BRANSON, Mo. — July 22, 2026 — Ozark Star Media today announced a special advertising initiative to support businesses, organizations, and community partners affected by the unexpected closure of the Tri-Lakes newspapers.
The loss of a longstanding local publication has left many advertisers seeking new opportunities to reach residents across the Ozarks. In response, Ozark Star Newspaper is opening its pages to businesses throughout Taney County, Stone County, and the surrounding region with a special introductory advertising program designed to help ensure local businesses continue to connect with local audiences.
Beginning with campaigns launching in September 2026, new advertisers impacted by the closure of the Tri-Lakes newspapers will receive 50% off Ozark Star Newspaper's published advertising rates for their first three months of advertising.
August, Ozark Star Newspaper is launching a Branson office and expanding syndication throughout Taney and Stone Counties—and beyond—providing businesses with a growing multimedia platform that combines print, digital, and broadcast opportunities through Ozark Star Media's expansive regional network.
"We were saddened to learn of the closure of the Tri-Lakes newspapers," said Nick Smith, Chief Executive Officer of Ozark Star Media. "Strong local media is essential to vibrant communities and thriving local businesses. We understand the challenges this creates for advertisers, and we are committed to helping businesses maintain their visibility during this transition with affordable, effective marketing solutions."
The introductory program is available to eligible new advertising clients whose campaigns commence in September 2026.
The announcement comes as Ozark Star Media continues a period of significant growth, including the expansion of its national newsroom to twelve journalists. Smith noted that the company remains eager to welcome additional talent and is encouraging journalists recently affected by industry layoffs to reach out regarding future opportunities. Ozark Star Media has also expanded its weather division with a team of ten meteorologists.
The company recently transitioned 99.5 THE STAR – Branson's #1 Music Station from iHeartRadio syndication platforms to exclusive distribution through TuneIn following listener feedback and a strategic review of its distribution strategy. The move reflects Ozark Star Media's ongoing commitment to enhancing the listener experience while expanding the station's reach throughout the region.
Ozark Star Media is also preparing to unveil its most ambitious live entertainment initiative to date: the inaugural Ozark Star Awards & Festival, scheduled to take place at the Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts in Branson, Missouri, this October. Bringing together celebrated names from the worlds of film, music, fashion, and entertainment, the event promises to be the region's most significant entertainment production. The full talent lineup will be announced in the coming weeks.
"Branson has long been America's entertainment destination," added Smith. "The Ozark Star Awards & Festival has been created to celebrate that legacy while introducing something entirely new. We believe audiences and visitors will experience a truly A-list event unlike anything Branson has seen before."
In addition to print advertising, Ozark Star Media offers integrated marketing campaigns spanning newspaper, digital media, radio broadcasting, live events, and strategic promotional partnerships, enabling businesses to reach audiences throughout the Ozarks and beyond.
Businesses interested in learning more about the September advertising initiative, the Ozark Star Awards and Festival, or the company's integrated marketing opportunities are encouraged to contact Ozark Star Media.
About Ozark Star Media
Ozark Star Media is an independent multimedia company serving the Ozarks through print, digital, radio, live entertainment, and community initiatives. Its portfolio includes Ozark Star Newspaper and 99.5 THE STAR – Branson's #1 Music Station, now exclusively distributed through TuneIn. The company is the producer of the forthcoming Ozark Star Awards & Festival, a new annual celebration of excellence in film, music, fashion, and entertainment in Branson, Missouri.
www.OzarkStarMedia.com | www.OzarkStarAwards.com | www.995TheStar.com