Seagull Musings Column for March 28, 2004
In the opinion of an Ole Seagull, Mayor “Lou,” the Branson Board of Aldermen, and City Administrator Terry Dody should be commended for the leadership they have provided our community. If the participation in city meetings, elections, public reaction or inaction, and business investment in our community are any indication, it’s pretty obvious that the citizens and property owners of Branson seem pretty satisfied with the way things are going.
That’s a remarkable accomplishment in view of the major changes that are taking place within our community. An accomplishment that is made even more significant when one considers the diversity of egos, opinions, economic interests, and personalities of the individuals, organizations, and businesses that make up our community.
“Hold on Seagull, haven’t you written columns, as recently as last week, that were critical of certain actions that they have either taken or failed to take and the way the actions were taken.” Sure, in discussing the issues facing this community there have been all sorts of columns about a lot of things, some critical some not but then that’s what this column does. It provides an Ole Seagulls opinion and perspective, such as they are, on specific issues that affect our community.
“But how can you commend them?” It’s really not too hard. At the end of the day, with all the news, columns, and cartoons that have been published about the major issues facing our community over the last couple of years, one would have to say, based on the recent public record, that the majority of Branson’s citizens, businesses, and property owners have little or no problem with either the direction the city is heading or its leadership.
“What do you base that on?” It’s based on a very simple concept, the lack of public reaction or action which, for all practical purposes, amounts to an endorsement of the status quo. “What do you mean?” How about elections? If people weren’t satisfied with their elected leadership why are two out of three candidates for alderman running unopposed? Why wasn’t a new mayor elected last year?
How about participation in public meetings? Has anyone noticed anything except scattered individual opposition to issues like Branson Landing, the expansion of alcohol into theatres, the convention center etc. over the last year or so?
“Gotcha there Seagull, wasn’t that a pretty good group that showed up last summer for Alderman Purvis’s expected “no expansion of alcohol into theatres” resolution?” Sure was, for one night, but when it turned out to be the “Purvis Ain’t No Alcohol Here Resolution,” they all “disappeared” except for Chuck Pennel and John Logan who have steadfastly persisted week after week. “But aren’t those who ‘disappeared’ praying for Chuck and John to succeed?”If they are they better pray harder.
“Well, what about the public opposition to the Branson Landing and the convention center?” What about it? Where is it? The Ole Seagull has attended just about every public meeting held on both.He hasn’t seen any sustained viable opposition to it in over a year. Again, based on the recent public record it appears that the majority of Branson’s citizens, businesses, and property owners are satisfied with the city’s leadership in this area and that the Branson Landing and its convention center is a done deal.
“But Seagull, you don’t support the building of a convention center downtown, the selection of Bass pro as an anchor, the expansion of the serving of alcoholic beverages into Branson’s theatres and attractions, etc.”That’s true but so what! It’s but the opinion of one tired Ole Seagull whose opinion is worth no more than anyone else’s and, based on the recent public record over the last year or so, is obviously in the minority.
Besides, what’s not to like? Branson has an outstanding police and fire department with a road, sewer and water system and professional city staff that would be the envy of similarly sized cities. Look at the building that is going on, restaurants, office space, and even a new theatre. Is it logical to assume that this type of investment would be made without faith in Branson’s potential and its leadership?
“Does this mean that you won’t be writing columns critical of the city, its administration, policies, or Board of Aldermen anymore?” Give me a break! The Ole Seagull’s not suggesting “sainthood” just that we keep things in perspective and acknowledge the truth of what the public record shows the community thinks of their leadership. “But couldn’t the public record be wrong?” It is what it is.
Gary Groman, a.k.a. “The Ole Seagull,” is an independent columnist and the editor of the Branson Courier. He may be reached by clicking here or by calling 417-339-4000.
