Branson Armed Forces Day ceremony set for May 19

Armed Forces Day, a tradition of heroes, will be commemorated in Branson on Saturday, May 19, at 9:45 a.m. in the fountain area at Branson Landing with Col. Steve Danner of Hollister as the guest speaker. Branson Veterans Task Force (BVTF) sponsors the hour-long ceremony. WWII veteran Gene Bryon of the First Presbyterian Church of Branson will join Danner. Bryon will lead the invocation. Participating in the ceremony are the Branson High School ROTC, Branson Landing's bagpiper Jason Gunn and the Branson Landing Fountain performance of the Star Spangled Banner, according to David Porter. Porter is a member of the board of directors of the BVTF and chairman of the event. Porter said, "I am delighted at the support from Branson High School ROTC and Branson Landing. I am also pleased Col. Danner has agreed to serve as our guest speaker. He is an outstanding example of service to his country." An Army veteran and a former Missouri state congressman, Danner served in the regular Army from 1972 through 1974, as a combat engineer. Danner entered the Missouri National Guard in the Judge Advocate General's Corps and served from 1981 to 1999, his last duty assignment being Deputy Chief of Staff for special projects. Danner served in the Army Reserve from 2000-2001 following which he returned to the Missouri National Guard. He is a graduate of the Army Command and General Staff College, and the Army War College, where he received a Master of Strategic Studies and a Military Education Level One certificate. Danner served as Commander of the 140th Regiment (RTI) at Fort Leonard Wood, 2002-2004, until his appointment as Assistant Adjutant General State of Missouri, where he served as senior advisor to the Adjutant General and a member of the Missouri Military Council and the Career Management Board. Danner was called to active duty in support of the Global War on Terrorism in June of 2005. During Operation Iraqi freedom Danner served as the Command Judge Advocate, 35th Area Support Group, the Garrison command of Camp Anaconda, the largest Army/Air base in Iraq. Danner was awarded the Bronze Star in recognition of his actions in support of US military combat operations. Upon his return, Danner was assigned as the State Judge Advocate, Joint Force HQ Missouri Army National Guard. A national observance to honor Americans serving in the five services including the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard, Armed Forces Day is recognized annually on the third Saturday in May. Armed Forces Week begins on the second Saturday of May and ends on the third Sunday of May, the day after Armed Forces Day. Because of their unique training schedules, National Guard and Reserve units may celebrate over any period in May. President Harry S. Truman led the effort to establish a single holiday for citizens to thank the military members for their patriotic service to their country. In a speech in 1950 announcing the formation of the day, Truman said, "It is vital to the security of the nation and to the establishment of a desirable peace." About Armed Forces Day 1953, President Dwight D. Eisenhower said, "It is fitting and proper that we devote one day each year to paying special tribute to those whose constancy and courage constitute one of the bulwarks guarding the freedom of this nation and the peace of the free world." "Our Armed Forces and our national defense system represent a judicious investment of the nation's resources in the cause of peace. The return on this investment, in terms of national strength, shows the determination of the American people to preserve our way of life and to give hope to all who seek peace with freedom and justice," said the Honorable Neil McElroy, former Secretary of Defense, in 1959. President John F. Kennedy in 1962 said, "...Word to the Nation: Guard zealously your right to serve in the Armed Forces, for without them, there will be no other rights to guard." This Armed Forces Day ceremony is just one of many community service projects supported by the BVTF and its partners. The BVTF's largest event is Veterans Homecoming in November. The Task Force works to promote an environment of patriotic pride and dignity to recognize and honor the America's veterans and their families. For more information contact: Branson Veterans Task Force Inc., 138 Pointe Royale Drive Suite 0 (Helms Building), Branson, MO 65615 or call 417-337-VETS.

Water Works - Travel Section Feature on Branson from St. Louis-Dispatch

Water works BY TOM UHLENBROCK St. Louis Post-Dispatch BRANSON, Mo. - The star of the show was out of action for the week. The main mission of my trip to Branson was photographing the $7.5 million "water and fire spectacle" that was packing them in on the Town Square amid the condos, shops and restaurants of Branson Landing on the Lake Taneycomo waterfront. Promos for the new $420 million commercial district described the attraction as "a dazzling interplay of water fountains shooting 120-foot geysers and fire cannons blasting choreographed fireballs -- all composed with light and music." The display was created by the same folks who gave us the waltzing waters in front of the Bellagio in Las Vegas. But in place of water geysers and blasting fireballs was a sign that said: "Fountain under maintenance." A lone worker was toiling inside one of the silent cannons. Bummer. The fountain was about the only thing not working in Branson these days. Dan Lennon, vice president of the area chamber of commerce, had a handful of impressive statistics ready when we met for lunch at Chateau on the Lake, which sort of symbolizes a turnaround going on in this entertainment area in the Ozark hills of southwest Missouri. "People thought John Q. was nuts when he built this place," Lennon said, referring to the hotel that has become known as the Castle on the Lake since its opening 10 years ago by developer John Q. Hammons. Branson's role as a live entertainment tourist attraction began modestly in 1967 when Lloyd Presley set up the first music hall in a metal building on Highway 76 to cater to the sportsmen who fished the lakes. Lloyd and his updated family theater are enjoying their 40th anniversary this year, and he has company. Branson now has about 50 other theaters, many of them state of the art, and has earned the title as America's "live music capital." A decade ago, Branson's Bible Belt reputation ruled. A promotional campaign produced by the Chamber of Commerce that included a couple clicking wine glasses was denounced by the anti-alcohol forces. Today, you can get a cocktail with dinner at most restaurants, a winery has a tasting room just off the strip and another is on the way -- and some of the theaters even offer wine at intermission. Hammons upped the ante on the lodging department when he built his lavish hotel, with a stream running beneath a giant oak in the 10-story atrium, to compete with the mom 'n' pop resorts and chain motels offering "2 for $28" deals. He soon found there was room for upscale in Branson. The latest upgrade, aimed squarely at the baby boomers with time and money on their hands, is Branson Landing, which opened a sleek 243-room Hilton boutique hotel on Valentine's Day. Another 12-story luxury Hilton is on the way, joined to the convention center scheduled to open in August across the street. With Missouri's first Belk Department Store anchoring one end of its pedestrian promenade, and a Bass Pro Shop on the other, visitors to Branson Landing have about 100 shops and restaurants to browse through, including a slew of fancy names such as Ann Taylor, J. Jill, Justice -- Just for Girls and Victoria's Secret. Victoria's Secret in Branson? "It was an exercise getting some of these retailers to consider Branson," said Todd Hiepler, general manager of the Landing. "But when they understood that seven million people were coming with money in their pockets, it wasn't hard for them to crunch the numbers." Hiepler's numbers actually were outdated, according to Lennon, the chamber VP. He provided statistics that said the city's visitation, which had been relatively flat for several years, had risen 8.9 percent last year to more than 7.9 million. Better yet, the visitors included more newcomers (22.6 percent) and were staying longer (4.31 nights), spending more money ($768 per party) and coming from farther away, nearly two-thirds traveled 300 or more miles. Lennon noted that the average adult age of 58.7 years had not changed, but added, "The level of amenities that baby boomers and younger people expect today is proliferating in Branson. We'll still be a great senior destination, but more young people will be coming here." Lennon attributed the good news to several factors: • An increase in the annual marketing budget to $9 million from $3.5 million, thanks to a new 1 percent retail sales tax. Much of the advertising was spent in the Chicago and Dallas areas. • The openings of the Titanic Museum, which is housed inside a giant replica of the ship's bow, and of Dick Clark's American Bandstand Theater, which features vintage performers such as Fabian and Bobby Vee and vintage cars in a museum of 57 57s, as in 57 meticulously restored 1957 models. • Chateau on the Lake's addition of the $6 million Spa Chateau, which has 10 treatment rooms and a 30-foot-high crystal waterfall chandelier in the foyer. • Silver Dollar City's continued expansion of rides and attractions at its theme park and at the adjacent Celebration City amusement park. • And the opening of Branson Landing, which is expected to boost the year-round numbers. Lennon said, "Our figures show that over 60 percent of the visitors in 2006 checked out the Landing." And many of them probably came to check out the fire-and-water show, which I have yet to see. Hiepler, the Landing's GM, explained that workers were tweaking the balky fountain. "We've never had all 15 of the fire shooters going at the same time," he said. "When you're combining fire and water, you're going to have those problems. But it's unfortunate because a lot of people come to see the fountain, and they get upset when it's not working." Tell me about it. Branson now has two distinct tourist areas: The Highway 76 strip and its lineup of souvenir shops, go-cart tracks, quirky museums and glitzy theaters, and Branson Landing, where teenage couples strolled hand-in-hand on the promenade and families toted boxed bundles out of the Build-A-Bear Workshop. Actually, there's a third area if you count the flea markets, collectible shops and local diners spreading out from Main Street in historic downtown Branson, which rises on the hill overlooking the Landing and Lake Taneycomo. The Landing has its own version of Dick's Five and Dime, but the real thing has been in the historic district since 1929. "We've got what you forgot," says the sign. There already was a wealth of outlet malls in Branson, but the Landing adds another shopping dimension. You can buy a $5 ice-cream cone at Haagen-Dazs, five pairs of pink panties for $25 at Victoria's Secret and a Tracker Nitro bass boat for $36,800 at Bass Pro Shops. Why was the boat $36,800? "Because it's on sale -- it was $39,000," salesman Joe Presnall said. "Big boat, big motor, big bucks. We try to guarantee at some point that it will catch at least one fish." By this summer, customers who want to try out a fancy fishing boat will be able to take it for a test run from the marina Bass Pro is building on the waterfront, along with a floating restaurant. Most of the Landing's restaurants overlook the water, including Joe's Crab Shack, Sullivan's Steakhouse and Cantina Laredo, which was garnering raves for its gourmet Mexican fare. The Landing will have a single theater this summer with the opening of Wedding Italiano, which will include an Italian restaurant and a dinner theater showing a version of "Tony n' Tina's Wedding," which has been a hit on Broadway and in several other cities. Alden Grant, chef at the venerable Candlestick Inn, which sits on the bluff opposite the Landing, said many existing owners didn't know what to expect when the new development opened. "But our business has increased 30 percent," Grant said. "And people looking out the windows of the new convention center are going to see one thing -- our neon sign." Not everyone was overly impressed with Branson Landing. "It's a shopping mall," said Melanie, a schoolteacher from Vian, Okla. "We come to Branson every year for this." "This" was the live entertainment that is Branson's calling card, and Melanie and her husband were sitting in second-row seats at the Hughes Brothers Celebrity Theatre on Highway 76 for "SIX," the hottest new show in town. The six Knudsen brothers combined humor, hits and a cappella singing for a high-octane show. They savaged Wayne Newton, did a bawdy Tom Jones, hit all the high notes on the Righteous Brothers' "Unchained Melody" and bopped around in Hawaiian shirts for a Beach Boys medley. Also new this season is "Best of Motown," showing in the same theater. Two of the three male singers are from Detroit and grew up listening to their idols. With shiny gold suits and dance steps borrowed from the Temptations, these three also rely on their soulful voices. No backup band, no lip-syncing. If you loved Marvin Gaye, the Four Tops and Smokey Robinson, you'll love these guys. "No country, no rap, no disco," said Dicki "DJ" Jonez, mopping sweat from his shiny head. "It ain't hip-hop, but it's where hip-hop came from." IF YOU GO BRANSON LANDING • For a complete list of the shops and restaurants, call 888-526-3464, or visit www.bransonlanding.com. • Hilton Promenade Branson Landing: Call 800-445-8667, or visit www.promenadebransonlanding.hilton.com. • Branson Convention Center: Call 417-336-5401, or visit www.bransonconvention.com. LODGING Chateau on the Lake Resort & Spa: Call 417-243-1700, or visit www.chateauonthelake.com. ENTERTAINMENT Hughes Brothers Celebrity Theatre: For information on the shows "SIX" or "Best of Motown," call 800-422-0076, or visit www.hughes-brothers.com . All things Branson: For show schedules and lodging, call the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau at 800-935-1199 or visit www.explorebranson.com. -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Texas TV Program to focus on Branson

By Brandon Cone BDN Staff Writer bcone@bransondailynews.com Texans are going to start getting a closer look at Branson this summer. Lynn Berry, public relations director for the Branson Lakes Area/Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau, announced at the chamber's board of directors meeting Wednesday that beginning at the end of May, Branson will be featured in a weekly segment on "Good Morning Texas," a program which airs on WFAA, a Dallas-based ABC affiliate. The segments will be titled "Surprising Things About Branson" and will be three to five minutes long. Officials said it will focus on a different aspect of Branson each week. "This is a huge opportunity," Berry said. "In our marketing efforts, we have been pushing Dallas, so we hope these segments will bring even more people to Branson." Among the subjects of the segments will be music, fishing, golf, attractions, Silver Dollar City and the ultimate girls weekend. "The attractions spot will run through a whole gamut of things," Berry said. "The fishing and golf spot will air sometime around Father's Day, and the ultimate girls weekend will focus on shopping and entertainment." Berry said a representative of the area will be interviewed on "Good Morning Texas" during each weekly spot. She said "Surprising Things About Branson" came about through ties with the Dallas-based Camelot Communications, a group which the CVB purchases advertising on WFAA through. "They were asking about summer promotions, and Branson came up," Berry said. "It all went from there." "Surprising Things About Branson" will air on WFAA each Thursday through June. -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Wild Goose Chase To Branson

KIMBERLING CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Travelers looking for Ozark Mountain Resort must be disappointed when they pull up to Tish and Lyle Ashley's place. It's a three-bedroom ranch-style home, not a 150-acre vacation spot, and it's on the wrong side of Table Rock Lake. For the past two years, a lot of visitors have pulled travel trailers and boats up the Ashleys' one-way street -- and gotten stuck -- thanks to wayward directions from the computer search engine MapQuest. "We've had them from Nebraska, Wisconsin, Chicago and Minnesota," Tish Ashley said. "I feel sorry for those people who've driven so far and end up on our one-way street in the middle of nowhere." Ozark Mountain Resort is a popular, lakeside condo rental spot in Kimberling City, located in southwest Missouri about 10 miles from Branson. A MapQuest search for the resort places it several miles off the mark, next to the Ashleys' home on a one-way residential street on the opposite side of Table Rock Lake. MapQuest is operated by internet giant America Online. Spokeswoman Melissa Gordon said the company would investigate the situation at Kimberling City. Tish Ashley said some tourists "are pretty unhappy when they end up on our one-way street." "We tell them we've tried to do something about it, but you can't even get ahold of anyone from MapQuest to get it solved," she said Travis Tucker, Kimberling City's public works director, said the city put a "dead end" sign on the Ashleys' street to warn lost travelers. He's also made numerous calls to MapQuest over the past two years. "They said they were going to have some of their engineers look at it, but the problem seems to be continuing," he said. Ashley said it's not just tourists who end up lost. Big trucks trying to make deliveries to the resort have ended up on her street as well. Marie Rasso, general manager at Silver Leaf/Ozark Mountain Resort, said her company used to have a MapQuest link on its Web site, but removed it after reports that it was incorrect. "We've gotten to w -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

School Start Date = Joplin Schools

The bill, initially sponsored by Sen. Jack Goodman, whose district includes the tourist destination of Branson, would prohibit schools from starting 10 days before Labor Day unless the district first holds a public meeting. School boards would have to vote every year to approve the earlier start date. The measure also allows schools to decide not to make up more days missed because of bad weather. Under current law, schools that exceed their scheduled snow days must add up to an additional eight days to make up for missed classes. After that, schools need to make up for only half the lost time. The legislation would drop that requirement to making up six lost days and half the lost time above six days. But days lost because of heat would not be counted toward bad-weather days and would have to be made up. The House and Senate have already passed separate measures that would permit school districts to skip classes canceled because of a January ice storm. Currently House and Senate negotiators are trying to agree on a final version. Lawmakers also approved an amendment that would allow students to enroll in an Internet-based "virtual school" program if their school districts are provisionally accredited or unaccredited for two consecutive years by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The amendment would affect students in 13 school districts. Those students' school districts would be required to pay for the students to enter a virtual school. Their enrollment would not bump others out of the program. Last year, the state created a virtual school program that allows students to take public school courses over the Internet at home. The proposed state budget for next year includes at least $2.6 million for the program. Rep. Tim Flook said the state should offer a choice to parents who would otherwise need to send their children to a school district that is not performing. "If everything around you is failing, what's wrong with giving a parent an opportunity for a virtual public school?" said Flook, R-Liberty. Democratic critics said the Legislature should concentrate on fixing problem districts. "We're going to invest in virtual schools without investing in real schools. This is ridiculous," said Rep. Paul LeVota, D-Independence. Because the House made changes to the Senate bill, senators must agree to the House version or negotiators from both bodies could meet to try to work out their differences. -- School bill is SB64. On the Net: Legislature: http://www.moga.mo.gov -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Raeanne Presley

Raeanne Presley sits down with SBJ contributor Carol S. Harris 4/23/2007 Raeanne Presley, 49, was sworn in April 9 as Branson's first new mayor in 12 years and the first woman to hold the position. Presley's public service includes 10 years on the Branson Board of Aldermen (1985–1995) and six years on the Missouri Tourism Commission (2001–2007), which she chaired for two years. Presley was the first female elected to chair the board of directors for Skaggs Community Health Center and was the founding chairwoman of the Skaggs Foundation, a fund-raising group on which she continues to serve. Presley recently completed two years as chairman of the board for the Springfield-Branson Regional Airport. She is a co-owner of Presley's Country Jubilee in Branson. How does it feel to be Branson's first female mayor? Certainly, I feel a bigger responsibility. I feel a real need to deliver on promises I've made. There are a lot of new things I need to learn at City Hall. … But it is still an honor. How are things the same or different this time around in city government? When I walked door-to-door in a core neighborhood, I was startled at how many people have moved here since the "60 Minutes" boom. How are these people integrated into the Branson community? Are we really thinking about how we are including them in the process of how we think about Branson in the next five to 10 years? You campaigned on the platform of "an open door policy" in city government. Why? What I heard was that people felt shut out of City Hall. It was very hard to understand how the city government and City Council made decisions. If you attended a council meeting, there was very little public discussion. I've heard many comments that there is not a friendliness at City Hall. How do you plan to change that? I (held) an orientation (April 12) called Branson City Government 101 (open to) anyone. I also want to instigate open biweekly council work sessions. That hasn't been done in the recent past. We're also going to mend fences with the county, the Branson schools and our neighbors. What are Branson's Top 3 issues that you want to address? 1. Finances. All of us need to look at the implications of the (tax increment financing). In the short term, I would not favor any additional TIFs. 2. The city's role in Branson's work force. This boom, created in part by the city, has left us with a lack of employees. 3. Establishing our focus. It's time for us to go back to our citizens, our visitors and businesses, and ask them, 'What comes next?' Branson aldermen have narrowly approved a 25-story hotel. Is the city ready for such a structure? I feel that whole issue was handled poorly. It should never have been about one project by one developer in a hurry. If we want to have a discussion about height, we should have a discussion through planning and zoning, and make a decision as a community. The tower was the last straw for a lot of people. I had only one person who said that it was a great idea. People felt like they were really ignored. What are your thoughts on local aviation projects? There are real limitations for expanding M. Graham Clark Airport. I've talked to the guys from Branson Creek for several years. They are always on the edge of getting ready to build. I think it will be difficult to have the number of flights and the pricing that they are proposing. But a runway and a terminal next to Branson is a good thing. What is your take on Branson's gambling debate? First, let me say I am absolutely against gambling. It will still come up. From the gambling industry's standpoint, they would love to have access to our large visitor base. As long as the local economy is strong, it won't be an issue with the citizens in our community. My fear is that if our economy weakens, some in our community will feel that gambling is an easy solution. It's been said affordable housing is an issue. What are your thoughts? There are several issues – housing, transportation, day care. We have a hidden population who are living in hotels and paying a weekly rental. I can't find out how many (local) employees we have and how many we need. We've been just hoping the free market works it out. -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Southwest Missouri Real Estate Schemes

outhwest Missouri leads state in real estate schemes By SBJ Staff 4/25/2007 Real estate schemes are on the rise in Missouri and particularly in the Springfield-Branson area, according to Secretary of State Robin Carnahan. Carnahan is warning Missourians to be wary of real estate investments because of a recent increase in complaints to the Missouri Securities Division, according to a news release. The division has 12 open investigations and ongoing administrative actions regarding schemes occurring across the state. Missouri Commissioner of Securities Matt Kitzi said in the release that the increase in schemes is attributed to the downturn in the housing market and concerns in the subprime lending market. Complaints have been filed about time shares, mortgages, nonexistent commercial properties and fraudulent real estate investments offered and sold by unregistered individuals. Scams have included individuals offering fellow church members a fake opportunity to make a fortune in house flipping, a Springfield couple allegedly selling a 50 percent ownership interest in the same property to six different investors and an unregistered individual enticing a Missouri resident to invest more than $250,000 in nonexistent commercial real estate and spending the investment on personal expenses. "Real estate has been a particularly popular investment in the past several years that attracts many novice investors," Carnahan said in the release. "But with a downturn in the current real estate market, we are beginning to hear more and more about corrupt individuals seeking to cash in by taking advantage of Missouri investors." Carnahan's warning comes on the heels of the FBI's ongoing investigations into Springfield-area mortgage fraud, which officials also say is on the rise. Alleged schemes have involved disproportionately high list prices in some subdivisions and a surge in foreclosures. Carnahan's office offers a toll-free hotline for investors and other individuals to file complaints; the number is (800) 721-7996. -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Hammo ns VS HCW - Springfield Vs. Branson

City issues second downtown proposals request By Matt Wagner Springfield Business Journal Staff 4/24/2007 The city has issued a second, more specific request for proposals to developers who have expressed interest in building a hotel-office complex on 1.7 acres east of the Springfield Exposition Center. Springfield hotelier John Q. Hammons, Branson-based developer Rick Huffman of HCW Evergreen Inc. and Springfield-based accounting firm BKD LLP each received RFPs from the city. All three had previously submitted proposals for the former arena site, but only HCW Evergreen and BKD were still in the running when the second round of requests was issued. Three development firms affiliated with BKD – Atlanta-based Holder Properties, Dallas-based Hunter Properties LLC and Kansas City-based Opus Northwest LLC – also received the most recent RFP, which explicitly seeks a building with at least 100,000 square feet of Class A office space and St. Louis Street frontage. The building should be able to accommodate BKD's corporate headquarters, according to the RFP. BKD has been in Hammons Tower since 1987 and now occupies nearly one-third of the 22-story building just east of the arena site. For more than two years, BKD has been working with Kansas City-based Zimmer Real Estate Services LLC to find land for its new headquarters building. The RFP also includes minimum criteria for the hotel, which should have at least 150 rooms, 10,000 square feet of meeting space and a four-star rating under a nationally recognized flag. Firms willing to purchase all or a portion of the adjacent Jordan Valley Car Park will receive "favorable consideration," according to the RFP. Other developers interested in the project include a three-pronged partnership consisting of Chesterfield-based Gundaker Commercial Group, Springfield developer Steve Stinnett and Wilhoit Properties, also of Springfield. Wilhoit Properties broker Ken Schwab said the project's latest incarnation sparked renewed interest from Gundaker, which opted not to submit a proposal earlier this year. Gundaker is an "experienced office developer" with hotel industry connections, Schwab said. Nixa-based Larino Properties and Pellham-Phillips Architects and Engineers of Springfield also received RFPs. Proposals are due to the city by 3 p.m. May 24. The Springfield Tax Abatement and Tax Increment Financing Commission will meet June 4 to discuss the proposals. See SBJ's April 30 issue for more on the firms interested in developing the downtown site. -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Branson Veteran's Week Connie Stevens Special Guest

A person does not need to be a veteran or a woman to participate in Women Veterans Week in Branson May 14-20, only have a desire to honor the contribution women serving in the military have made to their country, according to organizers of the third annual event. A myriad of activities such a Rise and Shine with the Army All Women Combo Band, a performance by the Dixie Land Jazz Band of the Missouri National Guard, golf tournaments and a banquet featuring veterans advocate, actress and USO show veteran Connie Stevens are just part of the week that honors women veterans. "Because of Women Veterans Week and the way Branson has always welcomed veterans two women veterans' reunions are being held in conjunction with and in cooperation with our event," said Mary Slivka, chairman of the Women's Veterans Committee that is organizing the week's activities. "The U.S Army Women's Foundation Reunion and the National Association of State Women Veterans Coordinators Eighth Annual Conference are joining us – making this our biggest event ever." "Always voluntary, the service, contributions and sacrifices of women veterans have been vital in defending the freedom and way of life enjoyed by all," said Slivka. The Women's Veterans Committee, a subcommittee of the Branson Veterans Task Force, was instrumental in establishing the week first celebrated in 2005 as Women Veterans Week by proclamation of the Mayor of Branson. "In this city that honors veterans every day, it is important to recognize the 1.2 million American women have served in the armed forces, with more than 35,000 of them from Missouri," said Slivka who herself is a veteran. "Since the American Revolution when women served on the battlefield as nurses, water bearers, cooks, laundresses and saboteurs, thousands of women paid the ultimate sacrifice by giving their lives while serving in the armed forces." Motion picture, television and Broadway star, recording artist, business professional, filmmaker and humanitarian, Stevens not only will be the guest speaker at the banquet at the White House Theatre on May 19, but also will be attending many of the week's activities. Among those events are a miniature golf tournament at Grand Country Square and visits to the Titanic and America's Presidents museums. A scenic guided motorcoach tour of the Ozarks will include a visit to the College of the Ozarks and Stone Hill Winery. The group will attend command performances of the Branson Brothers with Doug Gabriel and The Dalena Ditto County Variety Show along with Justin Flom's Magic Parlor. Other events include daily Hospitality and Welcome Center at the host hotel, the Settle Inn, a Meet and Greet Reception and a Rise and Shine with the Army All Women Combo Band. An All About You exposition will feature information, beauty products, books and much more. "Because of her work for veterans Ms. Stevens has been honored by the Vietnam Veterans Association of America and has received The Decoration for Distinguished Civilian Service from the United States Armed Forces, the highest honor that can be given to a civilian. Many will remember her as having toured with Bob Hope around the world with the USO, at every major base, numerous hospitals and military venues. She has given of her time whenever needed from Korea to Vietnam to the Persian Gulf. She is one of Veterans Across America's all time favorites," Slivka said. As a film maker, Stevens produced and directed "A Healing," an award-winning feature film documentary dedicated to the women, and the young warriors they attended to, who served in the U.S./Vietnam conflict. "A Healing" follows a three-week reunion journey through Vietnam of 100 women in 1995, who served in this conflict three decades ago. Proceeds from the film are given to several veterans' charities http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Disney In Branson

Disney rumor reignited Newton County officials told of possible theme park plans. Kathryn Buckstaff News-Leader A request for road improvements for a $1.1 billion theme park in Newton County has led to new speculation about the Walt Disney Co.'s interest in southwest Missouri. Rumors that a Disney attraction was coming to Branson were rampant in the mid-1990s. Now, Newton County Commissioners are investigating whether Disney could be linked to a theme park proposal made earlier this month. Jerry Carter, Newton County Presiding Commissioner, said the notion arose after Todd Marshall, who said he represented a Springfield company called ARM Risk, attended the April 12 commissioners' meeting. Carter asked about changes on county roads leading to the location the company is considering for a theme park. A list of specifications Marshall gave the commissioners included first-phase construction costs of $1.1 billion, land purchases of 1,000 acres with the park taking 100 acres, six hotels, 95 shops, 27 rides, 12 stages and 18 restaurants. "We want to be cautious and careful," Carter said. "We live in an opportunistic world and sometimes things come along we can't even conceive of." A possible Disney connection was raised when commissioners checked the company owners. On a form called "Registration of Fictitious Name" filed with the Missouri Secretary of State's office in March for ARM Risk, three owners are listed. Corporations routinely file such forms. The owners are Michael Hill of Wilmington, Del.; Robert Brown, who lists his address as 500 South Buena Vista St., Burbank, Calif.; and Jason Johnson, who lists his address as Corporate Office, Lake Buena Vista, Fla. On the Internet, commissioners found that the Burbank address is corporate headquarters of the Walt Disney Co. Lake Buena Vista, Fla., is headquarters of Walt Disney World Resort. Officials at Disney headquarters in Burbank said the company would not comment on the matter. The secretary of state's office has only an administrative role in filing business registrations, said communications assistant Ryan Hobart. When someone signs the registration, he or she is legally bound to give correct information, Hobart said. ARM Risk's address is listed as 1926 S. Glenstone Ave., Suite 353, Springfield, on the registration. Todd Marshall could not be reached for comment. No phone listing could be obtained for ARM Risk. Carter, who is 71, is a Newton County native. He said that such a project would forever change the county. The area where the company is seeking to buy land is mostly small acreage and some farms of 60 to 100 acres, Carter said. It is in the southwest quadrant of the junction of U.S. 71 and Interstate 44. Some residents would be interested in the project, and some wouldn't, he predicted. "We're right between two of the largest growth areas in southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas, so we are becoming accustomed to shock here," Carter said. Just to the south is the Bentonville area and to the north is Joplin. "It'll never be what it used to be." In Branson, Herschend Family Entertainment spokes- woman Lisa Rau said they had not heard of the plans. The company owns the Silver Dollar City and Celebration City theme parks and other attractions. Ross Summers, director of the Branson Lakes/Area Chamber of Commerce, said he also had heard of no such plans by Disney. "These Disney rumors have floated around here for as long as I can remember," Summers said. Developer Glenn Patch heard lots of Disney rumors after he purchased 7,000 acres of land just south of Hollister in the early '90s. His land is now the site of two golf courses, upscale homes and a commercial airport in development. "When I was first coming here, I thought about painting a pair of black ears on my plane just for the fun of it," Patch said.

Missouri schools taken over by state

2006 Schools in School Improvement and Restructuring Schools Identified for School Improvement According to federal requirements, the following buildings are in "school improvement" because they did not achieve Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for two consecutive years (2004-05 and 2005-06) in either communication arts or math.  They may be required to offer students the option to transfer to other, higher-performing buildings. 049142    CARTHAGE R-IX    4060    FAIRVIEW ELEM. 010093    COLUMBIA 93    4080    EUGENE FIELD ELEM. 096088    HAZELWOOD    4340    ARROWPOINT ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    4060    ATTUCKS ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    4450    C. A. FRANKLIN ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    4700    JAMES ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    4770    NORTH ROCK CREEK/KORTE ACADEMY 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    4800    SANFORD B. LADD ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    5220    PINKERTON ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    5440    B. BANNEKER ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    5700    WHITTIER ELEM. 096109    NORMANDY    4145    LUCAS CROSSING ELEM. COMPLEX 096119    SPECL. SCH. DST. ST. LOUIS CO.    4069    LITZSINGER 039141    SPRINGFIELD R-XII    3140    REED MIDDLE 036136    ST. CLAIR R-XIII    4040    EDGAR MURRAY ELEM. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    3070    CARR LANE VPA MIDDLE 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    3260    LONG MIDDLE COMMUNITY ED. CTR. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    4360    CLAY ELEM. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    5020    JEFFERSON ELEM. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    5260    MANN ELEM. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    5600    OAK HILL ELEM. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    5800    SHENANDOAH ELEM. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    5970    WOERNER ELEM. 109003    WARREN CO. R-III    4020    DANIEL BOONE ELEM. Schools in School Improvement, Second Year The following buildings are among the group of schools originally targeted for school improvement in 2005; they are in their second year of school improvement.  These schools may be required to offer the transfer option supplemental educational services (SES).  Those with an asterisk must offer SES; those not starred may choose to offer SES but are not required to do so this year as they made AYP in 2005-2006. 2006    104042    GALENA R-II    1050    GALENA HIGH 2006    097127    GILLIAM C-4                           4020    GILLIAM ELEM. 2006    048074    GRANDVIEW C-4    5020    MARTIN CITY ELEM. 2006    048078    KANSAS CITY 33                    *    4860    GEORGE B. LONGAN ELEM. 2006    035092    MALDEN R-I                            *     4020    MALDEN ELEM. 2006    068072    MONITEAU CO. R-V    4020    LATHAM ELEM. 2006    100061    SCOTT CO. R-IV    3000    SCOTT CO. MIDDLE 2006    115115    ST. LOUIS CITY                      *    4890    HICKEY ELEM. 2006    115115    ST. LOUIS CITY                      *    6930    CONFLUENCE ACADEMIES Schools in School Improvement, Third Year The following buildings are among the group of schools originally targeted for "school improvement" in 2004; they are in their third year of "school improvement."  These schools may be required to offer the transfer option and also are required to provide supplemental educational services (SES).   078012    CARUTHERSVILLE 18    4060    CARUTHERSVILLE ELEM. 111087    CLEARWATER R-I    3000    CLEARWATER MIDDLE   091092    DONIPHAN R-I    3000    DONIPHAN MIDDLE 057002    ELSBERRY R-II    3000    IDA CANNON MIDDLE 096089    FERGUSON-FLORISSANT R-II    4010    AIRPORT ELEM. 096089    FERGUSON-FLORISSANT R-II    4320    WALNUT GROVE ELEM. 078002    HAYTI R-II    4040    MATHIS ELEM. 096088    HAZELWOOD    4020    KEEVEN ELEM. 096088    HAZELWOOD    4150    GRANNEMANN ELEM. 096088    HAZELWOOD    4250    TOWNSEND ELEM. 096088    HAZELWOOD    4260    TWILLMAN ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    3030    CENTRAL MIDDLE 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    3060    CLARKE ACE MIDDLE 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    3080    K C MIDDLE SCHOOL OF THE ARTS 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    4180    BRYANT ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    4310    TRAILWOODS ENVIRONMENTAL ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    4330    EAST ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    4350    FOREIGN LANGUAGE ACADEMY 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    5020    GEORGE MELCHER ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    5250    RICHARDSON ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    5500    SWINNEY/VOLKER ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    5580    TROOST ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    5630    PRIMITIVO GARCIA ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    5650    MARY HARMON WEEKS ELEM. 035102    KENNETT 39    4080    SOUTH ELEM. 005128    MONETT R-I    4020    MONETT ELEM. 096109    NORMANDY    4100    JEFFERSON ELEM. 005124    PURDY R-II    3000    PURDY MIDDLE 096110    RITENOUR    3000    HOECH MIDDLE 096110    RITENOUR    3050    RITENOUR MIDDLE 096110    RITENOUR    4120    KRATZ ELEM. 096111    RIVERVIEW GARDENS    4020    DANFORTH ELEM. 096111    RIVERVIEW GARDENS    4080    HIGHLAND ELEM. 096111    RIVERVIEW GARDENS    5040    MEADOWS ELEM. 035098    SENATH-HORNERSVILLE C-8    3000    HORNERSVILLE MIDDLE 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    3050    BUSCH/ACADEMIC-ATHLETIC ACAD. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    3390    COMPTON-DREW ILC MIDDLE 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    4000    ADAMS ELEM. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    4250    AMES VISUAL/PERF. ARTS 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    4400    COLE ELEM. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    4760    GUNDLACH ELEM. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    5340    MASON ELEM. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    5560    MONROE ELEM. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    6920    ETHEL HEDGEMAN LYLE ACADEMY 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    6925    ST. LOUIS CHARTER ACADEMIES 096115    WELLSTON    3000    BISHOP MIDDLE 092089    WENTZVILLE R-IV    4030    HERITAGE INTERMEDIATE 009080    WOODLAND R-IV    4040    WOODLAND ELEM. Schools in School Improvement, Fourth Year Missouri has no schools in their fourth year of "school improvement" in 06-07. Schools in School Improvement, Fifth Year The following buildings are among the group of schools originally targeted for "school improvement" in 2002; they are in their fifth year of "school improvement."  These schools may be required to offer the transfer option and also are required to provide supplemental educational services (SES). 067061    CHARLESTON R-I    4040    WARREN E. HEARNES ELEM. 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    5660    PHYLLIS WHEATLEY ELEM. 060077    MCDONALD CO. R-I    4040    NOEL ELEM. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    4480    DUNBAR AND BR. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    4660    FROEBEL ELEM. Schools in Corrective Action The following buildings have not met AYP for five consecutive years and must be targeted for "corrective action," according to federal requirements.  Districts with schools in "corrective action" must continue to offer the transfer option if appropriate, provide supplemental educational services (SES) and take at least one of the following corrective actions: •    Provide for all staff scientifically research-based professional development; •    Institute a new curriculum grounded in scientifically based research; •    Extend the length of the school year or school day; •    Replace school staff relevant to not making adequate progress; •    Significantly decrease management authority at the school; •    Appoint outside experts to advise the school.     078002    HAYTI R-II    4020    WALLACE ELEM. 096104    JENNINGS    2050    JENNINGS JR. HIGH 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    3000    J. A. ROGERS MIDDLE 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    3040    M. L. KING MIDDLE 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    3120    CLIFFORD H. NOWLIN MIDDLE 048078    KANSAS CITY 33    3160    WESTPORT MIDDLE 096111    RIVERVIEW GARDENS    3000    R. G. CENTRAL MIDDLE 096111    RIVERVIEW GARDENS    4040    WESTVIEW MIDDLE 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    3020    BLEWETT MIDDLE 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    3110    BUNCHE INTERNATIONAL STUDIES 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    3140    FANNING MIDDLE COMMUNITY ED. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    3210    HUMBOLDT MIDDLE 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    3240    LANGSTON MIDDLE 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    3280    L'OUVERTURE MIDDLE 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    3400    STEVENS MIDDLE COMMUNITY ED. 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    3910    LIFT FOR LIFE ACADEMY 115115    ST. LOUIS CITY    6915    ST. LOUIS CHARTER SCH. -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Fwd: Branson Airport Renderings

The Branson Airport is on its way. A TDD district and a $65 million construction contract was awarded to McAnach construction.