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The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
What’s Happening! by Sydney Stone
The Dalena Ditto Show, one of my favorites, has moved to the Hamner Barber Theatre. Another change: it’s a 2:00 p.m. show. (I’m glad, those morning shows are hard for me to catch!) Dalena does a variety of music in her show, fun comedy and an excellent band. Her dad was “Tennessee Floyd” (who played with legends like Johnny Cash, Red Foley and Minnie Pearl); from the time she was very young she was performing, growing up around good music. She has a degree in music and broadcast journalism (Univ. of Iowa) and brings a lot of personal experience and professionalism to her show. Old and new country music, gospel, rock ‘n’ roll (love it!) ~ don’t miss it! Dalena opens her 2011 season on April 19 at Hamner
Mar/Apr 2011 Edition Page 3 nars, lots of Chef’s demonstrations, wonderful food and wine to sample and buy. Along with the “Chef of the Fest” and “Best of Missouri Wine Classic,” two new categories have been added, “Branson’s Best Burger” and “Branson’s Best Pizza.” (I’m there.) Festival hours are from 2 – 9 pm Friday, April 29; and noon to 9 pm Saturday, April 30. Some other things going on around town:
Barber. Read more in our next issue. The Second Annual Missouri Food & Wine Festival takes place at Chateau on the Lake again this year, April 29 & 30. It was really a nice event last year. There are a lot of vendors, semi-
Fifth Annual Irish Celebration at Titanic Branson is going on all month in March. Irish laborers helped build Titanic in Belfast and many Irish men and women served on her crew. Irish passengers outnumbered all other nationalities on board. Titanic honors the Irish—“the spirited, irrepressible, hardworking men and women from the Emerald
Isle.” Experience the music, song and folklore that accompanied them on their voyage to America. “T’is a grand time you and your family will be havin’ here at Titanic. Be sure to be wearin’ somethin’ green.” Bill Haley’s Comets have moved to Music City Centre, and so has Doug Gabriel. Rankin Brothers are at Mickey Gilley’s. The Osmonds are at the Caravelle Theatre. Come back in the fall to see AnnMargret with Andy Williams! That’s all. I’m done. (Thanks to Linda Burlingame for taking over my slot in the January – February issue while I was cruising warmer climates. I owe you one, Linda!)
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The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
The Pierce Arrow Show
also been with the one and only Sons of the Pioneers.
Branson’s Hottest Ticket in 2011 By Dirk Myers
Spring in the Ozarks is a beautiful thing to experience and in Branson Spring, 2011 is packed full of great shows for you to see. Pierce Arrow has become one of the most popular shows in Branson and this year they have turned it up a notch with great performers and entertainment for all ages. Pierce Arrow is established as one of Branson’s hottest male singing groups. Truly blessed with great talent, these guys have sung separately with some of the world’s best talent and now together they are a virtual whirlwind of entertainment. This group features the Guinness Book of World records lowest bass singer.
They feature amazing costumes and high-powered excitement in every show. These guys truly love working together and it shows. The Pierce Arrow Show also features Jarrett Dougherty, Branson’s
funniest comedian. His humor will split the sides of people of all ages. Jarrett has been in Branson performing since 1995 and the funny man has been with Pierce Arrow for several years making people laugh show after show. Jarrett has
Kim Boyce brings beautiful inspiration to the stage at the Pierce Arrow Theater. Kim is best known for her career in Contemporary Christian Music. Kim has seven albums with eleven number one hit songs. She has had several Dove Award nominations and has authored five books. If that isn’t enough, Kim was also Miss Florida and one of the top ten finalists in the Miss America Pageant in 1984. Desta is an Oklahoma native who loves all kinds of music, but country and gospel are definitely her favorites. Her influences include
L st c see ia n Brahance to nson, MO!
Celebrate 35 years for $35 For a limited time.Tax not included.
sight-sound.com • 800.377.1277
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The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
Patsy Cline, Reba McEntire, Martina McBride and Nicole C. Mullen. She has had leading roles in many musicals and won the True Value Country Showdown in 2003. Desta has played the piano for over 16 years and is also picking up the guitar. That much talent all in one show
would need to have a strong personality at the helm. Dan Britton was the original member of Pierce Arrow and now is the Executive Producer of the Pierce Arrow show. Dan is well known to Branson audiences. For many years, he was with the group The Branson Brothers, when they performed at Silver Dollar City.
When you come to Branson you need to take the time to see The Pierce Arrow Show; if you have seen the show this would be a great year to see it again. So many great performers and so much variety in one place; you will be glad you came. You can check out more
information at www.piercearrowtheater.com and book your tickets to the hottest show in Branson.
Call 336-8742 for Your Tickets!
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Hooray for Hollywood!
Brand new show at Branson Variety Theater By Linda Burlingame Hooray for Hollywood is an all-new show for 2011 at Branson Variety Theater in Branson. The show is fabulous, with brilliant song and dance moments from famous movies of the last 50 years. The nostalgic musical journey features classic movie highlights, from shows like Singin’ in the Rain, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid to Disney’s The Lion King. There’s a new projector, new big screen; the stage and curtain got a facelift. Movie film clips actually “come
to life” with the outstanding, talented cast of singers and dancers. Excellent costuming, choreography and musical arrangements combine to make it a dazzling production. The most exciting new show in Branson! The Twelve Irish Tenors ~ this show is a Branson favorite for all ages. Extremely talented singers, they are also clever lads with a charming, feisty stage presence. To be one of the Tenors, the singer must be Irish or possess a strong Irish heritage. The boys introduce themselves during the show. There’s Jeff from County Limerick and Jay from Galway Bay. Josh? He’s half Irish, half Italian and tells the audience that he’s the “best
The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
at Branson Variety Theater in Branson. The show has proven to be a “hand jivin’ good timin’ rock and roll dance party!” Hooray for Hollywood and Shake, Rattle & Roll were created by Branson Variety’s award-winning producer David King, one of England’s most famous producers; at any one time up to 20 of his shows are touring the world. Shake, Rattle & Roll was originally produced for King’s Monte Carlo venue.
looking and the only one who can cook.” John is from Waterford, the coastal “crystal” town. Adam says he’s from Drogheda, “and our chief export is handsome.” And so it goes. See what I mean by witty and amusing?! The staging is very good and the show moves at a lively pace. Their Irish songs and medleys are superb. They also sound fantastic with music like Josh Groban songs, Frank Sinatra, Barry Manilow, Glenn Miller, Beatles (I love their Hey, Jude), opera to pop, jazz to classical. In 2010 Shake, Rattle & Roll made its North American debut
Shake, Rattle & Roll is a “stroll” down memory lane. (Remember the dance?) Songs like Only You, Blue Suede Shoes, Good Golly Miss Molly, songs that have become classics. A large cast of talented singers and dancers, great costuming, and lots ‘n’ lots of costume changes complement the music of the 50’s and 60’s. When you are planning your Christmas trip, be sure to include the Christmas shows at Branson Variety, including the new Hollywood’s Christmas Spectacular! Great entertainment all year long at Branson Variety Theater!
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The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
NOAH – The Final Season
doors to the public and has quickly become a favored destination of Branson audiences. Noah - the Musical returned to the Branson stage in 2009 for a seven-month season, followed by the exciting premiere of theheartwarming family tradition Miracle of Christmas.
Sight and Sound Theater By Dirk Myers
It seems like just yesterday the Sight and Sound Theatre moved to Branson. People were all a buzz about what this company was going to bring to Branson. It seems that in all that excitement no one was left feeling flat. This theatre and show are definitely something to behold. Sight and S o u n d Theatres started in Pennsylvania as the vision that Glenn Eshelman and his wife Shirley experienced. Their great desire for the Arts and illustrating the Bible led them to renting out the Theatre at Lancaster Bible College. The show played to roughly 30,000 and gave them the seed money to purchase their first property in Pennsylvania July of 1976. Through the years and several venue changes made
When I took my family to see Noah we were truly amazed. My kids looked in wonder at the giant wrap around stage and just couldn’t seem to take it all in at once. It was amazing to me to see the intricate detail that was put into every animal and prop. As the show began I realized that in addition to the beautiful staging the talent was excellent too. This is truly a show that was professional and a joy to watch. Never before had I seen the Bible story in such clarity. I would definitely say this is a show that will delight patrons of all ages.
them realize that this vision would become the full-blown production that has prospered to this day. In May 2008, Branson, Missouri welcomed the inaugural “voyage” of one of Sight & Sound’s all-time favorite productions, Noah - the Musical! The brand new, state-ofthe-art, 2000-seat theatre opened its
With this being the final season of the show, your visit to Branson should include this experience. Noah is something every person should see and they will find no experience like it in Branson or anywhere else, Very few shows in Branson carry the message this one brings to it’s viewers and it can make you look at ideas you never considered before. I have mixed emotions about the show leaving the area. On one hand, I hate to see something so good leave. On the other, I am very excited to see what is next in the Sight and Sound venue. I really enjoy the way that the Bible is brought to life in this way and I think the Sight and Sound group will bring justice and grace to any storyline they portray. Get your tickets today! You can call at 1-(800) 377-1277 or order online at www.sight-sound.com. Ask about their group discounts if you are bringing a crowd. This is a great opportunity for any traveling coach or church group. This is truly one show you will be glad you had the opportunity to see!
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The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction Extraordinary Experience! by Linda Burlingame
Arrive at Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction, stroll along the Horse Walk admire the beautiful horses in their elegant stalls, enter the big Southern Mansion, then settle in for a lot of fun, delicious food and grand entertainment! “Stampede of the Buffalo” returns to Dixie in 2011, “back by popular demand.” (Seems they do pay attention to audience feedback.) Six tons of American bison! It takes a giant venue to accommodate a production like that — the Dixie Stampede arena is 35,000 sq. ft. and there’s not a bad seat in the “house.” The bison open a show that is full of fun, excitement, beauty and talent. Another production number returning in 2011 is “Belles of the Ball.” Four waltzing couples and the featured dressage-trained (“airs above the ground”) American Show Horse. The precision and elegance of this number is marvelous. A cast of talented singers and dancers and thirtytwo amazing horses bring the entire show to life. Appaloosas, Belgian draft horses, quarter horses, paints, pigs (pigs?). From fast and furious to light and elegant, the show is fan-
tastic, laced with friendly NorthSouth rivalry, audience participation, lots of music and fun. Barrel racing, a Roman rider jumping through a ring of fire, Southern bells in all their finery, pig races … what fun! Just as remarkable is the delicious dinner. My favorite may be the creamy vegetable soup, or maybe the herbroasted potatoes. All of it is wonderful, prepared and cooked right there at Dixie Stampede in their incredible kitchen, served hot and fresh. You’ll also enjoy the hickorysmoked pork loin, tender whole rotisserie chicken, homemade buttermilk biscuits, corn on the cob and the flaky apple turnover served for dessert. The wait staff is efficient and also part of the fun as they help the audience cheer their side — the North or the South — on to victory in the contests that go on in the arena. The pre-show in the Carriage
Room is fun for all with the Comedy of Lucas. D a v i d L u c a s “brings to the stage an explosion of physical comedy unlike anything you’ve seen before!” I find myself thinking, “How does he do that?!” Don’t overdo on the peanuts and non-alcoholic drinks, remember the meal that awaits you! Plan your arrival (at least an hour before show time) to allow time to enjoy the Horse Walk
and pre-show. The horses are gorgeous, so well groomed; their stalls are beautiful, roomy and well designed. They are treated to 13,200 bales of bedding, approximately 528,000 pounds of pine shavings. Continuing to take good care of the horses, the arena floor is a unique combination of 320,000 pounds of clay, 160,000 pounds of river sand, and 100,000 pounds of gravel—
a surface that is dust-free and easy on the horses’ legs. The animal aspects of the show always fascinate me. I’ve owned horses and know they require a lot of care. A year or so ago when I got these interesting statistics from Dixie, I learned they use 3500 bales of hay; that’s 262,500 pounds. The horses go through 1,152 shoes per year and 104,000 pounds of grain. All that feed…well, that “translates” to 832,000 pounds of manure! Bison … never knew much about them. Found out there are herds scattered throughout the U.S. in preserved areas and number in the thousands. Each of the Dixie bison weighs 8002,000 pounds and is nearly six feet tall at the shoulder. They can run at speeds up to 62 km/
hour and are good swimmers. (Who knew?!) These magnificent creatures communicate vocally through grunts and snorts. (Now we know.) Dixie Stampede is a wonderful experience, for people of all ages … share it with your friends and families and have fun!
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The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
The New Americana Theatre Hot Talent Joining Forces By Dirk Myers
Just when I think the Americana Theater can’t add anymore highpowered talent to their schedule it seems they do just that. In addition to The Haygoods, Red Hot and Blue, and Cassandre’, they have added Joseph Hall. There is so much that is good to see here you can basically book your vacation to this venue alone and see some of the best that Branson has to offer, The Haygoods have been performing in Branson for over eighteen years, and they show the polish and professionalism of seasoned veterans. I don’t know that I was completely expecting that simply because they are quite young in appearance at first glance. I knew from the first song that this show was different from any family show in the area. The energy and talent kept me on the edge of my seat from the very beginning to the
end. Innovative staging and effects made this show fun to watch; the use of state of the art technology adds subtle aspects that make the show a one of a kind experience. The great thing about this show is the variety the Haygoods display. Violin (fiddle), saxophone, guitar, and harp barely touch the tip of the iceberg of what this family can play. Just when you think you have seen it all someone breaks something else out and shows one more facet of their talent. In addition to that they are great vocalists as well. Singing everything from Country and Rock and Roll to Classic Hits and Celtic folk songs. I could not believe the range of talent this family displays. Cassandre’ has a one-of-a-kind voice recognized by concertgoers around the world!! Her uniquely clear, pure tone, with incredible depth and range will delight your ears and will move you. She effort-
The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
lessly transitions through so many musical styles that those who attend Cassandre’s show RAVE about the amazing musical experience and comment over and over that they never expected to see such a production here in Branson! Red, Hot and Blue! -- Awarded
Best Morning Show, Best Dance Group and Best Vocal Group! Red, Hot... & Blue is an entertainment phenomenon that has taken Branson by storm for 16 smash hit seasons! ALL AGES absolutely love the high-energy experience of attending a Red, Hot and Blue performance! …Now bigger, better and more exciting than ever before! These incredible entertainers sing and dance their hearts out in this fabulous, high-energy, beautifully costumed production show featuring the timeless melodies you will absolutely love reminiscing to! Sit back and relax as the “Hardest Working
Cast in Branson” takes you on nostalgic journey back to the classic jazz era of the 1940’s, the hilarious 1950’s, the Rockin’ 1960’s, the disco flash of the 1970’s. Joseph Hall is the newest addition to the Americana Theatre list of performers. Joseph is truly an experience that will have you wondering if you have truly stepped into the past. Recognized by Elvis Presley Enterprises, Joseph Hall has a very authentic show that brings “The King” himself to life in every performance. He was recently a top 10 finalist in America’s Got Talent and he has a whole new show that will knock your socks off. Make your plans to visit the Americana Theatre this vacation and catch these shows. You can
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call the theatre at 417-339-4663 and make your reservations to see some of the most amazing talent in Branson.
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King’s Quarters
Kings Quarters offers over 100 rooms with inside corridors, 2 queen beds, and ground level or elevator accessibility. Great outdoor pool for the kids, deluxe continental breakfast in the morning and Branson entertainment during the day followed by a wonderful night’s sleep at King’s Quarters makes this a winning choice for all.
Location, Comfort, and Affordability By Penny Lane
When you come to Branson it’s important to find the most comfortable location at the best price with all the things you need while you are in town. The King’s Quarters is just that place in Branson. The King’s Quarters is a great place with very comfortable rooms. The
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great thing about the location is it is located right in the thick of things but it has a great rural view providing some nice scenery when you are back at the room.
It’s true that when you come to Branson so much time is spent out you have little time in the hotel room itself, but there is always a chance plans change. If you run into a rainy patch and it gets in the way of your outdoor plans or you just need a relaxing afternoon by the pool; in either case they have you covered. It’s nice to have a place to stay with room to accommodate you if you need it for family time and
relaxation.
Are you bringing a group in and need meeting space? The King’s Quarters is able to handle that for you as well. They are also quite accommodating for large groups; a great location to bring reunion groups or tours. Call and ask about group rates. In any occasion The King’s Quarter is the best choice if you want regal treatment at a family budget price. Call us at 1-800507-5464 and reserve your rooms now!!
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The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
• SHOW AND ATTRACTION GUIDE • SHOW
THEATRE
PHONE
SHOW
THEATRE
PHONE
3 Redneck Tenors
Mansion America
417-239-1333
Moscow Circus
Yakov Smirnoff
417-336-3838
Acrobats of China
New Shanghai
417-336-8888
Oak Ridge Boys
#1 Hits Of The 60’S
Absolutely Patsy
Always, Patsy Cline
Caravelle
Branson Mall
417-339-1960 417-334-5412
Moe Bandy
Noah the Musical
God and Country
417-334-6806
Oak Ridge Boys-( Limited Engagements)
Moon River Theatre
417-334-1800
Paul Revere & The Raiders
Music City Center
417-339-7469
Presleys’ Country Jubilee
Dick Clark Bandstand
417-336-3100
Ride The Ducks
Clay Cooper
417-337-7123
Shake Rattle & Roll
Jim Stafford
417-335-8080
Sight and Sound
800-377-1277
417-239-1333
417-335-2484
Ozark Mountain Jubilee
Grand Country
417-335-2484
417-336-4718
Pierce Arrow
Pierce Arrow
417-336-8742
417-334-6110
Red Hot & Blue
New Americana
417-339-4663
417-332-2282
Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley
Starlite
417-337-9333
Butterfly Palace
417-332-2231
Shepherd of the Hills Historic Homestead Tour
The Shepherd of the Hills
417-334-4191
Cat’s Pajamas
The Duttons
417-332-2772
Cirque Montage
Starlite
The Shepherd of the Hills
417-334-4191
Shoji Tabuchi
417-334-7469
Silver Dollar City
417-338-8174
Amazing Pets
Andy Williams
Barbara Fairchild Show & Diner Bill Haley’s Original Comets
Grand Country
Victorian Village
Branson Scenic Railway, Inc
Old Downtown Branson
Brule
RFD
Brett Family Singers Buckets n’ Boards
Butterfly Palace & Rainforest
Cassandre’ The Voice of An Angel Chubby Checker Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express
New Americana
ICON Theatre Clay Cooper
Comedy Jamboree
Grand Country
Dalena Ditto Variety Show
Hamner Barber
Country Tonite
Diana The People’s Princess Dixie Stampede
Doug Gabriel Show
Dutton Family Show George Dyer
Hamner Barber Variety Show Haygood Family Enterprises Hooray For Hollywood Hughes Brothers IMAX
Inspiration Tower Jim Stafford
417-339-4663
417-336-4266 417-337-9333 417-337-7123
417-335-2484
417-334-4363
Showboat Branson Belle
417-336-7971
SIX
417-332-2772
Spirit of Christmas
417-334-4363
The Gatllin Brothers & Debby Boone Christmas
Ride The Ducks Branson Variety
417-334-4874
417-334-3825 417-334-2500
The Shepherd of the Hills
417-334-4191
The Shepherd of the Hills
417-334-4191
White River Landing
417-338-8174
417-239-1333
Shoji Tabuchi
Roy Rogers
417-335-6611
Silver Dollar City
417-339-7469
Sons of the Pioneers Dinner Show
Pavilion - Shepherd
417-334-4191
417-332-2772
Texas Tenors
Starlite
417-337-9333
The Rat Pack
ICON Theatre
417-336-4266
Titanic
Titanic
417-334-9500
Tom Mullica’s Tribute to Red Skelton
Mansion America
417-239-1333
Top 10 Rock and Roll Revue
Branson Mall
417-334-5412
White Water
White Water
417-339-6806
Toy Museum
417-332-1499
Dixie Stampede
Music City Center Dutton Family Dutton Family
Hamner Barber
New Americana
417-339-4663
Hughes Brothers
417-336-3688
Branson Variety Little Opry
The Shepherd of the Hills
417-334-2500 417-335-3533 417-334-4191
Joseph Hall’s Elvis Tribute
New Americana
417-339-4663
Lee Greenwood and Louise Mandrell
Welk Resort
417-337-7469
Mickey Gilley’s
Kirby VanBurch
417-334-5100
417-337-7140
Legends in Concert
Dick Clark Bandstand
417-339-3003
Liverpool Legends - Beatles Tribute
Mansion America
417-337-9333
Legend of Kung Fu
Presley’s
417-334-1800
Oak Ridge Boys
417-335-8080
Kirby VanBurch
Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights
Shepherd of the Hills Christmas On the Trail
Jim Stafford
Joey Riley Comedy & Music Review
Shepherd of the Hills Old Mill Theatre Drama
Moon River Theatre
White House
417-335-2396
The Twelve Irish Tenors Todd Oliver and Friends
Tony Orlando -Great American Christmas Vigilante Extreme ZipRider
World Famous Platters
World’s Largest Toy Museum Yakov Smirnoff
Hughes Brothers Branson Variety
Mansion America
Branson Variety Jim Stafford Welk Resort
The Shepherd of the Hills ICON Theatre Yakov Smirnoff
417-336-3688 417-334-2500 417-239-1333
417-334-2500
417-335-8080 417-337-7469
417-334-4191
417-336-4266 417-336-3838
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The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
Silver Dollar City Presents Half Dollar Holler:
A Million Dollar Play Area with Big Adventures for Little Explorers! Adventure rules at Silver Dollar City’s new Half Dollar Holler, an allnew super-sized play area for little explorers, with treetop fun houses and climbing nets, box crawls and slides, mini-wave swings and truckloads of sand for hands-on play. The centerpiece is a vintage classic with a new spin: Silver Dollar City’s hand-carved carousel returns in a brand-new way with whimsical woodland creatures to ride. This million dollar play area is a treetop wonderland designed for kids up to age 7, opening in spring 2011.
Showboat Branson Belle’s New Shows Encore! & Funny Fiddles Bring Three New Headline Acts to Branson Showboat Branson Belle launches into 2011 with ENCORE!, an allnew world-class production featured on evening cruises, and Funny Fiddles, an all-new comedy cruise, bringing three new headline acts to Branson, plus a new menu, new staging and decor - making 2011 the biggest change year in the 700-seat paddle wheeler’s 15 year history.
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The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
Church Directory All Visitors Welcome Call for Service Times
Assembly of God First Assembly of God 600 West Main, Branson 417-334-3803
Episcopal Shepherd of the Hills Episcopal 107 Walnut, Branson 417-334-3968
Baptist First Baptist Church 400 South Sunshine, Branson 417-334-7437
Foursquare Branson Foursquare Church 2287 Fall Creek Rd., Branson 417-339-5911
Calvary Baptist Church 625 Truman Dr., Branson 417-336-3475
Full Gospel River of Life, Church Alive! 1307 Bird Rd., Branson 417-334-8287
Skyline Baptist Church 949 State Hwy 165, Branson 417-334-6729 Bible Church Branson Bible Church 533 Branson Landing Blvd. Branson Ph: 417-334-3678 Fellowship at Cross Creek T Hwy. - T10 417-335-8008 Catholic Our Lady of the Lake Vaughn Dr., Branson 417-334-3350 Christian Branson Christian Church 213 S. Commercial, Branson 417-334-3453 Church of Christ Church of Christ Hwy. 165 (near Welk), Branson 417-336-3120 Church of God Church of the Apostolic Faith 100 East Main, Branson Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Church Road, Branson
Jehovah’s Witnesses Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses Hwy. 65-70, Branson 417-334-5507 Lutheran Faith Lutheran Parnell & Malone St., Branson 417-334-2469 Peace Lutheran Church ELCA 350 State Drive Hollister, MO 417-334-1499 Methodist United Methodist 1208 W. Hwy. 76, Branson 417-334-3423 Non-Denominational Salvation Army Church 1819 W. Hwy. 76, Branson 417-339-4434 Unity of the Hills 4868 Hwy. 248, Branson 417-334-6224 Pentecostal Old Branson Pentecostal 600 West Main, Branson 417-334-3803 Presbyterian FIrst Presbyterian 420 West Main, Branson 417-334-3468
The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
Branson Craft Mall By Linda Burlingame
Everyone loves the Branson Craft Mall. located on Hwy. 165. Besides Old John’s Wo o d s h e d , the 16,000 sq. ft. facility is home to pottery, leather work, potato bags, brass engravings, musical instruments, clever signs, handbags, hundreds of other gifts and accessories. Larry King, a silver and goldsmith,
creates beautiful jewelry. He does “lost wax” castings, remarkable wildlife pieces and the most detailed coin piercing. Nearby, Nan has an endless variety of shirts, tops and jackets at Nan’s Classic Creations. Ladies LOVE the appliquéd shirts, matching tank tops, the rhinestone knit tops and denim jackets. She can customize something for you while you wait. The Hillbilly Nut & Fruit area of Branson Craft Mall has really expanded. There’s a lot to sample:
Mar/Apr 2011 Edition Page 21 Yogurt Covered Cranberries to coffees and fudge, French Burnt Peanuts, Rainbow Coconut slices (remember those!), Cashew Brittle. Granny’s Favorites like Honey BBQ Sauce, Apple Butter, Elderberry Jam, Sassafras Tea (smells heavenly). Such variety! Ozark Mountain Coffee Co. has everything from “Jamaican Me Crazy” flavor to “Marshmallow Nut Crème” to “B-52. “ I’m guessing that’s a strong brew. Juanita Herrell’s mosaic work is the newest art at Branson Craft Mall. Her work is beautifully unique. Using no commercial tiles, she cuts each piece by hand, then fires and glazes: no broken pieces or rough edges. Her art is astonishing; her technique has been published and written about. She is a member of The Best of Missouri Hands, the Missouri
Artisan Association. Stop in and browse … Branson Craft Mall … the mall that has it all!
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Jim Stafford …
“Out of his mind and into your heart!” by Linda Burlingame I’m not sure who came up with that, but it is funny. It goes along with what I have said, “Jim wakes up in a new world every day!” Meaning you never know what to expect, things change … but you can always count on fun. That’s the way I feel about the Jim Stafford Show, it’s always new and fun. As many times as I’ve seen it since 1990, I always enjoy it, always laugh, and always love watching the audience reaction. Jim’s show really is fun, and funny, whether it’s the music, the comedy songs — Cow Patty is one of my favorites! — the black light
number, 3-D adventure, or something as simple as “Roll C a l l . ” Practice m a k e s perfect, playing the guitar or doing c o m e d y. Jim practices both. He told me when he began doing comedy, he put up mirrors all around the room and practiced in front of them. He perfected his expressions and timing: how long to pause between lines; how long to maintain eye contact; is it a nod of the head or a body turn? A myriad of emotions and tiny motions make all the difference!
The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
of Elvis, Glen Campbell, Faith Hill, Shania Twain, Marty Robbins and other recording artists. Shea and G.G., Jim and Ann’s two children, are still part of the show. They’re growing up, turning into seasoned performers. Shea and G.G. have been part of the show since they were babies. Sheaffer is now 18 and G.G. is 14. (I remind everyone again, we don’t get old as fast as our kids.)
Jim is one of the most talented guitarists anywhere. Whether he’s playing Mason Williams’s Classical Gas or his own Spiders and Snakes, it’s magnificent. Jim has been “makin’ a living” with his guitar since he was 16 years old. Jim is in good company when it comes to hit songs. Spiders and Snakes (1974) sits in the top 50 of Billboard’s Hot 100 Country Songs, along with the hits
Jim will never stop practicing. I’ll never stop enjoying The Jim Stafford Show! And I’m betting you won’t either. Enjoy!
Call to make Reservations at 417-335-8080!
The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette
The Vigilante Extreme ZipRider – Extreme Fun for All Ages By Sharena Naugher
When you’re ready to see the beautiful Ozarks from a whole new perspective you need to head to The Shepherd of the Hills to ride the Vigilante Extreme ZipRider. It just opened the summer of 2010 and visitors have been raving about the fun and thrilling ride!
The Vigilante launches from the top of Inspiration Tower, making it the highest launch site of a ZipRider anywhere in the country. You can purchase your tickets at the tower, and then glass elevators take riders up to the enclosed observation deck. There you’ll have a chance to fill out paperwork and go over the rules and restrictions. Riders must be between 75-275 lbs and, just like at the doctor’s office,
you’ll need to hop on discreet scales before you go (aren’t you glad the license bureau isn’t like that?) Now you’re in the ride que and you’ll have a chance to watch other riders launch out the panoramic windows. When your turn is up, you’ll
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travel down a short flight of steps to the launch pad. There the friendly ride operators will get you comfortably seated in the harness and ready for take off. When all 4 riders are ready its time for launch. The gates open and you are soaring 200 feet above the ground! You will travel a half a mile and reach speeds of 50 mph on the way to the landing pad. After the surprising gentle landing, ride operators will help you disembark and then you’ll hop on a shuttle for the ride back up to Inspiration Tower. There you’ll have the opportunity to view and purchase a photo snapped of you mid-zip! Guests who are not riding can walk out on Inspiration Point to watch your takeoff from the ground. There
are pouches in the back of your seat to store small items, like flipflops or sunglasses, but purses and camera bags should be left in the car or with someone not riding. You’re welcome to hold onto a small camera on the ride down if you dare risk it, but hang on tight! Reservations are not required, but the wait can be an hour or longer during peak periods. It’s best to call 1-800653-6288 to make reservations for a specific time, then you’ll go to the front of the que when you arrive, significantly decreasing your wait time. The Vigilante Extreme ZipRider – definitely an amazing experience you will not forget!
Get Your Tickets to Ride Today at www. VigilanteZiprider. com! It’s the Most Exciting Ride in Branson!