Author Archives: Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

About Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Editor of The Branson Courier

A Seagull’s take on the separation of church and state – The Foundation

Posted on May 16, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Can any reasonably thinking person really believe … Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on A Seagull’s take on the separation of church and state – The Foundation

Is the “Secret Handshake Clique” alive and well?

Posted on May 9, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

“the city council and the city administrator are against this legislation.” Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Is the “Secret Handshake Clique” alive and well?

Illusionist Kirby VanBurch trial date set for July 6, 2004

Posted on May 2, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

…on a felony charge of unlawful use of a weapon and misdemeanor… Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on Illusionist Kirby VanBurch trial date set for July 6, 2004

Once a “feat” always a “feat” but not if the “feater” is named “Fred!”

Posted on May 2, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

…the name he associated with the voice didn’t have a first name of Fred….
Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Once a “feat” always a “feat” but not if the “feater” is named “Fred!”

Do “they” give a hoot about letting the residents of Taney county vote on issues affecting them?

Posted on April 25, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

..interesting concept, letting people vote on issues affecting their county… Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Do “they” give a hoot about letting the residents of Taney county vote on issues affecting them?

World Fest 2004 at Silver Dollar City, April 15-May 23

Posted on April 15, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

World-Fest will present the “best of the best”…with all new productions Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on World Fest 2004 at Silver Dollar City, April 15-May 23

“Yea! Yea! it’s a WOW” of an “Easter,” whoops sorry “Incentive,” egg hunt at Branson Landing!

Posted on April 11, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Branson Landing “incentive truth” is somewhat like an Easter Egg hunt. Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on “Yea! Yea! it’s a WOW” of an “Easter,” whoops sorry “Incentive,” egg hunt at Branson Landing!

“Lemonade” from Highroad “prune” – at what cost?

Posted on April 4, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

“Highroad”…one of the heaviest traveled roads in southewest Miossouri? Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on “Lemonade” from Highroad “prune” – at what cost?

BRANSON SCREAMS FOR COLD STONE CREAMERY ICE CREAM?

Posted on March 31, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

The Branson store is a Ready-to-Own Cold Stone. Continue reading →

Posted in Local News | Comments Off on BRANSON SCREAMS FOR COLD STONE CREAMERY ICE CREAM?

Military Reunion Planners Conference set in Branson April 26-29, 2004

Posted on March 28, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Open to military reunion planners from Continue reading →

Posted in Local News | Comments Off on Military Reunion Planners Conference set in Branson April 26-29, 2004

Based on the public record – shouldn’t Branson city officials be commended?

Posted on March 28, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Not “sainthood” just that we keep things in perspective… Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Based on the public record – shouldn’t Branson city officials be commended?

2004 3 on 3 Street Basketball Tournament in historic downtown Branson – April 24

Posted on March 27, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Top gun or couch potatoe..fun and “level” competition..all ages and skill levels Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on 2004 3 on 3 Street Basketball Tournament in historic downtown Branson – April 24

“Blue light special” On Branson Landing Incentives!

Posted on March 21, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Could make Martha Stewarts problems seem like a “blue light special.” Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on “Blue light special” On Branson Landing Incentives!

Elvis and Hawaii in a “basket”- a best show value?

Posted on March 15, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

David and Alohi Lomond in a unique Hawaiian variety show … Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on Elvis and Hawaii in a “basket”- a best show value?

Branson Board of Alderman Huff puffs “humor?”

Posted on March 14, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Huff wanted to add humor…here’s some potential “belly busters.” Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Branson Board of Alderman Huff puffs “humor?”

Priority, dollars, image, and class – Branson Board of Aldermen style!

Posted on March 7, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

A rare glimpse into their deliberative process … Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Priority, dollars, image, and class – Branson Board of Aldermen style!

One Ward does not a “referendum” make!

Posted on February 29, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Branson Landing will not be affected by Ward 1 results. Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on One Ward does not a “referendum” make!

Is the “Herschend Plan” worth the gamble?

Posted on February 22, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

How anyone who believed that something was a cancer, could sacrifice … Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Is the “Herschend Plan” worth the gamble?

Is Branson gambling by ignoring the expansion of alcohol into its theatres and attractions?

Posted on February 15, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Seagull Musings Column for February 15, 2004 A recent article appearing in the January 30-31 edition of this paper entitled, “Pennel continues push for alcohol resolution,” reported on local resident Chuck Pennel’s continuing quest for the Branson Board of Aldermen … Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Is Branson gambling by ignoring the expansion of alcohol into its theatres and attractions?

Doug Gabriel to host new weekly Branson Idol Show

Posted on February 12, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

a list of the panel of celebrity judges who will critique the performers competing for…personal appearances and a $5,000 grand prize performers.
Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on Doug Gabriel to host new weekly Branson Idol Show

Branafia for one, a “Merry Christmas” for most, and “let’s pray” for all!

Posted on February 2, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Branafia for one, a “Merry Christmas” for most, and “let’s pray” for all! The Ole Seagull had the opportunity to speak at the Jan. 26 meeting of the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce & CVB Board of Directors regarding … Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Branafia for one, a “Merry Christmas” for most, and “let’s pray” for all!

WOW, financially Branson Landing might not be WOW!

Posted on February 1, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Some probably expect another column cautioning about the possibility of..but.. Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on WOW, financially Branson Landing might not be WOW!

Does this add new meaning to C of O’s Five Fold Mission or what?

Posted on January 25, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

College of the Ozarks fires the messenger keeps the problem. Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Does this add new meaning to C of O’s Five Fold Mission or what?

Is the success or failure of Branson Landing linked to its incentive process?

Posted on January 11, 2004 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

“Could the incentive process be prostituted?” Of course it could but… Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Is the success or failure of Branson Landing linked to its incentive process?

XMAS, Happy Holidays, Seasons Greetings or CHRISTmas?

Posted on December 19, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Without CHRIST you can’t even spell CHRISTmas….. Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on XMAS, Happy Holidays, Seasons Greetings or CHRISTmas?

Cost to city taxpayers for chambers private web site “millions” – benefit to the chamber “priceless”

Posted on December 14, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Millions spent and city doesn’t own a website! Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Cost to city taxpayers for chambers private web site “millions” – benefit to the chamber “priceless”

55th Adoration Parade celebrates Christmas

Posted on December 2, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

One of Branson’s favorite and most long running Christmas traditions.. Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on 55th Adoration Parade celebrates Christmas

Without “Giving” There Is No “Thanksgiving”

Posted on November 26, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

To whom are we GIVING “Thanks?” Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Without “Giving” There Is No “Thanksgiving”

Would Truman Apologize For Hiroshima and Nagasaki?

Posted on November 7, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Truman said, “Let there be no mistake about it Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Would Truman Apologize For Hiroshima and Nagasaki?

Branson Area Festival of Lights Parkway lights the way

Posted on November 7, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Featuring thousands of lights and animated displays Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on Branson Area Festival of Lights Parkway lights the way

Billions to rebuild Iraq’s infrastructure while ours is deteriorating – that’s nuts!

Posted on October 12, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

The politicians start wars and the people they serve bleed, die … Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Billions to rebuild Iraq’s infrastructure while ours is deteriorating – that’s nuts!

HCW invests $180 million in what “has been likened to San Antonio’s Riverwalk” or, is it the Titanic?

Posted on September 26, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

…investment in the project…is 180 million” where has it been spent? Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on HCW invests $180 million in what “has been likened to San Antonio’s Riverwalk” or, is it the Titanic?

30th Annual Autumn Daze Craft Festival September 18-21, 2003

Posted on September 10, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Will be held in the heart of Historic downtown Branson… Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on 30th Annual Autumn Daze Craft Festival September 18-21, 2003

The “Odyspin Virus” – Part 2 – Liquor regulation in Branson is what “Odyspin” dictates

Posted on September 7, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

the expansion of the drinking of alcoholic beverages into its theatres …
Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on The “Odyspin Virus” – Part 2 – Liquor regulation in Branson is what “Odyspin” dictates

Seagull Mussings- The “Odyspin Virus” – Part 1 – Silence the public

Posted on August 31, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

In the perfect illustration of “much ado about nothing,” … Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Seagull Mussings- The “Odyspin Virus” – Part 1 – Silence the public

The State Auditor says “thank God” as an Ole Seagull says “God help us!”

Posted on August 24, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

At State Auditor’s Audit Report presentation, on July 30, 2003… Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on The State Auditor says “thank God” as an Ole Seagull says “God help us!”

Is it still the “chamber tax?” Probably so but it doesn’t have to be!

Posted on July 13, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

In its current form it’s still the “Chamber Tax” but that can be changed. Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Is it still the “chamber tax?” Probably so but it doesn’t have to be!

“Remember the Alamo” and celebrate its spirit

Posted on July 6, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

It represents that which is courageous, honorable, and worthy of commitment in the hearts of individuals and nations…. Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on “Remember the Alamo” and celebrate its spirit

VanBurch Preliminary Hearing Postphoned

Posted on July 3, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Preliminary Hearing on DWI, and Assault Charges were …. Continue reading →

Posted in Local News | Comments Off on VanBurch Preliminary Hearing Postphoned

Let’s go to the theatre, grab a beer, and complain about gambling in Rockaway Beach

Posted on June 22, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

What’s the difference between drinking in Branson’s theatres or gambling? Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Let’s go to the theatre, grab a beer, and complain about gambling in Rockaway Beach

It’s “cockamany” – they report what they want to report the way they want to report it

Posted on June 15, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Newspapers report what those who control them want them to…… Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on It’s “cockamany” – they report what they want to report the way they want to report it

If this is “visionary” then being an “againner” can’t be all that bad

Posted on June 8, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

The June 2, 2003, “Ozarks Business” column entitled, “Branson needed its againners for better deals,” written by Springfield News Leader Columnist Paul Flemming, was about “againners” and “visionaries.”The column appears to be based on the unsubstantiated opinions of long time … Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on If this is “visionary” then being an “againner” can’t be all that bad

Will the high road, drinking, and gambling help Branson – Like DUH!

Posted on May 25, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

What could the High Road have to do with gambling and drinking? …… Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Will the high road, drinking, and gambling help Branson – Like DUH!

Mountain Heart & Ricky Skaggs Blue Grass on May 25, 2003

Posted on May 18, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

The blue grass band Mountain Heart will perform… Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on Mountain Heart & Ricky Skaggs Blue Grass on May 25, 2003

Teaching – nobleness in its truest sense

Posted on May 11, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

In terms of a “profession” America’s future does not lie in the hands of Presidents, politicians, lawyers, doctors,…. Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Teaching – nobleness in its truest sense

WOW! A dire warning for Branson Landing?

Posted on May 4, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Could a recent article, about the Wonders of Wildlife Museum … Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on WOW! A dire warning for Branson Landing?

“Y” is Branson “shook” up on the “trail” to a fitness center?

Posted on April 27, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Why would both the City of Branson and the Tri Lakes YMCA are consider building, competing fitness centers? Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on “Y” is Branson “shook” up on the “trail” to a fitness center?

The “Seagull’s View” on “Our View” – the voters have spoken!

Posted on April 13, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Branson voters support Branson Landing 58% to 42%? Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on The “Seagull’s View” on “Our View” – the voters have spoken!

2003 Main Street Hoops 3-on -3 Street Basketball Tournament

Posted on April 13, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Exercise, fun and excitment for all in historic downtown Branson. Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on 2003 Main Street Hoops 3-on -3 Street Basketball Tournament

2003 Branson Fest Concert Schedule

Posted on March 29, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Although subject to change, the following is a schedule of the Super Shows and the Artists that will be appearing as of March 30, 2003. Tuesday, April 8 – 7:00 pm HOSTS:Mike Radford and Ronnie Prophet Lost In The Fifties … Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on 2003 Branson Fest Concert Schedule

Will the Governor “slobber” in his cornflakes too?”

Posted on March 23, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

City/developer STIF indiscretions could cause the Governor to Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Will the Governor “slobber” in his cornflakes too?”

Silver Dollar City Praise Weekend – April 4-6, 2003

Posted on February 24, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

During “Praise Weekend” at Silver Dollar City, visitors will have Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on Silver Dollar City Praise Weekend – April 4-6, 2003

“The buck stops here” – Governor Holden

Posted on February 23, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Is Branson eligible for $23-80 million in State TIF? Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on “The buck stops here” – Governor Holden

STYX releases new album and will appear in Branson

Posted on February 19, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

STYX releases new album and will appear in Branson, at the Grand palace on March 8, 2003 in concert with REO Speedwagon. Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on STYX releases new album and will appear in Branson

11th Annual Branson Fest and Super Show Schedules

Posted on February 14, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

11th annual Branson Fest April 8-12, 2003 at the Welk Theatre Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on 11th Annual Branson Fest and Super Show Schedules

Hot Winter Fun Big Show 2003

Posted on January 23, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Branson’s Hot Winter Fun participants will show case many of their talents as part of the Hot Winter Fun Big show to be held at the Jim Stafford Theatre at 7:00 pm on February 10, 2003 Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on Hot Winter Fun Big Show 2003

Mel Tillis To Perform At Grand Palace in 2003

Posted on January 5, 2003 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Mel Tillis To Perform At Grand Palace in 2003 Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on Mel Tillis To Perform At Grand Palace in 2003

Branson’s 54th Adoration Day Parade on December 8, 2002

Posted on November 17, 2002 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

When the first of over 70 marching bands, drum and bugle teams, parade floats, and other units steps off in the Branson Adoration Parade at approximately 5:30 p.m. on December 8, 2002, it will mark the 54th Anniversary of one of Branson’s favorite Christm Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on Branson’s 54th Adoration Day Parade on December 8, 2002

Bobby Vinton Sells Theatre

Posted on October 15, 2002 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

After a whirlwind negotiation, Bobby Vinton announced on October 22, 2003, that he has sold his “Blue Velvet Theatre to the owners of the “Spirit of the Dance,” an Irish Dance show that has been appearing at the theatre for the past three years. Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on Bobby Vinton Sells Theatre

Branson Lights Up for CHRISTmas 2002

Posted on October 15, 2002 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

The Branson Area Festival of Lights brightens the hills and valleys of the Ozarks from Lake Taneycomo in Branson west to the shores of Table Rock Lake in Kimberly City. Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on Branson Lights Up for CHRISTmas 2002

Delene Show Moves to Hughes Brother Celebrity Theatre

Posted on October 9, 2002 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

The “Delene” Show, formerly at “Planet Branson,” has moved to the Hughes Brothers Celebrity Theatre. Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on Delene Show Moves to Hughes Brother Celebrity Theatre

Doug Gabriel Releases New Album – “Solid Gold Classics”

Posted on September 1, 2002 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

One of Branson’s favorite male vocalists and its male vocalist of the Year, Doug Gabriel has just released a new album entitled “Solid Gold Classics.” Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on Doug Gabriel Releases New Album – “Solid Gold Classics”

Incredible 44 Year Osmond Entertainment Experience Continues

Posted on August 9, 2002 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

The incredible 44 year career of the Osmond Brothers continues. After nine years of performing in their own theatre in Branson, three of the Osmond Brothers, Jay, Wayne, and Merrill, will be performing a morning show at the Country Tonite Theatre starting Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on Incredible 44 Year Osmond Entertainment Experience Continues

Americas “nobleness” – Her Teachers

Posted on August 8, 2002 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

America’s future does not lie in the hands of Presidents, politicians,… Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Americas “nobleness” – Her Teachers

Table Rock Dam and Lake – Keys to Branson’s outdoor activities

Posted on August 8, 2002 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

the lake offers a variety of recreational activities including swimming… Continue reading →

Posted in History/Local Flavor | Comments Off on Table Rock Dam and Lake – Keys to Branson’s outdoor activities

Branson has the Highroad, how can it have traffic congestion problems?

Posted on August 8, 2002 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

What is the millions spent on the Highroad had actually been spent on solving Branson’s traffic problems? Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Branson has the Highroad, how can it have traffic congestion problems?

Abide these nine, but the greatest of these is “responsibility”

Posted on August 8, 2002 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Responsibility, taking ownership of what you say and do, is not a matter of choice. Continue reading →

Posted in Editorials | Comments Off on Abide these nine, but the greatest of these is “responsibility”

A special experience fly fishing Branson’s Lake Taneycomo

Posted on August 8, 2002 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

People flying out west to trout fish probably fly over one of the best, trout fisheries in the country, Branson’s “Lake Taneycomo. A recent article entitled, “Are Branson’s Tri-Lakes the fresh water fishing capital of the world,” … Continue reading →

Posted in Outdoors | Comments Off on A special experience fly fishing Branson’s Lake Taneycomo

Jimmy Osmond Announces New Branson Variety Show For Fall Season

Posted on August 3, 2002 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

Jimmy Osmond will produce and host a new variety show called “Jimmy Osmond’s AMERICAN JUKEBOX SHOW.” The venue will be the “new” American Juke Box Theatre, the “old” Legends In Concerts Theatre.” Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on Jimmy Osmond Announces New Branson Variety Show For Fall Season

“Manna From Heaven” Is An Entertainment Blessing

Posted on July 5, 2002 by Gary Groman aka The Ole Seagull

“Manna From Heaven” is a well told and entertaining comedic fable about the day money “fell” from the sky and how it impacted the lives of those it fell upon. Continue reading →

Posted in Entertainment News | Comments Off on “Manna From Heaven” Is An Entertainment Blessing