Jason Wert

6 days ago | bransontrilakesnews.com | Jason Wert

A group of young, aspiring chefs were able to meet one of the queens of the culinary world at Branson Landing on Saturday, April 26. The members of Buchanan Intermediate School’s “Cooking Club” were invited for a personal meet and greet with Paula Deen at her restaurant. The students were able to meet Deen, take photos, get autographs and learn a little about cooking from one of the world’s best known celebrity chefs.

6 days ago | bransontrilakesnews.com | Jason Wert

The Branson High School Vocal Music Department saw their students excel at the recent 2025 MSHSAA State Choir Large Ensemble Contest. The competition was held on Thursday, April 17 in Nixa and all three BHS ensembles received “exemplary” ratings for their performances, the highest ratings the students could earn. “I am so proud and honored to stand in front of such amazing people every day,” Vocal Director Jacob Carlew told Branson Tri-Lakes News.

6 days ago | bransontrilakesnews.com | Jason Wert

The Buchanan Elementary Track Club wrapped up their most successful season with 53 students participating in events. The club met from late March through early May working on endurance training, quickness, teamwork and goal setting. In addition to track events like relays, field events included long jump and shot put. The group also hosted track meets for the first time including a special meet with Branson Junior High track athletes.

6 days ago | bransontrilakesnews.com | Jason Wert

A Battalion Chief for an area fire department has been suspended following his being charged with a domestic violence count. Josh Single is facing one count of 3rd Degree Domestic Assault after a March 23, 2025 incident in Hollister. According to court documents, Single is accused of grabbing and holding a victim by the throat while he tried to take their keys and phone. He then allegedly held the victim down by the back of the neck against a bed before releasing the victim.

6 days ago | bransontrilakesnews.com | Jason Wert

The region’s biggest songwriting contest is back for 2025 and looking for America’s next big hit song. The Hooked! Songwriting Contest will be taking place on Saturday, Oct. 4, at 3 p.m. in the Pepsi Legends Theater. Once again, the show will be presented through a partnership between the music duo Prince Ivan and the Nest Concert Venue. The grand prize winner will pocket $1,000 in cash along with other prizes. Entrants to the contest must be 12 years old or older.