Author Archives: O. C. Gull

Branson Landing and Branson is open and brimming over with fun, excitement and adventure

Even with the last of the rain showers passing through the area the Branson Landing Promenade is open for business.

BRANSON, Mo.  “All Branson Landing’s shops and retail stores are and have been open for business throughout this record high water and are providing our visitors with the same quality shopping experience as always,” said Tammy Scholten, the Director of Marketing for Branson Landing. Scholten pointed out that although it is located right on the banks of Lake Taneycomo, which is currently experiencing record high flows of water because of the water being released from Table Rock Dam, its retail promenade level, where all the landings retail shops are located, was built to permit their continued normal operation under conditions just like these.

She points out that the record releases have covered the fountains located at the lower levels, well away from its promenade level near the lake’s normal shoreline, forcing the temporary cancellation of the Fountain’s water, fire, light and music shows. In addition, it has resulted in the temporary closing of the floating White River Fish House Restaurant and the restaurants located on the east side of the promenade because of restrictions relating to using the propane their use for cooking which is located in the lower levels.

After talking with Sholten, this writer walked the Branson Landing promenade and did not find one shop or store that was closed. He enjoyed lunch at “Charley’s Grilled Subs,” serving what he considers the best steak sub in Branson. As he walked back to his car he observed many, just like himself enjoying themselves and having a good time.

Some might be asking the question, “But the media is showing pictures of Branson being flooded, how can Branson Landing, located right on the shoreline of the very lake that is flooding still be open?” The answer is simple, “Because the vast majority of Branson, particularly the areas of Branson containing its shopping, shows, attractions, and a host of other exciting and fun filled activities has not been impacted one iota by the record high water levels.” The pictures and stories in the media are based on what is happening to a few homes and businesses in certain low-lying areas directly off of Lake Taneycomo and do not relate to any of Branson’s shows, attractions, and shopping; historic Downtown or other areas normally frequented by the majority Branson’s visitors.
Branson Landing and Branson is open and brimming over with fun, excitement and adventure

On April 27th Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley said that the few areas affected by the record high water levels in Branson are primarily residential areas that the typical Branson tourist would not be visiting. She points out that these areas are located quite a distance from Branson’s shows, attractions and those activities that the majority of Branson’s guests participate in and will not impact on their Branson experience at all.

Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services reports that all of Branson’s attractions, shows, and major tourist activities are open and have not been impacted by what is happening in some of the low-lying areas of Lake Taneycomo. She said that anyone having a questions about the availability of Branson shows, attractions or lodging may call BTC using their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or reach them through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

From Branson Landing on the shores of Lake Taneycomo on the east to Silver Dollar City on the west, Branson is open and sharing its new 2011 Branson season with even more excitement, adventure and entertainment than ever. It’s not only a great entertainment experience, but a great value. Why not plan to share it with your family this season?

Fill your Easter with Branson spirit, fun and excitement

The spectaular and unique view from Silver Dollar city's world class coaster, "Wildfire."

BRANSON, Mo. “The combination of its core beliefs, spirit and values, along with all the amazing opportunities it provides for fun, entertainment, shopping and just plain relaxing, all amidst the natural wonder and beauty of the Ozarks makes Branson a unique and special place to visit not only during Easter, but all year-round,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “From a Sunrise Service on the shores of beautiful Lake Taneycomo, to Easter Egg hunts, numerous buffet choices and all the shows, attractions, entertainment, and shopping that Branson is known for, Easter in Branson is a special time.”

The immediate Branson area has dozens of churches of every denomination that will be celebrating the true meaning of Easter with special services. Click here for a list of most of the Branson Area Churches with contact information. There will be a special Sunrise Service and Breakfast in the beautiful Rockaway Beach Park on the shores of Lake Taneycomo starting at 6:45 a.m. on Easter morning.

A special Easter meal is a traditional part of the celebration of Easter for many people. With over 200 restaurants in Branson, there is no problem finding just the right restaurant, meal and price range for your Easter meal. Here’s a list of some of Branson’s most popular restaurants and buffets as listed on www.Branson.com. For many, an Easter buffet is traditional. The Golden Coral, Grand Country Buffet and others offer great buffets on a daily basis and Easter will be no exception. In addition, click here for information about the elaborate Easter buffets being offered by the Keeter Center at the College of the Ozarks, Level 2 Steak House at the Hilton Branson Convention Center and the Chateau on the Lake. The Easter dinner cruise aboard the beautiful Branson Landing Princess is yet another choice that is available. Another exciting and fun filled dining and entertainment option is the excitement and adventure of Dixie Stampede.

Two major Easter Egg hunts are scheduled, one sponsored by the Hollister Chamber of Commerce and the other by Factory Merchants Mall. The Factory Merchants Mall (Red Top Mall) Easter Egg Hunt is for children ages 10 and under, will be held in the upper courtyard, have a special area set aside for toddlers and will start promptly at 10:30 a.m. The 26th Annual Hollister Easter Egg Hunt will be conducted on Saturday, April 23rd from 12:30 – 2:00pm at the Hollister High School Football Field. It includes children’s activities and games such as giant inflatable’s, clowns, face-painting plus a visit from the Easter Bunny. The event starts at 12:30 p.m. with the Easter Egg Hunt starting at 1:00 p.m. promptly.

Branson’s largest and most popular attraction, Silver Dollar City will be open throughout the Easter week except April 24 – 26 with it celebration of World-Fest continuing until May 8

3 Red Neck Tenors, Billy Joe, right, Billy Billee and Billy Bob

In addition, the majority of Branson Attractions will be open for the entire Easter week including The Titanic Museum, The Track Family Fun Parks, Hollywood Wax Museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, and the Vigilante Zipline to name a few. Branson’s championship golf courses, as well as hiking, fishing, boating, shopping and all the other exciting and fun filled activities that Branson is known for are also available for Easter visitors enjoy.

And of course, what would the Branson experience be like without its live shows? Most of Branson’s live shows are open for the season and will be performing their regular schedules throughout Easter week. In addition, the following shows also be open on Easter Sunday and are sorted alphabetically by time:

9:00 a.m.
IMAX Theater

2:00 p.m.
A Tribute to Marty Robbins
Always Patsy Cline
Red, Hot & Blue
Shake Rattle & Roll
Sunday Gospel Jubilee

3:00 p.m.
Legends in Concert

5:30 p.m.
Dixie Stampede

7:00 p.m.
Motown Downtown
Ozark Mountain Jubilee

8:00 pm
3 Redneck Tenors
Acrobats of China
Alabama Revival
Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express
Hank Williams Revisited
Haygoods
Hooray for Hollywood
Jim Stafford
Legend of Kung Fu
Legends in Concert
Mickey Gilley

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson points out that in addition to Branson’s great lineup of regular shows there will be limited engagement performances during Easter week by the Oak Ridge Boys, Charlie Daniel’s Band and Sawyer Brown.

For additional information or tickets for any of the shows, attractions or activities listed in this article 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.

World-Fest’s “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling” will have you smiling

Dearbhail Finnegan playing "Inisheer" on the Irish Harp.

BRANSON, Mo. All eyes are smiling not just Irish eyes at Silver Dollar City‘s “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling” show being presented as part of the nation’s biggest international festival, World-Fest. As I sat in the show reviewing it for the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, I was struck by the unique beauty of the music and its manner of presentation.

Anyone who appreciates Irish music or wants a special and unique musical experience will simply love this show. It is a straight forward, simple, and elegant presentation of Irish music well played and sung by a great harpist, a wonderfully talented tenor vocalist and a great live band.

From her very first note on the Irish Harp or “Clairseach,” the official National Emblem of Ireland, it is very clear why Dearbhail Finnegan is considered Ireland’s Premier Harpist. It is one of those unique and beautiful things that, but for World-Fest most people would never experience and, the sad thing is, would never know what they had missed. Although she plays a number of songs, my personal favorites were her lilting presentation of “Inisheer,” about the small island of Inisheer, located in Galaway Bay, Ireland and her rendition of “How Are Things in Glocca Morra” from the musical “Finian’s Rainbow.

Michael Londra during his performance of "Danny Boy."

From his opening number, the modern Irish folk song called, “Wild Mountain Thyme” or “Will You Go Lassie, Go” to his closing number, a touching presentation of “Danny Boy,” the tenor voice of Ireland’s Premier Tenor, Michael Londra is a joy to hear. The unique way that both Dearbhail and Michael interact with the audience simply enhances the entertainment experience and by the time they joined together with the audience for the finale, “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling,” this writer had a smile not only in his eyes, but in his heart.

Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center said that “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling” is but one of the special shows and activities being presented for World-Fest. Other shows and acts include the “Russian Academic Band;” “Diego Martin Footprints Folk Performers” from Trinidad and Tobago with steel drums, stilt dancing and fire limbo; “Ecuador Manta;” “Canadian Powerhouse,” world-championship fiddlers and step-dancers and the “Mayorov Russian State Circus” featuring the “German Wheel,” amazing acrobatic feats, barbell juggling, comedy and much more.

She points out that all the World-Fest activities and shows 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 a new $1 million “Half Dollar Holler” designed for kids through age 7 and dozens of demonstrating craftsmen. World-Fest will continue through May 8.

New excitement as the Showboat Branson Belle again cruises Table Rock Lake

The magnificent Showboat Branson Belle as she leave the dock on her first cruise of 2011.

BRANSON, Mo. – Amid an aura of excitement, Senior Captain Don McMahon edged the Showboat Branson Belle away from her moorings at the White River Landing on Table Rock Lake for its 4:00 p.m. cruise on April 7. It  marked the beginning of a new era for the magnificent ship as she cruised the waters of Table Rock Lake for the first time since she drifted ashore in December of 2010.

Jim Moeskau, General Manager of the Showboat said that they were excited to actually be cruising again and being able to add that element back into the experience that is the “Showboat Branson Belle.” He went on to say that, in addition to a brand new state of the art propulsion system, major changes have been made to the interior of the ship, particularly the show room, lighting, the show and the menu. He said, “It’s an all new experience this year. Even if you have been on the showboat before you really haven’t experienced anything like you will experience this year.”

He points out that the show is completely different from anything the Showboat has had in its 15 year history. Entitled “ENCORE!,” it features the artistry and talent of Janice Martin, a world class, Julliard trained violinist, musician and vocalist as she brings her unique talents to the Branson Belle’s stage. One of the highlights of the show is her aerial silk performance high above the stage as she plays the violin.

Also appearing in ENCORE! is a new six man vocal and dancing group called “The Showmen” who perform a powerful blend of harmonies and solo performances with a variety of music from the 60’s 70’s and 80’s. Christopher James will be returning as the master of ceremonies, magician and comedian, and the Showboat’s signature live band “Rockin’ Dockers” complete the shows cast.

“In addition to the new show, there is an entirely new menu,” Moeskau said. The dinner cruise includes Beef Tenderloin in a Cabernet Sauce and Mediterranean Chicken Kabobs with a touch of Dijon Sauce, Sweet Potato Mash and French Green Beans and a fabulous dessert, “Anna Belle’s Golden Brittle Torte” drizzled with caramel.

“Ladona,” who recently experienced the 2011 Showboat experience prior to today’s cruise said, “This is a great show for any age with great food and service. I loved the shows variety with music, magic, an aerialist and the violin and the way it rotates between the different acts to keep things fresh and moving along. My favorite performer was Janice Martin, the violinist, aerialist and singer and my favorite part of the show was when she  played “Stairway to Heaven” on the violin while doing her aerial silk act.”

“We at Branson Tourism Center share the excitement of having the Showboat Branson Belle again cruising on Table Rock Lake.” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “It is one of our most popular shows and attractions receiving consistently high reviews from our clients and staff.”

For additional information or tickets for the Showboat Branson Belle 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.

How 4 and no red neck jokes equals the 3 Red Neck Tenors

What a funny musical journey it is from this in Paris, Texas...

In one of the funniest and most relaxed interviews he has ever had the pleasure of participating in, Matthew Lord, one of the 3 Red Neck Tenors set him straight on a couple of things. There are actually four and not all of them are tenors. He plays “Billy Joe” in the show along with “Billy Bob” and “Billy Billee,” who was named after his ma’s pa “Billy Floyd” and his pa’s pa “Billee Duane” from which they came up with the “imaginatory” name of “Billy Billee.”

Lord said that in spite of the name of the show and its humorous content, “There’s not a red neck joke in our show” explaining that the show is actually about the humorous and musical journey of “3 Red Necks” from a trailer park to the opera in New York City and they wouldn’t be making “red neck” jokes about themselves. Actually, having seen the shorter version of the 3 Red Neck Tenors that appeared in Branson last year, this writer can testify that this show doesn’t need “pure red neck jokes” to have you rolling in laughter. Click here for his review of that show.

Lord points out that the show artfully incorporates a blend of unique humor and a variety of music including country, pop and classical into a two hour comedy and musical entertainment experience that entertains audiences of all ages. When asked if people have expressed a desire for one type of music more than another he said that happens. Some want more pop or country etc, but the “most popular number we do in the show, bar none, is ‘Nessun dorma’ from the opera ‘Turandot’ by Puccini and made extremely popular by Pavarotti.” Having heard the number last year in their show this writer can readily understand the truth in that statement.

to this in Carnegie Hall. Left to right, Alex Bumpas a.k.a. Billy Joe, Matthew Lord, a.k.a. Billy Bob and Blake Davidson, a.k.a. Billy Billee

He said that audiences really appreciate the patriotic medley at the end of the show. Lord said it was not put in the show just for Branson, but was designed into the show six years ago when it was originally written, in part in honor of his dad who was a Veteran of World War II and Korea. As is the case with the whole show, it is performed in Branson exactly the same way as it has been performed since the beginning including their performances in Las Vegas because it was conceived and written for the whole family to enjoy and required no cleaning up or modifying for Branson audiences.

Lord said they are looking forward to being able to present their full two hour show for a full season in Branson at the beautiful Mansion Theatre. “The addition of the ‘3 Redneck Tenors’ to the exciting lineup of live shows in Branson adds another unique quality entertainment experience for Branson visitors to experience,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center who also points out that they are scheduled to perform in Branson from April 22 through December 10.

For additional information or tickets for the 3 Red Neck Tenors 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.

Informal personal mini reviews on some of Branson’s most popular shows

Jim Stafford performing during March 31st matinee.

As would be expected in Branson, Missouri, a place noted as the “Live music show capital of the world,” there are any number of reviews written on its shows by Branson writers including this writer. Almost without exception, they are a “review” and description of the contents of the show and are not a formal critical review, which in the opinion of this writer, would be meaningless in the Branson entertainment environment of just having fun.

It has been this writer’s experience that Branson has some of the finest musicians, singers, shows and productions available anywhere. The people who come to Branson are not coming to write a critique or critical review of its shows, but to be entertained by and have fun at those shows. It is in that spirit that these mini personal reviews present the comments made by people, indicated only by their first name, on the Branson  shows  they have seen in the last week or so.

Presleys’ Country Jubilee

Mary – “I just loved it from beginning to end. It is my favorite show in Branson. I have seen it 20 times over the years and this is their top show. In fact we liked it so much we bought the shows DVD.

“I just loved the comedy and the jokes. Herkimer [Gary Presley] and Cecil [Eric Presley] are too much and the kids just loved it. They have such colorful costumes, the band is excellent and Ambrus [Presley] sings “I Will Always Love You,” so beautifully. The show was just superb.”

Jim Stafford Show

Patina and Don – “When we came to the show, we were in a blah mode because of the rain, clouds and no sun, but we’re in a light hearted sunny mood now. He’s really funny and so personable. His son and daughter are so fantastic on the piano. I loved the whole show and his guitar playing, but my favorite part is when he tells his jokes. We definitely recommend this show, it’s fantastic.”

Show Boat Branson Belle show “Encore!”

Debra -“It was a high energy show with a lot of audience interaction by Janice Martin, The ShowMen and Christopher James, who was very funny. Janice Martin is great at whatever she is doing in the show.

“Whether it’s playing the piano, violin, or singing it is intense. She is just so good. She is so in her element; the way she plays the violin is just unbelievable. I was really impressed when she played the violin while performing an aerial silk act high above the stage, but my favorite was her rendition of the ‘Orange Blossom Special.’

“You could just feel the energy level of the ‘The ShowMen’ throughout the audience as they sang songs of the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s and the live band was just awesome.”

LaDonna – This is a great show for any age with great food and service. I loved the shows variety with music, magic, an aerialist and the violin and the way it rotates between the different acts to keep things fresh and moving along. My favorite performer was Janice Martin, the violinist, aerialist and singer and my favorite part of the show was when she  played “Stairway to Heaven” on the violin while doing her aerial silk act.

Rankin Brothers Show

Debra – “The Ranking Brothers, Matt and Mark, are just full of energy and life and people are just amazed by their talent. While they are singing you can just close your eyes and picture the original artists they are performing. My favorite number in the show is when Matt sings the Righteous Brothers Bill Medley song, ‘Unchained Melody.’

“Whenever I go to their show I just watch the audience’s reaction  and the people that were around us are just amazed at the talent they have. They are awesome, hold the audience’s attention and relate so well to them. It is an awesome show that I will see again and recommend that people coming to Branson make this one of their top shows to see.”

For information on any of the shows mentioned in this article 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.

Free 2011 Branson Travel Guide available for download

Just one of the Guides many pictures, the 7-story multiple slide "Kalani Towers" at White Water. southwest Missouri's largest water park.

Branson, MO (03/29/11) “For those looking for a convenient way to get access to a lot of information on Branson, Missouri’s shows, attractions, lodging and everything else that is Branson in an easy to read book-like format, our free downloadable 2011Branson Vacation Guide, excuse the pun, just might be the ‘ticket,'” says Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. BTC has sold nearly three million Branson show and attraction tickets and is one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. “The Guide presents a lot of information in a familiar interesting, attractive, entertaining and precise manner,”

Johnson points out that the Guide is just another service that Branson Tourism Center provides for those interested in getting information on our favorite vacation destination. It is in addition to the extensive information provided on its websites which are updated on a daily basis.

Branson Tourism Center operates three major websites that provide extensive Branson information. These include www.Branson.Com, Branson’s first and most extensive website; www.BransonTourismCenter.Com, used in conjunction with its 800-785-1550 number to provide the free personal concierge type service for Branson visitors that BTC is noted for and www.BransonOnTheWeb.Com, a transactional site for those who want to do their own research and purchase tickets for Branson shows and attractions and their lodging on line.

The Guide is in a downloadable PDF format providing users with a familiar book-like look and interface. “It has everything from Branson history and average weather conditions for each month of the year to extensive information on Branson shows, attractions, lodging, golf, event schedules, area churches, lakes and much more. Its PDF format not only permits convenient and familiar viewing, but makes it easy to print for reading away from a computer.

This writer was particularly impressed with its organization and the beautiful photographs throughout. As an example, its listing of Branson Shows, organized alphabetically, contains a concise description of each show and is beautifully illustrated. It even has a section on the Limited Engagement shows that will be coming to Branson during 2011 starting with the Charlie Daniel’s Band and Sawyer Brown in April with acts like the Village People, Johnny Mathis and many more later in the year.

Johnson is quick to point out that the Guide is merely a supplement to BTC’s three websites and suggests they be consulted for the latest updates and changes. “Having said that however, it is a wonderful and convenient overview source of all that is Branson and yet another tool that can be used by those planning a trip to Branson,” she continued. Johnson offers the free services of Branson Tourism Center in answering any questions anyone might have about Branson or in assisting them with show or attraction tickets, lodging or anything else relating to the fun and excitement Branson offers. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Young Christians’ Weekend provides excitement, fun and inspiration

Fireflight, Justin Cox,left, Dawn Michele, Phee Shorb, Glenn Drennen, Wendy Drennen*

“What could be more fun than gathering together for a weekend of Christian fellowship, praise and worship, great concerts presented by some of the biggest names in Christian music and hearing inspiring messages that will delight the soul? asked Levi Kurtright, Director of Marketing for Branson Tourism Center. “How about having it all available at Silver Dollar City with all the thrilling rides, attractions, and fun it offers?” Well, it’s going to happen on the weekend of April 1-3 as Branson’s Silver Dollar City hosts the Midwest’s premier Christian youth event, ‘Young Christians’ Weekend,'” he continued.

Dove nominee, the modern rock act “Fireflight” get things started on Friday night, April 1, with a concert in the 4,000 seat Echo-Hollow Amphitheatre at 8:30 p.m. On Saturday, April 1, “Abandon” plus Dove Winner and Grammy nominated “Sanctus Real” perform mini concerts as part of a rally with speakerAdam Donyes from Kanakuk Kamps. The rallies will be held in the Echo-Hollow Amphitheatre at Noon, 3:00 p.m. and 6 p.m. Those wishing to attend one of the rallies are advised to chose the one they want to attend at the time they purchase their tickets to ensure availability.

Also featured on April 2 will be Tina Marie who has appeared in many TV Shows and films such as “The Suite Life of Zack and Cody,” “Malcolm in the Middle,” “Jimmie Kimmel Live” and others. As she exposes the lethal consequences of the glamorization of the “self-destructive behaviors portrayed in all entertainment mediums” she will encourage the young Christians attending “to live to their fullest potential by making positive media choices, thereby building higher self esteem and moral character.”

Sunday April 3 will feature two worship services in the Echo-Hollow Amphitheatre, one at 8:30 a.m. and the other at 11:00 a.m. Each will feature the music ofChristian recording artist, Caleb Rowden and Dove winner “Tenth Avenue North,”  who recently completed their “The Light Meets The Dark” tour. The speaker will be noted inspirational speaker, Joe White of Kanakuk Kamps.

“All of that is admist all the other excitement and fun that Silver Dollar City offers on a day to day basis,” said Branson Tourism Center’s Kurtright. The park has over 30 rides and attractions. Whether it’s a ride on “Wildfire,” the parks exhilarating world class multi-looping roller coaster that reaches speeds up to 66 miles per hour; a 0 to 53 miles per hour 2.8 second launch on PowderKeg; fun on “The GIANT Swing or one of its many other rides and attractions, the opportunities for fun, action and excitement at Silver Dollar City are endless.

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 (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.

*Photo courtesy of www.fireflightrock.com

Branson wins TripAdvisor recognition as one of “Great U.S. Destinations to Discover”

The Showboat Branson Belle cruising on Table Rock Lake combines the natural beauty of the Ozarks with great dining and entertainment.

“Over 7 million people a year get to experience firsthand what a great vacation destination Branson, Missouri is in terms of excitement, value and the number of things to do,” said Stephanie Milton, Director of Marketing for Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. “Thanks to the willingness of many of them to share their opinion about what a great Branson experience they had with TripAdvisor®, Branson was recently named a winner of its inaugural “Travelers’ Choice® Family Award-winning Great U.S. Destinations to Discover.”

The award was announced in a recent TripAdvisor press release stating it was based on millions of reviews and opinions. The award went to those destinations receiving “the greatest number of recommendations from reviewers who traveled with family” and Branson was one of only ten named in the category of “Great U.S. Destinations to Discover.”

The narrative with the listing explains that “Branson is called the Live Music Show Capital of the World.” It explained the breadth of the entertainment offered by Branson shows pointing out that its 50 plus theatres offer “almost 90 music, magic and comedy shows on any given day.” The narrative also summed up some of the other great activities that Branson has to offer its natural native Ozark’s beauty and outdoor activities such as water sports, fishing, hiking and biking. Milton points out that Branson has the same quality and choice in its other attractions and activities as it does for live shows and outdoor activities.

She believes that with Branson attractions like Silver Dollar City, The Shepherd of the Hills, White Water Titanic Museum, Hollywood Wax Museum and Ripley’s Believe It or Not to the Butterfly Palace, The World’s Largest Toy Museum or one of Branson’s championship golf courses there are attractions and activities that will provide families with a constant stream of exciting ways to have fun together. “When Branson’s great shopping and all the other things that Branson has to offer are factored in, it’s easy to appreciate what a great destination city Branson is for families,” Milton added.

Milton points out that this most recent recognition follows Branson being recognized as “A Top Ten Family Destination for 2010” on Fodor’s Travel Blog, being selected by the “American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA)” as one of the most budget friendly destinations for travelers in 2009 and others. “The recognition from organizations such as TripAdvisor, ASTA and others is wonderful, but from a personal perspective, the real joy comes from seeing the smiles and excited looks on the faces of families as they experience the entertainment, fun, excitement and adventure that is Branson as they create memories they will remember for a lifetime.”

Let’s use a little Branson Trivia for some respite from all that challenges us

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

Even with Spring in the air it seems likes folks are down a bit with the economy, the horror of what those in Japan are going through, terrorism and just the plain uncertainty of our times. Let’s relax and lighten up for just a few minutes and have some fun with something whose very name illustrates all that is good about America and offers respite, relaxation and peace from all that would weigh us down, our home and the place millions of people visit each year, Branson, Missouri.

We’ll work through a series of ten “trivia” questions followed by the answers. It’s not how many we get right, it’s just the fun and entertainment of doing it.

1. True or False, Branson’s biggest attraction is located within the city limits of Branson?

2. Table Rock Lake has how many miles of shoreline?

3. The title of being Branson’s first music show rests with the Baldknobbers Jamboree. What is the name of Branson’s first and longest running paid attraction?

4. How clever are “The Cleverlys?”

5. The majestic “Grand Staircase” of the Titanic Museum in Branson, is a precise replica of the “Grand Staircase” on the Titanic. What were the tiles used on the staircase made of.

6. How many lodging establishments are there in Branson?

7. On what date was the City of Branson officially incorporated?

8. Out of the five Missouri golf courses listed in Golfweek’s recent article on the best courses in America how many were in Branson and which ones are they?

9. Within five thousand either way, how many items does the unique “Dick’s 5 & 10” in historic downtown Branson sell?

10. What Branson entertainers performed in 18 cities throughout China earlier this year?

Answers:

1. False. Even though it has a “Branson, Missouri” mailing address, Silver Dollar City, Branson’s largest and most popular paid attraction, is located to the west of the Branson city limits on Indian Point.

2. 745 miles at its normal level, the “Conservation Pool,” and 857 miles at the top of its “Flood Control Pool.”

3. “Marble Cave,” was started by the Lynch Family in the late 1800’s and, except for a short period of time, has been operated as a Branson attraction ever since. The cave was renamed “Marvel Cave” and is currently located under and is part of the entertainment experience provided by Silver Dollar City.

4. Pretty clever because the Bluegrass band from “Cane Spur,” Arkansas has toured the United States, performed for an audience of about 40,000 at the closing of the 2010 CMA Fest in Nashville, TN and will be doing about 80 dates with one of Branson’s favorite comedians, Paul Harris at the Oak Ridge Boys Theatre in Branson during 2011. The thing is, no one has checked out the accuracy of their bio written by Vera Mae Paradine Cleverly, the sister to Digger, Miles and VD Cleverly and the mother to Harvey D and his twin brother Harvey C Cleverly. However, when one considers that Paul Harris is Digger why bother. Let’s just sit back, laugh, be entertained and listen to their wonderful music.

5. Linoleum.

6. Remembering that the term “Branson” is not limited to the city limits of Branson the latest statistics from the Branson Lake Area CVB says there are 208 such facilities with 22,000 rooms.

7. April 1, 1912. It’s no “April Fool’s” joke and the city of Branson will be celebrating its 100 anniversary in 2012.

8. The article named three, the Payne Stewart Golf Club, Branson Creek and Murder Rock.

9. Dick’s offers over 175,000 items. It is said that “If you can’t find it at Dicks 5 & 10 you probably don’t need it.” Dick’s is more than a store it is a unique shopping and entertainment attraction that is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

10.  That would be the Haygoods. Their extensive and successful tour of the 18 cities was conducted during January of this year.