Author Archives: Gary Groman

Plungers Freezin’ for a Reason as Branson Polar Plunge benefits Special Olympics of Missouri

Be a Polar Bear for the 2012 Branson Polar Plunge .

BRANSON, Mo. At 2 p.m. on February 11 some special people are going to be “Freezin’ for a Reason” as they plunge into the cold water of Table Rock Lake in the 7th Annual Branson Polar Plunge. The reason the participants, appropriately designated as “Plungers,” will be “freezin'” is to support the more than 1,700 athletes in the Southwest Area of the “Special Olympics of Missouri (SOMO).” The 2011 Branson Polar Plunge raised more than $30,000 for the Special Olympic Athletes. The goal for the 2012 is $34,000.

Branson’s Polar Plunge will be held at the marina of the Still Waters Resort, 21 Still Water Trail, just south of Silver Dollar City in Indian Point, Road . Registration starts at Noon and the Plunge itself is right after the “Plunger Parade of Costumes,” at 2 p.m. After the Plunge there will be “free food, music and a silent auction” at the Post Plunge Party that will be held at the Best Western Branson Inn and Conference Center in Branson West.

Stephanie Milton, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center, one of the corporate sponsors of the event and herself a past “Plunger” said, “The event a great fund raiser for a great cause and is a lot of fun, not only for the ‘Plungers,’ but for those who come out to watch and support them.” She notes that there will be food and concession sales featuring food and warm “Plunge” clothing. One of the highlights will be the opportunity to see the costumes worn by some of the competing “Plungers” as groups and individuals compete for the coveted “Golden Plunger Award.”

Milton encourages everyone to come out and support the event and to donate what they can to support the “Special Olympics of Missouri” and its athletes. For further information on the Branson Polar Plunge or other Branson shows, and events please call Branson Tourism Center at 1-800-785-1550 or visit their web site wwwBransonTourismCenter.com.

Branson Up Close and Personal with Christina Lingo Tabuchi

 

Christina Lingo Tabuchi right after our interview.

BRANSON, Mo. One of Branson’s most popular shows is the Shoji Tabuchi Show which has been entertaining audiences in Branson, in its own theatre, for going on 23 years. Starting out as an eight year old performer, Shoji’s daughter, Christina Lingo Tabuchi, has been singing and dancing with her dad for just about everyone of those years and has developed into an extraordinary singer and dancer who is the shows Vocal Director and Co-Captain of the Dancers. In addition to performing with the Shoji Tabuchi show this very personable young lady is also in the process of developing a solo career.

BTC was fortunate to catch up with her before she left Branson for Nashville, where she resides when not performing or working in Branson. In the “off season” Christina will not only be working on projects for her solo career, but will also be involved with the production, auditioning and costume designing for the show and the buying of merchandise for the theatres gift shop. The Shoji Tabuchi Show will open its 2012 season on April 13th.

“Branson – Up Close and Personal,” is a service of the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, and is intended to provide readers with an up close and personal look at a Branson star or personality. The interview with Christina Lingo Tabuchi (CT) uses a “Question and Answer” format with the interviewing being done for the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) by Gary J. Groman, a 26 year resident of the Branson area, local columnist and free lance writer.

BTC: At what age did you first start singing and dancing?
CT: I started singing and dancing when I was three and started performing for audiences when I was five. My first non-school performances were on the stage of “Country Music World” when Bill and Janet Daily would let me perform.

BTC: When did you first start performing in the Shoji Tabuchi Show?
CT: In 1989 when we started our own show in the old “auto show” building. [It is the theatre currently located behind the Olive Garden Restaurant.]

BTC: Do you remember the first number you performed?
CT: Oh absolutely. The first song I ever sang on stage in front of people was Loretta Lynn’s “You Ain’t Woman Enough to Take My Man.” For the Shoji Tabuchi Show I believe that the very first song I sang was “Swinging on a Star.”

Christina performing the Carpenter's hit "Merry Christmas Darling."

BTC: What part of this year’s Shoji Tabuchi Show did you personally enjoy performing the most and why?
CT: That’s really hard, but I really had a fun time doing “Undo It” by Carrie Underwood with two of the dancers Cory Hansen and Brandt Brinkley in the regular show. Although I know that anybody who knows me and is going read this will laugh, one of my favorite parts in the Christmas Show was dancing and doing the polka to “Deck the Halls” and “Jingle Bells.”

BTC: What is your first memory of Branson?
CT: It’s funny because when you say that, instantaneously, I think of Shepherd of the Hills [Expressway] being a dirt road and the charcoal plant.

BTC: What do you like to do most in Branson when you are not performing?
CT: I’m kind of a homebody. I just enjoy resting and relaxing with family and friends

BTC: What do you like best about performing in Branson?
CT: My family’s here. It can’t get any better than that. I’ve always loved hanging out with my parents so it’s just been a dream for me. Another thing I love is the great family atmosphere of Branson. It is a great place to visit and a great place to live.

BTC: If you could perform or meet with any one entertainer/person (living or deceased) who would it be and why?
CT: I don’t know. How I am supposed to pick between George Jones and Dolly Parton.

BTC: Let’s take them both.
CT: George Jones was a favorite of my “Nanny,” my mom’s mom. That’s who she listened to and pretty much what I was raised on. I just think he’s amazing. And Dolly Parton is just amazing. She’s an entertainer, entrepreneur, writes her own music, plays guitar, has a great sense of humor, acts and is involved with the whole range of entertainment. I just respect her a lot.

BTC: In your career, of all the performances you have been in, no matter how big or small, which one personally meant the most to you and why?

CT: You know, it kind of makes me a little teary, but it was when me, mom and dad were all three doing the show together. Take any one of those.

BTC:  Do you have a favorite hobby or activity and what is it?
CT: I seriously love just hanging around with my family, friends and dogs.

BTC: What kind of dogs?
CT: Rescued mutts. I have a little wired hair terrier, his name is “Gus” and little poodle, schnauzer terrier mix and her name is “Petunia.”

BTC: Do you have a “little known” fact about yourself that you think our readers would enjoy?
CT: I am obsessed with cup cakes.

BTC: What is the funniest thing that has happened to you in front of an audience?
CT: Oh, good grief. One that sticks out was during our first year of shows when I was about eight years old. While dad was playing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” I came out from behind a little “Candy Land” house that was wheeled out and sang with him. This one day, I got the hiccups and had them all during the song. The audience was laughing during the whole song. I remember thinking, “Oh, they’re laughing at me” and they said, “No they’re laughing because it’s cute and you have the hiccups and can’t get rid of them.”

BTC: What is your favorite genre of music?
CT: I can’t pick just one. I love all types of music.

BTC: In addition to being a performer in the Shoji Tabuchi Show, what other duties do you perform in connection with the show?
CT: I am the Vocal Director for the theatre, the Co Captain of the Dancers and am involved with some of the costume designing, back stage management and the buying of merchandise for the gift shop. In addition, I hold the auditions for singers and dancers for the show.

BTC: Are there any special projects you have on tap for next year that you would like to share with our readers?
CT: I have a new album that will be released next year and will be available when we start our 2012 season on April 13th. I am also working on two other albums, a duet album with friends and a Christmas album.

BTC: Are you on Facebook andhttp://ww Twitter?
CT: I sure am. www.facebook.com/pages/Christina-Lingo/75740939185 and www.twitter.com/ChristinaLingo

BTC: Anything else you want our readers to know?
CT: Plan to come and see our show next year, you’ll have a great time and there’s something for everybody.

BTC: Can you give us a hint of what will be in the show next year?
CT: We haven’t had our production meetings for next year yet, but I guarantee that it will be a great show!

 

Why come to Branson during the “off season?”

Tthe Hollywood Wax Museum is just one of the many year round attractions in Branson.

BRANSON, Mo. The question is often asked, “Why should I come to Branson during the off season?” Having lived in the Branson area for the major part of 25 years this writer feels safe in answering that question by saying, “For the same reason you’d come during the season, to have fun and enjoy a great Branson experience.”

The experience one will enjoy during the off season will be different from a couple of perspectives. First, the vast majority of Branson’s live shows will be closed during January and most of February, but great shows such as the Grand Jubilee, Hughes Brothers, and others will be available with more gradually opening in February and subsequent months.

In terms of attractions, although Branson’s biggest and most popular attraction the 1880’s theme park Silver Dollar City will be not open until March 15, the vast majority of Branson’s attractions are not weather dependent and will be open. These include attractions such as Ripley’s Believe It or Not, Hollywood Wax Museum, the Castle of Chaos, the Titanic Museum Attraction and many others. Regardless of the weather there will be an exciting fun filled activity for your family to share together that is only minutes away from wherever you are staying in Branson.

It is going to be a very special year at the Titanic Museum Attraction as they remember the 100th anniversary of the great ships sinking with many special events. In addition, they will host the 2012 National Ice Carving Association’s U.S. Nationals on February 4-5 with the carvers competing for an opportunity “to end up in the city of Sochi, Russia, the host city for the XXII Olympic Winter Games, in 2014.

From an outdoor perspective there is everything from trout fishing on Lake Taneycomo, bass fishing on Table Rock Lake, to walking, hiking, biking, seeing the eagles or experiencing the National Tiger Sanctuary. Have young children and want a great photo opportunity with them having a blast, then take them down to “Branson’s Unofficial Duck Feeding Area” at Scotty’s Dock and let them feed the ducks and geese that congregate there. Just a leisurely walk along the Branson Landing’s Boardwalk is a unique and wonderful experience to share together.

Speaking of Branson Landing brings to mind Branson’s fabulous shopping which is always in season. From Branson’s major Malls such as Tanger Outlets and Branson Landing to its specialty shops and shopping attractions such as “Dick’s 5 & 10,” Branson provides a shopping experience that is as unique as it is unparalleled and is never “out of season.” While avoiding the in season crowds you just might get some of the best values of the year.

Branson’s is noted for the variety, quality and value of its lodging. From lakeside condos and cabins to quaint B&Bs, resorts with inside water parks and many others, there is a lodging choice for every budget and need with many offering complimentary breakfast.

In Branson, fun, excitement, value and family are always in season. Branson’s off season offers an opportunity to enjoy these things without the pressures of crowds and traffic that are common during the season. “In season” or “out of season” Branson offers a unique unparalleled experience and great value and the opportunity to create memories that could last a life time.

Branson’s shows and value make it the “real deal” all the time

One of the colorful and exciting production numbers from the Andy Williams Christmas Show.

“It’s exciting because that’s the way a lot of people feel about Branson after they have visited it for the first time,” said Stephanie Milton, Director of Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. Milton was referring to an article written by Patti Nickell, Contributing Travel Writer for the Lexington, Herald Leader entitled Branson, Mo.: a great trip for the holidays or any other time appearing on line at Kentucky.Com on December 4.

The article started off with a confession that many people who have never been to Branson might be able to relate to. While acknowledging that Branson has eight million visitors, a year the writer said, “I had never particularly wanted to go to Branson, Mo. It always seemed like a veritable kitsch soup whose ingredients were tour buses, tacky attractions and souvenirs and pseudo-folksiness.”

After her “inaugural” four day visit to Branson in mid-November, during Ozark Mountain Christmas however, the writer wrote, “I have another confession: I was wrong. This small community in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, just north of the Arkansas state line, is the real deal.”

During her visit she experienced the Branson first hand, going to eight shows and An Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City. She saw a wide variety of Branson’s shows and described them as “being nothing short of spectacular.”

The breadth of the shows she experienced covered the gamut of “A Dickens Christmas Carol” at Silver Dollar City’s “An Ole Time Christmas,” which she stated couldn’t “have been better staged in London or New York” to “The Twelve Irish Tenors” described as her favorite because of their mesmerizing talent and “rendition of the aria ‘Nessun dorma’ from Puccini’s opera ‘Turandot,'” which “alone was worth the price of admission.” The article described other Branson shows she saw during her trip including, the “Andy Williams Christmas Show,” “The Legend of Kung Fu,” “The Brett Family” and “Oh What A Night! A Musical Tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.”

The article emphasizes the value of Branson’s show pricing pointing out that Branson’s prices are about a third of what shows in Las Vegas and New York would cost. It said they “are, in fact, a major reason to come to Branson.”

Milton said that the experience described in the article, from the quality and value of Branson’s shows to the way people feel about Branson after they have visited for the first time is what has made Branson such an exciting and successful travel destination. “In terms of family entertainment, value and excitement, Branson Missouri is the ‘real deal,'” she continued.

 

“Miracle of Christmas” – a special gift of the true meaning of Christmas

The spectacle and wonder of the Sight and Sound's "Miracle of Christmas."

“During Ozark Mountain Christmas, there is no better destination city in America to experience the traditional American Christmas spirit than in Branson, Missouri. That thought was reinforced in a spectacular, entertaining and inspirational way when this writer saw the “Miracle of Christmas,” at the Sight and Sound theatre. With spectacular sets, music, dance and drama, it tells the inspirational story of the greatest miracle of all, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”

The show tells the biblical account of the birth of Jesus and the events leading up to it, adding drama and characters to the for enhanced entertainment value and explore the human side of the birth of Jesus. It is a wonderfully told and presented fictional account of the factual events reported in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke conveying the true” reason for the season.”

It’s really neat to see this entertainment spectacular, about God’s promise to send a Savior, develop. It shows how He fulfilled that promise through Mary and Joseph and shares the human aspect of His plan as He uses the faithfulness of a simple couple from Nazareth to bring His Son into the world.

It doesn’t take too long to see the spectacle, color and production involved with this show as, from its very beginning, the audience is swept into a betrothal ceremony displaying the first of the shows spectacular sets, a large two story edifice surrounding a court yard in the center of Nazareth. It takes up the entire center of the 20,000 square foot 300 foot long wrap around stage. The talent of the cast is immediately apparent as Mary and Joseph sing of their love for each other and the cast joins together in a beautiful and lively celebratory dance.

The Miracle of Christmas ends “with flying angels and magnificent music, camels and wise men and shepherds at the manger honoring the Son of God after his birth. It is one of the most spectacular things most people will ever experience on a stage in terms of production, grandeur, entertainment, and sensory appeal. It is truly an amazing ending for a wonderful experience about what the celebration of Christmas really is all about.

“In between, there is a musical drama about the times, what type of Savior some were expecting, the oppression of not only Roman rule, but King Herod, and the strictness of Jewish law and custom. However, it is the personal glimpse into the lives and relationships of the biblical characters associated with the birth of Jesus such as Simeon, Zacharias, Elizabeth, Mary and Joseph which creates the drama and, even within the context of a story that everyone knows the outcome, suspense. The personal turmoil that Mary and Joseph, their families, and community had to work through because of the miraculous pregnancy of Mary and the faith and perseverance that it took to get from the betrothal ceremony in Nazareth to the birth of Jesus in a manager in Bethlehem is in itself a miracle.

“It is a modern production miracle that the cast members; animals, from camels to horses, riders and more; flying angels coming down from on high and the effort necessary to change the spectacular sets used, come together in a production that flows as smoothly and enjoyably as this show. Combine that, with the talent of the cast, both dramatically and musically, lavish costuming and the story of the greatest gift this world has ever received and the “Miracle of Christmas” is not only an exciting entertainment spectacle, but a Christmas blessing for those who know Jesus as their Lord and Savior as well as those who do not.”

For additional information on the “Miracle of Christmas” please call the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services and sellers of Branson show and attraction tickets and lodging. BTC can be reached by calling 800-785-1550 or through its website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

The Andy Williams Christmas Show is the “Most Wonderful Time of the Year”

The fabulous Lennon Sisters performing their beautiful rendition of "The Star Carol."

To many people Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas in Branson without the “Andy Williams Christmas Show” and there was some concern that there would be no show because of Andy’s illness. Be concerned no longer. I saw the Andy Williams Christmas Show on its opening night and, even though Andy is not performing as a regular part of the show, his influence on everything involved with the show from the costuming, sets, music, talent, choreography and spirit is obvious and for good reason; he conceived and produced the show.

From the bands opening number to the shows last number, “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” this show is an exciting and beautiful testimony as to why that it so. Here it is, the day after Halloween and I am attending the Andy Williams Christmas Show wondering how to make the transition into feeling the Christmas spirit.

It was a gradual thing, starting with the sound of Andy singing Christmas carols as I walked up to the theatre entrance. It really kicked up a few notches when I stepped into the lobby and was transported into the “Christmas Winter Wonderland” created by Andy and his team. They really did a terrific job! If you would like to see a Face Book Album with pictures of this “Christmas Winter Wonderland” please click here.

One of the shows colorful and exciting production numbers featuring who else, but Santa Claus.

At this point, I’m starting to feel that Christmas Spirit and then it happened; the curtain went up and the show’s band filled the theatre with the glorious sound of Christmas surrounded by the beautifully decorated Christmas set. That was followed by a wonderful production number, amid a winter wonderland, as the shows singers and dancers brought the scene to life with their costuming, dancing and singing including, who else, but Santa Claus. From then on, at least for me, it was impossible not to feel the Christmas spirit.

The show is a virtual Christmas Tree decorated with a variety of stars and an extremely talented cast of musicians, dancers and singers. Bob Anderson, does a masterful job as “Master of Ceremonies,” as well as providing a “lite” touch of humor, without changing the spirit or flow of the show; singing and impressions. This is one talented entertainer. When you see and hear him impersonate Dean Martin, Sammie Davis Jr., Tony Bennett, Johnny Mathis and even Andy Williams, while performing “Winter Wonderland,” you will appreciate why he has been called, “The best singing impressionist in America.”

Another of the shows stars are “Lennon Sisters”, celebrating their 55th year in show business with one of their busiest years yet. Not only are they performing their own Christmas show, Christmas with the Lennon Sisters at 2 p.m. each day at the theatre, but they are also performing in the Andy Williams Christmas Show in the evening. Kathy, Janet and Mimi sing a variety of numbers, Christmas and otherwise, with that beautiful natural familial harmony that has made The Lennon Sister so special to so many for so long. Their rendition of “The Star Carol,” is a special Christmas blessing sung as only they can sing it.

The Christmas Tree that is the Andy Williams Christmas Show also sparkles with stars such as the “Lennon Brothers and Gail,” who added their big band swing style to a number of Christmas songs. Their rendition, and the message of, “May Every Day Be Christmas” particularly resonated with this writer. When talking about the shows quick change artists and Adagio Dance Team, “Pasha & Aliona ,” Andy Williams said, ““Pasha and Aliona are just great, and people go NUTS over their dancing and quick changes! I can’t figure out how they do it!” Even as I sat  there watching their quick changes seamlessly interwoven into the grace and beauty of their performance this writer would second Andy’s statement by saying, “I saw it, was amazed by it, but I don’t know how they do it either.”

The "Cookie Bear" dancing in a colorful scene with the "cookies."

Other stars on the shows Christmas Tree include the beautiful harmonies of the “Warnocks,” in numbers such as “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” and Dean Church playing the fiddle. His rendition of “What Child Is This” was a delightful introduction to his performance. The cast of Oh What A Night, A Musical Tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons which performs a morning show at the theatre, did a wonderful job with this writers favorites being “The Christmas Song” and their rousing performance of “Jingle Bells” complete with dancing reindeer. Oh and did I mention, that there is a special appearance by the “Cookie Bear” who actually dances with the “cookies” which it so eagerly seeks.

There are two moments however, had a special impact on this writer’s heart. The first was the video of a younger Andy Williams singing “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” as he shares himself and his family with us at Christmas. The second was the sound of Mr. Williams voice reading the words of “One Solitary Life” in combination with Mike Cathcart’s spectacular, mesmerizing and poignant rendition of “Silent Night.” As his singing touches your heart, it is easy to understand why Andy said, “Mike Cathcart is the best singer I know!”

As is the case with decorations on any Christmas Tree, it is the totality of all the decorations that make it what it is. That is the case with the Andy Williams Christmas Show. It is the combination of the spectacular orchestra; energetic and talented singers and dancers; beautiful sets and costuming all choreographed together, not only to interact with each other, but the talents of the guest stars appearing with them, that results in a one of kind Christmas show that should not be missed.

For additional information or tickets for the Andy Williams Christmas Show or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), 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.

Fall foliage is one of the best shows in Branson

A shot of beautiful color as a tree begins to turn. It was taken from the balcony of our condo today in the rain.

BRANSON, Mo. It’s a beautiful thing to see as the first blush of color starts to paint the foliage covering the beautiful Ozarks. That first blush gradually paints the entire Ozarks with the colors of fall, one leaf at a time. Although this year’s color might not be as spectacular as some in the past, on any year it is a beautiful sight to see and experience providing one of the best shows in Branson.

One of the questions that is often asked is “What’s the best way to see the foliage?” The general answer would be, “Just keep your eyes open as you experience Branson.” It might be just a couple of trees with vivid color as you drive down the road, a panoramic vista filled with color as you gaze out from one of the area’s overlooks or, as is the case illustrated in the photo taken from the deck of my condo as I was writing this piece this morning, simply noticing the beautiful foliage that can be seen at just about every turn in Branson.

The fall foliage is an inherent part of many of Branson’s outdoor activities and attractions. It would be hard to get better a panoramic view of the Ozark’s foliage than from a cruise on Lake Taneycomo, aboard either the Branson Landing Cruises’ Lake Queen or Lake Princess or on Table Rock Lake aboard the Showboat Branson Belle. Experiencing the fall foliage is an added benefit of golfing on one of the many Branson golf courses or visiting Branson attractions such as Silver Dollar City, zip lines such as the Vigilante, Inspiration Tower, Branson Scenic Railway and others.

Another great way to see magnificent panoramic vistas is from some of the area’s “overlooks. The Overlook on State Route 165, about a mile south of its intersection with State Route 265, and the Table Rock Dam Overlook, located on the south end of Table Rock Dam across the road from the Visitors Center, both provide unique views not only of the foliage, especially if you look downstream from either of these points, but of the general area. In addition, the Table Rock Dam overlook also provides closeup view of the Dam and the Shepherd of the Hills Trout Hatchery.

A third overlook is provided at the Henning Conservation Area located about a mile west of the junction of State Route 76 and State Route 376 on the north side of the road. Its view to the north from the parking area is just breathtaking anytime and made even more so when one factors in the fall foliage. As you drive to and from Henning, the view off the south side of Route 76 is also spectacular.

There are many ways to experience to fall foliage “up close and personal.” One is by walking some of the many trails that are available. These include the trails at the Henning Conservation Area, the Shepherd of the Hills Visitor’s Center at the foot of Table Rock Dam, the White River Valley Trail System, the city of Branson’s Lake Side Wilderness Trailand others.

The views available looking along the bluffs across from Branson Landing are another way to get a panoramic view of the fall foliage as it changes. The paved Branson Landing Boardwalk, accessible from either the Belk or Bass Pro Shops parking lots, runs the length of Branson Landing along the Lake Taneycomo shoreline providing convenient level access for everyone to see not only the foliage, but the boats, birds and other activities taking place on the lake.

The foliage and the natural beauty of an Ozark’s Fall becomes an even better experience with its almost seamless integration into the other things that Branson offers live shows, attractions, shopping and dozens of other activities. It is that unique combination of natural beauty, entertainment and fun, combined with its spirit, that makes Branson, Missouri the special unique place that it is to visit and to live.

It’s no duck waddle as Titanic’s Molly and Carter promenade daily at Noon sharp

Carter and Molly with First Class Maid Jaynee and Handler Kim Breit after greeting the ships guests.

A well known national hotel has a daily “duck march” at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. every day, with five ducks waddling along a red carpet to and from its lobby fountain. Well, in Branson, Missouri, when the whistle of the Titanic Museum Attraction blows at Noon each day, “Molly” and “Carter, two adorable and cuddly King Charles Spaniels, come around the bow of the great ship with their handler and one of the Titanic’s crew as they promenade down the winding walkway and past the waterfall to the iceberg by the attractions entrance where they “greet” the ships guests and pose for pictures.

When the Titanic’s First Class Maid, Jaynee said, “I love and adore Molly and Carter,” she was probably expressing the way a lot of the Titanic’s passengers feel about the two loveable “Titanic Mascots.” Kim Breit, one of their handlers who has been working with “the girls,” as she calls them, since their arrival at the ship in March of 2010 said that they “just love being around people and getting attention.”

Nowhere is that more evident than when they are in their carriage by the iceberg after the walk posing for pictures and interacting with the ships guests as they pet them. In one case, no pictures because of privacy reasons, a man in a wheel chair could not get close enough to pet the dogs. It was touching to observe the efforts that both Jaynee and Kim went through to bring Molly and Carter to him for pictures with his family and so he could pet them.

The look on his face as he petted them was priceless. To this writer, it illustrated the personality, heart and training of the Titanic’s crew toward ensuring that every guest has a great experience and the essence of what differentiates Branson from every other major tourist attraction in the world; the way we care about and for our guests.

Breit continued saying that Molly and Carter are sisters and will be three years old in November of this year. She points out that although they are sisters and both love attention and being around people that they have two distinct personalities. Carter is a big “snuggler” and likes to be held while Molly “is very independent.” Although “Carter” is a male name, she got her name from the “Carter” family who was traveling aboard the Titanic with a King Charles Spaniel at the time of its sinking. The Carters survived the tragic event, but sadly their King Charles Spaniel did not.

The life that Molly and Carter lead adds new meaning to “Being treated like a dog.” There are three handlers that rotate taking care of their every need during their working day as well as taking them home with them at night. When they are not greeting or interacting with guests while at the ship, daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., they spend time relaxing in their “lavish” climate controlled “kennel” aboard the ship

For additional information or tickets for the Branson Titanic Museum Attraction or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), 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.

October provides Branson visitors with unique entertaining opportunities

One of many demonstrating craftsmen at Silver Dollar City's "National Harvest Festival.

BRANSON, Mo.  One thing is evident in Branson, there is always something fun and exciting to do, but the month of October provides visitors with a unique opportunity for some special experiences. The first relates to the beauty of the Ozarks and the opportunity to see the Fall foliage and experience the natural wonder of the Ozarks. Although, because of hot dry weather, the foliage might not be as colorful as some years in the past, when coupled with Table Rock Lake and beautiful rolling Ozark vistas the Fall scenery in the Branson area is simply a unique spectacular experience.

Silver Dollar City, Branson’s most popular and oldest attraction, is a continuation of  that natural beauty. The 1880′s international award winning theme park, featuring 30 rides, shows, demonstrating craftsmen and much more has been integrated almost seamlessly into the beautiful Ozark hills of which is it a part.

In addition to all it offers on a daily basis, Silver Dollar City holds six world class festivals every year. The month of October presents the last opportunity to attend its “National Harvest Festival” with over 125 demonstrating craftsmen and artisans from all over the country; special shows such as the original award winning musical production of “Headin’ West,” the popular “Birds of Prey” and, new this year, the “Timberworks Lumberjack Show featuring “speed racing up 40 foot poles, cross-cut-sawing, ax throwing,” and much more.

One of Branson's hottest shows, the vocal band SIX, left to right, Lynn, Kevin, Curtis, Barry, Owen and Jak.

October is also a special month for Branson’s live shows because it is the last time for Branson visitors to see the 2011 regular season version of many Branson shows. Starting during the first week of November, with the start of Ozark Mountain Christmas, the vast majority of Branson Shows will transition over to their Christmas Shows making the month of October the last month to see the 2011 regular season version of their shows. This includes some of Branson’s most popular shows such as Presley’s Country Jubilee, SIX, Yakov Smirnoff, Hamner and Barber Variety, Shoji Tabuchi, and Pierce Arrow.

For still other regular season Branson shows, the month of October is the last chance to see them at all during the 2011 season because their seasons will end during the month of October. These include, but are not limited to, shows such as the Liverpool Legends, Smoke on the Mountain, Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Play, Hooray for Hollywood, Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley, Sons of the Pioneers, and the  Circle B Supper Show. October will be the last month for Branson Visitors to see the spectacular production of “NOAH, the Musical” at the Sight and Sound Theatre not only for 2011, but for at least a few years to come. It will be replaced by the equally spectacular “Joseph” starting in the 2012 season.

The Official Branson.Com Show Schedule indicates that October will also be an excellent month to see some great limited engagement performances. This includes Michael Bolton; Vicki Lawrence; Tim Conway with Friends; Don Williams with guest Little Jimmy Dickens; Aaron Tippin, Sammy Kershaw and Joe Diffie; Gatlin Brothers; Oak Ridge Boys and Marty Stuart. The end of October will also be the last chance to see some of Branson’s more extended limited engagement shows such as Andy William and Ann-Margret; Lee Greenwood and Louise Mandrell and Oh What A Night! A Musical Tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.

For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City, any of the shows mentioned in this article or other Branson shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), 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.

New one of a kind exhibit added to Branson Titanic Museum Attraction

Titanic's "Survivors' Wall of Stories," tells "The Rest of the Story."*

BRANSON, Mo. As we approach the 100th Anniversary of the tragic sinking of the RMS Titanic in the early morning hours of April 15, 1912 the horrific loss of life and the ship that was touted as being virtually unsinkable are forever etched on the pages of history. Too, those pages testify as to the obvious fate of the over 1,500 passengers and crew who went to the bottom of the North Atlantic with her.

What has not been as obvious is what happened to the 712 passengers and crew members who survived that fateful voyage. Not anymore! The “New exclusive ‘Survivors’ Wall of Stories,’ at the Titanic Museum Attraction in Branson” presents, all in one place, information about the “the individual journeys of each of the survivors” after that fateful night.

On a daily basis, the Branson Titanic Museum Attraction, provides its “passengers” with an exciting opportunity to experience what it was like aboard the Titanic on its ill-fated maiden voyage. Among the many things woven into the exciting and educational experience are “400 artifacts directly from the ship,” a chance to walk up an exact full size reproduction of the ships Grand Staircase, feel first-hand what 28 degree water feels like, experience what the passengers and crew experienced as they tried to stand on the sloping decks of the ship as she sank and so much more.

A standard part of the Branson Titanic experience, ever since it first opened, is to give each passenger a Boarding Pass, with the name and information about one of the passengers or crew members who were on board the Titanic when she sank. This personalizes the experience for the “passenger” as they go through the museum as well as giving them an opportunity to see whether or not “they” survived by checking their name in the “Memorial Gallery,” which lists all passengers and crew members and whether or not they survived.

Mary Kellogg-Joslyn, the co-owner of the Titanic Museum Attraction with her husband John, said “So many guests ask us, ‘What happened to our passenger that survived on our boarding pass?’” She explained that until now there was no exhibit answering that question and they were answered by the crew members and staff of the Titanic on an individual basis based on available information. “Now, for the first time in the world, after two years of research, we have been able to put their lives together after they reached New York City almost 100 years ago,” she continued.

The research included contacting “Titanic Historical Societies around the world,” to get the information and documentation to tell the survivors stories. The result is an exclusive new exhibit for the Branson Titanic Museum Attraction that is the most complete public exhibit of information in the world telling what happened to the Titanic Survivors after they arrived in New York after being rescued.

The unique “Survivors’ Wall of Stories,” presents a picture, where available, and the stories of the vast majority of the 712 survivors, divided just as they were aboard the Titanic on their voyage, 201 from First Class, 118 from Second Class, 181 from Third Class and 212 Crew Members. Within each of those categories, the information is presented and sorted alphabetically. As of this date, out of the 712 survivors, the “Survivors’ Wall of Stories,” has information on all except for except for about 30.

Joslyn points out that the research is ongoing and that the exhibit will be updated with new information as it becomes available. As an example, she explains that six of the survivors were Chinese men and there is no record of what happened after they returned to their country. After visiting the museum, the Chinese government is now going to take part in helping to find out what happened to the Chinese survivors.

She said that the “Survivors’ Wall of Stories,” is just one example of how things are constantly changing at the museum to keep it fresh and exciting so that its guests always have a fresh new experience every time they visit. For additional information on the Titanic Museum Attraction or tickets for any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), 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.

*Picture courtesy of Branson Titanic Museum Atraction