Branson Courier

Month: November 2006

  • Can it be, the “Dodink Magic and Variety Show” appearing in Branson city hall?

    The best show in Branson on Monday, Nov. 27 just might be the imaginary “Dodink Magic and Variety Show,” to be presented as part of the Branson Board of Aldermen meeting starting at 7:00 p.m. Although not listed formally on the agenda for the meeting, may an Ole Seagull’s overactive imagination suggest that there are three agenda items, scheduled to run back to back at that meeting, that could provide enough excitement, drama, slight of hand, and maybe even a little bit of “song and dance” to meet that bill.

    They are, in scheduled order, a presentation by Paul Link on Decorum Rules as required by Branson City Code for all Board of Aldermen Meetings, a presentation by Joe Johnson of Lathrop & Gage regarding the protection of the use of the Branson name by City Council, and the “First Reading” of the of Bill No. 3344 which will authorize the building of a 300 foot skyscraper as part of the “The Point Entertainment Complex” located at 448 State Highway 248.

    The more astute reader will note the common thread running through the entire “production” which, an Ole Seagull believes, is being choreographed and produced by two of the city of Branson’s highest paid senior level management employees. That thread is one that appears to be becoming more and more involved with the city of Branson’s “sewing” lately, “legal thread.” The agenda items seem to indicate that the “show” will star the city of Branson’s very own, highly paid senior level management employee, city attorney Paul Link, who, even a casual observer might say, provides the common “link” between all three agenda items.

    The first act is a “presentation by Paul Link on Decorum Rules as required by Branson City Code for all Board of Aldermen Meetings.” Obviously no one knows what Link will say but, based on the city of Branson’s past actions regarding public input, it would not be surprising if that presentation was not another attempt by some of the city of Branson’s highest paid senior level management employees, to exert more control over the ability of those seeking to speak publicly at city meetings. In any event the presentation should involve drama and perhaps a little “song and dance” should the decorum of two of the city of Branson’s highest paid senior level management employees at recent board meetings come into question.

    The second act, a “presentation by Joe Johnson of Lathrop & Gage regarding the protection of the use of the Branson name by City Council,” will probably be a bit more exciting than the first and should contain some historical drama and a lot of song and dance as the city of Branson, sparing no expense, brings in a guest performer to try to justify their actions regarding its claim to the right to control the name “Branson.” Why it wouldn’t surprise an Ole Seagull if there wasn’t some slight of hand worked into the act trying to convince the board and public that an orange is really an apple.

    But, in true showmanship style they have saved the real magic for the last act. Through what an Ole Seagull believes is the failure of two of the city of Branson’s highest paid senior level management employees to do their jobs, the 25 story sky scraper that almost everyone thought had been reduced to 12 stories by the board of aldermen at their Sep. 25 meeting will again, “magically” reappear in all of its original 300 foot splendor. In fact, if an alderman doesn’t make a motion to amend it, and it is approved as presented, Branson could have its very first 300 foot sky scraper. That’s how many stories?

    This act could provide a powerful finale to the show involving real drama, a 25 story illusion, a really good song and dance routine, and slight of hand as those involved try to make the simple appear complex. Things could really get interesting if just one alderman asked why the two very high paid city of Branson senior level management employees paid to, among other things, prevent something like this from happening sat idly by and let them pass an legally irrelevant ordinance that didn’t accomplish what they wanted to accomplish.

    Of course that won’t happen because, although the agenda items mentioned above are scheduled as presented, their reference to acts in the “Dodink Magic and Variety Show” is but a figment of an Ole Seagulls overactive imagination relating to an obvious fictional show. Perhaps not so obvious however, is the fact that this imaginary show was a puppet show with the strings of the puppets being controlled by a master puppeteer in an effort to take “Branson,” and all that it has built, and use it for the new city of Branson that they are creating in their own image.

  • Trout fishing doesn’t get much simpler, or dumber, than this!

    I had not been out fishing in over two weeks but the weather at about 4:00 p.m on November 24 was unseasonably warm, the wind was down, and, as I looked out of my window, Lake Taneycomo just seem to beckon.I grabbed my fly rod and headed out the door. When I got up around the bend from Fall Creek I noticed midges rising and decided to fish right there. The boat was in about 3 feet of water and I was fishing back into shore. Without thinking I simply stripped out some line, made a cast, and caught a nice little 13-14 inch Rainbow. Over the next 30 minutes or so I caught about six more, none real small and none over 14 inches. Then I hit a 30 minutes stretch where I didn’t have a hit.

    Finally I decided to check the midge and discovered that the indicator had slipped up to within three inches of the midge. Don’t know how long I was fishing that way but I would bet it was just about 30 minutes or so. Point is, I didn’t check or change a thing when I started fishing and that worked well. I didn’t check anything the last 30 minutes and it didn’t work too well. Typically I would change flies or jigs and tippet before each trip but I did not here. I used the same size 18 Copper Dun Midge I had used the last time I had been out set at the same three foot depth with the same tippet even though I was fishing in a different spot, under different weather conditions, and in deeper water. But what if I had hooked into the fish that I fish all year for, the 20 inch plus lunker and it had broken off. Simple fishing and quick but dumb. Typically, if I don’t get a hit after about five casts I check the lure and or change. This day I just kept casting, again, simple but dumb, because cast after cast I wasn’t getting a hit.

    Regardless of the fact that it was late in the day, I should have started with new tippet, I use Orvis Mirage 6x and tied on a midge or jig specific for the conditions I was fishing. As I fished, every few casts or so I should have check the fly end to make sure there was no moss etc. on it, that the indicator hadn’t slipped down, and there were no nicks in it. As I was I lucked out early on in spite of myself but that luck ran out during the last 30 minutes.

    Other Lake Taneycomo Fishing Reports


    River Run Outfitters     – For their latest fishing report click here.
    Chartered Waters Guide Service and Fly Shop .-For the latest fishing report click here.
    Lilly’s Landing – For the latest fishing report click here.
    Scotty’s Lakefrom Trout Dock – For latest fishing report click here.
    Guide Bob Klein of “Bob’s Guide Service” – The following standard default techniques produces fish routinely:

    Water Off Conditions (not generating power from Table Rock Dam) – Air injected night crawlers or Orange and Chartreuse Power Eggs, with the Chartreuse on shank of hook and the Orange on tip. Fish them off the bottom with no heavier than 4 pound leader, size 8 or smaller hooks, and just enough split shot to cast. Place the shot so that the bait floats 12-18 inches off the bottom. Spin-A-Lures and Little Cleos have been working well.

    Water On Conditions – Orange and Chartreuse Power eggs with the Chartreuse on shank of hook and the Orange on tip, white Power Eggs, bubble gum power bait, or inflated night crawlers bounced off the bottom using the standard "Lake Taneycomo Drift Rig." which is readily available at all Marinas and most resorts on the Lake.

    General Information on Lake Taneycomo

    Water Level Information: There is nothing that effects the fishing and the way a person fishes on Lake Taneycomo than whether or not they are running water from the Table Rock Dam. The number to call for a recorded message on current conditions is 1-417-336-5083. For on line information about water condtitions go to http://www.swl-wc.usace.army.mil/WCDS/plots/Web/tab.htm or click here.

    Special Regulations apply to the Trophy Trout Area running from Table Rock Dam to the mouth of Fall Creek and to fishing Lake Taneycomo for trout., Click here for an overview of these regulations

    History of Lake Taneycomo – .

    More Lake Taneycomo Information – An excellent place to get your Lake Taneycomo Questions answered, or any question relating to the fishing and other outdoor topics in the Branson area, is the “Branson Outdoors Activities Forum” which is monitored by your editor and other local outdoor enthusiasts.

  • The logic of “Tweedledee” and “Tweedledum” city of Branson style!

    A portion of the Branson board of alderman’s meeting that took place on Nov. 13 was reminiscent of a scene out of Lewis Carroll’s “Alice and Wonderland.” Alice is having a conversation with Tweedledum and Tweedledee during which Tweedledum says to Alice, “I know what you’re thinking about, but it isn’t so, no how.” Tweedledee then says, “Contrariwise, if it was so, it might be; and if it were so, it would be; but as it isn’t, it ain’t. That’s logic.”

    During the Public Comment portion of the meeting, Pamela Dapprich was attempting to read a timeline and make comments on the events and circumstances involved with the city of Branson’s aborted attempt to get her to drop the term “Branson” from the name of the not for profit corporation that she is involved with. The tapes of the meeting indicate that, about six minutes into the ten minute presentation she is allowed by city ordinance, a senior, unelected, executive level employee of the city of Branson, city attorney Paul Link, breaks in and says, “Mr. Mayor, I’m, I’ve let this go for quite a while but I’m going to have to call some sort of decorum ruling on this. I’ve, it has repeatedly been said that I am lying and misrepresenting.”

    What kind of Tweedledum logic is that? Forgetting, for the moment, Link’s authority to “call” anything during the Public Comment portion of the meeting without a request from the mayor, the Ole Seagull gives up, “What “sort of decorum ruling?” What is its basis? Of course we’re not about to find out at this point because, as Dapprich says, “Don’t take my ten minutes,” and attempts to continue before her ten minutes expired, Link breaks in again and says, “Mam, I’m not taking your ten minutes but we’re not going to listen to this anymore.” Well, “pardone moi,” but who is Link to tell the mayor and board of aldermen what they can or cannot listen to.

    Evidently, the board of aldermen and the meeting’s presiding officer, the mayor, the one to whom both Roberts Rules of Order and the city of Branson’s decorum ordinance give the authority to in such matters, didn’t respond to Link’s interruption of Dapprich quick enough or in the desired manner. The city of Branson’s senior, unelected, executive level employee, city administrator Terry Dody breaks in and says, “Mr. Mayor some kind of action does need to be taken she’s in violation of decorum rules, in violation of the ordinance.”

    Now isn’t that interesting, the situation has progressed from Links “some sort of decorum ruling” to Dody flat stating that “she’s in violation of decorum rules, in violation of the ordinance.” Even Tweedledee and Tweedledum know how to call this one, “If it was so, it might be; and if it were so, it would be; but as it isn’t, it ain’t.”

    Assuming that even senior, unelected, executive level employees of the city of Branson have to follow city ordinances like the rest of us, in an Ole Seagull’s opinion, there were only two people in that room in violation of a city ordinance when Dody made his statement and one of them wasn’t Dapprich. Roberts Rules of Order and city of Branson ordinances, as governs the Public Comment Meeting, states very clearly that the presiding officer, in this case the mayor, has the responsibility for determining matters of order and decorum during the meeting and makes provision for requesting advice from others outside the board should he decide such advice is necessary.

    The official tapes of the meeting indicate that, at that point, Dapprich had the floor. They also indicate that neither the alderman nor the mayor had called for a point of order regarding decorum or asked for any advice from Link or Dody. Instead, what the tapes reflect is that two of the city of Branson’s senior unelected, executive level employees delayed or interrupted the proceedings, disturbed a speaker, and spoke during the Public Comment Meeting of the board of aldermen without registering, all in apparent violation of one or more provisions of the Branson Municipal Code.

    As Dapprich is attempting to continue, and the mayor and board continues to ignore both his and Links outbursts to this point, Dody again breaks in and says, “She needs to be called out of order, I’m sorry.” In the opinion of an Ole Seagull, “sorry” could describe the actions of two of the city of Branson’s senior unelected, executive level employees at the meeting and the boards continued failure to make them follow the rules like everyone else. As to anyone actually being “sorry” for the actions they took at the meeting, what did Tweedledum say, “…but it isn’t so, no how.”

  • 72nd Annual Branson Veterans Day Parade Photos

    50 Flags at Branson Veterans Day Parade
    50 Flags marching down business 65.

    Branson’s 13th Veterans Homecoming culminated with the 72nd Annual Veterans Day Parade. It was a perfect sunny day enjoyed by participants young and young at heart. It included every thing from marching bands, hot rods, to veterans representing many different facets of our armed forces. Enjoy the day for your self through our online photo album of the 72nd Annual Branson Veterans Day Parade.

  • The Circle B Chuckwagon and Cowboy Music Show is a unique Branson “family” experience.

    Riders of the Circle B, left to right, Louis Darby,
    Katie Horn Lawson, and Christiana Horn,
    Michael Horn, and Kemp Horn.

    It seems like a misnomer to call the Circle B Chuckwagon and Cowboy Music Show simply a show because it is so much more. It is a multimedia entertainment experience that entertains as it fills you up with good food, whoops, I’m sorry, the cowboy rules at the Circle B, grub, while it warms your heart with the Horn family’s warm humor, friendliness, musicality, and obvious love for each other and what they are doing.

    And let there be no doubt about it, this is a family operation not only in terms of its content but in terms of the involvement of the Horn family. From ticket sales, to food preparations and the show’s cast the Horn family is involved in every aspect. As you walk into the theatre or purchase your ticket you might be greeted by the real “trail boss” of the Circle B, mom, Michele Horn. The “Chuckwagon” part of the Circle B Chuckwagon and Cowboy Music Show, the excellent and plentiful “cowboy chuck wagon” meal of BBQ beef, smoked sausage, baked potatoes, beans, and “cowboy salad” is prepared daily on premises by Bob Luthardt, a son in law, who also operates the sound, light, and multimedia systems during the show.

    Katie Horn Lawson, lead vocals, comedy,
    rythym guitar, and mandolin.

    The “Show” part of the Circle B Chuckwagon and Cowboy Music Show is presented by the “Riders of the Circle B” consisting of five performers of which four are Horn family members. The groups “ramrod” is, dad, Kemp Horn, who sings, plays harmonica, and occasionally plays bass, son Michael Horn who sings, plays guitar and bass while daughter Katie Horn Lawson sings lead vocals, plays rhythm guitar and the mandolin and daughter Christiana Horn sings and plays the fretless acoustic bass. The fifth member of the cast will either be two-time Louisiana State Fiddle Champion Louis Darby or long time Branson native and cowboy singer and musician, John Fullerton. Throughout the show other cast members, all of which are Horn family members, add their unique talents to the show. Megan’s fiddle rendition of the traditional Irish jig, the “Irish Washer Woman” is but another example of the musical talents that bless this family.

    The show is a blend of special familial humor that will touch your heart and cowboy music that will bring back memories, remind us of a by gone age, and is pleasing to the ear. A person actually gets to hear each word of each song because someone has taken the effort to design arrangements and make sure that the instruments complement the tight harmonies of their singing rather than drown them out. In a program filled with entertaining music there were two numbers that really hit a chord. One was the family’s rendition of the song “A Little Baby Was Born,” written by Michael Horn. The song itself has beautiful music and lyrics and the way it was sung provided one of the show highlights for me. The other was Katie Horn’s unique rendition of the long time American favorite “Shenandoah.”

    Michael and Kemp Horn

    Originally Published In the Branson Courier on Nov.15, 2006.

    Adding a special dimension to the show is sibling, “Smothers Brothers” style, comedy of Katie and her brother Michael. Katie describes it as “An honest comedy that is very organic and spur of the moment.” The Ole Seagull would describe it as entertaining and funny, really funny. And besides where else can one learn the similarities between John the Baptist and Winnie the Pooh?

    The whole wonderful experience that is the Circle B Chuckwagon and Cowboy Music Show takes about two and one half hours, from about 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. That would include the free popcorn, a vintage Roy Rogers movie, the meal, and the Riders of the Circle B Cowboy Music Show. The point is that by 7 p.m. you have been fed, have seen a great show, and are free to take advantage of whatever else Branson has to offer for the rest of the evening, another show, an attraction, shopping, or maybe, just relaxing. The Circle B Chuckwagon and Cowboy Music Show is located at 200 Jess Jo Parkway in Branson, MO 65616, right off Highway 76 behind the Branson Variety Theatre, and can be reached by phone at (417) 336-1828 or (800) 678-6179.

    When Kemp Horn was asked, “What one thing would you like people to take from their experience at the Circle B?” he replied, “A sense of our family’s love for each other, the Lord, and our country.” From an Ole Seagull’s perspective it would be just about impossible for someone who experienced the Circle B to not only to sense that love but have it warm their heart and enrich their lives.

    Some things just feel comfortable and that’s the way the Ole Seagull felt when he first walked into the Horn family’s Circle B Chuckwagon and Cowboy Music Show. He’s been back twice since and that feeling has not changed. More importantly, he has had, and witnessed many others having, a wonderful time and, at the end of the day, isn’t that what entertainment is all about?

  • Unique review of Mannheim Steamroller’s Branson Christmas Show

    “The Christmas Music of Mannheim Steamroller by Creator Chip Davis” is appearing at the beautiful Grand Palace Theatre in Branson, MO, through December 9, 2006. It is a multimedia presentation including videos, multimedia images, synchronized lighting, special effects and, of course the music of Mannheim Steamroller. There are 14 musical performers, performing the driving Steamroller rhythms and electronic wizardry, accompanied by orchestral instrumentation.

    Although the Ole Seagull has seen the show, he thought it would be interesting to have a review based on what other people who attended the show thought. The following are excerpts and posts from the 1Branson.Com Bulletin Board from its “Shows Forum,” for the different threads relating to the Mannheim Steam Roller Christmas Show. They were all submitted by people who have been to the show, are all dated, contain the “screen name” of the poster, and are sorted descending chronological order, with the newest first and the oldest last. The Ole Seagull’s comments are contained in the last three paragraphs.

    [BransonCutie- Nov.10] We saw the show last Friday night and it was delightful!

    [MsTerese- Nov. 11] Well, we all really enjoyed the show last night. DH even bought the 4+1 CD packages for my sis & me. Positives: real (well, at least wet) "snow" falling on the crowds, enthusiastic musicians, lots of my favorite songs, excellent lighting & video work, wonderful encore at the end. Negatives: Wish they’d introduced the entire orchestra, not just the 4 main people of the group….they were all good, and should have been recognized. A little disappointed at the performance of their most well known song, Carol of the Bells…just expected more OOMPH! out of it, I guess. All and all, very glad we went. Also, for those who aren’t planning on seeing this show, at the very least drop by the Grand Palace during the day, step inside, and spend a few minutes ogling the magnificent tree they put up!

    [BransonCutie- Nov.4] We saw this show last evening and I have to say that my assessment is pretty much the same. It was an incredibly enjoyable show overall, but not as much of a production as I had been anticipating with the information I had been hearing. I agree that the opening of the second act, with the very long video clip, was not what I was expecting, and the people I was with were also of the opinion the music was not live at that point. But overall, it was a delightful show and I would definitely recommend seeing it!

    [phillip3225- Nov.4] “No there’s not really any on stage dancers or singers. The second half there is a 20-30 minute video of medieval times with people running around and dancing. It was a little odd if you ask me. I did miss what they said in the introduction to the video. You will enjoy the show.” [Editors Note: Although it might seem longer, the video is closer to 15 minutes than it is 30 minutes.]

    [wintervaf- Nov. 4]- “I saw this show yesterday afternoon also. The show was enjoyable enough, but what struck me as odd–by Branson show standards–was the total lack of interaction with the audience. To bring out that jester who clomps across the stage at little earlier might help. He could get the audience clapping along with the medieval dance sequence just to remind them they’re not in a movie theater.”

    [phillip3225- Nov.3]- “We went to the show tonight. Your review is they way I also feel. I do think though that the music was recorded for the first few songs on the second half. I also agree that the effects were not impressive. There were a few things that made me go, huh? Overall it was great but there were a few odd parts. Nice show.”

    [oldbranhand- Nov.3]- “This afternoon we went to the Grand Palace to see Mannheim Steamroller. The music is provided by 14 musicians. The "leads" are the keyboard player, percussionist, guitar/bass player and the lead violinist. They are backed up by six more strings, one wind, two brass and another percussionist. If you are a fan of the group’s Christmas cd’s you will be pleased to find that they play most of your favorites. The music was fantastic. You will not be disappointed in this performance.

    We were somewhat disappointed in the visual effects that went with the concert. They were not bad, just not as impressive as we had hoped for. Finally, late in the second half of the concert, there were some better visuals.When the second half started, a thin curtain was down in front of the stage. A short video of Chip Davis introduced the next segment which started with a movie of a medieval Christmas projected on the screen. You could not see the musicians. Most of the audience must have thought the music was recorded because they all but stopped applauding after each number. Finally, they brought up the lights behind the curtain enough that you could see the musicians and realize that the music was indeed live. Everyone seemed much happier after that. In all, we would strongly recommend this show to anyone who enjoys Mannheim Steamroller’s style of music. If you do, you will love it. If you don’t, spend your money on something else.”

    The Ole Seagull saw the show on the evening of Nov. 3 and thought that it was a good show presented by extremely talented musicians. The Mannheim Steamroller style of music is different and if one is a fan of that style they will enjoy the show immensely. Obviously, if one is not a fan of that style of music the show might not be for them. The friends that went with us were Mannheim Steamroller fans and just loved the show.

    There was zero interaction between the performers and the audience and the visual and special effects were a tad less than expected. The start of the second half, with the medieval feast, is as perplexing to me as it was to some of the commenter’s. What a lost opportunity to start the second half off with a bang. That aside however, the rest of the second half and the encores were great.

    If you are a Mannheim Steamroller fan this is a must see show. If you don’t know whether or not you are a fan of the “Mannheim Steamroller” style of music this show will give you an excellent opportunity to experience it and make your determination. Millions of people have done just that and love it. It’s a great addition to Branson and the variety of entertainment that it offers.

  • The Great Passion goes “Beyond Dickens” to celebrate Christmas

    "Beyond Dickens" to…

    As the town of Eureka Springs, Arkansas celebrates “It’s A Dickens of A Christmas”, The Great Passion Play encourages visitors to go “Beyond Dickens”. This unique Christmas experience takes visitors from a Victorian street scene (right out of Charles Dickens’ novel) and into first century Bethlehem. Here the sights & sounds of the very first Christmas surrounds visitors, as they join the travelers from throughout Judea, the citizens & animals, the Roman soldiers, tax collectors, Shepherds, and Mary & Joseph to create a live interactive nativity scene.

    In its fourth season, “Beyond Dickens” continues to bring new customers to the Eureka Springs, Arkansas Christmas Celebration. The event also includes fabulous window displays, appearances by the famous artist Jack Dawson, special tram tours to the Christ of the Ozarks Memorial Statue and the Amphitheater and beautiful lighting of the entire Great Passion Play grounds, as well as a presentation of “Christmas On Ice…A Stroll Down Memory Lane”.

    the first Christmas.

    Upon arrival at The Great Passion Play, visitors are welcomed with apple cider and Christmas treats. Beautifully attired Victorian characters, such as Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchitt, Tiny Tim, and a town crier invite visitors to “Go beyond Dickens into the very first Christmas.” Passing through the gate, visitors enter Bethlehem on the night Christ was born. Stern Roman soldiers, who occupy Bethlehem, instruct all to register for the census and pay their taxes. The townspeople engage visitors in conversation and talk about life in their little village. Travelers meet shepherds with a fantastical tale about seeing angels, as well as shopkeepers, harried housewives drawing water at the town well, and artisans who are excited about the opportunity to sell their wares to all of the people in town for the census. Visitors travel a little way out of “town” past the inn, to a stable where Mary and Joseph tell their story and share their joy at the birth of the baby Jesus.

    The window displays, created by local businesses and Great Passion staff, include delightful recreations of the Crescent Hotel as a gingerbread house, Treasures from the Pacific Christmas celebration, a Department 56 village, Christmas memories, and more. Visitors also enjoy the Sacred Arts Center where Jack Dawson and his painting “The Passion Tree” are featured. "The “Passion Tree” illustrates the Bible from Genesis to Revelation with each ornament showing an event in history. Bibles with pages turned to the Christmas story, as well as a special collection of bells, are exhibited in the Bible Museum and visitors also take a trip through the Museum of Earth History. This Museum focuses on the earth’s early history. Featuring over 14 life-sized skeleton skulls, and fossil plates, the museum provides an attraction for people from all walks of life, from scientists to school children.

    Christmas nativities from around the world are displayed inside the Christmas Hall where a special presentation “Christmas On Ice…A Stroll Down Memory Lane” completes the evening. This community project produced by a volunteer cast is led by Darry and Pam Lisemby.

    “Beyond Dickens” is fast-becoming a must-experience event for the whole family. Family passes that include mom, dad, and all the kids 17 and under, are available. “Beyond Dickens” is open through December 9 on Friday and Saturday nights from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Adult admission is $10.00, admission for children ages 6 -17 is $5.00, and the family pass is $20.00. For more information, please call 800-882-7529 or visit the website at www.greatpassionplay.com.

    Photos from www.greatpassionplay.com. Captioned by Gary J. Groman

  • Presleys’ Country Jubilee: Branson’s Entertainment Foundation

    Having fun at Presleys’ Country Jubilee.

    Having lived in the Branson area my entire life, I’ve had countless conversations with visitors asking me to recommend my favorite shows, places to stay, and places to eat. Our conversations usually include at least one mention of the Presleys’ Country Jubilee. People want to know if I’ve seen it, did I enjoy it, will my teenagers enjoy it, etc. I always respond with a great big "Yes!"

    In Branson, the Presleys’ have the distinction of having the first theater along Hwy. 76. If we fast forward to today, the Presleys’ are still going strong and are one of the most popular shows in Branson. Branson’s entertainment scene has certainly changed since the Presleys’ built their very first theater, but the entertainment foundation that was laid by this pioneering family has remained the same.

    Lloyd Presley tells son Steve , "I Don’t Need
    Your Rockin Chair!"l

    The Presleys’ Theatre is a musical shrine to this leading family in Branson entertainment. Pictures and newspaper articles line the wall to let visitors know about their early beginings. The gift shop is home to many items including seasonal merchandise. One unique item that I found iis "Herkimer’s Joke Books." If you like the comedy performed during the show by "Herkimer" and "Cecil," then you will surely enjoy these books. Just in case your tummy starts to growl, the snack bar has many tempting selections to help you out. My favorite thing about this theater is the seats. They are so comfortable. This is a very important aspect in the overall enjoyment of a show that the other theater owners should take into consideration..

    When the curtain opens and the show begins, your ears will be rewarded with many different styles of music including both classic and contemporary country, bluegrass, gospel and patriotic strains. Not only will your ears be satisfied but this show is also a feast for your eyes. The show has many special effects including a "flyin’ Cecil", classy outfits adorn the cast members, and hilarious video antics makes the intermission time pass by quickly.

    The show begins with a rousing version of Dolly Parton’s, "Take Me Back To The Country." Several solo performances offer up contemporary hits like, Ambrus Leigh’s performance of Carrie Underwood’s, "Jesus, Take The Wheel", and Devonna Wickizer’s bluegrass version of, "Hillbilly Rock." Jay takes us back to the roots of country music during his solo work that includes impersonations of Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson. In order to obtain Willie’s distinct nasal sound, Jay has to pinch his nose. Now that is what I call attention to detail! In addition to their individual solo numbers, during the second half this husband and wife team perform a love struck duet that will be sure to put a spark in your night.

    John Presley Floyd Cramer style on the piano.

    Since this show is all about family, I can’t help but mention the young Presley talent that is coming up. John Presley reminds us of Floyd Cramer’s expressive style as he pounds it out on the piano. This will cause the grandmas’ and grandpas’ in the audience to sit up and take notice. If that doesn’t work, then maybe his "dancing" eyes will. John’s younger sister performs solos on both the violin and the saxophone. Her masterful work on the violin exudes classical tendencies. Scott Presley is all smiles as he watches his daughter, Lauren, perform "Stupid Cupid." Lloyd Presley, who is 82 years young, proves that youth has nothing to do with it when he performs the George Jones hit, "I Don’t Need Your Rocking Chair." I’ll probably be hiding my own Easter eggs at 82– HA!

    Some standout moments from the show includes the zany comedy that erupts whenever "Herkimer" and "Cecil" are around. If you are lucky, "Cecil" might even make a balloon animal for you, and wait until you see how he "ties" it. The trio made up of, "Porter", "Dolly", and the "Dixie Chick" made for some truly "inflatable" fun. Ambrus Leigh performs an amazing, soulful rendition of "Somewhere Over The Rainbow." Greg Presley plays a spirited version of "Amazing Grace" on his harmonica as he walks through the audience. One final standout moment from the show came from the gospel section as Bruce Haynes performed a song that he wrote entitled, "Praise His Name."

    If you’ve ever asked yourself, how did Branson evolve into what it is today? You need to head on down to see Presleys’ Country Jubilee to witness for yourself what everyone is talking about, the show that paved the way for the quality entertainment that Branson has today.

    For online information and ticket purchase click here or for further information or tickets call 800-590-0155 and for more information on the Presleys’ Country Jubilee click here.

    Original Photos taken by Jeremy McNabb. Edited and captioned by Gary J. Groman.

  • “Doty” could be “Dody” but the city of Branson could never be “Branson!”

    A recent letter to the editor from Mr. Robert Cohn of Branson appeared to be primarily concerned with the Ole Seagull’s columns pertaining to the actions, or inactions, of the city of Branson’s elected officials and a few senior, unelected, executive level employees. The only factual content of the letter seemed to relate to the column entitled, “Does Branson need an SOB to save it from the city of Branson and it’s ‘Dodink Law’” published in the Nov. 5 edition of this paper. It is available on line at www.bransoncourier.com under “Editorials.”

    The letter states that the Ole Seagull “complains that the rules limit him, to 10 minutes at the podium at the end of a Board meeting. It is people like Mr. Groman that make the 10 minute rule necessary as they don’t seem to be able to have their say in just a few well selected words.” From an Ole Seagull’s perspective, in its kindest light, Cohn’s statements indicate that he is a fountain bubbling over with miss information.

    The column mentioned a specific action, taken on the official public record of the meeting cited, evidencing yet another situation where a senior, unelected, executive level employee of the city of Branson, in this case city attorney Paul Link, appeared to either abuse their authority or violate the laws of the city of Branson. The Ole Seagull wasn’t even at the meeting and, to the best of his knowledge, has never asked for an extension of time.

    In yet another instance of missing the reality of the situation, Mr. Cohn states that the Ole Seagull is allegedly, “part of a small band of individuals that are not residence of Branson, Missouri, and yet spend their time finding fault ….” Cohn’s attempt to relate residency within the city of Branson with ones right to speak out about the issues that effect Branson is the type of cart before the horse logic that undervalues what makes the city of Branson financially relevant and overvalues the city of Branson’s contribution to what has made Branson what it is.

    “Branson” is in the public domain; it is a visitor expectation; a community; a geographical region covering multiple counties, cities, towns, villages, and unincorporated areas; and, of critical importance, an economic development tool used for the benefit of all living, working, and conducting business in “Branson.” As is the case with many others, the Ole Seagull, while not a “residence” of the city of Branson, is certainly a resident of Branson.

    What the city of Branson does or does not do, in the vast majority of cases, affects Branson and, in that regard, everyone in Branson has a vested interest, not just those few that reside within the city limits of the city of Branson. Where would the city of Branson be without the sweat, investment, and effort of those living in the Branson that is outside of the city limits of Branson?

    If, over the next 10-23 years the citizens of Branson are going to lose millions of tax dollars so that certain “big box” stores are located within the city limits of the city of Branson rather than elsewhere in Branson, such as Hollister, is it not prudent for every citizen of Branson, including those living within the city limits of the city of Branson, to get involved? If the city of Branson is sending letters to Branson businesses outside of the city limits of the city of Branson alleging that they cannot use the term “Branson” in their business names is that too not an issue that transcends mere residency within the city of Branson?

    The letter states, “I believe that Terry Doty would be the first to admit that he is human and capable of error.” Mr. Cohn probably doesn’t want to hold his breath waiting for that to happen. In an Ole Seagull’s opinion, based on the public record, the chances of such an admission are about the same as Terry Dody admitting that his last name is spelled “Doty.”

  • Moe Bandy and Country Tonite join forces in 2007

    With a total of more than 26 years of performing in Branson between them, Starlite Entertainment recently announced that, starting with the 2007 season, country music legend Moe Bandy’ show will be come a part of the Country Tonite show. Starlite Entertainment owns the Starlite Theatre, produces the “Lost in the 50’s Show with the Platters,” and provides theatre management services in Branson.

    Moe Bandy has earned his country music legend status with #1 Hits, 40 Top Ten Hits and five Gold Albums and countless other awards such as ACM Male Vocalist of the Year, CMA Song of the year and ACM Duet of the year. Some of his hits include “Till I’m Too Old to Die Young” “"Americana," "It’s a Cheatin’ Situation," and “Just Good Ol’ Boys.” “Till I’m Too Old to Die Young,” and “Bandy the Rodeo Clown.” Bandy made his first appearance in Branson in 1990 and has been entertaining Branson audiences ever since.

    %%%%Moe Bandy%% The Country Tonite show has been performing in Branson for about 13 years. It is a country variety show for noted for its musical and dancing talent, high energy, choreography, and comedy. Its music is a blend of country classics and hits from the past performed by a very talented “cast of vocalists, award-winning dancers, and fabulous musicians. Over the years Country Tonite has won numerous awards such as Branson’s Show of the Year and Dance Troupe of the Year from the Branson Entertainment Awards.

    In combining the talents of Bandy with the dynamic variety and entertainment that has always been Country Tonite, Keith Harper, Starlite’s Entertainment’s production director said, “We’ve worked hard to combine the very best of these two shows. We are bringing to life the wonderful heritage of country music ¬ including the incredible personality of Moe Bandy ¬ in one super production,” Starlite’s press release indicates that the new production will be a “combination of the best sights, sounds and high energy production people have come to know and love from the Country Tonite show, combined with the awe-inspiring hit songs of Moe Bandy’s show” resulting in a “fantastic combination of music, memories and magical, top-notch performances and production.”

  • Does Branson need an SOB to save it from the city of Branson and its “Dodink Law?”

    “Seagull, have you gone nuts using a term like SOB in a headline in a column that appears on a Sunday?” When one considers what the city of Branson’s elected leaders and senior unelected officials are attempting to do to Branson, it is understandable why one might think that the letters SOB stand for something other than one who might “sob” because of the city of Branson’s use of “Dodink Law” or the acronym, “S.O.B.,” which could be used for an organization such as “Save Our Branson.”

    In a previous column entitled, “Give us a break, the City of Branson can keep the term ‘Dodink’ but leave ‘Branson’ alone, please,” the Ole Seagull coined the phrase “Dodnik Law.” In an Ole Seagull’s opinion, it’s the kind of abusive law that the city of Branson’s citizens and small businesses can expect when the actions of the city’s senior unelected official, city administrator, Terry Dody and city attorney, Paul Link are not controlled by those having the responsibility to do so, Branson’s elected board of aldermen and mayor.

    At the Oct. 23 meeting of the Branson Board of Aldermen, during the Public Comment portion of that meeting, the city of Branson’s highest unelected official, its city attorney, the board of aldermen, and the mayor, provided yet another illustration of the arbitrary one sidedness of how Dodink Law is applied. As appears to be the case with increasing frequency as of late, it was again used to permit city of Branson officials to do exactly what they wanted to do, when they wanted to do it, regardless of what the very law they were allegedly doing it under says.

    Section 2-55 of the Branson City Code, is the ordinance designed to “accommodate citizens and guests who have comments or information regarding city business.” Its requirements are straight forward and easy to read so that the average person knows what it is that they have to do to be able to speak. It says, “Any person wishing to appear and speak at the public comment meeting shall sign the speaker sign-up sheet located at the front door of the council chambers. Each person wishing to speak at the public comment meeting must personally sign the speaker sheet prior to the opening of the public comment meeting.”

    The first thing of note is that the word “shall” is not optional. Who “shall sign the speaker sign-up sheet” according to the ordinance? “Any person wishing to appear and speak at the public comment meeting” must sign the sheet. According to the tapes of the meeting, Paul Link, the Branson City Attorney, had not signed the speaker sign up sheet. Paul Link is a “person” under Section 2-55.

    After a citizen of the Branson area had expressed themselves, in accordance with the ordinance, Link, in apparent violation of the ordinance and without any acknowledgement or approval from the mayor, the meetings presiding officer, just started speaking. What did the city’s senior unelected official, Branson’s elected board of aldermen, and the mayor do in the face of this apparent violation of city ordinance and the decorum prescribed for the meeting? If the tape of the meeting is any indication, nothing! What makes the situation even more ludicrous is that the board of aldermen had just passed changes pertaining to that very section earlier in the meeting.

    But wait, the “one law for you and another for us” application of Dodink Law isn’t over yet. As the speaker attempted to respond to Links unauthorized comments they were informed that they could not do so because their ten minutes was up. How arrogant and hypocritical, one application of the law for Branson city officials and another for its citizens and businesses. Yet another illustration of the professionalism and fairness that Branson area citizens, and businesses alike can expect if some S.O.B. like organization doesn’t save Branson from the city of Branson and its Dodink Law.

    “Isn’t it unusual for citizens and businesses to have to form an organization to protect themselves from the very city whose relevance and revenues comes from them?” The answer is “Yes” but then what other city would try to do to its area’s citizens and businesses what the city of Branson has done and is trying to do? What city in its right mind would treat the very theatres, attractions, other entertainment venues, and the lodging industry that has made it so successful as the “financial incubator” for the “New Branson” that, in an Ole Seagull’s opinion, is being built on the their sweat, investment, and effort? Exactly who wanted the convention center built downtown?