Branson's 62nd Annual Black Tie Celebration - Springfield News-Leader Coverage

It was a festive evening Friday at the 62nd Annual Black Tie Celebration where nine of Branson's finest citizens were recognized for their contributions to the community by the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Burea, the Chamber said in a news release. About 520 people attended the reception and dinner at the Chateau on the Lake Resort, Spa & Convention Center. Many generous Chamber members made the elegant evening possible. The "Emerald" sponsors were Mary Kellogg and John Joslyn, owners of the Titanic Museum Attraction. Other sponsors included Branson Airport, Skaggs Regional Medical Center, St. John's Clinic, Golden Corral, CenturyTel, Hawthorn Bank, Branson.com, Connell Insurance, Empire District Electric, Branson Tourism Center, BKD, LLP. And North Pole Productions. Also 19 companies were table sponsors. Stone Hill and Mount Pleasant wineries provided wine-tasting during the reception. Also featured was pie-tasting to whet everyone's appetite for Ozark Mountain Spring's Great American Pie Show to be presented April 24 and 25 in the Branson Convention Center featuring guest judge NBC's Al Roker. A dozen varieties of tarts were provided by Fall Creek Bakery, McFarland's and The Keeter Center. The Touch of Brass combo featuring John Raczka, Jon Trimble, Michael Lacy and Marcus Willett was produced by Associated Artists and Midwest Concerts and Events. Photos of the guests were provided by Swift Shots Photography.  The "Emerald Evening" theme was highlighted by a raffle for emerald and other jewelry provided by Tatman's Fine Jewelry Boutique. The table centerpieces on the table were compliments of Petals. The programs were produced by Ink Works, and the invitations were provided by Creative Printing & Design. The evening culminated with awards in six categories. Digital Lunchbox produced a video introduction to the awards, profiling each recipient, who did not know in advance of the honor. The Mary Award honors Mary Herschend and Mary Trimble, two women who played significant roles in the development of Branson and excelled in their service to others. Capts. Ron and Laura Key, who have directed the Salvation Army Branson since 2004, were honored. Last year, they oversaw the care, feeding, clothing and general support of more than 10,000 people. They have gathered volunteers, organized bell- ringers, directed the Girl Guards, raised funds, and provided significant assistance to people who fled to Branson after disasters in Louisiana and Texas.  The Pioneer Award recognizes outstanding service to the community at least 15 years ago. Jack and Peter Herschend, who could not attend the event, were the recipients. Their family arrived in 1950, and after their father died, they helped their mother build Silver Dollar City. They've built other Branson attractions and oversee many charitable and environmental ventures as well. Their vision and perseverance have enriched the lives of area residents and millions of visitors. The Ambassador Award acknowledges people who have brought positive attention to Branson. This year's recipients are John Joslyn and Mary Kellogg, owners of the Titanic Museum Attraction. The skills and leadership they've provided the community in their three years here have been priceless. They began promoting Branson in 1995 when Kellogg brought "Live with Regis and Kathie Lee" to town. Their events at the Titanic garner national coverage for Branson. They serve on several boards and committees, and Joslyn also is active in the Boys and Girls Club. The Beautification Award honors individuals who have enhanced the appearance of the community. It was presented to Dimitri Tsaharidis, who was born in Greece and came to Branson in the 1980s to open Dimitris, a gourmet restaurant on Lake Taneycomo. In 1993, he built a floating glass restaurant on the lake. Other buildings he's built also enrich the environment including the CastleRock office complex and the Chappy Mall in downtown Branson. The Community Spirit Award goes to a person or organization whose efforts have benefited the community within the past two years. Linn Windle is known as the "Pie Man." Over his years working as a Missouri Highway Patrol Sergeant in the Branson area, Windle baked and donated hundreds of pies and cookies. Last year, his donated baked goods raised more than $10,000 at charity fundraisers. He delivers pies to hospitals, nursing homes, local businesses, even city and county offices—just because he enjoys sharing his hobby. Windle, who did not know of the award in advance, brought pies to the Black Tie Celebration to award as door prizes.  The Care For Kids Award recognizes service to the community's children. Branson Fire Department Division Chief Ted Martin has inspired children through his involvement with K-Life and the DARE program. He teaches fire prevention and safety to students in the Branson School District. He started a program in which fire fighters mentor boys in the Future Men school. And Chief Martin also is a foster parent. -- http://MissouriNetizen.com http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.missourinetizen.com