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Word for Life --------------------------------------------------- Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another — and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
--------------------------------------------------- Hebrews 10:25
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.
February 8, 2012
Santorum Wins Missouri’s Non-Binding Republican Presidential Primary Former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum won Missouri’s non-binding Republican presidential primary. 12% of Taney County voters and 14% of Stone County voters participated in the Tuesday primary. Santorum received 58% of the vote in Taney County and Mitt Romney received 22%. Santorum received 60% of the vote and Romney 24% of the vote in Stone County. The primary election cost Missouri tax payers about $7 million.
C of O Firefighters Save Fellow Student's Life Four College of the Ozarks student firefighters recently resuscitated a fellow student who had suffered cardiac arrest. 21 year old Walter Watts, a senior at CofO, was working at his campus job when he collapsed. Moments after the 911 call was placed the four students from the fire department located on campus arrived at Watts’ side with an automated external defibrillator known as AED. A shock was delivered and Watts regained a pulse and started breathing. The four responding firefighters had been trained in cardio cerebral resuscitation and AED usage as part of Taney County’s Operation LifeNet.
Boone County Woman Convicted of Child Endangerment A Boone County woman was convicted Monday of two counts of endangering the welfare of a minor. The Harrison Daily Times reported that 57 year old Anna Barber and her husband Tommie were arrested in October 2009 after authorities responded to a complaint that two children were living in deplorable conditions. They found the 8 year old and 10 year old locked in a room with the windows boarded shut. The children had never attended school and could not read or write. When allowed outside they were chained to a tree or dog cage. The children testified and gave more details during the trial. Barber’s sentencing is scheduled for March 2nd. Tommie Barber is set for trial in mid-August.
SDC's D.A. Callaway Named Bluegrass Promoter of the Year Silver Dollar City’s park entertainment manager D.A. Callaway has been named ‘Bluegrass Promoter of the Year’ by the Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America. The award was presented last Sunday during the Society’s annual convention in Nashville, following voting by 2,000 musicians, performers and industry leaders. He coordinates and books the performers for the park’s annual Bluegrass and BBQ festival, to be held for the 8th time in May. Callaway is recognized in the industry for spotting up and coming new talent. He has been with Silver Dollar City for nearly 40 years.
Branson High Math, Speech and ROTC Students Earn Honors Branson students have received several honors and awards. Junior High students earned first place among southwest Missouri students at the recent Southwest Baptist University math tournament. The Branson Speech team was among the top 10 in a recent Speech and Debate tournament held at Parkview. 41 schools participated including 14 schools from Kansas City and St. Louis. And Branson’s High School’s Air Force Junior ROTC earned an overall unit assessment score that exceeded standards. It was the highest rating attainable during the rated unit evaluation.
Ticket Purchase Deadline for Black Tie Celebration is this Friday Residents have until this Friday to purchase their tickets to the annual Black Tie Celebration. For the first time, in honor of Branson’s centennial, Black Tie will be open to non-Chamber members as well as those belonging to the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. Last year over 600 people attended the celebration. The event, planned for Saturday February 25th, is expected to sell-out again this year. Various community awards will be presented, honoring those who have helped make Branson what it is today.
February 7, 2012
Three Teens Arrested for Theft of Nine Vehicles The investigation of the theft of 9 vehicles over a three month period has resulted in the arrest of three Taney County teenagers. An 18 year male from Kissee Mills was connected to the theft of seven cars plus the burglary of a convenience store in the Forsyth area. A 16 year juvenile male from Taneyville was connected to the theft of five of the cars. With the investigation continuing, another 16 year old male from Kissee Mills was arrested Monday. All nine cars were stolen from the Kissee Mills and Forsyth areas. All the cars were unlocked with the keys inside when they were stolen. The cars were driven for several hours, then abandoned. The cars have been recovered.
Stone County Clerk Files Lawsuit Against County in Connection with Accident Last Year Stone County Clerk Judy Berkstresser has filed a lawsuit against Stone County. KY3 news reported that the suit relates to a traffic accident Berkstresser had a year ago at the intersection of Billy Joe Road and Marble Road. The suit claims that the intersection had been designated as dangerous and should have a three way stop. There is a stop sign on Billy Joe Road but none on Marble Road. The suit says that Berkstresser turned from Billy Joe onto Marble, in front of oncoming traffic that she could not see because of a blind hill. Berkstresser received serious injuries in the accident.
Boone County Sheriff’s Department Files Annual Report The Boone County, Arkansas Sheriff’s Department has filed their annual report for the year 2011. Deputies investigated 6,599 complaints and made 1,058 arrests. They investigated 99 traffic accidents, 45 drug cases and seized 10 meth labs. Deputies documented 105 sex offenders in the county. 2,097 individuals were booked into jail, 94 for public intoxication and 174 were DWI. The department harvested 15,030 pounds of food from its garden which saved $700 a month in inmate food costs. Boone County has 20 full-time deputies and 15 full-time jailers.
Branson West License Office has New Management Company The driver’s license office in Branson West has a new management company. Koester and Koester was selected as the new agent for the Lakeview office. The company was chosen from a competitive bidding process and was one of two bids submitted. Koester and Koester operates three other Missouri license offices and has been the agent for the Branson office since last month. The Lakeview office will remain at the Claybough Plaza in Branson West. That office processed 36,294 transactions last year. The agent pays the state a percentage of revenue collected.
Burn Awareness Week Focuses on Scald Burns This is Burn Awareness Week. One of the focus areas this year is preventing scald burn injuries. A scald is a burn from a hot liquid or steam. Children can experience more severe scald burns because their skin is thinner. The most common places children receive scalds are in the kitchen, dining rooms and bathrooms. The maximum recommended residential water temperature is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. The only burn center in southwest Missouri is located at Mercy Hospital in Springfield. Mercy treats 275 inpatients and 4,000 outpatients for burns each year.
February 6, 2012
Branson Man Gets 6 Years for Vending Machine Thefts 24 year old Timothy Lemmons of Branson has been sentenced to six years in prison after pleading guilty to felony stealing in connection with a string of vending machine break-ins in August of 2010. On August 4, 2010, Branson Police were patrolling near the location of Angel Inn, after receiving reports of several vending machine break-ins around that area. An officer stopped a car in which Lemmons was a passenger and found metal shavings, a pair of forceps, a drill bit, and a key ring full of small vending machine keys. Other occupants of the car later told the officer that Lemmons had been “drilling” vending machines and stealing money from them.
Shell Knob Woman Injured in One Car Crash A woman from Shell Knob was injured in a one car crash at about 9:15 last Saturday morning on Stallion Bluff Road, ten miles east of Shell Knob. The Highway Patrol reported that a car driven by 63 year old Delanie Hall ran off the roadway and struck a ditch and a tree. Hall suffered moderate injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in Cassville for treatment.
Walnut Shade Man Injured in One Vehicle Accident A man from Walnut Shade was injured in a one vehicle accident at about 9:20 last Saturday morning on Highway 65, one mile north of Branson. A pickup driven by 25 year old Tyler Lasmanis ran off the roadway, went down an embankment through some trees and came to rest in a creek. Lasmanis was transported to Skaggs Regional Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.
Big Cedar Lodge Seeking to Buy Gage’s Long Creek Marina The owners of Big Cedar Lodge in Ridgedale have signed a letter of intent to purchase Gage’s Long Creek Marina near the Long Creek bridge on Table Rock Lake. According to the Springfield Business Journal, the $2.3 million transaction is contingent upon the approval of a federal bankruptcy judge at a hearing on February 16. Gage’s Long Creek filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last June and would like to sell the property rather than have it liquidated. If approved by the court, the sale would include the Long Creek commercial dock and attached buildings, several other docks, a motor yacht, furniture and equipment, the lease with the Secretary of the Army and approximately 130 annual boat slip rental accounts.
Silver Dollar City Featured in Nationwide Competition Silver Dollar City is in the middle of a nationwide competition to name the best theme park in America. The contest is happening on the website 10Best.com and voting is open through February 19. Silver Dollar City is currently ranked 3rd behind Walk Disney World and Cedar Point.
Legends in Concert Acquires State-of-the-art Stage Set Legends in Concert will open their 2012 season with a new state-of-the-art stage set that was recently used at Madison Square Gardens during a performance by Brazilian singer/songwriter Ivete Sangalo. The set was intended to be taken on Sangalo’s tour, which has been canceled. Jeannie Horton, General Manager for Legends in Concert, said the set will take their production to a whole new level. The set was created by All Access Inc., a company specializing in staging for touring, film & television, and special events such as movie premiers, festivals and even the Super Bowl Half-Time Show. Legends in Concert opens on February 9th for the 2012 season at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater.
February 3, 2012
Reeds Spring Man Sued for Cheating Joplin Tornado Victims Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster is suing a contractor from Reeds Spring for cheating Joplin tornado victims. Koster’s lawsuit alleges that E. Brian Sides and his construction company ABP Quality Construction in Branson West failed to provide tens of thousands of dollars in goods and home repair services after receiving payment from tornado victims. Koster is seeking a restraining order requiring Sides to stop operating a construction business and to provide restitution to customers who were damaged. In addition, he is asking the court to impose civil penalties of $1,000 per violation and to require the defendants to pay for all court, investigation, and prosecution costs.
Seven from Stone County Arrested on Drug Charges Seven people were arrested on drug charges in Stone County on Wednesday, February 1. The warrants stemmed from 15 different cases and up to two and a half years of investigation by the COMET Drug Task Force. Arrested during the round up were 45 year old Paul Howard of Crane, 39 year old Pamela Hackathorn of Reeds Spring, 45 year old Kimberly Brown-Leach of Hurley, 39 year old Deanna Fisher of Galena, 33 year old Justin Stanton of Crane, 24 year old Lisa Gee of Crane and 35 year old Jeffery Cypret of Crane. Five more individuals who have moved away from the area are still being sought.
Three from Crane Injured in One Car Crash Three people from Crane were injured in a one car crash shortly before 9:00 Thursday night on Highway 160, four miles northwest of Branson. The Highway Patrol reported that a car driven by 37 year old Timothy Washington ran off the roadway and struck a tree. Washington and 47 year old passenger Jason Essary suffered moderate injuries. A five year boy sustained serious injuries. They were all transported to Mercy Hospital in Springfield for treatment.
Hollister High Partners with Branson Airport for Aviation Program Hollister High School is partnering with the Branson Airport and AirTran Airways to provide junior class students with a unique educational opportunity. The program is set-up to expose students to all the different job opportunities in aviation and will include a ride on AirTran Airways to the nation’s largest commercial service airport located in Atlanta. On Thursday afternoon, February 2nd, a special assembly was held for the junior class to make the surprise announcement that they would all have the opportunity to participate in the program in small groups throughout the month of February.
Carnahan Encourages Voters to Participate in Presidential Primary Secretary of State Robin Carnahan is encouraging voters across the state of Missouri to participate in the February 7 Presidential Primary even though the Republican Party has indicated they will use caucus results on March 17 instead of the primary results to choose a candidate. Local election officials have estimated that about 23 percent of Missouri registered voters will take part in the primary. All polling places in the state will open on Tuesday at 6 a.m. and close at 7 p.m.
Junior Auxiliary Collecting Stuffed Animals Traumatized Kids The Junior Auxiliary of Taney County has designated February as “Have a Heart” month and is asking the community to participate by donating new stuffed animals for their Tender Critters service project. The stuffed animals will be donated to the Emergency Department at Skaggs Regional Medical Center for children who are suffering a trauma and needing comfort. The donations can be dropped off at Branson United Methodist Church, Skaggs Fitness Center, Branson Curves, Branson First Presbyterian Church and Liberty Bank on Highway 165.
February 2, 2012
Two Stone County Men Arrested for Stealing Items from Outbuilding Two Stone County men have been arrested on charges of second degree burglary. 29 year old Richard Wrinkle of Reeds Spring is being held in the Stone County Jail with a $75,000 bond. 54 year old Earl Hall of Kimberling City is being held with a $25,000 bond. A citizen saw the men taking items from the outbuilding of a residence. The sheriff’s department was contacted with a description of the men and the truck they were driving. Deputy Brandon Flack saw the truck run a stop sign at KK Highway and Missouri 176. The truck was stopped and the arrest made. The homeowner later identified the items in the truck as being his own.
CAM's Food Distribution Increased 50% Last Year A report from Christian Action Ministries shows that food distribution to families in need increased 50% last year, compared to 2010. In 2010 CAM averaged 750 families per month visiting the pantries in Branson and Forsyth. Last year, the number rose to 1,157. The new location in Forsyth is in a visible site and has hosted people who formerly did not know about the pantry. CAM has also added a monthly mobile outreach to remote areas of eastern Taney County. For the year, business donations were down $12,000 but church donations were up $11,000.
Mild Winter Means No Snow Days So Far for Area Schools A mild winter with no snow on the roads means no days without school so far this year. The Branson Tri-Lakes News reported that Branson schools cancelled classes for 10 days last school year and 8 days the previous year. The National Weather Service says a positive Arctic Oscillation is keeping the cold weather up north and is the reason for the mild temperatures so far this year. This area experienced a negative Arctic Oscillation in the previous two winters which allowed cold air to spill down into the Midwest. Above average temperatures are expected to continue.
Registration Now Open for Skaggs Health Fair Screenings Registration is now open for health screenings to be performed during the upcoming Skaggs Health Fair. Screenings that require appointment plus a small fee include fasting cholesterol with glucose, the Prostate Specific Antigen blood test, mammograms and ALC tests which measure average blood glucose for the past two to three months. For appointments call 335-7733. Free screenings will include skin cancer screenings, blood sugar finger sticks and foot screenings. 15 minute presentations on a variety of topics will also be given by Skaggs healthcare professionals. The Health Fair is scheduled for Saturday, February 25th from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will be held in the Skaggs Outpatient Center.
Missouri’s 2012 Fiscal Year-To-Date Revenue Collections Up 1.3% Missouri’s 2012 fiscal year-to-date revenue collections increased 1.3% compared to last year. Collections for January increased 2% compared to the previous January. Sales and Use tax collections increased 2.4% for the year and 3.5% for the month. Individual income tax collections were up 2.5% for the year and 4.1% for the month. Corporate income taxes decreased 10.8% and all other collections decreased 23.1% for the year.
Organizations Sought to Feed School Children During Summer Months The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is seeking organizations throughout the state to help feed children who would otherwise go without meals during the summer months when school is not in session. The program reimburses organizations for the meals they serve. Organizations eligible to participate include schools, camps, local governments, non-profits and faith-based organizations. More information is available by calling 888-435-1464.
February 1, 2012
Skaggs Seeking Key Strategic Partner for the Future Skaggs Regional Medical Center is issuing a Request For Proposals to find a key strategic partner for the future. The purpose is to explore ways to continue providing high quality medical care and meet commitments to Skaggs employees and to the community. The healthcare industry is forced to look at new ways of operating due to the evolving private insurance market, the national financial crisis and healthcare reform legislation. These changes are creating opportunities for partnerships in which health systems and hospitals come together in joint ventures, affiliations and mergers. Benefits of a partnership include additional resources and contracting, capital infusion and physician recruitment.
Skaggs Responds to Advances in Medicine with Changes to Services Skaggs Regional Medical Center is responding to advances in medicine by changing some of the services the hospital provides. For example, Stent technology has reduced the number of open heart surgeries performed at Skaggs. Contracts tied to that service will be allowed to expire in March. All affected Skaggs employees will be retained. The hospital will continue to provide needed cardiology services, which includes non-invasive care and cardiac rehab.
Susan G. Komen for the Cure Halts Funding of Planned Parenthood Susan G. Komen for the Cure, a leader in fundraising for breast cancer research announced that it is halting all partnerships with Planned Parenthood affiliates. Komen has given funds to some Planned Parenthood affiliates for manual breast exams and referrals for mammograms and biopsies to check for cancer. Komen has recently adopted guidelines that forbid the funding of organizations that are under government investigation. Planned Parenthood is under investigation for the alleged use of public money to fund abortions. The Springdale, Arkansas based regional office of Komen For the Cure recently expanded its affiliation to include Taney and Stone counties.
Taney County Agencies Conduct Virtual Aircraft Emergency Drill Leaders from Taney County public safety agencies attended a local disaster training session last Friday, held at the Branson Airport. The virtual event simulated a large aircraft emergency. Representatives from local agencies discussed how their personnel and resources could respond in such an emergency. A full-scale disaster exercise will be held at the airport in early March. The Federal Aviation Administration requires commercial service airports to conduct a tabletop emergency drill each year and a full-scale emergency exercise once every three years.
Branson Aldermen Approve Renaming of Personnel Department Branson’s Personnel Department has a new name. Aldermen have approved a bill to amend the Municipal Code to change the name to the Human Resources Department. This will update the designation to the current industry standard. The title of the director and associated city committees will also be renamed to reflect the change. Aldermen also approved renaming a portion of Branson Landing Boulevard back to Long Street. That portion of the road was known as Long Street prior to the construction of Branson Landing Boulevard. The name ‘Branson Landing Boulevard’ will be carried across the new Taneycomo Bridge to the roundabout in Hollister.
Hollister Aldermen to Meet in Regular Session this Thursday Hollister Aldermen plan to meet in regular session Thursday evening. Agenda items include a request allocation for Hollister School District homeless students, a budget guidance letter, a bill to amend the electrical code and a bill to amend the appeals procedures. The 7 p.m. meeting will be held in Hollister Town Hall, located at 312 Esplanade Street.
January 31, 2012
Kirbyville Woman Sentenced to 8 Years for Consumer Fraud Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster reported that Edna Kay Jackson of Kirbyville has been sentenced to 8 years in prison for consumer fraud. Jackson brokered and sold mobile/modular homes through her business, Dogwood Homes. A Greene County jury found Jackson guilty on seven counts of defrauding consumers in October 2011. Jackson sold homes and collected the purchase price but failed to deliver either the homes or clear title to the homes to the buyers. In addition, she brokered the sale of homes for customers but failed to give either the sellers or their banks the money from the sales.
Bids Approved for 2nd Phase of Water Meter Replacement Program Branson Aldermen have approved three bids for water meters and installation as part of the Water Meter replacement program, where commercial water meters are being replaced due to service age and inaccuracy. Some of the meters have been in the ground for over 22 years. The phase 1 project in 2010 saw an additional 54 million gallons documented and billed that were not being recorded by the aging meters that were in place. The revenue from this water paid for the replacement meters in a single year. The phase 2 equipment will be installed early this year, with a third phase expected later this year.
New Stores Opening Soon at Branson Landing A couple of new stores are scheduled to open soon at the north end of Branson Landing in a spot that has never had an active tenant across from Belk Department Store. Black Oak Grill, inspired by the black oak trees throughout America, will feature American cuisine with a warm, lodge-style interior. Next to Black Oak Grill will be Versona Accessories, featuring women’s fashion accessories and gift items. Also, opening at the south end of Branson Landing in the Neighborhood District will be Sports Zone, offering sports products, apparel and décor.
Ralph Foster Museum to Host Area Appreciation February 1-11 The Ralph Foster Museum at College of the Ozarks will host area appreciation with free admission February 1-11, for residents of Taney, Stone, Christian, Greene, Boone and Carroll counties. The Ralph Foster Museum is dedicated to the history of the Ozarks region and is named in honor of the late Ralph D. Foster, radio pioneer and philanthropist. Among other things, the museum houses the original Beverly Hillbillies car, Music Hall of Fame, Rosie O’Neil’s Kewpie Doll Collection and one of the largest gun collections in the country. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Taney County Health Dept Nutritionist Earns International Credential The Taney County Health Department announced that one of its nutritionists has earned an international credential. The desire to provide expert care for families inspired Women Infant and Children (WIC) Nutritionist, Tawana Rennison, to earn the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant credential. The training will allow Rennison to better assist mothers in Taney County with common breastfeeding challenges and thereby promote the nutritional value and health benefits that come from breastfeeding. Rennison is a 2003 graduate of College of the Ozarks majoring in Dietetics. She helps lead a free breastfeeding support group that meets once a month at the Taney County Health Department in Branson. For more information, call (417) 334-4544 or visit TaneyCoHealth.org.
January 30, 2012
Fire Destroys Condo Unit at The Greens at Thousand Hills The Branson Fire Department responded to a condominium fire at about 12:30 Saturday afternoon at The Greens at Thousand Hills on Green Mountain Drive. Firefighters were able to contain the blaze to the second story unit where the fire started, however several other units received smoke and water damage. Everyone made it out of the building safely and The Red Cross was called in to help the occupants of the destroyed unit. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Fire Destroys Outbuilding on Highway 7 North Near Bergman Boone County Sheriff Danny Hickman reported that a fire at about 5:30 last Friday morning destroyed an outbuilding at 4134 Highway 7 North. The owner of the building, Allen Munise, expressed concern that there may have been a homeless person in building however Bergman Fire Chief Steve Brannon said that there was no one in the building at the time of the fire. Munise said there was no electricity to the building, and the cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Mayor Raeanne Presley Appointed to National League of Cities Committee Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley has been appointed to the National League of Cities’ 2012 Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Steering Committee. This Committee has the lead responsibility for developing the League’s federal policy positions on issues involving air and water quality, energy policy, national wetlands policy, noise control, and solid and hazardous waste management. The National League of Cities is a resource and advocate for 19,000 cities, towns and villages, representing more than 218 million Americans.
Church Army Volunteers Find 7 Homeless Men, Stolen Vehicle Church Army Branson volunteers found more than just homeless individuals during the latest Point in Time Count last week. As volunteers were searching for homeless people by Stockstill Park, they saw a luxury SUV that looked suspicious. They wrote down the license plate number and took it to Branson Police who told them it was a stolen vehicle they had been looking for. As far as the Point in Time Count, volunteers found a total of 7 men who qualified as homeless under the state's definition of homelessness because they were without shelter meant for human habitation. Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church provided all the funds to give these men backpacks full of food, water, blankets and other necessities.
College of the Ozarks Deans to Address How C of O Operates College of the Ozarks Dean of Development Tim Huddleston and Dean of Work Education Chris Larsen will address how C of O operates at a convocation tomorrow evening at 7 p.m. in Jones Auditorium. Dean Huddleston will share on the impact gift income has on the College, and Dean Larsen will talk about the importance of the Work Education Program and work ethic. The event is free to the public.
Josh McDowell to Speak at First Baptist Branson this Wednesday Nationally known Christian author and speaker, Josh McDowell, will be at First Baptist Branson this Wednesday from 6:30-8 p.m. McDowell will speak on his new book “Unshakable Truth – Essentials of a Relevant Faith,” and will also hold a brief question and answer time. During the event, there will be a children’s program in the Life Center with inflatables, a concert, teaching and more. The event is free, but tickets are required. For more information, call 417-334-7437 or visit FBCBranson.com.
January 27, 2012
Kirbyville School District Asks for Audit Concerning Tax Funds Error The Kirbyville School District has asked the Taney County Commission for a formal audit concerning the erroneous distribution of school district tax funds dating back to at least 2001. Taney County Collector Sheila Wyatt recently discovered an error in the railroad and utility tax distributions due to a software programming mistake. As a result, the Taney County school districts of Kirbyville, Hollister, Branson and Forsyth have been receiving the wrong share of tax funds over the past decade. Kirbyville has been told that it received about $300,000 more than it should have over the past 10 years, which is about one-third of the district’s annual operations budget.
Proposed Library District Tax will not be on April 3 Ballot Taney County Commissioners have decided not to put a proposed library district property tax on the April 3 municipal election ballot. The deadline to place the tax issue on the ballot passed on January 24. The Taney County library district board was formed in May of 2011 with the purpose of creating a county-wide library system. The board is requesting a 20 cent tax levy to fund the library district, which would be about $38 a year for a home valued at $100,000. Commissioners have not yet decided when they will place the issue on the ballot, but according to state law, it must be within the next 5 years.
Branson Commits $5K/Year for Business Development Partnership The Branson Board of Aldermen has approved an annual commitment of $5,000 for the newly created Taney County Business Development Partnership. This new organization will focus on the elements of retention and expansion, small business entrepreneurship, business attraction, both tourism and non-tourism jobs, workforce development and project management. In addition to Branson, local governments which have already declared their intent to participate include Taney County, Merriam Woods, Hollister, Rockaway Beach, and Kirbyville.
Forsyth Man Seriously Injured in ATV Accident A Forsyth man was seriously injured in an ATV accident just after 5:00 Thursday evening on Route KK, 10 miles south of Kissee Mills. The Highway Patrol reported that an ATV operated by 31 year old Jimmie Mitchell overturned in the roadway, ejecting Mitchell. He was airlifted to St. John’s Hospital in Springfield for treatment.
Shell Knob Man Fatally Injured in One Vehicle Accident A man from Shell Knob was fatally injured in a one vehicle accident at about 7:20 Thursday evening on Route 39, a half mile north of Carr Lane in Stone County. A pickup driven by 63 year old Gary Barta ran off the roadway, struck a culvert and overturned. Barta was pronounced dead at the scene and taken to Stumpff Funeral Home in Kimberling City.
Skaggs Announces Leadership Changes in Nursing Staff Skaggs Regional Medical Center has announced two new leadership changes within its nursing staff. RN Linda Zimmer has accepted the new position of Skaggs Director of Patient Experience and will be responsible for all aspects of patient satisfaction. RN Doug Beckman has been promoted to nursing director for the medical and post-surgical units, which includes the Skaggs Joint and Spine Center which he helped design and implement.
Traffic Alert for Route 13 Widening Project Work continues on the Route 13 Widening Project between Branson West and Kimberling City. During the coming week, drivers should watch for short-term traffic stops at Route OO, lane closings at Lakeshore Drive, trucks hauling rock and dirt on Stoneridge Center Road and large equipment entering and leaving work areas. The widening project is scheduled for completion this December.
Roy W. Slusher Foundation Awards $100,000 to Area Nonprofits The Roy W. Slusher Foundation has awarded a total of $100,000 in grants to nearly one dozen nonprofits in Stone and Taney counties. The grants will help these organizations meet the increasing demand for food assistance in Branson and surrounding communities. The nonprofits receiving the funds are the Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks, Christian Action Ministries, Christian Associates of Table Rock Lake, Church Army Branson, Gift of Hope, Jesus Was Homeless, Lives Under Construction Boys Ranch, North Stone County Food Pantry and Our Lady of the Cove Catholic Church.
January 26, 2012
Branson Aldermen Review National League of Cities Conference Branson aldermen reviewed their recent trip to the National League of Cities Conference when they met in regular session Tuesday evening. The conference provided information on a variety of issues that face municipal governments across the nation. Topics included downtown redevelopment, community involvement, infrastructure planning, sustainability, affordable housing, commercial sports facilities, utilities technology and social media. The conference in Phoenix was attended by four of the six aldermen plus the mayor and city administrator.
Branson Aldermen Discuss Legislative Priorities Branson Aldermen discussed the upcoming session of the State Legislature, especially regarding issues that could impact the Branson area. The discussion involved topics like electronic data centers, the Taney County 911 coalition, tourism promotion in the state budget and the state budget cap bill. The board was asked for their feedback so staff could prepare a resolution for approval at a later date.
Missouri Lawmakers Upset by Gun Sight Stickers near Office Doors Missouri state lawmakers are expressing outrage about stickers appearing near some of their office doors. The stickers look like gun sights and appeared on the name plaques near the doors of four women democratic senators, one male republican senator and the senate democratic leader. When some stickers were removed, they were replaced by larger ones. Lawmakers say they find nothing funny about the activity, especially with the shooting of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords in Arizona last year.
Harrison Sees Record Rainfall of 2.25 Inches Wednesday Rainfall in Harrison set a new record Wednesday. 2.25 inches of rain broke the old record of 1.45 inches, set in 1949. The heavy rain in northern Arkansas caused flooding of some roads. The Harrison Daily Times reported that a Newton County man rescued a woman and child from a stranded car on a low water slab over Dry Branch Creek. Ricky Smith lives near that crossing. He saw the problem and drove his tractor to the car. The woman and child climbed on the tractor and Smith drove them to safety. Water was about three feet high on the slab. The Harrison swift water rescue team had been dispatched but was forced to turn back before reaching the scene.
Titanic Museum Unveils Unique Jewelry Collection The Titanic Museum has unveiled a new jewelry collection. The Titanic Jewelry Collection includes Art Nouveau and Edwardian-styled rings, necklaces, earrings and broaches. Each item is paired with a biography of one of the fashionable women passengers on the Titanic. The museum developed the unique line of jewelry over a seven month period in collaboration with Jewelry Television. Items are available for purchase. Details at JTV.com.
Circle B and Ozark Murder Mysteries Moving to New Theatre The Circle B Supper Show and Ozark Murder Mysteries are moving to a new theatre for the upcoming season. The two shows are moving to Branson Central Theatre, located on Highway 165 near Green Mountain Drive. The theatre was formerly known as the Shake It Up Show Club. Both shows will perform select dates in February. Information is available at CircleBShow.com.
January 25, 2012
Branson School District Buys 31 Acres West of High School The Branson School Board has approved the purchase of 31 acres west of the high school. The property will provide more room for construction of a planned activity center for the school plus additional parking. The $452,000 purchase from HCW LLC was paid from the district’s capital projects fund. The school board also approved bids for renovating the Corporate Woods building on Bee Creek Road which was purchased last year. The building, which is occupied by the district’s central office, will receive inside stairs and an elevator.
Southern Stone County Firefighters Battled Three Brush Fires Tuesday Rainfall has provided needed relief from extremely dry conditions here in the Ozarks. The Southern Stone County Fire Protection District fought three separate brush fires on Tuesday. All the fires were less than two acres in size and were extinguished before buildings were damaged. The fires were on Y Highway, H Highway and near Cape Fair.
Public Invited to Ceremony Marking Vietnam Peace Accord The public is invited to attend a candlelight ceremony marking the 1973 signing of the Vietnam Peace Accord. The ceremony will be held at 1 p.m. this Friday at the Veterans Memorial Museum on Highway 76 in Branson. The Branson Veterans Task Force is hosting the event to recognize the end of America’s longest and most controversial war and to honor those who fought in it.
Third Annual Guns Vs Hoses Basketball Game is this Saturday Branson police and firefighters are taking to the basketball court once again. The third annual Guns Versus Hoses Basketball Game will start at 6 p.m. this Saturday at the Branson High School. There is no admission charge but donations will be accepted, with proceeds benefiting the police and fire associations. Door prizes will be awarded including a free night stay at the Hilton Hotel along with a gift card for dinner. A halftime showdown will feature Police Chief Kent Crutcher and Fire Chief Ted Martin.
Voting for U of M Extension Council Board Members Ends Friday Voting for new board members for the University of Missouri Extension Council concludes this Friday. Taney County residents may vote by internet for board members who will begin duties in March. Six people are on the ballot for the Western District and six others for the Eastern District. Any county resident 18 years of age or older may vote at Extension.Missouri.edu/Taney. A paper ballot may be obtained at the extension office located just east of the Taney County Judicial Center in Forsyth.
Construction Phase of New Dewey Short Visitor Center Nearing Completion The construction phase of the new Dewey Short Visitor Center is nearing completion. Inside work continues, including building a rock bluff and a cascading waterfall. Exhibits are expected to start arriving late next month with placement beginning in March. The Ozarks Rivers Heritage Foundation is making arrangements for the installation of innovative fixtures in the new Discovery Gift Shop. A date for the ribbon cutting ceremony is yet to be announced.
January 24, 2012
AirTran Announces New Daily Flights to Chicago and Houston AirTran Airways, a wholly owned subsidiary of Southwest Airlines, announced that it will begin daily nonstop service from Branson Airport to Chicago and Houston starting April 16. Branson Airport Executive Director, Jeff Bourk, said these new flights are exciting because Chicago and Houston are large visitation markets for Branson. For a complete list of destinations available at the Branson Airport, visit FlyBranson.com.
Medieval Fortress in Arkansas Closed, Looking for Investors Due to a lack of funds, construction has stopped on the Ozark Medieval Fortress tourist attraction located between Lead Hill and Omaha, Arkansas. The castle will be closed this year as attempts are made to find investors to continue the project. Construction on the Medieval Fortress began in 2009 and was scheduled to take 20 years to complete using 13th century tools and building techniques.
Taney County Sheriff’s Inmate List Back Online Taney County Sheriff Jimmie Russell reported that the “Sheriff’s Inmate List” is back on the Taney County website after being down for several months due to an upgrade of the Jail Management software. The public can now visit TaneyCounty.org and click on “Sheriff’s Inmate List” to see a complete list of inmates, charges, bonds and other information. Other updates to the site are being worked on including inmate pictures and will be available in the near future.
Area St. John's Health Facilities to Change Names to Mercy Sisters of Mercy Health System announced that it will be changing the names of all of its hospitals and clinics in seven states to one name, Mercy, over the next year to avoid confusion with patients. Moving forward, all Mercy facilities will share a consistent name and logo. The changes begin January 31 when several facilities across the Ozarks will transition to the Mercy name, including St. John’s hospitals in Springfield, Joplin, Cassville and Berryville, as well as St. John’s clinics across the area.
Corps Repairing Flood Damaged Facilities, Welcomes New Park Ranger The US Army Corps of Engineers at Table Rock Lake has begun making repairs to facilities damaged during 2011 flooding. The most extensive renovation will be at Old 86 Campground. Work will be done on sixty campsites including electrical service, water, and block retaining walls. Due to the scope of the work involved, Old 86 may not be available for camping in 2012. In other projects, a new water well has been drilled at the Corps facility on Highway 165. The well services the training building and three volunteer campsites. A plan is being formed to build ten more volunteer campsites at this location. The Corps also welcomes Leah Deeds as the new park ranger at Table Rock Lake. Leah will arrive in February and serve as the Site Manager for the new Dewey Short Regional Visitor Center.
C of O to Induct Three Alumni into Sports Hall of Fame College of the Ozarks will induct three of its alumni athletes into the College of the Ozarks Sports Hall of Fame on February 4. Cara Painter, Ralph Hagewood and the late Chris Waller will be honored. Painter was a three year starter in basketball for the Lady Cats from 2003-2006. Hagewood was a four year letterman in track and field from 1966 to 1970. Waller was a four year letterman in basketball from 1997-2001.
January 23, 2012
Fire Destroys Home Near Lampe this Morning The Southern Stone County Fire Protection District responded to a house fire at about 5:20 this morning on Sun Valley Lane off Highway 86 near Lampe. The first unit on scene found a large two story residential structure well involved in flames with heavy fire showing through the roof. Eighteen firefighters including some from Central Crossing spent just over four hours on the scene. The home was a total loss but there were no injuries. The home was occupied by a family of three. One family member had taken another to work and upon returning they found the home on fire. The cause was determined to be a wood burning stove. The American Red Cross was called to assist with the family’s needs.
Branson Man Seriously Injured in One Car Crash A Branson man was seriously injured in a one car crash at about 3:25 early Sunday morning on Interstate 35 in Clay County, Missouri. The Highway Patrol reported that 21 year old Keelan Campbell lost control of his southbound car. The vehicle overturned multiple times and came to rest in the northbound lanes of I-35. Campbell was transported to Liberty Hospital for treatment.
Branson Man Sentenced to 5 Year for Domestic Assault and Drugs 31 year old Matthew Bolles of Branson has been sentenced to five years in prison on two separate charges of second degree domestic assault and possession of a controlled substance. The domestic assault case stemmed from a physical altercation with his girlfriend on September 18, 2010, at an apartment on Vineyards Parkway in Branson. In the drug possession case, on November 15, 2010, Branson Police found Bolles in possession of a controlled substance near Tri-Lakes Center on Highway 248. The two five year sentences will run concurrently.
Southwest Airlines Commits to Serving Branson Airport Southwest Airlines reported last Friday that it has made the decision to serve the Branson Airport by converting AirTran Airways at Branson to Southwest Airlines operations over time. Of the 69 cities AirTran served when Southwest acquired it on May 2, 2011, 53 cities, including Branson, are planned to convert to full Southwest Airlines service. AirTran flights at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport will be the first to fully convert to Southwest Airlines service on August 12 this year. Southwest and AirTran will announce future airport conversions as those specific plans are lined up.
Church Army to Conduct Point-In-Time Count this Wednesday For the 5th consecutive year, Church Army Branson will lead Taney County in the Point-In-Time Count, a street count of homeless individuals and families. Data from the count is used to gauge the housing and services needs for homeless persons in Taney County. The public is invited to help Church Army with the count this Wednesday, January 25, beginning at 8 a.m. at the Church Army, located at 602 S. Sixth Street in Branson. For more information, call 417-598-9240. Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church has provided funds to fill backpacks with nonperishable food items, clothes and necessities to be handed out during the count.
Wintering Bald Eagle Population Spikes at Table Rock Lake Each year in January, park rangers take a day to survey the bald eagle population at Table Rock Lake. This year a total of 136 bald eagles, 113 adults plus 23 juveniles, were counted in three count zones. This number is a marked increase over the survey conducted in 2011 when 43 bald eagles were counted, 37 adults plus 6 juveniles. Bald eagles nest at Table Rock Lake during winter months and can often be seen flying or perched in trees near the lake.
January 20, 2012
Racetrack Developer Considering Next Steps after BOA Hearing It is still unclear what the future holds for the proposed racetrack south of Hollister after the Taney County Board of Adjustment hearing this past Wednesday night. The Board approved some changes to the original project requirements to permit a peak sound level of 73 dBA and construction of the surrounding infrastructure in phases. However, the developers had asked for a peak sound level of 83 dBA and it is unclear how plans will proceed for the project.
Branson West Police Department Offers Free Home Drug Test Kits Branson West Police Department recently announced a new alliance with TestMyTeen.com, an organization that has donated free home drug test kit vouchers to be shared anonymously with parents who need them. The approach is designed to help parents protect their student from the dangers of substance abuse without sacrificing privacy. Research shows that parents are the number one reason why teens don’t use drugs. For more information about the free home drug testing program call the Branson West Police Department at 417-272-3400.
No Election Needed for Open Seats on Branson's Board of Education The filing period for a position on the Branson School District's board of education closed on January 17. Two, 3-year terms are open for the April 3 election. Terms will expire for Peter Marcellus and Wendy Davison. Peter Marcellus and Dan Boone filed for the two open seats on the board. Under Missouri law, when the number of seats open equal the number of filings made, an election will not be held. Marcellus and Boone will be sworn in at the April meeting of the board of education.
Branson High School Teachers Awarded Field Trip Grant Branson High School teachers Lara Wilbur, Keedy Smith and Stephanie Huddleston have been awarded a Target Field Trip Grant for $700. The grant will be used to fund a Community Integration field trip this spring. The field trip will provide an opportunity for students to enjoy a cultural experience outside the classroom while practicing social skills and appropriate community behaviors. The students will travel to Silver Dollar City.
New Management for Branson License Office The Branson License Office will soon have a new management team. Koester & Koester, LLC of Bowling Green, Missouri, will be the new agent for the license office. The company was chosen as part of a competitive bidding process that is used for all of Missouri's local license offices. Koester & Koester’s winning bid for the Branson License Office was one of two submitted. The office will stay at its current location in Cedar Ridge Plaza on Highway 248.
Care for Kids to Conduct Makeover Project at Forsyth Schools The Silver Dollar City Foundation’s Care for Kids program will conduct a makeover project at Forsyth schools tomorrow. Over 200 volunteers will gather to paint doorways, halls and cafeterias at Forsyth Elementary, Middle and High School buildings - over 20,000 square feet. This is the fifth school rehab project conducted by the Care for Kids program, which is providing the paint, supplies and coordination of volunteers for the project.
Sight & Sound Theatre Casting Young Males for "Joseph" The Sight & Sound Theatre in Branson is looking for a couple of young male performers for its 2012 show season of “Joseph.” Auditions for 7-9 year old and 10-12 year old boys will be held at the theatre on February 18. Applicants must have proof of an Entertainment Work Permit. Casting applications must be submitted by February 13 and can be obtained at the website Sight-Sound.com. The “Joseph” show will premier in Branson on April 14.
January 19, 2012
Tight Budgets Prompt Changes in Corps Park Operations The Ozarks River Heritage Foundation, based at Table Rock Lake State Park, would be responsible for four additional recreation areas, under a cost cutting proposal by the Little Rock District of the Army Corps of Engineers. Under the proposal, the Foundation would take over Old Highway 86, Mill Creek, Baxter and Campbell Point. Opening dates for recreation areas would be reduced to May 1st to September 15th. The Foundation would have to assume operations and maintenance costs for openings outside those dates. The Corp is seeking to cut costs by $1.9 million dollars annually by reducing services at numerous facilities and closing less efficient ones.
Several Taney County Officials Not Planning to Run for Re-election Several Taney County officials are not planning to run for re-election this year. These include Western District Commissioner Jim Strafuss and Assessor James Strahan. Both men are seeking the 29th District State Senate seat, currently held by Jack Goodman. County Treasurer Helen Soutee is planning to retire and not seek re-election. Sheriff Jimmie Russell is planning to run again. Branson Assistant Police Chief Steve Dalton is also planning to run for sheriff, as is former Taney County deputy Kenny Edmonds.
Branson High Speech and Debate Team Earns First Place Win The Branson High speech and debate team earned first place in the sweepstakes division at the Fair Grove Tournament last weekend. The competition included 350 students from 16 schools. In other school news, two classes of Branson Elementary West are working together to collect, investigate and chronicle the history of the first 100 years of Branson elementary schools. Field trips to old school sites in the area are planned. Students recently visited the Mountain Grove School on T Highway where they received a history lesson from Wayne Harding. That school was established in 1922. Students hope to publish a book on the 100 year history using two grants that will help with expenses.
OTC Would Lose $1.38 Million Under Governor Nixon’s Proposal If Missouri is forced to reduce state funding for higher education, Ozarks technical Community College should be impacted less than other colleges. The Springfield News-Leader reported that state appropriations make up 14 percent of OTC’s budget, compared to 40% of Missouri State University’s budget. Under Governor Nixon’s proposal, OTC would lose $1.38 million, some of which could be made up with higher tuition rates. OTC has started site preparation for their new campus adjacent to Highway 65 in Hollister.
Dr. Gary Smalley to Speak at College of the Ozarks Monday Evening Dr. Gary Smalley will speak at College of the Ozarks Monday evening. He will talk about his success as an author of books on relationships. Smalley is founder and president of the Smalley Relationship Center which is based in Branson. The ministry provides relationship coaching, nation-wide conferences, books, videos and small group curriculum. The convocation in Jones auditorium starts at 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Students receive priority seating.
Searcy County Sawmill Destroyed by Fire Wednesday Morning A Searcy County sawmill was destroyed by fire early Wednesday morning. The Harrison Daily Times reported that the Branscum Sawmill was owned by Arkansas State Representative David Branscum and cousin Ronnie Harness. They hope to have new equipment ordered by Friday and have the mill operational again within two months. The 1 a.m. fire started near a transformer. Firefighters from Marshall were able to save some of the equipment. The mill employed 20 people.
January 18, 2012
44 Dogs Rescued from Property Near Crane Working with the Stone County Sheriff’s Office, the Humane Society of Missouri Animal Cruelty Task Force has rescued 44 dogs from an unlicensed breeding facility near Crane. Many of the dogs were living inside a trailer and in an outbuilding on the property. Carpeting and flooring in the trailer and outbuilding were soaked with urine and covered in feces. Because the dogs were in distress and immediate jeopardy, a warrant was obtained to remove the animals. They were taken to the Humane Society’s headquarters in St. Louis. When the dogs are healthy, they will be available for adoption.
Jeff Justus to Run for State Representative of Newly Created 156th District Jeff Justus, owner of L & J Plumbing, plans to file for State Representative for the newly created 156th District. The District covers Branson, Hollister and a portion of Taney County east to Kirbyville, south to the state line and north to the county line. Previously Branson and Hollister were in the 62nd District which included part of Stone County. Justus plans to file on the republican ticket on February 28th, the first date for filing. He told KLFC that the time is right to run for office and his family is supportive of the effort.
Harrison Teenager Critically Injured in One Car Crash A Harrison teenager is in critical condition at a Springfield hospital after a one vehicle accident on Bellefonte Road. 16 year old Paige Collins was injured when the car she was driving ran off the road, hit a mailbox, became airborne, hit a tree and came to rest in a yard. Harrison Fire and Rescue had to rescue the teen from the car. She was taken to St. John’s Hospital by helicopter.
YMCA in Hollister Launching New Music Program The Ozark Mountain Family YMCA in Hollister is launching a new music program. Private and group lessons will be offered. Beginner lessons will be offered in piano, guitar, violin, mandolin, banjo, accordion and voice. Program instructor David Lingner and his family have been performing in the Branson area for several years. Four week sessions will begin the first Monday of each month. The Y is seeking donations of instruments for the music program. In addition to music lessons, the Y plans to offer social events like barn dances and live group performances. For details including pricing information, call Ozark Mountain Family Y at 337-9622.
Agenda for Hollister Aldermen Meeting Thursday Evening The Hollister Board of Aldermen plans to meet in regular session Thursday evening. Bills to be considered for amendments or deletions relate to electrical codes, floodplain management, building regulations and parking in the historic district. Aldermen will also discuss an intergovernmental agreement with Taney County regarding housing of inmates. And they will consider a resolution authorizing the mayor to execute the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission Road Relinquishment Agreement. The 7 p.m. meeting will be held in Hollister Town Hall.
Lilleys' Landing to Host Masters Trout Championship this Saturday Lilleys' Landing Resort and Marina, located on Lake Taneycomo in Branson, will host the Masters Trout Championship this Saturday. Rules for this catch and release tournament require artificial baits only. The entry fee is $50 for each two-person team. Cash prizes and trophies will be awarded to the top four teams. Teams with the heaviest brown and rainbow trout will be awarded Big Trout Cash Prizes. Details can be obtained at LilleysLanding.com.
January 17, 2012
Western Taney County Volunteer Firefighter Killed in Crash A head on crash Monday afternoon took the life of a Western Taney County volunteer firefighter. 43 year old Angus Walker was critically injured when his pickup truck hit an SUV near the intersection of Shepherd of the Hills Expressway and Roark Valley Road. He was taken to Skaggs Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased at 4:23 p.m. Two women in the SUV were taken to a Springfield hospital for treatment of serious injuries. Walker was using his own vehicle and was not responding to a call when the accident occurred. His two grown daughters live in New York.
Warming Light in Dog House Causes Mobile Home Fire Near Lampe A single wide mobile home in Stone County was destroyed by fire late Monday morning. The home was occupied by a mother and her son but they were not home at the time. The structure was located off Ross Lane near Lampe. High winds spread the fire into a portion of the woods near the home. A warming light in a dog house was determined to be the cause. The dog escaped without injury but another dog inside the mobile home was never located. The Red Cross was contacted to assist the family. 17 firefighters were on the scene for over two hours. No injuries were reported.
Love INC Starting Money Management Classes Next Week Love In the Name of Christ, known as Love INC, is preparing to launch Relational Ministry classes in Branson, Forsyth and Kimberling City next week. It’s an eight week, biblically based money management program designed to help individuals and couples. Participants learn the basics of tracking income and expenses, setting up a budget and setting family financial goals. People can earn vouchers for participation which can be used to acquire food, fuel, and sundries from local partner church ministries. For information call Love INC at 336-7056.
Historical Society Seeking Local High School Yearbooks The White River Valley Historical Society is looking for local high school yearbooks. The yearbooks provide historical information on schools, fads and clubs and genealogists use them to find photos of ancestors. The Society has a few in their collection, including some from the 1960’s, 1970’s and early 1920’s. They are seeking yearbooks from all area schools including small schools like Kirbyville, Mark Twain, Taneyville and Cedarcreek. For information call the White River Valley Historical Society at 417-546-2210.
Relay for Life Kick-Off Party is this Thursday The kick-off party for this year’s local Relay for Life is planned for this Thursday evening. It will be held at the Clay Cooper Theatre on Highway 76. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. and the event will start at 6 p.m. This is one way for new potential fundraising teams to join previous competitors to learn more about the American Cancer Society and about this year’s Relay. Volunteers are also encouraged to attend the kick-off party. This year’s Relay for Life is scheduled for June 1st and 2nd at the Branson Elementary School campus.
Missouri’s Firearms Deer Harvest Up 3% Over Previous Year Missouri’s firearms deer harvest this past season was nearly 239,000 animals, up 3% from the previous year. Hunters ages 6 though 15 took 2,193 deer during the late youth hunt January 7th and 8th. According to state statistics, each year in Missouri, over 500,000 hunters spend more than $690 million directly related to deer hunting. Deer hunting in the state generates over $1 billion of overall business activity and supports more than 11,000 jobs.
January 16, 2012
Children Playing with Lighter Cause Fire in Hollister Two children playing with a lighter caused a fire Saturday afternoon on Matthew Lane in Hollister that started in a shed and spread to the home causing major damage to the home. Western Taney County Firefighters responded to the fire just before 3 p.m. Twenty firefighters brought the flames under control in about an hour and remained on the scene until about 5 p.m. The family lost most everything but got out of the house before it caught fire. The two children reported the fire to a parent just after they accidentally started the fire wile playing with a lighter in the shed. Fire officials ask that parents remind their children of the dangers of playing with fire.
Taney County Deputies Seize Working Meth Lab Near Kissee Mills Taney County Sheriff’s Deputies located and seized a working meth lab at 383 Lakeway Road near Kissee Mills on Sunday. Deputies working off of information obtained during a traffic stop received consent to search from the person living at the address, 29 year old Michael Weeks. Once inside Deputies located and seized a working meth lab and meth product. Weeks was taken into custody and has been charged with manufacturing a controlled substance. He is being held in the Taney County Jail on $100,000 bond.
Powersite Man Arrested for Growing Marijuana in Basement A man from Powersite was arrested last Friday in connection with growing marijuana in his basement. Taney County Sheriff’s Deputies applied for and received a search warrant for a home at 303 Richmond Road in Powersite. Upon serving the search warrant Deputies located 6 marijuana plants in the basement inside a cabinet as well as grow lights that were being used for the plants. 50 year old Adam Kuhs, who was living at the home, was taken into custody and charged with manufacturing a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was released on Saturday after posting a $10,000 bond.
Jury Convicts Nixa Man of $134,000 Counterfeit Check Scheme A Nixa man has been convicted by a jury in federal court of participating in a conspiracy to create and cash more than $134,000 in counterfeit checks in a three-state area. The scheme involved stealing mail from businesses in Missouri, Arkansas and Oklahoma in order to create counterfeit business checks, then using stolen identities to cash the counterfeit checks. 34 year old Derrick Haggard was found guilty on all 27 counts and will face up to 30 years in prison at a future sentencing hearing. Seven other co-defendants have pleaded guilty in the case which was investigated by multiple agencies including the Branson and Hollister police departments.
Jack Harris Named Assistant Principal of Branson Junior High The Branson School District announced that Jack Harris, currently a history instructor at Branson Junior High School, has been selected as the assistant principal for the remainder of the 2011-2012 school year. Harris replaces Brad Dolloff who leaves the position January 31 to become the headmaster at the new School of the Ozarks. Harris has been with the Branson district for six years as a classroom instructor. He is also a student council sponsor and football and track coach. Harris earned a bachelor’s degree from College of the Ozarks and a graduate degree from Lindenwood University.
January 13, 2012
Branson Fire Department to Get Mobile Computer System Branson Aldermen have approved the purchase of a mobile records management computer system for the Fire Department. The system will provide mobile access to the National Fire Incident Reporting System as well as fire investigation reports, fire hydrant records, equipment and inventory records and more. This will provide a consistent records system in all fire station computers as well as seven rugged toughbook computers for mobile use. The system will also allow for sharing of records with the City of Branson Police Department and the Taney County Sheriff’s Department.
Taney County Fire Departments Collaborate on Training Forsyth Mayor Ron Potter was in attendance at the last Branson City Council meeting to thank the Branson Fire Department and Chief Ted Martin for their cooperation and leadership with an inter-agency training held this month. All four fire departments in Taney County collaborated on an entry-level certification class for new firemen. Mayor Potter expressed his enthusiasm that by working together they could “save money and do a better job for our citizens.”
North Ark College Board Approves $3.5 Million in Construction Bonds The North Arkansas College Board of Trustees has voted to authorize college officials to proceed with the study for a new science addition and student success center and apply for construction bonds not to exceed $3.5 million. The Board action was in response to a December meeting where college president Jackie Elliott explained her plan to increase and modernize the college’s science labs and create a student success center in the area currently housing the library. The timeline presented to the Board showed the construction projects would be almost a year out.
Debbie Corbin Receives Missouri State Thespian Service Award, Future Awards to be Renamed in Her Honor The Missouri State Thespian Service Award was presented to Branson High School drama instructor Debbie Corbin at the closing ceremonies of the annual conference held at Missouri State University. The award was presented to Corbin on behalf of her contributions to the local thespian troupe and the Missouri State Thespian organization through her support and promotion of educational theatre. In addition to selecting Corbin to receive the Service Award, the Missouri State Thespian Board renamed the award in her honor. All future recipients will be awarded The Debbie Corbin Service Award.
Dixie Stampede Names Kamber Sperle Group Sales Manager The Dixie Stampede marketing department announced that Kamber Sperle has accepted the position of group sales manager. Sperle has been with Dixie for eight years as a performer, trick rider, aerialist, server and marketing assistant. Her new responsibilities include affinity groups, convention and conference, and tour and travel markets.
Auditions for Branson’s Annual Gong Show to be Held January 23 Auditions for Branson’s Annual Gong Show are scheduled for Monday, January 23 from 5-8 p.m. at the Senior Center located at 201 Compton Drive. The event was originated to help the Branson Senior Center maintain its Homebound Meal Program. Bogie Bohinc, Gong Show producer, said he is looking for dancers, singers, comedians, magicians and “other wild, wacky, weird or actually talented people” to perform for this family friendly event. There will be a second audition on January 30 if contestant slots are not totally filled up at the first audition. The actual show is on February 22 at the Hamner Barber Theater. Tickets can be purchased in advance by calling 417-335-4801.
January 12, 2012
Jonas Arjes Named Director of Business Development for Taney County Business Development Partnership Longtime Taney County resident Jonas Arjes has accepted the position of Director of Business Development for the recently organized Taney County Business Development Partnership. His responsibilities include new business development and retention and expansion of existing business within Taney County. Arjes has been a Corporate Sales Executive with Akers and Arney Insurance since 2007. Financial support for the partnership has been committed by the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, Taney County, Kirbyville and Merriam Woods.
One Killed, Four Injured in Three Vehicle Accident Near Bergman A Harrison woman was killed and four Lead Hill residents were injured during a three vehicle accident Wednesday morning. 80 year old Lois Cecil was stopped on Highway 7 near Bergman, waiting to make a left turn. Her car was hit from behind by an SUV driven by 21 year old Anthony Johnson of Lead Hill. That collision caused the Cecil vehicle to cross the road centerline where it hit a Chevy Suburban head-on. The four injured occupants of the Suburban were the driver, 19 year old Calvin Summers and passengers 21 year old Shawn Helfrich, 11 year old Holden Mitchell and 18 year old Briana Franklin.
Hollister Man Charged with Statutory Sodomy 53 year old Kyle Wayne Larue of Hollister has been charged with 2nd Degree Statutory Sodomy. The charge relates to an alleged incident of a 15 year old male being sexually accosted in the bathroom of a store in Branson West. The investigation which led to Larue at a Hollister residence involved reviewing video surveillance from several stores, a photo of the suspect, a cell phone number and the cooperation of the cell phone provider. Larue was taken to the Stone County jail where he posted a $15,000 bond, was released and is now waiting for a court date.
Branson Aldermen Approve Zoning for Stillwood Subdivision Branson Aldermen have approved the R-2 Two-Family Dwelling District zoning for 15 properties in the Stillwood Subdivision. The properties, located along the north side of Bird Road and south of the Stone Valley Subdivision, were annexed into the city of Branson in December. This board action follows the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Reeds Spring High School to Get 700 Thinkpads Next Year Reeds Spring School District officials are planning to order about 700 Lenovo Thinkpad computers. One will be given to each high school student and their teachers. They will be given to the students about this time next year. The Thinkpad screen can rotate to lay over the keyboard so it can be used as a tablet. Students can draw on the screen with a stylus or type with the keyboard. The money for the $1,000 each Thinkpads will come from a capital improvement fund.
Missouri Treasurers Office Provided Record Number of Low-Interest Loans to Small Businesses and Farms in 2011 The Missouri Treasurers office helped to provide a record number of low-interest loans to businesses last year. Under the Missouri Linked Deposit Program, the state deposits money into banks at low interest rates. The banks then use that money to make low-interest loans to businesses with fewer than 100 employees. The Treasurer’s office approved $410 million dollars of deposits last year which resulted in low-interest loans to 1,400 small businesses and farms. The low-interest loans saved about $7.2 million in interest for the companies receiving the loans.
January 11, 2012
Three Injured in Two Vehicle Fiery Crash on Hwy 248 A husband and wife from Walnut Shade were seriously injured Tuesday evening in a two vehicle head on collision. 38 year old Lance Taylor and 41 year old Sandy Taylor were taken to St John’s Hospital in Springfield after the 6:15 p.m. accident. Their car was hit by a Jeep Liberty which crossed the road centerline. The Taylor car caught fire in the accident but the couple was able to escape the vehicle. The Jeep was driven by 20 year old Sarah Mifflin of Forsyth who received minor injuries. The accident occurred on Highway 248, five miles east of Reeds Spring.
Two Injured in Two Vehicle Head-on Collision Just minor injuries for two people in a head on crash Tuesday. A van driven by 31 year old Brian Donato of Hollister hit another van driven by 44 year old Jay Christensen of Branson. A passenger in each of the vans was taken to Skaggs Regional Medical Center for treatment. They are 34 year old Venus Donato of Hollister and 36 year old Carisue Christensen of Branson. The 4:40 p.m. accident occurred on Olympus Drive, two miles northeast of Branson.
Attempt to be Helpful Results in Two Car Collision A two car crash in Harrison is another reminder of the need to use extra care when driving into traffic without being able to see all lanes of traffic. 70 year old Jayne Little of Harrison was leaving a store parking lot when someone attempting to be helpful motioned for her to pull into traffic. In the process, she drove into the path of a car driven 33 year old Rebecca Owrey, also of Harrison. Little and her passenger, Melody Russell, were treated for minor injuries at North Arkansas Regional Medical Center.
Two Harrison Residents Arrested for Backseat Meth Lab Two Harrison residents have been charged with criminal attempt to manufacture methamphetamine. Arkansas State Police officers were conducting a Sobriety Check Point in Boone County when 33 year old Marsha Glover of Harrison was stopped. She had a suspended driver’s license and her passenger, 29 year old William Bullock of Harrison had outstanding warrants. While officers were inspecting the vehicle, they located what appeared to be components of a meth lab on the back floorboard. Bullock fled from officers on foot but was apprehended after a short chase. Both are being held in the Boone County Jail.
Bus. 65 Bridge Over Roark Creek to be Closed Next Week for Evaluation The bridge over Roark Creek near the roundabout at Skaggs will be closed for 4 days next week for evaluation. The bridge was checked last year but this study will provide more detail on any problems. A final report is expected this summer. The report should give city leaders the information they need to determine options and costs for repairs. The bridge will be closed in both directions from 7 a.m. to dusk, January 17th through the 20th. Drivers should use Branson Landing Boulevard or Highway 65 as alternate routes.
Extreme Makeover Finale to Feature Tornado Ravaged Joplin This Friday is the series finale of ABC television’s "Extreme Makeover, Home Edition." The program features tornado ravaged Joplin where volunteers built seven houses in seven days. Convoy of Hope from Springfield was actively involved in the Joplin recovery including the record-breaking build. In total, Convoy has distributed over 2.6 million pounds of supplies and Convoy volunteers have logged over 15,000 hours in the Joplin recovery. Extreme Makeover will broadcast this Friday at 7 p.m. on the ABC network.
January 10, 2012
Two Branson Teenagers Injured in One Car Accident Two Branson teenagers were injured in a one car accident at about 7:20 Monday night on Highway 65, eight miles north of Branson. The Highway Patrol reported that a southbound car driven by 18 year old Gary Macagni of Branson skidded off the right side of the roadway and struck a rock embankment. 18 year old passenger Crystal Coale and 17 year old passenger Summer Sexson both suffered minor injuries and were taken to Skaggs Regional Medical Center for treatment.
Voter Registration Required for Missouri Primary/Caucus Missouri Secretary of State Robin Carnahan is reminding Missourians that tomorrow is the last day to register to vote in order to participate in the February 7 presidential primary. However, as was reported last September, the Missouri GOP will not use the results of the state’s primary but instead will hold a caucus on March 17 to pick its candidate for president. This is due to an agreement between the Republican and Democratic national committees which mandates that most states hold their primaries no earlier than March or lose half their delegates. The Missouri GOP was unsuccessful in its attempts to move the primary to a later date. Those who wish to participate in the March 17 caucus will still need to be registered to vote. Visit GoVoteMissouri.com for more information about voter registration.
Boone County TEA Party to Sponsor Scholarship Award The members of the Boone County, Arkansas TEA Party announced that they will be sponsoring their first scholarship award in 2012. The $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to any high school senior in good standing currently enrolled in public, private or home schooling within Boone County. This will be an essay competition focused on the topic of the Boston Tea Party of 1773 and its relevance to today’s Tea Party Movement. The scholarship can be used for any higher education program of the student’s choice. For more information, visit BooneCountyTeaParty.com. Applications must be received no later than January 23, with an essay entry deadline of no later than March 1.
White River Valley Historical Society Announces Exhibits for 2012 Members of the White River Valley Historical Society have announced plans for five original exhibits in the Society’s museum for 2012. The themes of the exhibits for the year will focus on the topics of “Marriage and Courtship”, “Native Americans”, “Agricultural Roots”, “Forgotten Towns”, and “Commerce”. The first exhibit of the year, tentatively titled “Ozark Romance”, will be completed in February. Vintage wedding clothing, pictures, and other memorabilia that might tie into this theme are needed, and details of lending the items can be discussed by calling 417-546-2210.
Deward and Kate (Wallace) Palmer were married in 1904 at Walnut Shade. This photo, along with many others, will be included in the Historical Society's upcoming exhibit on Ozark Romance.
C of O to Host Free Character Workshop with Dr. Hal Urban this Thursday College of the Ozarks and the First PLACE! character initiative invite the community to hear from Dr. Hal Urban this Thursday from 3:30-5 p.m. in the Royal Oak Forum of The Keeter Center. Dr. Urban will speak on what he describes as “old-fashioned goodness” and his message will focus on what good character means and a time-honored formula for living a life of meaning, friendship and joy. This workshop is free of charge and open to the public. To register, call (417) 690-2242.
January 9, 2012
Factory Merchants Branson is Now Property of City The Factory Merchants Branson shopping center is now the property of the City of Branson, with the closing occurring last Friday. As part of the agreement with the city, Simon Property Group will continue to operate the mall for another six months. It is expected that all retail operations will have ceased by the end of this six month period. Simon Property and the City of Branson are working with individual stores to relocate to other sites in Branson. The city has not announced official plans for the redevelopment of the site and will continue to seek community input and professional assistance before moving forward.
Russell Jackson Announces Candidacy for Taney County Assessor Russell Jackson, a certified residential appraiser and lifelong resident of Taney County, announced that he will be a Republican candidate for Taney County assessor on the April 3 ballot. His goals for the assessor’s office include: establishing and maintaining fair and equitable assessments, striving for office efficiency and providing courteous service. Jackson presently owns and operates Jackson Appraisal Services LLC, a company he began five years ago. He is also currently vice-chairman for Rural Water District #2 and a director of White River Valley Electric Cooperative.
Utah Man Pleads Guilty, Sentenced for Murder of Ex-girlfriend A Utah man has been sentenced to 15-years to life in prison after admitting that he killed his ex-girlfriend and transported her body to Branson in April 2008. Last month, 51-year-old Michael Doyel also pled guilty to a federal kidnapping charge in the same case and received 30-years in prison for that crime. Doyel said he strangled Deborah Jones after she ended their relationship. Investigators found Jones’ body in a storage bin in the backseat of Doyel’s car outside of a Branson motel.
Romano's Macaroni Grill at Branson Landing Closes The Romano's Macaroni Grill located at Branson Landing closed last Friday for the final time due to a lack of customers. The Italian eatery opened at Branson Landing in 2008. The restaurant’s employees will be offered jobs at the Macaroni Grill located on East Battlefield Road in Springfield.
Reeds Spring High to Receive $100 for Seat Belt Video Reeds Spring High School has been recognized in the annual Battle of the Belt Challenge, a high school competition to increase seat belt use among teens. Reeds Spring won a southwest region Honorable Mention for its 30-second video, "Seat Belt Check." The video was put together by senior Dakota Shoemaker and was one of six entries submitted from a video production class taught by Aimee Mallard. Reeds Spring High School will receive $100 from the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety.
Salvation Army Seeking Help in Reaching Goal by End of January The Ozark Area Salvation Army is still seeking help in reaching its 2011 Tree of Lights fundraising goal by the end of January. Currently, The Salvation Army is at about 87% of its $1,000,000 fundraising goal and needs to get within 5% if its goal to avoid undergoing line-item budget revisions. The funds raised allow The Salvation Army to help Taney, Stone, Christian and Greene county residents through a variety of assistance programs and services. For more information about donating, call (417) 862-5509 or visit OnlineRedKettle.com/TSAOzarksAreaCoordination. ________________
Stone County Clerk Files Lawsuit Against County in Connection with Accident Last Year
Two Stone County Men Arrested for Stealing Items from Outbuilding
Taney County Agencies Conduct Virtual Aircraft Emergency Drill
Ralph Foster Museum to Host Area Appreciation February 1-11
Mayor Raeanne Presley Appointed to National League of Cities Committee
Josh McDowell to Speak at First Baptist Branson this Wednesday
Skaggs Announces Leadership Changes in Nursing Staff
Roy W. Slusher Foundation Awards $100,000 to Area Nonprofits
Southern Stone County Firefighters Battled Three Brush Fires Tuesday Rainfall has provided needed relief from extremely dry conditions here in the Ozarks. The Southern Stone County Fire Protection District fought three separate brush fires on Tuesday. All the fires were less than two acres in size and were extinguished before buildings were damaged. The fires were on Y Highway, H Highway and near Cape Fair.
Construction Phase of New Dewey Short Visitor Center Nearing Completion The construction phase of the new Dewey Short Visitor Center is nearing completion. Inside work continues, including building a rock bluff and a cascading waterfall. Exhibits are expected to start arriving late next month with placement beginning in March. The Ozarks Rivers Heritage Foundation is making arrangements for the installation of innovative fixtures in the new Discovery Gift Shop. A date for the ribbon cutting ceremony is yet to be announced.
Medieval Fortress in Arkansas Closed, Looking for Investors Due to a lack of funds, construction has stopped on the Ozark Medieval Fortress tourist attraction located between Lead Hill and Omaha, Arkansas. The castle will be closed this year as attempts are made to find investors to continue the project. Construction on the Medieval Fortress began in 2009 and was scheduled to take 20 years to complete using 13th century tools and building techniques.
Area St. John's Health Facilities to Change Names to Mercy Sisters of Mercy Health System announced that it will be changing the names of all of its hospitals and clinics in seven states to one name, Mercy, over the next year to avoid confusion with patients. Moving forward, all Mercy facilities will share a consistent name and logo. The changes begin January 31 when several facilities across the Ozarks will transition to the Mercy name, including St. John’s hospitals in Springfield, Joplin, Cassville and Berryville, as well as St. John’s clinics across the area.
Fire Destroys Home Near Lampe this Morning The Southern Stone County Fire Protection District responded to a house fire at about 5:20 this morning on Sun Valley Lane off Highway 86 near Lampe. The first unit on scene found a large two story residential structure well involved in flames with heavy fire showing through the roof. Eighteen firefighters including some from Central Crossing spent just over four hours on the scene. The home was a total loss but there were no injuries. The home was occupied by a family of three. One family member had taken another to work and upon returning they found the home on fire. The cause was determined to be a wood burning stove. The American Red Cross was called to assist with the family’s needs.
Southwest Airlines Commits to Serving Branson Airport Southwest Airlines reported last Friday that it has made the decision to serve the Branson Airport by converting AirTran Airways at Branson to Southwest Airlines operations over time. Of the 69 cities AirTran served when Southwest acquired it on May 2, 2011, 53 cities, including Branson, are planned to convert to full Southwest Airlines service. AirTran flights at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport will be the first to fully convert to Southwest Airlines service on August 12 this year. Southwest and AirTran will announce future airport conversions as those specific plans are lined up.
Wintering Bald Eagle Population Spikes at Table Rock Lake Each year in January, park rangers take a day to survey the bald eagle population at Table Rock Lake. This year a total of 136 bald eagles, 113 adults plus 23 juveniles, were counted in three count zones. This number is a marked increase over the survey conducted in 2011 when 43 bald eagles were counted, 37 adults plus 6 juveniles. Bald eagles nest at Table Rock Lake during winter months and can often be seen flying or perched in trees near the lake.
Dr. Gary Smalley to Speak at College of the Ozarks Monday Evening Dr. Gary Smalley will speak at College of the Ozarks Monday evening. He will talk about his success as an author of books on relationships. Smalley is founder and president of the Smalley Relationship Center which is based in Branson. The ministry provides relationship coaching, nation-wide conferences, books, videos and small group curriculum. The convocation in Jones auditorium starts at 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Students receive priority seating.
Jeff Justus to Run for State Representative of Newly Created 156th District Jeff Justus, owner of L & J Plumbing, plans to file for State Representative for the newly created 156th District. The District covers Branson, Hollister and a portion of Taney County east to Kirbyville, south to the state line and north to the county line. Previously Branson and Hollister were in the 62nd District which included part of Stone County. Justus plans to file on the republican ticket on February 28th, the first date for filing. He told KLFC that the time is right to run for office and his family is supportive of the effort.
Warming Light in Dog House Causes Mobile Home Fire Near Lampe A single wide mobile home in Stone County was destroyed by fire late Monday morning. The home was occupied by a mother and her son but they were not home at the time. The structure was located off Ross Lane near Lampe. High winds spread the fire into a portion of the woods near the home. A warming light in a dog house was determined to be the cause. The dog escaped without injury but another dog inside the mobile home was never located. The Red Cross was contacted to assist the family. 17 firefighters were on the scene for over two hours. No injuries were reported.
Children Playing with Lighter Cause Fire in Hollister Two children playing with a lighter caused a fire Saturday afternoon on Matthew Lane in Hollister that started in a shed and spread to the home causing major damage to the home. Western Taney County Firefighters responded to the fire just before 3 p.m. Twenty firefighters brought the flames under control in about an hour and remained on the scene until about 5 p.m. The family lost most everything but got out of the house before it caught fire. The two children reported the fire to a parent just after they accidentally started the fire wile playing with a lighter in the shed. Fire officials ask that parents remind their children of the dangers of playing with fire.
Jack Harris Named Assistant Principal of Branson Junior High The Branson School District announced that Jack Harris, currently a history instructor at Branson Junior High School, has been selected as the assistant principal for the remainder of the 2011-2012 school year. Harris replaces Brad Dolloff who leaves the position January 31 to become the headmaster at the new School of the Ozarks. Harris has been with the Branson district for six years as a classroom instructor. He is also a student council sponsor and football and track coach. Harris earned a bachelor’s degree from College of the Ozarks and a graduate degree from Lindenwood University.
Debbie Corbin Receives Missouri State Thespian Service Award, Future Awards to be Renamed in Her Honor The Missouri State Thespian Service Award was presented to Branson High School drama instructor Debbie Corbin at the closing ceremonies of the annual conference held at Missouri State University. The award was presented to Corbin on behalf of her contributions to the local thespian troupe and the Missouri State Thespian organization through her support and promotion of educational theatre. In addition to selecting Corbin to receive the Service Award, the Missouri State Thespian Board renamed the award in her honor. All future recipients will be awarded The Debbie Corbin Service Award.
Auditions for Branson’s Annual Gong Show to be Held January 23 Auditions for Branson’s Annual Gong Show are scheduled for Monday, January 23 from 5-8 p.m. at the Senior Center located at 201 Compton Drive. The event was originated to help the Branson Senior Center maintain its Homebound Meal Program. Bogie Bohinc, Gong Show producer, said he is looking for dancers, singers, comedians, magicians and “other wild, wacky, weird or actually talented people” to perform for this family friendly event. There will be a second audition on January 30 if contestant slots are not totally filled up at the first audition. The actual show is on February 22 at the Hamner Barber Theater. Tickets can be purchased in advance by calling 417-335-4801.
Jonas Arjes Named Director of Business Development for Taney County Business Development Partnership Longtime Taney County resident Jonas Arjes has accepted the position of Director of Business Development for the recently organized Taney County Business Development Partnership. His responsibilities include new business development and retention and expansion of existing business within Taney County. Arjes has been a Corporate Sales Executive with Akers and Arney Insurance since 2007. Financial support for the partnership has been committed by the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, Taney County, Kirbyville and Merriam Woods.
Hollister Man Charged with Statutory Sodomy 53 year old Kyle Wayne Larue of Hollister has been charged with 2nd Degree Statutory Sodomy. The charge relates to an alleged incident of a 15 year old male being sexually accosted in the bathroom of a store in Branson West. The investigation which led to Larue at a Hollister residence involved reviewing video surveillance from several stores, a photo of the suspect, a cell phone number and the cooperation of the cell phone provider. Larue was taken to the Stone County jail where he posted a $15,000 bond, was released and is now waiting for a court date.
Three Injured in Two Vehicle Fiery Crash on Hwy 248 A husband and wife from Walnut Shade were seriously injured Tuesday evening in a two vehicle head on collision. 38 year old Lance Taylor and 41 year old Sandy Taylor were taken to St John’s Hospital in Springfield after the 6:15 p.m. accident. Their car was hit by a Jeep Liberty which crossed the road centerline. The Taylor car caught fire in the accident but the couple was able to escape the vehicle. The Jeep was driven by 20 year old Sarah Mifflin of Forsyth who received minor injuries. The accident occurred on Highway 248, five miles east of Reeds Spring.
Two Harrison Residents Arrested for Backseat Meth Lab Two Harrison residents have been charged with criminal attempt to manufacture methamphetamine. Arkansas State Police officers were conducting a Sobriety Check Point in Boone County when 33 year old Marsha Glover of Harrison was stopped. She had a suspended driver’s license and her passenger, 29 year old William Bullock of Harrison had outstanding warrants. While officers were inspecting the vehicle, they located what appeared to be components of a meth lab on the back floorboard. Bullock fled from officers on foot but was apprehended after a short chase. Both are being held in the Boone County Jail.
Bus. 65 Bridge Over Roark Creek to be Closed Next Week for Evaluation The bridge over Roark Creek near the roundabout at Skaggs will be closed for 4 days next week for evaluation. The bridge was checked last year but this study will provide more detail on any problems. A final report is expected this summer. The report should give city leaders the information they need to determine options and costs for repairs. The bridge will be closed in both directions from 7 a.m. to dusk, January 17th through the 20th. Drivers should use Branson Landing Boulevard or Highway 65 as alternate routes.
White River Valley Historical Society Announces Exhibits for 2012 Members of the White River Valley Historical Society have announced plans for five original exhibits in the Society’s museum for 2012. The themes of the exhibits for the year will focus on the topics of “Marriage and Courtship”, “Native Americans”, “Agricultural Roots”, “Forgotten Towns”, and “Commerce”. The first exhibit of the year, tentatively titled “Ozark Romance”, will be completed in February. Vintage wedding clothing, pictures, and other memorabilia that might tie into this theme are needed, and details of lending the items can be discussed by calling 417-546-2210.
C of O to Host Free Character Workshop with Dr. Hal Urban this Thursday College of the Ozarks and the First PLACE! character initiative invite the community to hear from Dr. Hal Urban this Thursday from 3:30-5 p.m. in the Royal Oak Forum of The Keeter Center. Dr. Urban will speak on what he describes as “old-fashioned goodness” and his message will focus on what good character means and a time-honored formula for living a life of meaning, friendship and joy. This workshop is free of charge and open to the public. To register, call (417) 690-2242.
Russell Jackson Announces Candidacy for Taney County Assessor Russell Jackson, a certified residential appraiser and lifelong resident of Taney County, announced that he will be a Republican candidate for Taney County assessor on the April 3 ballot. His goals for the assessor’s office include: establishing and maintaining fair and equitable assessments, striving for office efficiency and providing courteous service. Jackson presently owns and operates Jackson Appraisal Services LLC, a company he began five years ago. He is also currently vice-chairman for Rural Water District #2 and a director of White River Valley Electric Cooperative.