Author Archives: O. C. Gull

From shows to golf the Branson experience is quality

Payne Stewart Golf Course's beautiful 225 yard par 3 12th Hole named the "Easy Eight.*"

(Branson, MO) “A neat thing about Branson, Missouri is not just that it has so many things to do, but the quality of what it offers. From its live shows to its attractions, lakes, shopping, lodging, restaurants and other activities, Branson is known for the quality of the experience it provides,” said Levi Kurtright, Director of Marketing for Branson Tourism Center. “A recent online article by Golfweek entitled ‘Golfweek’s Best Courses You Can Play,’ illustrates the high quality of the golfing experience available in Branson,” he continued.

The article listed Golfweeks “best courses to play” by state. The number of courses per state varied based on course supply, population and level of play, but for the entire state of Missouri only five were listed. The Branson area has three of the five; Branson Creek, Payne Stewart and Murder Rock. Branson Creek and the Payne Stewart courses have been on the list before and Murder Rock is a new listing. All three courses have been beautifully integrated into the natural topography of the Ozarks and are as beautiful as they are challenging. In addition, each has different length tee areas providing a “championship” golfing experience for just about every level of player.

The $32 million Payne Stewart Golf Club is Branson’s newest golf course and is located within the city limits of Branson on the north end of Branson in the Branson Hills Development just off of Branson Hills Parkway. The course was designed by Chuck Smith with consultation from PGA golfer Bobby Clampett as a tribute course to the late Payne Stewart. Each hole is named and has a plaque to honor his career and memory adding even more excitement and enjoyment to the golfing experience. This championship 18 hole course plays 7,324 yards from its longest tees and 5,323 yards from its shortest tees.

The picturesque and challenging championship courses of Branson Creek and Murder Rock are located just a short 10 minute drive south of Branson near the Branson Airport in the Branson Creek Development. Branson Creek plays 7,036 yards from its longest tees and 5,032 yards from its shortest tees. The Murder Rock Golf and Country Club is 6,727 yards from its longest tees and 5,627 from its shortest.

Branson Tourism Center’s Kurtright points out that in addition to the courses mentioned in the article there are other exciting golfing opportunities in Branson including two championship courses located within the city limits of Branson, the Thousand Hills Golf Course and the newly renovated Pointe Royale Golf Course. He said, “Branson has a choice of courses offering a great golfing experience and challenge for both beginners and more advanced players.”

To avoid disappointment and ensure getting a convenient tee time Kurtright suggests making advance arrangements For additional information on any of the courses mentioned in this article, tee times or tickets for any of Branson’s shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services for “one stop service” for all that is Branson. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

*Photo courtesy Payne Stewart Golf Club

Showboat Branson Belle cruises into 2011 with exciting new shows and menu

Showboat Branson Belle cruising on Table Rock Lake. *

(Branson, Missouri) “The wonder and freshness of Spring is not the only thing causing excitement in Branson, Missouri, the ‘Live music show capital of the world,”‘ said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “When the Showboat Branson Belle starts its 2011 season on March 25. plying the beautiful waters of Table Rock Lake, it will be cruising into the biggest year of change it has had in its 15 years of providing fun, excitement, entertainment, great food and ‘memories worth repeating,'” she continued.

Johnson said that information received from the Showboat indicates there will be two new shows this year along with new costumes, performers, sets, staging, lighting, décor and a new menu.

Janice Martin performing the unique aerial silk segment of her headline act while playing beautiful music. It is an amazing thing to see and it's just part of what this amazing performer does.

The show for the evening cruises will be “ENCORE!,” featuring the artistry and talent of Janice Martin, a world class violinist and vocalist as she brings her unique “high-flying theatrics to the Showboat stage.” Martin has performed in concert halls all over the world including Paris, Tokyo and Prague as well as the White House and Carnegie Hall. This writer had the opportunity to see this amazing artist perform during Silver Dollar City’s World-Fest last year and was amazed not only by her musical talents, but beauty, grace and skill involved with her aerial “silk” performance.

Also appearing in ENCORE! will be a new six man vocal and dancing group called “The Showmen” who will entertain Showboat passengers with a powerful blend of harmonies and solo performances. Returning, as the master of ceremonies, is Showboat favorite, magician and comedian, Christopher James and the Showboat’s signature live band “Rockin’ Dockers.”

Comedian and musician Chris Pendleton headlines the Showboats all new "Funny Fiddle" show.*

The Showboat Branson Belle’s daytime Comedy Cruises in mid-may will present “Funny Fiddle” featuring Chris Pendleton who is a nationally featured comedian and musician that has appeared on Fox network, Lifetime, Showtime and A& E’s “Evening at the Improv.” Appearing with Pendleton as emcee and fiddler will be Branson favorite and master at the fiddle, Dean Church.

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson said, “The Showboats new menu sounds scrumptious.” Chef Larry’s succulent entrée offerings include Royal Beef Roast and Chicken Focaccia dressed with Dijon Sauce for lunch and Braised Filet of Beef Tenderloin in a Cabernet Sauce and Mediterranean Chicken Kabobs with a touch of Dijon Sauce for dinner; salads featuring homemade Tomato Basil Croutons; Sweet Potato Mash and French Green Beans and Anna Belle’s Golden Brittle Torte drizzled with Caramel. Johnson also points out that all the meals are prepared in the ships galley and that, in addition to the Showboats regular menu there are specialty dining options available such as the “Paddlewheel Club Room” and “Captains Row.”

For tickets or additional information on the new and exciting things happening on 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. 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 Showboat Branson Belle

** Picture courtesy of www.JaniceMartin.Com

Branson Spring limited engagements offer broad entertainment choices

Gatlin Brothers

“That a little town of about 10,000 people, located in the middle of the natural beauty of the Ozarks, has the broad choice of quality entertainment that it does is one of the best kept secrets in America. Still, over 7 million people a year visit Branson to experience its live shows, attractions, lakes, shopping and natural beauty,” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. ” In season, it’s regular show schedule offers close to 100 live show performances a day encompassing a variety of live entertainment that would be the envy of any tourist entertainment destination let alone one the size of Branson,” she continued.

Johnson suggests that just the list of stars and acts that will be making limited engagements appearances in Branson during the Spring season gives a capsule overview of the breadth of Branson’s entertainment. The following list, current as of February 27, 2011 shows the major limited engagement acts scheduled for this Spring in Branson including a link for each providing a show description, schedule and ticket prices on each. The list is sorted alphabetically by date:

Neal McCoy, March 12 – 19*
Oak Ridge Boys, April 26*
Charlie Daniel’s Band, April 28
Sawyer Brown, April 29
70s Super Show with the Village People, May 5
Gene Watson and John Conlee May 14
Neal McCoy, May 19*
Neal McCoy, June 1 – 2*
Exile, June 16-17
Jungle Jack Hanna, June 19
Branson Gospel Music Revival, June 19 – Jul 1

Jungle Jim Hanna with one of his animal friends.

*Indicates performers who will also be appearing for limited engagement performances at difference times during 2011.

Johnson points out that the limited engagement shows are in addition to all the rest of the Branson Shows that perform regularly all season long. She said schedules could change and suggests, before making any plans to see a particular show, that you consult a show schedule similar to the Branson Tourism Center Show Schedule which is updated with current information daily. She said another convenient way to keep updated on the latest shows, schedules and Branson information is to make a free telephone call to a trained Branson Vacation Planning Specialist who will answer your questions free of charge and can be reached by calling 1-800-785-1550.

A son and grandson honor the 100th birthday of the “King of the Cowboys,” Roy Rogers

Roy Rogers, Trigger and Dale Evans*

When Franklin Slye* was born on November 5, 1911, no one had any idea that he would one day become Roy Rogers, the “King of the Cowboys,” and the positive effect he would have on the lives of so many people, but that’s exactly what happened. Over the course of 100 movies, 15 years of the Roy Rogers show on radio and television and countless personal appearances , along with his wife, Dale Evans, the “Queen of the West,” and “Trigger”, the iconic golden palomino, he was a pillar of strength, honesty, fairness, courage and decency that impacted on the lives of countless people.

Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center said, “We have just received information that in celebration and tribute of the 100th Anniversary of the birth of Roy Rogers, his son, Dusty Rogers, ‘Roy Rogers, Jr.’ and grandson, Dustin Rogers who, along with the High Riders, perform the Roy Rogers Jr. Show in Branson, Missouri, have dedicated the entire 2011 season as a tribute to Roy Rogers and what he stood for. She went on to say, “The spirit of what Roy Rogers and Branson represent are kindred and an inherent part of what makes America great.”

During an interview on February 18, 2011, Dustin Rogers said, “We want to celebrate his life and the positive way he touched people’s hearts.” The Roy Rogers Jr. show features a variety of music “including classic cowboy Western, bluegrass, country, and songs of faith.” Dustin points out that in addition, as part of the 100th anniversary tribute they will be adding some of Roy’s favorite songs that they have not previously had in the show. One of the numbers he will be singing is “Night Guard,” one his granddad’s favorite songs which includes a nifty bit of yodeling. He said that his dad, Dusty, will be doing another or Roy’s favorites, “Little Joe the Wrangler.”

Dustin said he is looking forward to performing an interactive number during which he will sing “Pecos Bill” while the actual video is being played in the background. It was one of the segments in the 1948 Walt Disney animated feature “Melody Time,” in which Roy Rogers, along with the “Sons of the Pioneers” narrated and sang the story of “Pecos Bill,” a love story that answers the age old question, “Why do coyotes howl at the moon?”

He said that the tribute will be part of the Roy Rogers Jr. Show at the Mickey Gilley Theatre during the entire 2011 season. On November 5, the actual 100th birthday of Roy Rogers, the show will be actually be performed in Apple Valley, California where Roy and Dale Rogers made their home and where they are buried.

* Franklin Slye legally changed his name to “Roy Rogers” in 1942

*Photo courtesey of www.RoyRogers.com

Escape to Branson for Spring Break excitement and adventure

The exciting and spectacular view of the natural beauty of the Ozarks from "Wildfire," Silver Dollar city's world class coaster.

Within a few short weeks, the signs of another Spring in Branson will begin to manifest itself. The first blush of Spring offers the opportunity to escape from the inside confines of winter to the freedom of the outdoors and the promise of the fun, recreation and excitement that lies just ahead. Spring in Branson, Missouri, especially during Spring Break, is a great way to start the fulfillment of that promise.

The natural beauty of Spring in the Ozarks will start blossoming forth during Spring Break as the Dogwood and Redbud trees bloom and the excitement and adventure of Branson’s 2011 season bursts forth. The opening of Silver Dollar City along with more of its live shows, outdoor attractions and other activities provide a great reason to escape to Branson to share and enjoy the excitement, fun and adventure of Spring.

Even as the snow is flying there are thoughts of “Spring Break” and the fun it will be. In fact, many of those within a day’s drive of Branson are probably wondering if Spring Break will be shortened to make up for the “snow days” that have been taken. One of the neat things about Branson is that all its fun, excitement, entertainment and natural beauty are just a short drive away for so many, making it an ideal family Spring Break escape to something that is fresh, exciting and different, whether it’s for a day or two, a week or more.

The majority of Branson’s major attractions such as the Titanic Museum, Hollywood Wax Museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum, Veterans Memorial Museum, Dinosaur Museum and many others are open year round. Spring brings the excitement of the reopening of many of Branson’s other exciting attractions such as the Branson Scenic Railway, Branson Landing Cruises, Ride the Ducks, Branson’s many outdoor mini golf courses such as “Shoot for the Stars Mini Golf” and of course, its biggest and most popular attraction, Silver Dollar City.

Silver Dollar City, an internationally recognized 1880’s theme park, will open its 51st season in conjunction with the celebration of Spring Break. It is built to blend in with the beauty of the Ozark Hills that surround it and is one of the most unique theme parks in the world.

Silver Dollar City has over 30 rides including its high-flying multi-looping world class roller coaster “WildFire” reaching speeds of up to 66 miles per hour; some of the best live shows in Branson; demonstrating craftsmen working at crafts that have been passed down from generation to generation; unique shopping and food and a series of six world class festivals starting with World-Fest, the country’s largest international festival, running from April 7 through May 8.

Branson’s fantastic line-up of live shows will be bursting out with their new shows for 2011 during the Spring Break offering a variety of live entertainment that is unrivaled in any destination city of its size anywhere. Shows as varied as the Acrobats of China, The Baldknobbers Jamboree, Presleys’ Country Jubilee, Haygoods, Hughes Brothers, George Dyer, Grand Country, Comedy Jubilee, Shoji Tabuchi, Pierce Arrow, Jim Stafford, Doug Gabriel, Legends in Concert and Amazing Pets, to mention just a few, will provide a “live show escape” for just about everyone.

The show scene in Branson during Spring Break gets even more exciting when some of the limited engagement performances are considered. Stars like Neal McCoy, the Oakridge Boys, Charlie Daniel’s Band and Sawyer Brown just add to the variety of exciting entertainment choices available in Branson during the Spring Break.

Not only does Branson provide an escape to great shows, attractions and entertainment, but to a great shopping experience as well. Its three factory discount malls, countless specialty shops in historic downtown Branson and throughout Branson and Branson Landing, with its lakeside location, fire and water show, restaurants, Bass Pro Shop and 100 other retail shops, provide a unique and unparalleled shopping opportunity.

Branson’s world class golf courses will be open for your Spring Break enjoyment. Courses including the Payne Stewart Golf Course at Branson Hills, Thousand Hills, Pointe Royale and Branson Creek, among others, will provide a golfing challenge for the beginner as well as the seasoned champion tournament player.

Spring in Branson provides an excellent opportunity to experience the natural wonder and beauty of the Ozarks. Whether its fishing for largemouth bass or crappie on Table Rock Lake or Rainbow Trout on Lake Taneycomo; a dinner cruise on the Show Boat Branson Belle; a tour of the Shepherd of the Hills Trout Hatchery or just a walk or hike on one of Branson’s many accessible trails or walk ways such as the Branson Landing Boardwalk, you will be surrounded and amazed by the natural wonder of an Ozark’s Spring in Branson.

“If you are like most people your first Spring Break escape to Branson will more than likely lead you to come back to that special place visitors call ‘Branson’ and we call ‘home,'” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center, Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning service.

Limited engagements add even more Branson show choices

"The Village People," just one of the limited engagements adding to the variety and excitement of Branson show choices.*

“Branson. Missouri is referred to by some as the ‘Live music show capital of the world’ because of the variety and quality of the shows it offers on a regular basis,” said Mark Bryson, the Director of Operations for Branson on the Web, a subsidiary of Branson Tourism Center. “That alone provides Branson visitors with a  choice of live entertainment that is unrivaled by its competition and made even more so with the addition of limited engagement performances.”

Bryson notes that, as he uses the term, “limited engagements” are special performances or shows that are available only during specific time periods and do not perform in Branson on a regularly scheduled basis for the majority of the season. The following is a list of limited engagement performances taken from the Branson Tourism Center Show schedule and is sorted by the date of the first performance:

Neal McCoy, March 12 through 19
Oak Ridge Boys, April 26 & 27
Charlie Daniel’s Band, April 28
Sawyer Brown, April 29 only
70s Super Show with the Village People, May 13
Gene Watson and John Conlee, May 14
Neal McCoy, May 19
Branson Gospel Music Revival, June 28 through July 1
Neal McCoy, June 1 & 2
Neal McCoy, July 1
Neal McCoy, July 5
Neal McCoy, July 25 & 26
Neal McCoy, August 3
Diane Bish, August 8 through 19
Andy Williams with Ann-Margret, September 12 through October 22
Diane Bish, September 9 through 23
Neal McCoy, September 15 & 16
Gatlin Brothers, September 20 through 22
Oak Ridge Boys, September 20 through 22
Oak Ridge Boys, October 4 through 20
Aaron Tippin, Joe Diffie and Sammy Kershaw, October 15
Gatlin Brothers, October 4 through 20
Neal McCoy, October 6 through December 9
Tim Conway and Friends, October 21 & 22
Andy Williams  Christmas Show, November 1 through December 10
Daniel O’Donnell, November 1 through 23
Gatlin Brothers & Debby Boone Together, November 1 through December 7
Hollywood Christmas Spectacular, November 1 through December 10
Mel Tillis and Family Christmas November 1 through November 17
Miracle of Christmas, November 1 through December 31
Oak Ridge Boys, November 1 through 17
Tony Orlando Christmas, November 1 through December 9
Diane Bish, November 5 through December 7
Johnny Mathis Christmas Show, November 18 & 19

Bryson points out that the list includes some performers more than once because they perform for limited periods on more than one occasion and some that perform only during certain periods of the year such as Andy Williams, Daniel O’Donnell and the Christmas Shows. He advises that the list will change and suggests three ways to have the most current information on not only limited engagement performances, but Branson shows in general.

The first two involve checking the show schedules on either the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) or Branson On The Web. In the majority of cases limited engagement performances are indicated by a “clock symbol” to the right of the entry on Branson Tourism Center. Using the “Limited Engagements” filter on Branson On The Web will show the limited engagement performances. Bryson said that another excellent way to get information on limited engagement performances, all Branson shows, attractions or lodging is by using the free personal assistance of a Branson Tourism Center Vacation Planner which is available by calling BTC at their toll free number 1-800-785-1550.

* Photo courtesy of www.OfficialVillagePeople.com.

Direct nonstop air service to Branson from Dallas and Austin announced

The Dornier 328 Aircraft.*

“The recent announcement by Branson AirExpress (BAE) that they will be providing nonstop air service from Love Field in Dallas, TX to the Branson Airport provides yet another way for visitors to conveniently get to Branson,” said Sharon Budnick, the director of the Branson Travel Agency, a division of Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. She also pointed out that it was also announced there would be a resumption of direct nonstop air service between Branson and Bergstrom International Airport in Austin, TX.

In making the announcement about the new service from Dallas and the resumption of the Austin flights Jeff Bourk, executive director of the Branson Airport said, “We are pleased to kick off the 2011 Branson AirExpress season with continued low fares to these fantastic nonstop destinations.” Bourk also indicated that the response to the Branson AirExpress flights during the 2010 season had been strong and that additional scheduling would be announced to Austin and Dallas in the coming weeks.

Currently, the published schedule is for one morning flight from each destination on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Bourk said that the flights will be operated for Branson AirExpress by Vision Airline on 30 passenger Dornier 328 Aircraft, “one of the most comfortable and modern turbo-prop aircraft in the world.”

Branson Travel Agency’s Budnick said, ” Branson Airport’s service on Frontier, AirTran and Branson AirExpress, coupled with the air service into the Springfield – Branson National Airport on air carriers such as American, United, Delta and Allegiant, provide a wider variety of fare and scheduling options for Branson air travelers than ever before.” She said that she would be pleased to provide more information or tickets on air travel to Branson or any of Branson’s shows and attractions or lodging arrangements. Please contact her at the Branson Travel Agency either by calling 800-785-2176 or through their website www.BransonTravelAgency.com.

*Picture courtesy of Fairchild-Dornier.Com

Branson’s Grand Country Music Hall provides a grand variety of entertainment

Grand Jubilee's" New South", Jason,left, Trey, Jason and Mark.

“The ‘Grand Country Music Hall,’ stands out, even in Branson, Missouri, the ‘Live music show capital of the world,'” said Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “It offers a variety of entertaining, exciting and funny shows on a regular basis that is not available anywhere else in Branson.”

Mike Patrick, the General Manager of the Grand Country Music Hall (Grand Country), producer, and a cast member in two of its shows said, “We offer eight different shows on a regularly scheduled basis providing fun and enjoyment that covers the complete entertainment spectrum. We have it all from animal acts to gospel, country and just about any music genre a person could want along with some of the best comedy on the planet.”

Patrick, with the assistance of associate producer Andy Holloway, the cast and musicians in the shows, produces and directs all of the shows. Patrick explained that he has been involved with just about every aspect of the Branson entertainment industry since 1990 and is still performing in two of the shows being performed at Grand Country, the Grand Jubilee and tBranson Country USA. When asked what he believes makes a great show he said, “One that the audience relates to and enjoys. I just love it when I see our audiences laughing, interacting with the cast and having a great time. That’s what it’s all about.”

Grand Jubilee is an evening musical comedy variety show featuring the vocals of “New South,” a male quartet consisting of lead vocalist, Trey Wilson, tenor Jason Robinson, baritone Jason Pritchett and bass Mark McCauley. New South is one of the most talented singing groups in Branson and is noted for their tight harmonies, power and vocal range, singing everything from the Eagles and Beatles to gospel, country and pop. New South provides the main vocal thrust in three of Grand Country’s shows the Grand Jubilee, New South Gospel and Branson Country USA. Jackie Brown is featured the female vocalist and Todd Bradshaw the male vocalist. The comedy is provided by one of Branson’s funniest comedians, the multitalented Jamie Haage as “Jim Dandy” with Patrick as the straight man and the show’s emcee.

The cast of the hillariously funny Comedy Jubilee.

The Comedy Jamboree is an afternoon musical variety featuring the vocals of the “Jamboree Singers,” Jackie Brown, GiGi Hutchison, Jon Drockelman, Justin Tews with featured male vocalist and emcee Todd Bradshaw. The comedy is provided by comedians Shannon Thomason as “Apple Jack” and Jeff Jenkins as “Guppy McGee.” This show has it all, hilarious, clean comedy, floor-pounding clogging and dancing and all your country favorites.

Patrick points out that the basic musical comedy format is the same for both the Grand Jubilee and Comedy Jubilee. He adds that there is plenty of side splitting comedy for everyone in both show, but there is more emphasis on comedy in the Comedy Jubilee show.

Down Home Country is a traditional classic country music show that will take you back in time to enjoy the classics of George Jones, Hank Williams, Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings and many more. The host and featured vocalist is Bob Davison with the female vocals provided by Melody Hart who also plays the fiddle. Patrick points out that although fiddle players Wayne Massengale and Melody Hart are married and have been playing in Branson for years this will be the first time they have performed in a show together.

New South Gospel is offered only on Thursday afternoons and features New South and female vocalist Jackie Brown. The show was developed in response to audience requests for New South to do more gospel music and provides a wide range of gospel music “from the early roots of southern gospel to the hand-clapping gospel hits of today and from the Jordanaires to Bill Gaither.”

Amazing Pets is a morning show that is completely different from any other show, not only at Grand Country, but in Branson. It features Valery Tsoraev, Olga Demicheva and Anna Savvina with an amazing troupe of trained dogs and cats performing amazing feats that amazes young and old as well as the birds of Alena Oulianova and the mule and turtles of Tony King. Add a lot of audience participation from kids in the audience and the comedy and hosting of Chris Stanley and the result is a unique entertainment experience that will be enjoyed by “kids” of all ages.

Sunday Gospel Jubilee is offered only on Sunday afternoon and is the continuation of a two decade Sunday gospel tradition featuring the Bacon Family performing your gospel favorites as only they and their familial harmonies can. It also features Randy Plummer, bass guitar and vocals; Lance Taylor, Piano and vocals, Eric Michel, drums; Michael Davis, lead guitar and George Geiser, steel guitar.

Ozark Jubilee is offered only on Sunday evening and “celebrates the country classics of yesteryear combined with today’s hot, country hits. The show is presented by the Bacon Family and the same cast that presents the Sunday Gospel Jubilee.

Branson Country USA is a 10:30 p.m. show offered only on Friday co-hosted by Jamie Haage, as Jim Dandy, and Patrick. The show features the vocals of New South and Jackie Brown, the Grand Band and has a rotating roster of Branson talent consisting of stars such as Mickey Gilley and the  up-and-coming stars of tomorrow.

Patrick points out that it takes talented musicians to support the variety of shows and music performed at Grand Country and proclaimed that the musicians of the “Grand Band” are second to none. The band consists of Michael W. Davis and Tracy Heaston, piano and keyboard; Wayne Massengale, fiddle and acoustic guitar; Larry Allred, bass guitar; Rob Blackburn, drums; Matt Hanshaw, lead and acoustic guitar and Danny Yancey, steel and acoustic guitar and banjo.

Branson shows are an amazing Valentine!

Dramatic lighting is just part of the excitment of the Haygoods show.

“The selection and variety of live Branson shows available over the Valentine Day Weekend provides a unique, entertaining and romantic way to celebrate Valentine’s Day” says Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “From music of every genera, comedy, magic, variety to ‘Elvis’ and the world’s only ‘Mufftar’, there is a Branson show for every Valentine.”

A sample of some of Branson’s Valentine’s Day Weekend shows would include:

Amazing Pets – Great Valentine for all ages, but “little Valentines” will really love this combination of performing dogs, cats and birds with a healthy dose of comedy.

Baldknobbers Jamboree – Special Valentine’s weekend performances by the show that started it all.

Comedy Jamboree – Great musical variety show featuring the vocals of Splinter Middleton and the comedy of Branson funny man, Jae McFerron.

Doug Gabriel – A great vocal talent. His performance of “Malaguena” on the acoustical guitar is amazing and where else can you actually hear a “Mufftar” played?

Grand Jubilee – One of Branson’s premier musical and comedy variety show featuring the superb vocals of “New South,” the hilarious comedy of Jamie Haage, as Jim Dandy and Emcee extraordinaire, Mike Patrick.

Hamner Barber Variety Show – It is one of the most unusual and entertaining variety shows you will ever see featuring the magic and spectacular illusions of David Hamner and the comedy and ventriloquism of Jim Barber.

Haygoods – The Haygoods are known for their incredibly tight harmonies, innovative, energetic choreography and amazing performances on over 20 different instruments! Valentine’s weekend will their first Branson performances since doing an extensive tour in China during January.

Hughes Brothers – These five brothers are noted for their rich harmonies, great choreography, and high energy performances. When that talent is integrated with the talents of other members of the world’s largest performing family the result is an exciting and moving entertainment experience.

Jim Stafford – This comedic-genius and entertainer extraordinaire presides over a show full of entertaining surprises ranging from comedy, delivered in a manner that only he can, to music, “spiders and snakes,” a cow stampede, saving a Chihuahua and who knows what else.

Legends in Concert – Celebrate Valentine’s Day with this world famous live tribute show featuring an amazing cast of all star impersonators. Currently appearing are Buddy Holly, Aretha Franklin, Toby Keith, The Blues Brothers and Elvis, played by Tony Z.

Ozark Mountain Jubilee – Featuring the Max Bacon Family, this show celebrates the country classics of yesteryear combined with today’s hot, country hits and wholesome comedy.

Pierce Arrow – Featuring the vocals of the group “Pierce Arrow,” Desta and Kim Boyce and the world’s lowest bass singer along with the hilarious comedy of Jarrett Dougherty this is one of Branson’s hottest shows.

“Shows are just one of the many choices that are available to help celebrate a romantic Valentine’s Day in Branson,” said Johnson. “From renewing your wedding vows on the magnificent ‘Grand Staircase’ of Branson’s Titanic Museum, to lodging accommodations for every taste and budget, restaurants, shopping and attractions, Branson offers endless ways to celebrate a memorable and romantic Valentine’s Day.” She offers the free services of a Branson Tourism Center Vacation Planner to help plan your perfect Branson Valentine’s Day experience by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Shepherd of the Hills Hatchery hatches family fun as well as trout

Entrance to Shepherd of the Hills Conservation Center with the top of Table Rock Dam in the background.

Old man Winter has given Branson one of those great weekends reminding us that, although winter is not gone, spring, and all the wonderful outdoor activities that follow is just around the corner. “It’s hard to believe,” began Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center. “It’s January 29 and the temperature is 70 plus degrees, sunshine and azure blue skies. What a wonderful day to be outdoors.”

“The ‘Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery’ is an excellent place for families to experience the Ozark outdoors and much more,” Johnson added. “Although it is Missouri’s largest trout hatchery and produces over 1.2 million Rainbow and Brown Trout annually, it is filled with interesting things that families can share together, both indoors and outdoors.”

The portal to all the hatchery offers is its Conservation Center located near the foot of Table Rock Dam. It is operated by the Missouri Department of Conservation, free and open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with expanded hours from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The Center itself has nature related exhibits which change seasonally, trout rearing and spawning exhibits, a 60 seat auditorium featuring the multimedia presentation “Ozark Trout” and a large glassed-in aquarium that permits an interesting look at large Rainbow and Brown Trout. It is designed so that the trout and those viewing them are looking at each other “eye ball to eye ball.”

You can exit the Center and take a self guided tour of the hatchery “race ways” seeing hundreds of thousands of trout from lunker brooders to those just a few inches in length that have just come from inside the hatchery. Trout food is available from quarter vending machines for those who want to feed the trout. Between Memorial and Labor Day guided tours of the hatchery are conducted on weekdays departing the Center’s lobby at 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m.

The hatchery’s four hiking trails are also easily accessed from the Center. Each provides a convenient, level and accessible way to view the plants, trees, animals, birds and natural beauty of the Ozarks. This writers personal favorite is the four tenths of a mile long, “White River Corridor Trail” because it parallels Lake Taneycomo for almost its entire length. Maps of the trails and current trail conditions are available from the attendant in the Centers Lobby.

Branson Tourism Center’s Johnson notes that the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery is just one of Branson’s many attractions and ways that families can have fun together every day of the year.