March 18, 2012
Contact: Pam Critchfield
Phone: 417-598-0662
Email: [email protected]

Beijing China, The Legend of Kung Fu live stage performance, seen throughout the world in the past 8 years has created a record in the history of Chinese performing arts.

The Most Performances of a show in China since 1949. The Legend of Kung Fu debuted in May 2004 in the Red Theatre, Beijing. With a record 3887 performances in Beijing alone and 1159 in countries through-out the world, The Legend of Kung Fu has entertained over 3 million audiences.

The Legend of Kung Fu is the most performed show in China since the foundation of PRC in 1949. The creator of this legendary show is a company headquartered in Beijing, China Heaven Creation International Performing Arts Co., Ltd (CHC).

The Legend of Kung Fu, is a huge theatrical production that tells the journey of a boy (Chun Yi) who was left at the doorway of a temple by his mother and adopted by the old master. Under the tutelage of the master and fellow monks, Chun Yi experiences the trials and tribulations it takes to find his way to the enlightenment and finally becoming a master of Kung Fu, both physically and spiritually.

The Legend of Kung Fu is a breathtaking combination of authentic martial arts including 20 types of traditional Chinese martial arts skills including traditional Shaolin boxing, animal-imitating boxing, Had Qigong, Tai Chi boxing and more. The unique choreography of ballet, modern dance and acrobatics showcased with state of the art lighting, traditional Chinese sets and an original musical score takes this show to an unprecedented level of entertainment enjoyed by all cultures.

Mr. Cao Xiaoning, the concept and Executive Producer of the show said “growing and pain” is what every human experiences in the journey of life. Those who never cease their pursuit for self-fulillment and spiritual perfection are always the heroes in any arts. To this extent, Chun Yi’s story could be a story of each of us”.

The Journey to the West. After being revised more than 30 times, The Legend of Kung Fu has become a brand show in 7 versions and 4 languages (English, Russian, Japanese and Spanish) and has toured in America, Canada, UK, Japan, Russia and Spain. Although the languages may be different, one thing remains the same, The Legend of Kung Fu shares standing ovations worldwide including, London Coliseum, Canada Princess of Wales Theatre, Vancouver Queen Elizabeth Theatre, The White House Theatre in Branson and many more.

The Legend of Kung Fu was approved by the committee of London West End Arts Festival as the only foreign production entering West End of London in the summer of 2009. This show presented 27 performances in London Coliseum, being highly recommended by renowned media and critics.

In Branson, U.S.A., The Legend of Kung Fu put on 584 performances in seasons of 2010 and 2011 in the White House Theatre, which CHC had purchased in 2009. The show was awarded as “The Best New Show of the Year” in 2010 and selected as “The Best Production Show” in 2010 and 2011. It has now become one of the icons representing high quality and international standard in Branson’s show market.

In 2011, CHC started its exploration into Europe by working with a big show company in Europe. Both sides signed a contract on the show’s tour in Europe in the next 10 years. Totally 1200 performances per year will be staged globally.

Chinese Culture Embraced by American Community –
The Legend of Kung Fu is not just “going global”, but is trying to “go inside”, which means to enter the mainstream of American show market, and to go into people’s hearts. On March 14th, the second day after arrival, despite of the jetlag the artists of The Legend of Kung Fu gave a 30-minute show for a 8-year-old boy suffering from brain cancer, as soon as they were told the boy was waiting to see the show for months. The special show made the headline across the front page of Branson Tri-lake Daily News and soon became a hot topic among local citizens. It was the first time ever that a Chinese show contributed to the local charity in such a powerful way.

In May 2011，Joplin, a small county near Branson, was hit by a tornado. The Legend of Kung Fu took part in the Branson Benefit Concert & Telethon for Joplin Tornado Relief, organized by The Branson Show League. It was considered as the most impressive show with its elaborate choreography and the artists’ devoted performance. The Legend of Kung Fu attracted eyeballs as the whole event was live broadcasted throughout the U.S.A. via television, radio and the internet.

A Chinese production which is brought into the American entertainment market for a permanent stay instead of short tours, needs the ability to survive the fierce international arena, as well as to be embraced by the local community, which requires the show, the artists and the Chinese company to become part of the local community life, so that the Chinese, Chinese culture and Chinese productions can make their contributions to the build-up of the local community.

Looking back its legendary way on the occasion of it’s 5000th performance, it shows that simply “going global” is not enough, it has to go inside the mainstream market, go inside the local community life, go into local people’s hearts and finally be embraced by different worlds. That explains why it was and will continue to be a journey of revisions and self-improvements ahead. That is the secret of the success of The Legend of Kung Fu.

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.

Branson’s IMAX Entertainment Complex is hosting a Red Cross Blood Drive!

3562 Shepherd of the Hills, Branson MO
Friday, March 30, 2012
10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Bloodmobile in parking lot

Go to www.redcrossblood.org, and enter zip code 65616 to find the blood drive listed.

Be sure to bring photo Id or donor card.
Be sure to eat prior to donating blood.
Refreshments served following blood donation.
Thanks for being a blood donor!

Don’t miss the Giant-Screen adventure, Rescue – now playing during the 19th Annual IMAX FilmFest!

Take action and save lives! Explore the difficult & inspiring work of those serving & saving others in the face of natural disasters. Follow a naval commander, two pilots, and a volunteer technician as they train for action. When an earthquake strikes Haiti, the audience is swept along, joining with the worldwide effort.

With every ticket sold to Rescue, a donation is made to support the American Red Cross Disaster Relief to help those affected by disasters close to home and anywhere in the world.

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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Washington DC, March 21, 2012

MOPH National Commander Testifies on Veteran Priorities for 2012

On March 21, 2011, Bill Hutton, National Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, testified before a joint hearing of the Senate and House Committees on Veteran’s Affairs on the priority veteran issues that the organization believes the Congress needs to address in the 112th Session of Congress.

National Commander Hutton Testifies Before Congress

In his opening remarks, Commander Hutton thanked the respective Committee Chairmen for their continuing efforts on behalf of America’s Veterans and the many accomplishments achieved during the 111th Legislative Session. However, Hutton made clear that much remains to be done to support of our military men and women who have served and continue to serve in harm’s way. MOPH believes, without equivocation, that upon their return home these veterans deserve the best health care available and the timely processing of claims for any benefits earned by their service.” According to Commander Hutton, “MOPH’S priorities for the Second Session of 112th Congress include:

TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY (TBI): MOPH notes that the signature wound of conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan is TBI. These injuries change the lives of victims and the lives of their loved ones forever. While none of us can change this horrific episode in their lives, we can insist and ensure that they receive the best possible medical care that is available. MOPH supports S. 957 and H.R. 1855, the “Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitative Services Improvements Act Of 2011.”

POST TRAUMATIC STRESS (PTS): After ten years of war and multiple combat deployments, many military members are suffering the effects of PTS. Suicide and attempted suicide rates continue to be of concern among our military including Guard, Reserves and Veterans in spite of the many efforts by DoD, the VA and others in the medical profession. PTS also affects the member or veteran’s family as well and is one of the significant contributing causes of suicide, homelessness, substance abuse and acts of violence including domestic violence, sexual assaults and unemployment. MOPH especially urges Congress to provide necessary funding to ensure that additional medical and mental health specialists are available at DoD and VA facilities to provide service to veterans suffering from PTS.

VA CLAIMS BACKLOG: MOPH and other VSOS have testified on these issues for many years. The Veterans Committees have held many hearings concerning the delay and accuracy of processing VA benefits claims, and Secretary Shinseki has placed the reduction of the time required to process a claim as one of his top priorities. MOPH urges Congress to ensure that VA has sufficient funding to continue to update information technology systems, and to have qualified professionals process claims in a timely manner. It is also imperative that the VA concentrate on accuracy and gets it right the first time. Finally, the VA and DoD should once and for all perfect their partnership to immediately implement a truly seamless transition system.

ELIMINATION OF THE SURVIVOR BENEFIT PROGRAM (SBP) AND THE DEPENDENT INDEMINITY COMPENSATION (DIC) OFFSET: MOPH acknowledges that this issue has little visibility in Congress at this time of austere budget measures. However, all recognize that the dollar for dollar offset of SBP receipts by the amount of DIC receipts is wrong. The military member paid for SBP; just as we all do for an insurance policy to provide for the surviving spouse. DIC, which is administered by the VA, is paid when a military retiree dies of a service connected injury or a disability. MOPH was disappointed that a provision in the National Defense Authorization Act for 2012, which would have corrected this onerous situation, did not become a part of the final legislation. MOPH will keep the offset issue on the radar screen as it affects many thousands of surviving spouses and at some point we are hopeful that justice will be done.

JOINT PRISONERS OF WAR, MISSING IN ACTION ACCOUNTING COMMAND (JPAC): Although not under the purview of the Veteran Committees, MOPH addresses it to you as members of Congress and American citizens. MOPH has an unwavering commitment to obtain the fullest possible accounting of all Americans still listed as missing in action and unaccounted for. Guaranteeing the return of fallen warriors from the many battlefields is a most sacred of missions; none of our members will rest until this mission has been fulfilled. As veterans we follow the adage that “we leave no soldier behind.” The fulfillment of this sacred mission is important not only to the families who seek closure but to our country. MOPH urges Congress to provide full funding for JPAC for as many years as it takes to complete the mission.

FUNDING FOR THE VA HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATION (VHA): MOPH urges the Congress to ensure adequate funding to care for those veterans who are enrolled in the VHA system, especially as the number of returning Iraq and Afghanistan veterans requiring medical attention continues to increase. MOPH supports H.R. 3895, the “Protect VA Healthcare Act of 2012.” We agree that the healthcare of America’s veterans should not be subject to the sequestration provisions of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act. This country sends our men and women to war and we must recognize our responsibility to care for them when they return.

CONCURRENT RECEIPT: This is another one of those issues that is obviously wrong and an injustice, but given the current deficit and budget woes, may not be addressed by this congress. Nevertheless MOPH believes that all military retirees, regardless of VA disability rating, should be authorized to receive both their earned military retirement for their many years of dedicated service in uniform and the VA compensation, which is a benefit that they receive for being injured or diagnosed with an illness as a result of their military service.

VETERANS EMPLOYMENT: MOPH is pleased that Congress passed, and the President signed into law, The “Vow to Hire Heroes Act of 2011” to address the extremely high veteran unemployment rate. With the nation’s unemployment rate at 8.5 percent and the rate for veterans at 12 percent, MOPH urges Congress to ensure full implementation of this program.

TRICARE/MEDICARE: Many members of MOPH rely on these two programs for their health care. For retired military members, Tricare is an important benefit that was earned. MOPH urges Congress to take action to prevent the 27 percent cut in payments that will take effect on March 1 of this year, to medical providers who accept Tricare/Medicare patients. It is well known that many doctors are not accepting new patients or are opting out of the program altogether.

SERVICE DISABLED VETERAN OWNED SMALL BUSINESSES (SDVOSBs) AND VETERAN OWNED SMALL BUSINESSES (VOSBs): Through congressional efforts, Public Law (PL) 106-50 was signed into law in 1999 and Part 19, of the Federal Acquisition Regulations, gave Service Disabled Veterans the opportunity to be part of the Federal Government contracting arena as a designated group. As enacted, Public Law 106-50 established a SDVOSB procurement goal of 3 percent for all federal agencies and prime contractors. However, it was discovered that PL 106-50 did not allow for set aside procurements for SDVOSBs and thus, other mandates were created to establish lawful procurement vehicles to assist agencies in achieving the 3 percent goal. However, the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) “Veterans First Program” is not operating in a manner that puts Veterans first and uses other procurement methods to bypass SDVOSBs and VOSBs. The MOPH urges that you insist that the VA adhere to Congressional intent and guarantee that veterans do come first in implementing the Veterans First Program.

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 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.

For information contact:
MOPH National Legislative Director, Hershel Gober, (202) 550-2491, [email protected]
or
National Public Relations Director, John Bircher, 352-753-5535
Email: [email protected]
www.purpleheart.org

College of the Ozarks Aquatics Department, in conjunction with the American Red Cross’ “Learn to Swim” program, will offer swim lessons from April 16-26, 2012, at the Howell W. Keeter Athletic Complex Natatorium.

Lessons are offered to children ages six months through 15 years. The “Parent and Child Aquatics” program, available to students six months to four years old, will begin at 5 p.m. nightly.

The “Learn to Swim” program, available for students ages 5 to 15, will be offered in two different sessions. The first session begins at 5:30 p.m. and the second begins at 6:15 p.m. Participants will be divided into groups based on ability, and each group will have its own instructor.

There are eight lessons in the program, and the registration fee per student is $60. Participants may register beginning Monday, March 26, by calling Associate Professor of Physical Education Bill Keeter at (417) 690-2567 or C of O Athletic Department at (417) 690-2565.

March 19, 2012
Branson, MO

The 4th Annual “Hand in Hand Branson Honors Purple Heart Recipients” will take place April 26 – 28, 2012. This 3 day event is sponsored by Branson.com, Hand in Hand for Veterans and the Branson Community. I would like to say a special thank you to the following businesses and individuals….The “Hamner Barber Theatre” for their continued support of the event by allowing us to use their theatre as the “home” of the Purple Heart Recipients. The “Entertainers” who sing and entertain for those combat wounded, Central Pro – Am Association who create the “fishing contest,” along with Scotties Trout Dock. Branson Landing Shops for opening their doors for a “culinary experience,” Shepherd of the Hills” for sponsoring the “fish fry,” The Titanic for inviting the Purple Heart Recipients to be guests on their ship and Taney County Sheriff Jimmie Russell for coordinating the motorcycle run, Chip & Sandy Milner for coordinating registration, Jim Jewsbury from MODot and to all the volunteers that help throughout the three days. A special “shout out” to the businesses in town who allow our guests to be PROUD they are Veterans.
Our combat wounded comment each year about how wonderful all of the people in the different business are to them and their families. It gives me great pleasure to pass this information on to all of you in our community.
Without the Veteran we cannot be “FREE” and all of you openly share your love and patriotism for these men and women and I wanted to start our year by saying………THANK YOU, Branson.

Marlyce Stockinger, Event Coordinator
“Hand in Hand Branson Honors Purple Heart Recipients”

Connell Joins Business Partnership

Connell Insurance, Inc. has joined the Taney County Business Development Partnership as a board member. One of the goals of the partnership is to create and sustain jobs throughout the year as well as supporting and nurturing existing businesses within the community.

As a Taney County business owner, Tim Connell stressed the importance of this partnership opting to become a board member. “I’ve lived in Taney County all my life. I understand that while tourism is what drives the community, it’s the sustainability of jobs and local employees which will help to strengthen the community.”

The Partnership is one of several Missouri agencies coordinating relief and assistance to the businesses that were directly impacted by the February 29th EF2 tornado.

For more information, visit www.ConnellInsurance.com or call (417) 334-2000.

Connell Insurance, based in Hollister, MO, is one of the largest insurance agencies serving southwestern Missouri. An independent insurance agency, Connell specializes in both commercial and personal lines of insurance, representing numerous insurance companies.