Branson Courier

Month: July 2007

  • What does the firing of Branson’s city administrator or attorney have to do with liquor regulation in Branson?

    This week’s column is a response to a post made to a thread entitled “State enforcement agency admits that Branson Landing kiosk beer permit vague,” that the Ole Seagull started in the forum of a website he is involved with, www.1Branson.com. The post is under the topic “Other Branson/Tri-Lakes Issues,” was posted on July 26 and has had 27 posts and 309 views as this is being written. The topic is so very timely and pertinent to the events currently going on within the city of Branson that the Ole Seagull wanted to share it with the whole community through the printed medium rather than simply posting it on line to a relatively small segment of that community.

    The post is made by an individual who has identified themselves as BransonMoTiger. It very concisely and tightly discusses the alcohol issue that is currently being addressed within our community and asks an apparently rhetorical question about how one can then blame the city administrator and current city attorney “in this so called “liqueor-gate?”

    BransonMoTiger then goes on to answer their own question by saying, “Because those who are complaining the loudest are those who either (1) made a campaign pledge as a candidate to, when elected, fire the city administrator and attorney or (2) citizens who supported candidates who promised to do the “firing” if elected.” Oh really, was it even a “candidate” that brought the issue up recently or was it a citizen, during a “Public Comment Meeting” of the board, that had a specific concern? Were the Ole Seagull a betting Seagull he would bet that, at this juncture, BransonMoTiger doesn’t even know the name of that person let alone who they supported in the election.

    Even a cursory review of the recordings of the recent meetings, discussing the issue of beer being consumed on the public access areas of Branson Landing, will indicate that one of the most outspoken and sincere individuals regarding this issue is Alderman Jack Purvis. Obviously, as a board member not up for reelection he was not a candidate and surely, BransonMoTiger has to know, or should know, that, to put it mildly, Purvis was not a citizen who, assuming that a candidate did, would have supported any candidate who promised to fire either Dody or Link.

    Indeed, is it even possible that Purvis himself also brought up the issue of people carrying open containers of beer at least once prior to the election? And what was the reason no action was taken on his concern at that time?

    BransonMoTiger then continues, “Ultimately, the alcohol issue is not important to the “new slate” of aldermen and mayor, who are not driven by a Carrie Nation type of prohibition frenzy.” What is the basis for BransonMoTiger’s conclusion that “the alcohol issue is not important to the “new slate” of aldermen and mayor? Why would it be any more or less important to them than the other three aldermen? You know, the ones who make up the rest of the very board of aldermen that, according to a July 23 press release issued by the city of Branson, unanimously voted and “passed a motion to review and strengthen the city’s liquor ordinances.”

    The post continues by stating, “They are just looking for a supposed reason to fire Terry Doty and Paul Link.” That seems contradictory to what the city’s press release says as it goes on to state, “The motion, which unanimously passed, would set up a community task force to review current liquor ordinances for greater control, check other cities’ liquor control ordinances, and then make a recommendation back to the aldermen. The Board also wants to eventually form a city liquor control commission to enforce state and municipal liquor laws.”

    To an Ole Seagull, the boards handling of this issue in the professional and efficient manner that it did, in spite of the contradictory advice received from both Dody and Link, speaks for itself and had nothing to do with the firing of either. One would hope, regardless of the outcome, that should such firing become an issue in the future that the board would handle that issue in the same professional and efficient manner.

  • Adam Hood to open for Taylor Hicks in Branson July 30

    Adam Hood to open for Taylor Hicks in Branson

    Singer/songwriter Adam Hood is coming to your neighborhood to turn you on to a "Different Groove." Hood will be opening for "American Idol" and fellow Alabamian Taylor Hicks at the Welk Resort Theatre on July 30.

    Adam Hood is red-hot at the moment. The young artist has been touring non-stop in support of his new album, "Different Groove," which is garnering critical reviews across the country. Ken Barnes of "USA Today" recently wrote that Adam is "One of the most interesting Americana/country acts I’ve heard in a while."

    Hood’s single "22 Days Too Long" is currently No.17 on the Texas Music Chart, with a corresponding video being launched shortly. He has also been asked to perform at the upcoming Diversafest in Tulsa and the prestigious Austin City Limits Festival and will be seen in an upcoming segment of "We’re An American Band" on the Documentary Channel.

    For his first full studio album, Adam has joined with Grammy Award-winning producer/guitarist Pete Anderson (Dwight Yoakam, Roy Orbison, k.d.lang, Sara Evans, Jackson Browne) to create an album of great depth and sensitivity.

    Photo courtesey of Little Dog Records

  • State enforcement agency admits that Branson Landing kiosk beer permit vague

    Representatives of the Missouri Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control stated their opinion that they could not enforce perimeter or premises violations against the licensees of the “Chicago Dogs Kiosk” in Branson Landing as the license is currently written. The admission came while Peter W. Lobdell, the State Supervisor for the Missouri Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control, and Joe Hodgin, District Supervisor, for Region 1, which covers Branson, gave a presentation to the city of Branson’s board of aldermen on July 23, at the request of Mayor Raeanne Presley.

    After Lobdell and Hodgin made their initial presentation Mayor Presley opened the meeting up for questions from the public and the board. Among other things, the questioning quickly zeroed in on the issues of people walking up and down the landing with open containers of beer and the size of the area around the Chicago Dogs Kiosk, at Branson Landing, in which patrons purchasing beer from it must remain while consuming that beer.

    Lobdell started by pointing out that there was a misunderstanding of the law and that the “consumption must be restricted to the premise.” As to whether or not the term “premises” could encompass the entire Branson Landing he said, “That would be a much smaller place than Branson Landing.” He went on to suggest that it would take legislative action at the state level to permit people to walk all over Branson Landing with open containers of beer.

    There was a lot of discussion on just how far people who purchased beer at the kiosk could go before they would be considered off “the premises” and subject the license holder to potential enforcement action. Although there was much rhetoric to the contrary and talk about “common sense,” at the end of the day, based on the way that the current permit is written, it appears that, from a state liquor control enforcement point of view, they could go just about as far as they wanted to.

    The city of Branson’s attorney, Paul Link stated that the only language in the permit pertaining to describing the premises related to one building and a “patio,” did not contain the words “adjacent patio.” In fact, a review of “Missouri – Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control –License Number 160885, applicable to the kiosk in question indicates that it is issued to Hot Concepts L.L.C. dba The Ball Park, 2534 E. Linwood, Springfield, MO 65806. The premises described in the license covers a one story Bldg., including patio area, located at a specific location, 214 Promenade Way, Branson Missouri for the sale of “5% by Drink,” beer.

    The city of Branson’s city administrator, Terry Dody asked at what distance away from the kiosk someone carrying a beer purchased at it would subject the owner to enforcement action. Lobdell, in stating his opinion said, “As its written now we could not enforce it because it’s so broad.” Lobdell further stated that had the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control been notified of the problem six months ago they would have corrected the situation immediately.

    Furnished courtesy of the Branson Daily Independent.

  • Branson Water and sewer rate increases and beer on tap for next Branson aldermen meeting

    By Gary J. Groman, a.k.a. The Ole Seagull

    On July 17 the city of Branson’s board of aldermen held a work session to plan the agenda for its regular business meeting to be held on Monday, July 23. The complete final agenda for the July 23 meeting can be found on the city’s web site at www.cityofbranson.org/meetings. Specific items discussed at the planning workshop relating to items of general public interest, such as the raising of water and sewer rates and the serving of alcoholic beverages in general public access areas, are as follows.

    The board will consider an ordinance change raising water rates 5 percent and sewer rates 15 percent. These rates will reflect the second year of increases in a five year water and sewer rate increase plan that was presented in September 2006 to reduce and eliminate the subsidization of water and sewer rates with funds from the Tourism/Capital Improvement Tax. If approved, the new rates will become effective with the October billing cycle.

    There was a lengthy and, at times heated, discussion about the serving of alcoholic beverages, specifically beer, from kiosks at Branson Landing. The discussion revolved around the fact that the people purchasing those beverages were not restricted to a certain area while consuming them. Instead, they were permitted access to stroll virtually anywhere in the general public access areas of Branson Landing such as the Public Square, parking lots, the board walk, promenades, etc. without control or restriction.

    Mayor Raeanne Presley pointed out that even as the work session was taking place that the situation at Branson Landing was in the process of being resolved and said, “I know that most of this discussion has revolved around the Landing but I believe that it could be a city wide issue.” She went on to point out that other malls etc. could seek to do the same thing that the Landing is doing and expressed her opinion that further discussion of the issue should relate to whether or not the city believes that it is appropriate to control it in some way.

    Mayor Presley continued, “It is incumbent upon us to go out and search for the right information.” At the request of the mayor, Peter Lobdell, the State Supervisor of the Missouri Division of Alcohol & Tobacco Control and Joe Hodgin, the District Supervisor for the area that covers Branson, will be making a presentation at the Jul. 23 meeting to present information on some of the liquor control issues the community is facing.

    Ozark Energy Partners L.L.C. will be making a presentation about their business and involvement with bringing natural gas to the area. The city of Branson’s city administrator, Terry Dody, pointed out that, as he understands it, the company is also interested in the city granting it a natural gas franchise. If Ozark Energy Partners L.L.C. were granted a franchise it would be the second granted by the city. At its Jul. 9 meeting the board of aldermen approved the assignment of the non exclusive natural gas franchise, which it approved and executed on Mar. 14, 2005, with Alliance Gas Energy, Inc., to Southern Missouri Natural Gas.

    A presentation will be made by Dr. Montel Wilder of Branson Trolley & Transportation, Inc. regarding “a proposal that would bring a mass transit system to the area without any cost to the city itself” and to “entice the city to support this exciting plan in order to secure federal and state funding to assist in bringing the plan to fruition.” Mayor Presley expressed her belief, based on a brief talk with the initial group, that the system they will be presenting will be more of a bus system than a trolley system.

  • Branson’s Namegate or beer the basis for the opinions is what is important!

    As some have noticed, the Ole Seagull has recently started doing some reporting in addition to writing a weekly column. Strange as it may seem, the major guiding percepts for criminal investigators, reporters, columnists, and just about anyone who wants or needs more than conclusions were all set forth and summarized in the first line of a poem contained in a short story by Rudyard Kipling. He wrote “I keep six honest serving-men, they taught me all I knew; their names are What and Why and When And How and Where and Who.”

    The Ole Seagull first learned them just about 40 years ago as he went through the basic law enforcement training course that all U.S. Treasury Agents went through and they have served him well. Yet, the six are not equally weighted in terms of use and, in some situations, not all will be used. The Who, Where, When, and What are pretty basic factual determinations in the majority of situations. The How and Why of a given situation is more an art than a science and are susceptible to opinion and conjecture. It is a necessary part of every investigation and an opinion columnist’s world, but not necessarily every reporting situation.

    As an example, as a reporter, the Ole Seagull, in reporting on what was said at a particular meeting, wrote a news article in the July 20 edition of this paper entitled, “Branson alderman warns city administrator and attorney about erroneous information,” which is available on line at www.bransoncourier.com under “Local News.”

    The article reported that, at a July 9 meeting of the city of Branson’s board of aldermen, city attorney Paul Link responded to a request made by Mayor Raeanne Presley for information regarding the area within Branson Landing where beer purchased at a particular kiosk could legally be consumed. It quoted Link as saying, “In a nutshell, as has been stated here many times in public meetings, Branson Landing is private property. The liquor license that allows that kiosk [Chicago Hotdogs] to sell beer by the fountains extends for the Branson Landing property and it’s completely legal for someone to buy a beer at that kiosk and walk on the Landing because its private property.”

    From a basic reporting point of view there was the Who, What, Where, and When. No one asked Why or How Link had reached that conclusion and, if history is any witness, had it been the previous elected leaders ship of Branson, as it was constituted before its change during the April elections, Link’s statement would have been accepted as “gospel and that would have been the end of it.

    The news article reported that, at a board of alderman’s workshop held on July 17, after there was some indication questioning the basis for the conclusions contained in Links July 9 statement, that the following exchange took place between Link and city alderman, Stephen Marshall starting with a question asked by Marshall. “So Paul, how do you tell us, tell me, that it’s the whole thing that was licensed?” Link responded, “That was my understanding and I think, the city’s understanding.” Marshall then asked, “Who gave you that understanding?” Link replied, “That has been my understanding since I came down here and the reason why I, honestly, didn’t call liquor control and get the exact boundaries was because it was private property.”

    The honest serving-men named What, When, Where and Who have done their job and the reader has the facts. However, the columnist in an Ole Seagull has to ask two questions.

    How could a city attorney, or any other professional for that matter, respond to the mayors request and tell the board, as a matter of fact, what Link did during the Jul 9 meeting without having the professionalism to at least have done the basic research to determine that what they were saying was true? Why would anyone give anymore credence to the opinion of a person who would do such a thing than they would give to the person who sent the Branson Namegate letter of Sep. 15, 2006?

    “But Seagull, what if he was right?” Does it really make any difference?

  • Branson alderman warns city administrator and attorney about erroneous information

    By: Gary J. Groman, a.k.a. The Ole Seagull

    Things really heated up at the Jul. 17 work session meeting of the city of Branson’s board of aldermen as Alderman Stephen Marshall suggested that he had been given erroneous information by city attorney Paul Link and warned city administrator Terry Dody about such actions in the future. The alleged erroneous information came from comments Link made to the board, at its Jul. 9 meeting, regarding the area within Branson Landing where beer purchased at a particular kiosk could legally be consumed.

    At the Jul. 9 meeting, during the public comment portion of the meeting, the issue of where beer purchased at Branson Landing could be consumed came up. Mayor Presley said that, based on public comments made at the previous meeting, she had asked city attorney Paul Link to look into the issue and asked for his comments.

    Link said, “In a nutshell, as has been stated here many times in public meetings, Branson Landing is private property. The liquor license that allows that kiosk [Chicago Hotdogs] to sell beer by the fountains extends for the Branson Landing property and it’s completely legal for someone to buy a beer at that kiosk and walk on the Landing because its private property.”

    While the board was discussing the issue the ten minute time limit ran out. Mayor Presley suggested that the topic would be discussed at a future work session.

    The “Discussion of alcohol at the Branson Landing” was included on the agenda for the board’s Jul. 17 work session. In introducing the item, Mayor Raeanne Presley pointed out that, according to the Missouri Division of Alcohol & Tobacco Control, the particular kiosk in question, “Chicago Hotdogs,” must control the perimeter. Almost immediately, Alderman Stephen Marshall asked, “So they can’t walk all over the Landing?” Mayor Presley responded, “No, and within ten days he will be required to install a perimeter of some type around that business.”

    Alderman Marshall then directed a question to Link asking, “So Paul, how do you tell us, tell me, that it’s the whole thing that was licensed?” Link responded, “That was my understanding and I think, the city’s understanding.” Marshall then asked, “Who gave you that understanding?” Link replied, “That has been my understanding since I came down here and the reason why I, honestly, didn’t call liquor control and get the exact boundaries was because it was private property.”

    As the discussion between Link and Marshall continued, the city of Branson’s administrator, Terry Dody interrupted and said, “Well Stephen, the issue is that if liquor control would have granted them that large a perimeter that would have been the case and that was what HCW was working toward.”

    In response, Alderman Marshall said, “My effectiveness as an alderman is dependent upon the information that Paul gives us and that you give us and if its not correct information I am not going to be effective in what I say.” Dody responded, “Everything that was said Monday night was correct” because it could have been licensed that way. Marshall responded, “But it wasn’t licensed that way Mr. Dody.” Dody then said, “And it was never said that it was.”

    Marshall said, “It was, was implied that it was licensed that way Mr. Dody and I’m tired of getting that type of erroneous information.” In a very pointed and emphatic manner Marshall warned, “If you think that I am going to get ramroded like this for the next two years you are mistaken Mr. Dody.” As the discussion heated up from that point, Mayor Presley took control and the issue of the accuracy of the information provided to the board by Dody and Link was not again discussed.

    Furnished courtesy of the Branson Daily Independent.

  • Is there Highroad “Deja vu” involved with the closing of Branson’s Taneycomo Bridge?”

    The question is simple, how will the closing of the “Business 65 Bridge” over Lake Taneycomo for a year or more impact on our community and the lives of the thousands of people and the many businesses that use and depend on it daily, in terms of safety, economic impact, convenience, and quality of life? Unfortunately, the answers to the question are not as simple and, as often as not, lead to more questions without simple answers.

    A recent news article reported the good news, that according to Missouri Department of Transportation, MoDOT, Project Manager Chad Zickefoose, “The bridge isn’t in any danger of falling in.” Unfortunately, it also reported the bad news which, according to Zickefoose, is that “The deck is deteriorating fast” and will require repairs which will necessitate the closing of the bridge. Zickefoose is reported to have said that the closure would be for “a significant amount of time… in the vicinity of a year plus.”

    When discussing this potentially hot button issue, the wise words of Hollister’s city administrator, Rick Ziegenfuss, come to mind. He said, “I feel very confident that MoDOT and the principals involved want to do the best they can for the area.” The Ole Seagull shares that sentiment, particularly as applies to MoDot and the personnel of District 8. Simply put, there are very few people that travel in and around the Branson area that do not reap the blessings of their efforts on our behalf.

    That said however, it is hard to understand how a project of this magnitude, having this much impact on our community, could progress to the point of a public announcement of apparently being a “done deal” without more public awareness of what was going on. Why was there not more public discourse on the issue and how the proposed action ties into the overall long term comprehensive transportation plan for solving the immediate and future transportation needs of those traveling, living, and working in the area east of Lake Taneycomo?

    To an Ole Seagull the governing words here are not “more public discourse.” The governing words are “How the proposed action ties into the overall long term comprehensive transportation plan” for solving the obvious, and growing transportation needs that have been present since before the building of the Ozark Mountain Highroad. Time can dim the mind and lead some to hope that history will change the reality of what was done. Over a hundred million dollars was spent to build the Highroad on a priority emergency basis for the alleged expressed purpose of relieving Branson’s traffic congestion.

    Oh there was plenty of public discourse, but what there wasn’t was an overall long term comprehensive transportation plan showing, how, with the funds and resources available at the time, that the expenditure of over a hundred million dollars would solve Branson’s traffic congestion problem as it existed at the time. History and today’s reality testify as to how effective the expenditure of those millions of dollars was in solving the problem. Praise God for the city of Branson’s initiative in building its alternative road system!

    Although, the building of the Highroad cost over a hundred million dollars, it did not impact on the daily lives of the number of people and businesses or entail the community sacrifice that the closing of the Taneycomo Bridge will. Before our community pays that price and makes that sacrifice, is it totally inappropriate to ask to see an overall long term comprehensive transportation plan for solving the immediate and future transportation needs of those traveling, living, and working in Taney County east of Lake Taneycomo?

    You know, the overall plan developed jointly by MoDot and the principals most directly involved, the cities of Branson and Hollister, and Taney County. The one that presents a coordinated and agreed upon approach to solving the immediate and future transportation needs of the effected area. The more the Ole Seagull inquires about the existence of such a plan however the more he just gets a queasy Highroad déjà vu kind of feeling.

  • Branson’s Java Junction Koffeehouse is not just another “cookie cutter” coffee house!

    Branson’s Java Junction Koffeehouse.

    In a world full of coffee shops, seemingly on every corner, it is a joy to experience the uniqueness and inviting home like atmosphere of Branson’s “Java Junction Koffeehouse.” As would be expected, Java Junction has a full selection of coffee beans that can be ground to meet each customers wants, organic teas, delicious fresh brewed coffee and all the other coffee related drinks cappuccino, latte, espresso, etc. one would expect to find in a coffee shop but, it has so much more!

    When is the last time you were in a coffee shop and could buy fresh baked spinach pita or Greek extra virgin olive oil cold pressed from the first pressing, or a myriad of other hard to get Greek cooking ingredients and items? Ok, so that might not be what a person is normally looking for when they go into a coffee shop but it is a clue as to the Greek influence and friendliness that separates Java Junction from other big corporate “cookie cutter” coffee shops and the uniqueness of the experience that is “Java Junction.”

    Java Junction has organic juices and teas, wheat grass, Blue Bunny ice cream, smoothies, fresh bakery goods, cheese and spinach pitas, and, of course, a selection of Greek pastries including Baklava. For those that might want to sit down and enjoy themselves as they drink or eat, Java Junction provides a comfortable home like atmosphere complete with flat screen t.v.’s and free WIFI with a purchase.

    The operating manager of the Java Junction Koffeehouse is Samson Tsahiridis who, as the son of one Branson’s pioneer fine dining restaurateurs, Dimitri Tsahiridis, has had a life time of training and practical application in providing a quality dining experience to Branson’s visitors. From the menu selection, quality of the product served, store organization and set up, cleanliness, the friendliness and efficiency of the employees, and the home like atmosphere that has been created, it is obvious that the Tsahiridis tradition of providing Branson visitors with a great “food” experience continues.

    Branson Java Junction is located on the south side of Branson’s famous strip, at 2410 W. Highway 76, right across the street from Krispy Crème Donuts. It is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. and can be reached by phone at 417-337-JAVA (5282). What a great way to either start or end a day or just sit, sip a latte and watch t.v. or check your email.

  • #1 Hits of the 60’s: A Living History Lesson

    Why does history have to be so boring? It doesn’t have to be. Load up the family and take them to see something that is both educational and fun. Take them to see #1 Hits of the 60’s at the Jim Stafford theatre where history suddenly becomes fun again.

    The talented cast provides tremendous
    energy on stage.

    #1 Hits of the 60’s is performing this year in the Jim Stafford theatre. I’ve seen this production multiple times in various venues since it first began five years ago. I’ll admit I was a little concerned when I read that it would be at Jim Stafford’s theatre because of the intimate size of the theatre. I was worried that certain aspects of the show would have to be toned down to in order to compensate for the size of the theatre. After seeing the show I learned that my fears were unfounded and that the small size of the theatre added beautifully to the high-energy production. If you happen to get there early, I would recommend that you walk around outside and take in the beautiful landscaping outside the theatre. I’ve always thought that Jim Stafford’s theatre is one of the most beautiful landscaped theatres in Branson.

    Bright, colorful costumes
    help bring the 60’s to life.

    When you are first seated the 60’s experience begins as a groovy usher shows you to your seat. The female usher that seated me was really enjoying what she was doing and made the experience that much more fun. The show begins as the powerhouse cast hits you hard with the number one songs from 1960-1969. The momentum continues as you reminisce over popular TV show themes from the 60’s played by the talent members of the band. If you weren’t around or can’t remember the 60’s then you will be educated with the popular dance crazes of the time, and hear familiar songs as the cast pays special tribute to stellar artists like the Beatles, and the Beach Boys. Make sure you take in the groovy styles of the time as the cast constantly changes from one happenin’ outfit to another. I don’t know about you but this boy is glad he wasn’t around to wear those outrageous clothes, lol! Since I was not even a thought during the 60’s, the show really educated me in what the time was like and gave me, even for a couple of hours, a feeling of what it would have been like to live during this carefree and turbulent time. One helpful aide during my "road trip to the past" was the use of video screens that constantly reminded me of the artists that sang the songs, and various images of the people, and events that made the 60’s what it was.

    The little old "lady" from Pasadena
    makes an appearance.

    Standout moments from the show included the soulful sounds of the Motown segment, and the drive-in scene. Yes, those cars are really being driven around the stage. I don’t know about you but looks fun to me! The ending to the show is very unique to any show in town. All I will tell you about it is that you will be reminded of JFK, Martin Luther King Jr., Bobby Kennedy, and the dramatic "MacArthur Park."

    If you hear someone say, "Learning is no fun!" Take them to see #1 Hits of the 60’s. This show will be sure to change their mind. For tickets and information call 1-800-451-3791 or click here.

    Photos by Basil Groman – Complete gallery of photos here.

  • New Family Adventures at Branson’s Biggest Attractions!

    Silver Dollars City’s Giant Swing from the top!

    From the splashiest animal show to the region’s biggest water slide, from a giant thrill ride to the coolest show on ice, Branson’s biggest attractions, Silver Dollar City, Celebration City, and White Water, present all-new adventures for kids and families this summer.

    SILVER DOLLAR CITY

    Along with the new $6 million ride The Giant Swing, Silver Dollar City’s National Kids’ Fest, June 9 – August 12, showcases an all-new show, Circus of the Century – On Ice with acrobats, clowns and performing animals on ice skates. For hands-on fun, a new Kid Concoctions Creativity Center from an award-winning kids’ brand lets kids make their own Gooey Gunk or Splongee Ball, or learn to make a volcano. Basketball and comedy take center stage in Bounce – The All-American Basketball Show, and All-Star Dogs & Gold Medal Kids presents an athletic demonstration and spirited competition between young gymnasts and playful canines.

    CELEBRATION CITY

    In partnership with Animal Planet, Celebration City presents an all-new show: Animal Planet Sea Lion Splash, with South American sea lions performing feats of intelligence, balance and agility on land and in 7,000 gallons of water. Also new, feathers fly at the Parrot Party, featuring the extraordinary abilities of exotic parrots and macaws. Shows are daily from May 25 – August 19. With Veggie-Tales Silly Song Sing-Along, kids can belt out their favorite Veggie-Tales songs and meet the stars after the show. Joining Celebration City’s 30 rides and attractions is The Stinger – the new family thrill ride that whirls riders up and around in the air for high-speed, circular flight.

    300 foot drop on White Water’s Kalani Towers

    WHITE WATER

    New this year, White Water presents its biggest ride ever – Kalani Towers, a 7-story, 6-slide, multi-experience thrill ride. Named after the Hawaiian word meaning “Big Chief,” Kalani Towers is 75 feet high, with two 300-foot drop slides for top-speed body sliding and four additional 312-foot lane slides for four-lane speed racing. The new $1.5 million ride adds more ways to glide and slide at Branson’s Beach Within Reach — with nearly 7,000 feet of slides and 12 rides and attractions for the ultimate summer splashdown experience.

    For additional information call 1-800-451-3791 or 1-800-831-4FUN or, for on line ticket purchases or information click on the appropriate link, Silver Dollar City, Celebration City or White Water.

    Silver Dollar City, located near Branson, Missouri, is open daily during National Kids’ Fest, June 9 – August 12. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

    Celebration City, located in Branson, is open 3:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. The park is open daily May 25 – August 19, and Fridays and Saturdays September – October (also open Sept. 2, closed Sept. 29 and Oct. 6)

    White Water, located in Branson, is open May 25 – September 3. Hours are 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. through June 8; 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. June 9 – August 12, closing at 8 p.m. on Saturdays; and 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. August 13 – 19, 25-26, and Sept. 1-3.

  • BransonCourier.com Peoples Review: “Twelve Irish Tenors”

    Twelve Irish Tenors at Branson Variety Theatre

    The “Twelve Irish Tenors” opened their Branson appearances on July 5, 2007 and will be appearing at the Branson Variety Theatre until December 7, 2007. The “BransonCourier.com Peoples Review” of any show is a compilation of posts of the show posted to the “1Branson.Com Show Forum” by people who have seen the show and have taken the time to share their comments. Each Peoples Review will contain comments from more than one individual, assembled and edited by the Ole Seagull, include both the good and bad posts, as available and appropriate, and will be followed by the Ole Seagulls comments, if any. It should be noted that this show just opened on July 5, 2007. From the initial reviews this sounds like one that shouldn’t be missed!

    POSTED BY:: kbradleyar on July 5, 2007:

    I was in town for July 4th and went and saw some shows including my favorite Broadway/Spirit Of The Dance. When I picked up tickets, I was told that the Twelve Irish Tenors started tomorrow (July 5th). At that time, I was not sure of I was going to stay overnight in Branson or drive home. After it got rainy, I decided to stay over and go and see the Twelve Irish Tenors for their premiere show at 10:00am today (July 5).

    I was not really sure what to expect. I was thinking a lot of opera with a little other music thrown in. I WAS WRONG. For the entire 2 hour show, there were only 2 opera songs and 1/2 of that was an Elvis version of the opera song. BOTH of the opera numbers were done as good as I have EVER heard by any opera singer including Pavarotti. I enjoy opera if performed well and this wasn’t well, it was great.

    As I said there were only 2 opera songs out of the 2 hours, the rest of the songs were a mixture of ALL types of music. From Elvis, swing, Irish folk music, rock, and Broadway show tunes. The harmonies were wonderful. It made the music so smooth, it made you fell mellow and relaxed BUT the performers were putting so much energy into the performance that you could NOT get sleepy.

    The guys just don’t sing they also dance. There was one guy that was wonderful with his Irish dancing. But each number is choreographed so there are not a bunch of guys on the stage but they are moving, interacting with each other and more importantly: They seem to be having a good time. I know they do it daily but these guys act like it is a bunch of guys having a great time, not working hard to give a great performance.

    I was wondering if 12 guys on stage singing would get boring after 2 hours but NO, the guys are putting so much energy and fun into the songs, dancing, and production that it not only keeps you energized but it raises your spirit. I saw it at 10:00am and I am not a morning person and it not only got me going for the day, it put a smile on my face and helped me have a great day.

    Being their first show, the singer that was the spokesman kept calling "Branson", “RENO”. It turns out they just came from an engagement in Reno NV that ran for over 100 shows. I can understand it is hard to change the mindset. I also liked the fact that they introduced each singer before the show. I have always wished that Broadway and Spirit Of The Dance would introduce the dancers since they work so hard for the shows but they do not. I liked it that this show introduced each singer and each singer told their history.

    I really enjoyed the show. If you like wonderful songs, with fantastic voices, singing in perfect harmony, please go see the show. They are playing at the Branson Variety Theater. I know they are going to be in Branson for a few months but I don’t know the exact dates.

    POSTED BY: Oregonian on July 8, 2007

    My wife dragged me to this show Saturday and I was expecting 12 fat guys singing aria’s for two hours. Boy was I wrong! These 12 young (skinny) men each are so talented they could be featured soloists in any show. When they did Josh Groban’s “You Raise Me Up”, I actually got Goosebumps. We were thoroughly entertained. While looking at the schedule, I noticed they are having a Christmas show starting in November. I can’t wait for that!

    Ole Seagull’s Comments: This show, originally scheduled for a September opening opened on July 5. Except for the period 12-27 August, the Twelve Irish Tenors will be performing Monday through Saturday through November 1 and Sunday through Saturdays from November 1 through December 7. The times vary depending on the day with the preponderance of the schedule at the 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. slots. For further information, specific times, or to purchase tickets by phone call 1-800-451-3791 or 417-336-5134 or get online information here.

  • Was Branson’s “Bransongate” over annexation and strip clubs or ball games and dollars?

    The recent “Bransongate” embarrassment was couched in terms of preserving the “purity” of Branson’s name from those who would deflower it by the city’s senior unelected leadership and elected leadership, as it was composed prior to the April mayoral and aldermanic elections. But, is there just the possibility that the primary motivation was more concerned about getting one particular business to drop the term “Branson” from its name than anything else?

    What could possibly lead one to even think that? Well how about starting with the fact that there are only two businesses registered with the Missouri Secretary of State’s office with the term “Branson Sports” in them. One is “Branson Sports Club, Inc.” which was first registered with the state of Missouri on Apr. 9, 2003. It is a nonprofit corporation that lists its Registered Agent is Pamela Sue Dapprich, 414 Buchanan Road, Branson, Missouri 65615. The other is “Branson Sport Incorporated” which was first registered with the state on Aug. 29, 2005. It is a general business corporation that lists its Registered Agent as Jeffery Scott Nichols, 167 Jack Hollow Road, Walnut Shade, Missouri 65771.

    Interestingly, one of those two businesses was, and still is, involved in bringing sporting events into the city of Branson’s new RecPlex at a charge of hundreds of dollars per team thus providing direct and peripheral revenues for the city of Branson. It appears that at a time when the city of Branson was doing business with a entity having the name “Branson” in its name and either knew or should have known that it was outside the city limits of Branson, Branson Sports Incorporated of Walnut Shade, it sent the now infamous letter of Sep. 15, 2006 to the only other business in Missouri with “Branson Sports” in its name, Branson Sports Club, Inc.

    That was the letter signed by Branson City Attorney Paul Link sent only to “Branson Sports Club, Inc., informing them of the fact that “The City of Branson, Missouri owns the federally registered service mark BRANSON, MISSOURI” and that the use of the term “Branson” in its name was a deceptive trade practice and “constitutes trademark infringement under Section 32(1) of the Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C 1114(1); false designation of geographic origin under Section 43(a) of the Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. 1125(a); and violates state trademark statutes and common law principle of unfair competition and misappropriation?”

    The same letter that said, “Within 10 days of the date of this correspondence, we expect to receive from you a written undertaking that you will formally change the name of your business to delete all references to ‘Branson.’ Alternatively, if you would consent to annexation into the City of Branson when the City is ready to take you in, then we would not prohibit the use of ‘Branson’ in your name.”

    At first blush it would appear that there are two choices. However, when one considers that Pam Dapprich was very outspoken against annexation into the city of Branson, could not a reasonable person conclude that there was really only one viable intended choice left for Branson Sports Club, Inc., the deletion of all references to “Branson” from its name?

    “Oh come on Seagull, isn’t that a little far fetched?” Why, is it any less far fetched to believe that it is just a coincidence that a business having a name similar to a business working with the city to develop revenues for the Branson RecPlex, Branson Sports Club, Inc, got the type of letter it did when neither the business working with the city, Branson Sports Incorporated, or any other business entity received such a letter until things blew up in the city’s face?

    If an Ole Seagull were a betting Seagull he’d bet that the real reason the letter was sent to Branson Sport Club, Inc. was to try to get them to drop Branson out of its name, not to try to get them to annex into the city or otherwise help them. Unfortunately, when it’s ill advised, deceitful and intimidating letter became public and the city elected to react in the manner that it did, Bransongate became a sad and embarrassing part of Branson’s history.

  • Let’s “park” Branson Landing as the reason for downtown’s business “ouch!”

    A recent survey of about 30 businesses in Historic Downtown Branson is being used to define the current health of business in the Historic District. The results of the survey could be summed up in a paraphrase of a line written by Sir Walter Scott, “Breathes there a business with its soul so dead who never to itself hath said, “Ouch?”

    The survey shows that of the approximately 30 businesses surveyed, 90% suffered a decrease in sales and 10% received an increase in sales between March 2006 and December 2006 as compared to the same period in 2005. The businesses suffering a decrease in sales during the period suffered an average of a 19% decrease while those having a gain averaged only five percent.

    According to the survey, it doesn’t get any better in 2007. The same survey indicates that between March and May of 2007, 90% of the businesses surveyed suffered a decrease in sales and 10% received an increase in sales as compared to the same period in 2006. Even more astounding is the fact that the businesses suffering a decrease in sales during the period suffered an average of about 22% while those having a gain averaged 29%.

    The survey goes on to point out that it might be more than an “ouch” for a lot of businesses in Branson’s Historic District. About 37% of the businesses surveyed indicated that their business was in danger of having to close their doors, 50% said that their net profit was less in 2006 than in 2005 and 41% indicated that that they had to borrow money or use savings to reopen in 2007.

    Now a knee jerk reaction could be, “Why is anyone surprised, didn’t the city of Branson’s own consultants say that Branson’s existing retail establishments would take an 18 to 20% hit for the first two years that Branson Landing was open?” Yet, although the answer to that question is “Yes,” when the survey asked the question, “To what do you personally attribute your decrease?” only about 32% even mentioned the name of Branson Landing either directly or indirectly as being responsible for the decrease.

    About 26% of the survey’s answers said that inadequate parking was the cause of the decrease. Now some might say, “Well Seagull, if you add the 26% parking to the 32% related to Branson Landing isn’t that about 58% related to Branson Landing?” Not really because to do that, one would have to assume that the downtowns parking problems are all the fault of Branson Landing and that simply is not the truth.

    A public meeting between the Branson Board of Aldermen, Mayor Pressley, and downtown businesses held on Jun. 28 indicates there are a variety of reasons why there is not enough parking in the downtown area, not the least of which is the employees of businesses in the Historic Downtown area are parking in spaces intended for customers and a lot of the spaces are taken up by the construction of the convention center.

    The sad fact of the matter is that there is going to be a continuing parking problem in downtown Branson even after the construction on the convention center is done and it will not be the fault of Branson Landing. The new parking garage has about 498 spaces and the parking lot off the south end of the convention center has about 462 spaces for a total of about 960 spaces.

    Sounds good but what happens when 295 Hilton spaces are taken out of the new garage and about 110 or more of the spaces in the garage are rented out to downtown merchants on a monthly basis. How many spaces are left in the garage for the convention center and other public parking? Is it 93? What happens when there is a consumer show at the convention center that is drawing 3,000 visitors for the day? Don’t know for sure but it probably wouldn’t be a good idea to hold “Plumb Nellie Days” while it was going on.

    May an Ole Seagull suggest that one of the most immediate problems that downtown has is not Branson Landing but inadequate parking. Could part of a quick and efficient solution, that could be implemented almost immediately, be the addition of adequate signage throughout the downtown area saying, “2 Hour Parking Strictly Enforced- Fine $200” and the enforcement of downtown parking regulations on Saturday and Sunday?

  • Happy Birthday America – “Remember the Alamo”

    On March 3, 1836, Colonel William Barret Travis, the Commander of the Alamo, wrote to Texas Governor Smith, “…victory will cost the enemy so dear, that it will be worse for him than defeat.” In the early predawn hours of Sunday, March 6, 1836, after 12 days of almost constant bombardment and siege, the soldiers of Mexican General Santa Anna, numbering in the thousands, made their final assault on the Alamo, overwhelming and killing everyone of its 189 defenders.

    The prophetic words of Colonel Travis and the spirit of the Alamo manifested themselves, only 46 days after its fall, at the Battle of San Jacinto. The Mexican army, under Santa Anna, outnumbered the Texas army, under the command of General Sam Houston, by over a two to one margin. In spite of these odds, the Texas Army, inspired by the sacrifice of the Alamo defenders and shouting the battle cry, “Remember the Alamo,” defeated the Mexican army and captured Santa Anna.

    What is it about the Alamo that so inspired the Texas army at the Battle of San Jacinto and has touched the hearts and souls of generations since? What are we to remember? Was it their courage or that they spent their lives for a noble cause? Was it the fact that so few stood against so many for so long, the fact that the defenders of the Alamo could have elected not to give their lives in a battle they knew they could not win, or a combination of these factors?

    History records that on the first day of the Siege of the Alamo, Santa Anna had the scarlet flag of “no quarter” run up on San Fernando Church within the sight of the Alamo defenders. It meant surrender or die. Despite the odds against them, instead of surrender, it was answered with cannon fire from the defenders of the Alamo.

    Days into the siege, after receiving messages that no further help would be coming, Colonel Travis, explained the hopelessness of their situation. He gave the Alamo’s defenders a choice of escaping, surrendering and perhaps living, or of fighting on and the certainty of death. The chances of escape were pretty good as people had been going through the Mexican lines all during the siege.

    All, but one, chose to fight on. Unknown to them at the time however, was the special place in history where their choice would be forever enshrined. That place where the spirit of honor, dedication to purpose, valor, and willingness to sacrifice all, for a noble cause, is revered and preserved.

    Why, as James Bowie said, would they “…rather die in these ditches than give them up to the enemy?” Their individual reasons probably varied the nobleness of the cause, loyalty to each other and their country, honor, duty, freedom from tyranny, and, for some, like Bowie, the defense of their homes. They were however, bound together by the common threads of their courage, their belief that it was right and necessary to fight the army of Santa Anna at that time, in that place, no matter what the price, and in their commitment to pay that price.

    The spirit of “Remember the Alamo” represents that which is courageous, honorable, and worthy of commitment in the hearts of individuals and nations. It was in the hearts of the signers of the Declaration of Independence as, on July 4, 1776, they pledged their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor on behalf of a new nation. From July 4, 1776 to July 4, 2006, from Valley Forge to Bagdad, and countless places in between, America’s greatness, and very existence has depended on that “spirit” and those willing to commit and sacrifice their all for it.

    It is the “American Spirit,” the very lifeblood of our nation. May that Nation “Under God,” be eternally blessed with that spirit, for without it, She would not have been born and will not long endure. Happy Birthday America, Happy Birthday!