Branson, Missouri Ward III Alderwoman Beverly Martin Opts Not to Run For Re-Election

 
After four years as a Branson Alderwoman Beverly Martin opted not to seek re-election. In a press release delivered by the City of Branson Beverly Martin endorsed Ward 3 candidate Stephen Marshall from Chateau on the Lake saying, “With Steve I know that Ward 3 will be in good hands…he knows the issues facing our community and I believe he wants to see the continued economic growth that has propelled Branson to a new level of properity over the past five years.” 

Branson Political Factions - Branson Social Conservatives & Branson Economic Progressives

Two distinct factions have appeared on the Branson political scene. Though identified factions as a whole share values and individuals have unique perspectives' sharply divisive issues have prompted public appearances and stated opinions among identified party lines.

People and Characteristics
Branson's Social Conservatives - Slower /calculated growth; strong religious values; maintaining Branson's family friendly identity and established culture; Oppose TIF (Tax Increment Financing)
Sample Members
John Logan- Cartoonist
Gary Groman - Branson Daily Independent Columnist
Chuck Pennel - Taney County Presiding Commissioner
Jack Herschend - Owner Silver Dollar City

Economic Progressives
Branson's Economic Progressives - Favor Increased and development; believe Branson's future relies on engaging tourists from prosperous economic segments; Pro TIF
Rick Huffman - Developer of Branson Landing - HCW Partner
Jim Cox - Owner Branson Collector Car Auction
Mark Weiss - Commercial Real Estate Agent
Yakov Smirnoff - Comedian

****
Does this sum it up? What do you think?

Jay Bakker at the Branson Landing

Branson Landing Shot of Bakker Boys (Click to Enlarge)
The above photo was taken at the Branson Landing during the spring of 2006. Jay had some "business ideas" he was going to pitch his father Jim Bakker. During his stay in Branson, Jay appeared on the Jim Bakker show. His appearance was documented and filmed as part of a 6 part documentary appearing Wednesday and for the next five weeks on the Sundance Channel.
The impact of Jay's controversial political stances on his ministry will be discussed on the 2nd Part of the series this week in addition to the outcome of Jay's visit to see his father in Branson.

Mark Trimble's Hangar

 
(Click to Enlarge Photo)
Mark Trimbles hangar ....the man who sold Jim Cox the Branson Collector Car Auction for $1 Dollar. 

Branson Chamber of Commerce - Santa Vacations in Branson Video

Great little video the Branson Chamber posted on YouTube a few days ago. We've tried to keep it a secret...but looks like the secret is out. Santa hangs out in Branson..so should you.

Rick Huffman and Gary Groman

 
This photo was taken outside of Branson's last City Council meeting. "We have more views in common than not", professed local pundit Gary Groman aka the Ole Seagull before leaving the meeting nearly an hour before Branson Aldermen delivered a verdict on the fate of Huffman's proposed High Rise.
Huffman looked a lot more nervous than he let on. "We go where we're wanted", Huffman stated when asked about the apparent tension before the City leaders vote on the issue. 

Branson Approves Huffman's High Rise

(Click Play to View Video Clip)
An intensity filled the air as the fate of the project would clearly be determined by one vote. The Alderman were split voting 3 in favor and 3 against approval for the 300 ft. Structure before Mayor Lou Schaeffer cast the final vote approving the 26 story structure. The three Aldermen voting in favor of the high-rise were Stan Barker, Dick Gass and Beverly Martin. The three Alderman voting against the high-rise were Ron Huff, David Edie and Jack Purvis.
Before the Vote
The diversity of interests in Branson and opinions on the route, formation and type of development residents see as best for the city were represented at Branson City Hall before the second reading of Huffman's proposed high rise passed with City Approval. A surprise visit from Jack Herschend, Yakov's letter read from developer Mark Weiss and Salvation Army Captain Ron Keys pleas to the City of Branson Aldermen are contained in the above clip.