Keynote speaker for the November 12 graduation was Shawn Murphy. Murphy, drawing from his own life journey, encouraged the graduates to “discover their why,” and challenged them to be sure the “why” is always in line with what God wants them to do.

A local food pantry holds an annual holiday fundraiser that gains attention from both area residents and visitors. Christian Action Ministries is the driving force behind Festival of Trees, a truly unique fundraising event that has become one the largest sources of income for the nonprofit in its nine years, Festival of Trees, located at the Branson Landing, is an expansive collection of beautifully decorated Christmas trees, each with its own theme, as well as hand-craft

Lonnie Brown and the Shirley’s Kitchen team want to thank the Forsyth area businesses and individuals, including many of the restaurant’s loyal customers, who stepped up to help provide food for families during the recent government shutdown which delayed SNAP benefits. Brown said nearly $7,000 was raised, which helped provide a grocery store gift card to each family with children participating in the weekend backpack program through the Forsyth schools. In addition, donat

These special events are a wonderful way to “shop local” for your holiday gift-giving and support local artists and crafters. It’s all taking place at the Claybough Plaza Mall, 11016 St. Hwy. 76 in Branson West.

The latest events going on Around Town

Proceeds from the tour and boutique go toward the NFTRL mission of helping local charities and humanitarian projects in Stone and Taney counties.

The term “grassy knoll” originated with United Press International reporter Merriman Smith, who was riding in the motorcade five cars behind the president.

I have had my own experience with Little Petey. Rather, a second-hand experience, through my youngest son, Waylan. We took Waylan on a ghost tour for his sixth birthday.

Crain sang backup for Wayne Newton for many years but says his heart was always with Southern Gospel, so he was happy to join the Presleys in that role.

Harris' book launch included fun activities for children and families, photo opportunities, chance to meet the author and illustrator, and the opportunity to meet one of the characters in some of Harris' books, Papa.

The couple consider themselves deeply blessed to be part of a beautifully blended family, a journey born out of both heartache and hope. A little over a decade ago, Jim faced the profound loss of being widowed, while Melonie navigated the challenges of divorce.

Many churches, businesses and organizations held Trunk or Treat events, often complete with games and activities for the children.

Over the years, McTaggart’s personal experiences have combined with cultural changes he has witnessed to shape his outlook on life, including his faith.

One hundred plus people were in attendance throughout the day. Even though it was a rainy, drizzly day, everyone definitely enjoyed themselves.

The Flagstore is veteran owned and operated, and the Cartwright family is well known for their patriotism and love of country, as well as their outstanding customer service.

A newly formed nonprofit organization is holding a food drive. Leftovers for Locals is hoping to help our neighbors in need this month by providing essential food items. "Right now someone in our community is wondering where their next meal will come from," noted a representative of the organization. "Leftovers for Locals is on a mission to change that." Leftovers for Locals is collecting nonperishable food items to help fill food pantries in Taney and Stone counties a

Events of interest Around Town

The plaque presentation for volunteer Bruce Sisk, himself a veteran, was arranged as a surprise by Garden director Jana Evans and other volunteers with the help of Sisk’s wife, Sharon. Sisk and other family members had arranged for a plaque for an uncle Ralph King, while unbeknownst to Bruce, those family and Garden volunteers decided he deserved one also!

The Lake Taneycomo Elks Lodge #2597 is excited to invite area youth to participate in the Elks Hoop Shoot, a free throw contest for children ages eight to 13. The competition will take place Sunday afternoon, November 16, in the Forsyth School Multi-purpose Gym. Registration and warm-ups open at 1 p.m., with the event starting at 2 p.m. The Elks website, https://www.elks.org/hoopshoot/about.cfm , describes the Hoop Shoot as part of the “grit movement,” which started a few

This year, the Branson Christmas Coalition invites the entire community to participate in a very special kickoff to Ozark Mountain Christmas with the First Lights of Ozark Mountain Christmas & the Community Christmas Tree Lighting on November 1.