Branson Globe, March 3, 2023

LORD, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, LORD. Renew them in our day, in our time make them known; in wrath remember mercy. – Habakkuk 3:2

CoxHealth breaks ground for clinic

By CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer

Leaders and staff from CoxHealth, Cox Branson, and businesses around the Branson area braved the chilly wind on Thursday morning, February 23, for a groundbreaking ceremony celebrating the new “super clinic” planned for Cox Branson.

The new facility will be located on 26 acres purchased by CoxHealth just west of the Branson

RecPlex on Branson Hills Parkway. The 30,000 sq. ft. facility will include Primary Care, Urgent Care, Occupational Medicine and Specialty Care, as well as on-site radiology and lab services. It will consolidate family medicine clinics currently located in two separate facilities on Hwy. 248 and allowing for the addition of four new family practice providers.

CoxHealth Senior VP and Pres-

SEE SUPER CLINIC, PAGE 37

March 3, 2023 • Vol. 4, Issue

9

Doing what it takes to keep schools safe in the Tri-Lakes

Submitted to Branson Globe School administrators and SROs (School Resource Officers) from across Taney County came together last week along with the representatives from the Taney County Sheriff’s Office, Hollister Police Department, Western Taney County Fire, Taney County Ambulance District, and the City of Hollister to collaborate, share plans and discuss resources with the goal of doing all they can to keep students and staff of all Taney County Schools safe.

The day began with Hollister Assistant Superintendent of District Operations, Dr. Sean Woods, giving a brief overview of the history of school violence and sharing items that the Hollister School District has implemented and partnerships the district has formed over the past few years to take a proactive approach to school safety.

During the morning, a scenario was presented of a missing student who had yet to arrive home after school. School administra-

SEE

PAGE

Milton shares rationale for reelection

By GARY J. GROMAN, Independent Journalist

Mayor Larry Milton shares his perspective behind his bid to seek reelection.

Karen Best recently announced mayoral intentions, and Larry Milton responds to Best’s comments from a recent news release submitted to the Branson Globe.

The comments in the article follow BEST below, with Milton’s SEE MILTON, PAGE 12

Milton (FILE)

Hollister Chief of Police Preston Schmidt and City Administrator Rick Ziegenfuss discuss the police and city’s plan. (Special to Branson Globe)

Generosity after misfortune: Fishing gear for Skyler

By CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer

Last November, a 10-year-old named Skyler, who lives near Theodosia in southwest Missouri, attended Branson’s Veterans Homecoming Week, meeting veterans and distributing special necklaces he makes as a thank-you for veterans and first responders. When he got back home, though, he found out that some people are not as upright as the ones he loves to honor: While his family was in Branson meeting veterans, thieves stole all of Skyler’s fishing gear that had been stored on the family’s porch. This wasn’t just any old fishing gear. Around age seven, Skyler was horrified to learn that some veterans were not always treated kindly following their period of service,

and soon thereafter, he awakened his parents during the night saying he felt he should do something to help and show appreciation. That started “Skyler’s Fishing Adventures,” and he worked hard to collect equipment so he could invite veterans to go fishing on nearby Bull Shoals Lake.

with donated equipment.

Over the last several weeks, many individuals gave items they no longer needed from their personal collections, including brandnew, slightly used, and even some vintage tackle items plus rods, reels and tackle boxes. Several organizations donated, including employees of Westgate Resort. Some donations were collected in advance; other people came by in person to meet the young man so dedicated to honoring those who serve. Veterans of the Ozarks collected cash donations in order to take Skyler shopping for any items not donated and make sure he has adequate storage for the gear.

Bass Pro Shops heard about Skyler’s misfortune and gifted him with a new rod, reel and tackle box, but more was needed in order to keep doing his trips. Local veterans and volunteers with POW Network determined to help restore not only Skyler’s fishing gear but his faith in people, and on Saturday, February 25, a surprised Skyler arrived at Westgate Resort Branson Woods to find a party in his honor and tables overflowing

SEE GEAR FOR SKYLER, PAGE 34

POW Network Chairman Mary Schantag said that by the end of This HAS to make you smile: Skyler’s family’s vehicle loaded with donated fishing gear (Photo by POW Network)

VOTE: Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife nominated again for America’s Best Aquarium

Submitted to Branson Globe

Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium (WOW) in Springfield, Missouri, has once again been nominated by USA TODAY for the honor of “America’s Best Aquarium.” This is the fifth year Wonders of Wildlife has been nominated, having won the presti-

gious Readers’ Choice Award a record four times, as well as earning “America’s Best New Attraction” in its grand opening year of 2017. Fans are encouraged to vote once per day by visiting wondersofwildlife.org/vote until voting ends at 11 a.m. CST on March 6, 2023.

“We are honored that Wonders of Wildlife has been nominated again

for ‘America’s Best Aquarium’,” said noted conservationist and Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris. “This is another great opportunity to spread awareness of our conservation efforts and to connect people of all ages with the great outdoors. We’re grateful for all our visitors and members and for every one of our passionate volunteers, team members and all

our conservation partners who help us inspire future conservationists.

Your vote for Wonders of Wildlife is a vote for conservation!”

Partnering with respected museum collections and other conservation supporters, Wonders of Wildlife continues to expand its exhibits to showcase and raise awareness of conservation efforts everywhere.

Galleries featuring exhibits from the American Museum of Fly Fishing, the International Game Fish Association’s Hall of Fame, the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame and the Boone and Crockett Club educate visitors about the role of sportsmen and women in conservation. WOW’s newest exhibit hall, SEE WOW, PAGE 35

Pro-Life Day planned for March 8 in Jefferson City

Submitted to Branson Globe

Concerned Women for America

(CWA) of Missouri and Missouri

Right to Life invite Missouri residents to the Keep Missouri ProLife Action Day at the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City on Wednesday, March 8.

Registration is at 10 a.m. in the First Floor Rotunda at the Capitol, 201 W. Capitol Ave., Jefferson City. Attendees will then visit their legislators to encourage them to pass pro-life legislation, and a rally will be held at 12 noon in the rotunda. There will also be a variety of educational booths, a great opportunity to learn more about how to interact

with legislators and educate friends and neighbors about important legislation regarding pro-life concerns.

Former Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler will be the keynote speaker at the rally. As an adoptive mother, Hartzler has long been a supporter of adoption, including easing the process by helping parents cut through red tape that often complicates efforts to get children into permanent families. Both as a State Representative in Jefferson City and as Missouri’s 4th District Congresswoman, she worked to make finding loving families for children a priority.

Several key issues are a priority for this year’s legislative agenda.

Of particular concern are legislation regarding the shipping of abortion drugs into Missouri and legislation that could make it even more expensive for families to adopt. Additional information is available from the Missouri Right to Life State Office, 573-6355110, or at www.missourilife.org.

To get involved on the local level and stay up to date on key issues, consider joining a CWA Prayer/ Action Chapter in your community. The Taney County chapter meets the third Tuesday of each month at Covenant Life Church, 120 N. Third St., Branson; email havenhoward01@ gmail.com for more information.

C of O asks U.S. Supreme Court to uphold its freedom to have sex-specific dorms, showers

Submitted to Branson Globe Alliance Defending Freedom attorneys representing College of the Ozarks asked the U.S. Supreme Court Monday to review a decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit that concluded the Christian College cannot sue the Biden administration for seeking to force the College to violate its religious beliefs.

The appeals court refused to block a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development directive that requires the college to open its dormitories, including dorm rooms and shared shower spaces, to members of the opposite sex or face fines up to six

Pets of the Week

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

figures, punitive damages and attorneys’ fees.

“College of the Ozarks should be free to follow the religious tradition on which it was founded. The government can’t strip a private, faith-based institution of its constitutionally protected freedoms because it disagrees with its views about marriage and sexuality,” said ADF Senior Counsel and Vice President of Appellate Advocacy John Bursch. “If the 8th Circuit decision stands, College of the Ozarks could be forced to choose between violating its religious beliefs or risking intrusive federal investigations and significant enforcement penalties. We

Meet Winston Our March Pet of the month

hope the Supreme Court will take this case to halt the government’s inappropriate order targeting religious institutions and to respect the privacy, dignity and safety of female students.”

The 8th Circuit panel majority’s decision upholds a federal agency action that “skirts the rule of law and undermines our values,” leaving College of the Ozarks “under a sword of Damocles” of threatened agency enforcement, the dissenting 8th Circuit judge wrote.

In effect, the [HUD] Directive would require the College to reverse its housing policies for

SEE C OF O, PAGE 11

Winston is a very sweet 4 month old Aussie-doodle He loves playing outside in the water or taking a walk, especially with other dogs or kids. Winston is also obsessed with ice cubes as well as his toy lobster. After a long day he enjoys cuddling up on his pillow for bedtime.

www.turtlecreekbranson.com info@turtlecreekbranson.com

LICORICE is a 3-year-old male. This quiet boy is no trouble at all. He would like to just sit on your lap all day or be your Netflix buddy. He loves being petted! He tested positive for FIV but he can live a normal happy life as an indoor cat, and the only cat, or with other FIV positive cats. Please come visit him, he’d love to meet you!

PUGSLEY is a 1-year-old male Shepherd/Boxer mix. Pugsley and his adorable litter mates were born at the shelter. They are so sweet and love to cuddle and play. He will make a great addition to your family.

BY LINDA PAGE Entertainment Writer

Twenty-nine years and counting! That’s how long the Hot Winter Fun Big Show has been going. The show is an annual event hosted by the Branson Show League which uses the money raised at this event and other fundraisers to market Branson. Last year’s funds were used, in part, to market Ozark Mountain Christmas and each year the League focuses on something different.

This year’s Big Show was last Saturday afternoon at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater. Joshua Clark, emcee for the event, got things started with a welcome to the large crowd of locals and visitors.

Kicking off the showcase of entertainment this year was that crazy duo “The Blues Brothers.” Jake and Elwood show off their high energy in “Legends In Concert” at the Dick Clark Theater. Also at this venue on Sundays is

Hot Winter Fun at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater

“Legends Of Country” and their own Willie Nelson gave a sample of what you can expect to see.

A big hit was Johnny Lonestar with Hamner’s Variety Theater showing off his mastery of ropes, whips and pistols.

The Hot Hits Theater in downtown Branson provided a sample of several of their shows, including “Motown Downtown,”

“Platters Golden Sounds” and “Patsy to Patsy.”

The Hughes family was well represented by the brothers, spouses and kids of the Hughes Music Show. The Hughes cousins were there also showing a sample of their show called “Re-Vibe.”

The brothers “SIX” gave a small sample of what you’ll get

at their show at Dick Clark’s. Six brothers, six voices and zero instruments make for a lot of music.

Also well represented was Jerry Presley’s God and Country Theater. “Solid Walls of Sound—A Tribute to Elton John,” “George Strait Tribute” and “Tribute To Chicago” can all be seen at the God and Country Theater.

The main event at the God and Country Theater is a new collaboration, “Jerry Presley and The Blackwoods.” Elvis and The Blackwoods have a long history together and this show will reunite these two legends for the first time in many years.

“The Best of Motown and More” will be at the Americana

SHOW, PAGE 33

Elvis and The Blackwoods (Photo by Linda Page) SEE BIG

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Dave Says: I wouldn’t do it that way

Dear Dave, I have an uncle who wants to gift some property to one of his sons, myself and my sister. The property is about two-and-a-half acres, and it’s probably worth around $125,000. My wife and I are trying to pay off debt in Baby Step 2 of your plan, and we’re not sure how we feel about the situation. What do you think?

Dave

Dear Dave,

If your uncle asked me if he should

do this, my answer would be no. The thing is, you’ve got three different sets of people with different lives and very different situations. Not only that, but these three potential co-owners probably have differing ideas about the land and what should or shouldn’t be done with it. To me, the whole thing sounds like a big family fight just waiting to happen.

If I were in his shoes, I’d just sell the property and split the money equally between the three of you. It’d be a lot easier that way, and you’d

avoid the chance of hard feelings between you and your relatives down the road. Don’t get me wrong, your uncle sounds like a kind and generous man. He’s trying to be a blessing to all three of you, but it has a very real possibility of causing unintended problems he may not see coming.

That’s the way I’d handle it, Dave. A couple of acres of dirt split between three people isn’t worth all the squabbles and bad feelings it could cause.

— Dave

Stock Market Insights: Low profits

he said, “it’s the clothes, don’t ever forget it’s those clothes that pay our salaries because they have the biggest profit margin.” Profits matter.

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

Which part of Walmart is the most profitable?” I was a college intern at the Branson, MO, Walmart, and the store manager had just asked me this question. Of course, I answered, “electronics or automotive.” But,

While stocks are up so far this year, they’ve done so with a surprising trend: declining profit margins at big U.S. companies. This is strange because stocks generally go up with higher profits and down with lower profits.

Profits are down because companies face higher material costs to make their products. In the same way, it now costs you more money for the ingredients to make your famous apple pie; it costs companies more to make their products, lowering their profits.

Profit margins of companies in

the S&P 500 fell over 11% last quarter, according to FactSet. Yet, stocks are rallying even though their profitability is being squeezed. Even with the down market in the last couple of weeks, the S&P 500 is up more than 4% this year based on the February 22nd close.

Investors started off 2023 overlooking profits because they expected the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates early in the year. However, in the last few days, investors now expect the Fed to take rates higher and for longer than they hoped.

We had a solid start for stocks this year, and I expect a solid finish, but there might be some difficulty in between. With potential short-term volatility, I’ve

taken some of the early-year gains in the accounts I manage from growth stocks and moved more into value stocks. Value stocks have good valuations and have historically performed better during high inflation and higher interest rates.

One of my most memorable times at Walmart was when the company missed its quarterly profit for the first time in years. The executives chewed out all the managers and made us tape a quarter coin onto our name badge to shame us into focusing more on profits. Maybe we should tape a quarter coin on everyone’s name tag so they won’t overlook profits again. Have a blessed week!

www.FerventWM.com

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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

During a required Old Testament class in college, I grasped the basic symbolism of the Law and the prophets pointing to Jesus, but I didn’t really think about personal applications from those 39 books. Years later, though, studying the Bible with Proverbs 31 Ministries and other groups, I’ve been amazed at the relatability of Old

Reflections: Passing the baton

Testament characters and events. Like Ecclesiastes says, there’s nothing new under the sun.

Deuteronomy records Moses’ final speeches to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. He reviews their history and tells them to expect blessings and provision if they obey God and a sad outcome if they do not. Moses also turns the leadership role over to Joshua, per God’s instructions.

In chapter 31, Moses exhorts Joshua to be strong and courageous. Chapter 32 is Moses’ song of blessing to Israel, but it also warns them what to expect if they disobey. Moses then ascends Mt. Nebo, where he dies after seeing the Promised Land from that vantage point.

That’s always seemed to me a little unfair. After Moses angrily struck a rock rather than obeying God’s

command to speak to it, God didn’t let him enter the Promised Land. I mean, with that bunch of complainers, who wouldn’t get angry?

The reality is, though, Moses was old: 80 when he took the job and 120 when Israel was finally poised to enter the land, even though his eyesight and strength hadn’t diminished (31:7). Perhaps, though, winding down Moses’ leadership time was merciful. When the people entered the land, under Joshua and later the judges, some served God wholeheartedly, but most did not, and they were eventually punished by defeat and exile. Except for that one rock incident, Moses had been faithful, but the job had been tough. Moses was likely ready to rest.

I see parallels between Moses and faithful older people from every

generation. Some remain physically strong longer than others, but it’s eventually time to pass the baton, just as great ministry leaders from my childhood pass on to heaven and new ministries rise up to lead people to Jesus. Even though God could have enabled Moses to keep leading in spite of his age, Israel’s future wasn’t up to Moses. He accepted God’s verdict and graciously handed off leadership with words of encouragement to Joshua.

Most faithful older people don’t consider the work of evangelism complete just because they can no longer physically continue. I’ve seen wonderful leaders step aside for much-deserved rest while mentoring and encouraging younger ones. I still speak, teach, or lead worship when called on, but I also enjoy the teaching of many younger

women. I’m personally privileged to see my son serving as a worship pastor after helping his dad and me when we did music ministry during his high school years. But I’ve also known people who prayed for years or decades for a situation and didn’t live to see God eventually answer their prayers.

In a relay race, the person handing off the baton doesn’t just suddenly stop; the handoff occurs as both runners are moving, just as Joshua learned by assisting Moses and leading the army. The one handing off won’t cross the finish line, but cheers for the one who will. Ministry needs to continue until Jesus returns, and challenges will likely worsen, but it’s not all up to me. I need to keep on working as God leads, while encouraging my kids and grandkids to be strong.

Been Thinkin’ About... Cornflakes and progress

fore still hung in the kitchen, mixing with that of instant black coffee. “What does this feel like? What does this smell like?” Smell is such a potent space for memory. I reach for a box of Post Toasties corn flakes and stop. There are no corn flakes. I don’t eat those anymore.

BY JOSHUA HESTON StateoftheOzarks Media & Design

The refrigerator hummed in the gray light of morning. The smell of meat cooked the night be-

We always ate generic cereal growing up unless there were leftover cinnamon rolls. The old food pyramid said all those carbs were healthy (not that we paid much mind to FDA recommendations).

But breakfast at home was usual-

ly a hurried affair with 2% — and later blueish skim — milk poured into even bluer Melmac bowls and over cheap and unbranded cereal. But not at grandpa and grandma’s. Over in Iowa, breakfast took on a different tone. Grandma would still be wearing her deep green fluffy robe. Grandpa would have finished his morning ritual of shaving with an electric razor while sitting in his creaky armchair. It would be a Saturday morning and we would take our time over breakfast:

Brand-name Post cereal, the oc-

casional package of cherry sweet rolls from Fareway, black “Folger’s Crystals” instant coffee in Melmac cups (these cups were a deep burgundy instead of blue), and no thin 2% milk. In that milk’s stead was rich, luxurious half-andhalf. Breakfast was magical.

Never mind that nearly all aspects of our breakfast were curated by a grand, post-World War II industrial machine of complex brands, packaging and modernity.

For me it is a moment to be remembered lovingly, a simpler time, with

simpler ways and close family. To me, there is a lesson to remember as we are again pushed into another cycle of “progress,” coerced, seduced, or flat-out forced into a dizzying maze of something recently called a “new normal.” The human spirit is surprisingly resilient. And it may not be long before someone else will be talking about today as a fondly remembered memory. It is best we make the most of our moments now. And perhaps pour a bowl of cereal for old-time’s sake.

Breakfast at Tiffany’s: What to do - what to do

BY TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer

This week, Aaron Gravett pinchhits for his college student wife with this essay...

There I was in my office as a pastor and a man was complaining about how God wasn’t opening another job for him. He complained about the job he had for at least thirty minutes. At the end I asked him two questions: have you made a resume and sent any out, and are you filling out any applications? The answer to both questions was “no.”

There’s an old farmer’s saying that says, “Pray like it’s all up to God and work like it’s all up to you.” That’s a very good quote that

applies to almost every area in life. One of the biggest things we need to pray about though is this: Is the change we are seeking, God’s will for our lives?

Maybe you are there with decisions to make and changes you want to see. Most of us have done Benjamin Franklin’s “T” graph of pros and cons. That does help a lot, but what about God? You see, in every decision we have to ask, “What will bring glory to God through my life in the big picture?” How will a decision you make now affect what you

know God wants to accomplish later? For example, if you know God wants you to be a surgeon, skipping class and getting “Fs”—even in high school–would not be a beneficial decision. So what does God want you to do? Look at the big picture and in light of that, make your decisions today. Live life for His glory.

“Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.” Psalm 37:4-5

The biggest things are to pray and

search God’s word, and through that you will be delighting in the Lord. You will learn to commit to Him and trust Him. In that, His desires will become the desires of your heart!

Then when you know what to do, take the first steps today in that direction. Then the next step after that! Let God direct you and you will see wonders! Just remember, Christ is walking with you!

So, if you have lost hope in what you know are your God given dreams—start walking. That’s “what to do!”

BY PAT LAMB Columnist

We make a mistake as parents, teachers and grandparents when we believe that children will act and respond in the same way that we do. God created each of us uniquely and each person is born with dominance in particular intelligences. That dominance influences the

Train Up a Child: Some children are picture smart

way we think and act. Sometimes children are born with the same dominant intelligences as their parents, but often they are not.

Experts in the field of personality have isolated seven intelligences of humans. They are verbal/linguistic, logical/mathematical, visual/spatial, musical/rhythmic, body/kinesthetic, interpersonal and intrapersonal. These intelligences are also known as word smart, numbers smart, picture smart, music smart, body smart, people smart and self smart.

Picture smart children are those who have a sense of spatial relationships. They think in images and pictures. They are often

aware of colors, shapes, objects and patterns in their environment. They have strong opinions about colors that go together, textures that are appropriate and pleasing, and decorating. They can “see with the mind’s eye.” They can pretend and imagine. They are our artists. When teaching children who are dominant in the spatial/visual intelligence, we need to give many opportunities for graphing, drawing, working with clay or other mediums. Using posters and charts will be the most effective way of presenting material. They are definitely visual learners. Appealing bulletin boards in classrooms are very effective.

Since they are good at “seeing with the mind’s eye,” they will be able to visualize scenes and act them out. Role-playing past times in history helps in reinforcing learning in history lessons.

Color coding parts of written material with highlighters is effective as well.

Children who are dominant in the visual intelligence may grow up to be an engineer, surveyor, architect, artist, graphic designer, photographer, inventor, pilot, layout editor, designer, interior decorator, or any career requiring skills such as drawing, painting, visualizing, creating visual presentations, graphing or filming.

It is interesting to observe chil-

dren for behavioral characteristics that are clues to dominant intelligences. Many of the Navajo children that my husband and I were privileged to teach displayed dominance in spatial intelligence. I recall an incident while teaching second grade on the Navajo reservation when I asked the children to draw a picture about a field trip we had taken. One little boy drew a school bus on a road with puffs of dust coming up from behind the exhaust. There was a tree with a squirrel and bird in it watching the bus go by. A little rabbit was peeking from behind the tree watching the bus. Children were waving out the windows of the bus and the sun had a smile on its face. I was astonished at so much detail in this one picture. He was definitely picture smart. Most Navajo children that I taught seemed to have the same love for art. Some children do well to draw a stick house with a tree and a sun. When a young child puts a lot of detail in drawings, it is probably an indication that there is some dominance in the visual/ spatial intelligence.

It is nice that we have different personality tendencies. It certainly makes the world more interesting. It is of great value to understand these characteristics of children to better prepare them for their future.

BY LAURI THOMPSON, Columnist

Ido not have a creative bone in my body,” my friend Cathy insisted. I told her how strongly I disagreed, but she dug in her heels and I never did convince her otherwise.

May I explain my position on this subject? First, every one of us is created in the image of God. Logic tells me that (a) if we were made in His image or likeness and (b) He was astoundingly creative in making the universe, then (c) we are creative, too. Every last one of us.

you for reading the

God was the first artist. Everything He created, Edith Schaeffer said in her book “Hidden Art,” has a purpose, but it is also a form of art. Think of the intricacy of snowflakes, the motion and sound of a tree blowing in the breeze, the grandeur of mountains He sculpted out of stone. He was the first landscape artist in the Garden of Eden.

Art takes many forms

Art includes many things, Mrs. Schaeffer makes clear in her classic book: films, drama, graphic design, songwriting, flower arranging, painting, sewing, architecture, needlework, interior decorating, choreography, photography, writing -- and anything else we come up with that uses our creativity.

God blesses us with gifts and talents in part simply for our own enjoyment. Sometimes they are meant to be used in worship of Him. In my own case, I like to write about many topics, but one

of my favorites is a personal relationship with Christ and how down-to-earth and practical the Bible is.

I like to remember that the Old Testament includes poets and songwriters, and that many artisans worked on the Temple using jewels and gold. Dancers used their talent to praise God. In Proverbs 31, women are complimented for using various skills, including working with fabric.

Find your talent and practice

You may have entirely different interests, goals and purposes than me, and that’s A-okay, but no matter what, please don’t say “I’m not creative.” If it’s not already obvious to you, then spend a bit of time looking for your talent or skill by trying out things.

Then put in some effort: if necessary, take a class, practice, learn and show a little confidence in yourself. Do not get easily discouraged -- and do not compare

yourself to others. I love writing, but I know there will always be many who are better writers than me. That does not stop me from using my gift.

By the way, those of you who show ingenuity (and sometimes even a pioneering spirit) by coming up with novel workarounds

and surprising solutions, guess what? You are showing creativity, too.

Innovation and originality are in your DNA, all of you, so fan those creative sparks. You will be happier and more fulfilled, and the world will benefit from you using your talent.

Everyone is creative, so use your talent

Thank

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

These last two weeks in the Capitol have been very busy as we continue hearing bills in committee and on the floor. My House Bill 367, dealing with civil actions involving sexual abuse, was heard in the Judiciary Committee. This bill creates a cause of ac-

Capitol Report: Busy weeks at the Capitol

tion for vulnerable victims, defined as a person or persons who were disabled, a minor, or both at the time he or she was a victim of sexual abuse. The bill allows a vulnerable victim to bring a civil action against any party who committed sexual abuse against the victim or whose tortious conduct caused the vulnerable victim to be a victim of sexual abuse. The action must be brought prior to the victim turning 55 years old.

Part two of the bill allows for a civil action that was barred or dismissed due to a statute of limitations to be revived, within the confines of the legislation.

Witnesses testifying in favor of the bill, came from not only Mis-

souri, but traveled from numerous states to address the committee. The presentations were heartfelt and enlightening. Many who were abused as children spoke of their lives following the horrific acts and I assured them that their voices were being heard.

I presented House Joint Resolution 15 in the Ways and Means committee, addressing the issue of Property Taxes for certain seniors. The resolution declares that no individual who is sixty-five years of age or older shall be subject for any property tax…if the individual has a taxable income of less than forty five thousand dollars (per year). Property taxes vary from state to state, but the calculation process is more or less the same. A county assessor will assess your property value based on the current market rate in your area. Applying your area’s property tax rate to the assessed property value results in

your property tax. Seniors struggle with property taxes because they tend to grow over time, while seniors’ income stays the same.

Lowering or eliminating the property tax rate for low income Missouri seniors would help the most financially vulnerable, and may in fact see other seniors from across the United States want to move to Missouri. We want to show seniors that here in Missouri, they can live the quiet, peaceful lives that we all hope to live in our golden decades.

I also presented House Bill 171 in the Transportation Accountability Committee.

The legislation is an attempt to change the apportionment and distribution of motor fuel taxes, to provide more benefit to high-tourism destination across the state, using the Branson area as a model. Currently 15% of the motor fuel tax is apportioned to cities. Based

on the 2020 census, Branson’s population is close to 12,600, and yet nearly 10 million visitors come on a yearly basis! My attempt is to see average daily hotel and motel occupancy rates figured in to calculate a more accurate apportionment.

Finally, HB 183, sponsored by Representative Jamie Burger, dealing with saving women’s sports, passed via executive session, and I played a large part in making sure that colleges and private schools (as found in my HB 170, the Save Women’s Sports Act) were included in the bill. The legislation is all about protecting the fair and competitive balance of women’s sports and I am proud to have championed that effort.

As always, I will fight for our shared values in Southwest Missouri, and the 156th District that I have the pleasure to serve.

Need to contact my office?

Please call my office at 573751-1309 if we can ever be of assistance to you or stop by our office in Jefferson City in room 118. I or my legislator assistant are happy to help.

For truth, justice and the American Way! I am here to serve.

Brian H. Seitz State Rep.,

156th District

201 W. Capitol Ave., Room 118, Jefferson City, MO 65101 Telephone 573-751-1309

KATHY SUSAN BUCKLEY, Kathy Susan Buckley, age 72, of Hollister, Missouri, passed away February 22, 2023. She entered this world May 30, 1950, in Beaufort, South Carolina, the daughter of Hallie and Rosemary (Hancock) Avant. She was joined in marriage September 6, 1969, to Jerry Buckley.

Kathy was as a kind and generous person who lived life as a shining example of Christ’s love and service to others. During her working years, she was a tax preparer for 21 years in California. After moving to the Ozarks, Kathy

volunteered at Options Medical Clinic in Branson. She was a former member of the Branson Fire & Rescue Dept Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and was a current member of the Branson Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association (BCPAAA). She loved living in the Branson area as she expressed, “I am so blessed to live here.” Kathy and Jerry joined Woodland Hills Family Church. She was a prayer warrior for many, even if they didn’t know it. Kathy’s joy overflowed in her love for entertaining, be-

C OF O

Continued from page 3

1,300 students. If the Directive is enforced, it could require the College cease statements of its policies, preventing it from following through on ongoing plans and communications for student housing consistent with its religious beliefs. If the current ruling stands, it could jeopardize the College’s ability to function, cause emotion-

al harm to students who rely on the College’s housing policies, and dissuade Christian students from attending the College, the petition filed with the U.S. Supreme Court explains.

The link to the petition may be accessed here: 25306 ADF COVER Petition.pdf (windows.net)

Further, the petition notes that, “The [HUD] Directive forces the College to choose immediately

between three injuries: (1) obey the government and abandon the College’s religious policies and speech; (2) refuse the government and risk crippling investigations and penalties; or (3) cease providing student housing.”

The lawsuit, College of the Ozarks v. Biden, opposes the HUD directive and the executive order requiring it. The order, issued to all federal agencies, requires them

ing well known for her tea parties and yearly Christmas parties. She made each friend and guest feel included while creating a treasured time with food, laughter, and memories. Most of all, Kathy adored her kids and grandkids and cherished her relationship with her Savior, Jesus Christ. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, and brother, Richard Avant.

She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Jerry Buckley; three children: Robert and Kim Buckley

to redefine sex discrimination in all federal statutes to include sexual orientation and gender identity. The lawsuit explains that the HUD directive contradicts the clear wording, meaning and historical interpretation of the Fair Housing Act, which confirms that “sex” means biological sex. The suit also argues that the agency violated procedural requirements by not allowing public notice and

of Nine Mile Falls, Washington, Valerie and Greg Skeen of Concord, California, and Angel Buckley of La Puente, California; and six beloved grandchildren.

A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 9, 2023, at Woodland Hills Family Church, 3953 Green Mountain Drive, Branson, Missouri, with Pastor Ted Cunningham officiating. Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Cremations of the Ozarks. To leave an online condolence, please visit www. cremationsoftheozarks.com.

comment, and that the directive violates the constitutional right of College of the Ozarks and similar religious institutions to operate consistently with their religious beliefs.

Alliance Defending Freedom is an alliance-building, nonprofit legal organization committed to protecting religious freedom, free speech, parental rights, and the sanctity of life.

Continued from page 1

response following MILTON.

BEST: I am concerned about the monies allocated to protect the wastewater treatment plant.

MILTON: In a recent article in the Branson Globe, Branson Utilities Director Kendall Powell points out “that the city has two wastewater treatment plants, the Compton Drive Plant and the Cooper Creek Plant. The Cooper Creek Plant handles the wastewater south of Highway 76 and the Compton Drive Plant, the wastewater north

of Highway 76. Currently, there is no way to switch the wastewater load between the two plants.

If the Compton Drive Wastewater Treatment Plant were to flood and become inoperable, it would have drastic environmental and economic impacts on the area north of Highway 76, including the entire north side of the Branson Strip.”

“I think it’s an excellent allocation of monies to protect Branson from the potential impacts should the plant fail. In addition, the funds to prevent this from happening came from approximately $12 million in GRANTS and $3 million from taxpayer dollars.

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BEST: Best released a press statement stating she was running because she was approached by business leaders, citizens and city staff to ‘bring back stability’ to the city government.

MILTON: It’s hard to respond to conclusions not backed up by fact. Fair questions to ask are, “Who are the business leaders, citizens, and city staff asking her to run for office? Do they want City Hall to return to the way it was? Really?

BEST: Best’s release said “honesty, integrity and civility need to be restored to the office of the Mayor.” Regarding times of dishonesty, she referred to the hiring process of City Administrator Cathy Stepp.

MILTON: Recently retired Director of Public Works, Keith Francis, has addressed the impression among some in the community of upheaval at City Hall, and department heads being frustrated with new city leadership, as a driving force for retirements or people leaving city jobs.

Francis said, “The change in city leadership has absolutely nothing at all to do with my retirement. I heard

rumors of that on the street…The aldermen, I feel have a good relationship with them, with the mayor, and with our new city administrator. The city of Branson is going in a positive direction…Cathy has been wonderful, absolutely great …I have no qualms about Cathy in any way, shape, form or fashion. She’s been very supportive of all the staff here, not only the directors, but the other staff as well. Absolutely great to work with and great to work with us if we have budget questions or a new project which would be different but make things better around here… She’s always after more positive input, what we can do, what we see needs to be changed, to make things better for people.”

BEST: In her release, Best states “The Welcome to Branson culture has diminished at City Hall due to changes in personnel at the leadership level and discord at the Board of Alderman level. These tensions are felt by businesses wanting to move to Branson. They watch or attend a few board of alderman meet-

ings, and they quickly decide this is not where they want their business.”

MILTON: Again, it’s hard to respond to conclusions not backed up by fact. Fair questions to ask are, “Who are these businesses wanting to come to Branson who “watch or attend a few Board of Alderman meetings and they quickly decide this is not where they want their business?” This Board approved hiring a new position named “Consumer Advocate.” This position represents the homeowners, business owners and contractors and reports directly to the City Administrator. It’s truly a “Consumer Advocate” knocking down the walls at City Hall!

BEST: Best said she would work to fill job vacancies to create stability to gain grant funding.

MILTON: As noted above, the City of Branson is doing very well with obtaining grants. He also points out that with the hiring of Lisa Rau as Communication Director, Eric Schmitt as Police Chief, Hillary Briand as City Clerk, Baker Tilly as Finance Director, Michael Woods, Public Works Director, and the search for a new Planning and Zoning Director well underway there’s not a lot of positions left to fill.

Milton says, “We are a bigger city than we think. We have a $1.3 billion economy and 10 million annual visitors. I recently discovered that the city’s current accounting software dates back to the 1990s, during the

SEE MILTON, PAGE 35

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.

Mochas and Meows reopening set for March 8

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

Mochas and Meows, Branson’s Cat Cafe, will soon celebrate a grand reopening.

Located in the Falls Village Shopping Center, Mochas and Meows opened in November of 2019. The unique attraction offers a fabulous selection of delicious specialty hot and cold beverages and smoothies, as well as delectable pressed sandwiches they refer to as Purrninis. Visitors may spend time in the cat lounge, interacting

with the stars of Mochas and Meows—the cats—all available for adoption.

Mochas and Meows recently acquired space adjacent to their original location and have undergone a major expansion, allowing much more space in the cat lounge, as well as the coffee shop. Currently closed for the renovation, Mochas and Meows is set to reopen on March 8.

“When we reopen, we are going to be bigger and better than

ever,” noted Mochas and Meows owner Mary Trexler. “I have so many amazing things coming for, not only this season, but going forward. The new space has opened up a whole new world of opportunities for us.”

Mochas and Meows will celebrate their grand reopening with a ribbon cutting on Wednesday, March 8, at 12 noon. Mochas and Meows is located at 3265 Falls Parkway, Suite V, in the Falls Shopping Center.

New, much-needed music store opens in Hollister

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

SW Music Source is now open, offering music equipment, supplies and even lessons.

“We offer guitars, amps, PA gear, lighting, strings, sticks, drum heads, drum kits, etc.,” noted owner Tim Martin. “We also have lessons for guitar and bass at this time, adding keyboards and drums soon.”

Martin moved to the Branson area

two years ago from Poplar Bluff, where he also had a music store.

“We saw a need for local musicians to have a store to shop without going to Springfield,” Martin explained.

Martin truly understands the needs of musicians. A professional musician himself, Martin performs regularly at Jerry Presley’s God and Country Theater.

Find SW Music Source at 111 St.

James Street in Hollister. Hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Wednesday and Friday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

For more information on SW Music Source, give them a call at 573-776-3079 or visit their website, SWMusicSource.com. They can also be found on Facebook.

“Please come out and visit us and watch us grow,” said Martin.

A sneak peak at the newly expanded Cat Lounge at Mochas and Meows (Special to Branson Globe)

The Brook Wellness Center to offer trafficking prevention training

By CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer

The monthly prevention focus for March at The Brook Wellness Center is human trafficking, with several learning opportunities scheduled. Trafficking prevention training will be held on Friday, March 24, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This important training will be held in person at The Brook, 11016 St. Hwy. 76, Branson West, and a Zoom link is available for those who cannot attend personally. Meeting ID is 280 917 0839,

and password is yft89k. RSVP and register by email at rosie@thebrookwellnesscenter.org, or visit www. thebrookwellnesscenter.org/2023events/html. Clinician for the free training event will be Dawn Day, RN, BSN, SANE-A. Day serves as Sexual Assault Program Coordinator and Trauma Nurse Clinician for Mercy Hospital in Springfield.

Human trafficking is modern-day slavery through the abuse of women, men, or children for their bodies and labor. By definition, any time

people are exploited for commercial purposes through the use of force, fraud, or coercion, it’s trafficking. An estimated 40.3 million people are enslaved worldwide, more than any other time in history.

A surprising amount of trafficking occurs right here in the United States, and Missouri currently ranks eighth in the nation in calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline. In southwest Missouri, some trafficking involves youth being forced to participate in sexual acts or labor involving drugs. Initial contacts are often made online, with that risk factor increasing during stay-at-home pandemic restrictions.

“During my time as program coordinator, I have cared for many

victims of assault, and during discussion, discovered that many of the assaults fit the definition of trafficking,” said Day in a press statement. “It’s here in our communities, and it’s hiding in plain sight. Please join me on March 24 to learn more about this pandemic. Discussions will be held on what trafficking looks like in our communities and how to combat it.”

Additional opportunities to learn more about this tragedy happening right in our backyards will be held via Facebook video chat. On Friday, March 17, at 6 p.m., The Brook’s “Let’s Chat” segment, held the third Friday of every month, will focus on human trafficking awareness. “Learning with Stan,”

hosted monthly by Stan Robinson, will be March 30, also at 6 p.m. on Facebook. Follow The Brook Wellness Center Facebook page for updates and future events.

The U.S. State Department and ICE offer additional resources to help educate the public about trafficking, including The Polaris Project, named after the North Star guiding slaves to freedom during the Underground Railroad era. A big key to combating this evil is the motto of “if you see something, say something,” so don’t miss these valuable opportunities offered by The Brook to learn how to be more vigilant. Learning and working together can help protect the vulnerable in our communities.

Stone County nonprofits: Apply now for Rotary Club grants

Submitted to Branson Globe

The Rotary Club of Table Rock Lake is accepting applications from Stone County nonprofit or-

ganizations interested in receiving grant money.

“The club’s goal is to enrich the health, education, welfare and fitness of the Stone County community,” said Rotary Club member Ben Fisher.

Grant requests can be up to $1,000. Only one application will be accepted per organization. Finalists must give a short presenta-

tion to the club explaining how the money will be used. Rotary Club will review the applications and select five winners.

The deadline to apply is Thursday, May 25. Applications can be found at https://rebrand. ly/2023-Rotary-Grants, or you can look for the link on the Rotary Club of Table Rock Lake Facebook page.

By K.D.

Chili cook-off raises money for area charities

Held at the Branson Lions Club, the chili cook-off is one of the organizations’ main fundraisers, providing monetary means for them to help other nonprofits in our community. Past recipients of funding from the chili cook-off include Taney County Crisis Center, Child Advocacy Center, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Options Pregnancy Clinic, Boys and Girls Club, Salvation Army and the College of the Ozarks Scholarship fund. Ten restaurants or organizations competed for the bragging rights of Branson’s Best chili. Those par-

ticipating were Mr. B’s Ice Cream Parlor, Western Taney County Fire Department, Taney County Sheriff Department, Famous Dave’s BBQ, Branson Humane Society, Hollister Rotary Club, Bob Evans, Elevate Branson, Branson Cafe and the Branson Daybreakers Rotary.

“These restaurants and groups are donating their time and chili to make this event a success,” said a Branson Daybreakers Rotary Representative.

Attendees placed a cash vote in the box in front of the restaurant

or organization serving what they deemed was the best chili. At press time, no Rotarian could confirm the winner of the chili cookoff.

The day’s event also included a 50/50 drawing, raffles for several items, a silent auction and a live auction.

The Branson Daybreakers Rotary wishes to share their appreciation to the Branson Lions Club for the use of their building, Price Chopper for furnishing soft drinks, and Country Mart for providing baked goods.

Central Taney County Fire to equip first responders with AEDs, possible through Skaggs Foundation

Submitted to Branson Globe

Sudden cardiac arrest can happen at any time without warning, and minutes count. The quicker an automated external defibrillator (AED) is used on a cardiac arrest patient, the better the chances are that the patient will survive.

In eastern and central Taney County, oftentimes the first on the scene of a medical call is a Central Taney County Fire Protection

District first responder. It’s this reason that Skaggs Foundation has awarded Central Taney County Fire Protection District with a $27,068 grant to equip their responders with AEDs.

“Our first responders live throughout our district and can ideally arrive

on a scene of a medical call several, potentially life-saving minutes before ambulance service,” explained Rebecca Murphy, a firefighter with Central Taney County who applied for the grant. “Our furthest response area to the closest ambulance station is 17 minutes.”

Skaggs Foundation Director of Community Relations Mindy Honey said the foundation is honored to fund the request for 15 AEDs, knowing these AEDs can cut response time.

“Those minutes can be lifesaving,” Honey said. “It absolutely made sense to get these devices into the hands of people who will likely be first on the scene of a medical emergency.” For more information or to apply for a grant, see SkaggsFoundation.org.

MICHAELS, Staff Writer

The Branson Daybreakers Rotary Club held their 18th annual chili cook-off on Saturday.

Branson Daybreakers Rotary Club hoped to take home top honors in the annual chili cook- off. (Photo by K.D. Michaels)

Branson Duck Tours ready for 2023 season

By CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer

Branson Duck Tours is excited to be opening Friday, March 10, for their second season in Branson. Guests will enjoy a oncein-a-lifetime experience as they journey through the streets of Branson singing songs, hearing jokes and Ozarks tall tales, and learning about local history; then setting sail on Lake Taneycomo to head toward downtown Branson and the famous Branson Landing Fountains for one of the most memorable events of their vacation.

Branson Duck Tours is a new, family-owned company and unrelated to previous duck boat tours in Branson. Looking for a change from living in the Memphis, Tennessee, area, owner Jaredan Braal said Branson seemed like a natural

choice for fun and scenery; both he and co-owner/partner Richard Corby had enjoyed visiting, and Corby’s family had already moved to the area. They emphasize that the goal of Branson Duck Tours is to provide other families with a safe, fun experience.

While recognizing that duck boat tours were a fun part of visiting Branson for many years, Braal and Corby also realized they needed to address the safety concerns guests would understandably have following the tragic 2018 accident involving a duck boat on Table Rock Lake. Braal emphasized that safety of guests and employees is the top priority, and to achieve that goal, Branson Duck Tours uses a new style of amphibious vehicle specifically designed for safe landand-water tours.

Amphibious buses of the style

used by Branson Duck Tours are safely operating in at least 27 countries worldwide. The Coast Guard-approved vessels have revolutionary, positive-buoyancy, foam-filled compartments, which operate similar to a giant life preserver. The engine is centrally-mounted for stability, and no wires, machinery, or fluids run through the foam compartments. Improved safety features and procedures include easily accessible escape doors and aisle widths, and adherence to all Department of Transportation and U.S. Coast Guard regulations including a rigorous inspection regimen. Personal flotation devices are required at each seat and available in adult and children’s sizes. More information about the amphibious buses, including important differences from the World War II-style DUKWs and links to safety studies, is available at the Branson Duck Tours website.

The Branson Duck Tours team is also looking forward to welcoming guests to their updated store, located at 1940 W. 76 Country Blvd. Find ticket information along with the 2023 schedule and book your tour at www.bransonducktours.com, or call 417-5989099.

Last year was the inaugural season of Branson Duck Tours. (Photo submitted by Jaredan Braal)

Reader’s Corner: Newly released novel, ‘The Ballad of Johnny Bell’

Thank you to Stephen Barnett of 417 Books for this review of a book I can’t wait to read! - Cindy The Ballad of Johnny Bell, By John Mort. Cornerpost Press 2022. p. 266 $14.95

“The Ballad of Johnny Bell,” a new novel released by Cornerpost Press this past fall, is a coming-ofage story of 16-year-old orphan boy trying to find his way in the Ozark Mountains during the final years of

the Vietnam War. Recently being deposited on long-forgotten family land, Johnny finds himself alone in one of the memorably harsh Ozarks Winters. Like most young people, Johnny struggles to find his way in

a place he only recognizes from stories told and the strange echoes of his deceased father and mother. It is only through the kindness of seeming strangers that Johnny survives and begins to find his belonging.

Johnny Bell experiences all the typical coming-of-age events expected of a young man in the late 1960s/early 1970s. Fast cars, pretty girls, first experiences with drinking, smoking and death all test and train Johnny throughout the story. But John Mort’s talent shows through in the events, landscapes and language of the Ozarks. The story is filled with believable supplemental characters as folksy as the region itself. As anyone who has hiked in the Ozarks Hills can attest, despite the booming tourism trade, the landscape of the Ozarks is still the star attraction. Mort masterfully weaves the rocky ground and unique sounds of the hills to immerse his story in

a quiet but ever-present supporting cast member.

Although the basic story premise feels simplistic, this quick read is worth the experience for those familiar with the Ozarks region. The pitch-perfect voice and dialect given to the characters, and the familiar sights of the small county seats will give most readers a sense of nostalgia. The book ends with Johnny finally making his own truly independent decision, free of influence or manipulation, completing Johnny’s literary adolescence. Hopefully John Mort will give us another installment.

Stephen Barnett is a resident of Taney County, owner of 417 Books at 105 S. Commercial St. in downtown Branson, and teaches history at Missouri State University. Follow 417 Books on Facebook, or check out the selection in person at 417 Books, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays through Mondays.

Too good to be true

By Stephanie Callahan, Owner/Lightspeed Electrical

Every year there is some miracle product advertised that can solve all of your problems. We see those in the electrical industry, and they are advertised with promises to lower electric bills, monitor for safety, protect against dirty power, or provide surge protection. Their operation looks low maintenance and user friendly - just plug a small device into one outlet. Here is what you should know before wasting your money on some new ‘miracle’ product.

1. Beware of unfamiliar terms that sound negative or scary. When you ask your electrician, you may be surprised to find that those words are made up, overemphasized, or refer to issues that rarely occur or afflict residential electrical systems (like ‘dirty power’).

2. Know that you are probably buying a small plastic box with a capacitor (filter) and an LED indicator light. Ask yourself how something this small and inexpensive could possibly monitor/protect/ balance the complex electrical system in your home from one random outlet. If this seems impossible, it likely is.

3. Understand how advertising works. Small, inexpensive items that are mass marketed via the internet can turn a huge profit over a short period of time (for an unknown company that disappears quicky). Overpriced ‘premium’ miracle products may be sold with high pressure at an in-home consultation…after the company bought a room full of people a steak dinner and created a NEED with a convincing presentation.

4. DO YOUR RESEARCH!

As with anything, if you want the truth about a product or company, look up unaltered reviews from honest sources: Google, Better Business Bureau, or Consumer Reports. There are many smart and affordable ways to invest in the efficiency and safety of your home. Before you make an impulse buy on a gadget that sounds too good to be true, ask your electrician how (or if) it can do the things it promises. The team at Lightspeed Electrical is always available to answer your questions. Phone 417-239-5050.

Stephanie Callahan, Owner/Lightspeed Electrical

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

Branson HS Job Olympics: Employment is for everyone

Branson High School will hold its Job Olympics on March 23, 2023. Job Olympics is not only a fun and engaging activity with friends, but also a pivotal part of transition to a post-secondary lifestyle. Job Olympics provides an opportunity for students with developmental disabilities to showcase their talents to potential employers. Often, students with significant needs struggle to realize their vast array of options after graduation. These students possess an immense amount of potential –Job Olympics is an avenue for students to harness their abilities and show employers they are ready for the workforce!

This ever-growing program involves over 100 students from eight

different schools and 50 jobs to choose from. Throughout the day, students compete in events such as bussing tables, stocking shelves, paper shredding, animal care, bagging groceries, hotel housekeeping, data entry, custodial skills and many more. We design each area to be as realistic as possible. The goal of these events is to engage students in a wide variety of job skills that play to their strengths.

Job Olympics offers students a way to express themselves while engaging in friendly competition with their peers. The pride students have in their job accomplishments is reflected by the smiles on their faces throughout the day.

This is the fifth year to host this exciting event, and it is held at the Branson High School gym. Registration is from 8-8:30 and the

awards/closing ceremony is 11:3012:35. Lunch is served immediately following the awards ceremony. For more information, contact Tracy Hall, 417-872-8335 or Hallt@branson.k12.mo.us.

Branson School District opens preschool registration, offers tours Branson Public Schools preschool registration for the 20232024 school year is now open. To be considered for placement, children must reside within the boundaries of Branson School District, turn three or four years old on or before July 31, 2023, and complete a free developmental screening through the Parents as Teachers program.

Interested parents and guardians should complete the 2023-2024 Preschool Interest Form by visiting our district website at www.branson. k12.mo.us. After submitting the Pre-

school Interest Form, families will receive an email with an invitation to schedule a screening appointment.

Two tours will take place March 7 at 6 p.m. and March 20 at 10 a.m. All families living within the Branson School District with children ages three or four by July 31, 2023, are welcome to attend. Cedar Ridge Primary is located at 402 Cedar Ridge Drive.

Branson’s Winter Guard finishes second at MSU competition

Branson High School Winter Guard took second place at the Mid-Continent Color Guard Association (MCCGA) competition hosted by Missouri State University.

The MCCGA is a winter color guard and percussion circuit serving independent and scholastic guards and percussion lines from Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, Nebras-

ka, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Iowa. Lauren Byrne sponsors the BHS Winter Guard.

CRI Coding Team presents to Daybreakers Rotary Club

The Daybreakers Rotary Club members now have a greater understanding of what coding is thanks to the Coding Team at Cedar Ridge Intermediate.

CRI coders recently presented on the science behind coding, how

BHS Winter Guard (Special to Branson Globe)

• SCHOOLS ARE AWESOME

Continued from page 26

it benefits student involvement and what kinds of jobs they could aspire to by learning coding. Fourth grade teacher and CRI Coding Team sponsor, Amy Vejraska, says, “The Rotary Club was very interested and asked the students a lot of great questions.” Students spoke about what they’ve gained from being part of the coding team. In a recent social media post, the Daybreakers Rotary Club stated it was “great to see these kids excelling in skills that will help to shape the world.”

CRI’s spring Coding Team is currently in 13th place, putting them in the top twenty-five percent of the 5th/6th grade division in the Youth Coding League. Buchanan

Intermediate’s spring Coding Team is currently in 15th place.

Branson students, staff enjoy Courtwarming

vis, to make an impact on the school and classrooms in regard to literacy and the promotion of reading.

In her grant application, Mrs. Nangle wrote: “I am seeking funds

through this grant to purchase bilingual books for all levels of students. These books (with Spanish and English text together) allow students

SEE SCHOOLS ARE AWESOME, PAGE 28

Branson High School Student Council representatives organized themed spirit days and participation was evident across all campuses. Justin Gill and Diamond Mullins were crowned as Courtwarming King and Queen, and the Pirates fought hard against the Joplin Eagles. (Special to Branson Globe)

Branson’s February Teacher

Proud honoree named The Teacher Proud Tuesday honoree for the month of February is Nick Crabtree, sixth grade teacher at Cedar Ridge Intermediate. Mr. Crabtree has been with the district for seven years and received nominations from students and staff. There are only a few more months in the school year to nominate an

outstanding employee for Teacher

Proud or Pirate Proud! Nominations from the community, students and colleagues are accepted. Nominate an outstanding teacher today with the Teacher Proud nomination form at https://bit.ly/3KypLTT. The Pirate Proud nomination form link is https://bit.ly/3AytT1S. Hollister Schools Foundation awards grant for bilingual books

The Hollister Schools Foundation awarded a “Greg Davis Literacy Grant” check for $600 to Hollister R-V School District’s ESL Coordinator, Mrs. Marta Nangle.

The “Greg Davis Literacy Grant” was established in memory of the late Hollister teacher, Mr. Greg Da-

CRI Coding Team (Special to Branson Globe)

Crabtree (Special to Branson Globe)

• SCHOOLS ARE AWESOME

Continued from page 27

to read age-appropriate books of interest which assist students in becoming more proficient in both languages.”

The Hollister Schools Foun-

dation, originally established in 2009, is committed to breaking down the barriers to learning for students through partnerships and programs that serve the needs of the whole child. To learn more about the Hollister Schools Foundation, visit www.hollister.k12.

mo.us/foundation.

Reeds Spring Primary School names next assistant principal

Ms. Tara Connors will join Reeds Spring Primary School as assistant principal at the start of the 2023-2024 school year. The current assistant principal, Adria Simkins, will become the principal.

“Tara brings a great deal of knowledge about early childhood instruction. I have no doubt she will be an amazing addition to our team,” Simkins said.

Connors currently works in the early education department at Branson Schools.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to join Reed Spring Schools. I look forward to partnering with the community to best serve students and families,” Connors said.

She will begin her new duties July 1.

Reeds Spring Middle School Character Students recognized

Every month, Reeds Spring Middle School highlights and emphasizes the importance of one of the “7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens,” based on the book by Sean Covey. February’s habit was Seek First to Understand, then to be Understood.

Here are the RSMS Character Students for February: Korbin Smith, Payton Sisseck, Otto Davenport, Maranda Zeigler, Trak Barton, Mallory Wood, Cohen Simms, Brielle Kraus, Rykin Tillman, Jakob Cox, Avery Phelps, Victor Loza, Travis Gray, Lily Phifer, Lane Boillot, Bella Cather, Bella Clevenger, Amelia Colon, and William Strieby

Reeds Spring Primary School Character Students of the Month Students recognized are: Reighlynn Mease, Liam Cannady, Danielle Fulwider, Paisley Spragg, Keegan Taggart, Charlotte Mitcham, Atreyu Blair, Eleanor Graves, Kinley Conner, Cash Mease, Sammy Mull, Tracey McDowell

Connors (Special to Branson Globe)

News briefs from around the Branson/Tri-Lakes area

Hollister severe weather readiness begins March 6

The Weather Ready Nation initiative is about building community resilience in the face of increasing vulnerability from extreme weather events. Recent tornadoes, floods, drought and other severe weather events demonstrate the need to be prepared. The National Weather Service and the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency set aside the week of March 6 to educate Missouri residents and to help them become weather ready.

The City of Hollister and the Hollister R-V School District want to ensure that all members of the Hollister Community have a plan, know where to go, and are aware of resources provided through the city and the school.

Deputy City Administrator, Denise Olmstead, shares that people should know how to prepare for each type of emergency. “Tornadoes, straight-line wind, and flooding are the weather events that are most common in our area,” she says.

The Hollister Emergency Operations Center operates at the Hollister Police Station. During the threat of severe weather events, the operations center monitors the National Weather Service. It will utilize the City of Hollister App to send out an alert to residents of severe weather events, closed roads and other pertinent information. (For more information on the app

visit the City of Hollister’s website, www.cityofhollister.com.)

In the event that a tornado watch or warning is issued for Taney County, there is a FEMA shelter located on the Hollister School Campus between the middle school and high school (directly across from the football stadium entrance). The FEMA shelter is designed to withstand an EF5 tornado.

Dr. Sean Woods, Hollister School Assistant Superintendent of District Operations, shares that the FEMA shelter is open to the Hollister community outside of school operating hours. “During the school day, due to capacity and safety procedures, our FEMA shelters are for our students and staff only. However, when school is not in session the FEMA shelter is open to all members of the Hollister community,” he says.

The school district seeks individuals to help serve on the FEMA

Shelter Team. Members of this team are responsible for getting the shelter ready during a watch and opening it up during a warning. Volunteers should be at least 21 years of age, willing to come to the FEMA shelter when a tornado watch is issued, and be in good standing within the community.

In the event of a watch, the shelter is readied by one of the team’s FEMA volunteers, who rotate on a schedule. The shelter is then opened for community members during the warning. The school district does ask that volunteers agree to at least a one-year commitment to the team and attend at least one yearly training with the district. Volunteers can begin the sign-up process by emailing Dr. Sean Woods at swoods@ hollisterschools.com.

“Together, we can be proactive,” says John Rousselot, City of Hollister Emergency Manager and FEMA Shelter Team Leader. “Together we

can make Hollister a community that is prepared to be resilient to all types of weather hazards.”

Summer Parks & Recreation Job Fair March 11

The Branson Parks & Recreation Department will host a Job Fair on Saturday, March 11, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Branson RecPlex, located at 1501 Branson Hills Pkwy, for anyone interested in working on the Parks team this summer.

The Job Fair will allow interested individuals to gain information re-

garding seasonal opportunities that include:

• Lifeguards

• Concessionaires

• Day camp counselors

• Umpires/officials

• Scorekeepers/gatekeepers

The Parks & Recreation Department will have representatives from each area available to meet and answer questions. Applications will be available and accepted at this time. Interested individSEE NEWS BRIEFS, PAGE 31

Learn more about T’ai Chi at introductory open house

Submitted to Branson Globe

Are you looking for a way to improve your physical condition, coordination and mind-body connection, perhaps while meeting other people with the same goals? Instructor Bob Goodwin invites you to an open house and introductory class to be held Monday, March 6, at 6:30 p.m. The FREE event will be held at The Grove Christian Church, 116 Pathway Rd., Branson.

During the approximately onehour open house, you will have the opportunity to meet the instructor, talk with current and former students, and watch instructor videos. Light snacks will be provided.

T’ai Chi is a moving meditation that helps enhance relaxation and concentration, improves mind-body connection, and helps promote peace, tranquility and overall health.

T’ai Chi can also help prevent falling, as the student improves coordination by learning to accept and work with strengths and limitations, stay centered, and redirect negative influences. This is accomplished through slow, flowing movements that are actually more physically challenging than they first appear.

T’ai Chi has also proven valuable for actors as they learn natural, organic response and character development for theater, film and television.

Bob Goodwin has an impressive portfolio of experience, having taught across the United States and Europe at universities, theaters, the Hyland Center in St. Louis and more. In 1979 he co-founded the St. Louis T’ai Chi Chuan Association, one of the oldest T’ai Chi associations in the U.S. While working in the film industry in Los Angeles, Goodwin trained Christian Bale for “Batman Begins” and worked with Robert Downey Jr. and Jamie Foxx for “The Soloist.”

Open house attendees will also have the opportunity to sign up for the next beginner class, which starts March 13. Classes are held Mondays from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. for a monthly fee of $80; initial fee is $60 for three weeks in March. A portion of class fees goes toward The Grove church ministries and various area child advocacy groups. For more information, or to sign up if you can’t make it to the open house, email Bob Goodwin at rggjr2@icloud.com. Also, visit his website, www.FilmFightingLA.com.

• NEWS BRIEFS

Continued from page 29

uals should be prepared for on-site interviews.

Please contact the Branson RecPlex for additional information at 417-335-2368.

Skaggs Foundation accepting scholarship applications

The cost of higher education is only getting more expensive, but Skaggs Foundation works to reduce the financial barrier for local individuals who are pursuing or advancing a career in the medical field.

Skaggs Foundation is accepting scholarship applications for the summer and fall 2023 semesters through 5 p.m. April 3.

To qualify, scholarship applicants need to have and maintain a GPA of 2.5 or better; be a resident of Stone or Taney counties in Missouri or Boone County, Ark.; or be an employee or family member of an employee of Cox Medical Center Branson.

To learn more about Skaggs Foundation’s scholarship program, or to apply, visit SkaggsFoundation.org.

Dewey Short Visitor Center opens for season

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will open the Dewey Short Visitor Center for the season on March 1, 2023.

Hours of operation for 2023:

March 1 – May 27: Tuesday –

Saturday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

May 28 – Sept. 4: Sunday – Sat-

urday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Sept. 5 – Nov. 30: Tuesday –

Saturday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Located just south of Table Rock Dam on State Highway 165, the visitor center offers three stories of interactive displays for all ages.

America the Beautiful and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Annual Day Use passes are available to purchase in the visitor center. The America the Beautiful passes can also be purchased online at https:// store.usgs.gov/.

The grounds have a picnic shelter can be reserved through www. recreation.gov. Other non-reservable picnic tables are available. For more information, contact the Dewey Short Visitor Center at 501-340-1943.

Recreation information can be found on the internet at www.swl. usace.army.mil, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/littlerockusace and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/usacelittlerock.

Skaggs Foundation kicks off 2023 Lunch and Learn series

Skaggs Foundation is thrilled to kick off the 2023 Lunch and Learn series with Central Trust Company’s Vice President and Senior Relationship Manager Linda Bowers who will pres-

ent Planning Your Charitable Legacy. Bowers will be discussing charitable gifting and planning during life and after death. Bowers has more than 29 years of experience in assisting individuals with wealth planning. She is passionate about helping people find solutions that

represent their values.

The lunch and learn will be held at Golden Corral in Branson in the private dining room on March 28.

Golden Corral is located at 3551 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway. The luncheon begins at 11:30 a.m. with Bowers’ presentation at noon.

Registration is required and the cost is $5 per person, due at the time of registration. Register online at SkaggsFoundation.org/events/. Space is limited. Registration will close March 27 or when capacity is reached. For questions, email Foundation@skaggs.net.

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

Scouts score big with $12 tickets during appreciation days at WonderWorks Branson

Submitted to Branson Globe

WonderWorks Branson is celebrating Boy and Girl Scouts with discounted admission.

WonderWorks Branson is inviting all boy and girl scouts to score big with a discounted admission rate of only $12, plus tax, during Scout Appreciation Days. All registered scouts who visit WonderWorks wearing their uniform, vest, or sash qualify to get the

discounted All Access pass. Admission comes with access to all the fun and interactive activities that WonderWorks has to offer. This special event is taking place March 4-5, 2023.

“We love seeing all our local scouts dressed up in their uniforms during this special weekend,” says Faith Bovo, education sales manager of WonderWorks Branson.

“Scouts, troops, and even troop

leaders will have a blast exploring our exciting exhibits!”

No reservations are necessary to get the discounted admission rate on Scout Appreciation Days. Scouts will be able to explore over 100 interactive exhibits inside, including areas that focus on Earth’s elements, space exploration, light, physical sciences, meteorology, sounds and senses. Guests are sure to have fun while they learn, as the exhibits focus on STEM topics (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).

According to the Associated Press, the Boy Scouts of America and the Girl Scouts each have over 1 million active members. Dedicated troop leaders stay active in finding ways to keep the members involved, engaged and having fun. WonderWorks is helping them do just that with Scout Appreciation Days.

WonderWorks Branson also offers a discounted group rate all year long for scout groups of 15

or more. Groups must make reservations at least 48 hours ahead of time to get the discounted rate. Along with scouting groups, other groups such as homeschools, students, birthday parties, family reunions, and more can also plan visits year-round. To make group reservations, visit the site at: https://www.wonderworksonline. com/branson/groups/.

“The WonderWorks team wants to help you host the perfect event this spring,” says Brenda Dent, general manager of WonderWorks Branson. “We can create custom event packages for groups of all kinds, ensuring your guests have the best experience possible.”

WonderWorks Branson offers event space opportunities for hosting parties, gatherings, team-building events, field trips, corporate events, scout troops, family reunions and more. There are numerous event packages and group rates available with advanced reservations. Wonder-

Works Branson offers over 48,000 square feet of family-friendly, engaging activities. To get more information or purchase tickets, visit the site: https://www.wonderworksonline.com/branson.

WonderWorks, the upside-down adventure, is a science-focused indoor amusement park for the mind that holds something unique and exciting for visitors of all ages. There are three floors of nonstop “edu-tainment,” with over 100 hands-on and interactive exhibits that serve the educational purpose of challenging the mind and sparking the imagination. WonderWorks has locations in Orlando, Pigeon Forge, Myrtle Beach, Panama City Beach, Syracuse, and Branson. For more information, visit https://www.wonderworksonline. com/branson and follow @WonderWorksBranson on Facebook, @WonderWorksBR on Twitter, and @WonderWorks_br on Instagram.

★ D O W N T O W N B R A N S O N ★ ★

WonderWorks Branson (Special to Branson Globe)

• BIG SHOW

Continued from page 5

Theater on Tuesdays and Thursdays singing those familiar Motown hits.

Last up were some of the shows from the Nashville Roadhouse Theater at the Branson Star. “Steve Sanders—That Mentalist Guy” creates amazing feats of mentalism on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Morace Family’s “Listen To The Music” show brings to the stage a variety of music, comedy and beautiful harmonies.

Last but certainly not least, musical artist Stevie Lee Woods hit the stage and closed out the show with a rousing sample of his “Nashville Roadhouse Live.”

The Hot Winter Fun Big Show is just a snapshot of some of the great shows in Branson for 2023.

Make your plans to visit these shows and mark your calendar for next year’s 30th anniversary of the Hot Winter Fun Big Show.

Stevie Lee Woods (Photo by Linda Page)

• GEAR FOR SKYLER

Continued from page 2

Saturday’s gathering, the donations totaled over 30 fishing rods, a dozen or more tackle boxes with tackle, over $1,500 in cash, and gift cards from Bass Pro and other related businesses. Additional equipment has been pledged, as has a guided fishing tour. After everything is inventoried and any remaining needs assessed, VOTO will plan a shopping trip. Skyler’s parents said they were overwhelmed by the generosity following Skyler’s disappointing experience and excited that he can once again start doing the trips he

loves. As for Skyler, his enthusiasm was evident as he went from table to table with exclamations of “Wow!” and “Thank you!” He was also planning future trips, starting with “Mac” McAllister, USN (Ret.), who helped coordinate the cash donations, and Margie Jo Williamson, USA (Ret.), who serves as

donation liaison for POW Network, and other veterans who helped with the donation efforts.

Follow Skyler’s Fishing Adventures on Facebook, and if you’re a veteran, be sure to watch for this young man during Veterans Week to receive his personal thanks for yourself.

Surprise, Skyler! This party is for you! (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas)

Skyler, now 11, excitedly explores one of several donated tackle boxes.

(Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas)

Skyler enjoyed meeting Navy veteran Dave “Mac” McAllister, who helped coordinate donations; and POW Network volunteer Margie Jo Williamson. (Photos by Cynthia J. Thomas)

Area professional fisherman Greg Woods helped to coordinate donations (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas)

Some of the many items donated (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas)

Continued from page 2

Nature’s Best, features beautiful, award-winning photography from the Windland Smith Rice International Awards. The 10,000-squarefoot gallery space transports guests around the world and inspires people of all ages to enjoy and love the great outdoors.

With 350,000 square feet and more than 1.5 miles of trails that feature 800-plus species, Wonders of Wildlife takes visitors on a journey through immersive exhibits that entertain and educate while sharing the story of America’s most significant conservationists throughout history and today. It is the only national aquarium where hunters and anglers and all of those who hunt, fish, and act as stewards of the land and water are celebrated.

Newly accredited AZA facility Wonders of Wildlife received accreditation in 2022 by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums following a lengthy application process and on-site inspections. With fewer than 300 facilities nationwide touting this recognition, WOW joins an elite collection of zoos and aquariums dedicated to the highest standards of conservation, animal welfare and education.

The AZA team conducted its facility inspection at Wonders of Wildlife in June 2022. A panel of

MILTON

Continued from page 12 time of DOS. We are upgrading it to use the modern software available today, which will make our city more efficient while saving significant work hours.

“Your Board and I have been working diligently over the last year to give the voters what they said they wanted. Despite challenges, we have the leadership within city government that Branson deserves and needs while remaining faithful to the characteristics of faith, family, flag and fun that are the hallmark of all Branson has to offer.

“I humbly ask for your vote to stay the course and continue as your Mayor.”

16 experts in zoological and aquarium operations, animal welfare and veterinary medicine voted to accredit the award-winning attraction. Further solidifying the museum and aquarium’s reputation as a leader in wildlife conservation, management, and education. Midwest’s only sea turtle rescue, rehabilitation, and release facility

For the third year, Wonders of Wildlife has partnered with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Turtles Fly Too to provide critical care for 10 cold-stunned loggerhead sea turtles before returning them to their natural habitat. WOW has rehabilitated 30 sea turtles so far and will continue to

open its doors as the only sea turtle rescue, rehabilitation and release facility in the Midwest.

Expanding educational opportunities

Continuing its priority to connect people of all ages to the great outdoors and inspire future conservationists, Wonders of Wildlife is expanding its youth educational efforts by partnering with the U.S.

Forest Service. Since its opening, WOW has reached 1.5 million kids through its virtual and on-site education programs. Collaborating with Agents of Discovery and the U.S. Forest Service, WOW is committed to educating the next generation worldwide on the importance of conservation and to promote the wise use and respect of our land, air, water, and wildlife.

You can vote for Wonders of Wildlife at wondersofwildlife.org/vote until voting ends at 11 a.m. CST on March 6. (Special to Branson Globe)

• SAFE SCHOOLS

Continued from page 1

tors and the various emergency agencies broke out into groups to discuss how each entity would react to this situation, what their first and next steps would be, what resources they would need, and any challenges or limitations they may face. The groups would then come back together to share.

“The goal of this exercise,” Dr. Woods said, “Is to get everyone talking and sharing ideas. What is something that maybe Forsyth is doing that Hollister is not that could make us better tomorrow than we are today?”

Following the same format as the morning exercise, the afternoon was spent working through an active shooter scenario. “We owe it to our students, to our

teachers, our staff, our parents and our families to do all we can to keep everyone safe and to send them home at the end of each day,” said a passionate Dr. Woods when discussing the adoption of a new emergency alert system. “I would rather have 1,000 false alarms than one tragedy where I hadn’t done everything I could have done to prevent it.”

As the day concluded and final thoughts were shared, two things were clear. One, the students, teachers, staff and families of Taney County have school administrators, SROs, law enforcement, emergency responders and government officials who will do whatever it takes to keep them safe. And two, this will not be the last collaboration for this group of individuals.

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

Participants listen as Dr. Woods gives an overview of school violence. (Special to Branson Globe)

the Hills,” which led to the popularity of the Branson area as a tourist destination. Dr. Head then described another visionary, Ellen Burge, who in 1907 opened a building on N. Jefferson Ave. in Springfield to provide training for nurses, eventually leading to the birth of the Cox healthcare system. Tying those concepts together, Dr. Head described the

$30 million investment in the new facility as yet another forward-looking step, and “the right thing to do” to improve care in the Branson area.

Following Dr. Head’s remarks, C of O grad and Cox leadership team member Dr. Brock Shamel spoke, thanking the entire Cox operations team. All the speakers emphasized several advantages to

the new facility, including easy accessibility and proximity of urgent care to the RecPlex and nearby senior living communities, and additional multi-discipline specialties including endocrinology to serve an increasing diabetic population. While the current Urgent Care in the Outpatient Center will remain open, Dr. Mahoney said the additional Urgent

Care at the new clinic will help meet the growing demand for same-day doctors’ appointments and support the expanded primary care team. “The physician-staffed Urgent Care will be open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week,” he said. “Making sure patients have the right care at the right time is part of our vision to be the best for those who need us.”

Cinema

ident of Cox Branson Dr. William Mahoney welcomed those gathered and recognized local dignitaries present as well as a representative from the office of Governor Mike Parson. He also introduced and thanked KCI Construction who will be contracting the facility, scheduled for completion in the spring of 2024.

Following Mahoney’s welcome, Cox Branson board chairperson, Dr. Sue Head of College of the Ozarks, took the podium. Drawing on local history, she referenced James Forsyth’s vision for making education accessible to all students including those in underserved or rural areas, the vision that is now College of the Ozarks; she also reminded the attendees of Harold Bell Wright’s 1906 novel, “The Shepherd of

SOLUTION to last week’s Sudoku

AVATAR:

AVATAR:

CREED III E 12:30, 3:50, 6:50

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

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

PUSS IN BOOTS W 1:00, 4:00

M3GAN E 6:50

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

OPERATION FORTUNE: RUSE DE GUERRE R 1:00, 4:00, 7:00

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

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

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

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

• SUPER CLINIC

Continued from page 1

William Mahoney provides a welcome at the groundbreaking event. (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas)

Today in history

• 1837 US President Andrew Jackson and Congress recognize the Republic of Texas

• 1875 Georges Bizet’s last and greatest opera “Carmen” premieres at the Opéra-Comique in Paris, France

• 1877 Rutherford B. Hayes takes the oath of office privately as official inauguration day falls on a Sunday

• 1887 Anne Sullivan begins teaching 6 year old blind-deaf Helen Keller

• 1910 Rockefeller Foundation: John D. Rockefeller Jr. announces his retirement from managing his businesses so that he can be devoted full time to being a philanthropist

• 1917 1st major strike of the Russian “February Revolution” starts at the giant Putilov factory in Petrograd

• 1921 Toronto’s Dr Banting & Dr Best announce discovery of insulin

• 1939 Mahatma Gandhi begins a fast in Mumbai (Bombay) to protest against autocratic rule in India

• 1943 Battle of the Bismarck Sea: Australian and American air forces devastate Japanese navy convoy

• 1955 Elvis Presley makes his 1st TV appearance on a broadcast of radio show “Louisiana Hayride”

• 1985 Bill Shoemaker becomes 1st jockey to win $100 million

• 1985 “Moonlighting” with Cybill Shepard & Bruce Willis premieres on ABC TV

• 1991 Iraqi generals and US general “Stormin’ Norman” Schwarzkopf meet to discuss Gulf War cease fire

• 1991 Los Angeles police officers severely beat motorist Rodney King, the beating is famously captured on amateur video and later leads to riots when the police officers are acquitted

• 1992 US President George H. W. Bush apologizes for raising taxes after pledging not to

Leisure Time Fun

Word find from Beck Museums of Branson

ZOO HUNTING ROAD TRIP

HIKING SHOPPING SKYDIVING

CRUISE CAMPING BALL GAME

MOVIE ZIP LINING ICE SKATING

FISHING RIVER RAFTING SWIMMING

GOLFING BIRD WATCHING SPELUNKING

FLY A KITE HORSE BACK RIDING BALLOONING

CANOEING MOUNTAIN CLIMBING HORSE RACES

Sudoku

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NOTICES NOTICES NOTICES NOTICES SERVICES OFFERED

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.

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

MS SENIOR EARTH GLOBAL

BEST BETS OF BRANSON

LIVE TALK SHOW – Don't miss the 2023 debut of The Best Bets Of Branson Live Talk Show, featuring Carrie Anne Mitchell and Shelley Carroll-Drew, Thurs, Mar. 30, at 11:15 a.m., and every Thurs. this year, inside the lobby of The Nashville Roadhouse Theater! Streaming live on Facebook,YouTube and TikTok. Our special guests will be Branson entertainer, Stevie Lee Woods, and brother, Greg Tibbs. Brought to you by our sponsors: Stevie Lee Woods & The Nashville Roadhouse Theater located in Branson, MO, and Kim Sanchez, owner of Gaga For Glitter, in Alpena, AR.

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!!

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.

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.

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

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

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

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 compete in five different categories.

CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S CONNECTION: It’s time for music, with Marti Ford, who finds music a healing balm. Marti will entertain with international music, including selections from Ukraine. She will also tell how she moved from a fear-filled life to a faith-filled one.

Luncheon is Wednesday, March 15, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Pointe Royale Ballroom, 142 Clubhouse Dr., Branson. Cost is $15; call 417 294 1287 by March 13 to reserve a spot.

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

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

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, 417230-9190. Check out therosehouse@facebook and website at therosehouse-branson.com.

HOMES FOR RENT/SALE

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.

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.

FOR LEASE: NICE 3-BEDROOM, 2-BATH HOME. 167

Greenbriar Lane Hollister. Has fenced-in backyard, storage shed, large, covered patio and 2-car attached garage, laminate flooring, custom window blinds. No smokers. $1,100/Mo. Background app. fee $50. Call 417337-0398.

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

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

Jesusanswered,“Iamthewayandthetruthandthelife.NoonecomestotheFatherexceptthroughme.–John14:6