Branson Globe, December 23, 2022

Wreaths Across America honors fallen heroes at local service

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

Virtual nursing: A game-changing supplement for patients and staff

By GARY J. GROMAN, Independent Journalist

I was dozing in a bed at Cox Medical Center in Branson (Cox), recovering from a fall and other challenges. I woke up to a voice at the foot of my bed saying something about “my virtual nurse.” As my eyes came into focus, I saw a woman in scrubs standing next to a computer monitor with the face of a smiling woman, sitting at a desk and looking into my eyes.

The woman introduced herself as Suzanne Moore Davis, [RN, BSN], my “Virtual Nurse” and the woman in scrubs as Georgia, a Unit Assistant. [I would be remiss if I did not point out that on more than one occasion Davis stresses how amazing Georgia is.] Davis is a medical professional with eight years in the medical field, the last five of which have been in nursing.

Davis said she was part of the Virtual Nursing program that Cox

A wreath of honor adorns a veteran’s grave. (Photo by K.D. Michaels)

December 17 was Wreaths Across America Day, a day set

Remember, Honor and Teach

to Remember our fall-

en U.S. veterans, to Honor those who serve and to Teach our children the value of freedom. Members of the Branson Veterans Task Force and area vol-

unteers joined forces to pay tribute to our nation’s fallen heroes with the laying of wreaths on the graves of veterans at Ozarks Me-

Buck Trent honored with special day

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

Entertainer Buck Trent was honored recently when December 13 was named Buck Trent Day, the latest in a series of days celebrating the musical icons that helped make Branson the music mecca it is today.

Buck was presented with a proclamation, signed by Mayor Larry Milton, for being one of the first Branson entertainers to begin morning performances in our area.

The proclamation said, in part, “Whereas, it is recognized that in 1962 Buck Trent was hired on the Porter Wagoner show and began to make a name for himself with country music audiences. His unique stylings on the banjo, steel guitar, dobro, mandolin, electric bass and guitar made him a nationally known instrumentalist whose particular claim to fame came

with his invention of the electric banjo.”

“Whereas, Trent became the dueling banjo partner to one Roy Clark, and the duo went on to win two consecutive CMA Awards for Instrumental Group of the Year in 1975 and 1976,” the proclamation continued. “Over his illustrious career, Buck collaborated with many other artists, including Bill Carlisle, Marty Stuart and, of course, Dolly Parton.”

Trent became well known for his longstanding role on Hee Haw. In the early 1990s, Trent would become a regular on the Branson stage, performing alongside Porter Wagoner when he played in Branson. Trent later had a substantial influence in the role that morning shows would play in our town and in expanding the calendar year of SEE BUCK TRENT, PAGE 15

• WREATHS

Continued from page 1

morial Park Cemetery. Wreaths of Remembrance are placed on the graves of veterans in Branson and across the nation, as

wreath-laying ceremonies occur at more than 3,400 locations in all 50 states, at sea and abroad.

Each year, the public is invited to help by sponsoring a veteran’s wreath at a cemetery near you, volunteering to place the

wreaths, or donating to a local sponsorship group.

To learn more about Wreaths Across America, visit their website, www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.

Living Nativity set for December 23 in Branson

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

On December 23, the Light City Church will host A Night in Bethlehem and Live Nativity. Guests will have an opportunity to wander through a Bethlehem

marketplace, as they experience what life was like when Jesus was born, before heading to the stable to see Mary, Joseph and the baby, along with a variety of live animals.

Free hot chocolate and cookies will be served.

A Night in Bethlehem and Live Nativity will be held December 23 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Light City Church, 1621 Bee Creek Road.

Area appreciation extended at Clay Cooper

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

The Clay Cooper Theatre has extended their area appreciation dates for three shows in the popular venue.

The Clay Cooper Country Express, Hot Rods and High Heels and Dean Z -”The Ultimate Elvis” will be offering special area appreciation rates through December 30.

An area appreciation rate of just $15 per person is offered to residents in Barry, Christian, Dallas, Douglas, Greene, Jasper, Lawrence, McDonald, Newton, Ozark, Polk. Stone, Taney, Webster and Wright Counties in Missouri.

Area appreciation rates are extended to residents in the Arkansas Counties of Baxter, Benton,

Boone, Carroll, Fulton, Izard, Madison, Marion, Newton, Searcy, Stone and Washington.

To purchase a ticket, one must show a valid driver’s license from one of the included counties.

The Clay Cooper Theatre is located at 3216 W78 Country Boulevard. Phone number is 417-332-2529.

Next Elevate Work class to start January 9

Submitted to Branson Globe

Elevate Branson wants to remind the community that students are currently being accepted for the next class of Elevate Work, which will begin on Monday, January 9, 2023.

Maybe the Christmas season has left you or someone you know feeling a little frustrated and short on budget, and it’s time for a new direction; or maybe it’s just been hard to find good employment, especially after COVID-19 derailed so many things. Perhaps

there’s been a life change such as an unexpected move or a divorce. All those things can be reasons to consider enrolling in Elevate Work.

Over the nine-week class, students will sharpen their interviewing and resumé skills, meet and network with potential employers, and gain confidence. Elevate Work graduates have a high success rate of finding meaningful employment; those who return to share their testimony with future classes often say they couldn’t have gotten the job they now enjoy without

the help of their teachers, fellow classmates and mentors. Application fee for the class is only $20. The free classes are held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday evenings and include dinner, as well as transportation and childcare for students needing those services. Contact Elevate Work director Donna McConkey at 417-527-1709 or email Donna. McConkey@ElevateBranson. org. This nine weeks can help you unlock your potential and change your life!

Buck Trent was celebrated at Branson City Hall recently when December 13 was named Buck Trent Day in Branson. (Special to Branson Globe)

A special community member could use your encouragement

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

The Branson Globe is giving you an opportunity to help spread encouragement and positive thoughts to a member of our community.

We are hosting a card shower for Branson’s Valerie Seitz. Seitz, as you may remember from a previous Globe article, was undergoing chemotherapy for Stage 4 breast cancer and lung cancer. Seitz, the wife of State Representative Brian Seitz, has completed 18 weeks (six sessions) of scheduled chemotherapy, with surgery and radiation to follow.

Recently, Seitz began suffering extreme back pain and is now being seen at the Spinal Institute for bulging disks.

Seitz, who tries to maintain a

positive attitude about her diagnosis and treatment, maintains the philosophy of “Either way, I win,” meaning she wins the battle over cancer or she wins the ultimate battle and enters the gates of heaven.

Because Valerie is a friend of the Branson Globe, and because many members of our staff have first-hand knowledge regarding cancer and treatment, we wanted to send some encouragement to Seitz in a tangible way.

We are asking you, our readers, to take a moment and drop a card of encouragement and well wishes in the mail to brighten Valerie’s day. If possible, please include your favorite scripture to uplift her, as well.

Cards should be mailed to Valerie Seitz c/o the Branson Globe, P.O. Box 652, Hollister, MO 65672. Cards will then be delivered to Seitz.

Please include a return address on your envelope.

Thank you for helping us support one of our valuable community members.

Steve Spurgeon to present show honoring local heroes

By CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer

Songwriter and guitarist Steve Spurgeon and Branson’s Hot Hits Theater invite the community to a special show on Thursday, December 29. At the show, Spurgeon will be honoring first responders and military personnel and veterans, as well as congratulating Eric Schmitt on being sworn in as Branson’s new Chief of Police.

Spurgeon shared his patriotic, inspirational music as a featured entertainer at the Convoy of Honor “Hootenanny” held in Branson during Veterans week, when he says he fell in love with the com-

munity and its commitment to honoring veterans. At that time, he met with city leaders about his nonprofit organization, USA Superheroes, which works to address the mental health crisis among the first responder, military personnel, and veteran communities and to raise public perception of those groups through education, inspiration, and recreation.

Spurgeon’s original music, which might be described as a folk-rock blend, is dedicated to those causes as well. “It’s intended to be uplifting, to speak to people’s souls,” he says.

Following up on connections

made in November, Spurgeon was in Branson again recently for what he thought would be a preliminary audition and conversation with Branson’s Hot Hits Theater; he ended up doing a pre-show which was well received and led to the scheduling of next Thursday’s show.

The 4 p.m. show is free to the public, with donations accepted for the work of USA Superheroes. Spurgeon hopes to increase visibility for his nonprofit work and continue his involvement with Branson and its first responder communities. Learn more at www. usasuperheroes.org.

Pets of the Week

Tri-Lakes

Merry Christmas

NIKE is a 5-month-old male. Nike has a very outgoing personality. He is always there to greet us first thing. The kneading and that purr start immediately. This guy and his siblings came from an animal hoarding situation. Nike is always in a good mood.

VIOLA is a 4-year-old female Shepherd mix. She was found as a stray and was shy at first but has warmed up to the staff. She is not great with other dogs. Her ideal home is pet free and calm until she can unwind and relax.

Valerie Seitz (FILE)

Jimmy Jack Foundation hosts annual Christmas concert in Branson to benefit kids

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

A Nashville-based songwriter and entertainer is investing in the future of children around the world.

Jimmy Jack Whitaker is the CEO and founder of the Jimmy Jack Foundation, a nonprofit organization with the mission of “helping kids reach their musical dreams.” Whitaker’s foundation provides musical instruments for children who wish to pursue their passion for music, as well as music scholarships for young people around the country.

“I was six years old when I watched my father drive out of my life,” said Whitaker. “My mother worked hard as a single parent to keep me, my brother and my sister together for the next eight years. When I started the fourth grade, I wanted to learn to play the violin. We didn’t have much, but my mother always made sure that I had both private lessons and an instrument to play. The sacrifices she made built the musical foundation for the rest of my life.”

Whitaker continued, “For many years, I gave my own musical instruments away to children who had no way of purchasing them without help. I

didn’t understand why then. I do now. I was simply trying to give back to less fortunate children. I have now surrounded myself with like-minded musicians and businessmen, and I am looking for people who want to partner with the Jimmy Jack Foundation in helping children reach their musical dreams.”

Whitaker hosts fundraising concerts and events across the country in an effort to raise more money to provide instruments and scholarships for children in need. Whitaker and his friends were in Branson recently for a fundraising Christmas concert

at Stone Castle Inn. Singers and entertainers joined together to share their talents as they raised money for this great cause.

Money raised from the annual concert will provide musical instruments for children in our area who wish for instruments they cannot afford. Scholarships are also awarded to young people who exhibit musical talent they wish to pursue, but lack the financial means to do so.

To learn more about Jimmy Jack Whitaker and his fundraising, visit his website, jimmyjackfoundation.org.

Jimmy Jack Whitaker’s Christmas fundraiser featured a host of talented entertainers. (Photo by K.D. Michaels)

First Amendment to the United States Constitution

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

ROB DOHERTY

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

JANET STEINKAMP Editor editor@bransonglobe.com

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

KIM CHAPPELL Ad Designer gabbydor210@gmail.com

PATTY DOERPINGHAUS

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

MARK FEDER

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

TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer tiffanykathleenbrown@ gmail.com

KAREN HALFPOP

Digital/Production Manager production@ BransonGlobe.com

KD MICHAELS Staff Writer kdmichaelsbranson1@ gmail.com

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

BY DAVE RAMSEY, CEO, Ramsey Solutions, and an eight-time No. 1 national

best-selling author, and host of The Ramsey Show

Dear Dave, I’m 32 and a teacher. My house is my only debt, and there’s $55,000 left on my mortgage. My parents always taught my brother and I about saving and being smart with money. The other day, Mom

Dave

Says: I’ll be nice, but I’ll tell the

and Dad offered to pay off the rest of my mortgage by loaning me the money with a very small interest rate. I know you don’t like the idea of mixing money and family, but considering I have a great relationship with my parents, what do you think about this offer?

Lacy

Dear Lacy, I’m going to make a suggestion before saying don’t do this. See what I did there? But seriously, I’d recommend they just make the money a gift and reduce your portion of any later inheritance by that amount. By doing this, you could help reduce the possibility of your brother feeling slighted in any way. I would never loan my kids mon-

ey. And here’s why: One hundred percent of the time, the Bible says the borrower is slave to the lender. That doesn’t exempt parents and their kids. No matter how nice your masters are, you’re still a slave in this kind of situation—and you’ll feel it. Family dinners and get-togethers are different when you’re sitting down to eat with your masters—your creditors—instead of just good ol’ Mom and Dad.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not suggesting you should act ungrateful that they offered a loan instead of a gift. It’s a generous thing either way. But if they don’t want to go the gift route, that’s fine. You have a good job, a nice home, and you’ll be okay. The thing is, I just

truth

wouldn’t want to take a chance on straining a great relationship—or even ruining it—because of money.

Lacy, you’re 32, a teacher and a homeowner. In my mind that says a lot about you, your maturity and your work ethic. That being the case, I get how this could be a weird thing for you to do. So, I’m going to give you an out: Blame me. Just tell them you talked to me, and I said don’t do the loan idea. Tell them I gave you the make-it-a-gift-tied-to-the-inheritance idea.

If your mom or dad wants to talk to me about things, that’s fine. I’ll be kind to them. But I’ll tell the truth like I always do.

— Dave

Stock Market Insights: The buzzkill Federal Reserve

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

he was our good times’ buzzkill. In high school in the ‘90s, some buddies and I started this game where we would run down the hall and slide to take out a buddy walking down the hall like we would the opposing baseball team’s shortstop. This lasted for threefour days until our HS principal got involved. He was the buzzkill for that week, just like the Federal Reserve is this week.

Federal Reserve rained on everyone’s parade.

As expected, the Fed increased the fed funds rate by 0.50 on December 15, 2022, but they unexpectedly projected that interest rates will go higher in 2023 than they predicted last September. Investors expected the 0.50 rate increase but were caught off guard by the overly negative projections.

economic growth and unemployment rising to 4.6% from its current 3.7%. Usually, this combination points to inflation lowering, but strangely, the Fed raised its core inflation (without food and energy) forecast for the end of 2023 from 3.1% to 3.5%.

T

he next person who slide tackles is kicked out of school.” I loved our principal, but

Declining houses, fuel prices, car prices, and lower inflation reports on consumer prices have excited investors about inflation’s downward trend. But the buzzkill

I saw some conflicting information. (Remember, the Fed is trying to slow the economy to lower inflation; the primary gauge they watch is unemployment.) The Fed is projecting 2023 will see lower

These projections were the reverse of what investors expected after the last few good inflation reports. According to Barclays, bond and derivative markets are now projecting that core inflation will have returned to the Fed’s 2% target in the next twelve months.

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

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DARYL WEATHER Weather Forecaster bransonwx@gmail.com info@BransonGlobe.com • Phone: (417) 334-9100 • 2460 S. Business 65, Suite 106 • Hollister, MO 65672

P.O. Box 652

Hollister, MO 65673

BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer

The Christmas season usually presents several opportunities to hear the biblical account of Jesus’ birth, from Matthew’s Gospel or Luke’s or a combination. Most of

Reflections: What did Mary ponder?

us know the basics of the story, but one part recently stood out to me.

Luke 2 tells of the glorious angelic visit to the shepherds. No doubt excited to be the first to receive such news, the shepherds headed to Bethlehem where they worshiped Baby Jesus and began enthusiastically telling other people about him. They were still praising God as they went back to work.

After tiresome travel, the hard work of labor and delivery, and the excitement of the shepherds’ visit, Mary was probably ready to rest, but she wasn’t idle; Luke 2:19 says Mary “kept all these things and pondered them in her heart.”

I wonder what she was thinking—did she connect the shepherds’ story with her own angelic visit announcing the pregnancy? She wasn’t the only one who did some pondering back then; Matthew 1:20 says Joseph also did some thinking upon learning his fiancée was pregnant and knowing the baby wasn’t his. Mary may also have recalled her visit to her cousin Elizabeth, when pre-born Baby John leaped with excitement and Elizabeth greeted Mary as “the mother of my Lord.”

At that time in history, writing things down was difficult. No phone app, no pencil and paper; even

parchment and inkwell weren’t always handy. Memories were preserved by meditating on them and telling other people. As Jesus grew, Mary probably treasured the moments as any mom would do. We find another reference to Mary’s pondering in Luke 2:51. Returning home from the yearly Passover trip to the Temple, Mary and Joseph realized 12-year-old Jesus was not with them. After finally locating Him back at the Temple, talking with the Jewish elders and amazing them with his knowledge, Mary gave her son a mild scolding—again, like any concerned mom. But Jesus’ reply,

Been Thinkin’ About... Christmas tree woes

would turn off the big lights, and we would sit in wonderment at the many-colored lights, the silver tinsel, and the homey ornaments.

yond the boughs.

BY JOSHUA HESTON StateoftheOzarks Media & Design

My mom rather hated live Christmas trees but I didn’t know it at the time. We would cut a live tree every year and, yes, it was magical. Once the tree was decorated, my sister would put on Charley Pride’s Christmas album and my dad

There were etched glass balls that were classic 1970s’, my sister’s rather worn felt elf (before he had a shelf and was an annoying social media phenom), and the lopsided plastic star with a beautiful snowflake pattern (the star was not the same after I tried spraying it with fancy fake snow but it also never fit properly on the treetop). Once, when we had a pet rabbit in the house, I followed the rabbit and crawled beneath the Christmas tree, staring up past the branches and breathing in the mystical piney smell. I could almost see a fantastical realm of magic just be-

Forgotten were the grumpy early Saturday mornings with three very different kids, the traipsing across cold fields looking for the right tree. There were the arguments about how much tinsel should go where and some of us would rearrange the ornaments, annoyed at the other’s obvious lack of aesthetic. Spoiler alert: it was the short one who couldn’t get it right.

There was the appropriately paternal growling at a spindly classic metal tree stand, rusted in place from hanging in a humid Illinois garage all summer. One year, a particularly showy Scotch pine just flopped over in the middle of the night, shattering several

of those exquisitely fragile ornaments. I remember crying and my mom packing me around, assuring me the elves must have gotten a little rowdy. That year, the tree was kept righted by heavy fishing line. My mom had climbed onto a dining room chair at two o’clock in the morning and thumbtacked the rowdy pine to the ceiling.

We cut down our trees from one of a couple little farms nearby but as the ‘80s turned to close, we tried out the big tree farm across the river. It was a rambunctious suburban experience with professionally trimmed white and Scotch pines arching across a bleak brown field beneath never-ending blue skies. There were big loud machines netting the trees — first

“I must be about my Father’s business,” was something to ponder.

There was more hard stuff to come. Any mom struggles to let go as kids move away from home and into a career, but it had to be tough when she dropped in on Jesus at work and realized his kingdom business took precedence over earthly family relationships (Luke 8:21). Did she draw on all those previous events to accept this was how it had to be?

And what about the final week, that awful journey to the cross? In his final moments, as Jesus requested the Apostle John to care for his mother, did those times of

time for that! — and jingly-bell elf employees sweating through an unseasonably warm afternoon.

Once home, my dad noticed the trunk was unevenly cut and proceeded to lop off several dramatic inches. Proudly stationed in the house, it was apparent the once-magnificent pine, abounding in prospective magical Christmas joy, was dramatically shorter than it should have been. I took one look at it and fled to my bedroom in tears, slamming the door behind me. I’m confident my father shrugged nonchalantly and headed to the basement to watch football. That next November, my mom bought a lovely new Christmas tree. A fake one. On sale at K-Mart.

Breakfast at Tiffany’s: Purple - The color of royalty

mysteriously drawn to purple the way I used to be attracted to everything grass-colored.

for us to understand who we are in Him. We are children of the King. WE ARE ROYALTY.

BY TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer

Green has always been my favorite color. Hands down. But lately, I find myself

My book, “Landmarks,” paints a picture of womankind’s innate desire and search for deep, lasting love. As I wrote, God took me on a spiritual journey revealing His love in passionate ways I had never imagined. The last destination God led me to on my Landmark writing journey was “The Palace.” He showed me how relentlessly He pursues us, and how He longs

But how many of us live as paupers—begging at the palace gate for crumbs from the King’s table? In our hands we hold the royal edict (His Word), declaring us heirs to all His kingdom. But filth and fear cast a shadow of unworthiness that keeps us just outside of His promise. I know. I lived there for much of my life, until I finally decided to accept His invitation. So as I puzzled over the sud-

den need for more purple in my life, God reminded me of that last chapter, The Palace. I’m His girl. His daughter. His passion. His princess. And now I’m finally living it. I AM ROYALTY.

Back in November, my husband Aaron pulled out some of the Christmas decorations he had in storage. Some of them had belonged to his late wife, Sheila, who passed from this life in 2021. She was a counselor, speaker and author who wanted the world to know

Jesus, her best friend. One of her books was entitled, “You Are,” and pointed to the many scriptures that tell us who we are in Christ.

As we looked through some of her decorations, I immediately noticed through a clear, plastic tub that there were purple tree decorations of all shades. Aaron told me that he wasn’t sure why Sheila had chosen so much purple. But I had a hunch. Sheila had come to understand the same thing that I have.

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

Each year, whether it’s the “Woke Brigade” or being “politically correct,” the attack on changing the traditional Christmas greeting of “Merry Christmas” to “Happy Holidays” continues unabated. This “despite” or perhaps “because of” the obvious; you can’t

You can’t even spell ‘Christmas’ without ‘Christ’

even spell “Christmas” without “Christ!”

“Seagull, but one wouldn’t want to offend those celebrating Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, or something else, would they?” “Of course not, but don’t most people wishing to honor or recognize specific holidays, other than ‘Christmas,’” do so by saying, “Happy Kwanzaa,” “Happy Hanukkah,” or “Happy Whatever?”

How many people wish someone a “Happy New Year” by saying “Happy Holidays,” particularly during the week after Christmas and before “New Year’s Day?” In the majority, Christmas is the only holiday to lose its specific identity under the “Happy Holidays” hocus pocus.

Do most say “Happy Holidays”

when wishing someone a “Happy Easter” or “Happy Thanksgiving?” Does U.S. law designate “Christmas Day, December 25” as a “legal public holiday?” It does the way the Ole Seagull reads U.S. Code § 6103.

What’s “Happy Holidays” have in common with “Merry _ _ _ _ _ _ mas?” They both leave “Christ” out. So what? What does “Christ” have to do with celebrating Kwanza, Hanukkah, Santa Claus, presents, office parties, decorating trees, wreaths, holly, sleigh bells, retail sales, booze, or feasting? Not much!

What does Christ have to do with CHRISTmas? Everything! Without Christ, there can be no CHRISTmas. There can be a holiday, a season, festivals, and religious observations of every persuasion. Still, without Christ, there can be no CHRISTmas. One cannot even say or spell the word

“CHRISTmas,” let alone explain its actual history, meaning, or origins without CHRIST.

The Concise Columbia Encyclopedia states Christmas is “Christ’s Mass in the Christian calendar, the feast of Jesus’s nativity.” The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language defines “Christmas” as “A Christian feast commemorating the birth of Jesus.” Jesus who? Jesus, the Christ Child, the only begotten Son of God, was born of the Virgin Mary in Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago!

First, there was Jesus Christ. Because of Christ, there is the celebration of His birth, CHRISTmas. Secular customs and traditions have developed since, but first, there was “Christ.”

Even the most notable current secular symbol, the 19th century “Ho, Ho, Ho,” jolly old Santa Claus seen everywhere during

Christmas, was first made famous in New York. The European traditions of “Sinterklaas” and “Saint Nicholas” go back hundreds of years, but first, there was “Christ.”

Some even try to replace the bright guiding light of the Star of Bethlehem with the red glow of the nose of “Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer.” Rudolph’s nose has been guiding Santa’s sleigh since 1939, when Robert May wrote a verse for a Montgomery Ward promotional comic book. In the late 1940s, his brother-in-law adapted it for the song “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” which the cowboy crooner Gene Autry made famous, but first, there was “Christ.”

When someone says, “Happy Holidays” rather than “Merry Christmas,” would it be inappropriate for those wanting to share the true meaning and spirit of “Christmas,” to ask, “What Holiday?” What better way to create or reinforce awareness of the “reason for the season?” That first Christmas when “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life?”

An Ole Seagull, his family, and your friends at the Branson Globe wish all who celebrate the holiday of “Christmas” a MERRY CHRISTMAS!

BY PAT LAMB Columnist

Isn’t it strange how it is Jesus’ birthday and yet we sometimes forget to give a gift to him? How would we like to go to a birthday party in our honor and have all

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STOCK MARKET INSIGHTS

Continued from page 6

Chairman Powell and company are trying to talk tough to tell the world they are serious about inflation. However, the Fed tends to revise its forecast, so I wouldn’t

• REFLECTIONS

Continued from page 7

pondering and perhaps help her remember Jesus was there for a special purpose and the story wasn’t

• BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY’S

Continued from page 7

She was a daughter of the King and she lived it proudly!

This year her tree, arrayed in purple ornaments of all shades,

Train Up a Child: The most important gift we give

the gifts there be given to someone else? Our children need to understand that we are celebrating the birthday of Christ. They need to think of a gift that they can give to Jesus.

Of course, we all know that the reason for the season is the gift that God gave the earth by sending his only son to the world for our sake. We are told that in John 3:16. so, what could we possibly give that would begin to show our appreciation for that gift?

In the book of Matthew we read, “Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did

be surprised if they lower their projections as inflation normalizes.

That week in high school when we were sliding was one of my favorites. We ran full out because the higher we could flip the other

finished? Acts 1:14 implies that Mary was in the group accompanying Jesus to the Mount of Olives for the Ascension and returning to the upper room to await the Holy Spirit.

Mary inspires me to ponder

stands majestically in our home as a testament to that awesome reality.

I will also add, for a time, Sheila got to experience the love of her earthly Prince Charming, Aaron, who I now have the honor of calling my own. I

we see you as a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?

The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for the least of these brothers of mine; you did for me.’ (Matthew 26: 7, 8) We see by this passage that we give gifts to Jesus by doing things for others. It is so heartening to see so many wonderful things being done at Christmas time for others. I stopped to make a deposit at the bank recently and saw a notice that the bank had adopted a family to help this Christmas. One

guy up in the air, the better. Everything was going great until someone accidentally took out a pregnant girl. She ended up being fine but our principal was ready to kill us. I hate to admit it but the buzzkill might have kept

on God’s past provision and on the Scriptures to help during hard times. There may be difficult times, times of waiting, but the things we meditate on can remind us that we know the end of the story.

doubt that he made her feel like any less of a princess than he has me. We are both extremely blessed women!

(To purchase any of Tiffany’s, Aaron’s or Sheila’s books, visit faithtowalkministries.com).

Springfield TV station had an article about someone providing coats to children. A church in a nearby town gave a ham to every family in town. Many of the shows in Branson have collected food to disperse. Shows in Branson have given benefits for the LUC Boys Ranch. One church gives the opportunity for folks to give a Christmas gift by giving to the building fund. Many of the clubs and organizations have selected special Christmas projects that consider the needs of those around us. All these things provide ways to give to Jesus We are tempted to think that we

someone from getting really hurt. Maybe the Fed will, too. Have a blessed week!

should spend our money on our own family, but we need to teach our family to think of others. Each family needs to choose at least one thing to do to give a gift to Jesus by giving to others. There are wonderful stories of children taking some of their own Christmas gifts and giving them to children in other countries, or even in America, who have less than they have.

Let’s make sure that our children experience the wonderful feeling of giving to others. Let’s discuss with our children how they would like to give the most important gift of all—a gift to Jesus.

www.FerventWM.com 2760 East Sunshine St. Springfield, MO 65804

Enjoy Christmas lights and great hospitality at Branson’s Best Motel

By CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer

The staff and owners of Branson’s Best Motel invite you to include 3150 Green Mountain Drive on your holiday Christmas light excursions. Employees have been working hard to set up a Christmas display for guests and other Branson visitors to enjoy.

Owners Sue and Vinnie Patel have enjoyed living in the Branson area for about five years and purchased the hotel property a little over a year ago. They hope to add to the Christmas display each year, entering into the spirit of Ozark Mountain Christmas with other area businesses and shows.

Christmas lights aren’t the only attraction at Branson’s Best—it’s also a great place to stay. The location is convenient to many other attractions, and

your stay includes a full hot breakfast daily, plus a free selfserve dessert bar every evening featuring cobbler, ice cream and cookies. Veterans always receive a 10% discount on their stay,

and other guests who mention this story will receive 10% off as well. Find reviews and photos at www.bransonsbest.com or call 417-336-2378 to reserve your room.

Branson’s Best, located at the corner of Hwy. 165 and Green Mountain Drive in Branson, welcomes guests. (Photo by Philip Thomas)

Who doesn’t love festive Christmas lights? (Photo by Philip Thomas)

Standing by the Door Ministries enjoy a Christmas skating party

By CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer

Staff and clients of Standing by the Door Ministries gathered on Tuesday evening, December 16, for a Christmas skating party and taco meal. Skate World in Branson was full and the fun was contagious as individuals and families shared the fellowship of living successfully in recovery with the support they receive from the ministry.

Standing by the Door Ministries offers Common Solution addiction recovery programs using the 12 Steps developed by Alcoholics Anonymous. Because accountability, fellowship, and support in a structured setting are key, SBTD operates five sober living homes for men and two for women in the Branson area. Members work toward a goal of self-sufficient living and contrib-

uting to society upon completion of the program. They continue to attend classes after completing the residential portion of the program, and many are helping others in the recovery journey or serving on ministry teams.

Standing by the Door is faithbased, as the 12 Steps acknowledge the need for depending on a Higher Power, and much research has shown better long-term recovery results for participants in faith-based programs. Directed by pastors Steve Baughan and Thomas Wright, themselves living successfully in recovery, church services are held at 6 p.m. Thursday evenings at Branson United Methodist Church, 1208 W. 76 Country Blvd. in Branson. Church services and classes are open to everyone, not just program residents.

Several program alumni were eager to share their story and encourage others struggling with alcohol and drug addiction to get involved. “I was mad at God after my mom died,” said Anthony. “A friend recommended this pro-

gram, and they give you the tools you need to succeed.”

“The 12 steps really do work,” agreed Dana, 18 months sober and working a job she enjoys. “I was damaged by a bad church experience, but in the welcoming atmosphere here, I started seeing the promises in the Bible happening in my life. Now I enjoy helping others and seeing the lights come on.” She also appreciates the practical aspects of the program, including a Biblical approach to finances and leadership skills.

Chelsea, now two years sober, helps lead worship for the Thursday church services; her joy and love for God were evident in conversation. Darryl, whose probation officer referred him to the program, said he felt the accountability and the spiritual component were key to his success. Several clients like these are now involved in a mission program, sharing with other facilities and teaching about factors contributing to addiction.

Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

Fun at the Christmas skating party and taco meal (Photo by Philip Thomas) SEE

Reader’s Corner: Tour the Irish Countryside at the Kimberling Area Library

By CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer

After the holidays, start the New Year off right with a pictorial tour of Ireland! Join Gregg Erickson for the first Learning on Wednesday pro-

gram at Kimberling Area Library on Wednesday, January 11, at 10:15 a.m. in the Library community room.

In his presentation, “Thatched Roofs of Ireland,” Erickson will take participants on a tour of England and

the Irish countryside on his way to a “living history village” in Ireland. Erickson, a Master Gardener of the Ozarks, will share his fascination with the building of countryside thatched roofs made of reeds and wheat straw.

Through beautiful photographs, you’ll learn about his study of the thatched roof construction process.

Attendance is free for this and other Learning on Wednesday programs, and no prior registration is required.

Coffee and light snacks are provided. Stay up to date on events, including weather-related updates, at www. kalib.org or on the Library Facebook page, and plan to have some fun learning experiences this winter!

Lights of Joy Christmas Drive-Thru extends run through January 7

Submitted to Branson Globe

One of Branson’s most popular Christmas attractions, Lights of Joy Christmas Drive-Thru, announced that they will extend their season

till Jan 7, 2023. “We are excited to support the efforts of the Ozark Mountain Christmas community to extend the Christmas season,” says Kurt Kysar, manager of Lights of

Joy Christmas Drive-Thru. “Extending the Christmas season in the community isn’t going to be easy. However, we wanted to provide leadership and help the

effort by providing a Christmas drive-thru for those folks who can come the first part of January.”

In 2020 Bobvilla.com included Lights of Joy Christmas

Light Drive-Thru in their top 11 Best Drive-Through Christmas Light Displays in America. The drive-thru has also earned Gold recognition from The 2022 Best of Branson awards as well.

Lights of Joy Christmas Drive-Thru is located just north of Sight & Sound Theatre. Guests can enter the attraction at the corner of Shepherd of the Hills Expressway and Expressway Lane. Lights of Joy will be open 5-11 p.m. nightly, thru Jan. 7.

For more information on the Lights of Joy Christmas Drive-Thru go to lightsofjoydrivethru.com or call 417-336-2744.

Lights of Joy Christmas Drive-Thru (Special to Branson Globe)

Continued from page 2

In addition to being honored by Milton and the Branson Board of Aldermen, Buck Trent received congratulations via video, from many of his friends including Dolly Parton, Jeannie Seely, Leona William, Melody Hart Massengale, The Oak Ridge Boys, Marty Stuart and more.

• STANDING BY THE DOOR

Continued from page 12

If you or someone you know needs help, stop by the ministry office at 704 S. Veterans Blvd. in Branson and talk with the director, Kimberly, or intake supervisor, Jennifer, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., or you may call 417-598-0816 any time or visit www.standingbythedoorministries.com for more information. The initial entrance fee covers the first two weeks of the program, and there is no entrance fee for veterans. After entering the program, clients are expected to work toward employability and pay weekly rent that includes all household basic needs plus transportation to work, medical and

“Man, I am so proud of you,” said Ricky Skaggs, on a recorded message. “They gave you a Buck Trent Day in Branson! You deserve it!”

Vince Gill echoed Skaggs’ thoughts, adding, “Congratulations on your sweet honor of Buck Trent Day there in Branson.”

Branson favorite Rhonda Vincent noted, “I always thought there should be a Buck Trent Day in Branson. You deserve it!”

other appointments, etc.

The ministry also wants to give back to the community; they recently helped their host church with a weekend cleanup project and are looking for other such opportunities, as well as fundraising opportunities to assist clients with the initial entrance fee. Contact Jennifer or Kimberly with questions and suggestions.

“I think a roller skating party was an absolutely perfect choice for our Standing by the Door Christmas party,” said Michael Jacobsen, who now serves on the ministry media team. “Roller skating is the perfect metaphor for what it’s like for people in recovery. When you learn to skate, you might fall down at first, but you get back up and keep trying until you get it.”

Branson shows.

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

Faith Lutheran Church hosted their annual living Nativity last weekend, with many in attendance.

“We were so blessed Sunday evening with people that came to see the Night of Nativity at Faith. We consider this year to be a huge success,” said Gina Brandt, director of music at Faith Lutheran Church. “Many returning families have now made it a family tradition to come see this every year, and quite a few visitors from out of state attended this year, saying they saw it in the free paper. It’s hard to get a count of how many experience the outdoor scene, as many drive by slowly to capture the luminaries, live animals and people gathered in front of the stable on the church’s front lawn.”

In addition to the outdoor Nativity, the church offers indoor activities as well.

Said Brandt, “We had more visitors inside take in the atmosphere of the sights and sounds of Christmas. We expand our displays each year, both indoor and out. Outdoors, you see the camel and the kings walking to the stable to bow before baby Jesus, the shepherds with the donkey and hear the goats’ bells ringing as they graze near the stable, the village families bringing their

Night of Nativity enjoyed

young children to greet the King. It’s just a wonderful experience to watch the peace of people’s faces as they stand quietly and take it all in.”

Inside the church was a large collection of Nativity scenes, many on loan from church members, as well as Faith Lutheran’s large indoor Nativity, a Pete Engler Nativity carving and many others.

“The Bells of Faith hand bell choir rang familiar carols and some people sang along with the beautiful harp music provided by Linda Cooney and the Faith Angels Trio – Kaethe Brandt, Macy Everett and Lynsey Richardson –caroling throughout the evening provided a beautiful musical setting for the evening,” Brandt noted.

Faith Lutheran Pastors and church members were available to visit and pray with visitors, and many new friendships were

born, according to Brandt. ‘It’s just awesome to watch God work through so many people in unsuspecting ways,” said Brandt. “New this year we brought in Vintage Paris’ mobile coffee unit and baristas serving free specialty coffees and hot chocolates.”

Departing visitors were given a gift bag – a brown paper bag with peanuts, an apple, orange, chocolates and a candy cane, bringing fond memories of Christmases past for the adults. Children were given a goodie bag with candy, stickers and toys.

“It takes a village to put on the living Nativity and all the displays, but the reward is so great when you see the community come to take a moment to bask in the real reason for the season, the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ,” said Brandt. “It’s our gift to the community.”

• VIRTUAL NURSING

Continued from page 1

is implementing to supplement the nurses and aides on the floor to improve the engagement between the patient and the hospital staff. Giving me her undivided attention, she asked me questions about how I was feeling and if I had any concerns that she could help me with. As I told her my concerns, she was taking notes. Davis answered all of my questions that she could and told me she would relay my concerns to the medical staff, and that they would get back to me with the answers to my other concerns. After inquiring if there was anything else she could do, Georgia, wheeling the Virtual Nurse Monitor, left the room.

Imagine my surprise when later in the day Georgia wheels the Virtual Nurse Monitor back into the room. She had written information relative to some of my concerns. Davis was on the monitor, telling me she had relayed my concerns to the appropriate medical staff, explaining the written information, and addressing the rest of my other concerns. After asking if I had any other concerns, Georgia and the Virtual Nurse Monitor again departed the room.

I can say, at the end of this day, I felt better about knowing about my condition and the plan of action than I ever felt in the vast majority of my previous hospital stays. Folks, that’s a lot of stays over the last two years, four surgeries, three sepsis infections, and then some. I was so impressed by the immediate impact of my experience with the Virtual Nurse that I contacted Brandei Clifton, the Communica-

tions Manager, Corporate-Cox, to see if I could interview Nurse Davis while I was still in the hospital.

The next morning, Nurse Davis stopped by my bed for an interview. She explained that the Virtual Nurse Program at Cox Branson has been active for not quite a year. The main purpose of the Virtual Nurse is to enhance the patient’s hospital experience by supplementing and assisting the floor nurses who have so many patients to care for “real time” amid many emergencies and distractions.

Davis points out that, as was my experience, the Virtual Nurse is a nurse who has the luxury of concentrating on a single patient’s concerns without having to react to the real time emergencies and distractions that the floor nurse has to handle.

From her remote office, she reads through the charts, asks questions, and finds out the patient’s needs. With no distractions, she takes notes, does research, assesses the situation, and can “message” and coordinate with the doctor, floor nurse, and others to help resolve any issues.

Nurse Davis points out that, to her, the Virtual Nurse’s value is in the help and relief it gives to the floor nurses while caring for patients. When she relates the Virtual Nurse program to her fellow nurses on the floor, she says, “We’ve got your back.”

From a patient perspective, I can say that my Virtual Nurse experience enhanced the already excellent care I was receiving from the floor nurse and staff. I felt as if she “had my back.” The term “virtual” has a computer coldness to it, but my experience with Nurse Davis shows just how personable, warm, and human “virtual” can be.

Plans for New Year’s Eve? Here are some great ideas for you

Staff Reports

Family fun at Fritz’s Adventure

Fritz’s New Year’s Eve Party is bigger and better than ever. Ring in the New Year with adventure from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Join us for the following and so much more:

• Unlimited access to all attractions

• Live DJ

• Door prizes every 30 minutes

• Ball drop at midnight with countless prizes

Guarantee your entry by buying online now at FritzsAdventure. com. Fritz’s Adventure is located at 1425 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson. Upgrade your experience with a limited time group offer. For information, contact Michelle today at 314-753-4663 or Michelle.Clagett@FritzsAdventure.com.

New Year’s Eve celebration at Legends in Concert

Join ELVIS PRESLEY, THE BLUES BROTHERS™, ALAN JACKSON, CARRIE UNDERWOOD, GARTH BROOKS, and our very special guest, SIX®, at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater on December 31 at 9:30 p.m. Celebration includes party favors, gourmet boxed dinners or fine dining, cash bar, and a midnight celebration For more information, call 417-339-3003 or visit LEGENDSINCONCERT.COM/ BRANSON

New Year’s Eve at Big Cedar Lodge

Big Cedar Resort offers parties for all ages to welcome 2023.

New Year’s Eve at Worman House: Dancing at the historic Worman House Bistro with live music, food stations, a champagne toast, and a front row view of the fireworks display at midnight. Reservations are required. Open to the public. Must be 21 and up to attend this event. ($48 pp).

New Year’s Eve Adult Party: All-inclusive New Year’s Eve party at the Grandview Conference Center at Big Cedar Lodge. Live music, dancing, hors d’oeuvres, open bar, fireworks and more. Must be 21 and up to attend this event. ($99 pp.)

New Year’s Eve Teen Party: Dinner will begin at 7 p.m. in the Table Rock Room and then move over to the arcade until 9 p.m. Private light tour around the property and a private ice skating party from 10-11 p.m. At midnight, view the fireworks show outside of Fun Mountain on the dining patio. Ages 13-17. ($100 per teen.)

New Year’s Eve Kids’ Party: Kiddos age 4-12 will enjoy dinner, bowling, laser tag, face painting, balloon animals, a dance party and a private viewing of the Big Cedar Lodge fireworks show from the Kids’ Club Patio. Reservations are required. Open to the public. ($100 per child).

For more information, call 417342-0853. For a full list of events for our New Year’s Eve celebrations with pricing for each party, go to https://bigcedar.com/events/ new-years-eve/. The vacation planning team can be reached at 800-225-6343.

CAM raises money in a chilly way

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

Christian Action Ministries held a unique fundraiser recently – a Polar Plunge.

Several community leaders –businessmen, entertainers, and public servants – literally took the plunge into Table Rock Lake to raise money for those with food insecurities in our community.

“The polar plunge was a huge success,” said Michele Dean, Executive Director of Christian Action Ministries. “We raised nearly $13,000. All the funds will go directly to help us put food on our

shelves to serve our neighbors in need.”

Dean continued, “We had ten community all stars take the plunge – Phil Lilley, Nate Hennessee, John Hagey, Clay Cooper, Patrick Haygood, Ben Ashford, Brian Wilfong, Sheriff Brad Daniels and myself. It was the coldest day of the week and the water temps were frigid. Everyone was a great sport.”

The Branson Fire Department Water Rescue Team was on hand for the event, in case of any emergencies during the event.

Salvation Army toy distribution blesses many Taney County families

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

The Salvation Army of Taney County held their annual toy shop event last week, to make the holidays brighter for many area families.

Each year, the Salvation Army sets up a ‘store” in the Parish Center at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church. New, unwrapped toys for boys and girls are arranged on tables, with age ranges listed on the front of each table. Volunteers help the families “shop” for their children, selecting appropriate

gifts for each child, based on age, gender and the child’s likes.

Families were given an opportunity to select toys plus a stuffed animal for each child. Each family was also given a bag of groceries.

Salvation Army volunteers were also on hand to offer prayer and to provide contact information for other valuable resources that might benefit the families.

Toys were distributed to 115 families with a total of 297 children being provided gifts for Christmas.

Toys are arranged by intended age.(Photo by K.D. Michaels)

By KERRY DAWN GREEN

House of Hope holds first ever Chimneys of Hope Christmas event

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

This Christmas season was the beginning of what is destined to be a fun family tradition for some area families.

Branson’s House of Hope held their first ever Chimneys of Hope event recently.

“This year we provided a unique Christmas experience for 50 kids,” said House of Hope Services Director Alex Sprinkle. “There were a total of 16 families who joined us.”

Chimneys of Hope was a special event, creating memories for those in attendance.

Said Sprinkle, “The event was split into two separate sections. Parents had the opportunity to go upstairs and shop for their kids. The staff and volunteers helped

the families pick out toys and wrap their gifts. While the parents were shopping, the children were downstairs enjoying a time filled with music, laughter, snacks, crafting, face painting, the Grinch and everything in between. After parents shopped, they joined their children downstairs and participated in the festivities. We wanted the event to provide a time for children to make memories with those they love.

Parents shopped from a variety of gift items, including new shoes, art kits, makeup, Nerf guns, stuffed animals, Barbies, games, bikes and much more.

“The parents expressed their deep gratitude for the Christmas gifts with wrapping included,” noted Sprinkle. “The kids ex-

uded joy as they experienced a light-hearted, enjoyable time. While events like this bless parents and their children with holiday cheer, they also provide an opportunity to change those who serve. Staff members and volunteers alike were reminded of the true meaning of Christmas and the hope found in Him. In addition, they were humbled to love people in the middle of a difficult season.”

Chimneys of Hope was truly a community effort.

“Chimneys of Hope was a success because of those willing to join us in loving on these 50 kids,” said Sprinkle. “The Taney County Health Department came to House of Hope and helped us set up the toy shop and cleaned the center.

SEE CHIMNEYS OF HOPE, PAGE 25

Face painting and the Grinch added to the fun at the recent Chimneys of Hope event. (Special to Branson Globe)

Ozark Mountain Miracle: Meaningful Christmas reading from Drawing Closer Ministries

By Randy Davis, Drawing Closer Ministries, Branson

Believe it or not, I have been traveling with our chalk art and Bible teaching ministry now for 36 years. I rarely convey many of the results of the services, although I have a filing cabinet full of hundreds, maybe thousands of reference letters sent to me from pastors around the country proclaiming what the Lord did in the lives of their congregations as a result of being exposed to the Word of God through this unique visual ministry.

I could probably write a full book of things that have occurred over the years, but for now as the year comes to a close, I’ll share a little about one particular series of

• CHIMNEYS OF HOPE

Continued from page 24

Jockey donated several stuffed animals for families to enjoy. We were able to utilize blankets donated by Worley and Associates

fairly recent meetings and explain some of the things the Lord did in people’s hearts and lives that week.

I will not use real names/locations so as to keep identities confidential.

I will try to give you a thumbnail sketch of what went on during these special days – on a winding road in a beautiful Ozark forest near a picturesque lake. I was asked by a church in that area several months in advance to speak and draw for what they were calling their “Fall Revival.”

I set up equipment on a Saturday and started the meetings on Sunday morning. Shirley and Wendy were able to attend this particular series the entire week. I then continued on Sunday night, Monday night, Tuesday night, and Wednesday

to gift families. Covenant Life Church donated stockings filled with trinkets symbolizing the Christmas story. Face FX joined us for holiday face painting. Volunteers went above and beyond as they donated both time and toys.”

night - sharing five different illustrated messages from Scripture and closed each session with a different chalk drawing that ended with special black light effects revealing a “hidden picture” (all of which are coordinated with music).

At the close of each presentation, I normally turn the service back over to the pastor to wrap up before people are dismissed. Some churches close with some final thoughts, a song, or even some announcements. Many churches, however, close by extending an open “invitation” as the congregation sings for people to respond, either coming forward to the altar for prayer, or to receive Christ as Savior and Lord. (This is much

The Staff of House of Hope expressed their gratitude to all who helped make this event such a success.

“Christmas is a time of joy and thankfulness. House of Hope is extremely grateful for the volun-

like what Billy Graham used to do at the end of a crusade message.)

Other churches just offer a “verbal” invitation and don’t really offer an opportunity for people

teers and staff who spent many hours making this event happen,” Sprinkle noted. “From the latenight crafting for personalized ornaments to the hours of picking out the perfect toys for families to choose from, we are grateful. We

to “publicly respond.” Still other churches simply close with prayer or a song. I leave that part up to the church and the pastor. This can

SEE DRAWNG CLOSER, PAGE

also want to thank the families for signing up and allowing us to be a part of their Christmas. We anticipate this will be an annual event we hope to expand in the future. We would love for the community to continue to participate.”

Randy drawing (Special to Branson Globe)

vary from church to church and denomination to denomination, but this particular church’s custom was for the pastor to extend an open invitation for people to respond as the congregation sang a “hymn of invitation.”

All week we witnessed people respond for a variety of needs. Several responded by making a first-time commitment to God by praying to receive Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Others responded by coming for prayer, counseling, or to “re-dedicate” themselves to God’s will for their life. Others came desiring to set a time to be baptized, as this is the first step of obedience after salvation to indicate to others your newfound faith in Christ and Him alone. Still

others came to join this particular church fellowship as members.

The very first service, on Sunday morning, an 11-year-old boy (I will call Tyler) responded at the invitation. He told the pastor he would like to receive Christ as his Savior. Another older lady came for prayer and to recommit her life to a deeper walk with the Lord.

Tyler was from a broken home, and he badly wanted his mother to attend one of these chalk art presentations. He tried to talk her into coming Sunday night, but she did not show up. However, on Monday night she did attend! When the “invitation” was extended she remained seated, although after the service she had a long conversation with the pastor and determined that she, too, felt God’s Holy Spirit

drawing her to repent of her sin and invite Christ into her life, just as her son had done the day before. This was an enormous thrill to her son.

I had mentioned at the end of Monday night, that on Tuesday night I would be sharing a presentation that would be particularly good for people who had unsaved (non-Christian) friends and relatives. So, this mother who had just gotten saved invited a friend from her place of employment for Tuesday night.

She was even willing to drive quite a distance to pick up this individual and bring there the following night. Later in the day on Tuesday afternoon, I received a text from the pastor. The text said, “I have been told that there will be a transvestite at the service tonight.” I replied and said okay. I didn’t know much about the details, but each evening they had a meal before the service. Several visitors attended all week and not really knowing anyone, I wasn’t sure who this individual might be, male or female.

It turned out to be a younger man who had begun a transition to become a woman, but hadn’t gone too far, other than some initial steps. I was told this individual was there, but of course, I wasn’t sure who it was until the close of the service Tuesday night.

As the pastor conducted the invitation that evening, a younger man from near the back who was wearing glasses and a gray suit with a black shirt, walked down the aisle to the front of the church and met with the pastor. I wasn’t sure who this person was, but they knelt at the altar for quite some time and then the pastor got up and announced that this man had come to repent of his sins and accept the Lord as his Savior. The message that night is one I call “The Problem of Death.” It focuses on the importance of and how to be spiritually prepared. The man continued kneeling at the altar and told the pastor he had “a lot of sins” that he needed to repent of.

Finally, as someone was asked to dismiss the service in prayer, the pastor walked to the back. I was already back there to greet people as they left. The pastor looked at me as he approached the lobby area and with tears in his eyes, he whispered, “that is the guy.” So, this transvestite individual responded to the message and came to the altar to be saved! Later on that evening after most people had left the building, I was back up front preparing a picture background for the following night. The pastor came there and said, “I need to talk to you.”

He informed me that he had talked more extensively with Tyler’s mother after the service was dismissed. (This was the lady who had accepted the Lord on Monday night.) She had shared with the pastor that the reason she came Monday night was that she had planned to commit suicide later that evening, and that she was going to “ask God’s forgiveness” while at the church, for what she was about to do. She had already written a letter explaining that she planned to turn her children over to this pastor and his wife. But, because the Spirit of God had spoken to her heart through what she heard and saw in the drawing that night, it changed the course of her entire life. Not only was her physical life saved, but she also was granted eternal life.

It’s that time of year when many are looking for something to do on Christmas Eve, especially something meaningful, something that fills you and your family’s hearts with the true Spirit of Christmas.

After many requests, the Hughes Family has decided to perform their multi-award-winning Christmas Show on Christmas Eve. We’re excited to let you

As a side note, the person this mother had invited to church that night turned out to be the transvestite individual who had gotten saved at the close of the service that same night. Many other things occurred during this week as well; that would make this story too lengthy, but one of the lessons to glean from this testimony is that a simple invitation to church can have monumental results. (Of course, the church must be one that is Bible based and not a woke social club.)

This young boy inviting and pestering his mother to attend ended up in her salvation, then having her invite a friend from work who happened to be a confused, lost transvestite. His eternal destiny was also changed as a result of a personal invitation and even a ride to the meeting from 35 miles away. And you know what else?

All this started when 11-year-old Tyler came forward to be saved. The reason Tyler was there is because the pastor offered to drive some distance and pick him up, since his mom could not attend until Monday night. All these things are thankless jobs involving no praise or recognition—but are key to seeing God move.

This was not a big, fancy church with all the latest bells and whistles. No praise band, no big production, just regular people who love the Lord and the lost in their community. It was, however, a very estab-

lished, organized, grounded Biblical church on a winding Ozark mountain highway nestled back in some trees in a beautiful location near a big lake. A church most people would never know about or even accidentally drive by.

This pastor has kept in touch with me in the weeks and months since this meeting, and those who received Christ that week are still attending and growing as believers. They have now been scripturally baptized and are involved in the church. They have also invited other friends, classmates, co-workers, and acquaintances which have resulted in their salvation as well.

This is just one of probably thousands of examples I could give from recent years. Some might think, “Boy, this was one unique meeting where “God really showed up.” But to be honest, He always shows up. Every single meeting I’ve ever held has resulted in the Lord’s name and reputation being uplifted and exalted, and many times with the salva-

tion of the lost and the “revival” of those who are already saved. Sometimes, it is just not as “visible and public” as in this particular instance because there isn’t really an open invitation extended by the pastor. But I often do receive letters, texts and emails from people. I also have kept most of those in a big file from probably 25 different states. These individuals tell me of their life changing commitments and how God used the messages and chalk drawings to communicate His written word to their hearts in a special way. It’s not the messages, it’s not the drawings, it’s not me, it’s not enthusiasm for God, or keeping rules and laws.

As Romans 10:17 states, “So then faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.” The Greek word for “hearing’ can be loosely translated ‘spoken word.’ Many have said they didn’t really say anything at the meeting itself, but that they had made some life changing decisions as a result of the Holy Spirit’s moving

in their life. One guy wrote to say he pulled his car over after leaving the service and bowed his head as he cried out for God to save him. Another time in Kansas I did a drawing on the final night of a five session series. A young boy had attended with his mother and another sibling. All week he tried to get his dad to come. His dad was more of an Easter and Christmas attendee, but finally agreed to come on the last night. I drew a picture that night depicting the two roads Jesus spoke of in Matthew 7. For the final song the congregation sang the old hymn, “I Have Decided to

Follow Jesus.” After the service, people sometimes stroll up to the easel to look at the drawing more closely. This eager boy coaxed his dad up there to see it. I still remember this young boy pointing to the drawing of the broad road and the narrow road with Christ and the crucifixion scene showing in the hidden picture. As he pointed to the picture he said “Tonight, I decided to follow Jesus.” Then he looked up at his dad and said, “What did you decide to do?”

Only eternity will reveal that. Merry Christmas! www.chalkartist.com

News briefs from around the Branson/Tri-Lakes area

December 13 Closed Executive Session minutes available online

The minutes for the Branson Board of Aldermen Closed Executive Session on December 13, 2022, are now available on the City’s website.

The Board of Aldermen adjourned into Closed Executive Session pursuant to 610.021.3 for personnel.

To view the minutes of the Closed Executive Sessions, visit the Document Center section under the Government tab on the

City’s website, BransonMo.Gov.

Tanger Outlets Branson offer special hours for final days of holiday shopping

Tanger Outlets Branson, 300 Tanger Blvd., is offering extended hours to help with last-minute holiday shopping in the Ozarks area. Top brands for gifting – such as Under Armour, Vera Bradley, Banana Republic and Simply Southern – are stocked up and offering real savings for shoppers checking off wish lists during the final days of the season,

including Christmas Eve. Visitors can also take advantage of special hours on the day after Christmas for even more savings.

HOURS:

• Thursday, Dec. 22: 10 a.m.–9 p.m.

• Friday, Dec. 23: 10 a.m.–9 p.m.

• Christmas Eve, Dec. 24: 8 a.m.–6 p.m.

• Christmas Day, Dec. 25 CLOSED

• Monday, Dec. 26: 10 a.m.–9 p.m.

For more information, phone 417-337-9328.

Junior Auxiliary of Taney County elves are rewarded by children’s smiles

Junior Auxiliary of Taney County recently held the 13th annual Santa’s Gift House in Branson and Bradleyville. There were 270 children who were given the opportunity to shop for Christmas gifts for loved

ones. The event was held December 10 at the Family Life Center of Branson United Methodist Church and continued on December 14 at Bradleyville Elementary School.

This event marks the beginning of the holiday season for many children in our area. Kids were greeted this year by a live Christmas tree and after shopping were able to tell Santa what they would like to get for Christmas. Santa gave each child a candy cane and a book before they rushed off to get a sweet and hot chocolate.

Throughout the year, members of the Junior Auxiliary and their friends and families make gifts for this children’s event. Approximately 40 ladies and their family members and friends worked on making sure Santa’s Gift House was a success. This year gifts included shad-

ow boxes, bubble gum machines, baby dolls, popcorn tubs full of goodies, painted bowls filled with assorted candies, teacup candles, and many more. Each child was allowed to pick out four gifts at a charge of 50 cents per item. One of the goals of this project is to allow children a sense of ownership in choosing their own gifts while they learn that giving can be better than receiving. JA members help the children shop and wrap gifts while accompanying adults sit and relax.

Special thanks to Branson United Methodist Church for allowing us to use their Family Life Center and Liberty Exposition Services for a discounted price on the pipe and drape used to separate the shopping area from the rest of the room. The Junior Auxiliary is also grateful for the Bradleyville High School students who helped set up the Bradleyville event.

Shopper Lavin Cody is having a serious conversation with Santa. (Special to Branson Globe)

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

BHS Art students place at Midwest Art Exhibition

Art students from Branson High School attended the Seventh Annual Best of the Midwest High School Competitive Art Exhibition held at Drury University. This art competition is open to all currently enrolled high school students in Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

Art from three other Branson High School students (not pictured) also made it in the show:

McKenzie Stafford: Third place with her drawing “Trying to Breathe” (Special to Branson Globe)

with his acrylic painting “Venus Flytrap Personality.” “It was an honor to be chosen for this very competitive show,” says Branson High School Art teacher, Jessica Blackburn. “The Art Department is incredibly proud of these students.”

Cedar Ridge Intermediate Coding Team ranks nationally

The inaugural season for Cedar Ridge Intermediate’s (CRI) Coding Team has earned them national recognition. The Youth Coding League, operated by the Codefi

Foundation on Rural Innovation, is a competitive, fully-packaged team sport designed to introduce middle school and junior high students to computer science and coding.

Youth Coding League coders

Clara Dean: Third place with her drawing “Underwater” (Special to Branson Globe)

Veronica Parks: Second place with her photograph “Mother’s Hands” (Special to Branson Globe)

Milla Solvie with her sculpture “Not So Lucky Leprechaun,” Hannah Hinderman with her sculpture “This Little Piggy Went to the Market” and Jaylin Nuss

THE BELL FORSAVINGS

compete to win in three categories:

Community Favorite, Technical Merit and Most Improved Coder.

Community Favorite winners com-

pete through multiple rounds of competition. Projects in the Technical Merit category are evaluated by industry professionals who score for code proficiency and skill.

Competing against 50 different teams nationwide, CRI’s “Those Kids Over There,” coded by Samuel Montoya, Devyn Rombout and Sam Walworth, placed second in the Community Favorite category. Each of these coders win Touchscreen Chromebooks. In the Technical Merit category, CRI’s “The Callbacks,” coded by Piper Brown, Shiloh Duston and Amelia Williams, took home seventh place.

These coders win Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizers. Ari Kennedy was named Most Improved Coder. As a team, CRI finished seventh, and Devyn Rombout was a top coder, coming in at 12th place.

The Cedar Ridge Intermediate Coding Team is supported through the Missouri Technology Grant and is led by fourth grade teacher Amy Vejraska. “I am so proud of these students and their efforts,” says Vejraska. Planning for a spring coding team is currently underway.

Hollister students of the month of December recognized

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

Hollister Early Childhood Center: Scarlett Cole (first grade)

Hollister Elementary School: Reese Hall (third grade)

Hollister Middle School: Ryan

Southern (eighth grade)

Hollister High School: Isaac Bebee (eleventh grade)

Hollister Schools partner with Missouri State Highway Patrol

Representatives from the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) have contacted our school district and many other school districts across Missouri and requested permission to have state troopers walk the halls during school hours. The highway patrol has also offered to perform programs about general safety and various state laws as time permits during regular school hours. This is part of a statewide initiative by MSHP to increase the visibility of law enforcement in Missouri schools.

The benefit of this is two-fold:

• an added level of security for our children, while

• interacting with state troopers in a positive learning environment.

Because of this initiative, you

may see highway patrol cars in the school parking lots and your students may tell you about state troopers walking the hallways of their schools.

Our school welcomes the presence of our local state troopers, who are a part of our community, and view this as another opportunity in addition to our current partnerships with the Hollister Police Department and the Taney County Sheriff’s Office, to enhance the safety of our existing school safety plan while building positive relationships with our law enforcement.

Should you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to your building administrator.

New principal, assistant principal next year at Reeds Spring Schools

Next year, the Reeds Spring School District will have a new principal at the Primary School and a new assistant principal at the Middle School.

Mrs. Adria Simkins will take over as principal at Reeds Spring Primary School. The current principal, Karen Murray, will retire at the end of this school year.

Simkins is currently the assistant principal at the Primary School. She has also served in the district as an instructional coach and classroom teacher.

“I started my career as a kindergarten teacher and my heart has always been with our youngest

Cedar Ridge Intermediate Coding Team (Special to Branson Globe)

• SCHOOLS ARE AWESOME

Nunan is currently the process coordinator at Ozark High School. He previously worked at Reeds Spring Schools as a special education teacher.

“I am honored to be joining the team at Reeds Spring Middle School next school year,” Nunan said. “I am excited to integrate myself into the community and continue the district’s stellar work of being committed to academic and personal excellence.”

Simkins and Nunan will begin their new duties on July 1.

learners,” Simkins said. “Serving the Reeds Spring School District as the Primary School principal is such an honor for me. I love this community, I am passionate about the work our district is committed to, and I consider it a privilege to serve our youngest little Wolves!”

Mr. Garet Nunan will take over as assistant principal at Reeds Spring Middle School. The current assistant principal, Kurt Stumpff, will retire at the end of this school year.

Reeds

Spring Elementary

School

Citizens of the Month recognized November character word: Citizenship.

Recognized in second grade were Caleb Souza, Addilyn Clevenger, Hudson Hayes, Kevin Cooper and Ryan Boersma and Olivia Wangen.

Third-graders recognized include: Koby Fitzwater, Jace Gazaway, Levi Miller, Asya Sahin and Carlos Alonso-Perkins

In fourth grade, these students were recognized: Liam Cervantes, Margaret Holland, Aspen Deatley, Logan Houtz, Ava Monroe-Behn and Averie Boersma

Simkins (Special to Branson Globe)

Nunan (Special to Branson Globe)

The most wonderful time of the year: Globe readers share ‘What Christmas means to me’

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

During this most wonderful time of the year, many of our readers took time to share the meaning they find in the season. For most, it goes beyond gifts, as they reflect on the true reason for the season.

“A day to celebrate Jesus’ birth and to spend time with family and friends,” said reader Khris Johnston

Carla Kincheloe agreed, noting, “Celebration of Jesus and gathering with family and friends.”

“The first thing that comes to mind when I think of Christmas

is spending time with family,” said Mary Stone, mother of three. “I picture us all around the tree, sharing stories, gifts and time – all the while making memories that will be remembered in the years to come”

Taneyhills Library Director Marcia Schemper-Carlock shared, “Christmas music is my inspiration for the season. Attending Christmas programs with people joyfully singing Christmas carols helps me reflect on why we celebrate Christmas. When we are focusing on what we’re getting, we’re forgetting why

we celebrate Christmas. It’s about Jesus, not Santa and stuff.”

Said Danny Branson, “Christmas is a time we celebrate our Savior’s birth, and spend a little extra time with family and friends. Kindness, patience and generosity seem easier to find. I love Christmastime!”

Renate Miller noted, “First and foremost, God’s greatest gift to us as humans is to forgive us our indiscretions and sins. That should never be forgotten or taken for granted. Second, whether near or far, it’s the joy and laughter of togetherness with family and friends.”

Reader Lee Douglas echoed Branson’s thoughts. “I love the

sights, sounds and smells of Christmas,” said Douglas. “Waking up on Christmas morning and looking out the window to see soft white snowflakes that have covered the ground overnight. Setting by a warm fire with friends and family, listening to the Christmas story, knowing that the real reason for the season is the birth of the Christ child that grew up, died on a cross and rose again that I might have the most precious gift of everlasting life if I repented of my sins and ask Jesus to be my Lord and Savior. I love that people’s hearts, like the Grinch, grow much larger and there is peace and love for our fellow man. It’s a joyous time that

gives us a chance to give of ourselves in the service of others. It would be wonderful if the spirit of Christmas could last in our hearts all year. What a better world it would be!”

Michelle Cartwright, owner of The Flagstore said, “Christmas is a time I count my blessings from God and enjoy my family and friends. People seem to slow down for Christmas. They watch holiday movies together, make cookies, they drive around to see lights. It is truly a season of comfort and joy. It is not just a day. It is time to go the extra mile and give to others in need. There are so many ways to

Globe staff shares favorite Christmas memories

By TIFFANY GRAVETT, Staff Writer

Cindy Thomas, Staff Writer: Sunday morning, December 25, 1988, I was nine months pregnant and two weeks overdue, huge and miserable. Our church

was having an abbreviated family worship, but I didn’t want to go because for the previous two weeks I had been greeted with “Haven’t you had that baby yet?”

(BTW that is not a good question to ask someone who is feeling

heavy, awkward, and looks like she ate a watermelon whole. Answer should be obvious.)

We decided to go to my parents’ church instead, but sure enough, the greeter/usher was someone who knew us. “Haven’t you . . . .?” NO, I HAVE NOT.

After church, my sister and her family joined us at my parents’ house for dinner, and I was miserable but had an extra piece of pecan pie to feel better. Back at home that evening, I sat down to continue being miserable when my water finally broke. We called the midwife and my sister, who had just made a two-hour drive

‘Our favorite season of the year’: Branson stars share their favorite Christmas traditions

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

Everyone has favorite traditions they enjoy, especially during the holidays. Several Branson stars shared with the Branson Globe their favorite holiday traditions.

“My Christmas experiences have changed a lot in recent years,” said Branson entertainer Dalena Ditto. “Being raised in Iowa, we would open presents on Christmas Eve and on Christmas Day, we would enjoy an enormous meal with the entire Ditto family promptly at noon, followed by coffee and dessert. Then, two hours later, more coffee, dessert and leftovers! Since both of my

home but turned back around to come and assist with our home birth, and on December 26, our son Brian made his appearance. Now years later, he and his family are one of our three greatest blessings! (Since Christmas is on Sunday this year, I am considering doing a surprise video for the church he now serves as worship pastor.)

Lessons: 1.) Good things come to those who wait, and wait, and wait. 2.)Don’t annoy a woman who gained 80 pounds during her pregnancy.

KD Michaels, Staff Writer: Adopting families at Christmas, providing gifts, groceries and necessities for someone less fortunate is something I look forward to each year, and it gives my life meaning and purpose.

parents have now passed and my better half is a Cajun from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, my son and I have traded Christmas turkey for an amazing seafood and hen gumbo over rice, with a touch of file. Following dinner, there is a present exchange and then a white elephant gift game among the many cousins, aunts and uncles. This time of year is when I really miss my folks, aunts and uncles who are no longer with us. The many memories of my Iowa Christmases will never fade away – they just become more treasured.”

Branson vocalist and radio personality Jeff Brandt shared,

Often, I have done this through my place of employment, making it a team fundraising effort. One December 23, many years ago, my workplace (Golden Corral) still had funds left after helping some families that Christmas, and I made a call to my friend Joan

“Christmas for me growing up started a week or two after Thanksgiving, which seemed to be pretty common in my home state of Iowa. People took a breather after Thanksgiving to get their minds and hearts ready to welcome the baby Jesus and celebrate his birth. Of course, there’s a lot of baking, candy making and presents to wrap. Mom baked cookies for my brothers and I to decorate, and she always made fudge and homemade caramel. My dad always brought in the German heritage of our family with his handmade wooden ornaments, music boxes and an array of German lebkuchen

Westfall, who at the time was the Director of Christian Action Ministries. Her office was closed for the holidays, but I left a message, asking if she knew of someone still in need. Joan returned my call a bit later. She shared that

and dark chocolates. Christmas Eve, we would go to church for the candlelight service and then on the way home drive through the neighborhoods and look at house lights. We would finally get to our house, and Dad would go in and check to see if Santa had been there yet. When he found that he had been, he would wave for all of us and say ‘Come on in.’ Sure enough, there were gifts under the tree that weren’t there when we left for church! Santa had been there. We opened gifts as a family and

after we were done, instead of dinner, we had all the things that were considered special treats at our house – pickled and kippered herring, shrimp, olives, little smokies in barbeque sauce, fondue cheese, sardines, smoked oysters and Dad’s braunschweiger Christmas dip.” Brandt continued, “As for now, we celebrate in much the same way. I put up our Christmas lights outside and we are holding several events at our church, which will, of course, include the candlelight

do that. At our store, almost every customer is wearing holiday clothing, accessories and more. So many have come to town just to see Sight and Sound. They are here to celebrate their faith. It is a wonderful time of year to see people basking in their love of God!”

Young entertainer Emeline Hughes shared her thoughts on the special holiday, saying, “Christmas means light. I know that Jesus Christ is the light of the world. John 8:12 says, ‘I am the light of the world; he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness but shall have the light of life.’ At Christmas I see that light in the world more than at any other time of the year. It’s more than a day

or season, it’s a way of life. At Christmas we get to share that way of life with others. Even people who do not know Him or can’t see Him in their day-to-day lives are pulled to Him. Christmas is s time to light the world. To share His light to the world. It’s the season of giving. And, the Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ, is the greatest gift that can be given. Every Christmas I get to give the gift

of my testimony. I get to share that I know He lives and loves me. I get to light the world with Him and receive that same light and rest. Christmas or CHRIST-must. Christ must be the reason for the season because He is the light of the world. The greatest gift that was given, the greatest gift we can give. Celebrating Him with my family and with people from all over the world, sharing that light, is

what Christmas means to me!”

Joan Westfall quoted, “’For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace’ -- Isaiah 9:6. And, because of this, we can have true joy and peace!”

there was a mom in her store earlier, asking for maybe some broken

toys that she and her father could fix up for her pre-teen son for Christmas. The son had a medical condition that limited his abilities and the family was dealing with that, plus

additional hardship. Joan facilitated a meeting between the mother and myself, and we were able to provide gifts for the child and some groceries for the family. The sheer gratitude from that mother – who didn’t want to ask for help, but thankfully accepted when it was offered -- was so moving that this has become my favorite Christmas memory. And, she and her son have become life-

long friends of mine.

Rob Doherty, Publisher: One Christmas that sticks out is when I got a yellow BMX bike which was the craze back in 1978 when I was eight years old. It really took me by complete surprise.

Daryl Weather, News and Weather: My fondest memory of Christmas was in 1994. My first child (daughter) was born June 28

and Christmas 1994 was her first. Although she didn’t understand much of it, she had a blast at six months old tearing into the wrapping. Her laughs, giggles and smiles on that day were the most precious moments that I’ll never ever forget.

This memory holds so much more to my heart as my daughter passed away in February 2019 from heart failure at the age of 24.

service. My wife, Gina, and I are so blessed to have our daughter Kaethe, son Michael and daughter-in-law Bre close so we can all be together and enjoy Christmas as a family, with our gifts to one another and that spread of special treats, and a thankfulness to God who sent us his Son to give us the true reason for the season!”

Branson’s Doug Gabriel added, “I do have some Christmas traditions passed down through the years. My family and I all have a good sense of humor and so we get what we call gag gifts to play jokes on each other and see who can come up with the worst gift. I’ve gotten some pretty ugly sweaters over the years. But, it’s always fun. We all love one another and do buy serious gifts, as well, for each other, and we also take time to remember what Christmas is truly all about, and that’s the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and the best in the new year.”

Entertainer Randy Plummer noted, “Some of my favorite traditions are to read the Christmas story from the King James Version of the Bible about the Nativity of Jesus, to have a birthday cake for Jesus, and to make sure I have my Christmas trees with lots of bubble lights!”

“Our family has a few family Christmas traditions,” said Joe Tinoco. “First and foremost, we love to gather as much family as possible on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. We always cherish the time we have together. We eat until we are stuffed, of course,

then we always get some blue gifts. Blue gifts are gifts that are under our tree and just because we may be feeling blue, they always cheer us up. My mom started this tradition when I was a kid and it has stuck. Kind of a pre-Christmas celebration. Then on Christmas Day, we awake and open our gifts

as a family. Our tradition is to sit in a circle and let the oldest family member open first and then we go down the line to the youngest, enjoying seeing the joy of everyone’s eyes opening their presents. Then, we spend the rest of the day enjoying our family’s company.”

Grand Country Music Hall’s

Mike Patrick shared, “My favorite tradition is on Christmas Eve. December is such a busy month for us with shows and rehearsals. Then, on Christmas Eve, we always have a family dinner and visit. After everyone leaves and there’s silence to the evening, I take time to pray and reflect on the

awesomeness of Christmas itself. The miracle of a baby born to become our Savior. That’s when it truly feels like Christmas to me!” Clay Cooper and his family have a tradition. According to Cooper, he, his wife and family all wear Christmas pajamas and enjoy

BABYLON (R) 12 PM, 3:50 PM, 7:30 PM

I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY (PG-13) 1:20 PM, 4:30 PM, 7:40 PM

PUSS IN BOOTS: THE LAST WISH (PG) 1 PM, 4, PM, 6:50 PM

AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER (PG13) 2D – 1 PM, 7 PM; 3D – 12 PM, 3:50 PM, 7:30 PM

I HEARD THE BELLS 1:30 PM, 4:30 PM, 7:30 PM

STRANGE WORLD (PG) 1 PM, 4 PM, 7:10 PM

DEVOTION (PG-13) 1 PM, 4 PM, 7:10 PM

VIOLENT NIGHT (R) 1 PM, 4 PM, 6:50 PM

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

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

‘Dear Santa...’

Many area children wrote and sent their letters to Santa Claus at the Santa in the Park event in Hollister on December 4. Here are some of their letters. Thank you to the elves at Hollister Area Chamber of Commerce for sharing them with us before sending them on to Santa!

Globe photographers capture area sights of the season: Merry Christmas!

Presleys take one last bow (Photo by George Kurland)

Birthday of a King (Photo by George Kurland)

Nativity scene near downtown Branson (Photo by K.D. Michaels) Wreaths Across America (Photo by K.D. Michaels)

Lights of Joy (Photo by K.D. Michaels) Let There Be Lights(Photo by K.D. Michaels)

• CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

going to visit friends and family to sing Christmas carols and fellowship.

“Christmas is our favorite season of the year, first because of the true meaning of the season –the birth of Jesus,” said Roy Morris, regarding he and his wife Barbara Fairchild’s holiday celebrations. “It’s always been a tradition to decorate for Christmas at our home after Thanksgiving day, and in the past I’ve gone all out, doing just that, while Barb keeps saying, ‘Oh, my! What’s next?’ The other tradition we’ve always done is being somewhere with family, either in Alabama with the Morris side of the family or maybe spend it with our daughter and her career military husband Jake and their family, wherever they are stationed, or here in Branson with our

kids and their families. We’re very family oriented and Christmas is a very special tradition for us. One of our favorite traditions has been to find someone, maybe a child whose family doesn’t have anything for them at Christmas, and make sure that child has something for Christmas. It doesn’t have to be a lot, but it’s something to make that child happy that they had Christmas. That has been our biggest gift to each other throughout the years!”

The musical Hughes family enjoys a special tradition.

“If you ask anyone in our family, they will tell you that they love our Swedish Christmas tradition,” said family matriarch Lena Hughes, who was born in Sweden. “We start with eating a Swedish smorgasbord. Then we pull the Swedish Christmas tree to the center of the room and some of the family, especially the

children and teens will sing a Swedish folk song or two while dancing around the Swedish Christmas tree. Then, my younger grandkids go to my bedroom to change into white Santa Lucia and Star Boy costumes. While they are doing that, I’m telling everyone else about the legend of Santa Lucia and why Sweden celebrates her. When the kids are ready, a few of us who know the beautiful Santa Lucia song sing it in Swedish while the procession of children walk through the house in candlelight, holding platters of Swedish pastries and offering them to all. In Sweden, Santa Lucia is celebrated on December 13. We try to pick a date as close to that date as possible. On Christmas Eve, we get together again for a Swedish Christmas dinner and then the young children dress up in Nativity costumes. A narrator, along with the children, recites the

story of Christ’s birth from the Bible, interspersed with Christmas carols sung by everyone (this time sung in English).”

For Stevie Lee Woods, family is at the center of his holiday traditions.

“Christmas is a very important holiday and time for my family,” said Woods. “Not only do we share all the traditional moments of Christmas, we try to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. On Christmas Eve we always all get together for a full family night of celebration, music, food and fun. We exchange gifts and see that the kids are ready to greet Santa when he arrives. Throughout the years, someone in the family or a family friend would make sure Santa came to the house in time to wish all the kids a Merry Christmas. We celebrate Christmas Day with dinner for

all, and togetherness. A tradition for many years now has been to make sure a family in need can feel the joy of Christmas, even if they are having hard times. We ask the neighbors to give us names of a family that would appreciate and need a full Christmas dinner sent to their home along with some gifts for the kids. We now carry this tradition on with our theater and show, Nashville Roadhouse Live, where a family in need will receive Christmas dinner on Christmas Day from the Nashville Roadhouse family, wishing them a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. We really feel it’s important to help Toys for Tots and the food pantry and allow everyone who makes a donation of canned goods or toys to see our show for free. Christmas is a time of giving! God Bless everyone! Merry Christmas and the best in the new year to all!”

More colorful sights of the season in the Branson Tri-Lakes area

Night of Nativity at Faith Lutheran Church (Special to Branson Globe)

Lost Canyon Christmas (Photo by K.D. Michaels)

Veterans Memorial Garden (Photo by George Kurland)

Grand Village (Photo by K.D. Michaels)

Today in history

• 1688 King James II, the last Roman Catholic British monarch flees to France from William of Orange

• 1779 Benedict Arnold court-martialed for improper conduct

• 1783 US General George Washington resigns his military commission as Commander-in-Chief of the Army to Congress

• 1888 Vincent van Gogh cuts off his left ear with a razor, after argument with fellow painter Paul Gauguin, and sends to a prostitute for safe keeping

• 1913 US President Woodrow Wilson signs Federal Reserve Act into law

• 1920 Government of Ireland Act / Home Rule Act passed partitioning Ireland

• 1928 NBC sets up a permanent, coast-to-coast radio network

• 1930 Bette Davis arrives in Hollywood under contract to Universal Studios

• 1947 Transistor invented by John Bardeen, Walter H. Brattain and William Shockley in Bell Labs

• 1951 National Football League Championship, LA Memorial Coliseum: Los Angeles Rams beat Cleveland Browns, 24-17; first coast-to-coast televised NFL title game

• 1954 The first human kidney transplant is performed by Dr. Joseph E. Murray at Peter Bent Brigham Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts

• 1968 Frank Borman, Jim Lovell and William Anders become the 1st men to orbit the Moon

• 1971 US President Richard Nixon commutes remaining 8 years of Teamsters labor union leader Jimmy Hoffa’s 13-year jail term for bribery and fraud

• 1977 British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens formally converts to Islam, taking the name Yusuf Islam

• 1997 Chicago Bulls coach Phil Jackson is quickest to reach 500 wins (682 games)

info@bransonglobe.com 417-334-9100

NOTICES NOTICES NOTICES

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

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

TOPS MEETINGS: Since 1993, the nonprofit organization Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) meets weekly on Tuesdays at the Kimberling Area Library, 45 Kimberling Blvd. Weigh-in is from 4:30 to 5 p.m. with the meeting until 5:45 p.m. It is a community supported group to take off pounds for health and wellness. First visit is free. Visit tops.org for meetings and general information.

VETERANS & MILITARY COALITION OF THE OZARKS is an all-volunteer organization of veterans serving veterans. Contact us if you feel that you, as a veteran or veteran family, may not be receiving the benefits you deserve. Go to VMCO1.org and click on CONTACT at the top of the home page. VMCO meets monthly on the third Thursday of the month (no meeting in July or November) at the Golden Corral in Branson with 11:15 a.m. (optional) lunch buffet and 12-1 p.m. meeting.

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE don’t burn trees. Please don’t burn your garbage and don’t burn yourself.

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GRIEF

SHARE

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

EVERY FRIDAY ON SITE AT GUMI CAMP USA from noon until 2 p.m.: Licensed counselor/combat veteran available for group or private meetings • Free tour of the CAMP • Free meal provided by the Blue Star Mothers • Job placement assistance on and off site provided • Reflection and on-site workshops for spouses suffering from PTSD, mothers and fathers suffering from a loss of a son or daughter due to combat and more. Please call, text, or email and let us know you’re coming. Tim Hadler, 417-559-3892 tmhadler@gmail.com For directions to the camp entrance, Google GUMI CAMP USA and tap directions. We are here for you and your family’s needs.

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

CELEBRATE RECOVERY is a place to heal from your hurts, habits, and hangups. We meet every Tuesday night at 6:30 PM at Music City Centre, 1839 West 76 Country Blvd., Branson. For more information call 417–3202055 See you there!

KCI CONSTRUCTION SEEKS MBE/WBE BIDS for the Fish Hatchery & Conservation Center Replacement project. Contact us for additional information: tziegenbein@kciconstruction.com or 417590-8131 by 1/6/23.

SERVICES OFFERED

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

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

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

2023 BRANSON TRI-LAKES

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

FOR SALE

AKC REGISTERED DAME ALASKAN MALAMUTE Sire Siberian Husky puppies for sale. Asking $1,500. Call 417-239-5231 and 417-559-2809.

E-BIKE. 26” MAC WHEEL Battery and charger. Throttle and pedal assist, 6 speed. Like new, recreation or reliable transportation. $500 (NO TRADES). Phone or text, 417-527-4056.

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

RENT TO OWN AUTOS – LOW DOWN PAYMENT. NO Initial Taxes & License Fees. NO Credit Check. FREE 1 Year Warranty On Motor & Transmission. Rent to Own Your Auto Today! 1119 E. Hwy 76, Branson. 417-335-5400. renttoownautosbranson.com

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

ACE HOME IMPROVEMENT

– Heating & Air HVAC Service & Repair, Doors, Windows, Decks, Fences, Pressure Washing, Int & Ext. Painting, Siding, Roofing, Flooring, Tile & Drywall. Handy-man Work! Call Ryan: 417-335-1347

OFFICE HOURS 9am - 5pm

Monday to Friday

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

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

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. $1,275/Mo. Background app. fee $50. Call 417-337-0398.

HOME FOR SALE: Two bedroom/2 full bath, open floor plan, built in 1998, beautiful fireplace, double garage, LOCATION! 65 Hwy & 76 exit. $230k. 520-904-8828

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.

FOR SALE BY OWNER.

2bed/2bath condo in Kimberling City with panoramic views of TRL. Walk-in level with plantation blinds, crown molding, granite and hardwood floors. Recent appraisal $258k. Realtors welcome @ 2.5%. Call 702-2502549.

APARTMENT FOR RENT: NICE BRANSON 1 bedroom/1 bath. All appliances included. $525/mo. No pets. Available 12/01 lease. 417-339-7777.

FOR RENT: 2 BED/2 BATH CONDO, $1200/month. Pools, club house, golf, game room, theaters, restaurants. Furnished or not. Call 541-252-3015

COMMERCIAL SPACE

COMMERCIAL SPACE AVAILABLE FOR LEASE on Bus. Hwy 13, Branson West. Various sizes. 417-248-0062.

HELP WANTED

EDGEWATER COMMUNITY CHURCH is a small nondenominational church 27 miles west of Branson, MO. We are looking for an ordained pastor. Our website is available at edgewatercommunitychurch.org. If interested, contact the church via email at edgewaterchurch@yahoo.com.

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

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

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

WORK FOR THE BRANSON GLOBE! Delivery driver(s)needed. Must have reliable transportation. Four routes available. Great pay. 1099 position. Call Rob Doherty at 417-334-9100 or 504-583-8907.