Ozark Mountain Prayer Breakfast

BRANSON, MO, April 7, 2013 — What was formerly the Branson Mayors Prayer Breakfast has a new name and a new location. The annual regional prayer event will be held Thursday, May 2, 2013 beginning promptly at 6:45 a.m. and ending promptly at 8:30 a.m.

After prayerful consideration, event members of the Branson Christian Business Men’s Committee (Branson CBMC) decided to change the name from Branson Mayors Prayer Breakfast to OZARK MOUNTAIN PRAYER BREAKFAST ™.

“We appreciate the mayors who have joined us in this event over the past 12 years, especially Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley who lent her support since she was elected,” stated Bill Budnick, President of Branson CBMC. “However, because we have a new location and the opportunity to reach more people, we chose to rename the event to reflect our desire to be more inclusive.

In the past six to seven hundred business professionals, minister leaders, church members and community supporters have attended, according to Budnick.

The new location is the Branson Convention Center in Downtown Branson. As in the past, seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, according to advanced ticket sales.

Because of the underwriting of area businesses, Branson CBMC has been able to keep ticket prices comparable to previous years. Major area underwriters include: Cox Medical Center Branson, Silver Dollar City, Lilley’s Landing Resort and Marina, and Heim, Young & Associates, Friends of Jerry Lilley (in memoriam.) Individual advanced tickets are still $25 and $27.50 at the door (as available) and tables of eight may be sponsored for $185.00.

The breakfast event includes a hot and hearty breakfast, inspirational songs, prayers led by local pastors and ministry leaders, the presentation of the Kingdom Builder Award, and the keynote address. This year, the keynote address will be given by Emeal (E.Z.) Zwayne, Vice-President of Living Waters, a ministry of Kirk Cameron and Ray Comfort.
Living Waters developed The Way of the Master, a training program to help prepare Christians to confidently share the gospel even in the most adverse circumstances. This ministry also developed 180, an award winning movie that gives another perspective on abortion. According to Ray Comfort, President of Living Waters, “more often than not, those who watch it do a complete 180.”

Set against the backdrop of Hilter’s slaughter of the Jewish people, Comfort engages especially young men and women on the streets and asks them a series of questions that often “brings them to another revelation about their opinions concerning abortion and their extra-biblical beliefs concerning God and his son Jesus Christ.,” said Comfort.
Complimentary copies of the 180 movie will be given to each person in attendance at the Ozark Mountain Prayer Breakfast ™.
According to Budnick, this year there will be a special emphasis on youth. Branson CBMC is encouraging all area youth groups to prayerfully consider bringing their members to the event.

“We have businesses in the community such as Branson Dental Center and Lilley’s Landing Resort and Marina that have generously sponsored tables for C of O nursing students,” said Budnick. “We’d like to see that opportunity extended to high school students as well.”

Budnick says he believes it is important for young people to see members of the business community who are committed to openly expressing their faith in Christ.
“Our goal remains the same: to glorify our Heavenly Father and his son, Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, for an hour and forty-five minutes, and to join our voices with those around the nation in prayer for our regions, states, country, our elected officials and those who bravely serve in our nation’s military,” said Budnick.
Tickets are available by sending checks to Branson CMBC, P.O. Box 1246, Branson, MO. A downloadable ticket order form is available at www.ozarkmountainprayerbreakfast.com. Questions may be directed to Carolyn at 417-334-6308.

Ozark Mountain Prayer Breakfast ™ is held in celebration of the National Day of Prayer.

The Track Family Fun Parks in Branson, Missouri announced today the 3rd launch of “Life on Track” – a teen safe driving program. Several school districts from the junior high to high school levels will be involved: Branson, Hollister, Forsyth, Reeds Spring and Taneyville. The Track will create a simulated DUI experience, as well as an exercise demonstrating the dangers associated with texting while driving. Prior to the actual driving events, officials from the Branson Police Department will conduct an education session. The program has grown from two participating school districts in 2010 to five districts this year consisting of approximately 550 students. The event will be held at The Track 5 location on September 4th , 5th ,6th and 7th.

“Life on Track” will elevate the awareness of the seriousness and impact of drunk driving. The Track and the Branson Police Department are working together to help ensure the safety of our Tri-Lakes families. This engaging experience includes the use of simulator goggles while driving a course and “walking the line” to showcase the effects of driving under the influence of alcohol. There will also be an element of texting while driving, which has become a bigger issue as mobile phones have become more prevalent and have gotten “smarter.”
According to the Underage Drinking Prevention Coalition of the Taney County Health Department, the average age of first use of alcohol among our youth has decreased to age 12. Nearly 50% of adolescents have had at least one drink by 8th grade. The Track is taking an active role in helping shine the light on this serious issue. Area youth will experience and learn in a safe environment how dangerous and difficult it actually is to drive while intoxicated. The number of families who are affected each year from DUI-related fatalities is devastating.
“For over 30 years, an important aspect of our company mission has been supporting families and kids in our community. With our facilities and resources, we have the unique ability to offer a safe environment where kids can learn some very important life lessons. If we just open the eyes of a few students to the dangers of drunk and/or distracted driving, Life on Track will be a success,” comments Craig Wescott, President/Co-Owner of The Track Family Fun Parks.
“With over 200 of our teenage students participating in the ‘Life on Track’ program, we are sure to make an impact with them on the facts about drinking and driving,” said Brad Swofford, Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Services at the Branson School District. “We are grateful for the opportunity this program affords our students to learn the hazards they face when mixing alcohol with driving.”

The Track is proud to welcome sponsors such as Branson Bank, Ozark Mountain Bank, Andy’s Frozen Custard, Pizza World, IMAX Entertainment Complex, Lodge of The Ozarks and Verizon to this community program and event. If you wish to help or get involved, please contact The Track.

We would like to invite all media who wish to experience driving with the simulator goggles, to participate with the live events or to interview officials regarding the educational content to contact The Track and plan to attend this event on September 4, 5, 6 or 7 from 9:00-11:30 am or 1:00 to 2:30 pm at Track 5 (3525 W. 76 Country Blvd.) in Branson, Missouri.
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About The Track Family Fun Parks:
The Track Family Fun Parks started entertaining local and visiting families in 1981. The four Branson, Missouri locations offer high-rise and classic go-kart tracks for all ages, laser tag, bumper boats/cars, mini golf, kids’ rides, arcades, and more with no gate admission charge. www.bransontracks.com

Branson Country USA with Laura Dees – June 22, 2012

Recorded LIVE on Friday night at 10:30 PM
This show is broadcast on radio stations around the country.
Airing Saturday nights at 7:00 PM on KRZK – 106.3 in Branson, MO.
And Sunday nights at 9:00 PM. on KHOZ – 102.9 in Harrison, AR.

You can also listen via the internet. www.bransoncountryusa.net
Show airs at 7:00 PM (cst.) – Every Saturday Night

Grand Country Music Hall
1945 W. 76 Country Blvd.
Branson, MO 65616
417-335-2484 – Reservations
417-336-5829 – Fax

All new for 2012: Finalists Live!

Bringing the talent of American Idol® to Branson, this show is a must see for the whole family.

May 14th – June 16th performances include:

2009 American Idol® Winner: Lee DeWyze
Branson’s Own and 2003 Contestant: Kimberly Caldwell
2007 Beat Box Performer and Runner Up: Blake Lewis
2006 Third Place Contestant: Elliott Yamin
2011 Top 24: Thia Megia

All hosted by 2009 America’s Got Talent® Finalist: Impressionist Pete Peterkin

You voted to make them famous …. now see them live!

For more information or to purchase your tickets call:
Andy Williams Moon River Theater
1-800-666-6094

Upcoming Summer Performances of Finalists Live! include:

June 18th – July 21st

2004 Runner Up: Diana Degarmo
Season 4 5th Place Contestant: Scott Savol
6th Place Season 9 Contestant: Siobhan Magnus
Season 5: Ace Young
Season 8: Alexis Grace

Hosted by: Pete Peterkin

July 23rd – August 18th

2004 American Idol® Winner: Reuben Studdard
Season 4 Runner Up to Carrie Underwood: Bo Bice
3rd Place Season 4 Contestant: Vonzell Solomon
Season 9: Katie Stevens
Season 1: RJ Helton

Hosted by: Pete Peterkin

WASHINGTON, May 02, 2012 (BUSINESS WIRE) — The Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH) is proud and honored to salute Mayor Raeanne Pressley and the Board of Aldermen, Branson, Missouri on the occasion of proclaiming Branson as the first Purple Heart City in the State of Missouri.

The public is invited to attend the Proclamation ceremony that will take place at 7:00 PM, Tuesday, May 8, 2012 at City Hall Council Chambers, 110 W. Maddux St., Branson, MO. Already regarded as “The most veteran friendly city in the United States,” by proclaiming itself a “Purple Heart City,” Branson pays special tribute to the almost 2 million dedicated and brave servicemen and women who have either been killed or wounded in combat, and honors not only Missouri’s Purple Heart recipients but all veterans across the nation.

Receiving the Proclamation on behalf of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, will be Everett Kelly, Commander of the MOPH Department of Missouri. Also participating in the ceremony will be Past Department Commander Carl Dietrich and numerous other members of the MOPH from throughout the State of Missouri. In honor of this occasion, Commander Kelly will present the City of Branson a Military Order of the Purple Heart flag to be flown each year on Purple Heart Day, August 7.

The organization now known as the “Military Order of the Purple Heart of the U.S.A. Inc” (MOPH) was formed in 1932 for the protection and mutual interest of all combat wounded veterans and active duty men and women who have received the decoration. Chartered by the Congress, the MOPH is unique among Veteran Service Organizations in that all of its members were wounded in combat. For this sacrifice they were awarded the Purple Heart Medal.

With grants from the MOPH Service Foundation, the MOPH and its Ladies Auxiliary promote Patriotism, Fraternalism, and the Preservation of America’s military history. Most Importantly, through veteran service, they provide comfort and assistance to all veterans and their families, especially those requiring claims assistance with the VA, those who are homeless, and those requiring employment assistance. Through the VAVS Program, MOPH volunteers selflessly provide assistance to hospitalized veterans at VA medical facilities and State Veterans Homes.
SOURCE: Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH)

Branson Airport Announces Seasonal Nonstop Service On Branson AirExpress
Austin, Milwaukee, and Nashville Service Begins May 10th

BRANSON, MISSOURI (April 2, 2012) – Branson Airport (BKG) announces seasonal nonstop service to and from Austin, Texas (AUS), Milwaukee, Wisconsin (MKE), and Nashville, Tennessee (MQY) marketed as public charter flights by Branson AirExpress and operated by Corporate Flight Management (CFM).

The new non-stop service will operate 4 days per week on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from Austin and Milwaukee. The nonstop service to Nashville will operate 3 days per week.

Corporate Flight Management (CFM), a direct air carrier based in Smyrna, TN, is supporting Branson Air Express with aircraft operational services for the planned nonstop service to Austin, Milwaukee and Nashville. Allen Howell, CEO of CFM, stated “We are proud to support the Branson community and look forward to bringing air service to Branson, especially in light of the recent tornadoes.”

Branson AirExpress also announces a partnership with Social Flights, a social network for private aviators and social fliers. Social Flights will assist Branson AirExpress in marketing the planned new services to its current membership of 13,866 fliers and 98 Private Aviation Operators encompassing over 600 jets. Jay Deragon, CEO of Social Flights, said “Branson AirExpress is a perfect example of the 21st century model of efficient and effective community oriented air service initiated by and on behalf of the community.”

“Austin and Milwaukee were strong markets last year and the synergies that exist between Branson and Nashville are fantastic,” stated Branson Airport Executive Director, Jeff Bourk. “The joint venture between these cities, as well as Branson AirExpress and CFM, allows us to offer low fares and continued convenience for passengers getting to and from Branson, Missouri. In addition, the partnership allows CFM to operate the flights at their expense, as well as bring new experiences and creative ideas to the 2012 Branson AirExpress season.”

Branson AirExpress will offer low introductory fares to and from Austin, Milwaukee, and Nashville. For tickets, customers can call toll free 1-888-FLY-BKG1 (1-888-359-2541) or visit BransonAirExpress.com.

* Advertised public charter fares are one-way, they include Federal Excise Tax of 7.5%, Federal Flight Segment Taxes of $3.80 per person per flight segment, and a convenience fee of $10. Sale fares must be booked 7 days or more prior to travel. These fares are capacity controlled and may not be available on all seats on all flights. The convenience fee of $10 per person each way will be charged when booked by calling 1-888-FLY-BKG1 or through BransonAirExpress.com. Tickets purchased at the airport are not subject to the $10 charge. Fares are subject to availability at the time of booking, and are subject to change. A $20.00 checked baggage fee will apply for the first checked bag and $25.00 for a second checked bag per person. Each checked bag weighing over 50 pounds will be assessed a fee of $50 in addition to the checked bag fee. Dates of the advertised flights are subject to change in accordance with regulatory requirements. Cancellation is subject to administrative fee when permitted by regulatory requirements.

March 27, 2012

For Immediate Release

Contact: Gary Groman
Phone: 417-294-0404
Email: Gary@Groman.Com

Return of “Main Street Marina” to Lake Taneycomo Lakefront rekindles bygone era

BRANSON, MO, March 27, 2012 PCF, LLC, and its principals, the Milton family, announce the acquisition of the marina and cruise boat operation on the Branson Landing lakefront, from Gage Family Entertainment, LLC effective March 26, 2012. Justin Gage, spokesperson for Gage Family Entertainment, LLC, said that he has known and dealt with the Miltons for many years. “I strongly believe that they will be extraordinary stewards of what we built and what we took so much pride in,” he continued. PCF, LLC, spokesperson Larry Milton said, “Our family looks forward to continuing and building upon the Gage’s tradition of providing a quality Branson experience to its guests.”

Milton announced that the name of the marina, under its new ownership, will be the “Main Street Marina,” which was a historic Branson Lake Taneycomo lakefront landmark for decades. He said that the marina’s name is consistent with the nostalgic riverfront theme that will be an inherent part of the marina’s look and feel including its cruise line operation, “Main Street Lake Cruises.”

Milton was asked, “What connection there would be between the operation of ‘Main Street Marina’ and the ‘Branson Tourism Center,’ one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, also owned and operated by the Milton family?” His response was “They are two entirely different business operations. The Branson Tourism Center will continue to promote shows and attractions, including the cruises, and lodging in exactly the same manner as it always has and is completely separate from the marina and its operations.”

The cruise boat element, “Main Street Lake Cruises,” will operate two boats, the “Landing Princess” a 100 foot luxury yacht and the “Lake Queen” a modern day paddle-wheeler reminiscent of the grand riverboats of the past. Milton said that in addition to the name change to “Main Street Lake Cruises,” the hope is to build upon what the Gage Family had in place and explore even more ways of drawing visitors to Branson and all it has to offer. The General Manager of the entire “Main Street Marina” project is Steve Johnson.

In keeping with the heritage and history of the riverboats that have plied the White River in the past, Milton said that the operation of the “Lake Queen” paddle-wheeler will focus on a nostalgic narrated journey down Lake Taneycomo, an impoundment of the White River occurring when the Power Site Dam was completed in 1913. Passengers will also have the opportunity to experience the unique and beautiful natural Ozarks scenery with its vistas, carved bluffs and a spectacular constantly changing kaleidoscope of color, animals, birds, waterfowl, lake activity and a unique view of Branson Landing. The Lake Queen’s normal food service will consist of sandwiches, snacks and cold drinks etc.

Milton points out that the Lake Queen paddle-wheeler will be taken out of the water within a week or two for a major refurbishing and its required U.S. Coast Guard inspections. He said they hope to have it back in service by May 1st.

The Landing Princess will be used almost exclusively for dinner cruises, reunions, weddings and other special events. While aboard for its dinner cruise, passengers will have an opportunity to see the unique natural beauty of Lake Taneycomo; experience the spectacular performance of the “Branson Landing Fountains,” a $7.5 million spectacular attraction that synchronizes water, light, sound and fire from an on the lake perspective, and enjoy a wonderful full service dinner from the comfort of its two climate controlled entertainment decks.

Milton said that fishing will not be permitted from either the dock or any of their boats and that Main Street Marina will be working in conjunction with “Scotty’s Trout Dock” to assist those with fishing needs.

In addition to the cruises, the Main Street Marina also has 6,000 feet of restaurant space where Shorty Small’s was formerly located and a small retail space on the ground level, as well as 5,000 square feet of space, suitable for retail, on the second level available for rent. In terms of the restaurant space, Milton says that a franchise restaurant is “looking, but has not committed and we are interested in hearing from other restaurants.”

For additional information on the Main Street Marina project including the rental of restaurant or retail space at the marina please contact Steve Johnson at 417-239-3980.

Jonas Arjes Named Director of Business Development

BRANSON, Mo. – Jonas Arjes, a longtime Taney County resident and Branson business leader, has accepted the position of Director of Business Development for the recently organized Taney County Business Development Partnership.

The Partnership structure has been established, and participants are still being recruited. Financial support of the partnership has been committed by Taney County, Kirbyville, Merriam Woods and the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau. Verbal support has come from several public and private entities, with presentations being scheduled.

Arjes’ duties will include new business development and retention, and expansion of existing business within Taney County.
Arjes has been a Corporate Sales Executive with Akers & Arney insurance since 2007. Arjes received his Bachelor’s Degree from Missouri State University. He is married to Jennifer Arjes. They have three children.

He’s a charter member of the Rotary Club of Hollister where he serves as Sergeant-At-Arms. He also is Chairman-Elect of the Board of Directors of Christian Action Ministries.

Arjes is a graduate of the 2008 Leadership Academy of the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. Since 2008, he has served as an ambassador for the Chamber. In 2009, Arjes was presented the Jim Langham Ambassador of the Year Award.
Arjes had been slated to serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau for 2012.

“In selecting Jonas for this position, we knew we were losing a great leader, but this is the best decision for our community,” said Ross Summers, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau.

“His active involvement in many committees and activities over the years throughout the area, and his dedication to many Chamber efforts helped us realize he could be of greater benefit to the entire community in this capacity.”

Chamber Board Chairman-Elect for 2013 Janet Oller, director of marketing for Silver Dollar City, will now assume the position of chairman for 2012.
The choice of Arjes for this position has the support of Jeff Seifried, manager of regional development for the Springfield Regional Economic Partnership.

“Jonas’ passion for relationship-building and for Taney County will be of benefit to a multi-city-county economic partnership,” Siefried said.
David Akers of Akers & Arney said Jonas has been a great staff member and will remain a good friend.
“We are extremely excited for the new opportunity Jonas has to help further our community, and everyone here wishes him the best of luck, Akers said.

For more information, contact Bethany Thomas, Senior Vice President of the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau. 417-334-4084. BThomas@BransonCVB.com.

Veterans Grove Plaza Dedication Rescheduled for 3:30 pm on November 10, 2011

Veterans Grove Plaza Dedication has been rescheduled for 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 10.

The Veterans Grove Plaza is an expansion of Veterans Grove that displays flags representing each branch of the military, as well as the American Flag.

Veterans Grove honors World War II veterans who have participated in Patriotic Travel with C of O students. Each Veteran is honored with the planting of a Sugar Maple, which is aligned with others to create the same unique pattern of the marble crosses at the American cemeteries in Europe. Next to each Sugar Maple is a bronze marker with a Veteran’s name.

Veterans Mr. Andy Anderson, Mr. John Primerano and Mr. Louis Rabesa, who traveled with C of O students to Europe this summer with the Patriotic Education Travel Program, will have trees dedicated in their honor, during the Veterans Grove Plaza Dedication on Thursday.