Branson Courier
- Today: Friday, May 9, 2008
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Editorials
Where's the conflict of interest actual, perceived or otherwise?
Ever since he took office in April of 2007, Alderman Stephen Marshall has been accused of a conflict of interest every time he mentions or questions the operations of the Branson Convention Center. ...
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The key to Branson's success is its workforce!
...at the end of the day, what will determine the ultimate success of Branson is the interface between the visitor and Branson's workforce. ...
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Spare lives - Slow Down in work zones!
...would not still be with us but for the reckless actions of Toeneboehn and his failure to simply slow down while going through a work zone. ...
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"Baa, Baa" not hardly, it's only an opinion!
Most of those who take the time to read an opinion column in a newspaper, this one or otherwise, are not the type of "Baa, Baa" people who will blindly follow the opinion of the columnist like a sheep. ...
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When does $140,732 actually equal ($87, 268) and 50% of $100 equal zero?
The answer to the question, "When does $140, 732 actually equal ($87, 268) and 50 percent of $100 equal zero is, "When reality is applied to the Branson Landing TIF." ...
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Bingo it is, Branson it is not!
Ironically, even as Branson is seemingly trying to evolve away from the history, heritage, and the type of entertainment that attracts millions to it every year, at least one other "Branson wannabee" appears interested in emulating that very thing. Well sort of. ...
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Could "Branson FamilyFreeFest" stoke Hot Winter Fun and market the convention center?
If Wisconsin Dells can do it for water parks all winter long, why can't Branson have a city wide event for three to six days over one or two weekends in the middle of January to extend ... ...
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Politics and business in Branson is a potential conflict of interest but give us a break!
Grizzly and a few others keep playing the potential conflict of interest card in Marshall's case while choosing to ignore it in the case of Williams and, in some cases themselves?
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Who was it that said they had never met a TIF they didn't like?
...who one votes for can influence the use and growth of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) within our community. What would have done the most to bring more people to Branson, $100 million spent on marketing all that Branson is and has or $100 million to develop Branson Landing?"
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Oh, hush my beating heart; HCW does own the city's convention center web site!
In a recent column concerning the Branson Convention Center web site, the Ole Seagull wrote, '"Oh hush my beating heart,' is it even possible that HCW is the registered owner of the Branson Convention Center web site that the city is spending thousands of dollars in taxpayer money promoting?" The answer is... ...
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Though April elections may come your way, they bring the TIFs which bloom in May
Unfortunately while the April rains might "bring flowers that bloom in May" Branson's April election may bring the TIFs that bloom in May.
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"It's the Marketing, Stupid" not the TIFs!
One can just imagine the excitement within the family as they are told that the highlight of their vacation will be the fire and light show at Branson Landing and a two for one hammer sale at Home Depot.
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Even Kimberling City can't win the pot unless they ante up, or can they?
In the game of Tourism Poker, it appears that the "Table Rock Lake Area Chamber of Commerce (TRLACC) wants to win $200,000 from the Missouri Division of Tourism without having the ante or the money to play the hand. ...
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Event Days aside, Branson's convention center wasn't built to make a profit, but...
One of the foundational documents used to support the building of the convention center in downtown Branson estimated that the convention center would have an annual net operating deficit of ($530,000) per year in... ...
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Could Branson's 300 foot building precedent and a skunk have something in common?
At the end of the day, if the process leading to a result has a stench, the result will stink. ...
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Gut feeling - Relax, Hilton is doing a great job with Branson's convention center!
...believes that Hilton is doing an excellent job in operating and marketing the Branson Convention Center. Does he have hard data on bookings etc. to back that up? No, that's why it's a gut feeling... ...
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Is Branson's convention center web site being used to promote select private entities?
The question is simple, "Is the city of Branson's convention center web site, paid for with tax payer funds designated for the marketing of its convention center, being used to market Branson Landing and the Hilton Convention Center Hotel, both of which are privately owned?" ...
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Branson's biggest news story of 2007 - "Earning back the benefit of the doubt position."
In terms of the local Branson news stories for 2007 that will have the most lasting impact on Branson, now and in the future, the April election for mayor and aldermen just has to be right up there. ...
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Can there be Christmas without CHRISTmas?
What does Christ have to do with CHRISTmas? Everything! Without Christ there can be no CHRISTmas. There can be a holiday, a season, festivals, and... ...
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Was it a really a fake "phantom battle in the War on Christmas?"
Verbiage such as "phantom battle in the War on Christmas" and "pro-Christ bunch" show a sensitivity on the part of the News-Leader's Editorial Board that is exceeded only by its arrogance and apparent lack of knowledge as to why the Branson Board of Aldermen need not fight the War on Christmas" because the "city's Christmas spirit is obvious and the 'war' is fake." ...
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Branson's resolution is about "Christmas" not the establishment clause!
The "Christmas Resolution" that the city of Branson's Board of Aldermen (the board) is voting on Dec. 10 is not an establishment clause or freedom of religion issue. From a pure legal, logic, and governmental function perspective it is a simple resolution of the board stating their support of Ozark Mountain Christmas and encouraging Branson businesses and residents to take actions that will support it. ...
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The gift for the person who has everything, Branson's Taneycomo Bridge closed for a year!
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Will Branson celebrate Christmas or some other neutered politically correct holiday?
Does Branson spend millions of dollars marketing Ozark Mountain Hanukah, Ozark Mountain Kwanzaa, Ozark Mountain Holidays, or some other form of a neutered politically correct version of Christmas? If it does it's one of the best kept secrets around. On th ...
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Thanksgiving is all about to whom the "Thanks" is "given!"
Perhaps Abraham Lincoln, in his 1863 Thanksgiving Proclamation said it best. "No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things..." ...
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Branson's Lake Taneycomo Bridge "Get-R-Done" steering committee
The seconds, minutes, days, weeks, and months available to avoid the shutdown of the Lake Taneycomo Bridge for about a year are sifting through the hourglass....the last second dropping through means that the Branson community lives with the results of wh ...
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TIF impact on Branson schools is stiff, no, on second thought, it's just plain nuts!
It's about the inherent unfairness and lack of logic in the way that Tax Increment Financing (TIF) deprives local school districts of the funds needed to service the educational needs created by the very growth that the TIFs are being used to create and f ...
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An Apology For Hiroshima and Nagasaki? Why?
The blood of her sons, and ours, staining the sands of remote Pacific Islands such as Peleliu, Okinawa, Saipan, Iwo Jima and others, solemnly testify to the futility of such an apology and of war itself.
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Hollister residents have a unique opportunity at the polls on Nov. 6
...a tax we not only don't pay but that can save us money! Do you think we are stupid?" Quite the opposite... ...
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To bridge or not to bridge is not the question - the question is economic development!
To an ole Seagull, it appears that a new bridge is a "carrot," that those wanting a tax for other purposes, are using in the hopes of getting access to funds for their pet projects. The truth of the matter is... ...
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Do Branson shows and Pogo have something in common?
Are there too many shows in Branson? How many shows are enough? Is the price of tickets a factor? How does the fact that a lot of shows and theatres sell their tickets to time-shares, ticket resellers, ...
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Down town businesses finally on Branson Convention Center web site - Thank you!
The primary reasons he wrote the column was because the web site not only ignored Branson's historic downtown district but also, although listing many other businesses in Branson, did not list any from the historic downtown district. ...
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Fishing for Lake Taneycomo trout relates to business success in Branson how?
A successful business environment for Branson's businesses requires the same thing that makes Branson's Lake Taneycomo the successful trout fishery that ...
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The Ole Seagull's Q and A on the proposed tax and downtown bridge
A simple Q and A on questions the Ole Seagull has been asked about the proposed economic development tax and the downtown bridge and, for what they matter, his responses ...
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Are Branson and Taney County voters being "steered" into a new bridge tax that they really don't need?
Is it just possible that no new sales taxes are needed to build a new bridge and avoid the closing of the Business Highway 65/MO 76 Bridge across Lake Taneycomo? But even if they are, how is it possible... ...
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"Where's the beef" that brings millions to Branson?
"Where's the beef" that built Branson to the point where it is today? The simple fact is that the "beef" that built Branson to the point where it is today is... ...
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Isn't half right still wrong in Branson?
"Is a person who makes it half way across Highway 65 before getting hit by a dump truck traveling at 60 miles per hours "half right" or a hood ornament? ...
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If Branson's blighted land is worth $100,000 per acre why isn't a skateboard a bicycle?
In a city where legalistic manipulation and interpretation has been used to call land that a developer was reimbursed over $100,000 an acre for "blighted"... is it any surprise that a "bicycle" could meet the legal definition of a "skateboard?"
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Why aren't more people playing at Branson's shows?
Branson's marketing brand proudly proclaims to the world the illusion that "Someone you love is always playing in Branson." What the message doesn't promise is that the "someone" will "always" be "playing" in a show or theater and that's not necessarily a ...
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Is Branson's concern about affordable housing a conspiracy to curtail growth?
How can a reasonable person interpret a possible conspiracy to "curtail commercial business growth" and "an attempt to curtail wage increases and stifle the job market" from a statement reiterating the generally held community belief that there is a need ...
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Isn't Branson Landing's public square truly "our" public square?
The truth of the matter is that for the next 99 years or so, the public square at Branson Landing is not "owned" by the public. Yet, never has the public had more access to, or made more use of, the area occupied by Branson Landing's public square. ...
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What does the firing of Branson's city administrator or attorney have to do with liquor regulation in Branson?
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Branson's Namegate or beer the basis for the opinions is what is important!
the major guiding percepts for criminal investigators, reporters, columnists...Kipling wrote "I keep six honest serving-men, they taught me all I knew; their names are What and Why and When And How and Where and Who." ...
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Is there Highroad "Deja vu" involved with the closing of Branson's Taneycomo Bridge?"
The question is simple, how will the closing of the "Business 65 Bridge" over Lake Taneycomo for a year or more impact on the Branson community and the lives of the thousands of people and the many businesses that use and depend on it daily, in terms of s ...
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Was Branson's "Bransongate" over annexation and strip clubs or ball games and dollars?
The recent "Bransongate" embarrassment was couched in terms of preserving the "purity" of Branson's name from those who would deflower it but... ...
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Happy Birthday America - "Remember the Alamo"
What is it about the Alamo that has touched the hearts and souls of generations since? What are we to remember? Was it their courage or that they spent their lives for a noble cause?
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Let's "park" Branson Landing as the reason for downtown's business "ouch!"
Not really because to do that, one would have to assume that the downtowns parking problems are all the fault of Branson Landing and that simply is not the truth.
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Branson's elected officials are regaining the "benefit of the doubt position"
Branson's government had "lost the benefit of the doubt position." ...
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What came first, "the chicken or the egg" or Branson's "the Dodink before the Dapprich?"
Branson Alderman says, "I made that Statement Mr. Groman because Mrs. Dapprich has used all kinds of verbiage to describe us from snakes to other descriptive adjectives. That's why I made that statement."
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What "We believe" is Branson's past and its hope for the future!
What will bring visitors to Branson is the expectation of experiencing what they believe Branson is, shows, shopping, attractions, family entertainment, lakes, values, etc. What will bring them back to Branson, or not, is the actual experience they have w ...
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Will Branson's public comment meeting procedures change without your input?
Any changes to this Section can either enhance the opportunity for open government and the effective exchange of information between those wishing to speak and the city of Branson's elected representatives or reduce that opportunity. ...
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Was the "Branson Name Issue" resolved by "Different ears listening" or the difference between "directed" and "directing?"
At the May 29 meeting of the AE board of aldermen they voted unanimously to rescind the current program which the BE board initiated in the Fall of 2006 to try to give the city of Branson rights to the name "Branson" that it did not have. ...
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Randy Travis to appear at Branson's RFD TV-The Theatre followed by Branson's first 2007 Polka Festival
Country and gospel superstar Randy Travis is coming to Branson for a concert series this week at RFD TV-The Theater. Travis ...
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Some Branson businesses "don't and won't" even while Branson is booming?
branson_area_District_TCED_Board_Aldermen_Lakes_Area_Convention_Visitors_Bureau_visitors_Golden_Coral_ ...
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Could the answer to Branson's packet problem be as simple as 1 + 2 equals 3?
The city of Branson's newly elected mayor and aldermen are taking a novel approach to the governing of the City of Branson. They actually want to participate actively in the development... ...
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"Ad nausea" or "nausea," take your pick but isn't an apology due?
Were an Ole Seagull a betting bird he would wager that the only thing "ad nausea" about the details of all the agreements that the city of Branson entered into was the repeated use of Missouri's Sunshine Law exceptions to keep details like these from the ...
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Is Grizzly coming after the Ole Seagull or the newly elected government of Branson?
Come to think of it, why would an Ole Seagull or anyone else for that matter, pay any attention to the unsupported allegations of someone hiding behind a cloak of anonymity as they personally attack someone else? ...
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Fear not, the taxpayer doesn't have to get gigged for Branson to continue to grow!
that the type of growth that has made Branson what it is today is entrepreneurial growth. The type of growth where people invest their own... ...
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Survivor Branson - mayor and alderman voted off but look who survives!
They replaced them with those who pledged that, if elected, such arrogance "would not stand" and to try to earn back "the benefit of the doubt position" from the community.
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Branson's future is at stake and the Ole Seagull's take - Vote Apr. 3
He supports Raeanne Presley over the incumbent mayor Lou Schaefer because of her policy on growth, her proven credentials to lead Branson into the future, her willingness to address an "attitude at city hall that boarders on arrogance" and her pledge that ...
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In dealing with the leadership of the city of Branson, do a fire hydrant and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have some ...
By treating the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the same manner as it treats some of its citizens and businesses, has the current leadership of the city of Branson has done, in their morning bowl of cornflakes, what a male dog does to a fire hydrant? ...
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Keeping an Ole Seagull in perspective
..."a lowly seagull walking along after the horse in the parade picking at the droppings" who is the 66 year old grandfather of seven, an independent columnist, and editor and publisher of the Branson Courier, an online newspaper about the live family ent ...
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Why won't Branson's mayor or a board of aldermen member say, "I'm sorry?"
...just has to believe that Dapprich is due an apology for what the city of Branson, under the color of law, did and attempted to do, in its Sep. 15, 2006 letter to her. ...
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Is there a different set of rules for those in power in Branson and those fishing the boardwalk?
It's what it represents that's important, the application of the law fairly, to all, without regard to social, economic, or political status, or position within the city of Branson's pecking order. ...
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Even without casino gambling Branson rolls a 7 to start 2007!
...it is extremely unlikely that casino gambling will come to Branson in the near future, if ever, and that Branson is poised for...
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Does this mean no Hilton Serenity bed at Branson Landing for the Ole Seagull?
Can any reasonable thinking person really believe that the opinion of one columnist can divide any city, let alone one like Branson with its many extremely talented ...
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Does the city of Branson's Cloud Law trump Missouri's Sunshine Law?
Does the current administration of the city of Branson look for ways to promote the Sunshine Law policy or circumvent it? ...
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"Uponst Thy Glorious Moon I Hath Gazed" or not!
An Ole Seagull knows he's going to be humming "Blue Moon" when he gets both the "full moon" and "a" moon trying "to correct his errors" all in one day. ...
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Is the city of Branson's use of TIFs a factor in raising school district taxes?
...it is inconceivable that the city of Branson's use of TIFs is not, in the very least, a contributing factor in the school district having to ask the voters for the tax increase ...
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The foundation for Branson's future success is the same as for its past success, values!
...could build two Branson Landings, neigh five Branson Landings, and they would not do as much for Branson's brand as our values and the perception that our visitors have of them.
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First Place for the 2006 Branson's news story of the year goes to "First PLACE"
A commitment to foster a community where character is highly valued and intentionally taught. ...
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Does this provide an insight into the reality and truth of "guess who?"
Do the very carefully chosen choice of words used by Branson City Administrator Terry Dody provide an interesting and revealing insight as to his version of reality and truth as compared to the way that most other people would view them under similar circ ...
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Can there be Christmas without CHRISTmas?
If we keep the spirit of the Christ Child and His love in our hearts and share it with others, Christmas, in its truest sense, will be with us everyday of the year, Merry Christmas folks, Merry Christmas. ...
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Can one assume that someone having a responsibility to enforce the law actually knows the law?
To paraphrase Paul Link, "I guess I should not assume that someone having a responsibility to enforce the law would actually know the law but Paul Link is entitled to his opinion ...
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Is Dody right, should the record reflect "that the board is taking no action in violation of our city ordinance?"
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To slight of hand, song and dance, and illusion doth the sky scraper owe?
To an Ole Seagull, taken in total, the presentation appeared to be an arrogant attempt at justifying the unjustifiable ...
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Can it be, the "Dodink Magic and Variety Show" appearing in Branson city hall?
..should involve drama and perhaps a little "song and dance" should the decorum of two of the city of Branson's highest paid senior level management employees at recent board meetings come into question. ...
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The logic of "Tweedledee" and "Tweedledum" city of Branson style!
...he tapes reflect is that two of the city of Branson's senior unelected, executive level employees delayed or interrupted the proceedings, disturbed a speaker, and spoke during the Public Comment Meeting of the board of aldermen without registering, all ...
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"Doty" could be "Dody" but the city of Branson could never be "Branson!"
...is the type of cart before the horse logic that undervalues what makes the city of Branson financially relevant and overvalues the city of Branson's contribution to what has made Branson what it is. ...
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Does Branson need an SOB to save it from the city of Branson and its "Dodink Law?"
What city in its right mind would treat the very theatres, attractions, other entertainment venues, and the lodging industry that has made it so successful as the "financial incubator" for the "New Branson"... ...
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Is Missouri's Stem Cell Initiative Amendment using an elephant gun to hunt mice?
To him the primary issue is how those very important, and complex, issues are best addressed. Is it through the "one amendment covers it all approach," as interpreted by the courts, or the through his elected representatives and the legislative process? ...
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NAMEgate Abuse Grows in Branson
Thankfully, the City of Branson is not the real "Branson." ...
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Wouldn't it be better for "Branson" if the City of Branson changed its name to the "City of New Branson?
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Mea culpa, couldn't a 25 story skyscraper symbolize the experience and expectation that is "Branson?"
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Give us a break, the City of Branson can keep the term "Dodink" but leave "Branson" alone, please!
"Dodink Law." In the instant case it's the kind of law that appears to try to intimidate and coerce by... ...
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The New Branson philosophy: Build for "Those who come, not those that are here."
What "New Branson" without the seven million plus visitors that the "Old Branson" generates? ...
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At least ten things that the Ole Seagull is positive about!
more to do with the marketing strategy...than either Branson Landing or the convention center combined. ...
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It's about respect, intent, integrity and ethics not the legalistic and $500,000!
But the Branson City Tourism Tax wasn't conceived in a vacuum. ...
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Will Missouri's proposed Stem Cell Research Amendment "clone" either good law, common sense, or human beings?
...both supporters and opponents alike have forgotten the old adage attributed to Abraham Lincoln, "You can fool some of the... ...
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The Dodymesiter and Branson Legal meet Lady Justice
City of Branson could not even prove that a crime had been committed. ...How embarrassing to the city is that?
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What's more "gorgeous" Branson or the new Hip Branson of Gucci, Armani, and Prada?
the problem is not Branson's current product but making ... ...
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How little engines, masochists, and penguins relate to casino gambling in Rockaway Beach?
...and you can see why the "Little Rockaway Beach Casino Engine" just might keep chugging along saying, "I think I can, I think I can, …. ...
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"Ah yes my little chickadee," the missing Link between Alice and Wonderland and the city of Branson!
Said another way, Link's stated fact is simply not true.
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The reality of purple petunias and the serving of alcohol at Branson Landing
...it is legal for vendors on the "public square" in Branson Landing to sell cups of beer ... ...
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Talk about gambling in Branson, for what does it profit a community to gain a few bucks, and forfeit its values?
...a New Branson where anything is all right as long as it ... ...
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Even in Branson if it contains sex like pornography, offends like porography...
...the issue is with the commercial exploitation of obscene material not with the morality of any individual or ... ...
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"Remember the Alamo" - The Spirit of America
What is it about the Alamo that has touched the hearts and souls of generations? ...
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We got porn my friend, right here, I say porn right here in Branson City but, where's Branson's moral indignation?
It's about the character of our community. the family friendly values ... ...
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Should the businesses that make Branson what it is be treated in such a shallow manner?
Even worse is not simply the shallowness of the professionalism and integrity involved with the attempt but ... ...
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Will the City of Branson be coming for your customer list next?
City of Branson uses mass mailing to require Branson businesses to send their customer lists to the city... ...
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What's important is what Branson Landing is, not what it is not!
The opportunity to experience something that is unique not only lin Branson but in the entire world.
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Memorial Day - The "risk" that preserves our Nation
America's Armed Forces and their families have paid the price for the freedoms and privileges that we... ...
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Can a national identification card help solve security and illegal immigration problems?
Identification - the key for national security and for controlling illegal immigration. ...
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FirstPLACE for the most exciting thing to happen in Branson last year goes to…?
....foster a community where character is highly valued and intentionally taught.
...
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Does Branson's "blight" increase the chance of eminent domain being used to take your property?
The City of Branson...proven itself to be the master of "statutory blight"... ...
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The truth is that "Branson" is an expectation not a city or a TIF
The basis for this "truth" is contained in the answers to three simple questions. ...
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Is "Branson Legal" the same as moral or ethical?
...loop holes in laws that people find, exploit and abuse every day... ...
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Perseverance, the two edged sword
A sword that can effect lives for either good or bad because... ...
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Doesn't Branson's Tourism Community Enhancement District Board hide its TIF concerns well?
Where was the Boards concern when it could have done Branson some good? ...
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What are the odds of casino gambling ever coming to Rockaway Beach?
But what if the "new Branson" decides that it needs gambling to be successful... ...
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Branson's Branson Landing can not fail but will it be successful?
The politics, egos, money, and City of Branson support...virtually assure... ...
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A Branson tale, Bobblin Hood and his merry men
...inherently wrong...for Branson ...to constantly feed its own economic growth at the expense of its neighbors... ...
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Honestly, can there be honor without honesty?
No one is born with personal integrity and honesty ... ...
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Editorial Cartoon - Of course you can trust us with your ports
John Logan, Branson's premier editorial cartoonist, draws his impression on the U.S. Ports deal with the Arab Emerites... ...
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Just how much can Branson "fool" public sentiment?
Public sentiment is everything. With public sentiment, nothing... ...
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A slogan for the new Branson - "Millions, millions for the new Branson, nor a dollar for Branson"
"Branson" was built by families who literally invested their lives and fortunes to build it ...
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The Soldier's Commitment - honoring their word to their country and each other
...being true to their word, to an oath taken, their fellow Soldiers, and honor, the Soldier's Commitment.
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Branson cannot serve two "cools" will it be Branson Cool or Hip Cool?
"Branson Cool" ...warmth, family friendliness, and hospitality combined with an "excellent or first rate." family entertainment experience. ...
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The story of the year for 2005, "Branson wins Tif-man Championship?"
the City of Branson has a seemingly insatiable greed to use TIF (Tax Increment Financing) regardless of the cost to its citizens and neighbors.
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"Happy Holidays" or "Seasons Greetings" my foot, 'Merry CHRISTmas!"
The "Grinch" never came any closer to stealing the meaning of Christmas than has being "politically correct." ...
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Merry Christmas
...or, in the spirit of that love, a Happy Hanukah, Happy Kwanzaa, or just the joy, peace, and love of the Christmas Season. ...
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Bah-Humbug editiorial cartoon on Branson's use of the TIF
John Logan, Branson's premier editorial cartoonist's impression of latest antics of the Branson TIF Commission ...
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This is Branson, Missouri - "Happy Holidays" nothing, "Merry Christmas" to you too Wal-Mart!
... insipid little Wal-Mart smiley face...slashing Christmas from Wal-Mart stores.. ...
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Branson, TIF if you must but satisfy the concerns of those who are educating our children, please!
Branson cost area taxpayers millions to keep big boxes out of Hollister. ...
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Will the city of Branson and its marketing partners keep faith with the voters?
Will Branson be able to market competatively? ...
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"Hail Caesar!" the theme for the "new" Branson?
At the end of the day Branson's will still be Caesar..."Hail Caesar!" ...
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Thanksgiving is all about to whom the "Thanks" is "given!"
...to stop and give "thanks" to Almighty God for the many blessings he has ... ...
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Even so citizenship, if it has no works, is dead, being but a word
Citizenship starts with individuals, families and homes... ...
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It simply makes sense for Branson- vote "Yes" for tourism and our future
...the majority of the people coming to Branson like what they experience and return. ...
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Is Branson's marketing heart on life support?
Marketing is to Branson what the heart is to the body and... ...
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A question for Branson's elected and appointed officials, "Would you like to be treated this way?"
What an excellent opportunity for the city of Branson to demonstrate ... ...
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Free at last- the new county of Freeus replaces the Western District of Taney County?
...eastern and western Taney County live in two different worlds. ...
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What did the four laning of Highway 65 into Branson have to do with the "effective" and "efficient" marketing of Branson?
That while trying to attract the new visitors necessary to keep Branson's ... ...
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Do local Branson residents pay the bills for local government if the retail sales tax doesn't?
...75 percent or more of Taney County's operating budget comes from the retail sales tax that is collected in Branson... ...
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Branson's Highroad - a functional traffic relief artery or a hiking and biking trail?
Both exits are miles away from Branson's core of activity and its alternate traffic relief routes.
...
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Aren't Branson's children worth a little "Respect?"
It also shows that we value and honor the character traits being taught and their efforts to learn them. ...
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We're not in Doodyville any more Toto we're in Branson Missouri, aren't we?
Why would anyone, except a masochist, vote to subject themselves to such treatment by the City of Branson?
...
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Character takes First PLACE within our community
Character is acquired. It is learned and developed on a daily basis... ...
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Should Branson change the name Ozark Mountain Christmas to Ozark Mountain Holidays?
...that ought to be "Merry Christmas USA" it should be Branson, Missouri. ...
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"Isn't Branson Landing just another Branson shopping mall that is located on the shores of Lake Taneycomo?"
It is a unique shopping entertainment destination, within Branson... ...
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In Branson, don't mayors, aldermen, city administrators, and seagulls have to follow the law like everyone else does?
...should have followed the law and set an example for the rest of us to follow.
...
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Who was that masked Branson alderman? - Hi-Yo Blunder Away!
...used the "color" of a city response to publicly accuse a specific individual.. ...
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Branson's "Minutes" of positive and caring leadership
...it's ...about how people are treated, basic fairness, and positive and caring leadership. ...
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"Remember the Alamo" - The Spirit of America
May that Nation "Under God," be eternally blessed with that spirit, for without it, She would not .... ...
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Aren't Branson Landing and Powder Keg "something" necessary for Branson's success?
that wonderful "something" that keeps things new and exciting and gives people... ...
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Branson's economy is just one big pineapple cream pie?
Without more tourists what happens to Branson's retailers? ...
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"The vestige of slavery that has divided our nation for all these years" is?
Is the term "African American" a term of unification or division? ...
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One down two to go before the tourism tax vote?
...two things could be done to increase the chances of that happening.
...
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Memorial Day - The "risk" that preserves our Nation
...America's Armed Forces and their families have paid the price for ... ...
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The "silver bullet" that Branson entertainment needs - "Hi-Yo Silver Away!"
...when people come to Branson for the first time they like what they experience... ...
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Americas "nobleness" - Her Teachers
America's future lies in the hands of her teachers! ...
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Please, no "registration fee" for Branson's Vietnam Veterans Operation Homecoming!
What a curious way to give someone the homecoming they never received. ...
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Sewers have a stench but this much?
Branson is the entity most qualified to act as regional provider of sewer... ...
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The game of Seweropoly between Taney County and Branson is a real stinker!
...health hazards caused by leeching septic fields and overflowing septic tanks... ...
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Is Branson a "headache and a pain in the neck" for Missouri's Sunshine Law?
...Aldermen hold closed meetings that the law doesn't require them to... ...
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Why won't Branson's major shows and attractions support the Gas Busters program?
Is the real purpose of Branson's Bas Buster Program to get "free" publicity? ...
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Is Branson's outrageous shame, not protecting its pedestrians?
...the nearest pedestrian cross walk is not a viable choice...there are none.
...
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Will Branson's children being educated in 2012 be as blessed as those being educated in 2005?
..what should be the primary concern, the quality of the education that... ...
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Is it new stuff that will enable Branson to prosper in 2006 and beyond? Not hardly!
It's remaining true to Branson's values and family entertainment roots... ...
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The common thread from conception to eternity is cooperation!
Life's a lot fuller for those who love to cooperate with others ...
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The meaning of Easter - "So that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life!"
He is risen "so that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life!" ...
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Numbers, even Branson style, represent dollars, lives, years etc.
Numbers generally don't mean too much by themselves but... ...
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A branding study, a promise, and Branson's future
...an attempt to capture the unique character and values of Branson.. ...
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Is the city of Branson being "serviced" out of millions of dollars in tourism taxes?
same lodging and same ticket price...tourism tax paid should be the same. ...
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Branson's "Bikings," pillage and plunder and then ask school district taxpayers, "What's in your wallet?"
The Bikings, the Branson Board of Aldermen and City Administrator Terry Dody, have created the problem ... ...
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Is the city of Branson on the hook for up to $52.5 million and climbing?
If it looks like an obligation and has to be paid like an obligation isn't it an obligation?"
...
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Branson Landing - "A Train Track Runs Through It" is the name of a movie or a symphony, isn't it?
A pedestrian walkway would provide functionality, convenience, and cohesiveness. ...
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Was a "deposit" instrumental in both the birth and death of Branson's Liberty Tree?
It wasn't what was done. It was the way it was done! ...
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Branson asks Mayor Lou and the incumbent aldermen, "Will you be my Valentine?"
People do get the type of government they want and deserve!
...
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Alleluia, at last my prayers have been answered; it's not the "Chamber Tax" anymore!
...the tax was deficient in terms of accountability, efficiency, and, most of all fairness. ...
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Not everyone wants to live in Branson's Briar Patch
John Logan, Branson's premier editorial cartoonist, shares his impression of being involuntarily annexed into the "big city." ...
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If there's no "Merry Christmas" in Branson, Missouri now, then where and when?
... isn't Christmas the official government name of the holiday being celebrated? ...
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Should this man be elected?
"I have no purpose to introduce political and social equality between the white and black races." ...
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Australians did not get $5 million and other Branson Landing Info
Branson Landing answers from Branson City Administrator. ...
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Fountains over people, isn't the new Branson amazingly obvious?
Is it possible that more planning, funding, and priority has been given to Branson Landing's fountain by those governing the City of Branson than to insuring that access to the areas only emergency room is maintained? ...
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A cartoon, a consent order, and a Branson Landing "Bingo"
...serve as the poster child for the impotency of Missouri's election laws ...
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Are "values" necessary for the success of both President Bush and Branson in 2005?
"...the millions of voters...who said that moral values was the single issue that mattered most to them." ...
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"Happy Holidays" or "Seasons Greetings" my foot, 'Merry CHRISTmas!"
The "Grinch" never came any closer to stealing the meaning of Christmas than has being "politically correct." ...
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With the wrong vision historic downtown Branson is a "dead man walking"
...are creating a new vision to revive the old sector... ...
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Branson, the expectation and the "Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire"
There is no way to judge "the future but by the past." ...
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A one percent retail sales tax on "Pampers" to bring more people to Branson?
...it seems as if the Branafia has eaten one Burger King too many. ...
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Thank "who" for "what" on Thanksgiving?
"No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things." ...
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Prospective first time visitors to Branson ask, "Can you hear me now?" - Branson better hope so!
...make sure your marketing strategy will accomplish what it is you want it to accomplish before you spend millions of dollars on advertising. ...
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The federal judiciary - the perfect example of "absolute power corrupts absolutely"
...they are not elected, serve for life, and are without accountability... ...
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A Halloween scare - The shortest war since the "six day" war between Israel and Egypt in 1967
One would be hard pressed to deny the reality of the active struggle going on between Branson and Hollister... ...
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Give me a break- paying a tourism tax is a good investment for residents?
...marketing funds that it needs to effectively market all that Branson has to offer.
...
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Big box TIF at Branson Hills is a no brainer!
...driving a nail. Both a rock and a hammer will get the job done... ...
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The TIF show and an Ole Seagull's simplified "but for" TIF test
It will reduce the number of TIFs, their size, and put the risk where it belongs. ...
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Nixon and "Watergate" - is this Branson's "Treegate?"
...Dody appears to "be a fountain bubbling over with misinformation"... ...
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"In Cold Sap" - a story of better government through communications?
...murdered, with chainsaw buzzing and chips a flying, the "Jimmy Jet's Tree"... ...
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Say it's not so, a travel "time bomb" for students and staff traveling to the high school?
...when the next accident ...will be fatal.
...
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"Fuel" for thought - who needs "full-time jobs with benefits that aren't seasonal?"
Well golly gee whiz, so the key is to... ...
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Score: "Birds and Trees," 10 - "City of Branson, DBMA, and Downtown Restaurants," 0
...and sing "kumbaya" or is someone going to ...address the problem?
...
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Independent my foot- it's "my way or the highway" and it's my Highway!
Ron Herschend.."I believe we need a different vehicle to address the issue." ...
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"Family friendly" Branson has no say on the serving of alcohol in its theaters and attractions?
ignored the expansion ... of intoxicating liquors into...theatres and attractions ...
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God works His perfect will according to His timing for His purposes, you can bet on it!
Robert Low ..the fight's not over..."If you are right, you fight." ...
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On this "the word of God is clear"- He loves those that will vote YES on Amendment 1!!
...wouldn't our churches be "mired" in loneliness without us sinners? ...
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Amendment 1 would create jobs
...a "yes" vote on Amendment 1 will be good for Taney County and Missouri. ...
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Branafia egos too big for a "Godfather" but….!
the Highroad ...speaks volumes about the Branafia's... ...
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Branson, Rockaway Beach, Gambling and the World's Greatest Lies
If gambling comes to Rockaway Beach abortions will increaseand ... ...
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What's the better comparison Rockaway Beach to Las Vegas or Branson to Laodicea?
Of what value is Branson's vaunted environment of morality, Christianity, and family values... ...
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Branson, the 800 pound TIF gorilla?
...overly creative 800 pound TIF gorilla named .... ...
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"Truth" or "Droppings?" - The public is wise enough to know the difference!
...relate to the reality of what the column actually said about as much... ...
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Well Virginia you're right "It's just not fair!"
..their primary motivation has more to do with economics... ...
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Look, up in the sky, it's the "secret handshake clique" - no wait, it's the "Branafia!"
"What is the 'Branafia?" It's a term that .... ...
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Is the "Herschend Plan" inconsistently consistent or consistently inconsistent?
..."they" want to control what the voters get to vote on and ... ...
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Will crime and Viagra sales increase if casino entertainment comes to Rockaway Beach?
...we could not ask for better neighbors." ...
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If there's such a thing as a "good tax" the Branson Transportation Tax just might be it!
...best when residents and visitors alike travel on good roads... ...
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A Seagull's take on the separation of church and state - The Foundation
Can any reasonably thinking person really believe ... ...
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Is the "Secret Handshake Clique" alive and well?
"the city council and the city administrator are against this legislation." ...
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Once a "feat" always a "feat" but not if the "feater" is named "Fred!"
...the name he associated with the voice didn't have a first name of Fred....
...
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Do "they" give a hoot about letting the residents of Taney county vote on issues affecting them?
..interesting concept, letting people vote on issues affecting their county... ...
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"Yea! Yea! it's a WOW" of an "Easter," whoops sorry "Incentive," egg hunt at Branson Landing!
Branson Landing "incentive truth" is somewhat like an Easter Egg hunt. ...
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"Lemonade" from Highroad "prune" - at what cost?
"Highroad"...one of the heaviest traveled roads in southewest Miossouri? ...
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Based on the public record - shouldn't Branson city officials be commended?
Not "sainthood" just that we keep things in perspective... ...
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"Blue light special" On Branson Landing Incentives!
Could make Martha Stewarts problems seem like a "blue light special." ...
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Branson Board of Alderman Huff puffs "humor?"
Huff wanted to add humor...here's some potential "belly busters." ...
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Priority, dollars, image, and class - Branson Board of Aldermen style!
A rare glimpse into their deliberative process ... ...
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One Ward does not a "referendum" make!
Branson Landing will not be affected by Ward 1 results. ...
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Is the "Herschend Plan" worth the gamble?
How anyone who believed that something was a cancer, could sacrifice ... ...
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Is Branson gambling by ignoring the expansion of alcohol into its theatres and attractions?
...
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WOW, financially Branson Landing might not be WOW!
Some probably expect another column cautioning about the possibility of..but.. ...
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Does this add new meaning to C of O's Five Fold Mission or what?
College of the Ozarks fires the messenger keeps the problem. ...
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Is the success or failure of Branson Landing linked to its incentive process?
"Could the incentive process be prostituted?" Of course it could but... ...
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XMAS, Happy Holidays, Seasons Greetings or CHRISTmas?
Without CHRIST you can't even spell CHRISTmas..... ...
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Cost to city taxpayers for chambers private web site "millions" - benefit to the chamber "priceless"
Millions spent and city doesn't own a website! ...
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Without "Giving" There Is No "Thanksgiving"
To whom are we GIVING "Thanks?" ...
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Would Truman Apologize For Hiroshima and Nagasaki?
Truman said, "Let there be no mistake about it ...
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Billions to rebuild Iraq's infrastructure while ours is deteriorating - that's nuts!
The politicians start wars and the people they serve bleed, die ... ...
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HCW invests $180 million in what "has been likened to San Antonio's Riverwalk" or, is it the Titanic?
...investment in the project…is 180 million" where has it been spent? ...
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The "Odyspin Virus" - Part 2 - Liquor regulation in Branson is what "Odyspin" dictates
the expansion of the drinking of alcoholic beverages into its theatres ...
...
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Seagull Mussings- The "Odyspin Virus" - Part 1 - Silence the public
In the perfect illustration of "much ado about nothing," ... ...
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The State Auditor says "thank God" as an Ole Seagull says "God help us!"
At State Auditor's Audit Report presentation, on July 30, 2003... ...
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Is it still the "chamber tax?" Probably so but it doesn't have to be!
In its current form it's still the "Chamber Tax" but that can be changed. ...
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"Remember the Alamo" and celebrate its spirit
It represents that which is courageous, honorable, and worthy of commitment in the hearts of individuals and nations.... ...
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Let's go to the theatre, grab a beer, and complain about gambling in Rockaway Beach
What's the difference between drinking in Branson's theatres or gambling? ...
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It's "cockamany" - they report what they want to report the way they want to report it
Newspapers report what those who control them want them to...... ...
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Will the high road, drinking, and gambling help Branson - Like DUH!
What could the High Road have to do with gambling and drinking? ...... ...
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Teaching - nobleness in its truest sense
In terms of a "profession" America's future does not lie in the hands of Presidents, politicians, lawyers, doctors,.... ...
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WOW! A dire warning for Branson Landing?
Could a recent article, about the Wonders of Wildlife Museum ... ...
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"Y" is Branson "shook" up on the "trail" to a fitness center?
Why would both the City of Branson and the Tri Lakes YMCA are consider building, competing fitness centers? ...
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The "Seagull's View" on "Our View" - the voters have spoken!
Branson voters support Branson Landing 58% to 42%? ...
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Will the Governor "slobber" in his cornflakes too?"
City/developer STIF indiscretions could cause the Governor to ...
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"The buck stops here" - Governor Holden
Is Branson eligible for $23-80 million in State TIF? ...
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Americas "nobleness" - Her Teachers
America's future does not lie in the hands of Presidents, politicians,... ...
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Branson has the Highroad, how can it have traffic congestion problems?
What is the millions spent on the Highroad had actually been spent on solving Branson's traffic problems? ...
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Abide these nine, but the greatest of these is "responsibility"
Responsibility, taking ownership of what you say and do, is not a matter of choice. ...
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PLAN YOUR TRIP