The waiting takes it’s own type of courage and fortitude. Alicia Caperton can tell you that. “You hear about it all the time, but you don’t really comprehend it until you go through it,” Caperton said, Her husband, Staff Sergeant Clinton Caperton is serving in Iraq with the U.S. Army Reserves. It is his second tour of duty there.

In Iraq, Caperton serves with the 688th Engineer Mobile Augmentation Company (688 MAC).

“Clinton’s unit looks for IEDs and clears them,” Alicia said. “He runs a robot from a computer screen inside his armored vehicle (called a buffalo), and the robot checks out bombs to determine if Clinton and his crew can dismantle them, or if they need to call in a higher-level bomb squad.”

Her husband’s first tour of duty was in 2003-04, performing essentially the same task, “except they didn’t have robots and Clinton was the driver” Alicia said.

He joined the Army Reserves right out of Branson High School. “It was a big adventure,” Alicia said. “Now that he is married, older, wiser, he finds it more difficult. Before he used to give away his leave time, now he can’t wait to come home.”

The couple live with the reality that after returning home, Clinton could be called back yet again to Iraq. Still, facing that possibility, Alicia said that, “Clinton loves his job and he’s very close to the men he serves with, he’s very much a military man. He’s very proud to have served his country.”

Originally from Colorado Springs, Colo., Alicia went to school at College of the Ozarks. After a stint with Dixie Stampede in Orlando, she played the heroine in The Shepherd of the Hills outdoor production. Clinton who had just returned from his first tour of duty in Iraq acted opposite her as the play’s lead character Young Matt. The two onstage romantic leads fell in love for real and married in 2005 at Shepherd of the Hills, in “a beautiful outdoor ceremony.”

Alicia presently works as a lead animal handler at Sight and Sound. One week after getting that job and a house, Clinton was called-up for another Iraq tour. “I’m extremely proud and glad he’s serving his country,” Alicia said. Clinton is the kind of soldier that, when you say duty, honor, and all that goes with it, he’s the epitome of it. He takes it seriously, and he’s good at it.

“On the other side, it’s not easy. It’s kind of like going back to being single, without actually being single. All of the little things he took care of, now I have to do it on my own. He’s not there to give me the little hugs and things. And, when your husband is serving overseas you can’t just pick up the phone and call him.

“There are times when all I want is to hug him and hear his voice, and he’s not there,” Alicia said. She has learned ways to cope with missing her husband. “I call family members or another of the wives in the unit. Having my job at Sights and Sounds Theater helps a lot. I stay very busy, remind myself of how proud of him I am and why I love him, and I pray a lot.

“I am different from the other wives. I don’t listen a lot to reports on the news. I don’t dwell on it. I have also partially prepared myself… what if…,” she said. “I don’t let it scare me, though, because I know with him, if he dies, he will have given his life for someone.”

There is some access for the couple to communicate. “This is a new kind of war, so to speak,” Alicia said. “Now we have internet and phone access. Clinton and I can sometimes chat one or two times a week. Five years ago, you couldn’t do this.” She stills keeps the tradition of saving his letters and his voicemails for the children she and Clinton hope to have.

Alicia also relies on the support from her unit’s Family Readiness Group, a command-sponsored organization of family members, volunteers, and soldiers that are associated with Caperton’s unit. She is especially grateful for the support given by other women in the FRG. “You think you know, but until you go through it you may have sympathy but not empathy,” Alicia said. “Hearing what they are going through helps you remember that you’re not going through this alone.

“Family and friends are great, but it’s just not the same. It’s like only half of you is there,” Alicia said.

The Bleu Olive Mediterranean Grille & Bar s a new slant on an old tradition. The Papanika vision was to make the Bleu Olive a reasonably priced, upscale restaurant with some character ambiance and a little panache. A great place to hang out, get dressed up, go and meet friends, enjoy dinner, have a cocktail or two.

Yianni and Sam, both started working in heir family’s restaurant when they were eight years old. Doing prep, busing tables, whatever needed to be done. By thirteen, Sam gravitated toward the kitchen helping his dad prepare meals. When things got too busy, Sam would step aside and let his dad take over. It was the perfect environment for Sam’s talent to flourish. His parents encouraged him to experiment with his culinary creativity. What dish did Sam master first? After a short discussion about baked ziti, beef tenderlion and chicken picatta, the brothers decided, a nice chicken picatta was the winner.

Sam and Yianni’s parents immigrated from Greece, raising their family in Florida, New Jersey and North Carolina. Opening restaurants in all three states, the family still owns two restaurants in Durham. The entire family returns to Greece annually to visit relatives and get inspiration for the restaurants.

Their style of cuisine is contemporary Greek-Mediterranean, meaning a fusion of Greek, Italian, Moroccan, Turkish, and Egyptian influences. Everything on the menu is made fresh at the restaurant. From the Chocolate Raspberry Ganache Torte to the pumpkin cheesecake, all breads, desserts and sauces are made fresh, in house.

Signature dishes Chicken Cordon Bleu Olive and Saganaki Cheese Flambe are already becoming local favorites. Regional farmers deliver some of their bounty right to the Bleu Olive’s door, insuring the freshest produce available. Their menu will have seasonal changes, depending on crop’s availability.

For these two brothers, family comes first. After graduation from the Art Institute of Charlotte, Yianni, put his career on hold to help Sam realize his dream. Sam, and his wife Cleopatra, have a 4-year-old daughter and 2-year-old son. Will the children join the family business? “I’m sure they will, but we’ll let them wait until they’re a little older”, Sam said.

The Bleu Olive is located in the Chappy Mall, 204 N. Commercial, across from Regions Bank

Article printed with permission from Both Sides of the Bridge Magazine.

In attendance were more than 100 Marines who ranged from a 19 year old, just-out-of-boot-camp private to an 87 years-young veteran of the horrific World War II battle on Iwo Jima.

Whether active duty or reservists or long retired, these Marines assembled to reflect upon the proud history and heritage of the Corps and to, once again, experience the inexorable bond that Marines share when in each other’s presence.

Lt Col Oliver North (USMC-ret) delivered an electrifying keynote address which paid tribute to the young men and women whom have made up the backbone of the Marine Corps since its founding.

North said “These brave and courageous Marines, through time, embody the very best of what it means to be an American. Their dedication to mission, duty and service to country, is the spirit by which we have kept ours a free nation. They are true heroes.”

The event, which included a social hour, dinner and a dance, was highlighted by the highly moving Marine Corps Birthday Ceremony.

A large, beautifully decorated ceremonial cake, escorted into the hall by four U.S. Marines, drew everyone’s rapt attention as it made its way to the front of the room. Leading the escorts was Corporal Eddie R. Beesley, who on August 31, 1965 near Chu Lai in Vietnam, was grievously wounded and lost his legs. Corporal Beesley, author and motivational speaker, carried a Non-Commissioned Officer’s Sword and handed it to Major Shannon Johnson, Commanding Officer, Weapons Company, 3d Battalion, 24th Marines, Fourth Marine Division. Maj. Johnson cut the first piece of cake for the guest of honor, Col. North. The second piece was cut for Bert Clayton, the oldest Marine Present, and the third piece was presented to Mr. Clayton who then handed it to the youngest Marine present, a symbolic handing down of the tradition of the Corps to its new members.

Other notable moments included the video greetings from General James T. Conway, 34th and current Commandant of the Marine Corps and the remembrance of the Table of Honor for POWs and MIAs still unaccounted for. The Warrior’s Cross, as depicted by the boots, sandbags, rifle and helmet, were displayed to remember Fallen Marines and to reflect upon the potential sacrifice facing members of the Marine Corps.

Lt. Col. North, who graciously signed hundreds of copies of his newest book, ‘American Heroes: In the Fight Against Radical Islam’, was presented a beautifully hand-crafted knife as a gift from the event sponsors Branson.com and Branson Tourism Center. Lt. Col. North was also told that an American flag has been flying in his honor on Branson’s Avenue of Freedom.

Branson.com and Branson Tourism Center also presented a custom designed, commemorative Challenge Coin (pictured above) to all of the U.S. Marines present.

From a grateful nation- Happy 233rd Birthday United States Marine Corps!

At the press conference Williams said “I have always been a fan of these guys and now I get to see them every day at my theatre. This is a great thing for Branson!”

Bill Medley, who along with long-time Righteous Brothers partner Bobby Hatfield, created “You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling”, a song which has been touted as the most played tune in radio history. Other chart toppers included (You’re My) Soul and Inspiration”, “Rock and Roll Heaven”, “Ebb Tide” and “Unchained Melody”. Teaming with Jennifer Warnes, Medley recorded the mega-hit “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life”.

Often cited as the comedy princes of rock n’ roll, Paul Revere and the Raiders, are best known for their smash hits “Kicks”, “Hungry”, “Good Thing”, and their blockbuster “Indian Reservation”. Fans around the world have dubbed them as one of the favorite live onstage performance groups.

Bill Haleys’s Original Comets have been rocking the world since the early 1950’s when they produced never-to-be-forgotten hits such as “Shake, Rattle and Roll”, “Rock Around the Clock”, and “See You Later Alligator”. Fifty years later, these guys haven’t lost a beat, and it is readily apparent why they are known as one of the early originators of Rock n’ Roll.

Medley shared “We love Branson so much that we’ve bought homes here. The fans are great. And how could it get any better than appearing at Andy Williams’ Moon River Theatre. It’s going to be a fun 2009!”

For tickets or more information call Branson Tourism Center at (800) 785-1550.

* Much less expensive than most states.

Branson Show Tickets :

** 25% of the cost of tickets in Las Vegas or New York

Branson Lodging :

** 75% of the Nation’s average hotel cost

Ozarks Beauty in the Fall:

*** PRICELESS !

* AAA’s Daily Fuel Gauge Report

** Smith Travel Research Report

*** Everyone!

Come to Branson and enjoy scenes like this from The Ozarks National Forest

Photo courtesy of Arkansas Department of Tourism

Pat shared ‘I went into the control room at Studio ‘A’ and there was John Florez, Musical Director D’Arneill Pershing and the recording engineer, Grover Helsley. They were in the middle of recording and I don’t remember if it was my eyes or ears that first made me realize that it was none other than Johnny Mathis in the studio. I was fresh from Nashville and there right in front of me was the man behind ‘Chances Are’ and ‘Wonderful Wonderful.’’

‘After the singing stopped, John told me to go in and introduce myself and sing the back-ups on the song. It turns out that Johnny was doing a cover tune on Neil Sedaka’s hit, Laughter in the Rain, a song that I knew, thank goodness! We were going to double the chorus parts, but Johnny said that it sounded like I could do it by myself just fine. I’d never heard sweeter words in my life. The cut went on the album ‘When Will I See You Again’ released in 1975.’

‘I ended up working with John Florez on several more projects after that trial-by-fire day in Studio ‘A’. I also got to know D’Arneill, who was Johnny’s Musical Arranger and Conductor for many years . It has also been fun to get to know his brother, D’Vaughan Pershing, Andy Williams’ Musical Director in Branson.’

Since that fateful meeting, Pat McManus has gone on to write seven number one hits for artists like The Oak Ridge Boys (American Made) and Reba McEntire (Little Rock) and is still an active writer and producer.

‘Johnny is one of the nicest people in show business, and he always has been’ says Pat. ‘His voice is one-of-a-kind and his talent is a masterpiece. Johnny’s a true American musical treasure.’‘

The incomparable Johnny Mathis will be in concert with the Springfield Symphony Orchestra at the Mansion Theatre Friday and Saturday evening, September 26th and 27th at 8 PM. Call 800-785-1550 for tickets.

_ Top Photo: Courtesy of Station Wave

- Bottom Photo: A cover shot of “When Will I See You Again’ (c) 1975 Columbia Records

Branson Creek Golf Club is managed by Scottsdale, Arizona based Troon Golf®, the world’s largest golf management company with international offices in Australia, Hong Kong, Switzerland, and Dubai. Founded in 1990, Troon Golf overseas operations for more than 200 courses located in 31 states and 31 countries.

Mark Ophoven, Branson Creek Golf Club’s General Manager & Director of Golf shared “The kinds of accolades that we have received through the years from entities in the industry such as Golf Magazine, have helped confirm that our mission to create spectacular golfing experiences at Branson Creek is on target. I am proud of each and every member of our dedicated team at Branson Creek and Troon Golf®.”

The list of awards received by Branson Creek Golf Club is lengthy. It was named by Golf Magazine and Golf Digest as one of the ‘Top 10 New Courses in the Country’ in 2000. In its May 2001 issue, Golf Digest also named Branson Creek Golf Club the ‘Top Public Golf Course in Missouri’. In March 2002, Golfweek named it the ‘#1 Public Course in Missouri’. Golf Digest currently ranks Branson Creek #60 on its list of ‘Top 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses in America.’ Travel and Leisure Golf Magazine said Branson Creek is one of the ‘Top 100 Courses Under $100’ and the ZAGAT Survey named Branson Creek as one of ‘America’s Top Golf Courses’.

Designed by legendary golf course architect Tom Fazio, Branson Creek features a challenging seven thousand yard, Par 71 championship layout, with 5 sets of tees, etched into the magnificent Ozarks landscape with a view second-to-none.

“When you play Branson Creek, the rest of the world disappears. You can’t see the other holes, or houses, or cars- nothing encroaches on your experience. Golfers are entirely immersed in the natural setting of beautiful rolling hills and native trees. Seven holes have water features, including creeks, waterfalls, and two small lakes” Ophoven says. ‘To be able to enjoy high-quality golf like this, just a few miles from the heart of Branson, is an amazing thing.”

Visit www.Branson.com for more information about Golf in Branson.

Can you remember what we’re you doing 35 years ago? Maybe you were in grade school or high school or were off working in the world. And even if you were just a glint in your parent’s eyes, keep reading, a little history never hurt anyone!

It’s been asserted that music has always been a measure of the times. So let me ask you this. Who would you have heard if you’d turned on your car radio back then?

In December 1973 Marvin Gaye, Gladys Knight and Sly & the Family Stone all recorded soulful popular songs. There was Jim Croce, Stevie Wonder and the one-and-only John Lennon. His good Beatle chum Paul McCartney (and Wings) charted a hit that month, as did Helen Reddy and Barbara Streisand. But do you want to know who caught everybody’s ears with a song that just seemed to come out of nowhere?

Well …drum roll, please……. On December 29, 1973 Branson’s very own resident funny man, Jim Stafford, rose to #3 on the Billboard Magazine Music Charts with his runaway hit- ‘Spiders and Snakes.’

Come on, admit it! You remember these classic lyrics:

She said, “I don’t like spiders and snakes
And that ain’t what it takes to love me you fool, you fool
I don’t like spiders and snakes
And that ain’t what it takes to love me
Like I want to be loved by you”

It was a silly coming-of-age song that just happened to go Gold for Jim and put a smile on everyone’s face.

And now, Billboard Magazine once again recognizes ‘Spiders and Snakes’ as #43 on The Billboard Hot 100 Country Songs during the magazine’s First 50 Years.

That innocently provocative song was written by Jim and his good friend, David Bellamy of the Bellamy Brothers. They played together in Florida in a band that also claimed another music legend destined for stardom, Gram Parsons.

‘Spider and Snakes’ was a whimsical retelling of Bellamy’s true life romantic experience growing up in rural Florida. It was produced by singer/songwriter Lobo (yep, just one name) who went on to pen ‘Me and You and a Dog Named Boo’.

Jim continued recording quirky hits such as ‘My Girl Bill’, ‘Wildwood Weed’ and ‘Your Bulldog Drinks Champagne’. He appeared in Clint Eastwood’s movie “Any Which Way You Can”, from which his bovine classic ‘Cow Patti’ was born.

Jim entered into the variety television arena as the host of the Jim Stafford Show on the ABC network in 1975 and then co-hosted “Those Amazing Animals” with Burgess Meredith of Batman fame and Priscilla Presley- of Elvis fame.

Jim also wrote three songs for the Walt Disney animated film, The Fox And The Hound, has performed in Las Vegas and around the nation and done more than we can mention here.

But best of all, here in 2008, you can see Jim Stafford LIVE in his own theatre in Branson. The marquee says ‘Comic Genius at Work’ and guess what? It’s true! Even if you don’t like spiders and snakes, Jim Stafford has what it takes – to get you to laugh out loud! Congratulations, Jim!

Visit www.BransonTourismCenter.com for more information about the Jim Stafford Show.

Spiders and Snakes (c) Jim Stafford / David Bellamy / Sony ATV Harmony

Answers can be found at the bottom of the page. Good Luck!

1. The population of Branson is:
(a) 706 (b) 3552 (c) 7500 (d) 11,100.

2. How many guests visit Branson each year?
(a) 2.1 mil (b) 11 mil. (c) 5.2 mil. (d) 7.9 mil

3. How many miles is it from Springfield, MO to Branson?
(a) 112 mi. (b) 35 mi. (c) 76 mi. (d) 18 mi.

4. What county is Branson in?
(a) Stone (b) Branson (c) Shepherd (d) Taney.

5. Name the three area lakes near Branson.

6. How many theatres are currently operating in Branson?
(a) 52 (b) 23 (c) 76 (d) 40

7. What percentage of visitors come to Branson from more than 300 miles away?
(a) 12% (b) 30% (c) 76% (d) 65%

8. Approximately how many lodging rooms are available in Branson?
(a) 4,000 (b) 18,000 (c) 8,000 (d) 25,000

9. Approximately how many restaurants are there in Branson?
(a) 444 (b) 333 (c) 76 (d) 111

10. What is the name of the river that was dammed to create the area’s three lakes?
(a) Nile (b) Arkansas (c) Ozark (d) White

Thanks for playing- more to come! Let me know how you did!

** Thanks to the City of Branson for supplying the facts and figures!

Answers: 1.(c) 2.(d) 3.(b) 4.(d) 5. Table Rock, Taneycomo, Bull Shoals
6.(a) 7.(d) 8.(b) 9.(a) 10.(d)

Running from early November through the end of December of each year, activities center around two main themes: Branson’s Annual Veterans Homecoming and the area-wide festival, Ozark Mountain Christmas.

But you don’t have to wait until 2009 to experience this internationally acclaimed event!

Branson’s 2008 Veterans Homecoming In 2008, the Veteran’s Day holiday kicks off the season with great fanfare when Branson’s Veterans Homecoming, America’s largest event supporting and honoring the nation’s veterans, takes place November 5-11, 2008. The Homecoming showcases dozens of activities including an exciting opening ceremony, special theatrical shows, numerous military reunions (such as one for the legendary Tuskegee Airmen), a Veteran’s Day Parade, an event to remember our country’s POWs/MIAs, and much more.

New in 2008’s Veterans Homecoming is the 233rd Anniversary of the Founding of the United States Marine Corps. This November 10 event includes a dinner, a dance and the traditional Marine Corps birthday celebration featuring Oliver North (Lt. Col-ret USMC) as the keynote speaker. And of course, popular entertainer Tony Orlando performs his always inspiring show, The Yellow Ribbon Salute.

Ozark Mountain Christmas festivities start early! From November 1 through December 31, visitors are swept away with the enchantment of Christmas! Many of the 100+ Branson shows offer seasonal music favorites, the award winning theme park Silver Dollar City completely transforms itself into a Christmas wonderland and Branson’s Ozark Mountain Christmas Lights blaze brightly along its mile-long path festooned with more than 350 Christmas and holiday light displays. Area shops, restaurants and attractions all join in the fun of Branson’s renowned Ozark Mountain Christmas festival.

Congratulations to Branson for the well deserved recognition from the ABA!