Branson Couple turn tragedy into ministry -BY CAROLINE ZILK As Published in the Arkansas Democrat Gazette

Staff Writer RIVER VALLEY and OZARK AREA — Doug and Lori Perser of Branson, Mo., have always been musical, but they said they only began taking their music seriously after they lost their young son, Matthew, in 2004. "We moved to Branson because of that," Doug Perser said. "Next thing you know it, we've got seven CDs out, four songs on the radio." Doug said that while they grieved the death of their son and moved to Branson for a new start, the couple never imagined their music would become so popular. "Doors began to open like crazy," Doug said. And soon, the Persers were able to turn a negative experience - losing their son - into something positive. Six years later, their musical career as Perser Melody Music Ministries is booming. The couple now play a show in Branson and perform throughout the region, including Arkansas. "We seem to have gotten more things in Arkansas than anywhere," Doug said. The couple play a variety of music, including gos-pel and bluegrass. They know about 400 gospel songs. Doug Perser said they often play older hymns because their audience seems to enjoy those the most. Their song titles include "Hillbilly Christian," "She Said Yes" and "Life Inside of Me." The Persers also try to help people along the way. "When we get to an area, we do a lot of stuff for free," Doug said. The couple have played the Russellville Senior Center, theDardanelle Senior Center and events in Saline County for free. "We do everything in memory of our son and try to help many others out in the process," Doug said. "We just take offerings because we don't want to leave anybody out." Saturday, the Persers played a small show in Perryville. Today, they will head west to Dardanelle for an all-day event at the Dardanelle Community Center. Other performers include 2nd Chance of Shirley; Chuck Johnson of Hollister, Mo.; Amazed of Shirley; The Cerces of Springfield, Mo.; and more. The event will also featurefree food. For more information about Perser Melody Music Ministries, visit persermelody.com or call (479) 229-5084.