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THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS GAZETTE
Grape stomping to start ...
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nd the Ugly Monkey Trophy is up for grabs again! There are teams currently forming for this years event with hopes of capturing the honor of winning and taking home the bragging rights as grape stomping champs and receiving the Ugly Monkey Trophy. This year will be By the 11th Annual Bryan Sheppard Grape and Fall Festival. In the previous years there have been as many as 5,000 people in attendance, with this year looking to be one of the most exciting and well-attended festivals ever. So folks gather the children and don’t forget grandma or grandpa, and get down to the Old Historic Downing Street, located in downtown Hollister, Saturday, Sept. 26. Events kick off at 10 a.m. and the fun keeps going until 6 p.m. The festival will feature great food, crafts, children’s activities, live music and entertainment from some of Branson’s best performers like SIX, The Red Kneckers, and America’s Kids, with Jim Barber acting as emcee, and a wine tasting garden. In the early 1900’s, Hollister was an important stop on the railroad with fall being the time when everyone brought along their goods to Hollister for transportation to larger markets so they may be sold. This festival is based on an early
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1900’s grape carnival. It has been said that a very long time ago a large grape crop was produced in the Hollister area. This years festival is honoring the history of Hollister’s 100 years and looking to the future of many things to come. The event originated in the early 1900s to celebrate the annual grape harvest, as local growers shipped their produce to markets via the railroads. T h e
modern version features live music and entertainment, great food, a wine-tasting garden, crafts, children’s activities, and the highlight of the festival, the Grape Stomping Contest. Make sure you grab your camera and your stomping shoes for a great time Saturday, Sept. 26. The Grape and Fall Festival is presented by the Hollister Area Chamber of Commerce.
White River Valley Electric Coop employees stomping grapes at last year’s Grape and Fall Festival.
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THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS GAZETTE
Branson Craft Mall really has it all ... and more
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he “mall that has it all” has something for everyone, from precious accessories for babies to handmade musical instruments and custom designed shirts, to items for anyone on your By gift list. Linda Burlingame The Branson Craft Mall is a “must-see” on your Branson schedule! The 16,000 sq. ft. mall is home to 150 booths and nine working crafters. That includes space for big rockers and an oversized checkers board, in case someone finishes browsing before you do. There is also a husband’s babysitting service back in the Woodshed…. You may have read my articles about Old John’s Woodshed in previous issues of The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette. Paul is a talented wood turner and an entertaining one. His clever ban-
ter fascinates everyone as he explains and demonstrates the items he makes: tops, game calls, pens, husband tamers (rolling pins), pocket knives, pepper grinders, kaleidoscopes, and a few dozen more items. Nan has countless choices for you, too, at her Classic Creations: an endless array and variety of ideas for custom designed shirts, jackets, caps, jeans … love my glamorous kitty cat shirt. I also love Nan’s story. (Most crafters have a good one.) Nan spent many years as a contractor, building homes in New England and New York. When she retired and moved to
Branson, the hobby she loves turned into a full-time business. Originally from Vermont, Nan features Vermont Maple Syrup at Hillbilly Nut & Fruit Too. There
others on the pickin’ porch. At Sunshine Leatherworks there’s Greg, doing what he’s been doing since 1976, when he spent $5 on scrap leather and
are a lot of choices. Art Reed, who crafts wonderful dulcimers, fiddles, guitars, mandolins and other instruments, says he is just a professional musician whose woodworking hobby got the best of him. You might find him and
$2 for tools. No kits or patterns, just an interest in the art of tooling leather. It’s mesmerizing to watch him work and I know it’s not as easy as he makes it look. Walking through I see so many fun things: a sign saying “Martha Doesn’t Live Here” and
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one of my favorites: “Husker Fans Live Here.” Really like that one. Marty’s beautiful baskets and Larry’s striking Silver Highlights; David is making cedar signs back by Old John’s Woodshed. There are gorgeous home decorating accessories, charming country snowmen and scarecrows, pottery, Les’ amazingly intricate, and beautiful brass etchings. You might run into Mark, one of the owners of the mall. You can always find him playing fiddle with Ricky Boen’s “Texas Mud” at the Hamner-Barber Theatre. Mark has been playing since he was 11 and played with Roy Clark’s band. Branson is full of interesting stories, and you can find lots of them … and more … at Branson Craft Mall. Enjoy!
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Yellows, reds, oranges, and greens ... oh my! THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS GAZETTE
can hardly wait, for the time is near. The time to fuel up the automobile grab the map and camera and head out to view some beautiful fall foliage. I’m talking about the time when the majestic Ozark Mountainsides play chameleon and change color for the fall season. Folks have By Bryan Sheppard been flocking to the Ozarks for years to see the breathtaking sights that appear year after year. The Ozarks offer so many different ways to view nature’s splendors. One of the most common ways is by car. Folks can take a nice slow ride around the Branson area by taking one or more of the many scenic highways that wind their way though both Stone and Taney counties. That’s why it is good to grab a map. A lot of these highways have places one can pull over to take in the natural wonders and capture it on film, digital or the real thing.
Either way one will not be disappointed in the trip and will have many treasured photos to share with family and friends. Another way to take in the views is to visit The Shepherd of the Hills Homestead, a place where one can view the area from a true birds eye view at the top of the Inspiration Tower: at 230 feet you’re surely to get to see it all. This is a favorite since there isn’t much walking involved. There has not been a time that I’ve visited the old homestead and have not been inspired by the views overlooking Mutton Hollow, the very place that inspired author Harold Bell Wright to write the book, “The Shepherd of the Hills.” One way that I have not had the pleasure to try yet, but is on my to-do list, is to cruise down the great Lake Taneycomo on a boat. I have had the joy of checking out the scenery during the summer months, and a fall trip down Taneycomo surely would be a must do. With the trees lining the rocky
The Shepherd of the Hills Historical Society Publisher SHARENA NAUGHER Editor PAT SNADON Contributing Editor
JAPHETH CAMPBELL Online Director
JEN SHEPPARD Layout & Design Manager
LINDA BURLINGAME BRYAN SHEPPARD KURT MOORE Advertising Executives PAULA LIVELY Distribution
SHANE NAUGHER Technical Director
The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette is published five times per year and is distributed free of charge at state and regional outlets or by mail at an annual subscription rate of $10.00 for five issues. If you have any problems with your paper delivery, please call 417-332-1099 or write us at 118 State Drive, Hollister, Missouri 65672. The Shepherd of the Hills Gazette reserves the right to edit or delete any and/or all objectional wording or decline any advertisements.
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
bluffs, it has to be a breathtaking view with the yellows, reds, and greens mixing together. For this trip you can bring your own boat or rent one from one of t h e m a n y marinas. I would suggest a pont o o n boat and b r i n g friends and family along w i t h f o o d , a n d maybe a fishing pole. One last idea is a train ride. One can board the Branson Scenic Railway in old downtown Branson at the depot. The train will take you on a 40-mile round trip through the Ozark Mountains where you will learn about the history of the area as you take in the views. While on
the train you will cross bridges, encounter tunnels, and view the fall foliage. It seems as long as the autumn weather is just right the once green
leaves of the many trees and shrubs on the mountainsides began to change to their bright yellows, glowing oranges, and vibrant reds. The Ozark Mountain area would be a great choice for your fall foliage viewing. Hope to see you out there.
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Welcome to ‘My Kitchen Window’ THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS GAZETTE
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
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ne of my greatest passions in life is cooking. I read recipe books like others read novels. I can almost taste a recipe, just by reading it. The really good ones are taken for a spin in my kitchen where I test recipes My Kitchen over and over, Window changing the ingreBy dients here and Sharon Elizabeth there, to make them extra delicious and special. Cooking can be fun and an expression of one’s love to others. Nothing says love like something fresh from the oven. SOUR CREAM POUND CAKE INGREDIENTS: 2 Sticks Unsalted Butter (1/2 Pound) 3 cups sugar 6 large eggs, separated 3 cups all purpose flour ¼ teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon baking soda
¼ 1 1 8
teaspoon salt teaspoon vanilla extract teaspoon almond extract ounces sour cream
DIRECTIONS: • Cream butter and sugar. Beat well. • Add egg yokes one at a time, beating well after each addition. • Add vanilla and almond extract. • Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt, then • Add increments of 1/3 flour mixture and 1/2 sour cream to creamed mixture alternately. (Beginning and ending with flour mixture.) • Beat egg whites (at room temperature) until stiff; gently fold into batter. • Pour batter into a greased floured 10 inch tube pan. • Bake at 325ºF for 1½ hours or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. • Cool 10 minutes; remove from pan, and cool completely.
TIPS: Use an oven thermometer to verify oven temperature. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
A Sour Cream Pound Cake can be made a couple days ahead of time and still taste fresh. Serve a slice of cake with ice cream then drizzle chocolate syrup or caramel sauce (or both) on top of the cake and ice cream. Another special way to serve the cake is with fresh strawberries and a simple berry
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sauce* with a dollop of whip cream or cool whip served on top or the side with a light dusting of confectioners sugar over plate and dessert. (*Sugar and berries cooked to a light syrup is the base for a simple sauce). Leftover cake can be used to make a trifle. A trifle is made by layering cake, pudding, sauce, cream cheese layers, fruit and whip cream. Your imagination dictates the end results. Top with whip cream, sprinkle with nuts and/or fruit. Usually a trifle is made in a clear container to show off all the layers.
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Putting together an Outdoor Drama
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ephe rd been with The Sh s ha er ff ni K Dorthy e also for 42 ye ars. Sh of the Hills play nt ry. pa od e Crane fo voluntee rs at th
Ph ot os of pe op le pa st an d pres en t ho ld a lo t of m emor ie s fo r th os e as so ci ated w it h th e produc ti on .
st are re st ing Some of th e ca th ei r pa rt s be fo re ta ki ng on in th e sh ow.
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t is a play but not just any play. It has love, romance, laughter, tears, hatred, fighting, shooting, comedy, music, fire and dancing along with nearly every basic human emotion coursing through its many lines and scenes. It is also the longest running outdoor play in American history. All of this from one book. One hundred By and two years Kurt Moore ago, Harold Bell Wright visited these beautiful Missouri Ozark hills, fell in love with the area and it's people, returned again and again and wrote the fourth most read book in American history, “The Shepherd of the Hills.” It is almost mind-boggling to understand the logistics of putting on this play night after night, year after year. The play started being performed in the front yard of Old Matt's Cabin on the present The Shepherd of the Hills property in 1927. From there it was performed on the Branson lake front, then at the Beacon Hill Theater and finally at its present location, The Shepherd of the Hills Amphitheater at the Shepherd of the
Kei th Thur man , ou tdoor theate r man ager, going over last minute preparat ions. He is ce le brat ing his 42nd ye ar w it h the produc tion .
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great time. Cast and kids alike have Hills complex. Since 1960, the play has been a barrel of fun with a sack of huge presented at its present location. It Ozark frogs. Mark Twain would have has been performed night after night been proud of all of them. Keith Thurman, Shepherd of the for the past 49 years. The play takes tremendous resources to produce. Hills Outdoor Theater Manager, took Let me give you examples. Each play performed takes 150 yards of burlap, 90 cast members, 50 gallons of kerosene, 31 horses, 30 pistols and shotguns, 22 wireless microphones, eight mules, seven buggies and wagons, a six piece bluegrass band, a flock of sheep, a donkey, an actual burning log cabin, an antique 1908 DeWitt automobile, a goat named Henry, and a partridge in a pear tree. Oh yes, I almost forgot. It also takes a sack of frogs—just Terry Sanders noted Branson comedian, is added the partridge to see if providing entertainment as the Grand Frog you were paying attention. Master at the All American Frog Race. Bet you are wondering about the sack of frogs, right? Well before the show actually begins me on a personal tour and told me of there is an all out, winner-take-all the logistics needed to put this show frog race. This is run by kids from the on. This month Keith is celebrating audience and boy do they ever take his 42nd year with the play along their frog racing seriously. They take with a fellow trooper, Dorothy Kniffer. My assignment was to tell you it just seriously enough to have a
Th e st art of th e Great Amer ic ai t R ac w l al s on an Frog ag w e. Th is ha pp en s gg ie s an d bu , es rs just be fo re sh ow ho , s. es am te Mul ve ti ec ti me an d kids of al l th ei r re sp ages lo ve it. to be hi tche d to
- The Shepherd of the Hills
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instrument comes into play to create the masterpiece you ultimately hear, so it is with Shepherd of the Hills. It is impossible to tell how each piece
This is the cabin that burns during each performance. Burlap is rolled, attached to the side of the cabin, doused with kerosene & then lit. how this show comes together, from beginning to end, to create what you see as the finished product. I found that is really impossible. The show, as a finely tuned orchestra, comes together like an unseen force to create The Shepherd of the Hills, the play. As it is impossible with an orchestra to tell how each individual
Ja so n Hu ds on, so un d engi ne er fo r th e pl ay, ha s se en th e ac tu al pl ay more th an 3,5 00 ti mes .
fits together to form the final product, the play, that people have been enjoying for so many decades. Therefore, I have decided to literally show you in photos and allow your mind to make the journey from before the show begins to the final bow by the cast. Sit back, relax and take a pictorial tour at what it takes to create a single The Shepherd of the Hills play. About an hour before show time, the cast starts gathering about 100 yards off the stage, at the dressing area. There they have time to relax, visit and get their Th e st age area costumes in order. This is as se en from an uppe r tier se at. No m at te where we begin. r w he re yo u si t du ri ng th e pl ay, yo u w ill ha ve a go od view .
gh t fl ames each ni Th is ca bi n is in an d Ba ld kn obbe rs st w hi le a grou p of ch it bu rn arou nd an d wat
Do c of th e pl ay is po rt raye d by Sa nders. Te rr y Te rr y in re al lif e pl ay s m any ro le s. O nc e in a grea t w hi le he is ev en hi mse lf.
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each pl ay, At th e cl os e of ts a th e Hi lls pres en Th e Sh ephe rd of ra ns . ute to ou r ve te ho rs eb ac k tr ib
Yo ung M at t an d Samm y La ne da nc e to a si x piec e bl ue gras s ba nd du ri ng in te rm is si on .
mobile 08 DeWit t au to An an tique 19 ti ng ai aw th e pl ay th at is us ed in it 's dr iver.
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Fall into something cozy at Quilts & Quilts
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utumn in the Ozarks is a beautiful time of year! Leaves on Missouri’s hundreds of varieties of trees dress the hillsides in gorgeous colors, there’s a nip in the air, and crafters head to Branson. Many of these talented, industrious folks are quilt makers; By Linda Burlingame the one place for s u r e they’ll be stopping is Quilts & Quilts Country Store. Located on Hwy. 76 east of Dixie Stampede, Quilts & Quilts is a huge store full of beautiful quilts. There is a marvelous selection of quilts, both handmade and machine made. You’ll find a good selection of styles, colors, and prices. There are more than 10,000 bolts of fabric and
THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS GAZETTE
more than 1,000 book titles to help you make your own quilt. There are patterns for magnificent quilts, cozy quilt jackets, vests, colorful dresses, and dozens of other things. Many of these are sewn and on display, which I think is fantastic. What better gift for someone you love than a unique, handmade quilt? For weddings, Christmas, baby gift, or any time, a quilt is a treasured present. Quilts & Quilts Country Store is owned and run by three generations of women (a fourth in training) I’ve known for 20 years. Marlys, her daughter Cindy and granddaughter Lacey; and Lacey’s daughter Evelyn
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is just a year old! The quilts you’ll find at Quilts & Quilts Country Store truly are works of art. They buy from only a few select quilters around the country. People come in and say, “It’s like a quilt show!” Quilts & Quilts is a unique store because it carries so many samples. I’m always impressed, and I know that for quilters and other people who sew, it’s Seventh Heaven. Quilts & Quilts carries gift items, accessories, cards, and other fun things as well. If you are creating a quilt or sewing another project, you’ll find what you need … and more … at Quilts & Quilts Country Store.
What’s going on? What’s coming up?!
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ranson always has something “Peter Pan” is marvelous and returns to new: new shows, guest stars that stage for six weeks in November at your favorite theater … and December. Also coming up at The here’s just some of what’s happening! Mansion: Johnny Mathis October 9 and 10 Mickey Gilley will be returning to the Gatlin Brothers select dates Sepstage here in October. He suffered a back injury when he fell in July and has tember and October Asleep at been recuperating in Texas … the Wheel actually, Sept. 25-27 chompBy N i t t y Linda Burlingame ing at the Gritty Dirt bit to get Band Oct. 23 back in T h r e e action from what I hear. This Redneck is Gilley’s 20th year in his Tenors select Branson theater and his show dates in Ocremains one of Branson’s tober most popular! O a k Th e M a n s i o n a n d O a k Ridge Boys Ridg e Boys Theatre always Theatre: have something new happenDalena ing. Tom Mullica’s Tribute to Ditto delights Red Skelton, one of my fa- M i c kke eyy audiences vorites, plays regularly at The G i l l eeyy mornings at Mansion. Cathy Rigby in
the Oaks theater and Country Tonite dazzles evening audiences … here’s what else is happening: Oak Ridge Boys select dates September, October, and November Colin Raye with Country Tonite Sept. 8 - Oct. 18 T.J. Sheppard with Country Tonite Oct. 2024 Debby Boone's "Christmas Memories" with Country Tonite No- D e b b i e vember and December Boone “Country Tonite” made a trip to Iraq to entertain troops; when you see their show, be sure you ask about it: they have unbelievable stories! They’ve joined forces with Operation Shoebox, a non-profit organization, which was founded in 2003 in an effort to send support, snacks and
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much needed personal care items to troops deployed outside of the US. Items can be dropped off at the Oak Ridge Boys Theatre and at The Mansion. Find out how you can help. In September The Osmonds are back at The Os mond Theatr e, across from Titanic Branson. The Magnificent Variety Show (love that show, too) is also at The Osmonds Theatre. Speaking of Titanic Br anso n, it’s a spectacular attraction. You must see it! Oct. 9-11 don’t miss the World-Class ______________ See Events, Page 19
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Acrobats of China will amaze and astound you
’ve read that in China there are 25,000 acrobats and more than 250 acrobatic troupes. But in Branson there is only one—the New Shanghai Circus at the New Shanghai Theatre. These young people amaze audiences with their skills of contortion, flexibility, endurance, balance and magic. This By award-winning troupe is one of Linda Burlingame t h e best in the world, and the theater itself is one of the newest in Branson. The 1000-seat theater is on Hwy. 165 near the intersection by Stone Hill Winery. Flowers, plants and waterfalls decorate the front; the courtyard features a threelegged bronze pot more than six feet tall. From Xi’an, China, the Chinese name is “Ke Ding.” The lobby area inside is roomy and the show is enhanced by the state-of-
the-art lighting, music and sound. From balance to trapeze to group bicycle riding, the Acrobats truly are amazing. I love the show and enjoy watching the faces around me. Gasps, oohs, aahs, smiles of unbelief, and resounding applause and approval for the feats on stage. The costumes and sets are gorgeous and different for every act. Beautiful silks and brilliant colors help make the show a feast for the eyes. The show is well staged and moves smoothly from one astonishing segment to the next. I think the balancing acts the Acrobats do amaze me the most. Whether it’s the stacks-tothe-rooftops of people on chairs, or 10 people on a bicycle … “how’d they do that” doesn’t begin to express my reaction. Practice makes perfect and they’ve been practicing and training since the age of six. They are dedicated to their art and take pride in the show they present. Don’t miss Acrobats of China featuring the New Shanghai Circus!
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A Rocky Mountain High in Branson
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he first night James Garrett was to perform at the Imax Theater, he grouped the other players in the show around him and told them, "We probably are not going to win any By awards playing in a Kurt Moore 200 seat theater, but we are going out there, put on a show and have a lot of fun doing it." He was right on half of that prophecy. They did put on a show that night and had a lot of fun doing it. James Garrett and his group have been at the Imax's Little Opry Theater for going on their third year and each of the first two years that same show has managed to garner the Branson Critic Award for Best Morning Show in Branson. James says he has the littlest band in Branson, playing in the littlest theater in Branson. He is right on both counts. But oh my gosh, what that group can do in that little theater. Folks whatever I am
about to tell you, you will not believe until you go see for yourself. The times I have been there, the theater was nearly standing room only with people traveling literally hundreds of miles just to see his show. James Garrett has one of the finest tribute shows I have had the pleasure of seeing in Branson. He pays tribute to John Henry Deutschendorf— who you say? John Denver, that’s who. The same man who wrote 146 songs with one of them, “Rocky Mountain High,” being enacted as the Colorado State Song.
James spent a lot of time in past years with John Denver and is the ultimate knowledge base for James Garrett anything to do with him. He also is very careful not to detract from Denver’s songs and does them as the master himself would have done. I have to say, he does a marvelous job. I have seen a lot of tribute shows and
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by the time I saw his show the second time realized why it is so well received by audiences. Even though there is money involved with any show in Branson, including this one, they are not in it for the money. When putting on this show they are at play. They are having fun and it shows. It is catchy and the audience dives right in on the fun. Even though James Garrett takes Denver’s tribute to heart, as well he should, he has mastered the art of having fun while doing something serious. James tells stories of John Denver lore that are both knowledgeable and interesting. John Denver had a lot of personal charisma and so does James ______________ See Garrett, Page 21
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Jim Stafford celebrates 20th anniversary
he Jim Stafford Show is always fun and fresh, as often as I’ve seen it these 20 years. When Jim opens the show and visits with the audience, it’s hilarious, different every night. Jim has added new numbers this year. G.G. on the harp and Shea on piano do “ChariBy ots of Fire” and Linda Burlingame it’s amazing; the audience loves it. Shea, 16, and G.G., 12, are Jim and Ann’s children and have been on stage since they were babies. They love being in the show; it’s second nature to them. They’re incredibly talented; Jim says they work hard on stage, always challenging their abilities. Lauren Heavner is the new female
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vocalist, a delightful young lady with a fantastic voice. She has a charming, comfortable stage presence and is good with the audience. Lauren does the “Auctioneer
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Song” (fabulous) and later, dressed in a pretty fringed dress that shimmies and sways with her, an energetic version of “L Is for the Way You Look at Me” — with the help of a lucky gentleman in the audience. Lauren is from Fayetteville, Ark., and told me she first performed with American Kids there. She was “scared” when she started singing a Shania Twain tune but by the end of the song, “I was hooked!” Lauren sent the Staffords a CD. Ann Stafford told me, “Her voice … just hits you in the heart.” Jim and Ann met with her and three days later she was ______________ See Stafford, Page 17
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Fabulous dining, lodging … and beautiful history
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he beautiful Keeter Center is a wonderful lodge, dining room and meeting center. Dobyns Dining Hall is perfect, whether breakfast for two or dinner for 60. Ozarks food at its finest. Staying at the Keeter Center is a treat in rustic elegance. Each suite is uniquely furnished; you’ll appreciate local materials, By handmade furniture, beautiful Linda Burlingame décor and fireplaces, spacious rooms. There’s no mint on the pillow at night: guests are treated to a small bottle of milk from the C of O dairy and homemade cookies! Much of the Keeter Center construction was done by 250 College of the Ozarks (C of O) students; 200 work there now. C of O students pay no tuition, so they work at one of more than 80 campus work areas to help defray their education costs. I recommend the self-guided tour (There’s no charge for a motor coach tour either) to learn more about the his-
tory of College of the Ozarks and see the amazing campus. The design and construction of the Keeter Center is a captivating story. The Williams Memorial Chapel with its bell tower and 3,000 bells is magnificent. Edwards Mill is just as fascinating — the water flowing through the wheel comes from Lake Honor, which gets water from Lake Taneycomo. (Some of that water is used for air conditioning. “Green” idea.) Downstairs you can view the workings of the Mill. On the main floor you can buy flour, corn meal, baskets, the Edwards Mill Cookbook, placemats — which are made by students upstairs on the looms! Outside the Mill are some old millstones; two are French, 48-inch stones from the Pyrenees
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Mountains, brought to America, here from St. Louis by ox-drawn wagons. Remarkable! Nearby are the greenhouses. The orchids are especially gorgeous. Those are C of O orchids in the ladies room at Shoji’s. On down the road is the dairy, where they milk 60 Holsteins. It’s all very interesting and incredible. The Fruitcake and Jelly Kitchen is great; you’ll toss out all those fruitcake jokes after sampling theirs. They bake 40,000 cakes from January to October, then start shipping, along with 30,000 jars of jelly, 22 varieties — can you even name 22?! The Keeter Center also houses the Program of Hotel/Restaurant Management. Another important program there is the Community Convocation ______________ See College, Page 21
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009 in the show. (On the CD, Lauren sang “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” written by Bobby Braddock, a friend of Jim’s.) I asked how she likes being in the show; she smiled and said, “I love it, it’s
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Stafford ... Continued from Page 14
awesome!” She especially likes that they are always working on something new. She sings “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” (Lonesome Whippoorwill), with Jim on guitar, that’s beautiful. Shea and G.G. have recently added new solo numbers. G.G. does a wonderful jazzy version of “Route 76” on the piano. Dad has new lyrics, about “Andy … Gilley or Moe Bandy!” It’s a great arrangement and she really “nails it!” Shea’s rollicking adaptation of “This Little Light of Mine” is not like you’ve ever heard it. It’s really a demanding piece and takes Shea to the top of his game on the piano. Russian dancers Genya and Sasha are fantastic! With Jim on guitar, their flamenco number, the gypsy number…everything they do is beautiful and amazes the audience. I talked with Jim recently after a show and he played a new guitar piece he’s working on. It’s a familiar George M. Cohen tune, but with new “licks,”
new chords, a whole new sound. Then he took it apart for me. “This is a Merle Travis chord,” he strums, “this one I wrote.” It’s amazing to watch him up close, his fingers reaching for the intricate chords and changes It wouldn’t be the Jim Stafford Show without his chart topping “Spiders and Snakes.” I love the “Cow Patti” segment — and California thinks they have happy cows. Near the end of the show G.G. does a fun dance number with Genya and Sasha. Shea gets the audience to “Party” and it’s an anniversary celebration you don’t want to miss. If you’re back for the holidays, there’s an all-new Christmas show and a New Year’s Eve dance party. Stay tuned for more fun at the Jim Stafford Show.
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LITTLE PETE’S PAGE 18
THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS GAZETTE
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
Can you help the scarecrow to visit his friend?
B H B B M L T T A U R O J K B G K G V W
Can you help the scarecrow find his friend?
www.ActivityVillage.co.uk
K P T O D C N H X G T A X P R E D S F L
I E E C R L Z S K C G X N A U T U M D M
D E C O R A T I O N S G P X Z F V O X A
R D P S A A N B N B P E H T M Q L G A V
S V U T A X F G V D F A Y N L W F O P F
A Q M U V M F T E E I A M H Z T X U Z F
J K P M V U O Y S S P A L L T L M R S F
J S K E N L L T L C T B N L I P F D H H
H L I S E O I E M C O H H C K C A S B M
D A N D T V A T K S I R W I O O Z P R D
W W P X A V G X V X M E N A W R K W K J
D Z A L E R E A Y V Y S T S Z N N B G V
W V T S C A R E C R O W S E T M U M V A
X B C A R A M E L A P P L E S A R F R R
O E H A Y R I D E S I B X K T Z L Q K C
E M D E S E P G S H A B W M D E D K B J
T K Y M C G L W G G Y M E E E V F T S T
A N T Y V Q A L G B I Z C Z W N I H Q F
D L T C B N Z F O O T B A L L C Y B X X
E U Q I D L O I N W O W M C X X Q A Y F
E G X F O D W K C W S U P W N P F V C B
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www.ActivityVillage.co.uk
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DID YOU K N O W. . . ?
• A cat has 32 muscles in each ear. • A cockroach can live several weeks with its head cut off. • A dime has 118 ridges around the edge. • A giraffe can go without water longer than a camel can. • A goldfish has a memory span of three seconds. • A jellyfish is 95 percent water. • A mole can dig a tunnel 300 feet long in just one night. • A skunk can spray its stinky scent more than 10 feet. • A sneeze travels out your mouth at over 100 m.p.h. • Almonds are a member of the peach family. • An average person laughs about 15 times a day.
F D H M O J S B S R V V Z X G X P X P R
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009 Wood Carver’s Competition there. The Titanic was a “floating tribute to the wood carver’s art.” Just down the street at M oon River Theatre Bill Medley with Paul Revere & the Raiders play through Oct. 24. (Love their show) Sept. 1-30 don’t miss The Andy Williams All-Star Variety Show. You’ll love it! Andy’s Christmas Show is Nov. 2 – Dec. 7. Make your reservations early for this remarkable show. You’ll love Moon River Grill as well. Pam Tillis appears at RFDT V The The at re Oct. 2 and 3. Pa m The theater has other guest T i l l i s stars coming in too. Neal McCoy has been at Yakov ’s theater this year and still has dates there Sept. 29 – Nov. 1. Yakov’s Moscow Circus runs
THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS GAZETTE
Events ... Continued from Page 9 through Sept. 7 and is back next year. Don’t miss Yakov’s amazing show; you’ll love his Christmas show too, it’s one of my favorites. Dino’s Christmas Spectacular takes the stage at Yakov’s Nov. 2 – Dec. 12. Spectacular indeed. Mel Tillis & Family Christmas Show is at Tri-Lakes Center Nov. 328. Tell Mel and the kids I sent you. Lee Greenwood and the Bellamy Brothers are doing a show at the Welk Res or t Theatre Sept. 14-Oct. 24. The Lennon Sisters join Tony Orlando there in November and December. Don’t miss Christmas with them. D ixi e Stamp ede always has a beautiful Christmas show that even includes a live nativity. New this year is the musical fantasy “Toys Come to Life” … and if you haven’t seen
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their new regular season show, be sure to catch it. Skeeter’s Big Event is hilarious. (And … I just discovered that the delicious soup served at Dixie Stampede is available online! I knew you’d want to know!) Many of your favorite shows are planning New Year’s Eve celebrations. The Jin Stafford Show is planning a party with Lodge of the Ozarks, right across the street. Besides Jim’s 9 pm show, your evening can include L e e G r e e n wo o d dinner at the Lodge and dancing to the Bobby Layne Big Band Orchestra! Enjoy!
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THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS GAZETTE
Show and Attraction Guide
#1 Hits of the 60’s - Caravelle Theatre ...................... 339-1960
‘50s At the Hop - Branson Meadows.......................... 335-5300
‘57 Heaven Museum - Dick Clark’s AB Theatre......... 332-1960
Acrobats of China ..................................................... 336-8888
Allen Edwards - Golden Corral ................................. 336-6297
Amazing Pets - Grand Country Music Hall ............... 335-2484
American Bandstand Theatre ................................... 332-1960
American Presidential Museum ................................ 334-8683
Andy Williams - Moon River Theatre ........................ 334-4500
Asleep at the Wheel - The Mansion .......................... 239-1333
Area ‘57 - Dick Clark’s AB Theatre ........................... 332-1960
Baldknobbers Jamboree ........................................... 334-4528
Bambi: Princess of Magic - Music City Centre .......... 339-7469
Bob Anderson Dinner Show - Dick Clark’s AB .......... 332-1960
Bob Nelson Show - Clay Cooper Theatre ................. 337-7123
Branson Brothers - God & Country Theatre .............. 334-6806
Branson Country USA - Grand Country Music .......... 335-2484
Branson Diva’s - IMAX ....................................... 800-419-4832
Branson Entertainment Hall of Fame ........................ 336-3263
Branson Family Fun Factory ..................................... 332-2110 Branson Scenic Railway ........................................... 334-6110
Branson Variety Theatre ........................................... 334-2500
Brett Family Singers - Dick Clark’s AB Theatre ......... 336-4222
Broadway! Star Spangled Celebration ...................... 334-2500
Goldwing Express ..................................................... 334-6806
Grand Country Music Hall ......................................... 335-2484
Grand Ladies - God & Country Theatre .................... 334-6806
The Great Passion Play - Eureka Springs ......... 479-253-8559
Hamner Barber Variety Show ................................... 334-4363
Hank & Patsy...Together Again - Owen’s Theatre ..... 336-2112
Happy Trails Theatre ................................................. 339-1900
Comedy Jamboree - Grand Country Music Hall ....... 335-2484
Country Tonight - The Mansion ................................. 239-1333
Dalena Ditto Country Variety Show ........................... 239-1333
Dino’s Christmas Extravaganza - Yakov .....................336-3838
Dixie Stampede ......................................................... 336-3000
Doug Gabriel - Jim Stafford Theatre ......................... 335-8080
The Rankin Brothers ................................................. 337-9333
Red, Hot, & Blue - New Americana Theatre ............. 339-4663
Red Head Express - Circle B Chuckwagon ....... 800-678-6179
Red Skelton Tribute - The Mansion .......................... 239-1333
Ride the Ducks .......................................................... 334-3825
IMAX Entertainment Complex ................................... 335-4832
Ripley’s Believe It or Not ........................................... 337-5300
Hollywood Wax Museum ......................................... 33-STARS
Island Fire - Dutton Theatre ...................................... 332-2772
Inspiration Tower - Shepherd of the Hills .................. 334-4191
Jim Owen Show - Clay Cooper Theatre ................... 337-7123
Jim Stafford Theatre .................................................. 335-8080
Jimmy Osmond - The Osmonds Theatre .................. 336-6100
Joey Riley Show - Mickey Gilley’s ............................ 334-3210
Kirby VanBurch ......................................................... 337-7140
Ricky Boen & Texas Mud - Hamner Barber Theatre . 334-4363
Righteous Brothers Bill Medley w/Paul Revere ........ 334-4500
Roy Rogers & Dale Evans Museum .......................... 339-1900
The Shepherd of the Hills .......................................... 334-4191
The Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama ........ 800-653-6288
Shoji Tabuchi Theatre ............................................... 334-7469
Showboat Branson Belle ........................................... 336-7171
Sight & Sound Theatre ...................................... 800-377-1277
Ladies of Motown - Owen’s Theatre .......................... 336-2112
Silver Dollar City ........................................................ 338-2611
Little Opry Theatre .................................................... 336-5348
Solid Gold Motown .................................................... 336-1141
Legends in Concert - Dick Clark’s AB Theatre .......... 332-1960
Liverpool Legends - Starlite Theatre ......................... 337-9333
The Lowe Family of Utah - Welk Theatre .................. 337-7469
Magnificent Variety Show - The Osmonds Theatre ....336-6100
Mickey Gilley ............................................................. 334-3210
Clay Cooper .............................................................. 337-7123
Presleys’ Country Jubilee .......................................... 334-4874
The Hughes American Family Theatre ..................... 336-3688
The Butterfly Palace & Rainforest ..............................332-2231
Club ‘57 - Dick Clark’s AB Theatre ............................ 336-1960
Pierce Arrow Theatre ................................................ 336-8742
RFD-TV The Theatre ................................................ 332-2344
Mel Tillis & Family Christmas Show - Tri-Lakes Ctr ....335-5715
Circle B Chuckwagon Show ...................................... 336-1828
Peter Pan - The Mansion .......................................... 239-1333
The Haygoods - New Americana Theatre...................339-4663
Buck Trent Breakfast Show - Grand Music Hall ........ 335-2484
Buddy & Beyond - Music City Centre ........................ 339-7469
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
The Mansion Entertainment and Media Center ........ 239-1333
Moe Bandy - Jim Stafford Theatre ............................ 335-8080
Moscow Circus - Yakov ............................................. 336-3838
Motown Ladies - Owen’s Theatre .............................. 336-2112
SIX - Hughes American Family Theatre .................... 336-3688
Sons of the Pioneers Chuckwagon Show ................. 334-4191
Spirit of the Dance - Branson Variety Theatre ........... 334-2500
Tall Timber Lumberjack Show ................................... 338-2957
TITANIC Museum ..................................................... 334-9500
Tony Orlando & the Lennon Sisters - Welk Theatre .. 336-3575
Tony Roi’s Elvis Experience ...................................... 339-4663
Tri-Lakes Center ....................................................... 335-5715
Twelve Irish Tenors - Branson Variety Theatre ......... 334-2500
Veterans Memorial Museum ..................................... 336-2300
Music City Centre ...................................................... 339-7469
Wedding Italiano ....................................................... 243-1500
New’s Country - IMAX ............................................... 335-4832
White Water .............................................................. 334-7487
Oak Ridge Boys ........................................................ 239-1333
World’s Largest Antique Toy Museum ....................... 332-1499
Neal McCoy - Yakov Smirnoff Theatre ...................... 336-3838
Noah - The Musical - Sight & Sound Theatre .... 800-377-1277
The Osmonds Theatre .............................................. 336-6100
Welk Resort & Theatre ....................................... 800-505-9355
The World Famous Platters ...................................... 337-9333
Yakov Smirnoff .......................................................... 336-3838
Visit www.bransonhotline.com!
The Dutton Family Theatre ....................................... 332-2772
Elvis & the Superstars - Owens Theatre ................... 336-2112
Ozark Mountain Jubilee - 76 Music Hall ................... 335-2484
Penny Gilley - RFD-TV Theatre ................................ 332-2282
Tickets! Contest! Up to Date Information!
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS GAZETTE
Garrett ... Continued from Page 11
Garrett. Garrett is the right man for the job. James Garrett does John Denver just as John Denver would do John Denver. If you can understand that one statement, you understand the show. The people he has on stage with him are multi-talented individuals who are certainly leaders in their respective musical fields. Randy Plummer, who has been performing in Branson almost from the beginning of Branson plays slap bass and sings gospel. Jim Glasby an award-winning National Dobro Champion and Texas champion flattop player adds a lot of humor and great music to the show.
Rick Quincey plays anything with strings including a hammer dulcimer. Rick adds a lot of personality
and good solid music to the mix. Once in a while, Paul Bluto, owner of the Imax Complex, sings a song or recites a poem thereby adding a special touch of humanism. I commented to Roy Clark one
day that I thought the people he had in his show were just as good as he was. Roy said, “That’s not true at all. They are all better than I am, but my, my, don’t they make me look good.” James Garrett is smart enough to realize what Roy knew. If you surround yourself with the finest musicians you can possibly find, they are not only going to make you look pretty darned good, but you will wind up with a winner of a show. Well, he does and he did…… He also, like Roy, does not take himself seriously. He is pretty much what-you-see-iswhat-you-get. He is comfortable with himself; therefore the audience is comfortable with him. That is a good thing. I am sure John Denver is looking down on the Little Opry Theater with that wide grin of his, nodding his head and saying job well done my friend.
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Edward’s Mill
College ... Continued from Page 11
Series. Well-known individuals such as Lady Margaret Thatcher, Colin Powell, President Gerald Ford, and Tom Brokaw have spoken there. Plan time at the Keeter Center and College of the Ozarks. Check out their Web site: KeeterCenter.edu. You’ll enjoy!
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Church Directory THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS GAZETTE
Assembly of God First Assembly of God 600 West Main, Branson 417-334-3803
Christian Branson Christian Church 213 S. Commercial, Branson 417-334-3453
Episcopal Shepherd of the Hills Episcopal 107 Walnut, Branson 417-334-3968
Lutheran Faith Lutheran Parnell & Malone St., Branson 417-334-2469
Baptist First Baptist Church 400 South Sunshine, Branson 417-334-7437
Church of Christ Church of Christ Hwy. 165 (near Welk), Branson 417-336-3120
Foursquare Branson Foursquare Church 2287 Fall Creek Rd., Branson 417-339-5911
Methodist United Methodist 1208 W. Hwy. 76, Branson 417-334-3423
Church of God Church of the Apostolic Faith 100 East Main, Branson
Full Gospel River of Life, Church Alive! 1307 Bird Rd., Branson 417-334-8287
Non-Denominational Salvation Army Church 1819 W. Hwy. 76, Branson 417-339-4434
Jehovah’s Witnesses Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses Hwy. 65-70, Branson 417-334-5507
Non-Denominational Unity of the Hills 4868 Hwy. 248, Branson 417-334-6224
Calvary Baptist Church 625 Truman Dr., Branson 417-336-3475
Bible Church Fellowship at Cross Creek T Hwy. - T10 417-335-8008 Catholic Our Lady of the Lake Vaughn Dr., Branson 417-334-3350
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Church Road, Branson
Cowboy Chapel Shepherd of the Hills Expwy. 417-334-4191
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
Pentecostal Old Branson Pentecostal 600 West Main, Branson 417-334-3803 Presbyterian FIrst Presbyterian 420 West Main, Branson 417-334-3468
All visitors welcome, please call for worship times and directions.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS GAZETTE
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THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS GAZETTE
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009