Branson Area Festival of Lights 2008 Options

BAFOL options explored (As Published June 28th Branson Daily News ) Link By Brandon Cone BDN Staff Writer bcone@bransondailynews.com Officials with the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce are looking for new ways to keep the Branson Area Festival of Lights alive in 2007. "Our options are becoming narrower and narrower as we head toward the season, but we don't want to have nothing," said Ross Summers, chamber president and CEO, at a chamber board of directors meeting Wednesday. Summers announced in March that the BAFOL committee would be looking for a new location for the Christmas lights 2.5-mile drive-through due to traffic and safety concerns and costs to put on the extended display at its traditional home at Branson Hills Parkway. In 2005, the drive-through took a one-year hiatus due to construction on the parkway. Chamber officials are opposed to canceling BAFOL again because they want to keep "the welcoming feeling" the display gives. "There's that first impression you get when arriving from the north if that segment is lit and welcoming you to an Ozark Mountain Christmas and Branson Area Festival of Lights," said Brad Thomas, chamber board president. "It's much different than two years ago when that section was dark." Summers said there are still some viable options for bringing the display back for an eleventh time since it was started in 1995. "We have discussed putting it up as a shortened version behind Target and Home Depot, beginning where we usually do and running it up to the corner there (at Branson Hills Parkway,)" Summers said. "It would be something where we would try to cram as many lights in there as we could. "We would not charge for that, but it would be a donation kind of thing. That's one of the options we've got, and we've got a couple other options we're looking at also." -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Romney's Religion Shouldn't Matter But it Does

Interesting commentary on Mitt Romney, currently Branson Missouri's most supported candidate. Romney's religion shouldn't matter — but it does     By Charles C. Haynes   Where Mitt Romney goes to church doesn't disqualify him for public office: Article VI of the U.S. Constitution famously declares that "no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States." But when the former Massachusetts governor declared his candidacy for president Feb. 13, news coverage focused heavily on one issue: Romney's Mormon faith. Officially we have no religious test, but unofficially, religious affiliation (or lack thereof) can determine the outcome of elections. How big is Romney's religion problem? In a Los Angeles Times/Bloomberg survey last year, a remarkable 37 percent of Americans said they would not vote for a Mormon presidential candidate. The poll numbers probably don't come as a shock to the Mormons themselves. After all, Mormons (members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) come out of a history of religious persecution. Shortly after their founder, Joseph Smith, announced his candidacy for president in 1844, he was killed by a mob. Back then the most contentious issue was polygamy, a practice disavowed by the LDS Church in 1890. But today, Romney stills faces ignorance and confusion about his faith — fueled in part by the "Mormon" label put on characters in HBO's series "Big Love" and the trial of polygamist leader Warren Jeffs. Only last month, a Republican activist in South Carolina pressed Romney to answer questions about polygamy. But Romney's greater challenge may be to overcome the prejudices of people who actually do know what Mormons believe — and don't like it. Many Christians, especially evangelicals, don't accept the LDS Church as part of the Christian tradition. After years of being taught that Mormonism is heretical (and a cult), many conservative Christians will have a hard time getting beyond Romney's religion. Moreover, some of Romney's critics have raised the issue of religious authority: Because the president of the LDS Church is a living prophet, who would be in charge under a President Romney? This concern resembles the familiar anti-Catholic canard from the 19th century that a Catholic elected official would be controlled by the Vatican. Mormons, like everybody else in America, enjoy full religious freedom under the First Amendment. But constitutional protection doesn't ensure acceptance in the public square. American Jews suffered decades of social discrimination (and anti-Semitic acts remain the No. 1 religious hate crime in the United States today). American Catholics were attacked as members of a dangerous cult for much of our history and were the target of nativist campaigns to limit Catholic citizenship and influence. Against this backdrop of prejudice, the few candidates for president outside the Protestant mainstream have mostly tried to say as little as possible about their religion. Attacked as an unbeliever during his 1800 campaign for president, Thomas Jefferson refused to be drawn into a debate on his religious views. In the run-up to the 1908 election, William Howard Taft kept mum about his Unitarian convictions in the face of intense pressure to declare his views on the divinity of Christ. John F. Kennedy, however, felt compelled to confront the "religion issue" head-on during his 1960 presidential campaign. In his now-famous address to the Houston Ministerial Association, Kennedy declared: "I am not the Catholic candidate for president. I am the Democratic Party's candidate for president who happens also to be a Catholic. I do not speak for my church on public matters — and the church does not speak for me." Of course, what worked for Kennedy may not work for Romney, especially since the Christian right isn't looking for a president who believes as Kennedy did "in an America where the separation of church and state is absolute." But political pundits generally agree: Given the poll numbers, Romney has little choice but to give a public address about the relationship of faith and politics in his life. It won't be easy. Kennedy, after all, could win votes by distancing himself from his church — and still count on a significant Roman Catholic vote (he won 71 percent of Catholics and only 32 percent of non-Catholics). In contrast, Romney faces Republican primary voters who are, in fact, looking for a candidate who wears his personal faith on his political sleeve. And there is no "Mormon base" since LDS members make up less than 2 percent of the U.S. population. Nevertheless, if he declares that he doesn't take orders from Salt Lake — and emphasizes his conservative position on social issues — Romney has a good shot at winning over many evangelicals. Ironically, the very evidence that demonstrates his independence from the LDS Church (his now-abandoned 1994 liberal positions on gay rights and abortion were contrary to LDS positions) may well be used against him as he attempts to position himself as a born-again social conservative. It's hard to believe that anyone seriously thinks Romney would be a puppet of the prophet in Salt Lake City any more than Kennedy was a mouthpiece for the pope in Rome. Nothing in his political career supports that fear. And the 15 Mormon members of Congress hardly march in lockstep with the church. If Mormon leaders are telling Republican Sen. Orrin Hatch and Democratic Sen. Harry Reid how to vote, they must be sending mixed signals. There's plenty to debate in Romney's positions on public policy without getting distracted by the non-issue of where he goes to church. Unfortunately, prejudice against Mormons leaves Romney little choice.   Echoing JFK, Romney must now persuade voters that his values are shaped by faith, but his policies aren't dictated by church. Charles C. Haynes is senior scholar at the First Amendment Center, 1101 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, Va. 22209. Web: firstamendmentcenter.org. E-mail: chaynes@freedomforum.org.

Polish and Russian Immigrants Arrested for Branson Human Smuggling Ring (2005 Archive)

Four Russian nationals, Polish national indicted for visa fraud KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Four Russian nationals and a Polish national, who were involved with a Branson, Mo., company that provides workers to area hotels, have been indicted by a federal grand jury today for submitting false statements to obtain foreign labor visas for hundreds of employees. Today's indictments were announced by Bradley J. Schlozman, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri. The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the Department of Labor's Office of Inspector General. Serguei Choukline, also known as Anton Kim, 48, and his wife, Irina Choukline, 44, both of whom were born in Russia and now reside in Springfield, Mo., Anna Bauer, 28, who was born in Russia and resides in Falls Church, Va., Irina Lemetyuynen, 38, who was born in Russia and resides in Springfield, and Angnieszka Koblenc, 31, who was born in Poland and resides in Springfield, were charged in a 17-count second superseding indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City on Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2006. Serguei Choukline was a director and Irina Choukline was the secretary of Midwest Hotel Management Corp., 1316 W. Hwy. 76 in Branson, Mo. Bauer, Lemetyuynen and Koblenc were employees of Midwest. The Chouklines, Lemetyuynen and Koblenc were arrested yesterday and had their initial appearance in federal court in Springfield. Bauer was arrested and appeared in federal court in Virginia. Lemetyuynen and Koblenc remain in federal custody pending a detention hearing on Dec. 1. Irina Choukline was released on a $25,000 bond and Serguei Choukline was continued on his earlier $50,000 bond. Bauer was also released on bond. This second superseding indictment replaces an earlier indictment by adding Irina Choukline, Bauer, Lemetyuynen and Koblenc as co-defendants and omitting Monica A. Lopez, 25, a citizen of Mexico residing in the Branson area, who pleaded guilty the charge of aiding and abetting visa fraud that was contained in a Feb. 8, 2006, superseding indictment. Lopez was director of human resources for Midwest. The federal indictment, Schlozman explained, involves the use of temporary worker visas. The temporary worker program is designed to allow foreign workers to provide labor for certain industries after it has been determined that there is a legitimate need for the work and that there are an insufficient number of citizens or other legal aliens to provide the labor. Count One of the federal indictment alleges that each of the co-defendants participated in a conspiracy to make false statements and to commit mail fraud, visa fraud and alien inducement from May 1, 2002 to November 2006 in Branson and Springfield. Midwest allegedly submitted 15 foreign labor visa applications containing numerous false statements to obtain approximately 300 foreign labor visas, including visas for Lopez, Lemetyuynen and Koblenc. Through the use of a fraudulently obtained foreign labor workforce, the indictment says Midwest received approximately $1.5 million in ill-gotten gains. The false statements contained in these visa applications, the indictment alleges, include naming fictitious corporate officers, providing fraudulent reference letters, manufacturing fraudulent employment interviews of U.S. citizens, improperly listing places of employment, and the unauthorized use of an address supplied by Midwest Hotel Management as their corporate office. Serguei Choukline, using the alias Anton Kim, allegedly was the architect of the overall scheme who gathered, executed and submitted the bulk of the documents on behalf of Midwest. Irina Choukline allegedly provided, submitted, and purportedly translated fraudulent supporting documentation for visa applications submitted by Midwest on behalf of Lemetyuynen, Koblenc and others. She also had payroll responsibilities and paid the bills of Midwest. Bauer was the original “day to day” face of Midwest with regard to the recruiting, placement and transportation of seasonal workers, the indictment says, and also had payroll responsibilities. Count Two of the federal indictment alleges that the Chouklines and Lemetyuynen, aiding and abetting each other, made false statements to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services concerning Lemetyuynen's residence and employment status on Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, on Oct. 4, 2002. Count Three of the federal indictment alleges that the Chouklines and Lemetyuynen aided and abetted each other to commit mail fraud on Oct. 4, 2002 by having a fraudulently obtained visa delivered to Lemetyuynen's employer by U.S. mail. Count Four of the federal indictment alleges that the Chouklines and Lemetyuynen aided and abetted each other to commit visa fraud on Oct. 4, 2002 by causing an I-129 Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker to be filed for Lemetyuynen with a visa subsequently received by means of false representations. Count Five of the federal indictment alleges that the Chouklines and Lemetyuynen aided and abetted each other in making false statements on Aug. 23, 2004 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services concerning a visa application for Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker and Permanent Resident Status in the United States. Count Six of the federal indictment alleges that the Chouklines and Lemetyuynen aided and abetted each other to commit mail fraud on Aug. 23, 2004 by having a fraudulently obtained visa delivered by U.S. mail. Count Seven of the federal indictment alleges that the Chouklines and Lemetyuynen aided and abetted each other to commit visa fraud on Aug. 31, 2005 by causing an I-140 Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, I-485 Application to Register Permanent Resident or Adjust Status, and G-325 Biographical Sheet to be filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Count Eight of the federal indictment alleges that the Chouklines and Koblenc, aiding and abetting each other, made false statements to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services concerning Koblenc's residence and employment status on Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, on May 20, 2004. Count Nine of the federal indictment alleges that the Chouklines and Koblenc aided and abetted each other to commit mail fraud on May 20, 2004 by having a fraudulently obtained visa delivered to Koblenc's employer by U.S. mail. Count Ten of the federal indictment alleges that the Chouklines and Koblenc aided and abetted each other to commit visa fraud on May 20, 2004 by causing an I-129 Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker to be filed for Koblenc with a visa subsequently received by means of false representations. Count Eleven of the federal indictment alleges that the Chouklines and Koblenc aided and abetted each other in making false statements on March 30, 2005 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services concerning a visa application for Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker and Permanent Resident Status in the United States. Count Twelve of the federal indictment alleges that the Chouklines and Koblenc aided and abetted each other to commit mail fraud on March 30, 2005 by having a fraudulently obtained visa delivered by U.S. mail. Count Thirteen of the federal indictment alleges that the Chouklines and Koblenc aided and abetted each other to commit visa fraud on March 30, 2005 by causing an I-140 Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, I-485 Application to Register Permanent Resident or Adjust Status, and G-325 Biographical Sheet to be filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Counts Fourteen, Fifteen and Sixteen of the federal indictment allege that, on three separate instances between Oct. 2, 2002, and Feb. 10, 2005, Serguei Choukline induced an illegal alien to enter and reside in the United States. Count Seventeen of the federal indictment is a forfeiture count, which would require the Chouklines to forfeit to the government any property used to commit the alleged offenses, including residential property located at 3634 W. Suzanne Place in Springfield, Mo. Schlozman cautioned that the charges contained in the indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David A. Barnes, Western District of Missouri. -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Branson Kyaking Club

Full moon tour illuminates kayaking Tour is the inaugural moonlight event for Ozark Mountain Rowing and Kayaking Club. Members of the Ozark Mountain Rowing and Kayaking Club cruise Table Rock Lake. The club will host a full moon tour of Table Rock on Saturday. Ozark Mountain Rowing and Kayaking Club Kathleen O'Dell News-Leader The moon will be full Saturday over Table Rock Lake, the perfect time for an evening cruise scheduled near Table Rock State Park. Just don't forget the paddles. This cruise is by kayak. Members of the new Ozark Mountain Rowing and Kayaking Club organized the free outing to get their kayak "fix" and to expose others to the sport, said Branson lawyer and kayaker Eric Farris. "When you get that full moon on the lake, apart from it being just beautiful, it's safe," Farris said. "We don't have to worry about boat traffic." While the lake isn't totally flat due to boat traffic, he said, "that's part of the adventure." The two-hour cruise will depart from the Dale Avenue boat ramp, circle two small islands and return to the launch ramp. Farris will serve as lead kayak and another member will be the "sweep" — the last vessel in the cruise to make sure everyone returns safely. Participants can bring their own kayak or reserve one from a lake marina or from one of the two club members/outfitters. They have sit-on and sit-in styles, and one- to three-person kayaks. The club has sponsored short cruises on Lake Taneycomo, Bull Shoals and Table Rock lakes every other week for about two months, attracting 20 to 40 participants each time. Farris and Branson dentist Richard Tallon organized the club because they were always looking for companions on their kayak outings. Farris said it's the perfect water sport for someone who likes the lake but doesn't have the time or inclination to own a boat. "Kayaking is an easy introductory way to get into the lake," he said. Farris and Tallon were pleased but not surprised when their first meeting drew about 30 people with beginner to advanced skills. Kayaking/rafting has led growth in participation sports over the last five years, according to studies by the National Sporting Goods Association. Of 39 sports and recreational activities surveyed in 2000 and 2005, the NSGA Web site reports that kayaking/rafting grew 141 percent, from 3.1 million participants to 7.6 million. Kayaker Larry Thompson, who owns Galloway Creek Outfitters in Springfield, said he and industry experts believe the numbers will continue to grow because people are using kayaks in other pursuits — fishing, (ocean) surf kayaking, kayak racing and touring, as well as traditional whitewater trips. "Rowing" is part of the club name because Tallon and other members are also avid scullers. The club recently acquired eight, four- and eight-person sculls, or oar-powered racing boats, and sponsored a sculling seminar by the Wichita State rowing coach. The club hopes to organize the 2008 Missouri Regatta with rowing and kayak races on the Branson-area lakes. Saturday's cruise is the club's first organized moonlight event, Farris said. Future trips may include a Branson-to-Rockaway Beach paddle, a fall leaves tour and possibly a waterway out of the area. "We're open to the public, even a tourist visiting Branson," Farris said. "People in love with kayaking are no different than people who love playing golf. When they travel, they're going to find a golf course. If you have an interest in getting in the water, come out and go with us on one of our trips." http://www.news-leader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070628/SPECIALS01/706280370 -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Sparta City Hall

634-3992 -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Gay Love Affair - As the World Turns - topic in Branson

In the post "The boy from Branson" a young blogger speaks about the "As the World Turns" filming in Branson. The filming was subsidized with Tourism Tax Funds as a giveaway after the filming commitment was made.

Lake Area Developer Pleads Guilty on Tax Charges Related to Hiring Illegal Aliens

Lake-area developer who hired undocumented workers pleads guilty to 14 tax-related charges Lebanon, Mo. — Michael G. Schlup, the developer of luxury condominiums at the Lake of the Ozarks, today pleaded guilty to 14 criminal charges that he failed to withhold taxes from his construction workers (many of whom were undocumented workers) or remit those payroll taxes and file the appropriate return with the state of Missouri. Attorney General Jay Nixon and Camden County Prosecuting Attorney Jim Icenogle brought the charges in April 2006 against Schlup , who is from Leawood, Kan. Schlup's businesses, Schlup Investments Inc. and Plaza Gardens on the Lake Inc. were involved in the construction of the Plaza Gardens on the Lake condominium complex located near Sunrise Beach. "This prosecution and the plea that resulted from it should send a strong message that we won't tolerate this type of conduct, motivated by greed, that allows unscrupulous employers to gain an advantage over those businesses that play by the rules," Nixon said. Schlup is scheduled to be sentenced Oct 17, 2007. Under the terms of the plea, the state is recommending that Schlup receive concurrent sentences of five years in prison on each of the fourteen counts, be ordered to pay the maximum fine on each count totaling $140,000 and be ordered to pay $24,873.36 in costs. In addition, Schlup is required to pay all applicable state and federal taxes and penalties prior to sentencing. If those taxes and penalties are paid, the state will recommend that execution of the prison term be suspended. Schlup would also be barred from conducting business in the state of Missouri after he completes his current projects. Nixon's office began its investigation after learning of reports of one worker death and several serious worker injuries at the Plaza Gardens construction site. Nixon said his office had reason to believe that as many as 30 undocumented workers may have been working at the site at any one time. The charges alleged Schlup paid his workers in cash and deducted no withholdings from the wages. Employees at the site worked 70 hours a week and the undocumented workers were paid approximately $8 an hour.

Presley's Celebrate 40 years in Branson

Branson, MO – Presleys' Country Jubilee is turning 40! June 30, 2007 marks the anniversary of the show's opening in 1967 in the first theater on Branson's now famous Strip. A special Birthday Celebration Show will be held at 8p.m., Saturday, June 30th followed by an outdoor Birthday Party hosted by the cast at Presleys' Country Jubilee theater, 2920 76 Country Blvd. For more information and to reserve tickets, visit www.presleys.com or call (417) 334-4874. Fans both old and new can experience a season-long show celebration packed with country favorites, today's country hits, southern gospel music and hilarious comedy. After four decades in the "Live Music Capital", Presleys' remains one of the top-rated shows in Branson and continues to receive numerous awards and accolades from fans and the media each year. In 2006, Springfield News-Leader readers named Presleys' the "Best Music Show in Branson". The show stars four generations of Presleys including three of the show's original cast members: Lloyd Presley and his sons Gary and Steve, who are also co-producers of the show. Gary's sons Scott, Greg and Eric; and Steve's son John, and daughter Sarah make up the third generation of performing family members. Scott's daughter, 12-year-old Lauren, is the first of the 4th generation to join the cast on stage. Supporting cast members include up-and-coming talent sensations and top-notch entertainers from across the country, who round out the show's non-stop music and comedy. This multi-talented cast has been the subject of countless television, newspaper, magazine and radio interviews. They've been profiled on "Good Morning America," "The Today Show," "60 Minutes," and they even performed on the "Live! With Regis & Kathie Lee" television show. For their contributions to Branson's musical heritage, the Presleys were featured twice on Paul Harvey's "Rest of the Story." The family's long history of community service has earned their recognition as Branson's First Family of Entertainment. In April of 2007 Steve's wife Raeanne Presley was elected Mayor of Branson and is the first woman to ever receive the honor. Presleys' recipe for success helped make Branson famous by entertaining millions of visitors over the past 40 years. A new production each season makes Presleys' one of Branson's most popular and talked about shows year after year. The ever-popular "Herkimer," Gary Presley's smarter-than-he-looks hillbilly character is up to some new tricks in 2007. Son Eric Presley who plays 'Cecil,' a mischievous comedian who loves to entertain audiences of all ages with his physical high jinks, joins his dad on stage for some outrageous side-splitting comedy that tickles the funny bone long after the show is over. Each fun-filled nightly performance of Presleys' Country Jubilee features 3rd generation family members Scott, on guitar; Greg, on harmonica and percussion; John, on piano; and Sarah on fiddle and saxophone. These talented young performers bring to life the enduring music of their grandfather's generation and today's music with spark and sizzle. Lloyd Presley, who will turn 83 years old on August 30th, wows audiences every night and is a great inspiration to senior citizens everywhere with his high-energy performances of George Jones's "I Don't Need Your Rockin' Chair." Today's audiences see the Presleys' show in a state-of-the-art theater with full video production capabilities all from the comfort of new red leather premium seats. Historians and long-time fans remember the family's early 1960s shows in local Ozarks caves. Highway 76 was but a two-lane country road back in 1967 when Lloyd and his wife Bessie Mae, and Gary and his wife Pat built Branson's first music theater on what was to become the world-famous Branson Strip. Back then, audiences saw the Presley family in a much simpler production than they do today, but the music was great and the comedy was hilarious. Today's audiences come back year after year because the music's still great and the comedy better than ever and the warm welcome always makes them feel like family. Today, the original folding canvas theater seats are long gone, but some things haven't changed at all. It's still a family business with nine family members on stage and eight others working hard behind the scenes to make sure the show goes off without a hitch, and to ensure that every guest's experience is a pleasant one. Presleys' Country Jubilee may be turning 40 this year, but like other Baby Boomers, they aren't getting older, they're just getting better! For tickets and information, please visit www.presleys.com or call (417) 334-4874. -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Children's Theatre Workshop - Branson Arts Council

The Branson Arts Council has space available for youth to participate in the Children's Theatre Wrokshop starting July 9, 2007. This is a week long experience of theatre classes, teaching you how to act, speak, produce a play and all the things "thespians" need to know. All classes will be held at the K-Life Taney Cunty building (old Branson Elementary school), 601 S. Fifth Street. You pick the week you want to attend, July 9-13th, 9 am to noon for ages 12 and up. July 9-13th or July 16-20th, 1 pm to 3:30 pm for ages 6-11. Call 336-4255 for registration forms. Requirements are that the child or family be a member of the Branson Arts Council. (Student 1-year membership is $10). Each child will receive a t-shirt. There will be a public performance of the play the children have learned on each Friday night at 7 pm of the week they attend. Admission to these performances is free and open to all family, friends and the public. Phone 336-4255 ASAP. Bonnie Herrmann info@bransonartscouncil.org Bonnie Herrmann 417-336-4255 bransonartscouncil.org 201 North Compton Dr. Branson, MO   65616 -

Body Found in Lake Taneycomo - Branson

Water patrol recovers body of Branson man from Lake Taneycomo © 2007, Springfield News-Leader At 7:25 this morning, the Missouri Water Patrol recovered the body of a Branson man who fell off a pontoon boat on Lake Taneycomo near Rockaway Beach. Casey Waun, 26, was moving around the boat Saturday night when he fell off, was struck by the propeller and did not resurface, the patrol said. The preliminary investigation revealed alcohol was a contributing factor in the accident, a patrol report said.

Branson Hilton Hires New Executive Chef

Executive chef named for Hilton facilities in Branson Published Springfield News-Leader 6/25/07 Branson - Hiltons of Branson has named Nathan Read as executive chef of the Branson Convention Center, the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel and the Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing. Read will oversee catering services, coffee shops, food kiosks and kitchen operations for all three properties, including two full-service restaurants – the Liberty Tavern Restaurant, a Hilton signature restaurant located inside the Hilton Promenade, and Trofi, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant located inside the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel. Read, who joined Hilton in 2002, is a veteran of two previous Hilton openings in Portland, Ore., and Vancouver, Wash. Under Read's direction, the Hilton Vancouver emerged as one of a handful of Hilton properties in which food and beverage revenues exceeded room revenues. "We are thrilled to have a pro like Chef Read on our team," said Mark Hartman, general manager of Hiltons of Branson. "His background as both an executive chef and a manager means he understands the importance of giving Hilton guests a first-class experience at every meal." Read grew up in the Pacific Northwest where he developed an early appreciation for fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple, straightforward cuisine. As a child, he and his father fished the Puget Sound and nearby lakes for wild salmon and trout. At home, he developed a taste for fresh vegetables from his mother's garden. "I believe passionately in the importance of using the best local ingredients in my cooking," Read said. "Hilton shares that commitment, which is why I'm so excited about the menus we're developing for our Branson properties. We can't wait to give our guests a taste of the Midwest." The Branson Convention Center, which Hilton will manage for the city of Branson, and the 294-room Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, will open Aug. 17, 2007. The Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing, a 242-room boutique hotel, opened Feb. 14, 2007. Hilton operates nearly 500 hotels on six continents. -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Trikes in Taney County

By Scott Richardson srichardson@pantagraph.com Advertisement BRANSON, MO. -- Tricycles are made for small children. TRIKES are for the BIG KIDS. The three-wheeled motorcycles once drew only people who wanted to stand out among the bunch of traditional motorcyclists. Trike enthusiasts say individuality still counts among the main reasons to ride on three wheels instead of two. But trikes also have a practical side, insists Jim Sickler, founder of the Brothers of the Third Wheel, an international club of trike owners. The machines are experiencing a surge in popularity as baby boomers, formerly content with two wheels, begin searching for ways to comfortably and safely ride motorcycles well into their golden years, he said. That's not to say the 1,500 people who will gather June 3-10 at the organization's 25th annual Trike-In at Forsyth, Mo., will all sport gray hair. Brothers -- and sisters -- of the Third Wheel reflect the range of the motorcycle-riding public, he said. Take Mary Jo and Dwight Dunn, officers in the Pride of the Prairie chapter of Brothers of the Third Wheel. She is 39, he is 45. They'll drive from their home in Tuscola to the Trike-In on a trike Dwight built about 20 years ago from a converted Volkswagen Beetle that dated to the late '60s. Mary Jo Dunn started riding when they married 5½ years ago. "I think his parents were hoping I'd talk him out of it, but I think we ride it more than he used to," laughed the stay-at-home-mom whose husband works for Ameren. "It's like a couch in the back seat. I feel like the queen riding around on it." Sickler, who noted that May is National Motorcycle Awareness Month, started riding trikes when he bought his first one in 1970. The Harley Servicar was a three-wheeled motorcycle designed originally for traffic police and meter maids. Indian Motorcycle also built a version at the time. Innovators soon came on the scene. The late Ed "Big Daddy" Roth, a custom car builder and creator of the famed hot-rod icon Rat Fink cartoon, became a trike pioneer. "When I first got into it, it was back in the days of choppers. People built them to be different. Trikes were the same way," said Sickler, who owns four trikes. After he retired from his job as a machinist for John Deere in the Quad Cities, Sickler's dream was to ride around the perimeter of the United States. That was accomplished a few years ago after 14,000 miles and side trips to visit relatives of his wife, Lady, in her native Canada. She is an officer in the Brothers of the Third Wheel. Like Dwight Dunn, many people still cut, hammer, bend and weld VW Beetles into trikes. They offer the advantage of a basic mechanical system devoid of 21st century technology. No space-aged tools are needed to fix them if they break down, and owners can still do the work themselves. Sometimes, Sickler said, it seems all it takes is a bigger hammer to make them run. The oldest VW-to-trike conversion Sickler knows of started as a 1955 Bug, which still runs. The grandson of the original creator is currently restoring it. Another advantage is a VW conversion is often the cheapest way to go. "You can buy an old VW and put one together for $3,000," Sickler said "After that, the sky's the limit." Harley and Indian quit making trikes years ago. But about 15 after-market companies convert standard two-wheel motorcycles in three-wheels, he said. The move may add $5,000 to $10,000 to final cost compared to the price of the original two-wheeled version. Most trikes cost about $35,000, but he insisted that's not so bad compared to higher-end, two-wheeled motorcycles like his brother's $38,000 Harley. Other trikes that leave that amount in the dust. "The most expensive one I know of is $100,000," he said. The VW engines produce about 50 horsepower. A converted Honda Gold Wing may produce 80- to 90 horsepower, he said. As testament to the three-wheelers' growing popularity, Harley Davidson is rethinking its decision to abandon the market, Sickler said. Word on the street is the company is working with another company called Lehman on a production model trike. Lehman, which uses marketing mottos like "Enjoy the three-dom," and "Leader of the three world," currently makes after-market trikes using Harleys, Hondas and Suzukis. But a production model would shave several thousand dollars from the cost by eliminating the need to redo the entire rear end, Sickler said. The market is there, he added. Comfort is a big selling point. The operator has ample backrest. The passenger can have, as Mary Jo Dunn said, a space like a couch. That's especially important for older riders and there are plenty of those now and more to come. Sickler's 5,000 members from 14 countries formerly held their annual rallies during the huge motorcycle gathering each year in Sturgis, N.D. "At Sturgis, you look out in the crowd, and you don't hardly see anyone without gray in their beard anymore," he said. Mary Jo Dunn likes the fact that driving trikes is easier than driving standard motorcycles. Balance is not an issue, and you don't have to remember to put a foot down for support every time you stop, she said. Many trikes have automatic transmissions. "We have a lot of members whose wives or girlfriends wouldn't have anything to do with a motorcycle. That's not true with trikes. We have a lot of couples that start out with one trike and wind up with two because he gets tired of his wife driving it," said Sickler. Sickler said state laws vary on what licenses are needed to operate trikes on the road. Newcomers should check with their secretary of state's office to see what's required. In Illinois, Sickler said anyone with a motorcycle license can drive a three-wheeler, but people who take their motorcycle-license exams on a trike are limited to driving only three-wheelers. Mary Jo Dunn admits the unusual look of trikes is still one reason people like to ride them. Their appearance adds a certain mystique. "It's fun to see the people do a double-take: 'Hey, wait a minute, that's not normal,' " she said. All about trikes What: Pride of the Prairie Trikes, a chapter of Brothers of the Third Wheel Why: The chapter is seeking trike enthusiasts in the Pantagraph area. The club currently is centered closer to Decatur, Mount Zion, Tuscola and Champaign, though Brothers of the Third Wheel has members in Bloomington. Activities: The group sponsors day rides and some overnight adventures. Riders tend to shun interstates and stick to state highways to enjoy the scenery. Dues: $24 a year Contact: Mary Jo and Dwight Dunn at (217) 253-4824. Online: Visit Brothers of the Third Wheel at http://btw-trikers.org/uploads/home.php -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Little Branson Illinois

erry County Board Weighs in on 'Little Branson' Development Tuesday, June 19, 2007 12:30 PM CDT PINCKNEYVILLE - Perry County Board Chairman Jim Booker this morning said local leaders need to "take a chance" on the proposed convention resort development targeted by the Toney Watkins Company near Pyramid State Park. "Perry County has suffered through tough economic times for too long," Booker said in a released statement. "We think it's time to take a chance and embrace the prospects of economic development, tourism and a better quality of life for our citizens. We would be foolish if we didn't explore that opportunity, and we would be doing the people of Perry County a disservice if we did not. To put it simply, we have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Booker emphasized that county leaders have been working with the Toney Watkins Company since 2006 on the proposed project, referred to in company business plans as "The Nexus." Booker compared the site's development concept to that of Disney World, "a one-stop resort area." "While we at the county level have known of this proposal for over a year, we have respected the developers' wishes for secrecy. Our county officials have been in the room and involved in the process at every step," Booker said. "The Toney Watkins Company told us early on that two things would be needed (for project development): an available work force and thousands of acres of land in an accessible location. Right from the start, we told them that two resources that Perry County can provide are available land and an available work force." Booker believes local leaders and the corporation should work together to make the project a reality. "While we have many questions and some concerns, we feel it is certainly in the county's best interest to pursue this project. We don't have all the answers today, and frankly the developers of the Nexus project don't have all the answers yet, either," said Booker. "But by cooperating and working together, we can fully explore the opportunity that has been put before us." Booker said environmental concerns would be addressed with the project's development. Environmental groups including the Sierra Club earlier this month raised concerns that 2,000 acres in Pyramid State Park being targeted by the Toney Watkins Company could endanger several rare bird species. "We respect our environment," Booker said. "As the people who live here, we have a greater stake in our land, water and air than anyone else. We believe that this project can exist in Perry County and in many ways improve upon the land we have now. We can create a better environment from some of the neglected land left behind from years of coal mining." Company representatives say they have been in contact with environmentalists and plan to meet on-site at Pyramid to discuss possible concerns. However, Geri Boyer of the Kaskaskia Engineering Group said on Monday that acreage under consideration for the Pyramid land swap is currently being leased by the state to farmers, which would raise questions about environmentalists' concerns on land use. "That site is right now being leased out to farmers, and those fields are being planted and harvested every year," said Boyer, whose firm has worked with the Toney Watkins Company on the project for about a year now. State Sen. Dave Luechtefeld, R-Okawville, said in a telephone interview this morning that he also understands the Pyramid acreage is being farmed. "A big part of the 2,000 or so acres that we're targeted to possibly get from Pyramid is basically being farmed," Luechtefeld said, adding that he believes a land swap is still the least attractive route for securing acreage for the site. He believes securing acreage from private land holders would be the best way to go for the company. Overall, the senator said he believes developers should get the chance to construct the convention resort. "There's nothing wrong with at least letting them try to get something done, and as long as it's good for the area, as long as it doesn't cost the area anything," Luechtefeld said. "I do believe it is our job to try to give them a chance to succeed, because if they do succeed, it will greatly benefit the area." Booker emphasized that what's best for Perry County is top priority for local officials. "The people of Perry County and beyond will have a chance to be heard as we move forward," he said. "The Perry County board is here to represent the interests of our citizens. Those are the people who have more at stake than any other group or special interest." --Craig Shrum -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Hilton to Propose Parking Agreement with the city of Branson

Hilton's Proposed Parking Agreement

Senator Jack Goodman Lobbyist Contributions

Senator Jack Goodman Lobbyist Name Date Type of Expenditure Amended Report Reported Amount Category - Description Brad Thielemier 1/3/2007 Individual Not Amended $201.34 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Catherine Barrie 1/11/2007 Individual Not Amended $129.00 Other - Continuing Legal Education seminar Brad Thielemier 1/18/2007 Individual Not Amended $10.00 Meals, Food, & Beverage - David A. Smith 2/6/2007 Individual Not Amended $9.40 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Brad Thielemier 2/7/2007 Individual Not Amended $12.13 Meals, Food, & Beverage - lunch Betsy Morgan 2/7/2007 Individual Not Amended $8.92 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Dinner Betsy Morgan 2/12/2007 Individual Not Amended $15.45 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Dinner John Britton 2/14/2007 Individual Not Amended $18.95 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Jay Reichard 2/20/2007 Individual Not Amended $25.38 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Scott Swain 2/21/2007 Individual Not Amended $18.99 Meals, Food, & Beverage - dinner Gary R. Kremer 3/13/2007 Individual Not Amended $12.50 Printing & Publication - 1 PB Civil War Brad Thielemier 4/3/2007 Individual Not Amended $7.00 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Total Amount $469.06

Rep. Dennis Wood Lobbyist Contributions

Rep. Dennis Wood Lobbyist Name Date Type of Expenditure Amended Report Reported Amount Category - Description Randy J Scherr 1/10/2007 Individual Not Amended $30.48 Meals, Food, & Beverage - David E Martin 2/6/2007 Individual Not Amended $26.00 Meals, Food, & Beverage - John E Bardgett Jr 2/7/2007 Individual Not Amended $24.62 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Gary D Sharpe 2/12/2007 Individual Not Amended $34.80 Meals, Food, & Beverage - dinner Roy F. Cagle 3/14/2007 Individual Not Amended $6.51 Meals, Food, & Beverage - William Ratliff 3/14/2007 Individual Not Amended $6.51 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Jarrett J Sage 3/14/2007 Individual Not Amended $6.51 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Robert W Wilson 3/14/2007 Individual Not Amended $6.51 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Gary L. Burton 3/14/2007 Individual Not Amended $6.51 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Kevin L. Vossen 3/14/2007 Individual Not Amended $10.16 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Larry G. Cole 4/10/2007 Individual Not Amended $23.33 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Meal Larry G. Cole 4/17/2007 Individual Not Amended $22.87 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Meal Larry G. Cole 4/30/2007 Individual Not Amended $19.09 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Meal Total Amount $223.90

Rep. Maynard Wallace 2007 Lobbyist Contribution

Maynard Wallace 2007 Lobbyist Money Lobbyist Name Date Type of Expenditure Amended Report Reported Amount Category - Description Mark J Rhoads 2/6/2007 Individual Not Amended $8.00 Meals, Food, & Beverage - David E Martin 2/6/2007 Individual Not Amended $26.00 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Gary D Sharpe 2/12/2007 Individual Not Amended $34.82 Meals, Food, & Beverage - dinner Roy F. Cagle 3/14/2007 Individual Not Amended $6.51 Meals, Food, & Beverage - William Ratliff 3/14/2007 Individual Not Amended $6.51 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Jarrett J Sage 3/14/2007 Individual Not Amended $6.51 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Robert W Wilson 3/14/2007 Individual Not Amended $6.51 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Gary L. Burton 3/14/2007 Individual Not Amended $6.51 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Larry G. Cole 4/17/2007 Individual Not Amended $22.87 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Meal Michael C Reid 4/18/2007 Individual Not Amended $24.90 Meals, Food, & Beverage - Total Amount $149.14

Branson Neighbor Eureka Springs Gay Marriage Initiative

bransonagent@yahoo.com Eureka Springs plans to start domestic partner registry Friday by Paula Morehouse, KY3 News EUREKA SPRINGS, Ark. -- Opponents of a domestic partner registry in this tourist town say they gathered 160 signatures on a second petition drive calling for a public vote on the issue. The city clerk promptly rejected the petition, however, because she says its title doesn't satisfy state law. City officials immediately scheduled a ceremony for 9:30 a.m. Friday to inaugurate the registry. The Rev. Philip Wilson, pastor of First Christian Church of Eureka Springs, turned in the petition-signatures on Thursday afternoon. He and other opponents want to force a public vote on the ordinance that established the domestic partner registry. If the city clerk had accepted the petition, city officials would have had to delay the effective date of the ordinance until after a special election, or until the clerk determined the petition didn't include enough valid signatures of registered voters in Eureka Springs. Opponents see the registry as an endorsement of homosexuality, although heterosexual couples also could use the registry. Supporters say the registry would be the first step towards getting insurance, healthcare and financial service companies to extend benefits and recognitions to unmarried persons' partners. Wilson and opponents gathered enough valid signatures – they needed 144 and got 147 – on a previous petition to put the measure before voters in a special election. They turned in that petition on June 14. City Clerk Mary Jean Sell rejected that petition for not meeting state several legal requirements. The City Council voted unanimously in May to begin registering both gay and heterosexual couples. Couples who are 18 and older and pay a $35 fee will receive a certificate noting their partnership, which would be recorded in a paper registry. Story Created: Jun 21, 2007 at 5:10 PM CDT Story Updated: Jun 21, 2007 at 6:13 PM CDT -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Senate Bill 64 Signed in Branson by Lt. Governor Pete Kinder

By Brandon Cone BDN Staff Writer bcone@bransondailynews.com Local and state officials feel a new law that was recently signed into effect will extend the state's tourism season and stands as an example of compromise in government. Missouri Senate Bill No. 64, which Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder traveled to Branson to sign into law Monday will make it so that school's cannot set their start days any earlier than 10 days prior to Labor Day without holding a public meeting. The law will not effect the 2007-08 school year, but will take effect before the 2008-09 school year. "This bill is not only be a real economic benefit for Branson, but the entire state's tourism industry," Kinder said. "This will set a standard that will be used by Missouri schools each year." Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Ross Summers said getting the school start date law passed has been going on for "several long years." "It's nice to finally see this come to fruition," Summers said. "I think the state's economy as a whole will be much better for it." Summers said the bill is crucial to the Branson Area especially of the effect students returning to school has on all businesses associated with the tourism industry. "Every year also immediately when school is back in session, all of our businesses see a drop off," Summers said. "If schools are starting on Aug. 10, then that's two weeks of business we lose." Kinder added, "In the 60s when I was in school, classes didn't start until the day after Labor Day. But since then school start dates have creeped earlier and earlier, and we hope this will put a stop to that creeping." State Rep. Maynard Wallace, who handled the bill, introduced by senator Jack Goodman, in the state's House of Representatives, said the law is meant to provide "a framework." "This still leaves the local control," Wallace said, making mention of provisions set forth in the bill which allow schools to hold a public meeting on their dates prior to being able to set it before the 10-day period. State Rep. Dennis Wood said the law also had other benefits. "This will allow for families to spend more time together in the summer and go on vacation together," Wood said. "This also allows for our businesses in the tourism industry which rely on high school-aged employees to keep their workforce a few more weeks." -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Branson Hall of Fame

BRANSON - Ken Barth, owner of the Branson Mall, has announced upcoming Country Gold Concerts that will be performed in the Branson Hall of Fame Theatre inside the mall beside Wal-Mart on Missouri 76. Leroy Van Dyke of "Auctioneer" and "Walk On By" fame will perform on selected dates for 16 weeks beginning June 28 through 30. Van Dyke has been a member and star of the "Grand Ole Opry," and was one of the first country artists to successfully fill venues in Las Vegas. Ronnie Prophet will perform over eight weeks with his first shows July 5 through 7. Prophet is a member of the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, and has performed in Branson for several years. T.G. Sheppard will appear July 26 through 28 with hits including "Last Cheater's Waltz." For more information, call the theater at 336-3263. -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Missouri House and Senate Representatives Finance - Blunt Sales Branson Condo

McCaskill gets pay increase; Blunt sells Branson condominium, financial disclosures show By Pamela Brogan Gannett News Service WASHINGTON — Freshman Democratic Sen. Claire McCaskill got a pay raise when she became a member of Congress. McCaskill earned $96,455 as a state auditor and is now earning $165,200 as a senator. That amounts to a 71 pay percent increase. Republican Sen. Christopher "Kit" Bond's largest asset is a trust from his parents valued at $250,000 to $500,000. Republican Rep. Roy Blunt, the House minority whip, sold his rental property in Branson valued at between $100,000 to $250,000. Rep. Ike Skelton, the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, lists as his only asset a trust from his late mother valued at between $100,000 to $250,000. These are some of the disclosures made by lawmakers in their annual personal financial reports that cover 2006. But it's difficult to pin down a lawmaker's net worth, because they only have to report assets, income and debts in wide ranges. They do not have to report their homes. Members of Congress also are required to report trips paid for by others, and any boards or foundations they may serve on. McCaskill lists a $1.6 million debt from her governor's race that she is paying off, according to her spokeswoman Adrianne Marsh. Her husband, Joseph Shepard, a business developer, lists assets of more than $10 million. They include an investment fund in New Zealand valued at more than $1 million, a real estate limited partnership in St. Louis valued at more than $1 million, and apartment holdings in Columbia valued at more than $1 million. Massie Ritsch, spokesman for the Center for Responsive Politics, said the annual financial disclosure reports are important because they provide a way for the public to judge whether the people they send to Washington are letting their personal investments influence their official decision making. The center is a nonpartisan watchdog group in Washington that tracks how money influences politics. -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com

Rick Huffman - Branson Landing Happy with results

Branson Landing owner jubilant Kathryn Buckstaff News-Leader Published on June 15th in the Springfield News Leader Branson — For developer Rick Huffman, the one-year birthday of Branson Landing marks more than five years of dreaming, planning and fighting for his vision. He's happy with the results. "I'm down there at least once a week, usually to eat," he said. "My wife's down once or twice a week to shop." Huffman started working construction jobs when he was 13. He's built shopping centers, subdivisions and time-share projects in several states. "This one is definitely more personal because it's in the city we live in," Huffman said. "When you build in other cities, you kind of lose touch with it, but when it's in your own backyard, you take more pride in ownership." From a business perspective, Huffman said he's "very happy with the attendance and sales and the stores that have become our tenants." Huffman said there's only one down side to owning Branson Landing: "When you go down there, you see what's wrong. ... One light bulb out drives me crazy, and then I drive our maintenance staff crazy." Huffman, who grew up in Wichita, began his career at a securities firm where his job was to analyze developments. In 1989, Huffman and partners Sam Catanese and Marc Williams visited Branson and bought some lots in Thousand Hills, a profitable investment soon developed. Huffman has added other partners over the years including Lebanon tycoon Robert Plaster. In 1992, Huffman moved his family to Branson. He and his wife, Sue Ann, have four sons and a daughter. Projects here include the Roy Rogers and Dale Evans Museum, which he brought to town and built. In 2002, HCW Development Company — with Huffman as president — was one of six companies that responded to Branson's request for downtown lakefront proposals. "I have a love for building things," Huffman said when HCW's project was selected by city officials. "I get a lot of personal satisfaction out of seeing something built and knowing it's going to be there for the next 100 years." Huffman hasn't rested on his laurels. Work is under way on Branson Hills, the largest residential development ever built in Branson. Its Tribute Golf Club, set to open this fall, will honor Springfield's late golf professional Payne Stewart. Future projects include opening a Starbucks in historic downtown Branson, a block from Branson Landing. Huffman is still working on Landing View, lakefront condominiums in Hollister. And he awaits word on a hotel project proposal in downtown Springfield. Huffman said plans for a 25-story hotel in Branson are on hold. His proposal drew criticism from some who opposed the building's height, but it was approved by the Board of Aldermen. "The feasibility study showed it's too early to warrant building that building," Huffman said. "We need to give Branson a few more years. Just financially, it won't work today. At least it's approved if it ever does happen." -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com