Branson Courier

Month: August 2005

  • Winners of Branson’s 18th Annual Olde Time Fiddle Festival

    Branson’s Olde Time Fiddle Festival on Saturday attracted fiddlers from seven states. The winners took home over $4,000 in cash prizes and trophies.


    The Old Time Traditional Style Division winners:


    1st Monte Gaylord, Oolagah, OK; 2nd Bubba Hopkins, Spavinaw, OK; 3rd Justin Branum, Kirkwood, MO; 4th Kyle Link, Grove Springs, MO; 5th Vi Wickaw, Evansville, IN


    Texas Style winners:


    1st Wes Westmoreland, Temple, TX; 2nd Cody Marriott, Ava, MO; 3rd Alita Stoneking, Springfield, MO; 4th Deana Bistodeau, Princeton, MN; 5th Scott Cheek, Lynchburg, MO


    Senior Division (age 60 and over) winners


    1st Earl Garner, Elkhart, TX; 2nd Les Tucker, Woodburn, OR


    Junior Division (age 12 to 15 years) winners:


    1st Rachel Mayanovic, Springfield, MO; 2nd Cara Oliphant, Chanute, KS; 3rd, Hunter Wray, Wimberly, TX; 4th Jackson Herbst, Napoleon, MO; 5th Andrew Romano, Huggins, MO.


    Youth Division (up to age 12) winners:


    1st Taylor Sullivan, Clinton, MO; 2nd Sedra Bistodeau, Princeton, MN; 3rd Jake Duncan, Jenks, OK; 4th Michael Thompson, Rose, OK; 5th Matthew Oliphant, Chanute, KS.


    In the playoff between the winner of the Texas Style and the winner of the Old Time Traditional Style, Monte Gaylord won the trophy.


    The top players were selected for the evening final rounds. In each round, fiddlers were required to play three tunes from memory, a waltz, a hoedown and a tune of choice.


    This was the 18th Annual Old Time Fiddle Contest in Branson, sponsored by the Downtown Branson Main Street Association. The event aims to maintain the traditions of American fiddling and to inspire young musicians who are interested in fiddle music.


    Corporate sponsors for the event were: Dick’s Old Time 5 & 10, Apple Market, Best Western Landing View Inn & Suites, First Community Bank, CenturyTel, Bailey House Bed & Breakfast of Appleton City, Naturegraphics, 2 Fluffy Women Musical Comedy Show, and Branson Daily News.


  • Restaurant Review: Jersey Mike’s Subs at home in Branson

    If the Ole Seagulls recent experience at Branson’s Jersey Mike’s Subs is any indication, they have taken the advice of Peter Cancro, the man who started the tradition that has become know as Jersey Mike’s to heart. That advice is, “We’re only as good as the sandwich that comes across the counter and the smiling face that prepares and serves it.”

    Let’s take the sandwich first. The Ole Seagull ordered their signature sub “The Original, #13 on the menu. It comes in three sizes “Mini” about 4 inches, “Regular” about 7 inches, and “Giant” 14 inches on a choice of breads that are baked fresh each day in the shop. The “Regular” on Rosemary Parmesan Bread sounded great.

    All the meats and cheeses used in their sandwiches are displayed in a deli style display. Each meat or cheese going on the sandwich is taken from the case and hand sliced. In the case “The Original” that is generous portions generous portions of ham, prosciuttini, cappacuolo, Salami, and Pepperoni, and Provolone cheese. You can combine that with your choice of freshly sliced veggies such as onions, tomatoes, lettuce, yes they hand slice their own lettuce, pickles, peppers etc. and condiments.

    Another way is to have it topped “Mikes Way.” Mikes Way is with onions, lettuce, tomatoes, vinegar, oil and their special blend of spices. The Ole Seagull has had of “The Originals” over the past week, Mikes Way and he loved them both. I have also had the Grilled Pastrami Reuben with Swiss Cheese, sauerkraut and thousand island dressing and it was great.

    Another feature is the fact that with their hot “cheese steaks sandwiches,” are actually grilled on a grill and not micro waved or taken out of a dish of hot water or gravy. Don’t eat “red meat,” no problem; grilled chicken can be substituted for the steak on all their “cheese steak” sandwiches.

    Branson’s Jersey Mike’s Subs serves wraps, soup, and salads. In addition any regular sized sub can be made into a wrap or served in a tub, with a fork and knife- without bread. They also have daily specials including the “regular” sub of the day, chips and a drink for about $5.99.

    On both of the occasions that the Ole Seagull was in the restaurant one or both of the owners and operators, Chris and Alison Pfatenhauer were present and actively running the store. From the first step in the store, with its bright clean appearance, to the quality look of their sliced tomatoes and veggies and the enthusiastic, caring, smiling attitude of the staff you can tell that it is a reflection of the commitment of the owners.

    Jersey Mike’s Subs, located at the east end of Vista Plaza, 2005 West State Hwy 76, is open from 11:00 to 9:00 seven days a week. Call ahead for take out at 417-239-3840 or fax in your order at 417-239-3862.

    A great sandwich coming across the counter, in a bright, pleasant and clean environment, that is served by enthusiastic smiling people. Jersey Mike’s Mr. Cancro couldn’t ask for more and neither could an Ole Seagull.

    Originally Published In the Branson Courier on Aug. 29, 2005. It is no longer in business.

  • We’re not in Doodyville any more Toto we’re in Branson Missouri, aren’t we?


    As he napped, the Ole Seagull surely must have smiled as he began to dream and heard the instrumental version of the “Howdy Doody Theme” drifting through the spaces of dream land. It was reminiscent of a simpler, nicer time and place. A time and place where millions of America’s kids spent many an afternoon in “Doodyville” with Howdy Doody, Flub-a-dub, Clarabell Hornblower and its other inhabitants while being entertained and seeing examples of positive character traits such as respect, citizenship, compassion, and cooperation.



    But as the dream continued and the words of the shows theme song were sung it became apparent that this dream was not going to be about a simpler nicer time or anything that anyone would expect to involve positive character traits. Although the music was the same as that of the Howdy Doody Show the lyrics being sung were different:



    It’s Haughty Doody time,


    It’s Haughty Doody time,


    The Mayor and Council too,


    Say Haughty Doo to you.



    Let’s give a rousing sneer,


    ‘Cause Haughty Doody’s here.


    It’s time to annex you,


    So that is what we’ll do!



    Then the Ole Seagull got another clue that the dream was not about Doodyville as he noted the audience and the way they were acting. They were adults not kids and they were obviously upset about something. They kept shouting to Haughty, “Is this an example of the compassion and cooperation that we can expect if you annex us to Goodyville? Why won’t you at least show us the respect of giving us an opportunity to ask questions about the annexation and be heard?” It was then that the Ole Seagull got the shock of his life.



    In the Howdy Doody Show, Howdy was a puppet but in the dream, Haughty, although he looked like Howdy, down to the 48 freckles on his face, wasn’t a puppet. Instead, with his right hand he controlled seven puppets sitting in a row behind a long podium with the word “Goodyville City Council” embossed on the front. Strangely, they all looked the same, each had a name sign in front of them saying the same thing, “Flarabell,” and each had an identical bicycle horn mounted in front of them that had the word “Yes” painted on it.



    With his left hand he controlled a single puppet who was evidently the Goodyville city attorney because in response to the audience’s questions Haughty simply pulled the strings on the puppet and whispered, “Shyst-a-dub, tell them what the city code says in a way that will make this go away.” In response Shyst-a-dub said, “Respect my foot, you can expect this and more when we annex you. In Goodyville what I say the Goodyville Code means is law.” He went on to tell them to get over it because their 15 minutes was up and that there was no way anymore of them would be heard.



    As Shyst-a-dub finished, Haughty worked his right hand. All but one of the Flarabell puppets nodded their heads in agreement, smiled at Haughty, said nothing, and squeezed their bicycle horns repeatedly until Haughty stopped his manipulations.



    As he settled back in his chair, obviously satisfied with the way things were progressing he said, “Now that we have established who is in control let’s move on to the next item.” The sounds of the Flarabell puppet horns again blasted forth in unison from the podium.



    It was at that time that the Ole Seagull woke up with a start and realized, with a sigh of relief, that it was just a dream and that he wasn’t in Goodyville but in Branson, Missouri, America as it should be. Something like that surely couldn’t happen in Branson. Then the phone rang and the caller said, “Did you hear about what the Branson Board of Aldermen did to those who wanted to speak in opposition to the city’s annexation of a large chunk of land at the north edge of town at their meeting on Aug. 22?”



    As the caller explained what had happened, the Ole Seagull thought, “What a strange way for the board of aldermen and the city government of Branson to show its prospective new citizens and businesses the type of respect, compassion, and cooperation they can expect if they vote to be annexed into Branson.” Why would anyone, except a masochist, vote to subject themselves to such treatment?



    The truly sad thing, to an Ole Seagull, is that he personally believes that it broke the hearts of most of the aldermen and Mayor Lou that those wanting to speak were denied the opportunity to do so. But, what’s even sadder is that they sat there and let it happen.


  • Branson Bits: New show, “Ray Charles,”

    The most recent issue of the Branson Lakes Area Flash FAx indicates the following:

    Mardi Gras In Branson!!! 2006 will be held June 8, 9 and 10 at the Ramada Festival Grounds. As a result of the 2005 raffle, the festival raised $3000, which was evenly divided between the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life, Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Imagination Library and Lives Under Construction Boys Ranch. Sponsorship information will be going out shortly. Any business wanting to participate should e-mail Cedric Benoit at cedric@cedricbenoit.com. Local discounts for Taney and Stone counties will once again apply.

    The Branson Variety Theatre is adding the show “Ray Charles; I Can’t Stop Loving You, The Music of Ray Charles Lives On” to their 2006 line up.

    Congratulations! The Red Skelton Estate recently granted the exclusive performance rights of Red Skelton’s material to Tom Mullica, star of RED SKELTON: A Performance Tribute.

    Originally Published In the Branson Courier on Aug. 8, 2005.

  • Branson’s Gas Buster Program expanded and extended through Oct. 31

    The Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce & CVB is responding to ever-increasing gas prices by extending the Gas Buster discount program through October 31, 2005, and by offering visitors up to $50 off show and attraction tickets, lodging, meals and retail purchases when they spend just $20 on gas during their trips to town.



    Ross Summers, president and CEO of the Chamber said, “Branson businesses are working together to help offset the costs of gas so visitors can afford to see and do all the things they would like to do while on vacation.”



    Summers said the Chamber had originally set September 30, 2005 as the cut-off date for the summer program and $40 as the minimum requirement in gas receipts to receive the Gas Buster discount card from one of two Chamber Welcome Centers (Hwy. 65 and Mo. 248, and at Hwy. 65 and Mo. 160).



    “More than 85% of Branson’s visitors drive to town and over one-third come from 300 miles or less, so these changes to the Gas Buster program will help more people, especially our regional neighbors coming for weekend trips,” Summers said.



    On August 17, 2005 the American Automobile Association reported the average price of a regular gallon of gas in the Midwest was $2.52. At that price, the average 15-gallon tank would cost $37.80 to fill.



    In order to receive a Gas Buster Discount Card, visitors should present a valid driver’s license and proof of gas purchases totaling a minimum of $20, incurred within 2 days of arrival, at one of the Chamber’s Welcome Centers.



    Gas Buster discount cards and the list of participating business sponsors will be issued from 8am to 5pm, Mondays through Saturdays and 10am to 4pm on Sundays. For more information, log on to www.explorebranson.com or call 800-214-3661.

  • Character takes First PLACE within our community

    !Character can be defined as “moral or ethical strength” or “the combination of qualities or features that distinguishes one person, group, or thing from another.” It is not a matter of whether or not a person, group or thing is going to have character, they are; it’s just a matter of what type of character they are going to have good, bad, or indifferent.



    Very few, if any, people are born “good” or “bad.” From an individual perspective, character is acquired. It is learned and developed on a daily basis based on environmental factors and the choices that individuals make about how they live their lives and what they fill their minds with.



    Proverbs said it first, “For as he thinks within himself, so he is.” In an Ole Seagulls life this basic truth has evolved into a simple irrefutable master guide line, “We will become what we think we are and that is controlled by what we have placed in our minds.”



    That’s why the Ole Seagull took note as Sue Head from College of the Ozarks and Cindy Raines from White River Electric explained the First PLACE, “Partners, Linking Arms for Character Education,” program at the Jul. 11 meeting of the Branson Board of Aldermen. The simple program uses a combination of our areas schools, the community, and family to fill the minds of our children with positive character traits that can forever change their lives.



    The program is elegant in its operational simplicity. Each month of the school year, the schools will emphasis and intentionally teach one character trait. That trait will be constantly reinforced during the month not only at school but throughout the community as “partners,” and family reinforce the trait by committing to demonstrate one visible action each month that ties into the trait.



    Our areas schools and teachers have been preparing for this program and are committed to it. Our community and families must also do their part so that the traits being taught in school are reinforced throughout the month. The only thing those outside the school have to do is commit to demonstrating one visible action each month that ties into the character trait of the month.



    As an example, the trait of the month for September is, “Respect – treating others with courtesy and honor.” What an impact it could have if that trait was specifically mentioned during Sunday school, in sermons, in newspaper stories or columns, on radio shows, or appeared on various marquees around town. How about banks and utility companies “stuffing” something in the envelopes with the monthly bills about the trait of the month that customers could share with their children or grandchildren? Just think of the impact that a simple hand painted sign or poster or 8 x 11 inch piece of paper with the trait of the month displayed in retail businesses and offices throughout our community could have!



    The neat thing is that the possibilities are endless and require so little, just the commitment to demonstrate one visible action each month that ties into the character trait of the month. Aren’t our community’s children and grandchildren worth the effort?



    From a family perspective it could be as simple as writing the character trait of the month on a piece of paper and putting it on the door of the refrigerator or simply asking the children in the family what the character trait of the month is and what it means to them. Again, simple is good and the possibilities are endless.



    The character traits for each month are as follows: September – Respect – treating others with courtesy and honor; October – Responsibility – taking ownership of what you say and do; November – Citizenship – being loyal to your country; December – Compassion/Kindness – caring for others; January – Commitment – being true to your word; February – Honesty – being truthful in what you say and do; March – Cooperation – working together toward a common goal; April – Perserverance – demonstrating persistent determination; May – Self-discipline – training and control of yourself.



    The Ole Seagulls favorite verse of scripture is, “Whatever is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, of good repute, of excellence, or worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things.” As a community and as individuals, the First Place program provides the opportunity to not only “dwell on these things” but make them a vital part of the lives of our children and grandchildren, ourselves, and the very community that we call home.

  • Should Branson change the name Ozark Mountain Christmas to Ozark Mountain Holidays?

    Should Branson change the name Ozark Mountain Christmas to Ozark Mountain Holidays?



    In the Branson area, one of the busiest times of the year is Ozark Mountain Hanukah. Most can remember a time, not too long ago, when the majority of our businesses ended their season at the end of October. Then along came Ozark Mountain Kwanzaa and the season was extended until the middle of December. Not only was the season extended, but the period between the first of November and the middle of December, known as Ozark Mountain Holidays, became, in terms of economic success, the most important part of the year for a lot of Branson’s, shows, attractions, restaurants, and retail establishments.



    Some might say, “Seagull, you’ve got it confused. It’s not Ozark Mountain Kwanzaa, Hanukah, or Holidays, its Ozark Mountain Christmas.” Is it? From a business and commercial sense, except for the Christmas portion of some shows, where is the evidence that Branson, “America as it should be,” is celebrating Christmas as opposed to some contrived politically correct version of something called “Holidays.”



    As visitors to Branson drive up and down our streets are they more than likely to see the welcome “Merry Christmas” on a business or the words “Happy Holidays” or one of the other politically correct sayings that leaves “Christmas” out. As our visitors interface with the personnel working in Branson’s entertainment, retail, lodging, and food service areas, are they more likely to hear someone say to them “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays?”



    As an example, the Dec. 24, 2004 edition of this paper contained a letter from a lady who, while eating in a local restaurant with her husband, received the greeting of “Happy Holidays,” from their server. When her husband said, “I think you mean ‘Merry Christmas’” she quickly responded, “Oh, we can’t say that unless the customer does.” The person writing the letter ended it by saying, “How sad.”



    To an Ole Seagull it’s sad because it represents the trend in a lot of our area’s businesses and organizations to take the word “Christmas” out of Christmas. If Branson and its businesses are more concerned about being politically correct and not offending anyone by using the word “Christmas” that’s fine, let’s change the name of “Ozarks Mountain Christmas” to “Ozarks Mountain Holidays” and be done with it.



    On the other hand, the Ole Seagull believes that if there was one place in the country that ought to be “Merry Christmas USA” it should be Branson, Missouri. Is not the celebration of the traditional Christmas a part of Americana that is an inherent part of Branson’s history and heritage? Among other things, doesn’t the origin of Branson’s Adoration Day Parade, now going into its 57th year, testify to that fact?



    History and heritage aside, from an economic point of view, doesn’t it make sense for Branson to promote the traditional “Christmas” rather than the politically correct “Happy Holidays?” People can go anywhere for the politically correct “Happy Holidays” but where can they go where “Christmas” is Christmas? From an economic perspective, it’s puzzling how a town like Branson, that markets traditional family values, in terms of its entertainment, could so quickly succumb to the politically correct “Happy Holidays” version of Christmas rather than seize the opportunity to promote the traditional “Merry Christmas” version.



    The good news is that, in January of this year, the Board of Directors of the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce passed a resolution establishing a policy of trying to keep “Christmas” in “Christmas.” The policy encourages the use of the term “Merry Christmas” in lieu of “Happy Holidays” in connection with the Chambers involvement with “Ozark Mountain Christmas” and in other situations where it is the intent of the Chamber to specifically express “Christmas” wishes or greetings to those celebrating the holiday of “Christmas.”



    It’s a first step that, if followed by the City of Branson and other businesses, could put the “Christmas” back into Ozarks Mountain Christmas. One can only wonder what would happen if Branson’s simple message was, “We celebrate the holiday of Christmas, its promise and spirit and would love to have you come, visit, and share them with us?”

  • Major changes to Branson’s Christmas Festival of Lights in 2005

    The Branson Area Festival of Lights (BAFOL) Committee of the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce & CVB is pleased to announce that many of the holiday lighting displays formerly located along Branson Hills Parkway will be set up at multiple locations this season to create an area-wide Festival of Lights Driving Tour.



    Guests visiting during Ozark Mountain Christmas (Nov. 1, 2005 – Jan. 1, 2006) will be able to view these magnificent displays at area businesses and in public places, at no cost, according to Ross Summers, president and CEO of the Chamber.



    The BAFOL Committee has negotiated a 3-year purchase agreement with Universal Concepts, owner of the approximately 200 displays, which will, in turn, make buying or leasing very affordable for Chamber members. Prices will start at around $300 for a small display.



    “The Branson Area Festival of Lights started in 1990 to enrich our visitors’ holiday experiences,” according to David Arney, president and CEO of Akers & Arney Insurance Associates and BAFOL Committee chairman.



    “The drive-through display at Branson Hills was a wonderful addition to the area-wide festival, but we always knew that commercial development would eventually take its place. After exploring other locations for a paid admission drive-through, the committee decided that in order to give visitors the best possible holiday lighting experience, the displays should be located at places where people already go to see lights… and that’s everywhere.” Arney said.



    In March, construction began on the 131-acre Branson Hills Plaza, located just off Branson Hills Parkway on the site where 200 displays were located. The first phase of the new development is scheduled to open in spring of 2006 and will include Target, Home Depot and TJ Maxx.



    In addition to making the displays available to Chamber members for lease or purchase, the BAFOL Committee is working on a new map to be printed in October that will guide visitors along the Festival of Lights Driving Tour and show them where their favorite displays can be seen.



    “So far we’ve gotten a great response from area business owners eager to place displays on their property,” Summers said. “The cost savings we’re able to pass on will help some businesses afford to erect entire scenes made of multiple display units,” he said.



    A few of the scenes available for sale or lease include: 12 Days of Christmas; Santa and his reindeer; sailboat races; a nativity scene; outdoor winter scenes, a gingerbread scene, and Victorian Christmas scenes.



    The BAFOL Committee will again this year erect more than 280 lighted stars on Hwy. 76 and throughout town. Each year, the committee conducts fundraising events to offset the costs of maintaining these stars.



    “We still need donations for these stars,” Arney said. “It’s important to maintain that unified look within our town, and these stars are like a giant Christmas and holiday welcome mat.”



    For information about the Branson Area Festival of Lights, Driving Tour maps or to lease or purchase displays, call the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce at 417-334-4084.

  • Branson’s 18th Annual Olde Time Fiddle Festival

    Fiddlers from all around the Midwest are expected to participate in the 18th Annual Olde Time Fiddle Festival on Saturday, August 27, at the old Branson Elementary School Gymnasium at 6th and Maddux Street.



    “Generally we have 50 to 60 fiddlers participate in this event. Most of them have learned to play by observing a family member – a granddad, uncle, cousin, or grandmother,” said Gayla Roten, Executive Director of the Downtown Branson Main Street Association. “They pass along the tradition and the tunes this way to the next generation. By sponsoring this event, we help generate interest in the tradition, and maybe encourage more young people to learn about this wonderful instrument and the old time fiddle melodies.”



    Divisions are available for all ages: Youth (age 3 to 11), Juniors (age 12 to 15), Seniors (age 65 plus), Texas Style and Old Time Traditional Style. Prize money and trophies valued in excess of $4,000 will be awarded.



    Registration for fiddlers begins at 9:30 a.m. for the Preliminary Rounds. The top five fiddlers in each division will be selected at that time. They will then compete for prizes and trophies in the final rounds beginning at 7:00 p.m.



    The Branson Best Western Landing View Inn & Suites, 403 W. Main Street, is the official host hotel for the Olde Time Fiddle Festival. A jam session for the participants will be at the hotel following the final rounds.



    Bob Hubbard, formerly of the Foggy River Boys, will be the master of ceremonies for the preliminary rounds. Greg Pyron, of KOMC/KRZK Hometown Radio, will be master of ceremonies for the final rounds.



    Festival registration is free for the contestants. Tickets are $5 for adults; children age 12 and under are free. Paid admission provides a wristband ticket for the entire day and evening. This is a no-alcohol event. Coolers are not permitted at the event site. Soft drinks and food will be available.



    Corporate sponsors of the event are: Dick’s Old Time 5 & 10, Apple Market, The Branson Daily News and The Branson Best Western Landing View Inn & Suites. Details about tickets, location and contest rules are available from the Downtown Branson Main Street Association, (417) 334-1548.


    Additional Note: For on line tickets and reservations to other Branson shows and attractions click here.

  • “Isn’t Branson Landing just another Branson shopping mall that is located on the shores of Lake Taneycomo?”

    “Isn’t Branson Landing just another Branson shopping mall that is located on the shores of Lake Taneycomo?”



    In a recent column the Ole Seagull referred to Branson Landing, Branson’s new $420 million master-planned shopping entertainment development, being built on the shores of beautiful Lake Taneycomo in historic downtown Branson. He ventured his opinion that it will “provide Branson with a tourist shopping, dining, and entertainment experience that is fresh, new, exciting and unique.”



    For obvious reasons no one has questioned the “new” aspects of the comment. Some, however, have had a problem with the use of the words “fresh,” “exciting” and “unique.” Why some have actually asked,


    “Isn’t Branson Landing just another Branson shopping mall that is located on the shores of Lake Taneycomo?”



    Yeah sure, and some might consider a 15 pound Rainbow Trout as just another trout, hearing their granddaughter sing a solo as just another voice, and the Shoji Tabuchi Show as just another show. How many shopping malls in Branson have the blend of national brand retail stores, shops, galleries, restaurants, and ambiance that Branson Landing will have?



    May an Ole Seagull suggest that the answer is “none?” In Branson today, to get anywhere near the shopping choices that will be available at Branson Landing, guests park their cars, shop until it’s time to eat, and then get in their cars to go somewhere else to eat. In terms of what Branson currently has to offer, just the combination of the pure shopping experience that Branson Landing will provide and the convenient availability of a variety of restaurants for just about every taste and budget makes Branson Landing fresh, exciting and unique.



    Branson aside, do many shopping malls anywhere have an easily accessible and useable 1.5 mile waterfront boardwalk running its entire length that is integrated into its overall theme? How many are built on over a mile and a half of panoramic water front under the natural backdrop similar to Branson’s beautiful Ozark bluffs?



    An active marina or an integrated waterfront “town square” big enough to accommodate 5,000 people for community and other special events, festivals, shows, etc. is an integrated part of how many shopping malls? How many have the choice of waterfront dining that Branson Landing will have?



    A nightly, synchronized sound, light, fire, and water attraction costing $7.5 million is standard fare at how many shopping malls in the United States? More importantly, is there another shopping mall in all of America, offering all this, plus the depth, variety, and quality of the family entertainment that is “Branson?”



    Like most attractions, shows, shops, etc. that have come to Branson since the Lynch family started operating Marble Cave as a sightseeing attraction in 1894 and the publishing of Harold Bell Wright’s book, “The Shepherd of the Hills,” in 1907, the reason that the Branson Landing is being built in Branson is because of what is already here. Just as those coming before did, Branson Landing will add to what Branson already is as it becomes part of that ever changing entertainment experience that is Branson.



    Branson Landing is a lot of things but one of them isn’t “just another Branson shopping mall that is located on the shores of Lake Taneycomo.” It is a unique shopping entertainment destination, within Branson, that will provide an experience not currently available in Branson or anywhere else, and give people yet another reason to visit Branson for the first time or to come back again and more often.


  • Branson’s newest show- – Act of God

    Welcoming a new show in Branson, Missouri is becoming as common as opening a show on Broadway.Branson is home to more than 100 shows and over 40 theaters, and has been a favorite destination for vacationers nationally and internationally for over a quarter of a century.Many of Branson’s seven million seasonal guests come to the Ozark Mountain resort to see their favorite celebrities croon along side clean country humor.Billboards litter both sides of the 40 mile stretch of highway 65 from Springfield as more smiling faces than you can count compete for your attention.But there’s one show you won’t see unless you’re looking for it.If you see the billboard for this show you won’t see sequin studding, big-hair, Tammy Fay mascara or Osmond smiles, just a simple logo comprised of the name of the show superimposed over a doll-like image of a man lifting his arms in the air.



    Act of God is well disguised as a musical variety show, but it won’t take long to realize there’s more to this production than meets the senses.Act of God is the epitome in Christian fun.It’s music veers slightly from the traditional Branson Southern Gospel mold and features ten memorable original Christian songs ranging in style from Gospel to Country to Broadway, but what’s truly unique about the show are the four separate stories that make up the lion’s share of the production.The first sketch is a Game Show farce where contestants discover the true meaning of their name.Next is a “Carol Burnett style” comedy where members of the Body of Christ discover their significance.A classic drama entitled “The Prisoner’s Task” balances out the slapstick fun as you’re shown all things are possible through God.The last segment consists of a fast paced “Who Done It” where Sherlock Holmes, Moses and Solomon lead us on a search for the root of all evil!The adventure is further illustrated through the use of a functional book that stands over 10 feet high, and, when open, spans 16 feet and serves as the backdrop for each segment.



    “Each story or skit is derived from the Lord’s Prayer.We used characters that today’s audiences could relate to, and kept it light since most people around here are on vacation,” says John Lindsay, writer producer of Act of God.”We hoped to give the Branson audience something more than mere entertainment.With a name like Act of God we’re already being held to a very high level of expectation, and so far no complaints.”Finding the right singers and actors we’re told was an act of God in itself, and, because God was allowed to take part in the casting, these talented singers and actors not only have a true love for Jesus Christ, they also share a level of professionalism you would be lucky to find through a national talent search.



    Act of God’s encouraging stories and songs will do more than entertain and inspire you and your family or church for two hours.It will penetrate the soul and satisfy a hunger you may not have known existed, but the most surprising thing about Act of God will be what you’re able to take with you when you leave.



    It was wonderful how the comedy enhanced the message.Even our thirteen-year-old enjoyed it. – Lori Graham Bakker



    Many shows in Branson are fun and entertaining but “temporary”.Act of God is all that and lasting. – Ozark Christian News



    Performances for Act of God are currently Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at 10:00am, through September 4, 2005, and Tuesdays through Sundays from September 6 through December 10.You can find more information about Act of God online at www.actofgodbranson.com.



    For further information or to purchase tickets on line click here or call 800-590-0155.

  • Shepherd’s Super Summer Cruise Roars into Branson



    The Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Theatre is preparing to once again welcome car enthusiasts from all over the country for the annual Shepherd’s Super Summer Cruise car show. This year’s event will be held August 11-14, 2005.



    2005 marks Shepherd’s 8th year to host a car event, and each year keeps getting bigger and better. “A great deal of planning goes into each year, and we really rely on our exhibitors to give us feedback and suggestions on how to make the car show the premier event in the country. This year we’ve made a couple of exciting changes to the line-up – the midnight cruise has always been the crown jewel on the event, so this year we have a longer cruise route that includes both highway 76 and The Shepherd of the Hills Expressway. The cruise has also been moved from Friday night to Saturday night at midnight. Another very exciting change is the addition of the Ozarks Tire Fryer Burn-Out Competition on Friday and Saturday nights at the Remington Theatre. Everyone is really looking forward to this great new feature,” said Jim Grady, Special Events Director.



    Hundreds of beautiful cars will be on display at The Shepherd of the Hills on Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the Show n’ Shine from 9am to 5pm. There will be entertainment throughout the day from some of Branson’s biggest performers, special vendors, and a chance to meet Enos from the Dukes of Hazzard. The General Lee, as well as Cooter’s tow truck and Enos’s Hazzard County police cruiser will also be on display each day. Admission varies by day; single day and multi-day tickets will be available at the gate. Saturday afternoon at 4:00pm will be the Best of Show Awards Presentation in the Pavilion Theatre. The awards are included with Saturday’s event ticket.



    Friday evening at 10:30pm will be the preliminary round of the Ozark’s Tire Fryer at the Remington Theatre, with the top qualifiers returning on Saturday evening for the championship round, also beginning at 10:30pm. Tickets will be available at the gate. Although special bleachers are being brought in, seating is limited so spectators may wish to bring their own chairs or blankets. Also, parking is limited so anyone staying within walking distance of the Remington Theatre may wish to walk to the event.



    Saturday night the Super Cruise will roll, giving fans a chance to see these gorgeous cars in action. The cruise will begin at hwy 76 and Gretna Road and will head west making a right turn on The Shepherd of the Hills Expressway and running to BT Bones Restaurant, more than doubling the distance from last years event! The cruise is free to the public. Visitors need to be prepared – the police will be blocking off the cruise route by 11:30pm, so pick your spot early. The cruise itself will be a “burn-out free” zone, but any exhibitors wishing to burn-out will be able to pull through the Remington Parking lot to the designated burn-out area.



    The cruise will be broadcast live on Hometown Radio 106.3 KRZK and will be filmed to broadcast later by the Vacation Channel.



    For more information, visit www.supersummercruise.com or call 1-800-653-6288.

  • Hiking Branson’s Lake Taneycomo White River Corridor Trail

    Trail Head White River Corridor Trail

    The Branson area has hiking and walking trails for just about every level of expertise. A favorite of the Ole Seagull because of convenience, suitability for families, and beauty is the White River Corridor Trail on shoreline of Lake Taneycomo. This is the trail for those that don’t want to get too involved with nature to do so and get a close up view one of the Ozarks most beautiful waterways, upper Lake Taneycomo.

    It is ideal for families and those that want to experience nature in a convenient controllable fashion because its one way length of only four tenths of a mile, eight tenths round trip, is easily accessible and permits its users to turn around and go back to the trail head at any point. Although not paved, the trail itself is a wide level trail that, in dry weather, is suitable for wheelchairs and carriages for at least the first tenth of a mile.

    Within the first tenth of a mile hikers will cross a wooden bridge over a discharge creek that provides a beautiful view of its confluence with Lake Taneycomo and a great picture taking opportunity. As is the case all along the trail, this view will change as the lake level rises because of power generation at the dam. This provides for constant changes in the scenery.

    The area that the trail gently winds through is a wild life refuge. On any given day, depending on the time of day, year, and the activity and noise on the trail, hiker can expect to see wildlife and birds such as wild turkeys, Bald Eagles, deer, beaver, mink, muskrat, herons, etc. One thing for sure, from the bridge on, hikers will be conveniently and comfortably surrounded by nature.

    What the Ole Seagull calls, “Lake Taneycomo’s kaleidoscope” is a unique feature that is viewable early on most summer mornings as the sun rises. Just the early morning fog, drifting over Lake Taneycomo provides an ever changing picture worth remembering; the rising sun however turns it into a virtual kaleidoscope as its rays filter through and eventually dissipate the fog. It is a unique experience that can be experienced most summer mornings if you are at the lake by 0700.

    The trail head for the White River Corridor Trail is located at Shepherd of the Hill Trout Hatchery. Located at the foot of Table Rock Dam, the hatchery is is readily accessible, from Branson by traveling south on State Highway 165 from its Junction with Highway 76. It is about a mile south of the Welk Theatre on 165. Just follow the walkway leading from the picnic pavilion located at the north end of the Outlet #2 Parking Lot.

    For a full morning, or afternoon, time your visit with a visit to the Shepherd of the Hills Hatchery and Conservation Center. Trail maps and directions are available at the Center. For further information call the Shepherd of the Hills Hatchery Conservation Center at 417-334-4865.

  • Branson Restaurant Review: No matter how you spell it, BBQ or Barbeque, it’s great at Danna’s Bar-B-Que & Burger Shop

    In Branson, Missouri, where there’s a restaurant for every taste, including good Barbeque, or is it BBQ, “Danna’s Bar-B-Que & Burger Shop” stands out. Danna’s specialty is smoked meats, sausage, pulled pork, pullet beef, ribs, and chicken. When Danna’s, and yes there is a Danna, marinade and secret rub is combined with their slow smoke cooking the result is a taste sensation that is tender and just about falls off the bone.

    Obviously, with a build like the Ole Seagull has he doesn’t miss many meals and one of his favorite meals is BBQ pulled pork. As each new BBQ establishment opens up he dutifully tries them and goes back to Danna’s. Now BBQ is an extremely personal thing but for pulled pork with just the right amount of moisture that melts in your mouth Danna’s is hard to beat. Top it with a tad of their mild sauce and it’ about as good a taste as an Ole Seagull’s mouth could hope for.

    Strange at it might seem, the Catfish Sandwich is another favorite. A big catfish filet is deep fried to a light golden brown and put on a bun which it dwarfs. It’s served piping hot with an order of fries and will leave you wondering why they don’t change the name of the place to “Danna’s Bar-B-Que & Burger & Catfish Shop.”

    Danna’s burgers are not just a sideline, they are a specialty. They are big, about six ounces, juicy, tasty, and right up there with the best burgers in Branson. Danna’s has a couple of “specialty burgers” for the more adventurous, The “Garbage Burger” and the “Danna Burger.” Your imagination will have to handle the “Garbage Burger” but the “Dana Burger” is a 6 ounce patty served on a toasted bun topped with a generous portion of pulled pork with lettuce, tomato pickle, and BBQ sauce.

    Danna’s has a kids menu for those 12 and under. It includes a choice of chicken strips, grilled cheese, or a corn dog with French fries and a drink for about $3.99.

    Danna’s is located on State Highway 165 just north of its junction with Fall Creek Road on the west side of the street and is open 11:00 a.m. to 8:30 Mon-Thurs and until 9:00 pm on Fri-Sat. The telephone number of the main shop is 417-337-5527.

    Danna’s also has a shop at the State Park Marina called the “Boat House” which is open from 10:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily. Smaller menu with the same great taste and quality. Pick it up by car or boat or eat it at the picnic tables provided right on the covered dock out on Table Rock Lake. It’s kind of a neat and unique experience. To get to the Boat House just follow the State Park Marina signs on State Highway 165 south of the Table Rock Dam. The Boat House telephone number is 417-337-5701.

    Originally Published In the Branson Courier on Aug. 8, 2005.

  • Branson offers something for everyone!

    Just wanted to say, that since 1990 I have been to Branson about 7 times, and hoping to come again this year.I have never been disappointed ever. I think everyone involved in making Branson what it is, should be commended on their efforts to provide one of the best, and most fun vacation spots there is. Not only is Branson affordable, it offers something for the young and old. Keep up the good work. Rick, Wooster, Ohio