Update on Branson

Many have been very kind in asking how we are doing in Branson after a very busy night with tornadoes. I thank you all for your support and wanted to share some photos of our less fortunate neighbors on our street. Our house sustained minor damage and we should have all of the repairs completed in the next month. Many of our close friends will be faced with much more serious problems for as you can see from the photos, much has been lost by many. Fortunately no one was injured even though there were very close calls.

As soon as word was out that Branson had sustained major damage, the City of Joplin, Missouri offered to return the favor of assisting us. This is another example why the United States of American is the greatest country in our world.

Some asked how the theaters were doing and this evening my wife and I drove past the theaters on the strip and were amazed at the amount of damage. Some establishments were heavily damaged while directly across the street, none were affected at all.

This happens to be Branson’s 100th anniversary and knowing the fortitude and pride of this small city, we will rebuild and enjoy a wonderful year in spite of the devastation we have experienced today. Our hearts and prayers are also sent to all who have lost loved ones and homes in Missouri, Illinois and other areas of our country recently.

Bruce was a member of the faculty at the University of Northern Iowa, School of Music in Cedar Falls from 1969 until his retirement in 1999. He has performed with many well-known entertainers such as Bob Hope, Jim Nabors, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme, Anita Bryant, Carman Cavalara, Victor Borgie, the Four Freshman, Blackstone the Magician, Bobby Vinton and John Davidson.