Larry Milton. “To have someone of her magnitude join the City of Branson is an incredible opportunity. She is passionate about Branson, and I am thrilled she has chosen to continue to serve our

community,” Mayor Milton said.

“Lisa brings an unparalleled amount of positivity and energy to this position. Her inside knowledge and expertise of both the community and this field will help us in our efforts to move the city forward with vision and leadership,” said Branson City Administrator, Cathy Stepp.

“I’m really looking forward to participating on Branson’s leadership team,” said Rau. “This is an outstanding way to serve our community while continuing to be part of the ever-evolving story of our world-class destination that offers visitors multi-faceted family entertainment, along with a wonderful lifestyle for those who reside here,” said Rau.

Rau worked at Silver Dollar City Attractions for more than three decades in representing the internationally-awarded theme park for more than half its existence. She is one of only two to have ever held

the position of leading publicity efforts. During her tenure, she obtained prestigious awards including international Brass Rings (IAAPA) for public relations efforts, a Mid-America Emmy for video storytelling and several American Advertising Awards (ADDY) for broadcast advertising campaigns. Prior to Silver Dollar City, Rau was an award-winning news reporter with KYTV.

Ribbon cutting held for Total Point Urgent Care

Hollister and Branson Chambers of Commerce recently welcomed Total Point Urgent Care to the Hollister Community. Located at 590 Birch Road, Suite 1C, in Hollister, Total Point is directly across the street from Walgreens, and is open Monday thru Saturday from 7 a.m.-7 p.m., with walk-ins welcome. For more information, call their office at 417544-1241 or visit their website at www.TotalPointMO.com

GIN is a male. Gin is a playful young man who likes to play with his toys and his friend, Sequence. With his energetic personality and loveable nature, we’re sure he’ll be a great addition to family game nights.

GRAHAM is a 2-year-old male Labrador Retriever/Hound mix. He will make a great guard dog. Not good with other dogs nor kids. This handsome guy is ready for a forever home.

Rau (Special to Branson Globe)

Center left to right: Irfana Akram, Zahoor Ahmed, MD; Shyanne Baker, MA; Talal Zahoor, MD (Photo by Alice Yeager)

BY LINDA PAGE Entertainment Writer

For those of us who remember the glory days of the Grand Palace, it was sad to see the property sit unused and deteriorating for several years. But all that changed in November 2020 when the Kuvera Partners opened the “Aquarium at the Boardwalk” on the 13-acre property.

My first visit to the aquarium was a few days back, and I had the pleasure of a personal tour with Taylor Chamberlain, Managing Director. Taylor was a wealth of knowledge about not only the aquarium operations, but also the more than 250 species in the exhibits.

The first thing you notice outside is the 55-foot stainless steel sculpture of Aquarius the Octopus which has become a landmark on 76 Country Boulevard. The newest addition to the Boardwalk is the Dancing Waters Fountain Show with music and lights on the half hour from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Area Entertainment: Aquarium at the Boardwalk is educational, fun

Once inside the aquarium you begin a journey of educational and fun exhibits showcasing the diversity and splendor of the tropical oceans. You’ll see everything from the beautiful colors of the small fish to the graceful stingrays and sharks. Be sure to find Ms. Archie the green sea turtle. Ms. Archie lost a back flipper in a boat accident and was rescued and is now living out her days in luxury. Hint: she can be found in one of the two walk-through tunnels.

Some of the smaller exhibits house tiny “Sexy Shrimp,” blue crabs, seahorses and sardines. Be sure to take the time to read the plaques on each exhibit for interesting and fun information. There is no limit to the amount of time visitors can spend at the aquarium; typically, it takes a couple hours at minimum to go through, but that varies.

Some of the most beautiful exhibits are the corals. As we know, the coral reefs are disappearing, so

Aquarium at the Boardwalk has partnered with Coral Restoration Foundation to support their mission to bring healthy corals back along Florida’s coral reef.

The Submarine Adventure is a 5D ride on which guests are transported to the bottom of the ocean, guided by mascots Aquarius the octopus and Finn the golden puffer fish. Once at the bottom you get an up-close and personal view of a wide variety of ocean animals. There are several photo ops along the way as well as crawl-throughs and pop-ups. One such pop-up is into an exhibit of poisonous lionfish swimming all around your head. You can crawl through a sunken vessel to get an up-close view of crabs and a wide variety of fish. There are also a couple of interactive exhibits where visitors can safely touch stingrays, sharks, horseshoe crabs and other sea animals, under the supervision of the staff.

The water in the aquarium is salt

water and no chemicals are added. Some of the animals are acquired because they need a new home, such as from another aquarium that has run out of room; others come from the wild or from species raised in aquaculture. All animals brought to the aquarium are in quarantine for six weeks to ensure they are healthy before being introduced into the exhibits.

Feeding all the animals is a major part of the daily activities behind the scenes. Some of the aniSEE AQUARIUM, PAGE 25

This seahorse makes a beautiful picture at the Aquarium at the Boardwalk. (Photo by Linda Page)

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

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

KIM CHAPPELL Ad Designer gabbydor210@gmail.com

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KAREN HALFPOP Digital/Production Manager production@ BransonGlobe.com

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LINDA PAGE Entertainment Writer lpage65@centurytel.net

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BY

have about $50,000 in a retirement fund, $50,000 in consumer debt, $220,000 in student loan debt, and we owe $280,000 on our house, which is worth around $500,000. We’re thinking about using our retirement fund to pay off credit cards and such, then selling the house and using the money to pay off the student loans.

After that, we’d live in an apartment for a while, save up 20% or more for a down payment on the next home, and do things right financially moving forward. What do you think about this game plan?

Jake

Dear Jake, Wow, I really appreciate your motivation, man. You’re willing to do whatever it takes, and that’s

pretty cool. Not many people have the determination to do the kinds of things you’re talking about.

I almost never tell people to sell their homes. If you actually can’t afford it, that’s one thing—and in that case, we’d sell the house. If it’s the only way to avoid bankruptcy, we’d get rid of it in a heartbeat. But in your case, things are a little different. You’re in a pretty deep hole, but your income as an anesthesiologist gives you a really big shovel you can use to carve out some steps, get up out of that hole, and fill it in so you never fall in again.

Now, this is going to mean some real lifestyle changes for a few years. I’m talking about beans and rice, and no vacations. There’s

no more living like a rich doctor, because you’re not a rich doctor— you’re a broke doctor. We’re going to temporarily stop adding to your retirement fund, not cash it out, and we’re going to start living on a written monthly budget where every single dollar is given a name and a purpose.

Cleaning up $270,000 of debt sounds scary. But with a $260,000 income and the other changes we talked about, you could put $90,000 a year toward all this and have it completely cleaned up in just three years. That’s what I’d do if I woke up in your shoes. It will set you free for the rest of your lives to invest and save. Get on it, doc. You can do this!

— Dave

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

Iremember watching Mike Tyson’s boxing matches on TV in

high school. He didn’t just box. He hurt people. I remember watching one match where Tyson hit another boxer hard, and he went down. Then, he got up again, and Tyson knocked him back down. He should have just stayed down, but he didn’t, he got up a third time, and Tyson knocked him out cold. It would be best if inflation would just stay down, too.

Inflation has been going down steadily but surprisingly jumped a little in January. It’s down drastically from six months ago but still higher than the Fed goal.

Some examples of inflation not staying down;

• A recent report showed that Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 0.5% last month, up from 0.1% in December.

• Producer Prices which also measure inflation, went up in January more than expected and was the biggest increase since June.

The annual inflation rate went down in January from December and is now the lowest since October 2021. But inflation is still putting a squeeze on American

families. These rising prices mean that paychecks aren’t going as far as they used to, even last fall.

With inflation proving sticky, I’m afraid the Fed will be tempted to continue raising rates. But unfortunately, they are walking a tightrope between fixing inflation before the 2024 presidential election and not going so fast that they trigger a recession.

The Fed doesn’t need to be alarmed for two reasons. First, higher housing costs made up almost half of the monthly increase

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.

DearDave, I’m an anesthesiologist, and I make between $260,000 and $270,000 a year. My wife is a stay-at-home mom who takes care of our preschool-age kids. We

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

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer

I’m following with interest the revival at Asbury University in Wilmore, Kentucky, since a couple of professors are “friends of friends,” and some people I know have actually made the road trip to check it out. All attest that it’s the real deal. And the revival spir-

Reflections: The power of a praying mother

it is spreading to other campuses, Christian and secular. I don’t know about you, but compared to political vitriol and the despicable Grammy award show, I think news about a move of God among young people is worth celebrating!

Many people may also know this isn’t Asbury’s first spiritual renewal; there were several in the 20th century, most recently 1970. A little historical digging reveals that many of our country’s major revivals have sprung from early Methodism and the ministry of Englishmen John and Charles Wesley during the Great Awakening. Direct or indirect connections include the Wesleyan Holiness tradition with which Asbury University is affiliated, Church of God, African

Methodist Episcopal, Nazarene, Assemblies of God, and several more, with such evangelical/Pentecostal denominations rapidly gaining adherents worldwide. Digging still deeper, though, takes us to a woman named Susanna Wesley. Susanna Annesley was born in 1669, the 25th of an educated London minister’s family of 25 children. Although women received little formal education, her home environment left her well-read, and she married Anglican minister Samuel Wesley. Her life wasn’t easy, though; Mr. Wesley was apparently better at the academic aspects of ministry than at family life, but Susanna’s homemaking and organizational skills helped her 10 surviving children (of 19) to thrive

both spiritually and educationally.

I get tired just thinking about homeschooling 10 kids, but not only did Susanna manage to impart both biblical and classical training plus farm skills; she also set up a rotating schedule for personal prayer and conversation with each child for an hour before bedtime on a designated night each week.

Susanna also knew the importance of personal prayer and Bible study. In a busy household, quiet time is hard to come by, but she accomplished it by retreating for two hours a day to a favorite chair and pulling her apron up over her head to create a personal tabernacle. Her older children were taught to help with the younger and stay on task, as she interceded in prayer for her family and devout-

Been Thinkin’ About... My first grade reader

ly studied the scriptures, which equipped her to host Bible study in her home for up to 200 people!

Two of those children, of course, were John and Charles Wesley. John’s theological impact is well-known, as his powerful preaching and written booklets moved audiences toward a more personal relationship with a holy God. Charles, a gifted musician, contributed to John’s accomplishments largely through writing thousands of hymns, all based on sound theology; it’s hard to imagine an evangelical congregation that hasn’t sung “Oh, for A Thousand Tongues,” “And Can It Be,” or “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing.”

I hope this greatly condensed

BY JOSHUA HESTON StateoftheOzarks Media & Design

Istarted school late (or so I thought). Truth is I started when I was five-about-to-be-six instead of four-about-to-be-five and the loudly dressed woman sitting alone behind a tiny desk in the tome cavernous elementary school

gymnasium sniffed disapprovingly at my late arrival and advanced age. I knew my mom was irritated by the way the leather fringe on her jacket moved and we left the school and never went back. She instead enrolled me in a strange little private school where I would later memorize poetry on Fridays, which I did not dislike.

But a year later I still couldn’t read, mainly because they didn’t teach me how in kindergarten but partly because I knew deep down if I learned to read then my mom would stop reading to me and that was reason enough to dig in my heels and never learn.

It was September and I was now

six-about-to-be-seven and in first grade. The teacher’s assistant, Miss Rosalind, was a large pastel woman in big beaded jewelry and it was her job to introduce me to my first grade reader, a large yellow thing with a rambling story about a sun and a vulture and a jackrabbit. I was appalled by the artwork. We had always picked our books based on how much we liked the art, my mom and I. But this book? It was awful. Strange dark lines wriggled across the page like some sort of psychotic doodle.

I took the book home as instructed. “Look at this! It’s ugly.” My mom did not disagree. “I can’t!” I cried when contemplating having

to learn to read the book, and my mom sat me down and explained something both true and valuable: Some problems cannot be circled around or hidden from. You have to buck up and go through them.

“If you show them you can read it, you can get better books,” she said. I was still angry and nearly in tears. “But you have a great memory. You don’t have to learn to read. You just have to make it look like you’re reading. The sooner you do that, the sooner you’ll never have to look at this book again.”

I was inspired. I would do anything for such a goal. And so on Wednesday I triumphantly “read’ the awful reader to Miss Rosa-

lind, having memorized the whole thing and only missing two words. “Very good, Joshua,” I remember her saying. “You read very well.” I never told her I couldn’t read because the next reader I got had nice pictures and a pleasant story. By Thanksgiving I had finished three more books, was reading to myself, and in January began working my way through the 20-year catalog of National Geographic in the basement.

Perhaps I should thank Miss Rosalind and the awful book with terrible pictures. But instead, I think I’ll just raise my cup of instant black coffee to my mom. And read another book.

Breakfast at Tiffany’s: Gold plated Christianity

mans 2:25

BY TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer

For no one is a Jew who is merely one outwardly.” Ro-

Imagine paying thousands of dollars for a piece of jewelry you were told was solid gold, only to find later that it was merely gold plated brass. The piece of jewelry would immediately lose its value and you would likely never do business with that particular jeweler ever again.

Much like gold plated jewelry, many of us present a false Chris-

tianity. We may go to church, pay tithe, and sing in the choir–and all the while our hearts are far from God, our mouths are filled with gossip and profanity, and our minds are filled with impure thoughts. Though we might be able to fool the world with our gold plated Christianity, we haven’t fooled God. Man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart (1 Sam 16:7).

I think we’ve all had moments when what we say and what we do don’t exactly add up. The good news is that the God who judges sin is also the God who loves us regardless of that sin. But don’t be mistaken into thinking that he wants to leave us with hearts of brass. In response to this realization David cried out, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And

see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23-24). May this be a reminder when we notice our golden hearts fading to brass, to lay them at the foot of the cross in humility and a desire for change. For “if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

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

That’s a distinct possibility!

Missouri’s Sunshine Law states, “It is the public policy of this state that meetings, records, votes, actions, and deliberations of public governmental bodies be open to

Does ‘Sunshine’ into Branson’s closed meetings?

the public unless otherwise provided by law. Sections 610.010 to 610.200 [The Sunshine Law] shall be liberally construed and their exceptions strictly construed to promote this public policy.”

“But Seagull, if that’s the policy, what’s the problem? Isn’t Missouri’s Sunshine Law designed to ensure that the processes of government are open to the public?”

“Yes, it is a tool designed to do just that, but, like any tool, its effectiveness depends on how a person or organization uses it.”

A flashlight is a tool, but it’s only as effective as the person who controls it. If the person controlling the

flashlight doesn’t turn it on, what good is it? Even if on, the person holding the light determines what areas it shines in and those it doesn’t.

In Branson, the light of Missouri’s Sunshine Law and the open access to government that it shines on is determined by those who control that light and what they shine it on, the Branson Board of Aldermen.

The Sunshine Law has some exceptions for Closed Meetings, which Branson calls “Executive Sessions,” to discuss specific topics. Even there, however, it states that nothing “shall be construed as to require a public governmental body to hold a closed meeting, record or

vote to discuss or act upon any matter.” “Seagull, are you saying that exceptions in the Sunshine Law are permissive and not mandatory?”

“No, an Ole Seagull believes that’s how anyone with a sixth-grade education would read the law.”

In an Ole Seagull’s opinion, although there are certainly times when an exception’s use would be appropriate, up to recent days, the Branson Board of Aldermen has routinely used them rather than looking for a public alternative. He can even understand that, to a certain limited extent, for conducting the meeting itself.

He has a problem with the belief that it violates some mystical law for anyone in the Closed Meeting to discuss what went on during the meeting. “But Seagull aren’t things discussed in a Closed Meeting confidential and covered by the ‘cone of silence.’”

“Think again Grasshopper. Although the public is not in attendance, absent a specific law pro-

hibiting the disclosure of certain information, it’s an Ole Seagull’s opinion that any member may discuss anything that went on in the meeting, particularly its manner of conduct. THERE IS NO AUTOMATIC CONE OF SILENCE.”

In most cases, whether the light of the Sunshine Law shines and what it lights up depends on the transparency of the Board and Administration. First, invoking the exceptions, and second, the willingness of the participants of the Closed Meeting to discuss those matters with the public in a manner consistent with the policy of the Sunshine Law without being able to hide behind the “mythical cone of silence.” Thanks to the transparency of the current Board, and for one of the first times an Ole Seagull can remember, there was open public discussion about the actions of the Board during a recent Closed Meeting. It’s a start towards having the Sunshine into Branson’s Closed Meetings and is long overdue.

Ole Seagull

BY PAT LAMB Columnist

Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 18:2,3 (NKJV)

• STOCK MARKET INSIGHTS

Continued from page 6

in the CPI prices in January, and new rent prices have declined for several months and will bring down the CPI. Second, the early-year spending might be because we are having a warmer-than-normal winter, and Americans are spending more than usual.

I think the Fed should go slow and watch the effect their already high rates are having. Continued rate hikes aren’t worth the risk of a recession.

What would help is if inflation would just stay down. Mike Tyson’s opponents eventually started learning to stay down because eight of his boxing matches lasted less

Train Up a Child: A child’s love message

It’s a big deal to be leader for the day in kindergarten! When it was Dylan’s turn, he surprised his teacher and asked her if he could have a little boy help him. He had noticed that this little boy never got to be leader. An adult lady was always with him to help him. The surprised teacher answered, “Why, yes, Dylan. That would be fine.”

Dylan took the little boy by the hand and together they took the lunch count to the office. They led the children to the playground at recess. They led the children back inside, hand in hand. Whatever needed to be done, they did together. At the end of the day, the

than a minute. His shortest match was against Marvis Frazier, who Tyson beat in 30 seconds. Frazier didn’t have an opportunity to stay down because one of Mike Tyson’s legendary uppercuts knocked him out cold. Likewise, we need infla-

teacher was not surprised to see them touch each other’s forehead, an action to show that they were friends. You see, this little boy was a “special ed” student who couldn’t talk like other children.

A mother shared with me that one day on a shopping trip, when she went to lift her little boy from the car seat at the mall, he said, “I luv’ you Mommy.” While inside the store, he pulled her hand up to his mouth and kissed it! Why did these two examples happen? Could it be that they have experienced love at home as they have watched the example set by their parents? As in the second example, could it be that the

tion to stay down because we don’t want any more of the Federal Reserves’ legendary uppercuts. Have a blessed week!

www.FerventWM.com

2760 E. Sunshine St. Springfield, MO 65804

child has experienced this same kind of love from his mom? It has been said that children learn what they live. If they live with love in the home, they will be more apt to show love to others.

When I taught kindergarten, I had a parent bring her child to school on the first day and say, “I won’t believe anything he says about you if you won’t believe anything he says about me!” It was meant as a joke, but truthfully, I found it very easy, in many cases, to tell what kind of home life the children had. Not only did they tell you things, but it was easy to see that they patterned their behavior from their home

life. I have heard it said that, “Children learn what they live!” In many cases this is very true. How, then, can we teach our children to love? Setting an example is probably the most important way. Bible study at home and church will give them examples of how Jesus demonstrated love. Conversation overheard by children should always show love and concern.

In the verse cited above, Jesus was teaching us to humble ourselves. If we pattern ourselves after Jesus, as the children so often pattern their behavior after us, we will set a good example for the children.

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

One of Branson’s favorite eateries was recently closed for a remodel, but most of the restaurant’s employees worked as hard as ever

Chick-fil-A workers give back to community

owner and operator Kevin Hutcheson gave his employees a choice.

“Instead of just telling our team they wouldn’t have work for a couple of weeks, I decided to allow them to have the opportunity to serve our community with local nonprofits and receive their normal pay,” Hutcheson explained.

during that time.

Chick-fil-A’s drive-thru has reopened, and the lobby is set to reopen next week. During the two weeks that the facility was closed, franchise

The two weeks found Chickfil-A employees, dressed in red T-shirts, assisting many of the community’s nonprofit organizations. The Chick-fil-A crew found themselves painting, organizing, cleaning, stocking and doing many other chores to help area organizations.

Hutcheson also planned Chickfil-A education classes for employees to participate in, and gave some workers an opportunity to learn about the food truck side of the company, too.

For those who opted to work in the community, many found that they benefited as much as the nonprofits they helped.

Elisa (also known as E) has worked at Chick-fil-A for nearly three months. E, a college student, works in the evenings, in the area of food prep. Said E, of her experience, “It’s nice. There’s a lot of things in the community that can be done. I feel really bad that people don’t pitch in—people that live here and don’t contribute. I think it’s nice that our boss allowed us to do this. I worked at the library thrift store. I really have enjoyed my time.”

Mollie is the administration director at Chick-fil-A, where she has worked for the past eight years, since the Branson location opened.

“It’s been incredible. I think it’s great that he’s allowing us to do this and get out and see different places, and also to make an income and not just sit home during these two weeks,” said Mollie, of her employer’s decision to allow the crew to help in the community. “I have volunteered at Elevate Branson Thrift Store, at CAM packing food, the

Taney County Crisis Center, Taneyhills Library Thrift Store, and passing out food with Elevate Branson.”

Tim works in the front of house at Chick-fil-A and also on the restaurant’s food truck. Of his experience, Tim said, “It was a phenomenal blessing. I’ve really enjoyed getting to be more handson in the community. I chose the library because I’m a previous school teacher. I taught for five years. I was very excited to work in the children’s book area, but I was also excited to help in the thrift store. There are so many great deals in the thrift store. The biggest thing I saw is what a huge need there is for more volunteer hours. They really need about 10 to 15 times more people than they have because the stock room is just massive and full, and there are so many great items. They just need people to take time each day, even if it’s just a couple hours, to step in and put new stuff out on the shelves and help rotate the product.”

Lindsey is a team lead at Chickfil-A, where she has been employed for five years. Lindsey appreciated the opportunity she was presented to help the nonprofit organizations in her neighborhood.

Said Lindsey, “I absolutely love it. I think it was a brilliant idea, and I think it ties closely to what Truett Cathy’s heart has been all along SEE CHICK-FIL-A, PAGE 25

Chick-fil-A employees spent their time helping nonprofits in the community while their restaurant was closed for remodel. (Photo by K.D. Michaels)

Thrifty Thrush offers resale and retail shopping experience

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

A unique shopping experience has opened in downtown Branson.

The Thrifty Thrush combines a touch of retail, a dose of flea market and everything from new boutique clothing to vintage collectibles all in one location.

Owners Kathy and Chandler Robertson had spent a great deal of time and effort building and maintaining a presence in the local flea market scene. As the popularity of the inventory they offered grew, so did the demand for larg-

er items, such as dining room sets and bedroom furniture, which presented a challenge to the couple, due to limited space.

Kathy and Chandler began the search for a location that would allow them to develop a full scale endeavor.

“We discovered the storefront on East Hensley was available in September, and we jumped at the opportunity to occupy a place so close to downtown Branson,” noted Kathy.

After much renovation, including wall papering the building’s cement walls to create a look of

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white-washed brick, and painting existing hooks and rails black, providing extra display space while continuing the desired industrial look, The Thrifty Thrush opened for business on December 1.

The Thrifty Thrush currently features five vendors, each with very different offerings. Their inventory ranges from vintage pottery and collectibles to lead crystal and handblown glass, from memorabilia to books and home decor to artwork.

Said Kathy, “The boutique items vary from new and gently used higher end ladies’ clothing, such as Chicos and Lululemon, to jewelry, vintage leather, coats, purses, boots and accessories. There is new, vintage and antique furniture and accessories, lamps, tables and chairs. Among the best things we have to offer are in the children’s boutique items. Everything in it is beautifully handmade or hand selected—afghans, layettes, caps, receiving blankets, aprons, books, toys and decor.”

The children’s items are lovingly provided by Kathy’s mom, Dee Hunt, using the name “Granny Dee” in her merchandising. “Granny Dee” provides hand-sewn and crocheted items and takes custom orders, upon request.

Kathy and Chandler and their family relocated to the Branson area in the fall of 2015 from Marquette, Kansas.

“Our passion is to serve the Lord faithfully and raise children who do,” Kathy explained. “In seeking a high-quality Christian education for our two daughters, Mackenzie and Emily, we were led to College of the Ozarks.”

Upon moving to the area, Chandler continued his career with Verizon Wireless, while Kathy, who owned and operated a grooming business, in addition to doing sewing and alterations, began a career with family-owned furniture business in the Ozarks.

“After 2020, it became obvious to me that the demand for new fur-

niture continued to be higher than the ability to meet it by the average vendor, and the opportunity to buy and resell new and gently used furniture segued into a natural market for us here in 2021,” Kathy noted. She began to purchase small items to reupholster, repair and resell, and enjoyed great success with both furniture and antiques.

The Robertsons’ oldest daughter, Mackenzie, graduated from College of the Ozarks with a degree in Graphic Design in 2021. Now married, Mackenzie enjoys working part-time at The Thrifty Thrush, as well as assisting with design work for the family business. Younger daughter, Emily, currently a student at College of the Ozarks, is pursuing a degree in Conservation.

Together, and on their own, the Robertson family enjoys shopping for some of the constantly rotating treasures found at The Thrifty Thrush. It is a hobby they refer to as “thrifting.”

Located at 105 East Hensley, just east of Business 65 in Branson, The Thrifty Thrush is open Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and at other times by appointment. You can reach them by phone at 417-545-0194, find them on Facebook, or visit their website, thethriftythrush.com.

“We are gathering beauty as we go, restoring hope along the way, and finding joy in the journey,” said Kathy.

Reader’s Corner: Wonderful learning opportunities at area libraries in March

By CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer

Some wonderful opportunities are coming up at area libraries in March! At Kimberling Area Library, plan to attend Learning on Wednes-

day on March 8, as Len Slovensky, a local genealogist, presents “Discovering My Ancestry through Personal Connection and Travel.”

The emergence of the internet allows us to connect to numerous

people and places. But how does one connect to ancestors without that technology, or when availability is limited in key places or with key people? Slovensky creatively used his own tech skills to locate

his ancestors via personal connections to a woman and mayor in his ancestral Slovakian village. Join Len as he shares his family history discovery process and ultimate trip to a community in Slovakia.

This inspirational presentation will start at 10:15 in the Library community room. Preregistration is not required; attendance is free, and coffee and light snacks are provided.

For more fun and learning, check out Taneyhills Library opportunities as well. On Saturday, March 4, instructor Robin Williams will present Beginning Loom Knitting. The 10:30 a.m. class is for adults and children ages 10 and older. Looms will be provided for the in-class project; bring your own skein of yarn of your

choice. Cost for the class is $5, and openings are limited, so check with the Circulation Desk at 417-3341418 to reserve your spot.

Also in March, artist George Chapman’s popular class, Studio Art I for Adults, returns on Tuesdays, March 7, 14, 21 and 28. For ages 18-plus, the class meets 4:45 to 6:45 p.m. Class size is limited to eight students, and the $35 fee includes supplies. Enroll by phone or online.

Also, check with the library as details are developed for a planned Thursday, March 9, class on birds and birdwatching, taught by Dr. Marvin DeJong.

Any of these opportunities would be a great way to look forward to spring!

JATC holds birthday party for Dr. Seuss

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

The Junior Auxiliary of Taney County is holding a birthday party for Dr. Seuss!

The party, designed for children from preschool age, through approximately third grade, will not only celebrate the birthday of a prolific author but encourage children to develop a life-long love of reading.

The party, slated for 10 a.m. to 12 noon, is a come-and-go event.

APPRECIATION ONLY

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.

Dr. Seuss story times will be held at 10:30, 11:00 and 11:30. All children in attendance will receive a book, a goodie bag and a cupcake.

The Dr. Seuss Birthday celebration is set for Saturday, February 25 in the community room at Branson Tri-Lakes News, 200 Industrial Park Drive in Hollister. For more information, contact Mandy at 601-504-4545 or visit the JATC Facebook page.

REAL ESTATE: Home and shops on 6.76 acres, less than 1 mile to public lake access! 1,700+ sq.ft. home on 6.76 acres, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, big living room with fireplace, large sunken den, nice kitchen, utility and mud room. 1-car attached garage, nice deck, beautiful big yard with mature shade trees and ornamentals. Central air, whole-house generator, private well and septic. Galena schools. Property has two 30-ft. x 40 ft. metal shop buildings. Property is only 30 minutes to Branson, and one hour to Springfield. This property is in a beautiful location and would make a great home for any country or lake loving family!

Needs some updating and a little TLC! Ready for you to fix it up the way you like it! Property sells subject to probate court approval. TERMS: 10% down day of sale, balance due 45 days or less at closing. Call for appointment to see property.

Estate of Carl Moore

from Hamner s ʼ Unbelievable Variety Show

New face joins Hamner’s Unbelievable Variety Show March 3

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

When Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety Show opens on March 3, you will see a new face on stage.

Brittany Marie is the newest member to join the cast of one of the area’s most popular shows—the the one-of-a-kind, fast-paced magic and variety show starring Dave Hamner and his wife Denise, and some of the best talent in Branson!

Brittany Marie is a native of the Ozarks, born in Springfield, MO. Brittany competed for many years as an artistic gymnast. Upon retiring from the sport, she moved in a new direction, teaching competitive and recreational gymnastics for the next ten years.

In 2014, Brittany discovered a passion for the aerial arts, and pursued professional training at the Circus Arts Institute in Atlanta, Georgia. Before long Brittany, a pioneer in the aerial community, began teaching aerial arts throughout the Ozarks. She also performed at showcases, private performances, parties, festivals, fundraising events and more with the Springfield Aerial Fitness performance company.

In 2019, Brittany relocated to Chicago, where she studied at the Actor’s Gymnasium Circus School and Theater Company. It was there that Brittany excelled in many new skills, including juggling, mime, clowning, Chinese pole, and partner acrobatics, as well as honed her skills in aerial silks, trapeze and tumbling.

After completing the program in Chicago, Brittany Marie choreographed an original grounded cube act she titled “Nary.” She performed in The Leftovers’ original production of The Couch Potatoes at the Philadelphia Fringe Festival, and was a featured act in the Low Ceiling Circus Production Life of the Party.

Most recently, Brittany Marie performed as an aerial artist at Branson’s Dolly Parton Stampede, adding horseback riding and stage acting to her resume. According to Brittany, “The most powerful thing you can share with your audience is yourself.”

Brittany Marie joins the cast of Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety Show as they open their tenth season on March 3. Show time is 8 pm, at the Hamner Variety Theater, 3090 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway

For more information on the show, including their complete schedule and ticket information, visit their website, hamnersunbelievable.com or call 417-3344363.

Brittany Marie (Special to Branson Globe)

Square dance workshop combines music, fun, tradition

By CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer

Music, dancing, and conversation again filled the Michel family’s Weddings at the Homestead venue on Friday evening and Saturday, February 17 and 18, for the Square Dance Workshop hosted by Ozark Mountain Music Association and coordinated by Faith Marshall and Emily Garoutte.

Marshall and Garoutte, who are both music and dance enthusiasts and have attended Ozark Mountain Music Association’s traditional and bluegrass camps, decided to collaborate on producing the workshop after realizing they had both followed up with vintage dance specialist Sharon Guli, who taught a previous workshop for OMMA. Both young women credited each other for helping make the event happen, from the early planning stages to details such as shopping for meals during the workshop.

“They pretty much handled it

all,” said OMMA director Wendy Wright. “It’s been a big success; people are having a great time.” Students attended from around the Branson area as well as from other parts of southwest Missouri and north Arkansas, with a total of 54 young people and several adults participating.

Although Guli was unable to participate this time due to family circumstances, excellent teaching was provided by Steve and Joanie Green of Ozark Foot Song. Based in northwest Arkansas, the Greens are regular performers and instructors at the Ozark Folk Center in Mountain View, Arkansas, and have appeared at many folk festivals across the U.S. and abroad; learn more at www.ozarkfootsong. com. Dance instructor Gloria Scarlet of Springfield, Missouri, also taught at the workshop. Music was provided by volunteers from around Taney and Stone County who regularly play at the Thurs-

day evening jam session at Mountain Grove Schoolhouse and other Ozarks events. All of the instructors and volunteers are dedicated to helping preserve traditional Ozarks music and dance in a new generation of young people.

Stay up to date on future events by following the Ozark Mountain Music Association Facebook page; this Saturday evening, check out Cabin Fever Variety Show, 7 p.m. at New Testament Christian Church in Reeds Spring, presented by the Society of Ozarkian Hillcrofters. Donations will be accepted at the show for Ozarks preservation efforts including scholarships for OMMA summer youth camps. Registration is now for Bluegrass Camp, scheduled for June 6-10 at The Homestead; openings are limited, so get your young musicians signed up. All levels of experience are welcome, and the June 10 evening performance will be open to the public.

Thank you for reading the

Square dance (Photo used with permission from Ozark Mountain Music Facebook)

Outdoors: Little Ozark Jig reprises the Turner Micro Jig

jigs, weighing in at well less than 100th of an ounce, were custom made by Turner using a proprietary process involving a small amount of hackle fastened to the hook by shrink wrap and a colored collar. No “tying” was involved at all. After Turner died, his family produced the jigs for a while. Commercial production stopped for a variety of legal, supply and other.

By GARY J. GROMAN, Independent Journalist

For decades, the Turner Jones

Micro Jig was one of the most popular and effective ways to catch trout and pan fish. These

Tim Homesley, the owner of Tim’s Fly Shop on Highway 112 near the entrance to Roaring River State Park, has been tying flies and jigs for almost 30 years. He knew Turner and sold many of the popular jigs to trout anglers on their way to Roaring River State Park. Although the supply of Turner jigs gradually dried up after production ceased, its popularity with his customers didn’t.

To fill that void, Tim developed the “Little Ozark Jig” to replace

it. Although similar to the Turner Micro Jig in many respects, the Little Ozark has some differences. The original Turner Micro Jig had problems with weak hooks and durability. The different material, stronger hook, tied collar, and the use of Solarez UV glue enhance the durability of the Little Ozark Jig. After a recent fishing trip, Tim said, “I caught 18 on a Little Ozark Jig, and it didn’t tear it up. It’s still fishable.”

Homesley says the jigs are best fished with a fly rod or ultralight under an indicator. At Roaring River, depending on the amount of water running, he uses a twoor four-pound line, about 6x or 7x tippet, depending on how much water is running.

One of Lake Taneycomo’s premier guides, Duane Doty of Ozark Trout Runners, alerted us to the Little Ozark Jig. Duane says that although they are not an

exact copy of the Turner Micro Jig, he likes them better because they have a stronger hook and hold up better.

For Lake Taneycomo fishing, Doty recommends four colors –black, white, ginger and olive. In the early morning, with zero or minimal generation, he fishes them under an indicator two to four feet deep and goes deeper as the sun rises. He recommends using two- to four-pound test line depending on the water clarity.

The “Little Ozark Jig” is only available from Tim through Tim’s Fly Shop at 23387 State Highway 112, Cassville, MO 65625. While there are no online purchases through his website, he takes orders by phone at 417-847-4956 and through his Facebook page, www.facebook.com/Tims-FlyShop-60932709761/.

Tim’s Fly Shop is open from March 1-October 31 on Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. It’s closed on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. From November 1 to the last day of February, he’s open on Friday, Saturday and some Sundays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Tim Homesley’s Little Ozark Jig (Photo by Tim Homesley)

Your Audience Watches

Branson Visitor TV

The people you want to reach with your business will soon be on vacation in Branson, looking for exciting things to do on their trip. They will be in their room, with the television on, and you can reach them on Branson Visitor TV. You can target people who are actively making decisions during their trip.

Kimberling City Elks Lodge busy with many charitable events Lodge holds first fun night of 2023

The Kimberling City Elks Lodge 2505 held their first fun night of 2023 on February 9. Fun nights are held on the second Thursday of each month and are

organized by the fundraising committee. Proceeds are used toward various charitable activities in the community such as assisting in funding the Christmas program.

This month the Lodge hosted Greg Pope, owner and master distiller of Missouri Ridge Distillery

Fundraisers (Special to Branson Globe)

& Brewery. Greg led members through a tasting of his wares and gave them a history and background of his craft. Members stated that they found this program both fun and informative. A brisket dinner with all of the sides was donated by Kelly Bradley of Pop’s Smoke Shack and Katie Bradley of Meal Prep by Katie. Piratey Mike volunteered his time to provide musical accompaniment to the evening.

A great time was had by all attendees. The Kimberling City Elks Lodge would like to thank Greg Pope, Kelly & Katie Bradley and Piratey Mike for helping to make this event possible and such a success.

Lodge fundraiser benefits community

Veterans of the Ozarks presented a check for $1,000 to the Elks Lodge on February 9, 2023, for their share in selling 1,000 mini Jeep tickets. Sam Pische from Generations Bank was on hand as they pitched in to help display the Jeep and sell Elk tickets. Members of the KC Elks Fundraising Committee were on hand at the check presentation. The proceeds received by the Lodge from the sales will go toward providing for needs

in their surrounding community.

Pictured left to right: Sam Pische, Generations Bank; Ron Fry; David McAllister, Veterans of the Ozarks; Deb Stanley; Wendy Youngblood; Charlotte Root; Doug Mayhew; Keoka Ketcher; Deb Heckler; Ronaele Jacobsen; Lionel Cantu; Phyllis Stayton and Kathy McAllister (Special to Branson Globe)

Lodge dinner raises money for soccer club

The Elks Lodge held a charity fried chicken dinner on February 6 to raise money for the Reeds Spring Soccer Club. A check for $906.40 was presented by the Elks Lodge to the Soccer Club from the sales of the dinner.

Presentation (Special to Branson Globe)

You Con-Du-It, Mon!

By Stephanie Callahan, Owner/Lightspeed Electrical

Conduit…what exactly is it anyway? In the electrical field, conduit is the term we use for the protective piping that wires are pulled through. Conduit comes in different sizes and materials and it has many applications.

SIZE: Conduit comes in a variety of diameters to accommodate different wiring scenarios. There

talking about conduit. The type of conduit that can be used depends on many factors. Will it be running underground or up the exterior of a building? Will it need to have several bends or even be flexible? There are also NEC guidelines on how deep conduit needs to be buried for different purposes.

are also differences in the thickness and weight of the walls. It can be sized for several thinner wires running inside it or for just a few thick wires. The National Electric Code (NEC) mandates which diameter conduit should be used for specific wiring scenarios. There are even calculations to size it properly for adding more wiring in the future.

MATERIAL: You may have heard terms like PVC, EMT or Rigid pipe when a contractor is

The bending of conduit requires special tools, techniques and a knowledge of trigonometry. Yes, TRIGONOMETRY. Advanced math skills are a must when figuring out bends, angles and lengths of the conduit raceways. If you are planning a wiring project that involves exterior circuits or has log cabin or industrial concrete walls, call the professionals at Lightspeed Electrical at 417-239-5050. We con-du-it for you!

Stephanie Callahan, Owner/Lightspeed Electrical

Continued from page 10

with having a restaurant like Chick-fil A. I volunteered at the Women’s Crisis Center, Riley’s Treasures. Taneyhills Library

Thrift Store, Elevate Branson. I led a workshop with my CFO on

• AQUARIUM

Continued from page 5

mals only eat three or four times a week but others eat up to six times a day. There is a full-sized kitchen on site with walk-in freezers and refrigerators to keep the food flowing.

As you exit the aquarium, browse through the Treasure Trove Gift Shop and pick up some souvenirs and candy and stuffed replicas of Aquarius and Finn.

Aquarium at the Boardwalk op-

Tuesday. We have been sharing with our team, basically the overall picture of what it means to be a Chick-fil-A employee. What does that look like when we are serving our community and serving one another? Because our biggest goal is to love people and grow the business. How we do that is

erates 365 days a year and hours vary seasonally. Tickets can be pre-purchased online at www. aquariumattheboardwalk.com.

Locals from Christian, Douglas, Green, Ozark, Stone and Taney counties in Missouri and Boone County in Arkansas receive a substantial discount at www.aquariumattheboardwalk.com/locals.

There is so much to see and do at this attraction it is impossible to list it all. You need to go see it for yourself.

by loving people. I have loved getting to know the businesses in this area. I love the boots on the ground feel of being with the nonprofits, hearing what they deal with every day, hearing their stories. It’s just very inspiring to be a part of that.”

Now that Chick-fil-A has reopened, at least partially, the employees are back at work, doing what they do best—giving their customers great food and excellent customer service. And the employees at the Main Street location are definitely doing things

right. Business has been so successful that Branson will soon be home to another Chick-fil-A eatery. The second Branson Chickfil-A, to be located on 76 Country Boulevard in Branson’s Theater District, is scheduled to open next year!

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

Gibson Tech Professionals of the Month recognized

Each month, Gibson Technical Center recognizes students for outstanding work. February’s Professionals of the Month are Titan Springer, Fernanda Rosales, and Gabriel Jones.

Computer Technology program.

Gibson Technical Center is part of the Reeds Spring School District and also serves students from 10 other districts in Stone, Taney and Christian counties.

Holllister staff member of the month recognized

The Hollister R-V School District recognized Mrs. Wendy Carrubba at the February board of education meeting as the staff member of the month.

Mrs. Carrubba is a bus driver for the school district and has been teaching sign language to students, teachers and staff.

Springer is a junior from Forsyth who is enrolled in the Computer Technology program.

Rosales is a senior from Bran-

son who is enrolled in the Printing/ Graphic Design program.

Jones is a senior from Reeds Spring who is enrolled in the

Dr. Smith and Mr. Plante shared that Mrs. Carrubba has a heart for children and is generous and giving. “Mrs. Carrubba has a special gift,” Mr. Plante said. “The stu-

dents love her; our district is blessed to have her.”

Hollister Students of the Month recognized

The Hollister R-V School District recognized four students of the month at the February board of education meeting. Students recognized were:

• Hollister Early Childhood Center: Klay Coomber (first grade)

• Hollister Elementary School:

Shaylee Joe (fifth grade)

• Hollister Middle School: Addison Williams (eighth grade)

• Hollister High School: Jazmin Espino (12th grade)

Hollister Teacher of the Month is honored

The Hollister R-V School District honored their teacher of the month, Miss Maggie Barnett, at the February board of education

Springer (Special to Branson Globe)

Rosales (Special to Branson Globe) Jones (Special to Branson Globe)

Carrubba, with BOE Treasurer Chris Kaempfer (Special to Branson Globe)

Williams, Coomber, Joe, Espino (Special to Branson Globe)

SEE SCHOOLS ARE AWESOME, PAGE 27

• SCHOOLS ARE AWESOME

Continued from page 26

meeting. Miss Barnett is a kindergarten teacher at the Hollister Early Childhood Center.

Mr. Waugh, Hollister Early Childhood Center and Elementary School Principal, shared that while Miss Barnett is only in her second year of teaching, she has been making a big impact in this small timeframe! “Miss Barnett is a member of our Hollister School District Master’s in Education Program and has been integral to many projects this group has worked on. She is always giving her all and doing her best to benefit her students and colleagues.”

Hollister Winter Winds take first

The Hollister Winter Winds and Winter Guard traveled to Missouri State University for their first competitive event of the winter season on February 18.

“Les Festin.” Hollister Winter Guard received a Superior Rating for their show “Down in New Orleans” from Princess and the Frog. The groups will travel to Nixa on March 4.

Reeds Spring celebrates Courtwarming

tis, Caden Wiest, Aaden Redburn, Vince Hembree and Trae Turnbeaugh. Reeds Spring Kindergarten enrollment to begin Reeds Spring Primary School will begin to screen and enroll next year’s kindergartners on Monday, March 27. To be eligible, a child must be five years old by July 31.

Please schedule an appointment by calling the Reeds Spring Primary School office at 417-2723241. Please bring the following items with you to the appointment:

• Child’s birth certificate

• Child’s current immunization records

• Proof of residency

Hollister Winds placed first with their Ratatouille-themed show,

Congratulations to the 2023 RSHS Courtwarming Queen & King, Meadow Phillips and Taylor Calzaretta!

Other members of the court include: Morgan Fabre, Rosie Williams, Allisyn Vance, Hannah Pickerill, Shelby Evans and Tessa Hime, Evan Hefner, Lucas Lof-

SEE SCHOOLS ARE AWESOME, PAGE 28

Barnett with BOE Vice-President Jae Jones (Special to Branson Globe)

Winter Winds members Ben Stevens and Katie Linn (Special to Branson Globe)

Winter Guard (Special to Branson Globe)

Phillips and Calzaretta (Special to Branson Globe)

• SCHOOLS ARE AWESOME

Continued from page 27

• All emergency contact numbers These screenings are only for incoming kindergartners. Informa-

tion about early childhood screenings will be shared at a later time.

Reeds Spring Intermediate School Character Students of the Month named

Intermediate School Character Students of the Month include: Leia Smith, Gavin Plumlee, Austin Sloan, Ibrahim Tain, Makenzi Jasso, Ella Reinsch, Chase Fagan, Katie Houtz, Brynlee Halford,

Brennan Butler, Taylor Lanham, and Lyla Mackie.

Reeds Spring students excel at FBLA Conference

Reeds Spring High School students earned 16 medals at the FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) District Leadership Conference, held at Missouri State University on February 7. Eight students qualified for the State Leadership Conference, which will take place in April.

“I am extremely proud of this group of kids,” said FBLA sponsor Ronda Plaster. “They worked really hard to practice their performances and case studies despite all of the bad weather we had the week before the conference. They found ways to practice online and meet in person so that they were ready on the day of the district conference. Many of them had been preparing since last October. I enjoyed getting to see all their hard work pay off and share in their successes.”

RSHS medalists are listed below:

• Evan Brandsma – first in Agribusiness, second in Finance

• Rosie Williams and Faith Jones – first in Broadcast Journalism

• Evan Hefner – first in Digital

Video Production, third in Finance

• Faith Jones and Evan Brandsma – first in Entrepreneurship

• Rylie Lacy – first in Word Processing, second in Publication Design

• Talon Lemoine – fifth in Impromptu Speaking, fifth in Political Science

• Spencer Todd and Marrin McKoy – third in International Business

• Talon Lemoine and Spencer Todd- fourth in Marketing

• Mary Sellers – fourth in Sales Presentation

• Matthew Maher – second in Spreadsheet Applications

• Kaden Colman – third in Spreadsheet Applications

• Skylar Pokorney – fifth in Word Processing

FBLA students (Special to Branson Globe)

Branson Schools announce leadership appointments for 2023-2024 academic year

Submitted to Branson Globe Branson Public Schools are pleased to announce the following leadership appointments effective for the 2023-2024 school year.

extracurricular activities.

“I look forward to joining the team at BHS and am committed to making sure every student has a chance to get involved and find their passions in athletics and activities outside of the classroom,” says Wilson. “I whole-heartedly believe that a well-rounded education includes excellent academics and the opportunities for growth and personal development through extracurricular activities.”

He and his wife, Julie, have two

sons who attend school in the district.

Current Branson High School Assistant Principal, Dr. Anthony Lourenco, has been named the new Director of Transportation, replacing Rob Watson who will retire after 22 years of service to the district and community.

With 18 years in education throughout Southwest Missouri, Lourenco has experience from Webb City and Joplin school districts. He holds a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from Missouri State University and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Southwest Baptist University.

for the district to build upon.”

science teacher at Branson High School, and then served as assistant high school principal with the Cassville School District. Carter is currently assistant principal at Cedar Ridge Intermediate.

“I am thrilled to support the current administration and staff at Branson High School to continue providing a high-quality educational experience to all students,” says Carter.

Dr. Nathan Carter will replace Lourenco as assistant principal.

Carter earned a Bachelor’s degree from College of the Ozarks, a Master’s degree from Missouri State University and a Doctorate in Educational Administration from

Dr. Brandon Wilson has been named the new Activities Director for Branson High School. Wilson replaces David Large, who will retire after nine years with the district. Wilson currently serves as Activities Director for Branson Junior High. He has been with the district for 24 years, with roles including physical education teacher and coach for football, basketball and track at both the junior high and high school levels.

Dr. Wilson is a graduate of Branson High School and received both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Missouri State University, as well as his Educational Doctorate (Ed.D.) degree from the University of Arkansas. Wilson is committed to continuing the district’s tradition of excellence in

“I am honored to serve Branson Schools as the new Director of Transportation,” says Lourenco. “I look forward to working with the staff, students and community to ensure that all students have access to safe and reliable transportation to and from school. I want to thank Mr. Watson for his dedicated service and for leaving such a strong foundation

From 2012-2018, Carter was a

SEE SCHOOL LEADERSHIP, PAGE 37

Wilson (Special to Branson Globe)

Lourenco (Special to Branson Globe)

Carter (Special to Branson Globe)

Hollister School District’s Dr. Kristina Smith receives award

Submitted to Branson Globe Hollister R-V School District’s Special Services Director, Dr. Kristina Smith, has been named the 2023 recipient of the Larry Doyle Outstanding Doctoral Student in Educational Administration Honors Award.

This award, given for service to the School of Education and the university, is awarded to a doctoral student who has achieved high levels of academic success. Dr. Doyle, a professional educator and former Lindenwood School of Education professor, established the award.

In a letter notifying Dr. Smith of her receiving this award, Lindenwood University Department Head of Educational Leadership, Bob Steffes, Ph.D. states, “Without a doubt, you have worked hard to earn this recognition.”

Hollister School Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, Mrs. Sandy Leech, says she and the district couldn’t be more proud of Dr. Smith. “Everyone in Hollister knows the heart and dedication of Dr. Smith to serve her students, her colleagues, the school and our community,”

Mrs. Leech shares. “It is rewarding to see that others notice the greatness in her. She couldn’t be more deserving of this honor.”

Dr. Smith, who defended her dissertation to earn her Doctorate on August 31 shares that she is humbled to receive such an honor. “I had no idea I was being nominated or even considered for this award. I am truly honored,” Smith says. Smith will receive the Larry Doyle Outstanding Doctoral Student in Educational Administration Honors Award at the Lindenwood Honors Convocation Ceremony on April 16.

Smith (Special to Branson Globe)

• ELEVATE RIDES

Continued from page 2

that scooters are already in use worldwide and in some larger U.S. cities. He then introduced Andy Nix, executive director of MyCityRides/Memphis.

Nix opened by stating that most people actually do want to work, but need help removing obstacles. He shared ways to help shift thinking about scooters through training and support, focusing on lowered poverty rates and the sense of empowerment and pride that comes with ownership. Memphis team member Jamhz Jackson shared his own story: a veteran, he was struggling with finding meaningful work and feeling that he belonged. He said his mental health benefited from the sense of ownership and taking control of his finances through lowered transportation costs, and he now serves as a coordinator for the Memphis program.

In addition to Jackson’s story, the presentation featured video testimo-

nials from riders about the ease of use, valuable training, and morale boost, with the largest group of riders being age 40+. As a local example, Stallings showed a map of area communities and said the average annual commute cost from Forsyth to Branson is over $10,000, a discouraging factor for entry-level workers who realize little opportunity to get ahead after expenses. With a 49cc scooter, substantial enough to be safe while getting 89 mpg, and cost of ownership less than $5 per day all-inclusive, it’s possible to provide large numbers of potential employees with a way out of poverty.

A huge key to the program’s success will be Elevate Branson Business Partners. For a monthly investment, these area employers will be able to offer their employees the scooter ownership program including insurance, training, necessary safety equipment, license/tags, and preventative maintenance. The program basics involve applications from qualified employees, training through the Scooter School on the

Elevate Branson campus, a Class M license test, and setting up a payment plan. The program is available to area residents ages 18-plus who hold a valid driver’s license with a clean enough record to meet liability insurance limits and work at least 20 hours per week or attend school fulltime. A rental program will also be available for J1-visa summer workers, provided they complete training and have a valid driver’s license in their home country.

Stallings introduced Charlie Schumacher, president/CEO of First Community Bank of the Ozarks, who has worked with the interest rate and lending market to help keep the program affordable. Schumacher stated FCB is happy to be able to invest in the underserved employee segment of the community. Stallings also thanked the Taney County Commission for their support and recognition that having control of their time and money empowers people to live more fulfilling lives. The program will be overseen by Matt Grindstaff of Elevate Bran-

son along with program director Levi LaFee and service technician

Lonny Hindman, who will also serve on the Scooter School training team along with representatives from area law enforcement.

Elevate Rides/MyCityRides

Branson has potential to be a win/ win situation, as employers can participate in tax credit programs and create employee incentives around improved attendance and

retention. Employees of participating business partners will also receive additional benefits such as access to financial literacy and computer courses, waived enrollment fees for Elevate Work and Elevate Entrepreneurs, and discounts at Neighbors Hub, Elevate Coffee, and the thrift shop. To learn more, call 417-598-0962 or email Matt Grindstaff at Matt. Grindstaff@ElevateBranson.org.

The 49cc scooters are substantial enough to be safe and visible while getting great mpg. (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas)

• BRASCHLER

Continued from page 1

quartet. Most recall Braschler’s powerful renditions of such gospel hits as “The King is Coming” and “The Lighthouse.”

The Braschler Music Show received a number of accolades, including being named Gospel Show of the Year several times, as well as being presented the Branson Family Tradition Award. After 23 years of entertaining Branson visitors, Cliff retired from the music business and the Braschler Show ended in 2007. Ten years later, Cliff received the Pioneer Award for his years of Branson entertainment.

Before moving to Branson in the 1980s, Cliff followed a calling into the ministry and served as lead pastor in two churches in Anderson, Indiana. He later relocated to Tampa, Florida, where he served as lead pastor for seven years before moving to St. James, Missouri, where he also pastored a church.

Cliff’s hobbies included fishing, hunting and spending time with his

family and friends, but one of his true passions was baseball and cheering the St. Louis Cardinals to victory.

The love of Cliff Braschler’s life was his wife and partner of 61 years, Jan, who was always by his side, as they ministered and/or entertained. Cliff was a devoted and loving father to his four children—Sherri Braschler-Weiss, Todd Braschler, Paul Braschler and Rick Braschler. He was grandfather to 21 and a great-grandfather of 12.

Of all of his life accomplishments, Cliff spoke most often of the people he led to Jesus and had the privilege to baptize.

As Branson mourned the loss of such a great man, many friends of Cliff Braschler shared their memories.

“The Braschler Music Show began performing in a theater on Indian Point Road in the mid-1980s,” said Bud Lynn. I was with the Shepherd of the Hills Show at the time. On rainout nights we would go see the other shows in town, such as the Braschler Music Show. It was a

very special, great show that blended gospel and country together with Christian values and family fun and a lot of laughter. After Cliff and his family left the theater at Indian Point, he moved his show over to the Musicland USA Theater on Gretna Road.

I could tell if a show became successful here in Branson it became the talk of the town here, and The Braschler Music Show was truly that. In the mid-1980s Cliff and I were elected to serve on the Branson Area Chamber of Commerce together. Cliff would travel with his family to sold-out performances in towns across the USA. People from all over would drive to see the show and their fans became lifelong friends. Something that I will always remember Cliff saying is ‘I thought I would have a lot of withdrawal pains from the pulpit ministry but the opportunity to minister in a lay position in an area such as Branson and through our music fulfilled every calling I ever had.’ The most important aspect of Cliff Braschler that can be said is that he was a true, graceful and very talented gentle-

man. He remained true to his Christian beliefs.”

Said Branson entertainer and host of ‘The Barber Shop’ Jim Barber, “I first heard of the talented Braschler family when I came to Branson in 1994, but I had no idea that ten years later I would be blessed to get to know the family and work with them on and off stage over the decade that followed. During that time, I had many opportunities to see the genuine love and kindness that Cliff expressed to everyone he met. My best memories of Cliff and his family include getting to ride the famous Braschler bus to Oklahoma and perform as part of their show on stage for a sold-out show, with a wildly enthusiastic audience of fans. In October 2006, Cliff was celebrated after he announced his retirement from the stage. Branson Mayor Lou Schaefer proclaimed it to be “Cliff Braschler Day,’ and Dave Hamner and I prepared a short but hilarious congratulations video in which we ‘shaved our heads’ in his honor. Cliff’s character and his gentle spirit is reflected

in every member of his family, and he will be remembered as one of the most talented, genuine and God-loving residents of our community.”

Branson headliner Doug Gabriel added, “When I first came to Branson in 1985 Cliff Braschler was one of the first people I met. He was a very warm and kind man and I could tell he really loved Jesus. Over the years, I grew to know him better, and he truly was a Branson icon and was instrumental in making Branson into what it is today. He owned and performed in his own show, The Braschler Music Show, and it was always a quality show. He was a family man and loved the Lord. I am glad I will see him again in heaven.”

Lynda Lynn, singer and songwriter shared, “Many years ago, I was blessed to get to know the Braschler family. We had a little French doll house that Mark Trimble designed. I had a small business in this quaint little house and Cliff and his group would come by to visit. At that time, they had a great show, The Braschler

SEE BRASCHLER, PAGE 34

Mel Tillis

TRIBUTE TO MEL TILLIS HELD AT BRANSON CENTENNIAL MUSEUM – Tuesday

Talk held February 21 featured country music star and Branson celebrity Mel Tillis. Tillis family members, and The Stutterettes were in attendance at the event. (Photo by George Kurland)

• REFLECTIONS

Continued from page 7

summary inspires you to further research; the Faith Gateway blog and several other sources give more detail. I wonder if Susanna Wesley was inspired by the Old Testament story of Hannah, who continued to pray even after Samuel’s birth, or perhaps by Paul’s references to a mother and grandmother faithfully

training Timothy. I’m slightly convicted about the mornings I find it hard to schedule an hour, or even half an hour, let alone two! Most of all, I get teary-eyed reading current news about young people spending hours in prayer, as I believe what we are seeing, centuries later, is at least partly the impact of Wesley’s prayers—the power of a praying mother.

• BRASCHLER

Continued from page 32

Music Show, on Indian Point. What I loved about Cliff and Jan was their genuine love for Jesus and the example they expressed to all who knew them. Cliff, a wonderful God guy and pastor, exuded love and grace to all who he came in contact with. What a legacy he left for his children and grandchildren.”

State Representative Brian Seitz noted, “Cliff had an awesome stage presence, without being overly showy. Offstage, he was a kind man who cared deeply about Branson.”

Danny Branson shared his memories. “Like many others, my first memory of Cliff was when my parents took me to see The Braschler Music Show. It was their first season, out on Indian Point. Through the years, he and his wife, Jan, became true friends. He always had a smile on his face and a kind word on his lips. His love for his family and testimony for Christ are the things I admire most. I look forward to seeing him again in heaven one day. It’s hard to think of Cliff without picturing him down on one knee, looking into the lights, singing, ‘The King is coming. . .I see Him.’ Now, he

does!”

Terry Beene, founder of the Terry Awards, has fond memories of Cliff. Said Beene, “Mr. Cliff was so special to me. Our tour company brought them to Texas several years in a row. He always asked me how I was with Jesus. I talked to him many times. He’s the one that led me to the Lord. I love him so much. One of the greatest men I ever met!”

Branson comedian Terry Wayne Sanders had a long history with Braschler. Sanders recalled, “Cliff Braschler became my boss and friend in September of 1987. They needed a comedian and I needed a job! We had a wonderful chemistry together and to be honest, out of my 44 years of being a comedian in Branson, he has been my best straight man, ever! Many peo-

ple consider a job quite simply as that—a job. I love to know the people whom I work for and with. They were a close-knit family and he truly was the patriarch of them all. They were always honest with me and fair, and it was a mutual admiration on both sides. For 17 of their 23year run in Branson, I was honored to be a part of their show and ‘family.’ Thousands of road shows as well as home shows, we collaborated and concocted crazy comedy. Cliff’s laugh was infectious. We might have done the same routine 100 times, but people truly believed it was the first time we had ever done it. Guests would come up after the show and say. ‘Boy, that Homer Lee really got you this time, huh Cliff?’ I had gotten a job offer that I could not refuse and so I had to have a one-on-

one conversation with both Cliff and his beautiful wife, Janice. One of the hardest meetings we ever had. It was truly like leaving family. They were so beautiful and understanding and that meant the world to me and my family. The friendship never ended. Cliff and I would just pick up where we left off the time before when we would see each other. I was so honored to have him and his family make guest appearances on my ‘Homer Lee and Friends One-Time Only’ Shows. Cliff was still game to do whatever I asked of him and he delivered every single time. He was truly a man of God and everyone saw that. When he would sing ‘The King is Coming,’ the audience knew it was from his heart! I will miss his love and friendship and the occasional meeting on the street, but I know he is now on the streets of heaven. Thank you, Cliff Braschler, for loving us all and giving from your heart! Peace be with you!”

Dave Hamner, headliner of Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety Show, had the opportunity to work closely with Cliff Braschler, as well. Said Hamner, “To know Cliff Braschler is to know the Lord. Cliff always pointed everyone to Christ because he loved the Lord in the real sense. No pretense when it came to Cliff’s faith in Christ. We came to the theater, that is now Hamners’ Variety Theater, when I had known it as The Braschler Theater, built for

SEE BRASCHLER, PAGE 36

Continued from page 1

have been entertained by the Fire In the Hole adventure since the attraction opened a half-century ago,” said Brad Thomas, president of Silver Dollar City Attractions. “Today’s riders include grandparents who remember riding when THEY were kids, and now they share the fun and unique experience with THEIR grandkids!”

The ride’s storyline is modeled after the real-life mining town, Marmaros, that was located atop Marvel Cave and home to residents of long-ago Ozarks. The attraction, novel in its introduction in 1972, has fire-brigade themed trains that twist, turn and drop into a burning town where riders are the volunteer firefighters, saving the citizens and battling the flames before getting soaked themselves.

The announcement of the grand finale season coincides with preparation of unprecedented growth slated for the next ten years at Silver Dollar City’s Branson properties. While there is no official word what is ahead, park leadership says they are keenly aware that the iconic ride holds a place in the record books of attractions of the world, therefore, what comes next must carry on the legacy.

Industry experts support the claims. “Fire In The Hole is a true classic from years past – a unique ride that’s a must-ride every park visit,” said Duane Marden, one of

the attraction industry’s key experts and founder of RCDB (Roller Coaster Data Base). “Custom-built, enclosed roller coasters are an uncommon thing and Silver Dollar City has operated Fire In The Hole longer than any other. I’m grateful that Silver Dollar City is giving guests fair notice to enjoy this classic ride for one final season.”

Travelers from all over the world are known to come to Silver Dollar City to notch Fire InThe Hole in their rider logs of classic coasters. Word from one European expert substantiates the worldwide reputa-

tion. “Fire In The Hole is a special ride. As it enters the final season, I feel it should be celebrated for the ground breaking ride that it is. I sincerely hope I can get back to the park for one last ride,” said Justin Garvanovic, founder of the European Coaster Club. “Knowing what a superb park Silver Dollar City is, I fully expect what is coming next will be something very special –wonderful in a brilliant way, as we Brits would say.”

Silver Dollar City, known for pure old-fashioned family fun, opens March 11, with the 2023 sea-

son featuring nine world-class special festivals and events, a demonstrating crafts colony 100 strong, award-winning culinary offerings, entertainment on a dozen stages and 40 rides and attractions.

“This grand finale season of the original Fire In The Hole is paving the way for continued growth and new adventures at Silver Dollar

City,” said Thomas. “There will be exciting announcements in the future!”

Season passes are now on sale at www.SilverDollarCity.com.

Continued from page 34

Cliff and Jan and their family. To say that they opened their arms to us is an understatement. We fell in love with them, their show and their spirit. The Lord was all over the theater, from Jan who ran and still runs the front of the house and all operations, to the family of talented singers and musicians, and finally to Cliff, who sang in each show ‘The King is Coming’ like no other. That’s why they have, over the years, amassed such a huge following of gospel music fans and friends—not just because of their musical talents but because of their love for the Lord that shined through in each performance. Cliff was a pastor friend of mine and filled the pulpit for me when he could, when I happened to be away.

When I was in the hospital, battling kidney stones or having my knee replaced, he would come and lay hands on me, praying for divine help in the operating room, for the staff and for healing. One time, I was having a hip replaced, he called and said ‘Don’t leave town yet. I have to pray over you.’ Surgery was being performed in Columbia. We met up in the parking lot at Walmart. He said he didn’t want us to go without praying for us. Cliff was my pastor here in Branson, and I loved him for caring for all of us. I’ll always remember Cliff’s words, spoken to Denise and me—‘You both are like family to us and mean so much to us. There’s nothing more important in this life

than family, other than the Lord, of course!” I went and saw Cliff in the rehab center. The staff was wonderful there, but he hated it, being away from family. I reminded him of all the souls he touched on this earth, myself being one of them. I said, ‘Life is like a vapor, here for a little while, then vanishes away. Only what we do for Christ in that short time called life is what sticks. There’s going to be plenty of souls in heaven because of you, Cliff Braschler!” He looked up at me, smiled and nodded in agreement.

I talked with Jan the day after Cliff graduated to heaven and told her I believe the Lord took Cliff to glory rather than leaving him in the nursing facility where he missed Jan and the family. We love you Cliff. We will never forget you or what you’ve done for all of us here in Branson. Will be seeing you again soon, my Brother!”

A Celebration of Life for Cliff Braschler will be held on Sunday, March 12, at 3 p.m. at the Crossroads Community Church, 2658 Old Bergman Road, Harrison, AR. Visitation will be held at 2 p.m., prior to the service, in the same location.

In lieu of flowers. the Braschler family asks that you donate to one of the causes near to Cliff’s heart: Todd Braschler Ministries (https:// toddbraschler.com), Kanakuk Ministries (https://kanakuk.com), Crossroads Community Church Ministry (https://crossroadsharrison.org), American Cancer Society (https:// www.cancer.org)

100 Chiefs Cour t, Branson (Hwy. 248 across from former Mel Tillis Theatre)

• BRASCHLER

Southwest Baptist University. Carter and his wife, Janelle, have three children who attend Branson Schools.

Science in Education from Missouri State University, as well as a Masters of Education Administration and an Educational Specialist degree from William Woods University. She and her husband, Byron, have two sons

who attend school in the district. Principal of Branson High School, Dr. Jack Harris, says, “Education is the foundation for success at Branson High School, and we are committed to providing our students with the tools

and opportunities to not only excel academically, but to also develop into versatile individuals who are prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future. I am confident our new administrators will successfully

support our students and staff to create an environment where every student can reach their full potential.”

Wilson, Lourenco, Carter and Strohm will begin their new duties July 1, 2023.

Mrs. Sara Strohm will serve as an assistant principal at Branson High School next school year. Strohm is currently principal for Reed Academy Middle School, part of Springfield Public Schools, where she has served for three years. Prior to joining SPS, Strohm’s educational career included experience as both teacher and coach in the Bolivar R-1 and Seymour R-II school districts.

Strohm says she is honored to join the team at Branson High School and to be a part of such a dynamic and dedicated community. “I believe that every student deserves a supportive learning environment, and I am committed to working with the faculty, staff and families to provide just that. I am eager to get to know our students, learn from our teachers, and be a part of shaping the future of Branson High School,” says Strohm.

Strohm holds a Bachelor of

1:30, 4:30, 7:10

COCAINE BEAR R 1:00, 4:20, 7:00

ANT-MAN & WASP: QUANTUMANIA E 12:30 (2D), 4:00 (3D), 7:00 (2D)

TITANIC 3D E 12:30, 6:30

PLANE R 1:00, 4:00, 7:00

PUSS IN BOOTS W 1:00, 4:00

AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER E 2:30 (3D), 6:30 (2D)

A MAN CALLED OTTO R 12:40, 3:50, 7:20

MARLOWE R 1:00, 3:50, 7:00

KNOCK AT THE CABIN R 12:30, 3:50, 7:00

80 FOR BRADY E 12:30, 4:10, 7:10

M3GAN E 6:50

Strohm (Special to Branson Globe)

Today in history

• 1582 Pope Gregory XIII announces New Style (Gregorian) calendar

• 1868 US House of Representatives vote 126 to 47 to impeach President Andrew Johnson

• 1921 1st transcontinental flight in 24 hrs flying time arrives in Florida

• 1932 Malcolm Campbell sets world land speed record speed of 253.96 mph driving his famous Blue Bird car at Daytona Beach, Florida

• 1942 The “Battle of Los Angeles” takes place, a series of anti-aircraft engagements over the city in response to a rumored but false Japanese attack. It would last until the morning of the following day.

• 1946 General Juan Perón first elected President of Argentina

• 1977 US President Jimmy Carter announces US foreign aid will consider human rights

• 1981 Britain’s Prince Charles announces engagement to Lady Diana Spencer

• 1983 Dow Jones closes above 1100 mark for 1st time

• 2008 Fidel Castro retires as the President of Cuba due to ill health after nearly fifty years

• 2011 Final Launch of Space Shuttle Discovery (OV-103).

• 2013 55th Daytona 500: Jimmie Johnson wins 2nd Great American Race; Danica Patrick first female to start from pole position; also best-ever finish by a woman at Daytona (8th)

• 2020 Former Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein found guilty in landmark case that ignited #MeToo movement

• 2020 Memorial service for NBA star Kobe Byrant held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles

• 2022 Russian leader Vladimir Putin announces the start of a “special military operation” in Ukraine to “demilitarize” the country moments before Russia launches a full-scale pre-dawn invasion by land, air and sea, with bombings in several cities amid international condemnation

Things That Make Us Happy

Things That Make Us Happy

Word find from Beck Museums of Branson

Sudoku

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.

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 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!

GRIEF SHARE SUPPORT GROUP. February 21st. a new class of Grief Share will begin at the Branson United Methodist Church. 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 1:30 p.m.in the church library.

IF MY PEOPLE, WHICH ARE CALLED BY MY NAME, shall humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles

7:14

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 417-5593892

THRIFTY THRUSH vintage, antique furniture. Buy and sell. 105 E. Hensley. Branson 417-545-0194.

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.

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

417-334-9100

OFFICE HOURS: 9am - 5pm

Monday to Friday

FREE GOLDEN RETRIEVER

PUPPIES to forever homes! One male, one female. Excellent temperament! House trained with very good trainable natures and perfect for families with children and other pets. I will not rehome to just anyone. Please email me first at: staceymcclelland8@gmail.com and text 312-270-0850.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

VEHICLE FOR SALE: 2012 Toyota Camry with 80k original miles. Maintenance records available. Asking $8,700 OBO. Call 417-230-0479.

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. 417335-5400. renttoownautosbranson.com

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.

1&2 BR APARTMENTS

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

$575 MONTH & UP

Furnished Units Available, Lakeviews Availabl CALL 417-546-3334

Shepherd of the Hills Estates www.soheapts.com

UPSCALE APARTMENT INCLUDING UTILITIES, TELEPHONE, CABLE INTERNET AND MEALS, FREE! Well, kinda! The Rose House, Branson’s premier senior address, needs a replacement “Night Manager,” capable and willing to provide overnight concierge support to our independent senior residents. The position is ideal for an “early senior” or couple with a responsible/reliable/ profile, whose story will accommodate this “service for benefits arrangement.” Call me if this might be you. John@ therosehouse-branson.com, 417-230-9190. Check out therosehouse@ facebook and website at therosehouse-branson.com.

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

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.

HOME FOR SALE: 2/2 Full baths, open floor plan, blt. 1998, beautiful fireplace, dbl gar., fence, LOCATION! 65 hwy/76, $240k, 520-904-8828

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.

ROOMS FOR RENT

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

OFFICE SPACE

FOR LEASE Office and commercial space on Bus. Hwy 13 in Branson West. Various sizes available. Call 417-248-0062.

HELP WANTED

NOW HIRING FULL-TIME CASHIER and STOCK PERSON. Please apply in person at VP Fuel/Pitstop Gas Station. 1140 W. Country Blvd. 76, Branson.

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

BRANSON SCENIC RAILWAY: Accepting applications for full-time, onboard Train Attendant, Gift Shop Clerk, Reservation Agent, Concession Attendant. This is a SMOKE FREE – NON-TOBACCO USE business. Pre-employment drug screening. Apply in person – No phone calls. 206 E. Main Street, Branson

MR. GILBERTI’S PLACE. Now hiring all positions. Fun, working atmosphere. Come in and fill out an application. 1451 Arcadia Club Rd., Hollister.

POINT LOOKOUT NURSING & REHAB is excited to announce that we are currently hiring RNs, LPNs, CNAs, NAs, CMTs, housekeeping, and dietary staff. We are currently offering a great benefit plan. We acknowledge Covid-19 vaccination exemptions. For more information, call 417-334-4105 or apply in person at 11103 Historic Hwy. 165, Hollister, MO. EOE

Jesusanswered,“Iamthewayandthetruthandthelife.NoonecomestotheFatherexceptthroughme.–John14:6