Author Archives: Gary Groman

Branson’s “acrobatic” action, spectacle and excitement

The synchronized unicylists are just one of the many exciting and colorful acts in the Acrobats of China.

BRANSON, Mo. “Branson’s acrobatic shows provide everyone in the family, from preschoolers to grandparents, or just about anyone else who enjoys watching the color, action, and excitement of shows featuring skilled acrobats and performers doing unusual feats of grace, daring, physical prowess and dexterity, with a wonderful and different Branson entertainment experience,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Like its music shows and other entertainment, Branson is all about giving its visitors a choice of quality entertainment options and fun for the whole family even within entertainment categories.”

Johnson points out that there are at least four Branson shows that fit within the genre of acrobatic type shows described above. Although each is unique, “The Acrobats of China,” “Cirque Montage,” “Legend of Kung Fu,” and “Yakov’s Dinner Adventure,” all fall within that genre.

Branson’s longest running show of this type, the Acrobats of China has been amazing Branson audiences since 1998. In a 2011 review of the show this writer said, “Everything involved with this show is about excellence, synchronization, excitement, precision, skill and entertainment. Even something as seemingly mundane as the beating of Chinese drums is turned into a colorfully synchronized entertainment experience that is amazing to see and hear. Acrobats of China is a virtual cornucopia of one amazing, entertaining, and exiting act after another that seamlessly melds into one grand choreographed entertainment experience for both adults and children.”

Cirque Montage made its premier Branson performance in 2009 and has been bringing its unique cirque style excitement back to Branson ever since. Its combination of the skill, daring, strength, grace, and agility of former artists with various Cirque du Soleil shows into one show, showcasing each individual performers unique talent, makes it unique among cirque shows. Judy Blake, one of the promoters of Cirque Montage has pointed out that in the typical cirque show there is a lot of other things going on concurrently while the individual artists are performing She has referred to Cirque Montage as “cirque lite” because the show emphasizes and focuses on the individual artists themselves as they perform and interact with the audience.

One of the spectacular sets from The Legend of Kung Fu.

The Legend of Kung Fu is a spectacular and colorful production of a simple story about a very young boy who is left at the temple by his mother to apprentice as a monk and learn the art and culture of Kung Fu. The story is told with beautiful choreography, spectacular sets, costuming and an extremely talented Chinese cast of dozens.. Factor in the mystique, culture and heritage of China along with the excitement and action of Kung-Fu and the result is an exciting and unique show with something for everyone to enjoy.

Yakov’s Dinner Adventure combines the skills “from 15 international acts” into an original “fairy tale” story involving relationships, love between sisters, young love found, betrayal, redemption, and, as would be expected, a happy fairy tale ending. The story is set in the exciting environment of a Russian Circus and, as it unfolds, is artfully woven around the acts in the circus and its characters. From the graceful performance on the aerial hoop high above the stage to the final act, a beautiful and exciting combination adagio dance and aerial silk act, Yakov’s Dinner Adventure is constant action, variety and entertainment for the whole family. As the title of the show suggests, dinner is also part of the show and its presentation is as wonderful as the food is tasty.

Experience the excitement and awakening of Spring in Branson

View the beauty of the Ozarks and Table Rock Lake from the top of "Wildfire." SDC's world class coaster.

BRANSON, Mo. From a temperature perspective, it seems as if the Winter of 2011-2012 forgot to come to a large part of the country including Branson, except in name. The unseasonably mild weather since Fall almost mutes the fact that the official first day of Spring begins at 12:14 (CDT) on March 20. Temperatures and weather aside however, as the other harbingers of Spring begin to manifest themselves, Branson’s Ozark Hills come to life, not only with their natural beauty, but with the sounds and sights of people simply having fun and enjoying themselves as they bask in the first natural blush of Spring.

The first wave of those celebrating Spring Break in Branson are just in time to experience the explosive natural beauty of the Ozarks with a spectacular display including the Bradford Pears, Dogwoods and Redbuds along with the opening of Branson’s great live shows, activities, shopping and attractions, including the opening of “Silver Dollar City.” The majority of Branson’s major attractions such as the Titanic Museum Attraction, “Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum,” “Hollywood Wax Museum,” “Veterans Memorial Museum” and many others are open year round, but Spring brings the excitement of the reopening of many of Branson’s other exciting seasonal attractions such as “Ride the Ducks,” “Branson Scenic Railway,” Branson’s many outdoor mini golf courses including “Shoot for the Stars Mini Golf” and of course, its biggest and most popular attraction, Silver Dollar City.

Silver Dollar City, Branson’s largest and most popular paid attraction, is an internationally recognized 1880’s style theme park that opened its 2012 season on March 15. The park features over 30 rides and attractions including its high-flying multi-looping world class roller coaster “WildFire” reaching speeds of up to 66 miles per hour; demonstrating craftsmen working at crafts that have been passed down from generation to generation; some of the best live shows in Branson; unique shopping and food and a series of world class festivals starting with “World-Fest,” the country’s largest international festival, running from April 12 through May 6

Spring brings freshness and renewal to most of Branson’s live shows as they present their new 2012 shows. From the addition of “Rumble in the Tree Tops” at “Dixie Stampede,” the spectacular new production of Joseph and shows as varied as the Acrobats of China, “The Baldknobbers Jamboree,” Presleys’ Country Jubilee, Haygoods, “it presented by the Hughes Brothers,” “the Duttons,” SIX, “George Dyer,” “Grand Jubilee,” Shoji Tabuchi, Pierce Arrow, “Jim Stafford,” “Doug Gabriel,” “Legends in Concert” and “Amazing Pets,” just to mention a few, Branson’s offers a variety of live entertainment that is unrivaled in any destination city of its size anywhere.

Branson is almost as famous for its shopping as it is for its live shows, attractions and other activities. “Branson Landing,” with its lakeside location, fire and water show, restaurants, “Bass Pro Shop” and 100 other retail shops, two factory discount malls, countless specialty shops in historic downtown Branson and throughout Branson provide a unique and unparalleled shopping opportunity.

Spring activities for a lot of people include golf. The mild winter and excellent course maintenance has Branson’s world class golf courses, including the Payne Stewart Golf Course at Branson Hills, Thousand Hills, Pointe Royale and Branson Creek, among others, ready to provide a great golfing experience for the seasoned champion tournament player and challenge for the beginner as well as.

Stephanie Milton, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, also reminds potential visitors that the Spring of 2012 will be very special in Branson. The city of Branson is celebrating its Centennial with special activities on April 1 and 15 and the Titanic Museum Attraction is celebrating the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic during 2012, including a Night to Remember on April 14 and other events. For additional information on any of the shows, attractions, events or activities mentioned in this article please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

The “Dogs of Branson”

Informal moment with Todd Oliver and his "talkative" canine friends Irving, left, Elvis and Lucy

BRANSON, Mo. For everyone who has heard about the “Dogs of the Dow” investment strategy, there are probably hundreds, if not thousands, that haven’t heard about the “Dogs” of Branson.” It’s time to change all that and introduce you to some of the “Dogs of Branson,” the most talkative “Irving,” “Lucy,” and “Elvis;” the cutest “Molly” and Carter” and the zaniest “Chico Pete.”

“Irving,” a Boston Terrier; “Lucy,” a West Highland mix and “Elvis,” a Basset Hound are “talking dogs” who work with their partner, Todd Oliver in the Todd Oliver and Friends show . They present one of the most unique and funny entertainment experiences not only in Branson, but anywhere. As Irving says, “If you can’t laugh at a talking dog you probably own a cat!”

David Letterman has proclaimed Oliver one of the “Top Ventriloquists in The World!” He and his canine friends have appeared on Letterman’s show, “The Today Show”, “Walker Texas Ranger” and many more. In addition to his talking dogs, Oliver’s Branson show also includes the “Smiling Eyes Band,” and a “cast” of characters including “Pops,” “Miss Lilly,” and “Joey.”

The cute Molly and Carter with Titanic First Class Maid Jaynee and Captain Smith.

Any of the other “Dogs of Branson” would be hard pressed to displace the Titanic Museum Attraction’s “Molly” and “Carter” as Branson’s cutest dogs. The two adorable King Charles Spaniels are the Titanic’s mascots.

As part of their duties, when the ship’s whistle blows at noon, they come around the bow and promenade down the winding walkway and past the waterfall to the iceberg by the museum’s entrance where they “greet” the ships guests and pose for pictures. In addition, passengers on the Titanic are likely to meet them either as they walk through the ship with their handlers or while they spend time relaxing in their lavish climate controlled “kennel” aboard the ship.

Jim Barber and the zany Chico Pete

“Chico Pete,” unlike the other “Dogs of Branson,” is not actually a “dog,” but “he” is probably the most zany, unique and funny “Chihuahua” most will ever meet. Chico sings, talks and performs in the Hamner Barber Variety Show with his buddy, nationally known ventriloquist and comedian, Jim Barber. Barber, has been on the Dave Letterman Show and won numerous awards and together, in the opinion of this writer, the crazy, entertaining and audience pleasing antics of “Chico” not only qualifies “him” to join the ranks of “The Dogs of Branson,” but makes him their zaniest member. It should be pointed out that “Chico” is just one small part of the great magic, comedy and entertainment making up the Hamner Barber Variety Show.

Tornado shouldn’t interrupt Branson Spring Break or vacation plans

Titanic Museum Attraction earlier today in all her Spring Break splendor

BRANSON, Mo. In the wake of the tornado that hit Branson during the early morning hours of February 29 some might ask, “Why should I plan to visit or vacation in Branson?” The answer is simple. For the same reason that you would have come to Branson before the tornado, to have a great time with your family and enjoy the unique exciting experience that only Branson can provide.”

That potentially raises another question, “But is it the same experience after the storm as before?” Without diminishing in any way the anguish and damage suffered by those whose lives or property was impacted by the storm, Stephanie Milton, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center, one of the largest providers of Branson travel services says, “The answer to that question would have to be a resounding, ‘Yes.'”

Yesterday, while at Scotty’s Trout Dock in downtown Branson, I received confirmation of that fact from a chance encounter. A man came into the office with his two sons and rented a pontoon boat. As he was out in the boat rigging up the rods they would use to fish we started to talk and “shoot the breeze.”

I did not get his name, because we just talking and shooting the breeze at the time, but he is from Memphis, TN and had never been to Branson before. He and his family decided to come and spend their “Spring Break” in Branson because they had heard a lot of great things about it and, although they own a lake property nearer to Memphis, they decided they wanted to try something different this year.

When asked if the tornado had almost caused them not to come he said that it had not, because when they “checked it out” they decided that they could do anything they wanted to do. During their week in Branson, among other things, they plan to go trout fishing and can check that one off their list; see SIX; visit the Hollywood Wax Museum, the Titanic Museum Attraction and go to Silver Dollar City later in the week.

Given that Branson was hit by an EF-2 tornado, the blessing is that it’s direct impact on the lives, property and economy of the area it tracked over was no greater than it was. Media sensationalism to the contrary, the reality is that there were no fatalities; relatively few injuries and, as this family found out, the vast majority of the property over which the tornado passed was left undamaged including the vast majority of the attractions, shows, shopping and other activities that are the foundation of Branson’s tourism based economy and provide the fun, excitement and adventure for which Branson is famous.

Branson Tourism Center’s Milton adds that from a fun and entertainment perspective, the Branson named as one of 2012’s Best Family Vacation Destinations by Away.com, a division of Orbitz.com, is ready to provide your family with one of the most exciting, unique and entertaining vacations they will ever experience. For additional information about Branson and all it has to offer, please contact the Branson Tourism Center one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Spring Break starts Silver Dollar City’s biggest festival and show year ever

The beauty of the Ozarks with a glimpse of Table Rock Lake from the top of SDC's world class coaster "Wildfire."

BRANSON, Missouri – March 6, 2012 “As great as Silver Dollar City already is, it seems like it just keeps outdoing itself in a constant quest to provide its guests with a fresh, exciting and memorable experience every season,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “The addition of new shows, events and expanded festivals’ shows that 2012 is certainly not going to be an exception.”

Silver Dollar City starts its 2012 season on March 15, the first day of its “Family Spring Break Days.” This first event of its 2012 season not only provides families and those on Spring Break a opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Ozarks during the Spring, but to ” be among the first to launch into the 2012 season on the thrill ride ‘PowderKeg,’ soar above the high flying, multi-looping cobra rolling roller coaster ‘WildFire,’ and fly over seven stories high on the ‘Giant Swing.’ The Grand Exposition includes 10 rides ranging from the Magnificent Wave Carousel to the Royal Tea Party. Entertainment includes Doc Gizmo Science Theatre, making science fun with amazing experiments.”

The full 2012 schedule of Silver Dollar City’s Special Events is as follows:

Family Spring Break Days – March 15-18; March 22-25
Young Christian Weekend – March 30 – April 1
Easter Weekend – April 5-7
World-Fest – April 12 – May 6
Bluegrass & BBQ – May 10 – June 3
National KidsFest – June 9 – July 22
Independence Day – July 4
Moonlight Madness – July 21 – August 5
Southern Gospel Picnic – August 24 – September 3
Country Music Weekend – September 8-9
National Harvest Festival – September 13 – October 27
An Old Time Christmas – November 3 – December 30

Although not on its “2012 Special Events Calendar,” Silver Dollar City will also be hosting “Midwest’s Premier Christian Youth Event: Young Christians’ Weekend. March 30-April 1.” This event will include Christian performers including “The Museum,” “The Afters!,” “Chris August” and much more.

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson says that all the activities involved with Silver Dollar City’s festivals and events are in addition to everything else that the internationally award winning 1880s-style theme park offers, including 30 rides and attractions, demonstrating craftsmen, shows and restaurants. She also points out that those purchasing their Silver Dollar City tickets through the Branson Tourism Center get a bonus day, two days for the price of one.

For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Branson is a “whirlwind” of entertainment. fun and excitement

Picture of Dixie Stampede, located not 150 feet from the Dick Clark ' American Bandstand Theatre, which, like the vast majority of Branson's tourist related businesses, was left virtually unscathed by the tornado.

Leap Year Day 2012 is not a day most in Branson will ever forget, as an EF-2 Tornado seemingly hop skipped along through Branson traveling west to east down the famed “Branson Strip,” Highway 76. Almost with surgical precision it hit certain properties and missed others, damaged some more than others and moved on without having caused any fatalities or damaging the vast majority of Branson’s entertainment infrastructure.

National media coverage to the contrary, the reality is that Branson, although hit just two short day ago by a tornado, is ready to provide its visitors with the same great vacation and entertainment experience for which it is known. That might be hard for some to believe based on the “disaster biased reporting” they have been bombarded with this week by national and regional news coverage of the event.

As they filled the airways with pictures showing damaged theatres and properties, they completely ignored another reality of what happened. Unlike in Joplin and other areas hit by tornadoes and the picture of complete devastation they were trying to “paint,” the tornado that hit Branson did not wipe out a wide swath of everything in its path, but rather, almost with surgical precision, hit one spot and jumped on to the next as it moved through Branson leaving everything in between unscathed. The result, although devastating to those properties it hit, is that the vast majority of Branson’s businesses, shows, attractions, shopping and other activities were not damaged by the tornado.

Clay Cooper Theatre Branson MO Mar 1, 2012

The day after Branson's Leap Day tornado, the Clay Cooper Theatre is still ready to open on schedule.

The “disaster mentality” biased reporting of the national and regional media chose to emphasize a relative small part of the reality of what happened and is happening. As they showered the nation with pictures of damaged theatres, such as “Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theatre,” they failed to report on the reality that just across the street was “Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede,” which, like the vast majority of Branson’s theatres, attractions and entertainment infrastructure was not damaged. As they reported on a “Branson Strip” that was, at the moment, closed to traffic and littered with windblown debris and utility poles, they failed to report that it was expected to be clear and open to traffic the next day.

As this is being written, the Branson Strip is open, as are the vast majority of Branson’s shows, attractions, shopping and other activities, to receive visitors and provide them with the same great entertainment experience it always has. Steve Presley of Presleys’ Country Jubilee, Branson’s first show on the Branson Strip said, “Opening our 46th season in the same location on Hwy 76 just became a little more special with this week’s tornado. While offering our prayers and sympathies to those impacted by the tornado, we are thankful that our theater received no damage and we will be opening right on schedule next Friday March 9th at 8 pm.”

Presley’s sentiment and what is happening at his theatre is exactly what is happening all around Branson. While praying and caring about those who were impacted by the tornado, Branson is preparing to do the one thing it does best; providing the same unique, fun filled and exciting vacation experience it always has as it and enabling its guests to “Experience memories that will last a life time.”

Note: For continuous updates and information relating to the status of Branson after the tornado, click here.

Branson Mayor expects famed Branson Strip to reopen tomorrow

BRANSON, MO. In a telephone interview completed earlier this evening, Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley said that she was so grateful for the support shown to Branson by so many and reiterated her thankfulness that so few were injured and there were no fatalities as a result of the EF-2 Tornado that hit Branson during the early morning hours today. She expressed her concern and sympathy to the businesses that were directly hit by the storm.

When asked when the Branson Strip would reopen she said that the western end was never closed and that crews are working hard installing poles and other infrastructure necessary to completely restore power and expects that the closed portion will be reopened sometime tomorrow. She points out that the vast majority of Branson’s theatres, attractions and other activities were not damaged by the storm and will continue providing Branson visitors with the same great experience for which Branson is famous.

Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center points out that Branson’s 2012 season is just beginning to unfold. In addition to most of its major attractions being open this week the following shows are scheduled to perform this weekend with more opening up next weekend:

A Tribute to Marty Robbins
Comedy Jamboree
Dixie Stampede
Grand Jubilee
Hank Williams Revisited
Haygoods
Hamner Barber Variety Show
it at the Hughes Brothers Theatre
Ozark Mountain Jubilee
Ozark Murder Mysteries
Pierce Arrow
SIX
Sunday Gospel Jubilee
The Petersen Family Bluegrass Band

For additional information on the status of the storms effect on Branson, these Branson shows or the other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements in Branson, please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550, through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com or via Facebook at www.facebook.com/bransontourismcenter.

Tornado has minimal impact on Branson entertainment

This picture of Dixie Stampede, taken the afternoon of March 2, as is the case with the vast majority of Branson's theatres and attractions, shows no indication of any damage from the tornado that passed through Branson earlier this week.

CURRENT BRANSON TORNADO INFORMATION (Timeline starts with most current information at the top. For additional information please contact the Branson Tourism Center by calling 1-800-785-1550, through its website www.BransonTourismCenter.Com or on Facebook at facebook.com/bransontourismcenter.

UPDATE: BRANSON, Mo. (March 5, 4:00 p.m.) The Veteran’s Memorial Museum – It has been reported in various news outlets that sustained major damage during the storm. According to June Tillis, the museum director, “We’re A-OK. The plane and sculpture in front of the museum were damaged, but the museum itself is fine. Power was restored to the museum this morning and we are welcoming our veterans and other visitors as we have been for more than a decade.”

UPDATE: BRANSON, Mo. (March 5, 10:00 a.m.) Entire Branson Strip from Highway 65 to western end is reopened.

UPDATE: BRANSON, Mo. (March 4, 10:00 a.m.) Tornado has no impact on the 21st NAIA Division II Men’s National Basket Ball Tournament taking place in Branson this week at the College of the Ozarks starting with their Opening Ceremony at Dixie Stampede on Tuesday, March 6. The tournament itself runs from March 7 through March 13 and is expected to draw 16,000 to 20,000 people to Branson during the week.

UPDATE: BRANSON, Mo. (March 3, Noon) Wal-Mart on Highway 76 is reopens except for the “Tire and Lube” service area located at the east end of the building.

UPDATE: BRANSON, Mo. (March 3, 8:00 a.m.) The Branson Convention Center and Hilton Convention Center Hotel are closed, but expected to reopen within 100 days according to Bill Tirone, Assistant General Manager of the Branson Convention Center Hotel. In the meantime, Tirone’s staff is rescheduling events at other Branson facilities and finding other accommodations for guests scheduled to stay at the hotel during its rehabilitation.

UPDATE: BRANSON, Mo. (March 2, 6:00 p.m.) Controlled Access to Certain Portions of Highway 76 after 11:00 p.m. The City of Branson Police Department will allow limited pedestrian and vehicular access to Highway 76 tonight between the hours of 11:00 pm to 6:00 am. This limited access area will range along Highway 76 between Roark Valley Road and Highway 165. This limitation is being made for the safety and security of properties affected during the tornado event. A similar restriction was in place over the last two nights, and Branson Police are pleased to report no major incidents occurring. Visitors will be able to get to and from the shows playing this evening, and to and from their hotels and restaurants.

UPDATE: BRANSON, Mo. (March 2, 2012, 12:30 p.m.) – New article added about the state of Branson after the tornado. Click here to view it.

UPDATE: BRANSON, Mo. (March 2, 11:00 a.m.) Branson Landing reopens. Tammy Scholten, Director of Marketing for the Branson Landing advises that starting today, Branson Landing will be open regular business hours. Retailers on the north end of Branson Landing from Belk to Town Square and retailers on the south end of Branson Landing from Bass Pro Shops to Famous Dave’s will be accessible through their normal mall entrances. Retailers receiving the heaviest damage between Famous Dave’s and Town Square will be opening as they are ready over the next few days. The Branson Landing fountains will begin their hourly performances at Noon today.

UPDATE: BRANSON, Mo. (March 1, 2012, 4:30 p.m.) – Branson Strip Reopening – Thanks to the “heroics” of everyone involved the famed “Branson Strip,” Highway 76, is now reopened to traffic.

Taken in the early afternoon on February 29, like the majority of Branson's Theatres, this picuture shows that the Clay Cooper Theatre was not damaged by the tornado.

UPDATE: BRANSON, Mo. (March 1, 2012, 4:30 p.m.) Shows and Attractions – Although the vast majority of Branson’s theatres and attractions were not damaged by the tornado, the following did receive damage and are listed alphabetically below along with their current status:

SHOWS

Baldknobbers Jamboree – opening night is postponed until 8:00 p.m. Mar. 8
Americana Theatre – Closed pending repairs.
Branson Variety Theater – Closed pending repairs.
Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theatre – Closed for repairs
Hot Hits Theatre – Closed pending repairs*
Icon Theatre – General Manager Barrie Cunningham, said that the minor damage the theatre received will not affect the theatre’s scheduled opening on March 22.
Owens Theatre – Closed pending repairs*

*Located in historic downtown Branson

ATTRACTIONS

Adventure Helicopter Tours – Closed pending repairs
Branson Auto Museum – Closed pending repairs.
Branson Veterans Museum – Closed pending repairs
Dinosaur Museum – Closed pending repairs
The Track #4 Location for the Track Family Fun Parks – Closed pending repairs.
Lost Treasure Mini Golf – Closed pending repairs

UPDATE: BRANSON, Mo. (March 1, 2012, 4:30 p.m.) Branson Landing – Tammy Scholten, Director of Marketing for the Branson Landing advises that “Branson Landing has made significant progress in the clean-up of the promenade from the high winds/tornado that swept through Branson on February 29, 2012. In an effort to safely continue the clean-up today, Thursday, March 1st, Branson Landing will remain closed.

“Keeping Branson Landing closed one more day will allow us to expedite the contractor work that needs to continue so we can return the Landing to a clean, safe and secure shopping center for our shoppers,” said David Ayer, General Manager. Bass Pro Shops and Belk are open for business today and it is anticipated that the majority of retailers and restaurants will be open for business tomorrow morning, Friday, March 2, 2012.”

UPDATE: BRANSON, Mo.(Mar. 1, 2012 6:30 a.m.) Tammy Scholten, Director of Marketing for the Branson Landing advises that Branson Landing’s two main anchors. Belks and Bass Pro Shops remain open. The restaurants and stores within the Promenade are closed for safety reasons while glass and other debris is being cleaned up and some windows replace and, although there is no specific date, should reopen shortly.

UPDATE: BRANSON, Mo.(Feb. 29, 2012 10:00 p.m.) A spokesperson for the city of Branson said the tornado has had no impact on the city’s Lakeside RV park and it remains open and ready for business.

The Branson Variety Theatre was one of the few theaters that suffered damage during the tornado...

UPDATE: BRANSON, Mo.(Feb. 29, 2012 5:00 p.m.) Just got off the phone with Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley. She said that she was so grateful for the support shown to Branson by so many. When asked when the Branson Strip would reopen she said that the western end was never closed and that crews are working hard installing poles and the other infrastructure necessary to completely restore power and expects that the closed portion will be reopened sometime tomorrow.

BRANSON, Mo (Feb 29, 2012, 1:00 p.m.) February 29 turned out to be more than simply the day that makes 2012 Leap Year as what is believed to be an EF-2 Tornado hit the Branson area during the early morning hours. Although some businesses, most of which are being featured in the national and other media, were damaged, the vast majority of Branson’s major attractions and shows received minimal if any damage and will be open for business as soon as Thursday.

Branson Missouri Tornado 2012 west part of the strip

Thankfully, most Branson businesses were spared damage from the tornado.

During an early morning press conference about the tornado, Branson Mayor, Raeanne Presley, while acknowledging the tornado’s damage, stressed what a blessing it was that there were only minor injuries and that there were no fatalities. She also pointed out that the vast majority of Branson’s major attractions, shows and other activities that the millions of visitors coming to Branson every year enjoy, were not damaged by the storm and will be ready to entertain Branson visitors as soon as Thursday.

The primary emphasis is on getting the power restored and opening those portions of the Branson Strip that are temporarily closed for clean up and the restoration of power. Tammy Johnson, Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) said, “We have been in contact with most of the major shows, attractions, and other Branson activities and they indicate as soon as power and access is restored they are ready to open.

Lisa Rau, the Director of Public Relations for Silver Dollar City, Branson largest and most popular attraction, the 1880s styled them park Silver Dollar City said there was no damage. She said that they are eagerly looking forward to their opening on March 15. She also pointed out that the Show Boat Branson Belle, Ride the Ducks, and White Water will open on schedule as well. Mary Kellogg, the owner of the Titanic Museum Attraction, said there was no damage and would be accepting passengers as soon as power is restored.

Johnson suggests contacting the Branson Tourism Center for further current information by either calling 1-800-785-1550, through its website www.BransonTourismCenter.Com or via Facebook at facebook.com/bransontourismcenter.

Branson Centennial is a celebration of history, heritage, fun and excitement

The gravestone of Ruben Branson, the man Branson is named after, is readily visible. without having to go into the cemetery, from the northwest corner of the intersection of Okalahoma and Commerical Streets in historic downtown Branson.

BRANSON, Mo. In 1882, when Ruben S. Branson started a general store near the mouth of Roark Creek and the White River and named the post office “Branson” he had no idea of what was to follow. Who could have known that decades later the railroad would come down Roark Creek into the heart of a developing community benefiting not only from the intense logging industry in the area, but the building of the Power Site Dam on the White River near Forsyth and the tourism resulting from the publishing of the epic story of life in the Ozarks, Harold Bell Wright’s novel, “The Shepherd the Hills?”

Interestingly, all that took place prior to the incorporation of “Branson” as a city. In fact, in 1902 the name of the post office was changed to “Lucia” as competing sites and interests tried to get land and plat their own towns. The issue was settled in 1903 when Charles Fulbright and his “Branson Town Company” acquired both town sites and the name of the post office was changed back to “Branson” in 1904. A short eight years later the city of “Branson” was incorporated on April 1, 1912.

As the city of Branson begins the celebration of its Centennial Year, it might be appropriate to note that Branson’s first show, The Baldknobbers Jamboree was 47 years away as was Table Rock Lake, Silver Dollar City was 48 years away and its first show on the now famous “Branson Strip,” Presley’s Country Jubilee was 55 years away. Yet today, as the city of Branson celebrates its Centennial, an estimated 8 million visitors a year come to Branson making it “Missouri’s top vacation destination.”

Why do they come? “To experience all that Branson has to offer,” says Stephanie Milton, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “Where else in America’s heartland, or perhaps anywhere, can a person go and experience the unique combination of 100 plus live shows, attractions, family entertainment, shopping, water activities, championship golfing and everything else Branson has to offer? What other destination has so beautifully integrated the entertainment, adventure and excitement of what it offers into the surrounding natural beauty of its magnificent and spectacular hills, valleys, lakes and hollows?”

Branson’s Centennial, “100 YEARS OF BRANSON, MISSOURI – a Story of Heritage, Harmony and Hospitality” has events scheduled to run from April 1 through July 7 with the “Centennial Heritage Museum” remaining open from April 1 throughout, at least, the rest of the year. It is a celebration of Branson’s history, heritage and spirit combined with all the fun and excitement that makes Branson such a wonderful family vacation destination.

The “Centennial Kick-Off Event” will be on April 1, exactly 100 years to the day from Branson’s initial incorporation, in its historic downtown district. The day will begin with the dedication and opening of the “Centennial Heritage Museum,” with the National Anthem being sung by Branson tenor George Dyer, comments by Branson’s Mayor Raeanne Presley and other dignitaries and other entertainment. Bogie Bohinc, the producer of the festivities that will follow, said that the entire historic downtown area will be a celebration of fun, action and entertainment until 4:00 p.m., including street performances; horse and buggy rides; bands; music of all genres from Bluegrass to Dixieland and much more including a “few surprises.”

Throughout the Centennial, there are a number of activities and events contributing to the excitement of the celebration. These include Silver Dollar City, Branson’s award winning 1880s styled theme park; the Titanic Museum Attractions “A Night to Remember,” on April 14, providing a once in a lifetime opportunity to participate in the 100th year remembrance of the fateful night the great ship sank in the north Atlantic; the Branson Centennial Celebration Show on April 15; the “52nd Annual Plumb Nellie Days Arts and Crafts Festival” in historic downtown Branson, May 17 through 19 and “Branson’s 100th Fest and Street Dance” on July 7.

Ross Summers, President/CEO, Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau, said, “Throughout the town, our community welcomes you to our once-in-a-lifetime celebration. And our birthday wish is that you leave with a rekindled spirit and renewed hope for the next century.”

Branson Tourism Center’s (BTC) Milton suggests that Branson visitors make advance reservations for shows and lodging during the Centennial to ensure they get not only availability, but the seating and accommodations desired. She also points out that there is a limited number of VIP tickets available for the Titanic Museum Attractions “A Night to Remember,” on April 14 and that BTC’s exclusive package for the event also includes a special keepsake coin incorporating an actual segment of a piece of coal that has been brought up from the Titanic.

For additional information on Branson’s Centennial Celebration, any of the events connected to it or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please feel free to contact BTC, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

AAA Midwest Traveler shares 10 surprising things about Branson you didn’t know

The magnificent Showboat Branson Belle is just one of the many fun things for families to share in Branson.

BRANSON, Mo. An article entitled, “10 Things You Didn’t Know About Branson, Mo,”* written by Marge Peterson, is featured in the March-April edition of AAA’s “Midwest Traveler Magazine.” It said that Branson is one of the “Midwest’s most popular vacation spots” and that a “multitude of stories have been written about Branson over the years about the music, theatres, stars, water recreation and the natural beauty of the area.”

After inquiring as to the depth of the reader’s knowledge about Branson, in a rhetorical sense, the article offers “10 Branson tidbits that may surprise you.” From the “King of Branson,” to “Mullets and Music,” and the “City’s Deepest Darkest Secret,” this interesting article about the city some call the “Live music show capital of the world,” shares 10 “tidbits” about Branson “that may surprise you. “One thing for sure though,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, “surprising or not, they illustrate the variety and depth of the fun, excitement and adventure that Branson offers.”

From a date perspective, two things are mentioned; the fact that the city of Branson, incorporated on April 1, 1912, is celebrating its Centennial and that the Titanic Museum Attraction is remembering the 100th Anniversary of the sinking of the RMS Titanic in 1912. Johnson points out that there will be special events in connection with each. For example, on April 14 a special VIP event, “A Night To Remember,” will be held as the Titanic Museum Attraction remembers the tragic sinking with a day full of tributes, choral groups, the lighting of the Titanic Eternal Flame and the launching of distress fire rockets as the “once-in-a-lifetime event, not to return for 100 years,” concludes.

Other tidbits in the article include how the magnificent Showboat Branson Belle was launched in 1994 with tons of bananas lubricating the launch ramp as she slid into Table Rock Lake; the world class fishing offered in Branson’s three lakes, Lake Taneycomo, Table Rock and Bull Shoals Lake’s that make Branson a fisherman’s “Paradise;” America’s largest Veterans Day celebration, “Branson Veterans Homecoming;” the many animals involved with Sight and Sound’s spectacular production of Joseph which will be premiering in Branson on April 14; interesting facts on Branson’s “popular and insightful comedian, Yakov Smirnoff;” the initial challenges Shoji Tabuchi faced and the uniqueness of his theatre’s restrooms, how “3 Redneck Tenors” get to Carnegie Hall and the wonder’s of Silver Dollar City‘s Marvel Cave. Some might say, “But you haven’t told us who is the “King of Branson” and what the “The City’s Deepest Darkest Secret” is.

Johnson would suggest that, although in terms of the article, the answers are contained above, that the real “King of Branson” is each of the millions of guests who visit it each year and that Branson’s “deepest secret” is not dark at all. It is the simple fact that there is not a place on earth that offers families the combination of spirit, natural beauty, water recreation, entertainment, excitement, shopping and adventure that Branson offers. “The 10 things that people don’t know about Branson illustrates one big reason for families to plan to spend their vacation in Branson, during 2012,” she added.

Johnson said that the knowledgeable staff of the Branson Tourism Center would be happy to help in answering any questions about Branson that people might have or assist them in planning a trip or vacation to Branson experience. The Branson Tourism Center can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

*Article based on review of hard copy of issue. No link provided because, as of the time of the posting of this article, none was available on the AAA Midwest Traveler site.