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Word for Life --------------------------------------------------- By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures.
--------------------------------------------------- Proverbs 24:3-4
Tri-Lakes area news airs Monday-Friday at 7AM, 12 Noon, 2PM, 5PM and 9PM.
Press releases can be emailed to news@klfcradio.com or faxed to 417-335-2437.
May 17, 2013
3 Special Recognitions Special recognitions took place during this week’s meeting of Branson’s Aldermen. The city of Branson has hired 9 veterans since Missouri’s Show-Me Heroes program was launched in 2010. In recognition of that, Branson has received the Governor’s Show-Me Heroes Flag of Freedom Award. The award recognizes employers who have hired Missouri veterans. Branson Police chief Kent Crutcher presented a certificate of appreciation to Sterling Watson of Chopper Charter. He helped with an airborne pursuit of a murder suspect who was captured in Branson last March. And Branson Aldermen recognized Errol Cordell of the Utilities Department as the May Employee of the Month. He was responsible for installing new lighting in the shape of the Branson logo on 5 of the city’s water towers.
CAM Serves More Families Christian Action Ministry served 1,302 families in April. This was 48% higher than the same period last year when CAM served 880 families. Board Chairman Jack Burke pointed to some of the reasons even working families are experiencing a need for CAM services and groceries. The recent large spike in gasoline prices has placed additional stress on the budgets of many families. Plus, according to Burke, many companies are moving employees to part-time status in order to avoid substantial expenses related to the Affordable Healthcare Act, which will be implemented in 2014. So far this year, CAM has distributed enough food for over 158,000 meals.
Awards given to CofO Professors College of the Ozarks Associate Professor of Music Lynda Jesse has received ‘The Mildred Letton Wittick Professional Achievement Award’. The award honors faculty members for outstanding professional accomplishments which may include research, publications, performance, creative productions and various kinds of service. Jesse came to CofO in 1975 and has assisted in the growth of the college’s music department. She has directed the chorale for nearly 30 years. Marcia Mahlman, CofO’s Associate Professor of Education, has received ‘The Eugene Charles Wittick Teaching Excellence Award’. The award honors professors who have demonstrated outstanding teaching ability and who have had a significant impact on the lives and careers of students. She has taught full-time at the college since 2005.
Food Waste Recycling Program at Reeds Spring School Reeds Spring Schools, in partnership with EarthWise Recycling Center, has received a grant of nearly $9700. The grant will enable the district to implement a food waste recycling program using an existing in-vessel composter on the school’s campus. In addition to saving the district money on waste food disposal, the program will provide educational opportunities for students in areas of biology, chemistry, geology, environmental services and art and graphic design.
Click It or Ticket Campaign Several area police departments are planning to participate in a statewide “Click it or Ticket” law enforcement campaign. The mobilization between May 20th and June 2nd is planned to crack down on Missouri’s seat belt violations. Seven out of ten people killed in Missouri traffic accidents are not buckled. Missouri’s seat belt usage is 79%, compared to the national average of 85%. Teens and pickup drivers are among those least likely to buckle-up.
Healthcare Career Scholarships Available Skaggs Foundation is offering two scholarships for students seeking healthcare careers. Applications for both the TEPCOR and Cox Medical Center Branson scholarships are due June 1st. Scholarships are available for students enrolled in approved nursing or allied health science programs at certain area colleges and universities. For more details or to print an application, visit skaggsfoundation.org.
May 16, 2013
Jailers Arrested for Sex with Inmates Two employees of the Taney County Jail were arrested for allegedly having sex with prisoners. Charged were two jailers, Corey Ridings and Chadwick Brewer. 21 year old Ridings was charged with four counts and 22 year old Brewer was charged with a single count of sexual contact with a prisoner. They posted bond after their arrest and were released.
Both of the jailers were terminated from their jobs after their arrest.
Deputies Looking for Kidnapper Law enforcement officials in northern Arkansas are searching for 25 year old Joe Gutierrez. He is charged with kidnapping and attempted murder for an attack on an ex-girlfriend at a convenience store in Alpena Arkansas early Wednesday. The victim had locked herself in a bathroom of the store. Gutierrez allegedly broke through the door and dragged the woman to his car. She escaped and ran back into the store. Gutierrez fired shots through the store window then drove away. He is described as Hispanic, 6 feet tall, 250 pounds and driving a black 2009 Scion with Arkansas license 926 SOP.
New Utility Bill Payment Scam Recent reports from the Better Business Bureau warn residents to be on alert for a new utility bill payment scam. The process involves a phone call from someone claiming to be a utility employee, asking for payment of a past due bill. The caller asks the customer to purchase a prepaid debit card to avoid service disconnection and then to call back with the card number. The perpetrator then drains the value from the card.
Demolition to Start on Branson Inn Demolition of the five buildings of the Branson Inn will start soon with the removal of asbestos found throughout the buildings. Workers will be outfitted with full body suits and respirators to protect their health. Due to stringent EPA standards relating to buildings containing asbestos, demolition will not be completed until this fall. The hotel, near the intersection of Highways 65 and 248, is being removed to make room for a two story, 62,000 square foot Mercy Clinic.
Action by Branson Aldermen Branson Aldermen have approved the first reading of a bill approving the restriction of no-parking along the 500 block of College Street. That portion of the street is behind the Branson Financial Center, which requested the restriction. The Board also approved an intergovernmental agreement with the Branson Housing Authority. The agreement transfers funding for some capital projects that were requested then budgeted in the city’s 2013 budget. Aldermen also approved a contract with Radiophone Engineering to provide radio equipment for the police, fire and public works departments.
College of Ozarks Students and Veterans Leave for Education Travel 16 College of the Ozarks students and 7 WWII veterans leave Friday for an 11 day trip to England. They will visit Parham Airfield, Cambridge American Cemetery where 3,812 Americans are buried, a tour of London, and visits to Churchill Museum and the famous Cabinet War Rooms. In Liverpool, the group will participate in commemoration activities for the Battle of the Atlantic’s 70th Anniversary. The trip is part of the College of the Ozarks Patriotic Education Travel Program where students travel with veterans to their fields of battle. Students document the veteran’s stories through photos, voice recorders, personal journals and a group blog.
May 15, 2013
Ideas, Website Unveiled for Highway 76 Revitalization Project The kick-off for the Highway 76 revitalization project was held Tuesday afternoon at the Clay Cooper Theatre in Branson. A team of engineers, architects and redevelopment specialists, known as the Spirit of 76 Team, described and showed renderings of a corridor that will have attractive promenades, lighting, streetscaping, landscaping, gathering points, crossings and trolley stops. The team unveiled their website BransonSpiritOf76.com and an interactive web-based tool known as MindMixer which enables anyone to provide input to the design team on all or various elements of the revitalization plan.
Slavin to Search for Branson's Next City Administrator At the Branson City Council meeting Tuesday evening, Aldermen approved the first reading of a contract with Slavin Management Consultants pertaining to the search for a new City Administrator. Current City Administrator Dean Kruithof announced his resignation at the end of April due to his wife accepting a new position in northwest Arkansas. Slavin Management Consultants is a national firm that recruits executives for public agencies and is the agency that recruited Kruithof back in 2008. Slavin’s bid proposal for the search is just over $22,000. The agency expects the search to take between 60 and 90 days to complete.
Branson Airport's Air Traffic Tower Temporarily Funded Branson Airport’s air traffic control tower that was slated to close due to federal budget cuts has been temporarily funded until the fiscal year ends in September. Western Missouri Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler said the funding is coming from grants that had not yet been allocated for improvements at airports. Lawmakers are now trying to find a way to keep the air traffic control towers permanently funded.
Two Webb City Women Injured in Two Vehicle Collision Near Silver Dollar City Two women from Webb City were injured in a two vehicle collision at 1:00 Tuesday afternoon at the intersection of Highway 76 and Indian Point Road near Silver Dollar City. A car driven by 21 year old Ashlyn Via failed to yield and turned left into the path of an oncoming SUV driven by 61 year old Richard Gibbs of Kimberling City. Via and 22 year old passenger Hailey Pugh were taken to Mercy Springfield for treatment of minor to moderate injuries.
Branson Woman Injured in One Car Crash in Highlandville A Branson woman was injured in a one car crash shortly before 8:30 Tuesday evening on Sawmill Road in Highlandville. A car driven by 20 year old Wesley Marshall of Branson ran off the left side of the roadway, was overcorrected and overturned. 22 year old passenger Patience Tuttle suffered moderate injuries and was transported to Cox Springfield for treatment.
Petfinder Conducts Animal Shelter Workshop in Branson Petfinder.com, an online database for adoptable pets, recently conducted a one-day workshop in Branson. Darcy Potter and Ashlee Sanchez represented the Taney County Animal Control Shelter at the training sponsored by PETCO and hosted by the Shepherd of the Hills Humane Society. The workshop provided information to improve adoption rates for shelter animals including on-line marketing, networking with other adoption programs and training dogs for adoptability. Petfinder.com is the largest online, searchable database of animals that need permanent homes, including those available for adoption at the Taney County Animal Control Shelter, located on Critter Trail in Hollister.
May 14, 2013
Walking Tour Scheduled for Lake Taneycomo Acres Branson city officials are preparing for the next in a series of neighborhood projects, this time with the Lake Taneycomo Acres and surrounding residential area. The Lake Taneycomo Acres area is bounded by Fall Creek Road on the west, Lake Taneycomo to the East, The Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area to the North, and the City’s Cooper Creek Treatment Plant to the South. Residents are invited to meet with city officials for a walking tour of the area this Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at the intersection of Caudill Way and River Drive, weather permitting. From there, the group will walk the neighborhood to get an overall impression of the area, and hear from neighbors what their concerns and issues are that the City can assist with.
Shell Knob Man Injured in Three Vehicle Accident A man from Shell Knob was injured in a three vehicle accident just before 3:00 Monday afternoon on Highway 59, six miles south of Carthage. A car driven by 44 year old Keith Coggin of Neosho crossed the center line and struck an SUV driven by 70 year old Raymond Bousman of Shell Knob and a pickup driven by 49 year old Max Forste of Neosho. Bousman and Coggin were transported to area hospitals for treatment of moderate injuries.
Pierce City Man Injured in Motorcycle Accident A man from Pierce City was injured in a motorcycle accident at about 5:00 Monday evening on Highway 173, three miles north of Cape Fair. The Highway Patrol reported that a motorcycle operated by 72 year old Gerald Crawford ran off the left side of the roadway into a ditch. Crawford suffered moderate injuries and was airlifted to Cox Springfield for treatment.
School of the Ozarks to Hold Historic First Commencement The new School of the Ozarks will hold its first commencement this Friday at 7 p.m. in Williams Memorial Chapel, at which time six students will receive their high school diplomas. C of O President Jerry Davis will provide the commencement address during the historic ceremony. The inaugural graduation coincides with the 100th anniversary of the first commencement at the original School of the Ozarks in 1913, which had just one graduate, Joseph Gideon. Gideon’s granddaughter, Becky Roberts of Forsyth, will be in attendance at Friday’s commencement.
Photo: Joseph Gideon
The Bretts Unveil New Company Branson entertainers, The Bretts, have announced the official formation and launch of a new company called UPSTREAM, Inc. UPSTREAM is an entertainment and media company designed to produce and promote good, high quality family entertainment and media worldwide. The Bretts plan to release products and services, produce new groups and artists, and mobilize other artists in the coming years with the mission to positively impact the culture and values of society.
TangerKIDS Grants Awarded to Forsyth and Hollister Tanger Outlet Centers announced that the Forsyth and Hollister school districts have been awarded TangerKIDS Grants for the 2013-2014 school years. The TangerKIDS program is designed to assist local schools in the communities where Tanger Outlet Centers are located by providing grants for special projects, needed programs or equipment. Forsyth received $1,000 and Hollister was awarded $3,000. Tanger has earmarked $1 of every coupon book sold to fund the TangerKIDS program.
May 13, 2013
Two From Kirbyville Injured in Hit and Run Accident Two people from Kirbyville were injured in a two vehicle collision at about 2 a.m. this morning on Highway 76, five miles east of Kirbyville. A pickup driven by 27 year old Thomas Weidmaier of Kirbyville failed to yield and struck an oncoming SUV driven by 47 year old Cheree Selsor. Selsor’s vehicle ran off the roadway and overturned in a ditch. Weidmaier reportedly fled the scene of the accident. Selsor and 41 year old passenger James House both suffered moderate injuries and were taken to Cox Branson for treatment.
Galena Woman Injured in Two Vehicle Collision Two people were injured in a two vehicle accident shortly before 3:00 Sunday afternoon on Route TT, two miles west of Reavisville in Barry County. An SUV driven by 16 year old Cody Gaston of Ozark failed to stop at a stop sign and crossed into the path of a car driven by 77 year old Nancy Barnhart of Galena. Both drivers were taken to Springfield hospitals for treatment of moderate injuries.
Other Weekend Accidents in the Tri-Lakes Area In other weekend accidents, 46 year old Anthony Zeigler of Branson was treated for minor injuries after a motorcycle accident on Highway 465 at 5:30 Saturday evening. 30 year old Michelle Lyons of Reeds Spring sustained serious injuries when she was ejected in a one vehicle rollover on JJ Highway at 2:30 early Saturday morning. And 41 year old Betty Russell of Taneyville suffered minor injuries when she was walking along Highway 160 and extended her arm into the path of a passing pickup at about 12:45 a.m. Saturday.
Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley to Make Salvation Army Proclamation In honor of National Salvation Army Week, Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley will make a proclamation at 2:00 this afternoon at the Branson Corps, located at 1114 Stanley Blvd. Corps’ officers Majors Robert & Linda Meyer along with staff members will receive the proclamation. Major Robert Meyer will share how the Branson Corps continues to serve the Branson area and how the Corps has recovered following the 2012 Leap Day Tornado. Refreshments and guided facility tours will be available following the proclamation.
Cox Branson Celebrates National Hospital Week This week is National Hospital Week, which dates back to 1921 when it was suggested by a magazine editor who hoped a community wide celebration would alleviate public fears about hospitals. The celebration, launched in Chicago, succeeded in promoting trust and goodwill among members of the public and eventually spread to facilities across the country. Cox Medical Center Branson will celebrate its employees this week with several activities including, mini-massages, frozen yogurt bar, popcorn and more.
Moonshine Beach Opens this Wednesday Moonshine Beach next to Table Rock Dam opens for the summer this Wednesday with daily hours from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. The beach features a designated swim area, sand volleyball, children's playground, restrooms with showers, handicap accessible boat ramp, picnic tables with grills and a large pavilion. Guests can rent beach umbrellas, floating toys and kayaks and purchase Fat Daddy's barbecue, frozen treats and cold drinks. The Moonshine Beach Day Use Fee is $5 per vehicle for up to 8 people and then a $1 for each additional person.
Branson to Celebrate 53rd Annual Plumb Nellie Days Branson will celebrate its 53rd Annual Plumb Nellie Days Arts, Crafts & Music Festival this Thursday through Saturday in historic downtown Branson. Part of Commercial Street will be closed for the festival between Atlantic and Main streets. The festivals hours are Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Plumb Nellie Days features arts and crafts, food vendors and Branson entertainers. There will also be a Friday night Street Dance beginning at 5:30 p.m. and a tribute to Armed Forces at Noon on Saturday. For more information, visit DowntownBranson.org.
May 10, 2013
Liberty Counsel to Defend New Pro-Life Law in Arkansas Liberty Counsel announced that it will defend a new pro-life law in Arkansas that is being threatened by a lawsuit from the ACLU and the Center for Reproductive Rights. The lawsuit seeks to impose a permanent injunction on the Human Heartbeat Protection Act which goes into effect July 18. The bill bans abortion if a heartbeat is detected in the womb, except in cases of rape, incest, or if a mother’s life is in danger. Mat Staver, Founder and Chairman of Liberty Counsel, said that they will defend this law without reservation for the people of Arkansas, born and pre-born, as promised when the legislation was introduced.
Lakeside Forest Driveway to be Closed Next Week The City of Branson announced that the driveway entrance at the Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area, located on Fall Creek Road, will be closed to traffic starting at 7 a.m. this Monday through 6 p.m. Friday, May 17. The driveway will be closed so that the existing gravel driveway can be removed and a new concrete apron installed at the entrance to the park. The park and trails will remain open, but guests are asked to use alternate parking during this construction. The new driveway entrance is part of the improvements underway at the 140-acre City Park. Other improvements will include a new entrance gate, signage and parking lot.
Myer Hotels has Three Finalists for "Hotel of the Year" The Comfort Inn & Suites, Comfort Inn at Thousand Hills and the Comfort West of Branson have all been selected as finalists for Choice Hotels’ International 2013 “Hotel of the Year” for the Comfort Inn brand. All three hotels were “Hotel of the Year” finalist last year with the Comfort Inn at Thousand Hills winning the award in 2012. Staff members from Myer Hotels will be attending Choice Hotels’ International convention this month where the 2013 “Hotel of the Year” will be awarded.
Jesus Was Homeless Wins $2,500 Donation from Liberty Bank Jesus Was Homeless of Branson placed second in Liberty Bank’s “Fans for Charity” Facebook contest. The contest invited the public to submit stories about their favorite non-profit organizations. Nearly 650 submissions were received. Haven of the Ozarks placed first for a donation of $10,000, Jesus Was Homeless placed 2nd and will receive $2,500, A Sporting Chance placed 3rd for a $1,000 donation, and Alzheimer’s Association of SWMO placed 4th for a $500 donation.
C of O Student Named Honorable Mention for Nursing Student of the Year The Springfield News-Leader media group named College of the Ozarks nursing student Haylee Miller “Honorable Mention for Nursing Student of the Year” at the Southwest Missouri Salute to Nurses Luncheon. Miller attends C of O’s Armstrong McDonald School of Nursing and will graduate May 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This is the fifth year for the Salute to Nurses event and the fifth year that a C of O nursing student has been named a finalist. In 2009 and 2010, a C of O student was named nursing student of the year. Miller received a $500 cash scholarship for placing honorable mention.
Two Branson Seniors Honored at International DECA Conference Two Branson High School seniors were recently honored at the International DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) Conference in Anaheim, California. Over 16,000 students and advisors attended the conference. Branson seniors Jessie Barton and Tanner Westmoreland both received Awards of Excellence at the conference. DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management.
May 9, 2013
Branson Senior Corey Matzat Named United States Presidential Scholar Corey Matzat, a senior at Branson High School, has been named a United States Presidential Scholar. He was selected on the basis of superior academic achievements, leadership qualities, personal character, school recommendations, student essays and involvement in community activities. Only one male and one female student are selected from each state. The Presidential Scholars Commission, appointed by the President, reviewed applications and made the selections. The students will take an expense-paid trip to Washington in mid-June to receive the award. While there, they will meet with government officials and visit museums and monuments.
Connell Insurance Chosen for Small Business Award Connell Insurance, based in Hollister, has received the Springfield Chamber of Commerce 2013 W. Curtis Strube Small Business Award. This is the first time a Branson area business has won this award. Winners are selected by an independent panel of judges based on company history, management philosophy, response to challenges, innovative products or services and community contributions. Connell is an independent insurance agency with 31 employees serving commercial and residential clients in 60 Missouri cities and counties.
Tim Connell
Kimberling City Man Injured in One Vehicle Accident 66 year old William Kirsch of Kimberling City was injured and his pickup was totaled in a one vehicle accident late Wednesday afternoon. His truck crossed the road centerline, then ran off the road where it hit several signs and trees. Kirsch was not using the seatbelt and was ejected from the pickup. He was taken to Mercy Hospital in Springfield for treatment of moderate injuries. The 5 p.m. accident occurred on Joe Bald Road just west of Kimberling City.
Dewey Short Visitor Center Receives LEED Certification The new Dewey Short Visitor Center has received the LEED certification, a first for any building in Taney or Stone counties. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. The designation recognizes excellence in building design, construction, operation and maintenance. Candidates apply for LEED status and receive points for items for which they are in compliance. The Visitor Center received enough points to qualify for Gold Status. Only Platinum is higher. The public is invited to attend the official announcement of the LEED certification to be held in conjunction with the one-year anniversary of the Visitor Center. It will be held Tuesday, May 21 at 10 a.m.
345 Students to Graduate from Branson High School 345 students will graduate from Branson High School during a commencement ceremony this Friday evening. The public is invited to the event which will start at 7:30 p.m. at the high school football stadium. In the event of inclement weather the ceremony will be held in the gymnasium. Senior Awards Night was held this past Tuesday. Academic awards and over $5 million in scholarships were awarded to members of this year’s graduating class.
C of O Now Growing Hydroponic Lettuce for Use at Keeter Center The College of the Ozarks Horticulture Department is now growing hydroponic lettuce for use in The Keeter Center’s Dobyns Dining Room. The lettuce is grown without soil in trays that circulate nutrient-rich water. In this year-round growing method, plants receive 6 ounces of nutrients per minute. The lettuce can be harvested after 28 days. The system was added to the college greenhouse this semester. Dobyns Dining Room will use the lettuce in several dishes, including its house salad and smoked salmon lettuce wrap. C of O students Elisabeth Lipsy and Terri Threewit
May 8, 2013
270 College of the Ozarks Students to Graduate Sunday 270 College of the Ozarks students will graduate this Sunday. The Commencement Address entitled "A Mission Completed" will be given by Mr. Charlie Tsui, known as "Charlie Two-Shoes." At the age of 11 Charlie was befriended by a company of U.S. Marines which had been sent to China shortly after the end of WWII. When the communists took over, the Marines were forced out leaving Charlie behind. After 35 years, he was able to contact some of his Marine Corps friends. They helped bring him to America in 1983. The Commencement will start at 2 p.m. in Keeter Gymnasium. General Admission seating is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Omaha Man Arrested for Sexual Indecency 42 year old Shawn Moore of Omaha, Arkansas was arrested Monday and charged with two counts of sexual indecency. Two young girls had reported inappropriate conduct on the part of the accused. The girls were interviewed by authorities at Grandma’s House, a local Children’s Advocacy Center which specializes in assisting children and their families who have been the victims of crime. Arkansas State Police assisted the Boone County Sheriff’s Department in the investigation. Moore is being held in the Boone County Jail on a $50,000 bond.
Dewey Short Visitor Center to Host Wildflower Walk The Dewey Short Visitor Center, located near Table Rock Dam, will host a Wildflower Walk this Saturday from 9:30 to 11 a.m. This hike is recommended for ages 12 and above and sturdy hiking shoes should be worn. Tours of Table Rock Dam and the power house leave from the Dewey Short Visitor Center every day at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. The Visitor Center will be open everyday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Labor Day, offering videos and displays relating to hydroelectric power and native plant landscaping. The Discovery Shop has educational toys and games, tour guides, maps, books and unique gifts.
Wildcat Jazz Ensemble to Perform at Branson Landing The Blue Springs, Missouri Wildcat Jazz Ensemble will perform at the Branson Landing fountains this Sunday. This award winning jazz band presents 20 to 25 performances each year in Missouri, Kansas and Iowa. The Ensemble performs a variety of musical styles from traditional big band to more recent popular music. The band has established a tradition of performing at Branson Landing each Mother’s Day, as part of "Branson On Stage Live."
C of O School of Nursing to Host Pinning & Blessing Ceremony The College of the Ozarks Armstrong McDonald School of Nursing will host its 4th annual Pinning and Blessing Ceremony this Saturday. During the ceremony, 18 nursing graduates will receive a specially designed pin that reflects the program’s five concepts of Truth, Character, Critical Thinking, the Tenets of Florence Nightingale and Creating a Nourishing Environment. The ceremony will be held at 4 p.m. in Williams Memorial Chapel and it is open to the public.
Ballot Measure Would Add "Right to Raise Children" to Constitution The Missouri House has approved a measure that would ask voters if the right to raise children should be included in the state constitution. The bill, HJR26, is based on principles already assumed to be law. The language of the bill is written to not interfere with protecting children who are being abused or neglected. If passed by both chambers, the proposal would be included on the November ballot. Also, the Missouri General Assembly has given final approval to a bill that protects the rights and beliefs of small business owners. Senate Bill 126 gives pharmacies the freedom to not provide drugs such as the morning-after pill if they so choose. The bill now awaits the governor’s signature.
May 7, 2013
KOLR 10/KOZL TV to Open New Satellite Studio in Branson KOLR 10/KOZL TV will open a new satellite studio to serve the Branson area this spring. The facility is currently under construction at 210 East Main Street in Historic Downtown Branson. The studio is expected to open in early June and will be staffed full-time by reporters, photographers and account executives. The space will provide a backdrop for live origination from Branson and allow for more immediate preparation of television, Web and mobile news content from Taney, Stone and Barry counties In Missouri, and Baxter, Boone and Marion counties in Northwest Arkansas.
Public Invited to Highway 76 Revitalization Kick-Off Event The public is invited to a special kick-off event for the City of Branson’s Highway 76 revitalization project on Tuesday, May 14, at 3 p.m. at the Clay Cooper Theatre. Representatives from the New Spirit of 76 project team will show preliminary concepts for Highway 76 improvements for this multi-year project. In addition, members of the project team will unveil its newly developed website and demonstrate a 24/7 interactive web-based survey tool to gain input from residents, businesses and tourists in Branson.
Branson Man Pleads Guilty to Two DWI Charges Taney County Prosecutor Jeff Merrell announced that 62 year old Robert Woods of Branson has entered guilty pleas in two separate driving while intoxicated cases. Each of Woods’ DWI charges are class B felonies, because the Prosecutor’s Office was able to prove at least four prior DWI convictions in Woods’ past. The class B felony of driving while intoxicated carries a range of punishment of five to fifteen years in the Missouri Department of Corrections. Woods is scheduled to be sentenced on July 25.
Merriam Woods Teen Injured in Two Vehicle Accident A teenager from Merriam Woods was injured in a two car accident shortly after 2:30 Monday afternoon on Buchanan Road north of Branson. The incident occurred when a car driven by 18 year old Tritton Barnes of Branson struck the rear of a car driven by 18 year old Caylee Sargent of Branson. A passenger in Barnes’ car, 18 year old Allan Schellenger, suffered minor injuries and was taken to Cox Branson for treatment.
Arvest Donates Set of Paintings to Historical Society in Forsyth A set of paintings of historical buildings from the area was recently donated to the White River Valley Historical Society by the Forsyth branch of Arvest Bank. The 15 original watercolors by artist Juanita Maxwell include a variety of familiar scenes, including the Taney County Jail, Helphrey School, Williams barn near Cedar Creek, and Peck Miller’s Forsyth Hotel. The paintings are currently on display as part of the Historical Society’s Creative Ozarks exhibit, which runs through June 14.
Pictured from left, Arvest Assistant Branch Manager Sherry Jenkins, Arvest Branch Manager Lori Hall, and White River Valley Historical Society Managing Director Leslie Wyman
Phone Book Recycling Kickoff Event is this Thursday The Eighth Annual Phone Book Recycling Kickoff Event will be held this Thursday from 4-6:30 p.m. at the Branson RecPlex. The local Girl Scouts will be rewarded for each phone book that is brought in for recycling. The event will also include free food, kids’ activities, pet adoptions, prizes and more. Tantone Industries will also be hand to provide free document shredding, as well as cardboard and plastic recycling. Businesses with 50 phone books or more, may contact the Girl Scouts for free pickup at 417-598-7611.
May 6, 2013
Branson Police Captain Scotty Penner Retires Captain Scotty Penner has retired from the City of Branson after more than 29 years of service to the City’s Police Department. His official last day was May 1st and a community reception was held in his honor on April 30th. Penner began his career with the Police Department in 1984 as a dispatcher. As his career progressed he moved up the ranks, being promoted to his final position of Captain of the Detective Division in 2005. Penner plans to continue serving the community as a full-time umpire and referee in the high school and small college levels.
Captain Scotty Penner, on left, is presented his retirement badge by Police Chief Kent Crutcher
Kimberling City Man Sentenced to Fours Years for Three Felonies Taney County Prosecutor Jeff Merrill announced that 35 year old Jeremy Pennington of Kimberling City pleaded guilty and has been sentenced to four years in prison for three felony charges. On July 1, 2011, Pennington exhibited a pocket knife toward a woman in an angry and threatening manner. On July 22, 2011, he stole a credit card from a co-worker in Branson and used it at Wal-Mart. And on July 9, 2012, he stole a truck from a convenience store in Branson.
Shell Knob Man Fatally Injured in Collision with School Bus A man from Shell Knob was fatally injured in a two vehicle collision involving a school bus at about 6:30 last Friday morning on Highway 86, three miles west of Lampe. A pickup driven by 53 year old Larry Verlin crossed the center line and was struck by an oncoming school bus driven by 49 year old Johnny Bilyeu of Oak Grove, Arkansas. Verlin was taken to Cox Hospital in Berryville where he died from his injuries just after 8 a.m. Bilyeu suffered minor injuries but refused treatment. There were no children on the school bus at the time of the accident.
Branson Chamber Celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week The Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce is celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week with a picnic at the Welcome Center tomorrow from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The public is invited to come out to the Welcome Center for lunch and entertainment to celebrate the importance of tourism in Branson. In addition to the picnic, the Welcome Center will host refreshments and various Branson entertainers each day this week through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Bull Shoals Rises to 18th on Bassmaster's List of Top Lakes Bull Shoals Lake has risen from No. 51 last year to No. 18 this year on Bassmaster Magazine’s ranking of America’s Top 100 Lakes for Bass Fishing. The ranking story has been published in the magazine’s June edition which is in the mail to subscribers now. The significant rise in Bull Shoals ranking is being attributed to the increase in size and number of fish due to recent floods. The high water allowed baby bass, known as fry, to have a greater chance for survival because they could hide from predators in brush along the shore lines.
SDC's Bluegrass & BBQ Festival Opens this Thursday Silver Dollar City's annual Bluegrass & BBQ Festival opens this Thursday and runs through May 27. The festival features top bluegrass artists such Rhonda Vincent, Grascals and Blue Highway, as well as two national competitions, the Single Mic Championship on May 18 and the Youth in Bluegrass Band Competition on May 25. For information and performers’ schedules, visit SilverDollarCity.com.
May 3, 2013
Dr. Sue Head Receives “Don Gabriel Kingdom Builder Award” at Ozark Mountain Prayer Breakfast College of the Ozarks Dean of Character Education Dr. Sue Head received the “Don Gabriel Kingdom Builder Award” at the 12th Annual Ozark Mountain Prayer Breakfast held Thursday morning at the Branson Convention Center. The award is given annually to a person who contributes to the quality of the community by demonstrating in word and action a dedicated and dynamic Christian life. Dr. Head is heavily involved in the Loaves and Fishes program, Faith Community Health Center and Ozark Mountain Legacy Builders. She also has served as a moving force behind the S. Truett Cathy Poverty Summit, First! PLACE Character Initiative, and the creation of the School of the Ozarks.
Branson Man Injured by Vehicle Mirror on Hwy 76 in Hollister A Branson man was injured by a passing vehicles mirror as he was walking eastbound on the shoulder of Highway 76 in Hollister at about 1 p.m. Thursday afternoon. Twenty-four year old Justin Barrett was transported to Cox Branson for treatment of minor injuries. The unknown driver of the vehicle did not stop after Barrett was struck.
Cox Branson Implements New Osteoporosis Program Cox Medical Center Branson is one of 88 healthcare institutions nationwide that has implemented the American Orthopedic Association’s Own the Bone® Program. It is aimed to better identify, evaluate and treat patients who suffer from an osteoporosis or low bone density-related fragility fracture and help avoid and prevent re-fractures. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, up to 50% of all women and 25% of men over the age of 50 years will sustain fragility fractures. For more information about the program or to schedule an appointment, call 417-348-8100.
Table Rock Lake Water Clearest in Nearly 30 Years Divers are coming from all over the Midwest to Table Rock Lake as word gets around that the lake water is currently the clearest its been in 25-30 years. Ozarks Water Watch reported that Table Rock’s water clarity is approaching 40 foot in places near the dam. The drought which prevented nutrients from being washed into the lake is one of the factors being attributed to the surprisingly clear water. Although the lake may not stay this clear, the trend over the last 10 years shows the lake is getting clearer due to the combined efforts of many water quality organizations and the limits put on wastewater treatment plants.
May is Motorcycle Awareness Month Motorcyclists and motorists are encouraged to safely “share the road” in observation of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. All motorists are reminded to watch for motorcycles and to be extra alert to help keep motorcyclists safe, while motorcyclists are reminded to make themselves visible to other motorists. There were 276 motorcyclists killed from 2010-2012.
Cops for Kids Fishing Tournament is this Tuesday The 9th annual Cops for Kids Fishing Tournament will be held this Tuesday on Table Rock Lake. Funds raised go to non-profit organizations dedicated to assisting children. The tournament includes several prizes, including the grand prize, a 2013 Nitro Z6 boat. The tournament site will be at the State Park Marina with take-offs starting at 6:30 a.m. and weigh-ins beginning at 3 p.m. For more information, call 417-336-6789 or visit CopsForKidsTournament.com.
May 2, 2013
200 Roller Coaster Enthusiasts to Ride Outlaw Run 200 Roller Coaster enthusiasts are traveling to Silver Dollar City this Saturday for a special ride time on the new Outlaw Run coaster. Members of American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) are coming from 28 states and 3 countries. They will ride the coaster prior to the City’s Saturday opening for the general public. ACE members come for several reasons including building their "coaster count." Some members have ridden over 600 different coasters located around the world. Founded in 1978, the 7,000 member ACE is dedicated to the preservation, promotion and appreciation of roller coasters.
Branson’s Liverpool Legends Perform Shows in Israel Branson’s Liverpool Legends performed two shows in Israel this week. Legends entertainers were honored to be the only Beatles tribute band from the United States to ever perform in the Holy Land. The Beatles were banned from performing in Israel in the 1960’s. The ban was lifted in 2008 when Paul McCartney performed in Tel Aviv. Initially, Liverpool Legends were booked for just one performance. That show sold out quickly and a second performance was added.
Forsyth Woman Injured in One Vehicle Rollover Just minor injuries for a Forsyth woman in a one vehicle rollover accident late Wednesday afternoon. 47 year old Tina Haskett was driving a 2013 Dodge pickup which hit a guardrail, then hit the median divider, then ran off the road where it overturned. The 5:35 p.m. accident occurred on Highway 65, three miles north of Branson. Haskett was taken to CoxHealth Branson for treatment. She was using the vehicle seatbelt.
The Great Passion Play Opens Tomorrow The Great Passion Play, located in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, begins their 2013 season Friday. Over 125 actors and dozens of live animals come together on a three-level, 550 foot-wide stage to present what has been called America’s number one attended outdoor drama. The Passion Play ran into financial difficulties last year and the show was facing a permanent closing. The head of a Christian radio network based in Oklahoma raised the money to avoid foreclosure. Many actors and crew are volunteering their time this year in an effort to help return the Play to a solid financial footing.
Legislation Would Further Restrict Unemployment Benefits The Missouri House has passed legislation that would redefine "misconduct" for which an employee may be disqualified from receiving unemployment benefits. Senate Bill 28 was passed on a 98-57 vote by representatives, after listening to cases where employees were granted benefits after being fired for stealing from employers or taking illegal drugs at work. Proponents said the bill protects the system for employees who are terminated through no fault of their own. Missouri’s Unemployment Trust Fund is over $500 million in the red. The Missouri Chamber of Commerce said that Unemployment Insurance abuses contribute to that deficit.
Missouri Named "Best Trails State" in America Missouri has been named the "Best Trails State" by American Trails, a national, not-for-profit organization. The award is presented every two years to the state that has made major efforts to improve and promote their trails system. Missouri State Parks offer nearly 1,000 miles of managed trails and over 500 miles of National Recreation Trails designated by the U.S. Department of the Interior. Over 18 million guests visited Missouri’s State Parks in 2012, the fourth consecutive increase, reversing a 10 year decline in park attendance.
May 1, 2013
Branson to Hold Public Meeting on Utility Connection Charges The City of Branson Utilities Department will hold an informational meeting regarding potential changes to sewer connection charges. The meeting will pertain primarily to new customers but all residents may attend. A press release stated that the current Sewer Capacity Fee is complicated and has not been reviewed or adjusted since its inception in the early 1990’s. The City is considering changes to the sewer connection charge to make the process less complicated by basing the fee on the size of the customer’s water meter. The May 6th meeting will be held at 6 p.m. at Branson City Hall.
PSC Approves Transfer of Water Company Assets The Moore Bend Water Company provides water service to about 90 customers near Kissee Mills. The Missouri Public Service Commission has approved an application to transfer assets from the water company to Moore Bend Water Utility, LLC. The utility is owned by Ozark International, Inc., a Missouri corporation. The Commission has determined that the Utility has adequate technical, managerial and financial capacity to operate the water system.
Branson Aldermen Approve Various Resolutions and Bills Branson Aldermen approved a resolution to renew the agreement with Empire Electric to provide for the operation of street lights for the City’s public streets, alleys and parks. The agreement must be renewed every two years. The Board also approved the first reading of bills relating to zoning designations for a one-family dwelling district on Blue Meadows Road and the Steak and Shake restaurant and adjacent vacant parcel on Highway 376. The lots were annexed previously but had not received a zoning designation. Aldermen also approved several bills to annex various properties in the Pointe Royale area and on Fall Creek Drive.
CoxHealth Branson to Hold Annual Safe Summer Injury Expo Common injuries for children during the summer months include water-related, bicycle, other wheeled sports and pedestrian injuries. In an effort to draw attention to summer injuries and how to prevent them, CoxHealth Branson will hold its annual Safe Summer Injury Expo this Saturday. The free event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Dewey Short Visitor Center near Table Rock Dam. Families will learn about safety gear, playground and pool safety, see a sample disaster kit, explore a variety of safety vehicles and have their baby car seats checked. Local entertainers will perform.
WRVEC to Host Annual Hooked on Education Fishing Tournament This Saturday, the White River Valley Electric Cooperative will conduct its annual Hooked on Education fishing tournament. Money raised during the event will benefit the Cooperative’s Scholarship Trust Fund. Over the past 20 years over $1.2 million in scholarships has been provided for college tuition and career training expenses for local students. The tournament will start at 7 a.m. from Theodosia Marina on Bull Shoals Lake. The fee for a two-person team is $100. More information and online registration can be found at WhiteRiver.org.
Effort to Limit Malpractice Suits Fails in Missouri Senate An effort to protect doctors from large punitive damage awards in medical malpractice suits has been stopped in the Missouri Senate. The State Supreme Court has ruled that Missouri’s previous caps on non-economic damages violate the State’s constitution. Doctors had been hoping the legislature would pass a new law this year preventing punitive damages greater than $350,000. Eight hours of debate left the bill’s sponsor without a vote. An alternate proposal to establish a State pool that would pay punitive damage claims above $350,000 was voted down.
April 30, 2013
Law Enforcement to Crack Down on Underage Drinking and Driving Starting this Thursday through May 13, Missouri law enforcement will be cracking down on underage drinking and driving during the season of graduation parties. It is illegal for anyone under 21 to possess or consume alcohol in Missouri. Persons under 21 who are caught driving with even a trace of alcohol in their system are subject to jail time, loss of driver licenses, or being sentenced to use ignition interlocks.
Participants Sought for 2013 Relay For Life The American Cancer Society is seeking participants to join the fight against cancer at the upcoming Relay For Life of Taney & Stone Counties on the night of Friday, June 7 at the Cedar Ridge Track in Branson. Anyone interested in being a part of the 2013 Relay For Life is encouraged to attend a Team Rally at the First Baptist Church of Branson this Thursday at 5:30 p.m. Attendees will learn details about the June event, and receive information and resources for starting a team.
C of O Opens New Ice Cream Parlor in The Keeter Center College of the Ozarks recently opened a new ice cream parlor called the College Creamery in the lobby of The Keeter Center. The ice cream is made completely by students using all natural ingredients, including fresh cream from the campus dairy. The parlor serves classic and specialty flavors, including the new “Bobcat Crunch,” which features oatmeal cookies, toasted almonds, pecans, and white chocolate chips. The College Creamery is open daily from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Branson to Host Veterans from Historic Vietnam Battle May 2-7 Branson will be the host city for the 20th Annual Military Reunion of 1/7 Cav LZ X-RAY Veterans. This unit’s historic battle was written about in the book "We Were Soldiers Once… And Young," which was also made into a movie starring Mel Gibson. This battle was the first engagement of the Vietnam War in November 1965, with 450 American soldiers surrounded by 2,000 North Vietnamese.
Roy Rogers Jr. Adds New Show Features for Final Season in Branson Roy Rogers Jr. recently announced that 2013 will be his final season in Branson. Rogers will perform a limited schedule for the remainder of the season at the RFD-TV Theater, filling the 2 p.m. time slot on Wednesdays and Fridays in May. The show will return in September and November, performing Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. In honor of the final season, some new features have been added to the show, including segments regarding his musical influences and tributes to his parents.
The Wilderness at Silver Dollar City Named Among Best Midwest Campgrounds The Wilderness campground at Silver Dollar City has been named one of the best Midwest Campgrounds by Midwest Living magazine. The property was chosen based in its scenery and amenities provided to guests. The Wilderness offers rustic log cabins that are hand hewn by Silver Dollar City craftsmen, as well as RV and tent campsites. Amenities include a swimming pool, general store and a free shuttle to Silver Dollar City.
C of O Students Awarded at Missouri Academy of Science Five College of the Ozarks students won awards at the annual Missouri Academy of Science competition. Students gave a 12-minute oral presentation and answered questions from judges and audience members. C of O’s Katey Glaspy took first place in chemistry, and Makayla Enxer placed first in biology. Carly Engel finished second in chemistry, and Charles Laber took the third place position in chemistry.
April 29, 2013
Branson Police Investigating Break-in at AJ's One Stop The Branson Police Department is investigating a break-in that occurred early Sunday morning at AJ's One Stop Convenience Store on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway. The break-in occurred at about 3 a.m. when the front glass door was shattered with a rock. Items that were stolen included soda, liquor and an expensive piece of electronic equipment. Police are searching for a suspect whose image was captured on a security camera. Anyone with information about this incident should contact the Branson Police Department at 334-3300.
Two Teens Plead Not Guilty to Brooks' Murders The two teenagers accused of murdering a couple near Lampe on January 31 pleaded not guilty last Friday. 17 year old Anthony Zarro and 16 year old Christopher Allen have both been charged with two counts of 1st degree murder, three counts of armed criminal action, 1st degree robbery and 1st degree burglary. The teens will be tried as adults for the murders of Paul and Margaret Brooks. They are scheduled for preliminary hearings on May 29.
Galena Woman Injured in One Vehicle Rollover A woman from Galena was injured in a one vehicle accident at about 12:10 a.m. Sunday on Highway 413, one mile southeast of Galena. A car driven by 38 year old Tonya Trivitt ran off the roadway, struck an embankment and overturned. Trivitt was taken to Mercy Hospital in Springfield for treatment of minor injuries.
Branson School District Names Tim Brown New Head Basketball Coach The Branson School District has named Tim Brown as its new head basketball coach. Brown replaces Brian McTague who resigned earlier this month to accept a position at Glendale High School. Brown earned an undergraduate degree from Drury University and holds a master’s degree from William Woods University. He was employed with the Fair Grove High School prior to his commitment to Branson.
Senior Art Exhibit on Display in C of O's Boger Art Gallery The College of the Ozarks Boger Art Gallery is hosting a Senior Art Exhibit now through this Friday, May 3. The exhibit, entitled “Linear Transmissions,” features the artwork of three graduating seniors: Christopher Yankey, Jonathan Boland and Alysha Flint. Styles include sculpture, painting, drawing and computer illustration. The exhibit is free and open to the public.
Barry Williams Inducted Into Missouri Walk Of Fame Branson entertainer and former child star on the Brady Bunch, Barry Williams, was inducted into the Missouri Walk Of Fame in Marshfield last Friday. The Missouri Walk of Fame is Missouri’s version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Each year the walk honors famous Missourians and a star is unveiled during the annual Cherry Blossom Festival. Williams has made Branson his permanent residence and is in his third year of performances.
Matzat Advances as Presidential Scholar Branson senior Corey Matzat has been named one of approximately 500 semifinalists in the 2013 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. He was selected from more than 3,900 candidates on the basis of superior achievements, leadership qualities, personal character and involvement in community and school activities. The Presidential Scholars will be selected by a group of eminent citizens appointed by the President. One young man and one young woman will be selected from each state by the Scholars Commission.
April 26, 2013
Branson City Administrator Resigns The Branson Board of Aldermen has accepted the resignation of City Administrator Dean Kruithof. In his letter of resignation, Kruithof explained his wife has accepted a new position that will require her relocation to Northwest Arkansas. The board will begin the process of hiring a City Administrator as quickly as possible. Mayor Raeanne Presley said that the Board has already asked Kruithof to stay during a 10 week notification period as required in his employment contract and may ask him to stay beyond this period to allow for a smooth transition as the City approaches the busy summer season.
Firefighters Called to Multiple Vehicle Fire Western Taney County fire crews were called to the scene of a multiple vehicle fire at a residence on Highway 160 on Thursday. When firefighters arrived, there were a total of 5 vehicles burning and several more threatened. Firefighters worked quickly to extinguish the fires in all of the vehicles in about 15 minutes. The vehicles were located at a home where the homeowner works on cars. Two of the cars were at the location for repairs and the other vehicles were being stored to be scrapped. The cause of the fire could not be determined due to the extent of damage to the vehicles. No one was injured in the incident.
Cape Fair Woman Injured in Two Car Collision Near Branson A woman from Cape Fair was injured in a two car collision just before 5:00 Thursday afternoon on Highway 76, two miles east of Branson. The collision occurred when 20 year old Tiffany Welch attempted to turn onto Highway 76 and failed to yield to a car driven by 59 year old Lawrence Turner of Branson. Welch suffered moderate injuries and was taken to Cox Branson for treatment.
Branson’s Arbor Day Ceremony Postponed Due to Rain Branson’s annual Arbor Day Ceremony that was planned for today has been postponed due to rain. The ceremony will be held on Monday, May 6 at 1:30 p. m. at the Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area. The afternoon will commence with a walk from the parking area to the historic Owen’s Homestead where there will be a brief presentation regarding general tree care. Two Dogwood trees will be planted near the homestead and the Missouri Conservation Department will present the City with its 18th consecutive Tree City USA Award.
Branson Aldermen Approve Memorandum for Dog Park Donation At the last Branson City Council meeting, the Board approved the first reading of a Memorandum of Understanding pertaining to a donation for the Elmo and Rosalea Marrs Memorial Dog Park. Recently, a son of Elmo and Rosalea Marrs contacted the City about an opportunity to name a facility or park after his parents, who were frequent visitors to Branson. The gentleman was told about a planned dog park and he agreed to donate $80,000 to name the park in honor of his parents. Designs for the dog park had already been created and will now be implemented as soon as possible.
C of O Students to Present Annual Cirque de Variete College of the Ozarks Theatre Department will present Cirque de Variete this Monday and Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. in Jones Auditorium. Cirque is an annual variety show created and performed by C of O students. Different from all past performances, the 2013 Cirque will incorporate more people and feature various solo and duet performances. Students will be allowed priority seating for the event but remaining seats will be available to the public free of charge.
New Equipment Speeds up Processing in Cox Branson Lab New lab equipment at Cox Medical Center Branson means patients’ lab results are now being processed faster. This new system allows for most chemistry tests to be completed in less than an hour from the time the blood sample is received in the lab, allowing the physician the ability to access a patient’s diagnostics more quickly. The lab can process up to 300 samples per hour. The new lab equipment will cost the hospital in excess of one million dollars over the next seven years.
April 25, 2013
Ammonium Nitrate Spills from Overturned Truck on Highway 248 A small amount of ammonium nitrate pellets spilled from a truck when it overturned on Missouri Highway 248 Wednesday afternoon. The driver suffered minor injuries and was taken to an area hospital for evaluation. Ammonium nitrate is used as a fertilizer and the spill did not create a danger to residents. The product can become explosive, but only when mixed with other products. An environmental contractor was called to clean up the site which took several hours to complete. One lane of Highway 248 near the Taney-Stone County line was closed during the cleanup.
Equipment Failure Causes Semi-truck to Overturn on Highway 160 Equipment failure caused a semi-truck to run off the road and overturn early Wednesday afternoon. The accident occurred at about 1:30 p.m. on Highway 160, five miles east of Reeds Spring. The driver, 45 year old Paul Wayland of Benton, Arkansas, received minor injuries and was taken to CoxHealth Branson for treatment.
Brenda Lamb Sentenced for Assault, Resisting Arrest 45 year old Brenda Lamb appeared in Taney County Circuit Court last week and entered guilty pleas to two felony charges plus assault in the second degree and resisting arrest. She admitted to strangling a woman at the Hillbilly Inn in Branson on September 21, 2011. When Branson police arrived on the scene, Lamb fought with officers which resulted in the additional resisting arrest felony charge. Circuit Court Judge Mark Orr sentenced Lamb to 5 years in prison for assault in the second degree and 4 years in prison for resisting arrest.
Branson Chamber Names New Chief Marketing Officer Leah Chandler will become the new Chief Marketing Officer for the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, effective May 20th. Chandler is a cum laude graduate of Indiana State University, with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Communications. She comes to Branson from the agency side of tourism marketing. For the past five years she worked as Account Director for the Missouri Division of Tourism, managing a budget of over $10 million. Most recently, Chandler led Missouri Tourism’s re-branding effort which launched this past Monday. She was hired after a nationwide search.
C of O Becomes Ambassador for 60th Anniversary of Korean War College of the Ozarks has been recognized as a local ambassador to the United States Department of Defense’s 60th Anniversary of the Korean War. The KW60 program seeks to honor the service and sacrifice of Korean War veterans, commemorate key events of the war and educate Americans about the significance of that war. The college plans to participate in the Korean War Armistice Day 2013 in Washington D.C. C of O also plans to send several students and Korean War veterans on a Patriotic Education Travel trip to Korea in October.
Korean War exhibit at C of O's Keeter Center
Christian Action Ministries Receives Over 4 Tons of Donated Food Christian Action Ministries has received over 4 tons of food items this month. In early April the Branson SIX show collected and delivered 7,400 pounds of food to CAM. This past Saturday 200 women from the Springfield South Stake Relief Society collected 664 pounds of food during a collection at the new LDS church in Branson West. CAM provides a four day supply of food to over 1,000 families each month. Groceries are distributed from CAM’s Branson and Forsyth facilities and also from a mobile pantry which serves eastern Taney County residents.
April 24, 2013
Firefighters Rescue Woman Trapped Under Minivan in Hollister Crews from Western Taney County Fire responded late Tuesday afternoon to a report of a woman trapped under a vehicle at an intersection in Hollister. When they arrived at the scene they found a woman under the rear axle of a minivan which was resting against a tree in a ditch beside the road. Firefighters used inflatable airbags to raise the minivan and free the woman. She was taken to CoxHealth Branson with moderate injuries. A small child in the vehicle received minor injuries. Taney County Ambulance personnel and the Hollister Police Department assisted firefighters.
Two Teens to be Tried as Adults for Brooks' Murders Two teens accused of killing a couple in Stone County last January 31 will be tried as adults. 17 year old Anthony Zarro of Spring, Texas and 16 year old Christopher Allen of Nashville, Tennessee have been charged with two counts of first-degree murder, three counts of armed criminal action, plus charges of felony robbery. Circuit Court Judge Alan Blankenship issued the ruling certifying the teens as adults, citing the violent and vicious nature of the assault and the lack of evidence that the teens would benefit from treatment in a juvenile facility.
Branson Transfers Ownership of Fuel Tank to Scotty’s Trout Dock Branson Aldermen have approved the transfer of ownership of a fuel tank from the city to Scotty’s Trout Dock. The city has had a long-term lease of the tank from Scotty’s, which is adjacent to the city-operated Lakeside RV Park. In the year 2000 the city purchased a fuel tank that was placed near the dock for fuel sales. The purchase price for the tank was added to the lease payment, to be paid off over time. The payment has been completed and this board action transfers full ownership of the tank to Scotty’s Trout Dock.
Issues Arise with Proposed Chick-fil-A Site in Branson Construction has not yet started on the Chick-fil-A restaurant in Branson. The chain had planned to build a facility in front of the Kohl’s store in the Shoppe’s at Branson Hills. The Branson Tri-lakes News reported that the location does not fit the guidelines established by the developers of the shopping center. To build there would require a change to various documents by numerous different parties. When Chick-fil-A officials attempted to check with the various parties, not everyone was thrilled with that location in front of Kohl’s. There are other potential sites in the shopping center and the process now is to find the best site for the restaurant.
Tuesday Deadline for Branson Business License Renewal Next Tuesday, April 30, is the deadline for renewing business licenses and liquor licenses in Branson. After that date a business that has not renewed will operate on a temporary license fee of $7.50 per day until the license is renewed. Then the accumulated fee plus the normal renewal fee must be paid for license renewal. Reminder notices were mailed to businesses in the city in early March. Licenses can be renewed at Branson City Hall or by mailing the application. Normal office hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The office will remain open until 6 p.m. next Tuesday.
Kander Re-launches Website to Combat Investment Fraud Missouri Secretary of State Jason Kander has announced the re-launch of a website designed to educate and protect residents from becoming victims of investment fraud. Through the site, Missourians can check the status of their investment broker or advisor, obtain investor educational materials and find the latest news on actions and orders issued through Kander’s office. The website address is MissouriSafeSavings.com.
April 23, 2013
Charges Filed in Connection with Sunday Night Shooting in Branson West The Stone County Sheriff’s Department reported that charges have been filed in connection with a shooting Sunday evening at 128 Fritts Way in Branson West. 42 year old Carmen Martin Ramos-Herrera has been charged with 1st degree assault and armed criminal action with bond set at $250,000. It was determined that the suspect and the shooting victim were residing at the same residence and had an ongoing disagreement throughout the day. As time progressed, it became physical and then a weapon was pulled and discharged. The victim was shot in the foot and was treated at Cox Springfield.
Pubic Invited to Give Input at Downtown Branson Streetscape Meeting The public is invited to a meeting for the Historic Downtown Branson Streetscape Project this Thursday from noon to 2 p.m. at the downtown streetscape design studio located at 210 S. Commercial Street. The design team will summarize public input received during the initial phase of the project and offer the public an opportunity to provide feedback and comment on the preliminary concept visions for the historic downtown project. The goal is for the completed project to attract new businesses, tourists and residents to the area and reinforce the City’s commitment to its unique community offerings.
C of O Collects Baseballs & Gloves for Troops On Saturday, April 13, College of the Ozarks hosted Baseball for Heroes, wherein students and community members attended the Bobcats home baseball game and brought baseball gloves and balls to be sent overseas to troops in Afghanistan. More than 120 balls and gloves were collected. In addition, more than 100 “thank you” messages were video recorded to be sent to the troops. The collected equipment will be sent to C of O Associate Professor of Military Science Lieutenant Colonel James Schreffler and the 135th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion. C of O students collect donated gloves and baseballs to send to troops
Safe Sleep Initiative Launched by Skaggs Foundation Skaggs Foundation has launched the Safe Sleep Initiative to prevent healthy babies from dying due to unsafe sleeping environments. Thanks to a $3,000 grant from the Ozarks Health Advocacy Foundation, Pack n’ Play portable cribs along with safe sleep educational materials will be provided to qualifying families with infants. Qualified applicants are those living under 250% of the federal poverty level who have no other options for a safe sleep environment due to inability to afford a crib or transient housing arrangements. For application questions, call 417-335-7340.
Four Healthcare Providers Awarded as Champions of Healthcare The Branson community honored 24 nominees and 4 award recipients at the second annual Champions of Healthcare Dinner on April 20 at Chateau on the Lake. The awards were developed to honor those in the healthcare industry that go above and beyond to ease the discomfort of others and provide a superior level of care. The recipient of the Community Caregiver Award was Sharon Nesbitt for her work as field coordinator for Oxford Health Care. The Medical Innovator Award went to Jan Harper for her dedicated work as the Director of the Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab department at Cox Medical Center Branson. The newly added award for Family Advocate was awarded to Sharon St. Amant from Oxford Health Care. And the Patient’s Choice Award recipient was Dr. Holly Wherry with Cox Medical Center Branson.
April 22, 2013
Tipped Crane Causes Power Outage in Downtown Branson Power was out in a portion of downtown Branson from about 8:30-10 a.m. this (Monday) morning after a crane tipped over onto some power lines. The incident occurred near the intersection of Atlantic and Sycamore, across the street from Rocky’s Italian Restaurant. The crane was in the process of moving a heavy piece of equipment. No injuries were reported.
Suspect Arrested for Shooting in Branson West The Stone County Sheriff’s Department reported that a suspect is in custody following a shooting at about 7 p.m. Sunday evening at 128 Fritts Way in Branson West. When police arrived on the scene they found a Hispanic man with a gunshot wound to his lower leg and were informed that the suspect, another Hispanic man, had already fled the scene. The victim was transported to Cox Springfield for treatment of his injuries. At approximately 9 p.m., Green County Deputies apprehended the suspect on Interstate 44. He is being held at the Stone County Jail pending charges. The identity of the two men has not yet been released.
Branson Woman Sentenced to Seven Years for Domestic Assault Taney County Prosecutor Jeff Merrell announced that 30 year old Jennifer Townsend, also known as Jennifer Trainer, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for second degree domestic assault, armed criminal action, and felonious restraint. Townsend was charged with the felonies after cutting a roommate with a knife during an argument over some personal property, on August 14, 2012. Townsend was living with the victim in a house on Gailwood in Branson.
Merriam Woods Man Injured in One Vehicle Accident A man from Merriam Woods was injured in a one vehicle accident at about noon Saturday on Route F, five miles north of Branson. An SUV driven by 20 year old Jose Murillo ran off the roadway, was overcorrected and overturned. Murillo suffered moderate injuries and was taken to Cox Branson for treatment.
$500,000 to be Distributed for Community Health and Wellness Up to $500,000 in grants will be distributed next fall to improve the health and wellness of Taney and Stone Counties. These grants are possible because of Skaggs’ recent affiliation with CoxHealth that included a donation to establish the Skaggs Legacy Fund. Grants will be available to assist and support health-related agencies and initiatives throughout the two-county area. Taney and Stone County non-profits with a focus on health and wellness are strongly encouraged to attend one of two informational meetings about Skaggs Foundation’s grant application and disbursement process. The first meeting is this Wednesday at 10 a.m. in the community room at Branson West City Hall. The second meeting is slated for this Thursday at 10 a.m. in the community room at White River Valley Electric Cooperative on East Highway 76. Reservations are not required. For more information, call 335-7340.
S of O Girls Take First Place in Track Meet The School of the Ozarks Girls Track Team won first place overall at the Nixa Invitational JV Track Meet on April 15. Out of the seven girls on the track team, six of the girls, all freshman, competed. Rachel Snyder took first place in the high hurdles, 300 meter hurdles and triple jump, and also placed third in the high jump. The S of O Boys Track Team also competed in the meet and placed eighth overall.
From left: S of O Girls Track members Fiona Hubbard, Annie Spears and Rachel Snyder are shown with their first place Nixa Invitational JV Girls award
April 19, 2013
Republic Man Arrested on Drug Charges after Foot Pursuit in Branson West The Stone County Sheriff’s Office reported that 24 year old Justin Morgan from Republic is in custody on drug charges after suffering injuries during a foot pursuit. On the morning of April 17, Deputies were at 35 Lewallen Lane in Branson West speaking to the occupant when Morgan climbed out a bedroom window and fled into the woods. During a pursuit by deputies, Morgan ran through a drainage tunnel underneath Highway 13 and sustained head lacerations from hitting his head on the roof. He was found a short time later behind a log at the bottom of a ravine. Southern Stone County firefighters assisted in carrying him from the ravine on a back board due to a possible spine injury. He was transported to Mercy Hospital where he was treated for his injuries and then brought back to the Stone County Jail. Morgan has been charged with possession of methamphetamine, which was found in his backpack.
Hollister Woman Seriously Injured while Fleeing from Police A Hollister woman suffered serious injuries in a one vehicle accident at about 11:40 Thursday morning on Highway 76, one mile east of Hollister. 51 year old Vivian Hawkins was fleeing from police when she failed to negotiate a curve. Her car ran off the roadway and struck four mailboxes, two electrical poles and a rock bluff. She was transported to Cox Springfield for treatment of serious injuries.
Branson High School Names New Assistant Principal Branson High School has named a new assistant principal for the 2013-2014 school year. The board of education has approved employment of Anthony Lourenco to replace Jeff Wilcox. Lourenco is currently a business instructor with the Joplin School District and was previously employed with the Webb City School District. He holds graduate degrees in teaching and administration from Missouri State University. His new duties with the Branson School District begin July 1.
Taney County Recorder of Deeds To Participate In E-recording The Taney County Recorder of Deeds Office is now participating in the state’s E-recording service that provides for the filing of documents via the Missouri Electronic Portal. Recorder Robert Dixon stated that the service did not cost the County any funds and was being provided by Mobilis Technologies of Blue Springs, Missouri. Those using the service pay a fee for electronically filing their documents with the Recorder’s Office. The service is provided as a convenient alternative to mailing the documents.
S of O Students to Begin Beekeeping, Selling Honey For several weeks, School of the Ozarks students have been preparing for a new task, beekeeping. The beekeeping project will provide students with a hands-on learning, work-study experience. On April 24 at 10:30 a.m. the public is invited to a bee welcoming reception near the campus garden where approximately 32,000 bees will be placed in the hives. Students will tend to the bees, design labels and prepare a marketing plan for the honey. If all goes well, the students will have their first honey harvest in the fall. They will then process and bottle the honey to sell at one of the campus gift shops.
Clay Cooper Theater Receives April Beautification Award The Branson Tree Board announced that The Clay Cooper Theater is the recipient of the April Beautification Award. The exterior of the theater and surrounding landscaping were dramatically updated in 2010 when Clay Cooper moved his show to the new location. The Beautification Award is presented on a monthly basis between April and October. Nominees must be a commercial property within the Branson city limits with a landscaped area highly visible to the general public. To submit a nomination, call 337-8544 or email tnorback@bransonmo.gov.
April 18, 2013
Woman Arrested for Bomb Threat at Stone County Courthouse A woman was arrested Wednesday in relation to the 911 calls made April 10th, where threats were made to blow up the Stone County Courthouse. Teresa Jane Pickering is charged with making a terrorist threat. She was arrested in another state after a Stone County judge issued a warrant for her arrest. Investigators determined that the 911 calls were made from an area near Holt Woods Road and Highway 13, using a cell phone purchased earlier that day from a store in Branson. If convicted, Pickering could receive a prison sentence of up to four years.
Construction Debris Fire Damages Home in Emory Creek A fire in a pile of trash spread into nearby woods Wednesday evening requiring assistance from Western Taney County fire crews. Contractors working on a house under construction started the fire in a pile of construction debris, then went next door to work on another house. Embers from the trash fire were blown by high winds into the woods. When workers noticed that the fire had spread, they called 911. The incident occurred north of Branson on North Ridge Drive in the Emory Creek Ranch Subdivision. There was some damage to the siding on the rear of the house under construction.
Two Teens Accused of Brooks Murders Appear in Court Two teenagers, accused in the January 31st murder of a husband and wife near Lampe, were in Stone County Court Wednesday for a hearing on whether they will be tried as adults. 17 year old Anthony Zarro from Texas and 16 year old Christopher Allen from Tennessee are accused of killing Paul and Margaret Brooks while they were staying at a family member’s house. Testimony was given by detectives who investigated the crime. Currently in juvenile court, the teens are charged with 12 separate counts. Judge Alan Blankenship will issue a decision whether the boys will stand trial as adults.
C of O to Host Missouri Academy of Science Competition A Missouri Academy of Science Competition will be held this Friday and Saturday at College of the Ozarks. Students of varying class levels from across the state will compete. They will present their research in behavioral science, chemistry, biology, engineering, physics, mathematics and environmental science. Finalists and winners will be announced for each of the categories. Also during the event, C of O Associate Professor of Biology Dr. Robert Snyder, will lecture on the importance of protecting mountain mist forest and pastoral livelihoods in northern Kenya. The competition is open only to registered students, teachers and sponsors.
C of O students conduct a lab for microbiology
Bonniebrook Historical Society to Host Annual Open House and Tea The annual Bonniebrook Historical Society Open House and Tea is planned for this Saturday. The event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. is open to the public and there is no admission charge. Free tours of the house, the museum and the fine art gallery reveal why Rose O’Neill was one of the most notable women illustrators in the early 20th century. Society volunteers will be available to answer questions and provide assistance. Live music and light refreshments will be provided. The Bonniebrook homestead is located north of Branson off Highway 65.
Voices of Glory to Hold Branson Project Graduation Benefit Show Voices of Glory will hold a Branson Project Graduation Benefit Show Friday night. The $10 special ticket price is for individuals who live or work in Taney or Stone Counties. The Voices of Glory siblings have developed their show into a high energy performance of pop, jazz, soul and gospel. They were a top 5 finalist on America’s Got Talent. The Project Graduation Benefit Show at the Hughes Brothers Theatre starts at 8 p.m.
April 17, 2013
Foundation Distributes $14,000 to Local Non-Profits The National Christian Foundation, based in Kansas City, has developed a local presence in Taney and Stone Counties, under the direction of a local board of directors. The organization helps promote a climate of generosity in giving to non-profit organizations and helps donors maximize the effectiveness of their donations. The first annual Passion Awards banquet was held Monday evening at the Best Western Hotel near Notch. A total of $14,000 was distributed in varying amounts to 11 local not-for-profit organizations. The organizations had submitted grant applications and a local committee awarded the grants based on the answers to the questions on the application.
Boston Marathon Runner from Branson Avoids Bombs, Plans Return A Branson man escaped injury during the bomb blasts at the Boston Marathon on Monday. The Branson Tri-Lakes News reported that Richard White had finished the marathon an hour before the blasts and was on the subway returning to his hotel. His wife, his daughter and White’s mother were at the finish line to watch him complete the race but they also were gone by the time of the blasts. White said this incident will not prevent him from returning to the city in the future to run his 6th Boston marathon.
Fire Destroys Volkswagen Bus Near Lampe Crews from the Southern Stone County Fire Protection District used dry chemicals and foam to extinguish a stubborn magnesium fire when they responded to a vehicle fire Tuesday. Firefighters from station 15 found a Volkswagen Bus fully involved when they arrived at the site on Waldon Ridge Road near Lampe. The 1972 bus had recently been restored. The cause of the fire is under investigation. There were no injuries.
Federal Fugitive Found in Boone County Abandoned Mine A man wanted by the U.S. Marshall’s Office was found in an abandoned mine in a rural part of Boone County, Arkansas. 37 year old Owen Wheeler was being sought for not appearing in federal court on charges of identity theft and tax fraud. Information obtained from witnesses indicated that Wheeler had been in the area for a few days. He was apprehended by a joint effort of the Boone County Sheriff’s Department, the 14th Judicial District Drug Task Force and the U.S. Marshall’s Office.
Highlandville Business Owner Sentenced for Failure to Pay Taxes A Highlandville business owner has been sentenced in federal court for withholding but failing to pay his employees FICA taxes to the IRS, and for failing to pay his own income taxes. 46 year old Paul Ray Rose was sentenced to two years and three months in federal prison without parole and ordered to pay $586,739 in restitution to the IRS. He pled guilty last November to 2 counts of failing to pay taxes. Rose owned and operated Newby Enterprises in Highlandville. The company produced industrial size foam insulated cardboard boxes.
More than 150 Missouri Schools Join Safe and Sober Program 153 schools in Missouri have signed on to the new statewide Safe and Sober program which takes the message of sobriety to high school students. The program started nine years ago as a way to keep Southwest Missouri teens safe during prom and graduation season. The effort has now spread statewide through a $130,000 grant from the Missouri Department of Transportation. Missouri Safe and Sober offers participating schools free videos that tell real stories of how a night of drinking can turn deadly. Students also receive information on how to handle peer pressure. Other videos target parents with ways to talk with their teens about drinking.
April 16, 2013
Ridgedale Woman Injured in Vehicle Rollover into Pond A woman from Ridgedale was injured in a one vehicle accident at about 3:00 Monday afternoon on Highway 76 at Camp Edwards Road in Kirbyville. An SUV driven by 35 year old Chasity Workman ran off the roadway, struck a mailbox and a culvert, overturned into a fence and came to rest in a pond. Workman suffered moderate injuries and was transported to Cox Branson for treatment.
Reeds Spring Man Injured in One Car Crash A Reeds Spring man was injured in a one car crash at about 9:15 Monday night on Welch Road, four miles west of Kimberling City. The Highway Patrol reported that 41 year old Joseph Palumbo failed to negotiate a curve. His car travelled off the roadway and struck a tree and a fence. Palumbo was taken to Cox Springfield for treatment of moderate injuries.
Property Owner Injured in Brush Fire Near Reeds Spring The Southern Stone County Fire Department responded to a reported one acre brush fire with injuries at about 2:30 Monday afternoon. The incident occurred on Weeping Willow Lane off Highway 76 west of Reeds Spring. Fire crews contained the fire and Mercy EMS transported the property owner to the hospital with burns to his hands.
Mercy Hosts Law Enforcement Drill at Old Branson Inn Area law enforcement officers were invited to conduct a drill at the old Branson Inn motel this morning before Mercy dismantles the buildings to make room for the new Mercy Clinic Branson at the intersection of Highways 65 and 248. Officers broke down doors and performed other exercises as part of a tactical breaching course. The agencies involved included sheriff’s offices from Taney and Jasper counties, police departments from Springfield, Branson and Webb City, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
PSC To Hold Public Hearing on Emerald Pointe Water, Sewer Rates The Missouri Public Service Commission will hold a public hearing in Branson tomorrow on water and sewer rate cases filed by Emerald Pointe Utility Company. The public hearing will be held in the City Council Chambers at Branson City Hall, beginning with a question and answer session at 6 p.m. Under the proposed rate changes, customers would see a slight decrease in their monthly water bill but a large increase in their sewer bill. Emerald Pointe Utility Company serves approximately 380 water and sewer customers near Hollister.
School of the Ozarks Places First in Math Competition Twenty School of the Ozarks students participated in the Senior High Math Leagues held at College of the Ozarks on April 11. The Patriots competed in the 1A/2A division, placing 1st overall, 1st in Trigonometry, and 2nd in Geometry. This was the first time School of the Ozarks students have competed in a math competition.
Branson High School to Host Informational Meeting for Sophomores Branson High School counselors will conduct an informational meeting for incoming sophomores and their parents from 6-7 p.m. tomorrow evening in the High School Commons. The counseling staff will provide information about college entrance exams, AP/Dual Credit classes and general information about high school course offerings. Parents are encouraged to attend with their student.
April 15, 2013
Hollister Woman Sentenced for Resisting Arrest, Assault A Hollister woman has been sentenced to three years in prison for resisting arrest and assaulting a law enforcement officer. On the night of November 23, 2011, 45 year old Brenda Lamb attempted to interfere with efforts by Hollister Police Officers to arrest her son, Mark Anthony Lamb - who was a fugitive with active Taney County warrants. Upon being told she was under arrest for interfering with officers, Lamb threw a cell phone which hit one of the officers.
Sharp Gets Three Years for Fundraising Scam Taney County Prosecutor Jeff Merrell announced that 54 year old Derl Sharp pled guilty and was sentenced to three years in prison in connection with a fundraising scam. In November 2012, the Branson chapter of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) reported that a man in downtown Branson was panhandling for donations on behalf of the DAV without their authority and had not delivered any of the donations collected to the DAV. Branson police investigated and arrested Sharp, who initially lied to officers about his identity. $2,059 was seized from Sharp, which he surrendered to the Branson DAV as part of his plea agreement.
MoDOT Seeks Help from Drivers To Keep Highway Work Zones Safe The Missouri Department of Transportation announced that this week is Work Zone Awareness Week. In 2012, eight people were killed and 623 people were injured in Missouri work zone crashes. The top five contributing factors were following too closely, inattention, improper lane use or change, failure to yield and driving too fast for conditions. MoDOT asks drivers to slow down in work zones, avoid cell phone use and other distractions, drive sober, obey signs and pay attention to flaggers if present.
World-Fest Brings International Flair to Silver Dollar City Silver Dollar City’s annual World-Fest opens this Wednesday and runs through May 5. The festival features international performers and cuisine from around the world. In addition to traditional favorites, new acts this year include drummers and dancers from Argentina, island fire knife dancers, Alpine folk music and Italian singers and dancers. For tickets or more information, visit SilverDollarCity.com.
Blue Eye Grad Receives Early Promotion to Navy Seaman Apprentice A 2012 graduate of Blue Eye High School, Christopher C. Thornborrow, was recently promoted to Navy Seaman Apprentice upon graduation from recruit training in Great Lakes, IL. Thornborrow received early promotion for outstanding performance during all phases of the training cycle. Training included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety.
C of O's Ralph Foster Museum Hosting Children’s Art Show The College of the Ozarks Ralph Foster Museum is presenting a Children’s Art Show now through May 10 in the Edwards Art Gallery. The show features artwork submitted by area schools showcasing the talent of local students. Admission prices are $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $4 for military and free for ages 18 and under. The Ralph Foster Museum is open Mon-Sat from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, call 417 690-3407.
Painting by student Cheyenne Winkles from Bradleyville
Two Webb City Women Injured in Two Vehicle Collision Near Silver Dollar City
School of the Ozarks to Hold Historic First Commencement
The Bretts Unveil New Company
Moonshine Beach Opens this Wednesday
Branson to Celebrate 53rd Annual Plumb Nellie Days
C of O Student Named Honorable Mention for Nursing Student of the Year
Branson Senior Corey Matzat Named United States Presidential Scholar
Connell Insurance Chosen for Small Business Award
Dewey Short Visitor Center Receives LEED Certification
C of O Now Growing Hydroponic Lettuce for Use at Keeter Center
Omaha Man Arrested for Sexual Indecency
Arvest Donates Set of Paintings to Historical Society in Forsyth
Branson Police Captain Scotty Penner Retires
SDC's Bluegrass & BBQ Festival Opens this Thursday
Dr. Sue Head Receives “Don Gabriel Kingdom Builder Award” at Ozark Mountain Prayer Breakfast
Cops for Kids Fishing Tournament is this Tuesday
200 Roller Coaster Enthusiasts to Ride Outlaw Run
The Great Passion Play Opens Tomorrow
CoxHealth Branson to Hold Annual Safe Summer Injury Expo
C of O Opens New Ice Cream Parlor in The Keeter Center
Roy Rogers Jr. Adds New Show Features for Final Season in Branson
The Wilderness at Silver Dollar City Named Among Best Midwest Campgrounds
Two Teens Plead Not Guilty to Brooks' Murders
Barry Williams Inducted Into Missouri Walk Of Fame
Matzat Advances as Presidential Scholar
Branson City Administrator Resigns
Firefighters Called to Multiple Vehicle Fire
New Equipment Speeds up Processing in Cox Branson Lab
Ammonium Nitrate Spills from Overturned Truck on Highway 248
Branson Chamber Names New Chief Marketing Officer
C of O Becomes Ambassador for 60th Anniversary of Korean War
Firefighters Rescue Woman Trapped Under Minivan in Hollister
Charges Filed in Connection with Sunday Night Shooting in Branson West
Pubic Invited to Give Input at Downtown Branson Streetscape Meeting
C of O Collects Baseballs & Gloves for Troops
Tipped Crane Causes Power Outage in Downtown Branson
S of O Girls Take First Place in Track Meet
Republic Man Arrested on Drug Charges after Foot Pursuit in Branson West
Branson High School Names New Assistant Principal
Clay Cooper Theater Receives April Beautification Award
Construction Debris Fire Damages Home in Emory Creek
C of O to Host Missouri Academy of Science Competition
Fire Destroys Volkswagen Bus Near Lampe
Federal Fugitive Found in Boone County Abandoned Mine
School of the Ozarks Places First in Math Competition
World-Fest Brings International Flair to Silver Dollar City
C of O's Ralph Foster Museum Hosting Children’s Art Show