BRANSON LANDING KICKS OFF THE “SCHOOL SHOES FOR KIDS” COMMUNITY OUTREACH CAMPAIGN!

Branson, MO, June 5, 2009 – Summer break is finally here and many families will visit the areas premier shopping, dining and entertainment destination – Branson Landing – to shop for new
school clothes, backpacks and all of the necessities that help make the first day of school an enjoyable experience. But, for many local families the thought of preparing their children for that much anticipated day is fought with anxiety and financial crisis. As an on-going support mechanism for the community, the Branson Landing has launched the fourth seasonal school shoe drive campaign “School Shoes for Kids”
in partnership with OnMedia Cable Company and The Mansion Entertainment and Media Center.

“Here at Branson Landing, we’ve been very fortunate to have the local community as well as visiting guests, embrace the various charitable events we’ve scheduled throughout the year. In particular, the “School Shoes for Kids” Campaign continues to be one of our biggest community successes and it is so rewarding to see both the retailers and patrons working together to provide the gift of a new pair of school
shoes to our local children in need,” stated Tammy Scholten, Director of Marketing for Branson Landing.

“Last year, we had six retail shoe stores serving as drop-off locations and we were able to collect over 800 new pairs of shoes…all of which were distributed to children living in Stone and Taney County. This year’s campaign promises to be even bigger with eight locations at Branson Landing participating, with a goal of giving in excess of 1000 pairs of new shoes to area school children,” concluded Scholten.

“As both an educator and parent, I see first hand how a child’s self-image impacts his ability to learn. Educational research has shown that there is a positive relationship between a student’s sense of self-worth and their eagerness to actively participate in the classroom environment. Providing students in need with items such as a new pair of shoes, backpacks and school supplies can make a significant impact on a positive, motivating start to the new school year,” stated Michelle Brenner, Assistant Principal at Branson High School. “It’s wonderful to continue to see how our community bands together to support our children,” added Brenner.

In a continuing effort to share this philanthropic program with the Branson entertainment industry, participating Branson Landing retailers will provide donors with one FREE child’s admission ticket to see PETER PAN, starring Cathy Rigby at the Mansion Theatre. “We were thrilled when Tammy Scholten from the Branson Landing approached us with the opportunity to share in this year’s program,” commented Larry Wilhite, General Manager of the Mansion Theatre. “Community focused campaigns that benefit our youth directly align with the Mansion’s mission statement and overall entertainment philosophy. We believe in supporting the Branson area and are proud to sponsor the program with free tickets to see PETER PAN, a family favorite” concluded Wilhite. Cathy Rigby, the starring celebrity of PETER PAN, shared Wilhite’s enthusiasm for the shoe drive. “I’m overjoyed to be associated with such a wonderful program that believes
in assisting area parents in support of the new school year. Branson has embraced me with open arms and I’m honored to have the opportunity to contribute to the success of this year’s campaign.”

Participation in the “School Shoes for Kids” program is very easy. Shoppers can simply purchase a new pair of shoes for school aged children—now through August 9th and drop them off at any of these Branson Landing business locations:
Bass Pro Shops Famous Footwear
Justice—Just for Girls Journey’s
New Balance – Branson Payless Shoes
Tradehome Shoes Branson Landing Management Office

New shoe donations will be accepted at any of the participating retailers’ drop off bins during normal operating hours now through August 9, 2009. All of the shoes collected during this campaign will be disbursed among two local charities, (Gift of Hope and Love, INC.) during their annual School Readiness Fairs held in August, as well as other assistance programs they provide throughout the year.

For additional information, visit the Branson Landing website at www.bransonlanding.com or www.bransonlandingshops.com.