Branson Development Disaster

Three years ago Branson elected a new mayor and an era of unprecedented corruption was born.

As money flowed to business partners and conflicting boards of which the mayor served and currently serves on; all commerce to which Raeanne Presley wasn't personally or politically in vested in came to a screeching halt.

Following a previous administrations multi-billion dollar economic engines, Presley had one project to steward. The project is an ongoing disaster and eyesore to the community which cartoonist John Logan illustrates in the cartoon above.

Welcome to Branson - "Here's Your Sign"

 

There are three noted achievements of the current administration at Branson City Hall (four if you coun't direct bribes to local journalists).

1. Pilfering the multi-millions in savings of Branson's prior leadership

2. Laundering money to Skaggs Hospital and other committees Branson's Mayor Raeanne Presley sits on in conflict to her public responsibilities

3. Creating a new sign at the entrance to Branson.

As corruption plagues the citizens of Branson potentially forcing a tax increase, city leaders have succeeded at something that doesn't cost the Branson ecnonomy too much.

Unfortunately, the last listed achievement took longer than the prior city leadership took to build the Branson Landing.

Branson will now have an entrance sign which was recently approved by the Branson Beautification Commitee. The image above is what the sign will look like.

Branson Travel Manual 1940's

This travel manual from the 1940's predates both "Big Headliners" and the Taney County Health Department's observation that locals being overweight is the second largest health issue proceeding smoking.

*I also think it's important to note that Lake Taneycomo is being branded as a year-round destination.

Branson Gospel Music Convention Lineup

The B anson Convention Center is hosting a Gospel Music Convention July 14-17.

During the days of American slavery races would intermingle for worship. African rhythms were integrated into the American worship practices. The melodies allowed verse recitation for those who were illiterate. The tradition of worship continues in some churches to this day.

Branson Gospel Convention Musical Lineup

145 Music Group
2nd Generation
Alan Harris Family
Allegiance
Annette Herndon
Ascension Quartet
The Bethels
Bev McCann Ministries
Beyond The Ashes
Bill Allen
Bill Schell
Blackwood Quartet
The Boys Of The Fort
The Bradford Trio
C S & K
Calvary Echoes
Canaan Bound
Carrie Ann Smallwood
Cathy J. Reynolds
The Cerces
CGCRadio/Hope Street Music/CCGNews
Charles Ross Ministries
Cherise Perkins
Chuck Wagon Gang
Christian Gift Outlet
Christian Voice Magazine
Clayton Watson
The Couch Family
CrossPoint Quartet
Crossway
The Crusader’s Quartet
Crystal Valley Quartet
Curt Shoemaker “The Shoe”
Dale & Cheryl Golden
Darrell Marshall
David East
Debbie Bennett
Decree
Deep South Regional Quartet Convention
Dennis Rehders
Doris Bullington/ Doris’ Music
Dove CDs/The Singing Weavers
Dustin & Kaila
Dusty Wells
Emcee Pro/Testify Software
Encouraging Today’s Women
The Ellis Family/TEF Ministries
Eric Hinson (of the Original Hinson Family)
Eternal Life Duet
Evangelistic International Ministries
Evidence
Expectation
Faithful Touch Trio
Faithfull II
Florida Boys
Full Life Trio
Gifts with a Meaning
Glitz & Glamour Gifts
Gold Harbor
The Goodwins
GospelGigs.com
Gospel Guitar Guys
Gospel Music Television
Gospel Music Times
GospelOK / Heir Wave Radio
Gospel Rivers Boys
“Hannah Belle” Southerland
The Harris Family
Hearts of Faith
Hearts of Grace
Heavenly Sunrise Qt
His Call Ministries
HIS Choice Productions
Homelighters Quartet
The Homesteaders Quartet
Inheritance - Jackson & Scroggs
Jake Holder & Messenger Sound
James McMickin
Jay Stone Singers
Jericho
Judah
Karen Shadbolt Ministries
Kathy Atkins
Kathy Carpenter
Kathy Woodward
Keith Caldwell
Kelly Perry
Kenny Bishop
Kings Highway
Kirk Talley
KWFC-FM Radio (Springfield, MO)
The Ladds
Lighthouse Messengers
Lookin’ Up
Lottie Collier
Lou Wills Hildreth
Lulu Roman
Lynda Lynn Songs, On Angels Wings Publishing
Lynnette Williams
Mansion Entetainment
Marcey Wall / The Jim Bakker Show
Margie Tanner
Marla Conrad
Mary Fay Jackson/Texas Country Gospel
Mary L. Davis
The McDaniel Quartet
McMillan & Life
Messengers N Harmony
Mike Powell/John 3:30 Ministries
Minister’s Quartet
The Missourians
The Nelons
The Nehrkorns
New Creations Ministry
New Direction Ministries
Northern Edge
The Parnells
The Parish Family
Paul Armstrong
The Paul Family
The Paynes
Peggy Inks
The Peaceful Hearts
Perfect Peace Ministries
Praise Incorporated
Promises
PromisedLand Quartet
Psalm 100
Red Roots
Redemption Road
The Revelators
The Revived
Rhonpaul Ministries
Rob Helton Music Group
Rod Burton
Ron Brewer
Roy Edwards Ministries
The Samaritans
Samaritan Revival
SGM Radio
SGN Scoops Digital / The Diamond Awars
Shane Tecza Ministries
The Shannons
Shannon Bunch
Shelton Bissell
Shine On Trio
The Shireys
SKy Angel Faith & Family Television
The Stamps
The Stanleys
Sunday Edition/SSE Group
Taj Rohr
Tammy Norris
Terry Dorsey
Tommy D. Mayos Southern Gospel Outreach
Violet Maynard
Wendy Word + Forgiven
Weston Hinson & By Faith
The Wilsons
Young Harmony
YoungSong

Branson Slave Labor Scheme Foiled by Grand Jury

Branson's unemployment rate is the highest in the state during the off season peaking above 13% during the driest months.
Business takes a burst in April and Silver Dollar City's World Fest brings a healthy crop of foreign nationals in time for the tourist season to kick off.

Over the past few years an insurgence of foreign nationals from the former Soviet Union and satellite states ensures both poverty for the local population and cheap labor for many Branson businesses.

During the spring staffing firms negotiate with local businesses to provide cheap labor. The abundance of inexpensive motels helps subsidize these firms who contract with guaranteed minimum hours.

Even the most mundane jobs are filled before the summer heat brings swarms of tourists. Locking in the import of alien workers involves advertising in developing nations for bodies to fill seasonal demand.

The laborers often stay longer than their visas and fill other service industry jobs while in Branson.

A Federal Grand Jury indicted 12 in the Western District Court in Kansas City yesterday with charges including racketeering, marriage fraud, visa fraud to name a few.

The multi state operation cited two Branson area businesses that contracted for illegal labor. The two listed are Branson Creek and Pointe Royale. The full PDF file is posted on Branson Agent or can be accessed directly

"Human Trafficking PDF"Federal Grand Jury Indictment PDF

A few related stories on the topic:

Branson Real Politik 3 of 3

Race Relations When Mexicans and Russians Unite

Branson Employees Beware - A letter to Branson Employees

A survey is being circulated at Branson City Hall and as many of you are quite aware the data will be reviewed by Branson's Board of Alderman.

Most of you are smart enough not to answer the survey honestly as the repercussions of doing so could jeopardize your careers and the ability for you to take care of your families.

Our Mayor, or as I call her, Branson's Chief Money Launderer, has a history of firing people who challenge her ethics and refuse to conduct illegal activities as prescribed.

A good example of this may be in the form of the Mayor personally asking you to sign documents or conduct repairs in front of a business partners home.

Recently, Ms. Presley granted herself and her friends on the board of Alderman a $90,000 slush fund to play with. Another $250,000 for her League of Theaters political fund from the regional tax district and another large donation that directly concerns you.

While Skaggs Board and associates, which Presley serves on , receives millions in public funds you might be told there is no money to pay for raises, bonuses or proper personnel. Against common sense, another $40,000 was granted by the board to themselves for a lobbyist. One of the purposes of this lobbyist is to ensure you don't organize.

Fortunately, the law allows for secret ballots in the event you want to both keep your jobs and restore integrity to Branson City Hall.

Most of the politicos in town have given up. Many are already accumulating bribe money to ship her out - maybe a gubernatorial appointment or as a rep for a small district. Her actions, neglect for the cities financial viability and use of public funds for personal gain reveal the personality behind the most selfish leader Branson has been cursed with.

I was hoping to bring you good news, but unfortuantely I'm obliged to inform you that it's about to get much worse.

Perhaps you want to know where your next assignment will be. It's important to look at where the political donations are coming from. A simple map of the area reveals Presley is most bribed west 76 strip. Expect development in this region as it would be most damaging to downtown Branson, an area Presley despises and has worked vigorously to bankrupt.

The real innovative projects have been shut down such as the monorail prior administrations were planning. In light of the vision and economic focus prior to Presley's regime you might find some of the work a waste of time and contrary to good fiscal management. Unfortunately, there is little you can do about this.

You can however make a dent in corruption at Branson City Hall and protect both yourselves and the citizens.

The next time Presley asks you to break the law, sign a document against common-sense ethics or undermine government processes by contacting you directly, report the incident to an attorney with as much written documentation as possible.

By the time criminal charges catch up to you, Presley will be out of city hall. Hopefully we'll have leaders at that point who prize honor before self-interest. And at that time, if you've assisted with Presley's battle against the Branson economy, you could prosecuted.

Capatalizing on the Branson Landing

Since the Branson Landing's inception I've been trying to figure out how to capitalize on it.
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A recent Branson Chamber of Commerce survey concluded Branson's $450 million dollar lakefront project was Branson Missouri's top destination.

I've sat center stage the past 31 days with the clearest view of the property - studying.

Rick Huffman, the developer of the Branson Landing stopped by last week before heading to an architectural awards ceremony in Las Vegas. Between then and now he's crushed my cold drink monopoly with Coke machines in the Town Square.

After Branson whistleblower Ruth Denham unfolded corruption in Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley administration not even Huffman, always known as bold in business, dares attempt reform efforts to save Branson's economy.

In three years the Branson Landing and Branson Hills projects have generated over 25 percent of Branson's income. Unfortunately, Branson's current administration can't seem to stop frivolously spending it.

Memorial Day is coming and the seasonal rush has tourists moving from a trickling creek to a steady stream (rain days excluded).

It's time to get paid....

Mike Huckabee to Speak At College of the Ozarks Graduation Ceremony

College of the Ozarks will hold its Baccalaureate and Commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 10, 2008, in Keeter Gymnasium, where 251 students will receive a diploma. Baccalaureate service will be at 11 a.m. and Commencement is at 2 p.m., followed by a reception on Kelce dormitory’s lawn.

The Honorable Mike Huckabee, former Arkansas Governor, will give the Commencement address. Huckabee graduated magna cum laude from Ouachita Baptist University, completing his bachelor’s degree in religion in 2 ½ years, before attending Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth.

With roots in Hope, Arkansas, Huckabee first was elected Lieutenant Governor of Arkansas in a 1993 special election and was elected to a full four-year term in 1994. He served as 44th Governor of Arkansas from 1996-2007. Last year, Huckabee campaigned for the Republican nomination for President, finishing second in the Republican Presidential Primary.

Presently, Huckabee hosts a weekend news show on the FOX News Channel, as well as hosts a daily radio commentary on ABC radio.

Dr. James T. Draper, Jr., retired President and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources, will give the Baccalaureate service. LifeWay Christian Resources is one of the largest Christian communications companies.

Dr. Draper earned his bachelor’s degrees from Baylor University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He obtained his master of divinity from Southwestern Seminary and has received doctoral degrees from Howard Payne University, Campbell University and California Baptist University.

Dr. Draper has authored 27 books, including We Believe, Trusting Thy Word and Every Christian is a Minister.

A long-time Baptist minister and prominent figure in the Southern Baptist Convention, Dr. Draper served as the Convention President from 1982-1984; was the Chairman of the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary Board of Trustees 1990-91 and trustee member 1984-1991; and has been a trustee of Baylor University, Southwest Baptist University and California Baptist University.

Please join C of O in recognizing the graduating seniors’ accomplishments at the Baccalaureate and Commencement ceremonies. Tickets are not required, but seating is limited for both ceremonies. For more information, contact the office of the Dean of the College at (417) 690-2278.

Branson Airport Snabs Media Attention

Branson Airport in the News: Branson Airport News Articles Summaries and Links

Merle Haggard Back in Branson June 11

Merle Haggard will perform in Branson Thursday June 11th call the Tri-Lakes Center box office for tickets!

Branson Opens For Air Travel

Branson is ready for international flights as the epic opening of the airport south of Hollister launched this weeken despite some local politicos efforts to thwart the regional airport from opening.

One of the main opponents of the airport, Branson's current Mayor Raeanne Presley fought against the airport but took the spotlight during the opening ceremonies. Though Presley has repeatedly criticized the vision of Branson's former administrators, she was gracious in crediting former Mayor Lou Schaefer during the announcement of Air Tran as the first commercial airline to ink a deal to charter flights into Southern Missouri.

Employees of the airport applauded as the first planes landed carrying Branson Airport's investors and their families as they walked into Famous Dave's in the terminal which has a barn facade complete with a water wheel. Read More: Branson Airport Opens

(Photo by Melnov)

Renea McMasters on Missouri Department of Conservation Termination

Dear friends in liberty,

• On 4-28-2009 my employment with the Missouri Department of Conservation was terminated.
• The reason given was "work place violence."
• I disagree with this reason.
• On 4-26-09 I yelled at a volunteer who was taunting and teasing me.

This person was making fun of my name, calling me, "Rene-Ahh." I raised my voice. I did NOT threaten, swear at, or call her names. I simply told her that I was sick of her taunting me and using tax-payer money to promote big business and lobbying groups.

The full details of my separation are lengthy and warrant further investigation by the Missouri Department of Conservation, the State Treasurer, as well as the tax payers of Missouri. I will provide you with the highlights that led up to my termination.

• My supervisor at the Shepherd of the Hills Visitor Center, John Miller, recruited me as a volunteer after I was hired to fill a position of Public Service Clerk.
• John's wife, Kathy, is in charge of running special events at the visitor center.
• At some special events John and Kathy sometimes appear to quarrel. I have been put in the middle by Kathy requesting that I walk across the property and retrieve John, and John sending me back to Kathy with a message. I was in no position to say no to the boss or the boss's wife. I was working and getting paid by the state at these events.
• In the early part of February, John placed Kathy and another volunteer, Carrie-Ann in charge of coordinating an Earth Day event for 4-25-09. Kathy requested that I organize a local food workshop. I agreed to volunteer for this task, and spent my days off driving to or calling people in my area, asking them to set-up a booth at the event. I told people this was a celebration of all things local and a demonstration of how small businesses are better for the environment.
• In the early part of March, Kathy and Carrie-Ann announced that they were inviting Lowe's and Home Depot to the event. I told John, Kathy, and Carrie-Ann that the people I had invited would feel insulted by this. I resigned as a volunteer for the state and turned over all contacts I had made to Kathy and Carrie-Ann. I was content to continue my job as a public service clerk. I just did not want to volunteer anymore.
• In early April the small, local businesses I had contacted in February began calling me. They wanted to know why I had made no further contact. I tried to talk to John about this. John cut me offand told me to talk to Kathy.
• I did talk to Kathy, who lectured me about my communication skills and frequent misunderstandings. I was very hurt and angry about this lecture, but could not go to my boss because it was his wife givingthe lecture.
• In late April, I opened a package that arrived at the visitor's center. This package was from the Missouri Corn Growers Association, a lobbying group that seeks government funding. The package was full of brochures promoting the use and more funding for ethanol. I asked John
what this was for and he said they were to be given out at the Earth Day event.
• On 4-28-09 Carrie-Ann came to the visitor's center to work on Earth Day projects. Every time I saw her she made fun of my name. She knows how to pronounce my name. I have heard her say it correctly. I asked her why she was using tax payer time and facilities to promote a
lobbying group. She said she used to work for Monsanto. I yelled at
her. I yelled that my name is Renea and I disapprove of a former Monsanto employee using tax dollars to promote a practice that seeks government funding to burn food and drive up the price of groceries. I yelled that I can barely afford to feed my family as it is. Then I left.
• I also spent a week working with an employee, Bryon, who came to work late and left early everyday. Furthermore, when Bryon is at work he spends his day in my boss's office surfing the internet and sending email. Bryon makes more than $15 an hour.
• I had complained to John about this several times. When I resigned as a volunteer John became more critical of my work. I feed the turtles too much (I used my own money to buy food for the turtles). I was late one morning and John told me to "not make a habit of it." In
the two plus years that I have worked for him I had been late maybefive times.
• I did Bryon's job and my job on the days I worked with Bryon. Other employees voiced the same complaints to John.

I never received any warning or criticism about my work until I resigned as a volunteer. Everyday I strived to do better than the last. I did every task assigned to me, as well as compensated for Bryon's absence. I spent two years volunteering so I could learn more
about the job I was getting paid to do.

• John is a member of the National Association of Interpreter's. John and Kathy used tax payer money to fly around the United States to hand out awards. I helped John with his credit card statements every month. The State of Missouri has paid thousands of dollars for plane tickets
alone. John took his wife, Kathy, and the state paid for private hotel rooms and food. John and Kathy have taken at least three trips in the
past year. Each trip was 5 - 10 days long. The people of Missouri has footed the bill.

Any ideas on how to stop the Missouri Department of Conservation from abusing our money and neglecting our citizens and wildlife?

Your friend in Liberty,
Renea McMasters

Branson Landing Initiates Preventative Measures to Prevent Swine Flu Outbreak

The Branson Landing management issued a release to merchants yesterday stating preventative measures were being taken to prevent an outbreak of "swine flu" noting the outdoor facility was a public gathering place worthy of stricter sanitary measures.

No cases have been reported in Branson or the surrounding area. The current infection count is being posted by the Center for Disease Control.

U.S. Human Cases of H1N1 Flu Infection (As of May 2, 2009, 11:00 AM ET)
States	# of laboratory confirmed cases	Deaths
Arizona	4
California	24
Colorado	2
Connecticut	1
Delaware	4
Florida	2
Illinois	3
Indiana	3
Kansas	2
Kentucky*	1
Massachusetts	8
Michigan	2
Minnesota	1
Missouri	1
Nevada	1
New Jersey	7
New York	50
Ohio	1
South Carolina	13
Texas	28	1
Virginia	2
TOTAL (21)	160 cases	1 death
*Case is resident of Ky. but currently hospitalized in Ga.
Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Branson Blasts Into 2009 Season

Branson's packed 76 strip was bittersweet for locals as tourists flocked to "the live music capital of the world." But for many tourists showtime at theaters were an afterthought.

Al Roker cruised the Branson Landing between eating pie at the Branson Convention Center where he along with psuedo-celebrities tasted sweet baked wares.

Chateau on the Lake hosted a wine festival and the weather was cooperative for Springfield residents seeking a short weekend getaway.

Democratic politicians were seen strolling the Branson Landing as Jackson Days ensued. Larry Milton's sponsorship of a ceremony for Purple Heart recipients drew a crowd as well with not too many onlookers leaving when his business partner Raeanne Presley took the stage.

2008 sported record income for Branson and though local media outlets failed in coverage of this spectacular happenstance 2009 looks like it's going to be a prosperous year.

Recessions don't have the same effect on Branson's tourism numbers as other parts of the country and for good reason. Hotels in Branson range from 26 dollars a night to 200.

It's cheaper to stay in Branson than any roadside motel along the way. The value proposition of a vacation to Branson can entertain even the most deficit of budgets.

(Photo: View of Branson from Hollister Hilltop by Darin Codon)

Purple Mountain Majesty Twilight Ceremony at 6 PM Sat. April 26

Branson will honor our Nation's Purple Heart recipients with a "Purple Mountain Majesty Twilight Ceremony" beggining at 6 P.M. Saturday at the Branson Landing fountains.

Sergeant Major Tony rose, a retired 9-11 Pentagon survivor and Purple Heart recipient will speak along with performances by Barbara Fairchild and SIX.

Saturday Pie Show Schedule

10 AM Al Roker will reappear Sat, April 25th for a book signing and question and answer session.

1 PM Andy Williams at the celebrity cooking stage demonstrating how to make his mother's chicken pot pie

2 PM The Candy House Baker demonstrate chocholate fondue, ganache and truffles

3 PM Bill Medley will cook his favorie Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie

4 PM Al Roker will announce the grand winner of the Great American Pie Show

Today Show Live at Branson Landing with Al Roker and other events

Al Roker will be broadcasting live at the Branson Landing live from 6:00 to 9:00 at the Branson Landing Town Square Fountain.

At noon the Branson Landing will host an Arbor Day Celebration. Yakov Smirnoff will serve as the MC with a special performance by John and Ambrus Presley and the music group SIX. This will be John and Ambrus Presley's first performance at the Branson Landing. The objective of reforesting trees will be met with the passing out of 200 Red Twig Dogwood seedlings and 500 Holly Bushes donated by Empire Electric.

After the live broadcast the American Pie Show will ensue across the street at the Branson Convention Center. Local celebrities will join the battle to become the pic champion.

The schedule:
10am The Lennon Sisters will make their Berry Rhubarb Pie
11am The Branson Divas will reveal the ingredients in McFarlain's Traffic Jam Pie.
Noon The comets will whip up a Raspberry Meringue Pie
1 pm Roy Rogers Jr. will make Mrs. Roger's Lemon Meringue Pie
2 pm Bakers from Silver Dollar City's Culinary and Craft School will make pumpkin strudel
3 pm Paul Revere will make his favorite Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

After the presentations judging will begin and will be broadcast on NBC.

Branson Tea Party

Groups from around the nation are gathering today for TEA (Taxed Enough Already) "Parties".

Local Attorney Eric Farris is vocally leading the charge in Branson with the invitation posted below:

An invitation to Branson's Tax Day Tea Party:

Did the bailouts make you rich? Did you get a big bonus from Fannie Mae,Freddie Mac, AIG, the Postal Service, the federal government, or othergovernment agency or company bailed out by our tax dollars? No? Not meeither.

Are you tired of politicians using your tax money to bail out and enrichtheir friends, supporters and themselves? Are you tired of bailing outirresponsible people while you tighten your belt and work harder to supportyourselves and your families? Are you tired of seeing politicians createdebt that will make our children, their children, and future generationspoorer? Me too!
Express your dissatisfaction by joining us at Branson's Tax Day Tea Party onWednesday, April 15th!! Create a sign or just show up to tell our officialsthat "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!" Stop the spending! Stop buying votes with debt thatfuture generations will have to pay for!
There are 2 back-to-back events in Branson on Wednesday, April 15, 2009:
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=69617329379
1. 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. -- Roadside Protest along Highway 76 between FallCreek Road and Green Mountain Drive
2. 1:15 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. -- Rally/Town Hall Meeting at Branson Landingoutside Texas Land & Cattle SteakHouse next to the fountains and boardwalk

We are taxed enough. The problem is government spending, not income. Expressyour dissatisfaction with government spending. Start by joining millions ofAmericans who will express their dissatisfaction at a Tax Day Tea Party onApril 15. I hope to see you there.

Branson Landing is Branson MIssouri's top Attraction

The Branson Chamber of Commerce conducted a study this year of what tourists do when visitors come to Branson. The study revealed more tourists are shopping than attending shows.

Top Destinations by Branson Tourists:
1. Branson Landing 61%
2. Silver Dollar City 32.5%
3. Visited the Lake 42.9%
4. Noah Theater 21.0%
5. Shepard of the Hills 21%

Top Destinations by Category:
1. Shopping 82%
2.Theaters 80.2%
3. Museums 29.3%

Harold Bell Wright Festival Slated May 22-23

The festival and parade honoring author Harold Bell Wright has been moved to Hollister and is slated for May 22-23.

(Cartoon created by John Logan)

Taney County East-West Corridor Rejected by Voters

Proposition A: 1/4 cent sales tax for east-west corridor
YES: 1,754
NO : 2,189

Taney and Stone County Election Coverage by Sam Clanton

Taney and Stone County Election Summary - Courtesy KRZK

The most expensive items on the Tuesday ballot in Taney County is the proposal to fund the East/West Corridor between Kirbyville and Hollister, and the Hollister School District's initiative to fund an early childhood center. Proposition A is a question to create a quarter-cent sales tax to pay for the East/West Corridor Road. If approved, the sales tax would expire at the end of 2022. Hollister's bond election is a question of incurring indebtedness and issuing general obligation bonds in the amount of 6-point-5 million to construct an early childhood center including pre-K through first grade classrooms and daycare facilities. If approved, the debt service levy of the school district would actually decrease from 81-cents to 76-cents per one hundred dollars assessed valuation. In Stone County, the Reeds Spring School District is proposing a 5-point-8 million dollar bond issue to construct additional classrooms and a multi-purpose facility at the high school, make repairs and renovations to the middle school, purchase property currently leased to the school district, and purchase additional school buses. If approved, the school's debt service levy would remain unchanged at 76-cents.
School board elections in Taney County include several contested races. Two Branson School Board members will be elected from a field of four that consists of Eric Alms, Peter Marcellus, Wendy Davison and Scott Winslow. Likewise, Forsyth School District voters will select two candidates from a list of four that includes Jack Johnston, C. Jack Baker, Tom Nowacki and Christina Schanda. Forsyth voters also will be asked to choose between Alissha Woody and Joe Allen to serve a one-year term on the school board. The Bradleyville School Board candidates are Randall Cummings, Darla Day and Jackie Adams. Two will be elected to serve three-year terms. Taneyville candidates include Austin Sutton, Steve Firestine and Matthew Smith. Only two of these candidates will be elected to the school board. Hollister School District voters will elect two board members from a field of three candidates that includes Dan Crisp, Rose Shook and Carl Bonnell. Spokane School District voters will be asked to choose two out of the three candidates for school board, These include Sharon Bishop, Shane Brown and John Armitage.
Every school board election in Stone County on Tuesday is a contested race. In each school district, voters will be asked to select two candidates to serve three-year terms on the school board. Reeds Spring candidates include Richard Porter, Steve Morey and Karla Bauer. The Galena School Board candidates are Angela Stewart-Foster, Steve Miller and Ben Sorrell. For the Blue Eye School District, candidates include Tim Reagan, Joe Watson, Brian Mitchell, Jimmy Kiser and Lisa Blevins. Shell Knob candidates are Susan Beck, Lisa Fielder and Bob Stewart. Crane School District voters will decide between Bruce Steele, Andy McCullough and Dennis Ford. School board candidates for Clever School District are Justin Peebles, Christopher Garrett, Shawn Akins. Hurley School Board candidates include Mary Flood, Regina Clark Elkins and Stacy Whittington.
Taney County voters will decide a number of contested municipal elections, but not in the cities of Branson and Hollister. Running unopposed are Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley, Ward One Alderman Bob Simmons, Ward Two Alderwoman Sandra Williams and Ward Three Alderman Stephen Marshall. Scott McCaulley is running unopposed for Hollister Ward One Alderman; likewise for Ward Two Alderman, David Willard, and for Municipal Judge, Randy Anglen. The city of Forsyth has two contested aldermen races. Running in Ward One are Joe Allen and Ronald Potter. In Ward Two, Michael Chipman and Larry Hertel. Rockaway Beach Mayor Larry Cline is seeking reelection, but faces opposition from Sue Riggs and Rick Reding. Fred Cravens is running unopposed for Ward Two alderman, but the race for Ward One alderman will be decided between Stuart Driewer, Judy Daniel and Robert Amos. Seven residents of the Village of Merriam Woods have signed up for three available seats on the board of trustees. Candidates include Jack Reese, Greg Buresh, Francis Diggins, Robert Parker, David Winne, Michael Wilkerson and David Pendleton. Aaron Rogers and Barbara Wehrman will be elected to the Village of Kirbyville Board of Trustees. Kirbyville also has a ballot iniative to increase the village sales tax from one-half percent to one percent for the purpose of operating, staffing and maintaining the village. For the Village of Bull Creek, Mary Mink and Jody LeMaster are running for the two available seats on the board of trustees. Three folks have signed up for three seats available on the Bradleyville Village Board of Trustees... John Combs, John Cook and Brandon Burkhart will fill these vacancies. And two elections for Public Water Supply District No. 1... In sub district number two, voters will choose either Rick Davidson and Todd Brown to serve as director, and in sub district number five, the race is between Thomas Nowacki, Benjamin Waldbuser and Keith David.
Contested municipal elections in Stone County include the Village of Indian Point Board of Trustees where two candidates will be elected from a field of four. Candidates include David Canaday, James Daily, Brett Stump and William Turner. The village also has a ballot proposal to establish a half-cent sales tax to provide revenue for transportation purposes. Voters will choose between John Battistoni and Mack Lawson to serve on the board of directors for Southern Stone County Fire Protection District. North Stone Northeast Barry County Fire Protection District voters will elect two directors from the four candidates on the ballot. These include Leon Cunningham, Jerry Brown, Carl Moore and John Mackey. Minnie Hazzard is running unopposed for Ward One Aldermen in Kimberling City. Ray Sims is running unopposed for the one-year term of Ward Two aldermen, while three candidates have filed for the two-year term of Kimberling City Ward Two Alderman... Jerry Sullivan, Albert Bray and Pancho Pancheff. Rhona Phipps is running unopposed for Ward Two Alderman in the city of Reeds Spring. Branson West voters will have the opportunity to vote on a natural gas franchise for the city. Nita Jane Ayres is opposing Mayor John Rhodes in his bid for reelection, and Alderman Bruce Jenkins has a ballot opponent who filed under the name "Shazer."

Branson Chamber VS Larry Milton (Internet Wars)

In a few months the Branson Chamber of Commerce marketing contract will come up for review which has Larry Milton and paid attack dog Gary "Little Milton" Groman foaming at the mouth and in the newspaper.

Branson.com, a direct sales firm, fraudulently bills itself as Branson's Official Website, a claim not only without merit but a title the Branson Chamber of Commerce is trying to take back.

As has been abundantly clear through Branson's new board of alderman , committee's can be designed to launder public resources and money to support personal financial interests and when it comes to benefiting from taxes allocated to Internet marketing, no company has reaped more direct financial benefit than Milton's privately owned time-share lead generation firms Branson Tourism Center and Branson.com.

The highly successful Search Engine Optimization (SEO) campaign the Branson Chamber has been executing through the help of their media buying firm Camelot promises to increase the tension. The Branson Chambers SEO campaign has increased web traffic by leaps and bounds but primarily competes with Branson.com's role as a direct sales outlet. When an Internet user searches for hotels, restaurants or general information about Branson they're already a qualified buyer. By no stretch of the imagination can this be considered a marketing mission.

While the Branson Chamber of Commerce has dramatically increased traffic through SEO, Milton has responded through acquisitions which include increasing presence and an ongoing financial relationship with the Groman clan. After purchasing domains from Groman, the continuing relationship allows Milton to control the editorial content Groman publishes.

Camelot's long term strategy is to increase Explore Branson's ranking with presence on more general travel related Search Engine Result Pages (SERP) and to populate the Internet with content that can directly benefit Branson businesses through direct traffic. In fact, during a presentation in Hollister today, representatives from the Branson Chamber cited traffic driven to individual Branson websites as a marker of their success.

Missouri Profiling of Conservative Groups - Editorial by District 62 Rep. Dennis Wood

Last week was mid-session break in the State Capitol. It gave me the opportunity to head home and spend time with my family and close friends. I even got to take a short vacation for four days. I was also able to meet with several of my constituents and local organizations and businesses in my district. Soon, the week came to an end and I headed to Jefferson City, ready to get back to business and reach across party lines to continue working for our state. Much to my dismay, my return was greeted with a shocking report from the Missouri Information Analysis Center. The report is a clear display that our freedoms and basic rights are now being bullied by Missouri’s governor and his appointed Public Safety Department.

As part of the Department of Public Safety’s intelligence gathering and dissemination to law enforcement agencies, the MIAC released a report with instructions as to how to identify members of the modern militia movement who may be domestic terrorists. The report, printed on state letterhead, points directly to Missouri citizens who support small government, gun rights, those who are pro-life and those who voted for Ron Paul, Bob Barr or Chuck Baldwin in the November 2008 election. The report accuses these people of being possible threats to our society. This means, if you drive down the street with a pro-life sticker on your car, you may be considered for criminal profiling by Missouri’s public safety officials and other citizens who may not believe the way you do.

Not only is this an act of political profiling, it is an infringement on our 1st and 2nd Amendment rights. Our great nation was founded on freedom; the freedom of speech, the freedom to have our own opinions and voice those opinions, the freedom of religion. These are all key components of the United States of America — our free country. American citizens should not be fearful that their beliefs regarding abortion, government size and other social issues separate them into terrorist categories. Unfortunately, Gov. Nixon doesn’t think there is anything wrong with this. He is throwing the ideals of our founding fathers out the window. In fact, the governor outwardly defends this practice by saying, “Getting information, especially public information, out of our fusion center out to local law enforcement agencies is what we do every day and what we’re going to continue to do. Any way they take that information and can analyze what the threat levels are is important to make sure the public stays safe.”

Undoubtedly, the MIAC report was an attempt by the governor to abuse his power and alienate those with conflicting beliefs. Not only is he infringing our basic rights, he is targeting right-wing groups. There is no mention of the left-wing groups related to his political party. If he is truly fearful of our Missouri citizens being criminals, he would include all groups; not just the side that opposes his personal beliefs. It looks to me like he’s against a third party and maybe the right side all together.

After much national and local media attention, the Department of Public Safety issued an apology. If you ask me, it wasn’t good enough. They apologized to Ron Paul, Bob Barr and Chuck Baldwin. They made no mention to those of you that they singled out for being pro-life, pro-guns, small government supporters, etc. Lt. Gov. Kinder called for the director of public safety, John Britt, to take administrative leave pending an investigation into this despicable political profiling done by MIAC. We can only hope he will follow the call.

Branson Official Government Handout Report March 25

Action taken by Branson Board of Aldermen at March 24, 2009 meeting
SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE BILLS
City contracts with local non-profits for emergency services
Aldermen approved on final reading service contracts with four non-profit agencies to provide
temporary emergency services for the homeless and families and individuals in need.
$30,000 will go to Christian Action Ministries
$ 5,000 to the Salvation Army
$ 3,500 to the Women’s Crisis Center
$10,000 to Branson Church Army
Sewer and annexation agreement for new development gets approval
Aldermen approved a sewer and annexation agreement with Tuscany on the Lake. This
development is 17 acres on Highway 265 just north of Chateau on the Lake and will contain
whole ownership condominiums. The agreement requires Tuscany to comply with city codes for
construction and landscaping.
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS (1st Reading)
Board approves agreement to fund Branson Arts Council
Board approved on first reading an agreement with the Branson Arts Council to provide funding
for community arts and cultural activities. The amount approved was $22,500. This item was
postponed two weeks ago when aldermen wanted more information on what programs and
services would be cut by the Arts Council as a result of this year’s funding, which was $18,000
less than in previous years.
Chamber of Commerce presents 4th quarter (Oct-Dec ’08) marketing report
Highlights:
Overall visitation in Branson during 2008 was about 8.1 million, down 3.7% or about
250,000 visitors from 2007.(This particular statement is intentionally misleading. The Chamber is referring to a two county area not Branson proper)
However, Branson’s sales tax revenues were up 1.9% and tourism tax revenues up 0.2%
in 2008. (This clarifies the note above)
Hotel room demand in 2008 was down 7.8% (People coming to Branson to shop from a 100 mile radius don't need hotels)
Sixty percent of visitors in 2008 came from 301 plus miles away; 25 percent from 101-
300 miles and 15% from 0-100 miles.
Average age of Branson visitor dropped from 58 to 57.
Percent of families visiting Branson in 2008 dropped from 44 to 37%.
Percent of first time visitors to Branson in ’08 was 23%.....up from 14% in ’07.
2009 Branson forecast:
Unrealistic to forecast significant growth in 2009. (This statement contradicts other statments proposed by the Branson Chamber of Commerce)
Early ’09 business activity in the Branson area shows some promise that Branson’s value,
location, product and marketing efforts may weather the stormy economy better than most
destinations, and could even lead to modest increases in visitation. (More accurate assesment than Mayor Presley's public campaign against the Branson Landing)
Taney County Health Department presented results of its 2008 Health Assessment
According to Robert Niezgoda of the Taney County Health Department, the results of the
2008 Health Assessment indicate the top three priorities for the county should be:
1. Tobacco use prevention (Great way to waste money on ads instead of addressing health care issues. This gives an excuse to waste money on media buys vs. non-smoking assistance)
2. Obesity, nutrition and physical activity
3. Child and family safety.
Niezgoda said other health priorities that need to be addressed include communicable
disease prevention and senior issues. He said the health department has increased educational
programs in the county to address these health issues, and has specifically targeted Branson and
Forsyth schools to conduct smoking prevention programs.