May
20

BRANSON, Mo., May 19 – The Army Corps of Engineers will conduct a boating use study on Table Rock Lake between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends to gather information about recreational boating and the perceptions and preferences of boaters.  Corps officials urge boaters to participate in surveys when asked so the agency can better serve the boating public in the future.

Boaters will be surveyed by contractors working for the Corps.  The surveys will primarily be exit interviews of boaters at randomly selected public launching facilities around Table Rock Lake.  Also, the survey questionnaire will be mailed to a randomly selected sample population of adjacent landowners, marina customers and private boat slip owners on the lake.

Using scientific methods, the study will examine not only boater preferences but also how the natural and social environments, as well as Corps management practices, influence boaters in the areas of the lake they frequent.

The survey will include questions about place of origin, travel time and cost, frequency of visits, length of stay, and other activities enjoyed.  There will be questions about the types and sizes of boats used, as well as the use of ramps, docks, or existing or prospective marina facilities.  It will include questions about recreational experiences and perceptions including crowding, congestion, boat docks, shoreline erosion, noise, lake usage, aesthetics, water quality, no wake zones, use patterns, competing uses (fishing vs. water-skiing, etc.), crime, boat speed and other issues.

Boat counts will be taken on the lake to detect congested areas.  The times and dates of the counts will be determined by a scientific random sampling method.  Lake surface zones will be used to describe where congestion is the most prevalent.

The survey will help determine how development, competing uses and other issues can affect the safety and enjoyment of visitors and residents.  This information will assist lake managers in preparing for an Environmental Impact Study prior to updating the Shoreline Management Plan for Table Rock Lake if funding becomes available.  The EIS is a required step in the update.  The data will also be valuable in updating the Table Rock Lake Master Plan.

Disclaimer: BroadcastBranson.com is a service for the distribution of press releases, news and events. BroadcastBranson.com does not verify the validity or accuracy of the contents of the news that it distributes. Users are responsible for the contents of the press releases they submit to BroadcastBranson.com and the distribution via our service does not imply endorsement. BroadcastBranson.com takes no responsibility and holds no liabilities for information distributed.

May
19

Baldknobbers 50th Anniversary
Four generations of visitors to Branson, Missouri, have enjoyed great country music and hillbilly humor at The Baldknobbers Jamboree. This legendary original Branson show is celebrating its 50th Anniversary in the Ozarks town that has become known as the Live Music Capital of the World.

There are families who have been traveling to Branson to see the Baldknobbers for generations. Multiple generations are represented on stage as well as in the audience. Second-generation entertainers Tim and Brent Mabe recalled a recent guest who told them, “My grandmother used to bring me to see your show. Now I bring my family.”

Brent goes on to say, “People tell us all the time they remember Tim and me and all the cousins playing baseball in the parking lot with a crushed-up soda cup, while our dads were on stage in the theatre.

Tim Mabe adds, “And I remember we could earn a dollar for putting bumper stickers on cars.”

In a time when families often live many miles or several states apart, traditions take on even more importance. The Baldknobbers Jamboree is an experience families can share, whether traveling together to Branson or reuniting there with family.

One of the many reasons the Baldknobbers Jamboree has remained so successful and will continue to entertain future generations is the universal appeal of country music and hillbilly humor. Stories that everyone can relate to, whether told in song or with comedy, are timeless. Themes of love and happiness, troubles and sadness, and everyday life situations can be poignant in a song or funny in a comic’s tale.

The sad song brings a tear to a grandmother’s eye, while a comedian in outlandish, oversized overalls has a grandson laughing out loud. The Baldknobbers show is a fast-paced, energetic production starring 19 talented musicians, singers and comedians, some of the best and funniest on stage anywhere. Just one more reason for the Baldknobbers’ continued popularity!

It was 1959 when four Mabe brothers began entertaining visitors to Branson. They put on a music and comedy show in the evenings for an audience made up mostly of fishermen and their families. They had fifty folding chairs and the Mabe wives sold tickets. If they sold twelve tickets, there would be a show.

In 1959 the theater was on the Taneycomo lakefront; today the theater seats 1500 people and is a state-of-the-art facility on Highway 76, “The Strip.” Visitors to Branson still enjoy the Baldknobbers and fishing, as well as other shows and attractions, world-class hotels and resorts, more lake activities, 12 championship golf courses, shopping and much more.

Things have changed in 50 years, but in 2009, as the Baldknobbers Jamboree celebrates its 50th Anniversary, many things remain the same. The show continues to deliver excellent family entertainment to enthusiastic audiences. Come celebrate with the Baldknobbers Jamboree, the “show that started it all!”

Join the Mabe family and the entire cast of the Baldknobbers for the year-long 50th Anniversary celebration in 2009. The Baldknobbers Jamboree Show-“The Show That Started It All”-is located on the famed 76 Country Music Boulevard in Branson, Missouri, with performances Monday through Saturday at 8 PM. For tickets call 800-998-8908 or www.Baldknobbers.com

Disclaimer: BroadcastBranson.com is a service for the distribution of press releases, news and events. BroadcastBranson.com does not verify the validity or accuracy of the contents of the news that it distributes. Users are responsible for the contents of the press releases they submit to BroadcastBranson.com and the distribution via our service does not imply endorsement. BroadcastBranson.com takes no responsibility and holds no liabilities for information distributed.

May
19
Linda Ward
prpro@suddenlink.net
Branson Wedding Association
417-334-3013
3000 Green Mountain Dr., PMB 187
Branson, MO   65616

A second introduction meeting of the Branson Wedding Association has been set for Friday, May 22, at 10 a.m. at Lodge of the Ozarks, 3431 W. Hwy. 76, in Club Vegas.

“We had a great turn out at the launch with more than 40 in attendance. Branson Mayor Rae Anne Presley showed her support of the new association and opened the meeting. Because of the strong support, we have been asked to hold a second meeting for those who were unable to attend the charter launch. All are invited to attend our second meeting, but no solicitation materials will be allowed at this time,” said Baltajy Smith, who, along with her husband, Dr. Dale Smith, has founded the new organization.

Individuals and businesses interested in making Branson a more nationally recognized destination for weddings, honeymoons and anniversaries and providers of those services throughout the Ozarks are invited to learn more about the group, its goals and how to be involved. Information will be provided on how wedding related businesses working together can build Branson into an even bigger and better wedding and honeymoon destination.

Branson Wedding Association is a spin-off from meetings of the group sales and public relations departments of the Branson Chamber of Commerce.

Branson Wedding Association/Ozark Wedding Association’s website, bransonweddingassociation.com, explains the goals and membership guidelines and has ‘information to help make your romantic occasion an event to remember, no matter what your budget or style.”

“Those who represent facilities and other places where ceremonies and receptions can be held; vendors such as professional planners, florists, photographers, caterers, formal shops, musicians and transportation companies; lodging; vacation packages; recreation including shows, attractions, restaurants and special events are needed to make this association successful,” Kathy Baltajy Smith said.

For more information call 417-334-3013.

Disclaimer: BroadcastBranson.com is a service for the distribution of press releases, news and events. BroadcastBranson.com does not verify the validity or accuracy of the contents of the news that it distributes. Users are responsible for the contents of the press releases they submit to BroadcastBranson.com and the distribution via our service does not imply endorsement. BroadcastBranson.com takes no responsibility and holds no liabilities for information distributed.

May
19

Thousands show for Plumb Nellie Days

Posted In: City News by BroadcastBranson.com


Thousands of people hit downtown Branson for the 36th annual Plumb Nellie Days.

The weather was perfect for the final day of the arts and crafts festival

Crafters from around the Midwest join in this Ozarks heritage event that celebrates the tradition of hand-crafted products.

“We have pottery, basket weaving, old-time ice cream and free entertainment,” Paula Gillispie with the Downtown Branson Main Street Association said. “So everyone comes out and enjoys the day.”

Over the three day event, organizers say some 8,000 people enjoyed the craft show.

Article Source

Disclaimer: BroadcastBranson.com is a service for the distribution of press releases, news and events. BroadcastBranson.com does not verify the validity or accuracy of the contents of the news that it distributes. Users are responsible for the contents of the press releases they submit to BroadcastBranson.com and the distribution via our service does not imply endorsement. BroadcastBranson.com takes no responsibility and holds no liabilities for information distributed.

May
19

Want to become an audience member for the live taping of NBC’s newest reality series? Now you can, right here in Branson!

NBC is inviting you to the Welk Resort Theatre in Branson, Missouri, to participate in a primetime television event of a lifetime on Saturday, May 23rd. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. and the show tapes at 3:30 p.m. sharp.

Come join Reno Collier, along with a slew of famous celebrity faces, in a jam-packed showcase of awe-inspiring talent. Admission is free and all ages are welcome to attend.

Article Source

Disclaimer: BroadcastBranson.com is a service for the distribution of press releases, news and events. BroadcastBranson.com does not verify the validity or accuracy of the contents of the news that it distributes. Users are responsible for the contents of the press releases they submit to BroadcastBranson.com and the distribution via our service does not imply endorsement. BroadcastBranson.com takes no responsibility and holds no liabilities for information distributed.

May
18
Dawn Black
dawn@myerhotels.com
Myer Hotels
3601A Shepherd of the Hills Expwy
Branson, MO   65616

Branson, MO— Mr. Gail Myer, Vice President of Operations for Myer Hotels and governor for Best Western International, has been honored with the hotel chain’s All Star Governor’s Award. The award recognizes overall participation within the brand and involvement with the local hospitably industry. The award was presented at Best Western International’s annual Governor’s Conference recently held in New Orleans, La, in front of more than 200 industry peers.

The award winners, chosen by Best Western International’s board of directors, recognized a total of 14 out of 195 Best Western Governors. A Governor is a selected owner/operator that serves on a committee to help build the brand. Current Governors are required to meet specific criteria and responsibilities and are to act as liaisons between Best Western’s board of directors and Best Western owners/operators within the geographic regions covered by the respective appointments.

“We are very pleased with Gail Myer’s commitment to the brand, and his recent recognition for the All Star Governor’s Award,” said Bonnie McPeake, chairwoman of Best Western’s Board of Directors. “His strong leadership skills and dedication to his hotel and community is an asset to our brand. We are proud of his achievements.”

Myer has been active in the hospitality industry since the early 1980’s. He is currently, on the Executive Marketing Committee for Best Western International, past Vice Chairman of the E-commerce Committee for Best Western, Board Member of the Missouri Hotel and Lodging Association, past President of the Missouri Travel Council, Board Member of the Branson/Lakes Area Lodging Association, and Member of the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce.

ABOUT MYER HOTELS
In the lodging business for 40 years, the Myer family has actively contributed to Branson’s hospitality market for over 25 years and received numerous national awards. Myer Hotels includes the Best Western Center Pointe Inn, Best Western Music Capital Inn, Comfort Inn at Thousand Hills, Comfort Inn & Suites Branson Meadows and Comfort Inn West. The properties emphasize excellent locations, countless amenities and exceptional customer service while focusing on great value in the upper mid-scale area. For more information about these hotels please visit www.myerhotels.com.

Disclaimer: BroadcastBranson.com is a service for the distribution of press releases, news and events. BroadcastBranson.com does not verify the validity or accuracy of the contents of the news that it distributes. Users are responsible for the contents of the press releases they submit to BroadcastBranson.com and the distribution via our service does not imply endorsement. BroadcastBranson.com takes no responsibility and holds no liabilities for information distributed.

May
18

The New Best of Gene Williams Country Music TV Show returns with The “Cajun” Wade Benson Landry on this week’s telecast of the weekly television show based in Branson, Mo., and seen across the country.

Gene Williams, the star and creator of the Telly Award-winning show that was taped live at the 50’s at the Hop Theatre at the Shoppes at Branson Meadows, said, “Wade is the ultimate entertainer and one of the best. He has performed with some of Country music’s giants, such as Jimmy C. Newman, Loretta Lynn, The Oak Ridge Boys, Dolly Parton, Porter Wagoner, George Jones and Tammy Wynette and Mel Tillis and appeared regularly on television shows such as PBS Live from the Grand Ole Opry, the 1980 CMA Awards Show, the Anheuser-Busch Special Reach for the Stars with Bob Hope, NBC’s Tonight Show, Nashville Now and the Academy of Country Music Awards Show. In Branson he is the headliner for the only Cajun Swing show.”

The TV show with Landry will be telecast May 23 and 24. (EDITOR’S CHECK LISTINGS BELOW). For more information go to the website genewilliamscountry.com.
Williams was recently released from the hospital and has been taking a break from the hectic schedule he has had for eight years in Branson. A hiatus from regular taping has been recommended. He and Katie Lynn recently returned to the studio to tape updates for The New Best of the Gene Williams Country Music TV Show that will include a weekly guitar giveaway courtesy of All Star Music of Jonesboro and Batesville, Ark., and Poplar Bluff, Mo.

The show is aired in Springfield, Branson, Little Rock, Jonesboro, Ark., Nashville, St. Louis, Decatur, Ill., Ada and Ardmore, Okla., Sherman/Denison, Texas, plus on all the stations of the Retro Television Network including 11 of the top 30 markets in the nation.

Show Telecast Schedule – Location Call Letters Network Day Time

Ada, OK KTEN NBC Sunday 11 p.m. CT
Albany, NY WTEN RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m ET
Alexandria, LA KWCE RTN Sunday 6:30 a.m. CT
Altoona, PA WJAC RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
Ames, IA WOI RTN Sunday 5 p.m. CT
Appleton, WI WBAY RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. CT
Atlanta, GA WSB RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. ET
Augusta, GA WJBF RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
Austin, TX KEYE RTN Sunday 1:30 a.m CT
Baton Rouge, LA KZUP RTN Sunday 6:30 a.m. CT
Bellevue, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
Bettendorf, IA WHBF RTN Sunday 5 p.m. CT
Branson, MO KCZ CW Sat., Sun. 6:30 a.m. CT
Branson, MO KWBM MY Sunday 10:30 p.m. CT
Bremerton, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
Bristol County, MA WJAR RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
Bristol, TN WKPT RTN Sunday 5 p.m. ET
Bristol, VA WKPT RTN Sunday 5 p.m. ET
Brownsville, TX KRGV RTN Sunday 6:30 a.m. CT
Bullhead City, AZ KAZT RTN Sunday 8:30 a.m. MT
Carrborro WRAZ RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
Cary, NC WRAZ RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
Casa Grande, AZ KAZT RTN Sunday 8:30 a.m. MT
Cashmere, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
Cedar Rapids, IA KWWL RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. CT
Central FL WRDQ RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m ET
Centralia, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
Chapel Hill, NC WRAZ RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
Chattanooga, TN WRCB RTN Saturday 10 a.m ET
Clayton, NC WRAZ RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
Coshocton, PA WTOV RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
Davenport, IA WHBF RTN Sunday 5 p.m. CT
Decatur, IL WPXS Ind. Sunday 9:30 p.m. CT
Dennison, TX KTEN NBC Sunday 11 p.m. CT
Des Moines, IA WOI RTN Sunday 5 p.m. CT
Detroit, MI WXYZ RTN Sunday 5:30 a.m. ET
Dubuque, IA KWWL RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. CT
Durham, NC WRAZ RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
Edmonds, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
El Paso, TX KFOX RTN Sunday 6:30 a.m. CT
Essex Co., Ontario WNWO RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
Evansville, IN WEHT RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. CT
Everett, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
Fayetteville, AR KFDF THIS Sunday 9:30 a.m. CT
Fayetteville, NC WRAZ RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
Flagstaff, AZ KAZT RTN Sunday 8:30 a.m. MT
Fox Cities, WI WBAY RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. CT
Fresno, CA KAIL RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. PT
Garner, NC WRAZ RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
Green Bay, WI WBAY RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. CT
Greensburg, PA WTOV RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
Harrisburg, IL WPXS Ind. Sunday 9:30 p.m. CT
Harrisburg, PA WHTM RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
Harrison, AR KWBM MY Sunday 10:30 p.m. CT
Henderson, KY WEHT RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. CT
Huntsville, AL WHNT RTN Sunday 6:30 a.m. CT
Hutchinson, KS KGPT RTN Sunday 6:30 a.m. CT
Issaquah, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
Jackson, MS WJTV RTN Sunday 6:30 a.m. CT
Johnson City, TN WKPT RTN Sunday 5 p.m. ET
Johnstown, PA WJAC RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
Jonesboro, AR KAIT ABC Saturday 5 p.m. CT
Kaukauna, WI WBAY RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. CT
Kingman, AZ KAZT RTN Sunday 8:30 a.m. MT
Kingsport, TN WKPT RTN Sunday 5 p.m. ET
Knoxville, TN WMAK RTN Saturday 10 a.m ET
Lafayette, LA KDCG RTN Sunday 1 a.m. CT
Lake Havasu City, AZ KAZT RTN Sunday 8:30 a.m. MT
Las Vegas, NV KEGS Ind. Sunday 9:30 a.m. PT
Leavenworth, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
Lincoln, NE KLKN RTN Sunday 5 p.m. CT
Little Rock, AR KARK NBC Saturday 6 a.m. CT
Lynchburg, VA WSET RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. ET
Macon, GA WSB RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. ET
Madison, WI WKOW RTN Sunday 6:30 a.m. CT
McAllen, TX KRGV RTN Sunday 6:30 a.m. CT
Memphis, TN WLMT RTN/ABC Sunday 6:30 a.m. CT
Menasha, WI WBAY RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. CT
Meridian, MS WGBC RTN Sunday 6:30 a.m. CT
Mobile, AL WKRG RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. CT
Moline, IL WHBF RTN Sunday 5 p.m. CT
Montgomery, AL WSFA RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. CT
Myrtle Beach, SC WBTW RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
Nashville, TN WNAB CW Saturday Midnight CT
NE WI WBAY RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. CT
Neah Bay, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
Neenah, WI WBAY RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. CT
Northwest AR KFDF THIS Sunday 9:30 a.m. CT
NW Ohio WNWO RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
NW Ohio WXYZ RTN Sunday 5:30 a.m. ET
Olympia, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
Opelousas, LA KDCG RTN Sunday 1 a.m. CT
Orlando, FL WRDQ RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m ET
Palm Springs, CA KRET RTN Sunday 1 a.m. PT
Pensacola, FL WKRG RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. CT
Phoenix, AZ KAZT RTN Sunday 8:30 a.m. MT
Pittsburgh, PA WPXI RTN Sunday 2 a.m. ET
Point Pulley, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
Port Angeles, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
Prescott, AZ KAZT RTN Sunday 8:30 a.m. MT
Puyallup, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
Quad Cities, IL WHBF RTN Sunday 5 p.m. CT
Raleigh, NC WRAZ RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
Rapid City, SD KOTA RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
Rehoboth Beach, DE WRDE RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
Reno, NV KRXI RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. PT
Renton, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
Rhode Island WJAR RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
Ringgold, TN WRCB RTN Saturday 10 a.m ET
Rio Grande Valley KRGV RTN Sunday 6:30 a.m. CT
Roanoke, VA WSET RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. ET
Rock Island, IL WHBF RTN Sunday 5 p.m. CT
Rosslyn, Arlington, VA WJLA RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. ET
Rowley, IA KWWL RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. CT
S SC WSAV RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
S. Padre Island KRGV RTN Sunday 6:30 a.m. CT
San Luis Obispo, CA KEYT RTN Sunday 4:30 a.m. PT
Santa Barbara, CA KEYT RTN Sunday 4:30 a.m. PT
Santa Maria, CA KEYT RTN Sunday 4:30 a.m. PT
Savannah, GA WSAV RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
Schenectady, NY WTEN RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m ET
Scottsdale, AZ KAZT RTN Sunday 8:30 a.m. MT
SE GA WSAV RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
SE MI WXYZ RTN Sunday 5:30 a.m. ET
SE Michigan WNWO RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
Seattle, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
Sevierville, TN WMAK RTN Saturday 10 a.m. ET
Sharon, PA WTOV RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
Shelton, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
Sherman, TX KTEN NBC Sunday 11 p.m. CT
Shreveport, LA KSHV RTN Sunday 6:30 a.m. CT
S IL WPXS Ind. Sunday 9:30 p.m. CT
Sistersville, WV WTOV RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
Smithfield, NC WRAZ RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
Springfield, MO KCZ CW Sat., Sun. 6:30 a.m CT
Springfield, MO KWBM MY Sunday 10:30 p.m. CT
St. Louis WPXS Ind. Sunday 9:30 p.m. CT
State College, PA WJAC RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
Stubenville, OH WTOV RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
Susquehanna Valley, PA WHTM RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
SW Ontario WXYZ RTN Sunday 5:30 a.m. ET
Tacoma, WA KIRO RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. PT
Toledo, Ohio WNWO RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
Toledo, Ohio WXYZ RTN Sunday 5:30 a.m. ET
Tri-Cities WKPT RTN Sunday 5 p.m. ET
Troy, NY WTEN RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m ET
Tulsa, OK KTUL RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. CT
Washington, DC WJLA RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. ET
Waterloo, IA KWWL RTN Saturday 6:30 a.m. CT
Wheeling, W.V WTOV RTN Sunday 7:30 a.m. ET
Wichita, KS KGPT RTN Sunday 6:30 a.m. CT
Wilkes-Barre, PA WHTM RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
Windsor, Ontario WNWO RTN Sunday 9:30 a.m. ET
Windsor, Ontario WXYZ RTN Sunday 5:30 a.m. ET
Also seen on WBAY/RTN in Wisconsin, The Fox Cities communities including Town of Buchanan, Town of Clayton, Town of Freedom, Town of Grand Chute, Town of Greenville, Town of Harrison, Village of Combined Locks, Village of Hortonville, Village of Kimberly, Village of Little Chute, and the Village of Sherwood. Sundays at 9:30 a.m. CT Sundays

Disclaimer: BroadcastBranson.com is a service for the distribution of press releases, news and events. BroadcastBranson.com does not verify the validity or accuracy of the contents of the news that it distributes. Users are responsible for the contents of the press releases they submit to BroadcastBranson.com and the distribution via our service does not imply endorsement. BroadcastBranson.com takes no responsibility and holds no liabilities for information distributed.

May
17
Rachel Cantrell
rachel@marcwhitmore.com
The Mansion Entertainment and Media Center
818.679.6134
themansiontheatre.com
187 Expressway Ln.
Branson, MO   65616

BRANSON’S ‘COUNTRY TONITE’ STARS RETURN FROM IRAQ
WITH A WHOLE NEW PERSPECTIVE ON WAR AND SACRIFICE

The Oak Ridge Boys Theatre in Branson, MO is hosting the “Welcome Back From Iraq” press conference on Tuesday, May 5th at 5:30pm in the theatre’s lobby. Join the “Country Tonite” cast to relive their life changing experiences on their humanitarian trip to the front lines in Iraq. This short presentation will include never seen before footage and interviews of soldiers preparing for deployment in the Middle East. Food and opportunities for interviews will follow. Press is invited to see the Country Tonite show with Collin Raye at 8pm after the press conference.
Marty Wilhite thought he knew something about what soldiers experience when they’re called into duty and find themselves on foreign soil battling to protect freedoms in this world. “I pictured myself in their boots,” he said. “In fact every one of our shows ends with a segment dedicated to American veterans.”
Now, those dedications during the “Country Tonite” performances at The Oak Ridge Boys Theatre in Branson, MO have new and even deeper meaning for musical director Wilhite, his singer-dancer wife Kenya, and the dozens of other entertainers and dignitaries that accompanied them on their recent trip into hotbed centers of conflict in the Persian Gulf.
Unable to hold back tears when he speaks about the experience, Wilhite confesses he was naïve about the depth of commitment and sacrifice lived out by the American troops he met. “Some of them are just kids in their early 20s. Some are a little older and have come back usually by their own choice to serve their second and third, even fourth tour of duty in Iraq. They say things like, ‘I don’t want to leave my guys over here,’ and ‘We’ve got a job to do.’ Some have sick kids back in the States. Some have seen their marriages fall apart while they’ve been deployed. But through it all, they sacrifice everything they have to fulfill their commitment.”
Several stirring experiences during their goodwill mission resulted in transformed thinking for Marty and Kenya and their colleagues. “I’ve always supported the military,” Wilhite said, “but now I have a whole new perspective on the role of the military in a free society.” In fact, Wilhite claims little patience for individuals who talk down the U.S. military involvement in Iraq. “They’re not even qualified for the conversation. I would challenge anyone to experience what I did during those nine days over there, and see if their hearts and minds aren’t changed, too.”
Wilhite reports that as the cast and crew were setting up for one of their performances in Baghdad, some soldiers walked by and peered in with interest. Sadly, they weren’t going to be able to stay for the show since they were being deployed immediately to the front lines of battle in Afghanistan. “We just told them that there was a whole lot of people back home praying for them, and that we really appreciated what they were doing. They need to hear our thanks.”
On another occasion the show ran until about 10:30 one evening, but the cast stayed until nearly 1:30 the next morning greeting soldiers and signing autographs. “I think they were surprised that we were willing to stay that long,” Wilhite says of that night when the performers got very little sleep. “But we would have stayed longer, as long as there were folks who wanted to meet us.”
Wilhite exchanged contact information with many of the soldiers and told them that if they or their families were ever close to Branson, they’d be assured free admission to any of the shows at The Mansion. “When I got back to the States and checked my messages, so many were from the military personnel we met. They weren’t asking for any favors. They were calling to thank us for our being there to entertain them.”
Throughout the tour the mostly Branson-based ensemble, that not only included the “Country Tonite” cast, but also Tony Orlando and his band and several dignitaries, were escorted by highly trained security specialists and a number of high-ranking officers. “They were with us ‘24/7’, no small comfort when you hear those bombs going off around you.”
Wilhite and others were taken behind the scenes of the war and even witnessed a top-secret, technically sophisticated command center where the military operations are carefully observed and where sensitive and classified intelligence is gathered. “As we walked by each position to talk with those specialists, they would shut off their monitors and turn their laminated credentials face-down. That’s just how secure the operation is.”
It was the contact with the rank-and-file, boots-on-the-ground soldiers, however, that touched the hearts of the entertainers most deeply. At one location they were able to read letters from children in the U.S. expressing their thanks for the military effort. And once, when it appeared that the enlistees were giving the performers too much credit for their willingness to come to the Persian Gulf for their visit, Kenya Wilhite spontaneously broke out in an a cappella rendition of “Wind Beneath My Wings,” the pop ballad with the poignant chorus lyric, “Did you ever know that you’re my hero?”
“There’s something about seeing a big ol’ Marine with tears streaming down his face that really gets to you,” Marty Wilhite remembers. “It was an awesome moment, one of many. These guys deserve our deepest gratitude and a pat on the back from all of us.”

For more information,
please contact Rachel Cantrell,
818-679-6134

Disclaimer: BroadcastBranson.com is a service for the distribution of press releases, news and events. BroadcastBranson.com does not verify the validity or accuracy of the contents of the news that it distributes. Users are responsible for the contents of the press releases they submit to BroadcastBranson.com and the distribution via our service does not imply endorsement. BroadcastBranson.com takes no responsibility and holds no liabilities for information distributed.

May
16

New Website for Branson NightLife

Posted In: Branson by K. Carlton


K. Carlton
bransonnightlife@gmail.com
Branson NightLife
bransonnightlife.com
58 Perch St
Galena, MO   65656

BransonNightlife.com is a website for live local nightlife in the Branson area. Find where your favorite band is playing, find a karoake hotspot, or where to dance.
Follow us on twitter BransonNiteLife for daily updates. Be in the know!

Disclaimer: BroadcastBranson.com is a service for the distribution of press releases, news and events. BroadcastBranson.com does not verify the validity or accuracy of the contents of the news that it distributes. Users are responsible for the contents of the press releases they submit to BroadcastBranson.com and the distribution via our service does not imply endorsement. BroadcastBranson.com takes no responsibility and holds no liabilities for information distributed.

May
15
Rachel Cantrell
rcantrell@themansiontheatre.com
The Mansion Media and Entertainment Center
417-239-1333
themansiontheatre.com
189 Expressway Lane
Branson, MO   65616

For more information, contact:
Rachel Cantrell, The Mansion Theatre (818) 679-6134

CATHY RIGBY AS PETER PAN FLIES ONTO THE MANSION THEATRE STAGE;

Contrails of Fairy Dust Predicted for Branson Skies

Branson, Mo.: Cathy Rigby is on her way to get her hair cut — no doubt a “pixie cut” as she readies to reprise her role as the famous boy who wouldn’t grow up, but instead enchanted the hearts of those who dared to think lovely thoughts. Before she reaches the hair stylist, she takes a moment to reflect on what it means to be Peter Pan. “I get to be a kid for two hours every performance, eight performances a week,” she says. “What’s not to like about that?”
Like the character she has become so identified with over the last 20 years, the work never grows old for Rigby. With some 3,000 performances under her wings, the show is just as new and fresh and magical as the first time she made her entrance as Peter, flying in through the window of the Victorian home of the Darling family to look for his shadow. “Having done it so many times, I have to say Peter is much wiser than he used to be, but that doesn’t take away his innocence.”
Opening a three-month run at The Mansion Theatre on May 23rd, “Peter Pan” brings a new level of Broadway-style production to Branson, something Cathy Rigby is especially happy about. “It’s fun to be part of the first of anything, and bringing this kind of show to Branson may pave the way for more, high-concept musical theater.” She sees her show and The Mansion as perfectly suited for each other. The theater’s technical capabilities with rear-screen projection and rain curtains advance even further the spectacle that is Peter Pan. And, with the stage being as large as it is means this Peter may be flying higher, faster and farther than he ever has before.

Rigby as Peter Pan

It is that ability of Peter and the children (after they think lovely thoughts and get a sprinkling of fairy dust) to fly that audiences find most magical and memorable. The down side to soaring above the stage and audience are the occupational hazards, however rare.
The show’s potential for daring is exceeded only by the athleticism of its star. Rigby, the former Olympic gymnast, is hailed by critics for having made the role of Peter her own and infusing the entire performance with a level of energy rarely found in any big stage production. Every element of the show, from the scenery to the choreography to the soaring acrobatics, has been tailored either by or for Rigby to capitalize on her strength and physicality. “This is really a blessing,” she says. “Every time I catapult through that window in the opening act, it’s like a ride at the fair. I can hear the kids in the audience gasp; I can feel their excitement. I don’t know what I’d do if I had to have a real job!”
The Mansion production of Peter Pan features a cast of more than 30 people, many from Branson and the surrounding area. Notably among them is Peter’s nemesis, Captain Hook, played by Robert Westenberg of Springfield. “I approach Hook from an utterly tactical point of view,” Westenberg reflects. “He’s a charming S.O.B. who does what he does to survive and succeed. He’s the head buccaneer who uses force and intimidation to inspire awe and respect. There’s something archetypal about his villainy. He gloats, he revels in it. But it always shocks me just how easily bullies cave in,” says Westenberg, “which makes them all the more despicable!” A veteran of the Broadway stage, national touring companies, film and television, Westenberg now chairs the theater department at Springfield’s Drury University.
“It was a coup that we were able to get both Bob and his wife Kim to be with us,” says Cathy Rigby. Kim Crosby is cast in the show as both Mrs. Darling and the mermaid, two crucial acting roles in Rigby’s estimation. Crosby, who grew up in Springfield, met her future husband while they were on Broadway together in the original cast of “Into the Woods.” Westenberg says they were always drawn back to the beauty of Southwest Missouri, and when the opportunity to teach here surfaced four years ago there was little hesitation to move from New York.
Cathy Rigby gives Peter a vitality unparalleled in big stage performances. “People always tell me about their first experience seeing the show, who was in it and how it brightened their lives. Now they bring their children and grandchildren to see it, and in the process they experience its charms all over again for themselves.”

Disclaimer: BroadcastBranson.com is a service for the distribution of press releases, news and events. BroadcastBranson.com does not verify the validity or accuracy of the contents of the news that it distributes. Users are responsible for the contents of the press releases they submit to BroadcastBranson.com and the distribution via our service does not imply endorsement. BroadcastBranson.com takes no responsibility and holds no liabilities for information distributed.