Author Archives: Gary Groman

Craft festivals, grape stomp, faeries, wood carving and chili cook-off “Fall” in Branson

One of the many crafts that will be demonstrated at the National Harvest Festival.

Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival is not only one of the largest craft festivals in the nation it is the precursor of many Fall festivals and events in the Branson area that run during the same time period. The National Harvest Festival has been formally recognized by the U.S. Congress, features over 100 demonstrating craftsmen and artisans from all over the country, runs until October 29 and like all of the six world class festivals that Silver Dollar City offers its guests each year is in addition to all the fun, rides and excitement available at the international award winning 1880s theme park on a daily basis.

The merchants and businesses of historic downtown Branson will hold their 38th Annual Autumn Daze Arts and Crafts Festival in Branson’s historic district on Friday and Saturday, September 16 and 17 from 9 AM to 6 PM. Over 150 crafters from all over the country will display, their work in this “juried craft show” which is free to the public and, when combined with the unqiue specialty and art shops in downtown Branson, provides one of the most unique shopping opportunities available anywhere. In addition the festival includes demonstrations from many of the visiting craftsmen, food vendors, a children’s area, free live music from Branson entertainers throughout the day and a street dance in historic down town Branson on Saturday, September 17 at 6:30 PM with the music provided by “Tony Turner and the All Stars.”

On Saturday, September 24, the city of Hollister will hold its 13th annual “Grape & Fall Festival” on “Downing Street”  in historic downtown Hollister. This one day celebration is “simply old fashioned family fun” for the whole family and will feature displays and products by local artists and vendors, live music and entertainment by Branson entertainers, kids activities, “carnival food like funnel cakes and turkey legs” and much more. One of the major highlights of the festival is the “Grape Stomp” competition at 2 PM where local dignitaries and personalities “get up to their knees in grapes” and compete for the coveted “Ugly Monkey Trophy.” It’s a unique day of great fun.

The 2nd Annual “Rose O’Neill’s Faerie Gathering” will take place on September 24 and 25 at “Bonniebrook,” the “favorite place” of Rose O’Neill, the inventor of the “Kewpie Doll” and “Kewpies.” In addition to the museum, containing one of the most complete collections of O’Neil’s “Kewpies” and other works available anywhere, the festival will celebrate her belief in “Faeries” with crafts, a fairy house building competition, seminars and other activities including “The Sweet Monsters Ball and Masquerade” starting at 6 PM on Saturday, September 24.

From Friday, October 7 through the Sunday, October 9, in conjunction with “LogHoggers,” the Branson Titanic Museum Attraction will hold its 4th Annual Chainsaw Sculpting Event to honor Titanic’s German passengers and crew. The three day competition will take place from 9 AM to 5 PM on Friday and Saturday and from 9 AM to 3 PM on Sunday. It also includes an auction where the carvings will be auctioned off to the highest bidder.

The Titanic will also hold its 2nd Annual “red-hot Titanic Firehouse & Charity Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, October 15, from 10 AM. to 4 PM in the same parking area. The first year of the event proved to be one of “the most highly attended family events in Titanic’s five-year history.” Come early, watch them prep, meet local firefighters, personnel from various charities, sample their delicious chili and then stick around to see if your favorite wins the competition.

https://www.bransontourismcenter.com/events/detail.php?id=952

For additional information on any of these events or any of Branson’s 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.

Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival is a celebration of American craftsmanship

Chalk Street Art is just one of the amazing crafts and arts featured at the Festival.

“Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest Festival is a prime example of why the U.S. Congress proclaimed Silver Dollar City as “The Home of American Craftsmanship,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Continuing a long tradition of being one of America’s ‘most recognized craft festivals,’ over 125 demonstrating craftsmen and artisans from all over the country will gather at Silver Dollar City for the National Harvest Festival being held from September 10 through October 29,” she continued.

Johnson points out that the Festival is an inherent part of the experience that Silver Dollar City has provided its visitors since its early days “when its founding family wanted to share the ways of the Ozarks with visitors to the Ozark Mountains.” It is all about “American crafts and demonstrating craftsmanship – celebrating the handwork, the foods, the music and the long-established camaraderie of the harvest.”

The National Harvest Festival is one of the largest gatherings of demonstrating artists and craftsmen anywhere in America and provides Silver Dollar City guests with a unique opportunity to view a variety of some of the finest craftsmen and artisans in America. From street chalk artistry, painting, and glass blowing to basket weaving, Native American flutes, knife making, basket weaving and dozens more, the over 125 visiting craftsmen from all over the country will provide an unparalleled opportunity for the parks guests to see demonstrations of American craftsmanship at their very best.

The “Best of Missouri Hands – Made in Missouri Juried Art Faire and Competition” will feature some of the best of Missouri’s craftsmen and artists who are all recognized masters in their respective “medium.” Park guests will be able to vote for their favorite pieces. A new feature this year will be the “‘Turning Wood Into Art Showcase’ featuring demonstrating craftsmen with specialties such as life-sized hedge wood horses, instruments and hand carved furniture.”

Just one of the exciting things featured in the "Timber Works Lumberjack Show."

The original award winning musical production of “Headin’ West” which shares the harrowing adventures and colorful characters of America’s westward expansion during the 1870s will also be returning. It has won the “Big-E” award for “Best Overall Production” presented by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, has “surprising special effects, vivid scenery and talented performers and is Silver Dollar City’s biggest production show ever!” Also returning will be chain saw wood carving and the popular “Birds of Prey.” New this year will be the “Timberworks Lumberjack Show. This exciting outdoor show features “speed racing up 40 foot poles, cross-cut-sawing, ax throwing,” and much more.

“Missouri’s Largest Barn Dance” is returning by popular demand. This fun filled activity features live bands such as “Texas in the Swing” “Missouri Travelers,” Silver Dollar City’s own “Horsecreek” and Les Gilliam & His Silver Lake Band. If the past is any indication, “seasoned dancers will be on hand to give tips and instruction to beginners.”

In addition to the excellent food service that is normally available throughout the park, the Harvest Festival will be replete with the tastes of Fall. Among other mouth watering choices will be “Indian Tacos,” “Wrangler’s Buffalo Chili,” and a choice of specialty desserts including pies, cobblers and more.

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson says that all of the activities involved with the Festival are in addition to everything else Silver Dollar City offers on a daily basis. The 1880’s international award winning theme park features 30 rides and attractions encompassing everything from “Wildfire,” a world class multi-looping roller coaster that reaches speeds up to 66 miles per hour to their new $1 million “Half Dollar Holler” designed for kids through age 7 and so much more.

She also points out that the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) has two day Silver Dollar City tickets for the price of a one day ticket. For additional information or tickets for Silver Dollar City, the National Harvest Festival or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact BTC by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Branson’s heart provides seniors with the trip they thought was lost

BRANSON, Mo. It was a newspaper article about the victimization of some senior citizens that happened in 2008, hundreds of miles away from Branson and that most in Branson, not only had nothing to do with, but had no idea it had even happened. However, as is the case with many of life’s good works, it touched the hearts of people who cared and, as a result, a group of senior citizens, called the “Funseekers,” will travel those hundreds of miles to Branson and enjoy three days of fun they thought had been stolen from them forever.

At first blush, there’s nothing in the February 23, 2011 Connecticut Post article, entitled, “Travel agent headed to jail for defrauding seniors” for anyone in Branson to be concerned about, but as Larry Milton, co-owner of the Branson Tourism Center with his wife Lianne, read the article about this specific group, his heart was touched. He discovered that the seniors who had been victimized had paid over $40,000 to a man for a three night trip to Branson that they never got to take because he took their money but never fulfilled the trip. Although the thief was convicted and is awaiting sentencing, Milton just didn’t think it was right that the Funseekers never got the Branson trip for which they had paid.

On February 24, not a day after becoming aware of the situation, the Milton’s contacted the reporter to get more information on the group and began working with others in the Branson community to help put together the same itinerary that had originally been sold to the Funseekers group back in 2008.  Milton said that he and others in the community wanted “the Funseekers to see firsthand in this day and age that Branson is different for all the right reasons.”

He continued by pointing out that it would also be an opportunity “to emphasize to other groups the importance of trusting an established tour provider.” He explained that whether it is someone who is a member of ABA, NTA, OMCA, BARA, or ASTA there are reputable companies that Branson’s future customers should be encouraged to “use to protect themselves and ultimately our community.”

With that simple start, and thanks to the hearts of many within the Branson tourism community, about 54 members of the “Funseekers,” will fly into St. Louis on September 12 to enjoy the same basic three day Branson itinerary they paid for in 2008 and thought they had lost. The response of those offering to help from within the Branson tourism community was overwhelming. As far as practicable, everything on their original itinerary, from airfare, to bus service, lodging, shows and most meals is being provided courtesy of the following which are listed in alphabetical order Andy Williams Moon River Grill, Branson Coach, Branson Tourism Center, the Brett Family Show, Jim Stafford Show, McFarlain’s Restaurant, Shoji Tabuchi Show, the Showboat Branson Belle Dinner Show, the Stone Castle Hotel, the Twelve Irish Tenors and the Yakov Smirnoff Show.

In explaining one of the major things that makes Branson the special place it is, Milton said, “It is and will forever be different because of the hearts of its people.” It is those hearts that are providing the Funseekers with the wonderful Branson experience that they thought was lost forever.

CAM Gospel Sing-Off provides great Gospel music to help feed hungry families

2010 winners "The Petersen Family Band ."

The 12 finalists in the “Branson Christian Action Ministries’ (CAM) Gospel Sing-Off ” will provide Gospel music fans with some great gospel music as they compete in CAM’s 3rd annual Sing-Off for over $3,000 in prizes and the opportunity to sing at Silver Dollar City during the last day of its “Southern Gospel Music Picnic.” The Sing-Off is at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 4 in the Sight and Sound Theatre, the home of spectacular productions of “NOAH the Musical,” “Joseph” (starting in 2012) and the “Miracle of Christmas”.

The 12 finalists in the Sing-Off were selected from over 40 who entered the competition by a preliminary judging panel. In alphabetical order they are: 2nd Generation, Berryville, AR; Todd Braschler, Wichita, KS; Connected, Branson; Missy Essary, Kirbyville; Forgiven, Bartlesville, OK; Jericho from DeSoto; Missouri. Southern Raised, Crane; Larry Moore, Branson; Roger Null, Breckenridge; One for All, Harrison, AR; Debra Lynn Paxton, Branson and The Branson Hawaiians.

The vocal band SIX.

A panel of six celebrity judges has been charged with the difficult job of determining the winners. In alphabetical order the judges are: Bogie Bohinc, nationally known  guitarist; John Bartley, former entertainment photojournalist for the Chicago Tribune; Ben Dutton, of The Dutton Family; George Dyer, world famous tenor; Jak Knudsen, of the vocal group SIX and Ronnie Page of The Downing Street Boys gospel quartet and former baritone singer/emcee with the Oak Ridge Boys.

Bob Hubbard of the Foggy River Boys and The Jordanaires will emcee this wonderful afternoon of entertainment for the 3rd year in a row. In addition, one of Branson’s hottest groups, the vocal band SIX will start things off as only they can; The Petersen Family Band, the 2010 winners will perform as well as “noted saxophonist Gary Dooms.”

CAM Board Chairman Jack Burke points out that the Sing-Off is a major source of fundraising for CAM’s Food Pantry. He said, “We are trusting God and the good-hearted people of our community to sell out all 2,200 seats at the theater. This is the only fundraiser of the year to help cover are operational expenses and we’ve never seen the need as great as it is right now. Normally we can catch our breath during the summer and get ready for the upcoming winter. However, this year demand has continued to increase and we’ve been helping over 1,000 families per month to keep food on their table.”

Tickets for the Christian Action Ministries’ (CAM) Gospel Sing-Off are available through the Sight & Sound Theatres reservations at 1-800-377-1277, at the Sight & Sound Theatre’s lobby box office or through the Branson Tourism Center at 1-800-785-1550. Reserved seat tickets are a $12 donation for adults and $6 for children 12 and under. For additional information on the Christian Action Ministries’ (CAM) Gospel Sing-Off please feel free to contact the Branson Tourism Center at 1-800-785-1550.

Have an unforgettable Labor Day Weekend in Branson

Labor Day weekend is the last chance to ride White Water's 7-story multiple slide "Kalani Towers" for the 2011 season.

BRANSON, Mo.  Throughout the nation, Labor Day is kind of the “informal” end of the summer season and most people look forward to the three day weekend as a special time to enjoy the fun and excitement of summer with their families one more time. With its three lakes, live shows, world class theme parks, attractions, shopping and other activities from fireworks to concerts, Branson is the perfect place to do just that, not only on Labor Day, but just about any time of the year.

One of the big things to do over Labor Day weekend for a lot of people coming to Branson is to enjoy its lakes. Both Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo, although two entirely different lakes in terms of the recreation they provide because of the differences in water temperature, are at normal levels as compared to the much higher levels that they started the Summer with over the Memorial Day weekend. From trout fishing to bass fishing, boating, swimming and just about any water sport Branson’s lakes are ready to provide a wonderful and exciting weekend on the water.

“The wonderful thing about having fun on Branson’s lakes,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, “is that the fun doesn’t stop there.” All Branson’s shows, attractions, shopping and other activities are, but minutes away from its lakes. One of Branson’s favorite shows and attractions is actually located and operated on Table Rock Lake, the fabulous Showboat Branson Belle with its cruise, dinner and show and one of Branson’s major shopping attractions, Branson Landing with its shops, restaurants, and famous fire, water and music show is located on the shores of Lake Taneycomo.

The vast majority of Branson’s 100 attractions, shows, shopping, restaurants and everything else that makes Branson one of the nation’s premier travel destinations will be open. All of Branson’s attractions will be open including Silver Dollar City, Branson’s award winning theme park which will be celebrating the final days of its Southern Gospel Picnic. White Water, with its millions of gallons of water and fun, the new “Aloha River at Hula Hula Bay” and its iconic seven story multi slide thrill ride “Kalani Towers” will be open for its final weekend of the season. The Branson Titanic Museum Attraction will be boarding passengers for its exciting and unique “voyage” as well as continuing its events leading up to the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the ship which includes the opportunity to participate in the “Rose Petal Memorial Tribute At Sea.” To see a list of attractions that will be open, sorted by day and time, along with prices, descriptions, pictures and, in most cases, videos, click here.

As would be expected in the city called “The live music show capital of the world,” the vast majority of Branson’s live shows will be open, offering Branson visitors an unsurpassed opportunity to experience some of the best live entertainment in the world. With over 100 live shows to pick from there is sure to be one that is just right for everyone. To see a list of shows that will be open, sorted by day and time, along with prices, show descriptions, pictures and, in most cases, videos click here.

Labor Day Weekend will be a shopper’s delight with the vast majority of Branson’s unique specialty shops open, including Historic Downtown Branson, as well as the Grand Village, Imax Complex and other areas all over Branson. Its two major outlet malls, the Tanger Outlet Center and Factory Merchants Branson, as well as its major shopping mall, Branson Landing, will be open and providing Branson visitors with the great shopping experience for which Branson is famous.

For more information on Branson’s Labor Day Weekend events or tickets for Branson’s 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.

Win a “Royal Wedding” on the $1 million staircase of the Titanic Museum Attraction

The "Royal Wedding" will be held on the spectacular "Grand Staircase."*

BRANSON, Mo. April 15 of 2012 will be the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the “unsinkable” RMS Titanic in the north Atlantic Ocean after hitting an iceberg late in the evening on April 14. Although the Titanic Museum Attractions “pay respect to and honor” the “2,208 passengers and crew members” who perished “the museums are honoring the 100 Year Anniversary of Titanic’s maiden voyage” with a series of “special events, activities, and ceremonies” leading up to April 15, 2012. One of the special events is the “Titanic Museum Attractions’ Royal Wedding Contest” honoring the honeymooning couples who were on board the Titanic.

To most, prior to James Cameron’s 1997 multi-academy award winning movie “Titanic,” romance was not what came to mind when one thought of the “Titanic.” Cameron’s epic film of the disaster and the fictional love story between “Rose DeWitt Bukater,” played by Kate Winslet and “Jack Dawson,” played by Leonardo DiCaprio, certainly changed that perception, but perhaps more towards accuracy than not.

Aboard the Titanic, as she steamed toward her destiny on her fateful maiden voyage, were at least 12 honeymooning couples. The vast majority of those couples did not survive the disaster because of the “woman and children first” rule enforced by the ship’s crew. One of the fortunate couples to survive was Ethel Beane, a 17 year old bride and her husband Edward. More common, was the case of the Astors, where Madeline was separated from her husband, John Jacob Astor IV, at the lifeboats. She survived, he did not.

In honor of the 12 honeymooning couples who were aboard the Titanic, the “Titanic Museum Attractions’ Royal Wedding Contest” will “give away its own ‘Royal Wedding.'” The wedding will take place on the “million-dollar Grand Staircase of the Titanic Museum Attraction,” which “is exact in every detail to the one passengers walked on board the “RMS Titanic.” Two Royal Weddings will be awarded, one for each Titanic Museum Attraction location Branson, Missouri and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

Couples wishing to enter the contest must complete an online form, available at www.TitanicAttraction.com, along with complete contest rules and timelines, and submit it along with a video “introducing themselves, telling about their relationship, and explaining why they should win the ‘Royal Wedding'” by November 28, 2011. Between then and December 6 the Titanic Museum Attraction will pick three finalists for each location.

Beginning December 6 the public will be able to view the videos of the finalists online and vote. The winner will be the video receiving the most votes and will announced on January 16, 2012. Beginning on January 30, 2012 the public will begin a series of separate online votes for the brides wedding gown, the wedding cake and “Royal Wedding flowers.” The date of the Titanic Museum Attraction’s Royal Wedding will be announced March 30.

“What a special wedding these winners will be receiving,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, “and what a great way to get the public involved in remembering and honoring what happened on the Titanic almost 100 years ago. It’s always a great time to experience a voyage aboard the Titanic Museum Attraction, but there is just something special about doing it during its 100th year anniversary.”

For additional information or tickets for the 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 by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

* Photo courtesy of Branson Titanic Museum Attraction

T. Morgan Crain paints the “art” in artist

Tom Crain at his easel in his downtown Branson studio/gallery.

Many times when people refer to “artists” from Branson they are referring to one of Branson’s great entertainers. However, when they refer to T.(Tom) Morgan Crain as being an artist from Branson they are referring to Branson’s preeminent wildlife, bird, western, outdoor and nostalgia painter and one of the top painters of such subjects in the nation. How good is he?

Although, in his illustrious 32 year career as an artist he had won the prestigious Ducks Unlimited Artist of the Year and was the first two time winner of the Missouri Waterfowl Stamp Design, until 2010he had not entered a State Duck Stamp Competition for about 20 years. In 2010 he decided he wanted to compete again so he entered competition in 10 states. Out of those ten states he placed in eight winning in three, Missouri, Ohio and Delaware.

T. Morgan Crain's winning 2011 Missouri Duck Stamp painting of a pair of Redhead Ducks.*

If that’s not amazing enough, Crain’s first place winner in the 2011 Ohio Wetlands Habitat Stamp Design Competition, sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife, was of two mallards in flight. Prior to submitting that painting for the Ohio competition Crain had not painted a Mallard in over six year. “But,” he said” I just had a feeling that that species might do well in Ohio.” Although decades apart, Crain’s painting of a pair of “Redhead” ducks swimming at the Montrose Conservation Area won first place in the 2011 Missouri Duck Stamp and Print sponsored by Ducks Unlimited, making him a three time winner!

And if the genius of this quiet, unassuming and humble man stopped there that alone would be amazing, but it doesn’t. That’s just part of one year out of 32 years and one area out of the many in which he paints. Tom’s career highlights include, among others, work for the Franklin Mint, over 20 magazine covers for Cabela’s, Ozark Mountaineer, Fiocchi of America, Blue Book of Gun Values, Springfield Magazine and others as well as 22 plus limited edition prints and countless individual commissions.

His magnificent masterpiece of a Bald Eagle in flight, “Home of the Brave,” which toured Asia in 2000 and received a medal in China, is indicative of not only the detail of his paintings, but the spirit affection, love, and appreciation that this gentle, artistic and personable man has for what he is painting. His “eagles” are so lifelike, their coloring, detail and character so impeccable that one expects them to fly off the canvas.

Tom said that the medium he uses the most is acrylics and that he particularly enjoys painting wildlife, nostalgia, western and landscapes with “commissioned pieces” being his specialty. He said, “I am grateful for the talent that God has given me and I want to use that gift to bless people.”

Tom can be found, most Mondays through Saturdays, in his studio, “Crain Creations Gallery” located at 214 S. Main Street in historic downtown Branson. The next time you are in Branson plan to stop by the gallery and studio, which is as warm, comfortable and inviting as the artist himself, and meet this amazing artist and individual. For further information either visit the Crain Creations Gallery Website or call (417) 239-3710.

Photo courtesy of T. Morgan Crain with all rights reserved.

Branson’s unique vibrant downtown district filled with history and fun

Free Downtown Trolley is both an attraction and a connection between Historic Downtown Branson and Branson Landing.

BRANSON, Mo. “What a blessing,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, “even in these trying economic times, historic downtown Branson is vibrant, alive and thriving.” She points out that the historic downtown district has it all, fun, shows, festivals, restaurants, shopping, attractions and history all in a unique, quaint, comfortable and laid back atmosphere that truly represents “small town” America at its best.

In terms of history, Branson, Missouri, the place that is today called “The live music capital of the world” got its start in historic downtown Branson. The “Baldknobbers Jamboree,” credited with being the “show that started it all,” held the city of Branson’s first commercial theatre performances in a small rented space inside a civic center building located in historic downtown Branson. Historic downtown Branson is the location the of grave of the man Branson is named after, Ruben S. Branson; it’s oldest free standing building Sullenger’s Saloon and the only buildings to survive the 1912 fire that virtually destroyed Branson’s downtown district within months after it was incorporated as a city on April 1, 1912.

If you’re thinking that makes Branson 100 years old in 2012 you’re right. And what a century it’s been, truly “A Century to Celebrate!” Branson’s Centennial Celebration, during the entire year of 2012, will do just that honoring “100 years of Heritage, Harmony & Hospitality.”

But, historic downtown Branson is much more than just history. With festivals, parades, shows, restaurants, attractions, and shopping galore, it’s a wonderful place to relax have fun and experience a special and unique part of Branson.

Its three primary festivals, “Plumb Nellie Days,” the “Fiddle Festival,” and “Autumn Daze,” help preserve Ozarks history and culture in terms of arts, crafts, music and just getting together and having fun. Historic downtown Branson has two major parades each year; “The Branson Veteran’s Day Parade,” which has been held at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month for the last 77 years and its “Adoration Day Parade,” a night parade which has been held for 64 years, honoring the true meaning of Christmas.

It offers shows such as Elvis and the Superstars, Breakfast with Mark Twain, Motown Downtown and others. It has a selection of restaurants located close together that includes four of Branson’s oldest the “Branson Café,” “Farm House,” “The Shack” and “Clockers,” all located within a block of each other and noted for their home-style cooking; “Rocky’s Italian Restaurant” and its three newest restaurants, Branson’s upscale “Level 2 Steakhouse,” located in the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel; the unique “Table 22,” “where the earth speaks,” and the “Downtown Dinner” located next to the historic Owen Theatre.

Just one of the many aisles of merchandise in the unique shopping experience that is Dicks 5 & 10.

Historic downtown Branson is a shopper’s dream in terms of the unique shopping opportunities it offers. From unique shops such as “Branson Bills Emporium” “Rosa’s Lost Treasure Chest,” “Lil’ Shoppe of Leather” “Hollywood Studio Store & More,” the “Burlington Annex” and dozens of others, the shopping experience in historic downtown Branson is unique and special. And, if that’s not enough there is a “Free Downtown Trolley” service” between the historic downtown district and Branson Landing, which opens up a whole new area of exciting shopping opportunities.

And that’s not counting ,“Dick’s 5 & 10,” celebrating its 50th anniversary during 2011, a one of a kind shopping experience harking back to the old time “5 & 10” stores. Dicks is so unique that it is also one of Branson’s most popular attractions. It’s wide selection of varied merchandise has led some to say, “If you can’t find it at Dick’s you don’t need it.” Historic downtown Branson also has other attractions such as horse and buggy ride,a  “Free Downtown Trolley” that runs through the historic downtown area to Branson Landing and along the Lake Taneycomo Lakefront every few minutes, the Branson Scenic Railway, and its newest attraction, the “Gone With the Wind Museum” commemorating the spectacular 1939 film that won 10 academy awards. In this writer’s opinion, the totality of the experience that historic downtown Branson offers is in itself an attraction.

When Branson became a city on April 1, 1912 downtown Branson was the “heart” of its business district, now almost 100 years later, in terms of history, heritage, harmony, and hospitality, it’s still a major part of the “heartbeat” that makes Branson the special place that it is. For additional information on historic downtown Branson and all it has to offer 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 by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Look at the stars performing limited engagements in Branson this Fall!

Multiple Grammy award winner Michael Bolton

BRANSON, Mo. The seasons and weather may change, but one thing that is a constant, in the place called “The live music show capital of the world,” is the variety and quality of its live entertainment. From the comedy to acrobats, horses to tigers and music representing just about every musical genre Branson has a choice of live entertainment available on a daily basis during the season, that is unsurpassed by any destination city in the world.

“The breadth of the entertainment offered in Branson becomes even more amazing when one considers the limited engagement performances performed during the year,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “Just look at the amazing acts coming to Branson this Fall,” she continued. “And that’s in addition to all of Branson’s other great live shows. If a person wants live entertainment, in a friendly, safe, family environment, why would they go anywhere else?”

The following list, current as of August 17, 2011, shows the major limited engagement acts scheduled for this Fall in Branson. It includes a link for each to a show description, schedule, pictures and ticket prices and is sorted alphabetically by date:

Christian Action Ministries’ Gospel Sing-Off, September 4

Andy Williams with guest Ann-Margret, September 12 through October 22. The Andy Williams Christmas Show runs from November 1 through December 10.

Gatlin Brothers, September 20 – 22

Oak Ridge Boys, September 20 – 22

Bill Anderson – A Night With A Legend, September 23 and 24

Brule, October 4 – November 18

Gatlin Brothers, October 4 – 20

Oak Ridge Boys, October 4 – 20

Neal McCoy, October 6 – 28

Michael Bolton, October 8

Aaron Tippin, Sammy Kershaw and Joe Diffie, October 15

Mid West Country Stars, October 18 – 20

Tim Conway and Friends, October 21 – 22

Marty Stewart, October 21 – 22

Don Williams with guest Little Jimmy Dickens, October 22

Vicki Lawrence/Mama, November 4 – 5

Although not Fall limited engagements, Johnson suggests that those wanting to see the Andy Williams Christmas Show, Johnny Mathis Christmas Show November 18 – 19 or the Glen Campbell Farewell Concert, with special guest Restless Heart, December 2 – 3 should make their reservations as soon as possible.

For additional information or tickets for any of the limited engagement performances mentioned in this article 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.

Presleys’ Country Jubilee is a Branson entertainment experience without peer

Ambrus Presley singing "I Will Always Love You."

BRANSON, Mo.  Every night, as the curtain of the Presleys’ Country Jubilee Show (Presleys’) goes up, the audience becomes part of two wonderful unique experiences. They become part of Branson history and get to enjoy the legendary, one of a kind, music and comedy variety show that has made the Presleys’ a have to see show in Branson for over 44 years.

The history “experience” really started over 44 years ago, in June of 1967, as Lloyd and Bessie Presley “grabbed for their dream” of performing in their own theatre in Branson. To make the dream a reality they sold their family home in Springfield, Missouri, moved their entire family to Branson and became “Branson’s original show on the strip.”

Performing in that show were two of their sons, Gary and his younger brother Steve who have been continuously performing as a regular part of the show ever since, Gary as the incomparably funny “Herkimer” and Steve as the show’s drummer. Their 44 year run is the longest continuous performance run of any Branson entertainer. Each night they step on the stage the audience gets to participate in a new page of Branson history as it is being written.

And what a fun and entertaining way to become a part of that history as the audience also gets to experience two of the most entertaining hours available on any Branson stage. In a 2007 review of Presleys’, which he has quoted in subsequent reviews of the show simply because that opinion has remained unchanged, this writer said, “It is doubtful that one will find a show that entertains them or their families more or that has more musical or comedic talent than Presleys’ Country Jubilee.” After seeing the 2011 show recently I would have to underscore that and, without taking anything away from the great entertainment experience this show has always been, say, “There is just something extra special about this year’s show.”

Greg Presley is a master on the harmonica.

Like many Branson shows, and for good reason, they helped create the model decades ago, Presleys’ follows the time tested Branson entertainment model of presenting a variety show of music, both vocals and instrumental, and comedy. That said however, it must be pointed out that it’s not what they do, but from music to comedy, how they do it that makes Presleys’ Country Jubilee the special unique entertainment experience it is and separates it from any other show in Branson.

The shows variety of music covers everything from rock and roll, to gospel, country, classical and more all performed by musicians and vocalist who are not only very good at what they do, but appear to love what they do and relate well to the audience. The Presleys bring their own unique style and arrangements to the music in their show. It’s a wonderful thing to sit in the audience and listen to these talented performers take a piece of music and “make it their own.”

Although there were many, in terms of writing this review, this writer’s three favorite vocal moments were Ambrus Presley singing the Dolly Parton Classic, “I Will Always Love You;” Kimberly Barber’s rendition of the song that won Miranda Lambert a Grammy in 2010, “The House that Built Me” and the Gospel classic, “I Bowed on My Knees” by the shows gospel quartet consisting of Bruce Haynes, Tim Gregg, Jay Wickizer and Chuck Crain. In terms of instrumentals, his three favorites would be, John Presleys’ unique rendition of “Chopsticks,” Greg Presleys’ great harmonica version of “Southbound” and the Presleys’ version of “Dueling Banjoes” with lead in by Mark Walker on the five string banjo.

"Herkimer," red shirt, and "Cecil," with a little assist from "Cecil Jr," provide their own unique and funny brand of comedy.

When it comes to comedy, the Presleys’ Country Jubilee is in a class by itself, not only in Branson, but anywhere, for the uniqueness, quality and variety of its humor. Whether it’s a one liner about today’s current events, a discussion of “Patti Possum Lips,” by “Herkimer,” played by Gary Presley; a comical demonstration of making a balloon “Poodle” for presentation to an audience member by his stage son, “Cecil,” who also happens to be his real son Eric or one of the many original comedy segments strategically placed throughout the show, the audience is kept in a constant state of laughter and expectation.  They simply don’t know what’s coming next from this zany and funny duo, or “Wait a minute, is that a trio, is there a ‘Cecil Junior?'”

One of the remarkable things about the Presleys’ Country Jubilee is that although the show is constantly changing and evolving, in terms of music and comedy, Presleys’ is the perfect example of “The more things change the more they remain the same.” Although the content, costuming and other aspects of the show change to provide new freshness, the basic quality and format that has endeared the Presleys’ to their audience for all these years has not. It is more than ever, “a special and unique Branson entertainment experience that cannot be duplicated anywhere else by anyone else.” Not to see the Presleys’ Country Jubilee while in Branson would be like going to New York City and not seeing the “Statute of Liberty.”

For additional information or tickets for Presleys’ Country Jubilee 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.