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: [email protected]

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. [email protected].

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.

MoDOT Traffic Alert:

Route 248/65 Interchange Project:
Lane Closings Planned on Northbound
Ramp Sunday and Monday Nights

When: 5 p.m. to 6 a.m. Sunday and Monday, Oct. 24-25

Where: Northbound off-ramp from Route 65 to Route 248

What: Left-turn lane and through lane CLOSED on ramp.  Drivers will be able to turn right.  

Details: Contractors crews replacing pavement on closed off areas of ramp.

Michael Bolton in Concert at The Mansion Theatre – Saturday, October 8th at 8 pm.

Great seats are still available – Call our Box Office for details
(866) 707-4100 or (417)239-1333.

Michael Bolton, the multiple Grammy Award-winning Singer, Songwriter and Social Activist, who as sold more than 53 million albums and singles worldwide, is currently on a 115 city world tour spanning several continents, all while working on a myriad genre – and style-spanning projects including work in film, television and musicals. Bolton remains committed to humanitarian causes – advocating for at-risk women and children for over 20 years through the Michael Bolton Charities as well as other social and political organizations. Known for his soulful voice and poignant lyrics, his timeless style, charm and good looks have also earned his a spot in several “People Magazine’s Sexiest Man” issues, including this year’s “Sexiest Man in his 50’s!” Bolton credits his fans with being “the best in the world” and loves nothing more than bringing his timeless hits and classic brand to thrilled fans globally.

In recognition of his artistic achievements, Michael has received 2 Grammys for Best Pop Male Vocal Performance, 6 American Music Awards, and a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. As a songwriter, he has earned over 24 BMI & ASCAP Awards, including Songwriter of the Year, 9 Million-Air awards, and the Hitmakers Award from the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Internationally renowned, Michael has recorded and performed with musical icons that have inspired and influenced his own career. He joined Luciano Pavarotti on stage in a highly praised rendition of “Vesti La Giubba,” and pays homage to the Italian tenor when performing the aria “Nessun Dorma” at each of his concerts while on tour. He has sung with Placido Domingo, Jose Carreras and Renee Fleming and played guitar with BB King. Bolton earned a Grammy-nomination for “Georgia on my Mind,” and was chosen to sing the song to Ray Charles when Charles was inducted into the Jazz Hall of Fame. Recently, Michael performed duets with both Seal and Lara Fabian to standing ovations for a PBS special airing in March of 2011.

A diverse and prolific songwriter, Michael’s songs have been recorded by over 100 artists, ranging from country western legend Conway Twitty to hip hop superstar Kayne West, who along with Jay-Z and John Legend have sampled his music! Other greats who have performed Bolton’s tunes include Mark Anthony, Wynonna Judd, Joe Cocker, Peabo Bryson, Kenny Rogers and Patti Labelle. Michael has penned #1 hit singles impacting the careers of artists such as Laura Branigan (“How Am I Supposed to Live Without You”), KISS (“Forever”), Barbra Streisand (“We’re Not Making Love Anymore”), Cher (“I Found Someone”), and Kenny G (“By the Time this Night is Over”). Bolton has collaborated with some of the greatest songwriters of our time, Diane Warren, Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, John “Mutt” Lange, Lady GaGa and Ne-Yo, among others. He is one of the very few artists who have co-written with the legendary Bob Dylan, resulting in the mega hit, “Steel Bars”.

Michael has always balanced a love for writing new songs with a passion for covering the classics. On his breakthrough album “The Hunger,” Bolton authored the #1 single “That’s What Love is All About” and sang his chart topping version of of Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ On) the Dock of the Bay”, which was a hit on 4 radio formats. That album was certified double Platinum and shipped 4 million copies worldwide.

To date, Michael has seen 8 studio albums rank in the Top Ten, with 9 #1 singles. Bolton’s true signature success was seized with the 6x platinum album “Soul Provider”, selling more than 12 million copies world-wide, and showcasing several chart-toppers including #1 hit single “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You,” which earned Michael his first Grammy. This pivotal album also includes the hit singles “When I’m Back on My Feet Again,” “How Can We Be Lovers,” and “Soul Provider.”

April 1, 2011

SUBJECT: AREA CHILDREN’S ART ON DISPLAY AT RALPH FOSTER MUSEUM APRIL 11-MAY 20
By: Austin Plummer

The Children’s Art Show will open this month at College of the Ozarks Ralph Foster Museum in Edwards Art Gallery.  This annual exhibit, displaying the talent and creativity of local school children’s art, will run April 11 – May 20, 2011.

The art chosen by area school teachers includes pen and ink drawings, crayon sketches, acrylic paintings, paper mache creations and imaginative sculptures.

“The Children’s Art Show is a big hit every year with the visitors, the school children, parents and our own museum staff,” says Director of Ralph Foster Museum Annette Sain.  “We feel this is a fun show with no pressure on the students to compete for awards.”

The Ralph Foster Museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  General admission prices are $6 for adults and $5 for seniors; high school age students and younger are free. Parents of the children participating in the art show will receive free admission.

For more information, please contact The Ralph Foster Museum at (417) 690-3407.