9 Temmuz 2012 Pazartesi

The Band Perry's Debut Album Scheduled for Release October 5

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Republic Nashville’s The Band Perry - siblings Kimberly, Neil and Reid Perry - will release their first album on October 5.

The self-titled album will contain the trio‘s current single, “If I Die Young,“ #27/#32 on the Billboard/Mediabase singles charts. Written by the band, “If I Die Young” is now available on the trio’s self-titled EP, released in April and available through all major online music sites. “If I Die Young” is The Band Perry’s second single for Republic Nashville; their debut single, “Hip To My Heart,” was a Top Twenty hit. The lush, thought-provoking video for “If I Die Young,” directed by David McClister, (Lady Antebellum, LeAnn Rimes), was shot at Nashville’s historic Two Rivers Mansion.

This summer, the band is putting the finishing touches on their debut album while also working an ambitious touring schedule. Their concerts will take them from one end of the country to another, opening shows for such artists as Keith Urban, Brooks & Dunn, Alan Jackson and Zac Brown Band.
The Band Perry originally hails from Mobile, Alabama, and now make their home in eastern Tennessee. After spending years honing their performing and songwriting skills, their music caught the ears of Big Machine Label Group CEO Scott Borchetta and Republic Nashville president Jimmy Harnen; The Band Perry signed to Republic Nashville in the summer of 2009.

Lo Hicimos!

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YAY! NaBloPoMo 2011! We did it! I DID IT! Ha Ha!!!

If you have children who watch Dora the Explorer, you will recognize the above title as a phrase she sings at the end of each show. After they have completed their mission the characters all dance around and sing "We did it! We did it! Lo hicimos!"

This time it went by faster and easier than last year. Maybe I am just getting better at it.

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In dairy news.

On Monday, as I blogged, we got rid of one bull. Now we need to get rid of the other AND find 2 new young bulls. Hubby called one Holstein bull breeder, but he didn't have any at the moment.

Hmmmmm....

Tomorrow we are going to take about 7 of our "extra" young, open heifers down to the Norwood Special Cow Auction. I think this is located somewhere past Mansfield. Hubby will drive the truck and trailer. Ellen and I will ride in the "chase car" in case hubby has a breakdown. We always carry our walkie talkies with us.

Yesterday Ellen and I made some sugar cookies. This is the first time in my adult life I can remember making sugar cookies. They turned out pretty well. Today we decorated them.

Today I also made the layers for a checkerboard cake. I am going to put it together on Saturday morning, I think, for our church dinner on Sunday afternoon.

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Well, I shall try to keep blogging regularly. We shall see.

Thanks for stopping by and reading!

Confessions of a Christmas Tree Grinch

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My husband has all but accused me of being the above when it comes to Christmas trees. Here, in my own words, is my story:

One of my favorite Christmas pastimes as a kid was going to get the tree. Depending on weather conditions and time we would either get one from the National Forest Service land a mile or two from our place, or we’d pack up and go for a long drive into the mountains.

We lived in the Pacific Northwest, on the rugged North Coast of Humboldt County. Dad would pack up the old Ford truck, a couple of us kids would pile in and off we would go, further inland, higher up into the wild. Up, up we would go until we’d break through the coastal fog layer into the sun, the fog a roiling gray sea below. And still up we would go. Eventually we’d get to Willow Creek, a town whose fame has something to do with the Bigfoot legend. I remember every year we’d see the town’s life-sized wooden statue of the furry creature, and we’d speculate on the possibility of seeing him for real that particular year. In Willow Creek there’d be a quick stop at the Forest Service office to purchase a permit to cut trees and wood, then on we would go, switching back and forth across the mountains, watching the ravines yawn deeper below us as we went.

We would drive off onto logging roads until we found a likely-looking spot. Out we would clamber and begin looking for trees. Often times others had been there before and we would find various trees already cut and abandoned. Sometimes we’d take a couple of those along with our own special tree. We’d “plant” those extras out in the front yard and decorate them as well.

I remember as a child the magic of being up in the mountains, above the world it seemed. Sometimes it was super cold, with a dusting of snow. We would walk around and Dad would show us the scratches of a bear on a tree, the hollow in the weeds where a deer had slept, often still warm from its body. The silence there was awe-inspiring, broken only by a coyote’s yip or a distant chainsaw’s rip. We would eat a bit of lunch and then head back down home.

Now that my father has been gone for many years, those memories seem so fragile and remind me how fleeting life is, and of the elusive magic of childhood.

In my early 20s I left Humboldt and forged a life in a city far north; Portland, Oregon. In the city there were no magical drives to the mountains to get a tree; one just paid an unromantic price at the nearest store and voila; a Christmas tree, either real or fake. No mythical monsters or elusive wildlife; how plebian. In the 12 years I lived there, not once did I have a Christmas tree of my own. I enjoyed them vicariously through family and friends and that was good. But somehow in that time the magic of Christmas trees wore off. My mom, I believe, sent me a few ornaments, and I would put them up, but not on a tree.

Now I have been married for 7 years, and though I am back in the country, I am in hardwood country, not coniferous country. There’s a large difference; no tall mountains…etc. I can’t recall whether my husband and I had a tree my first Christmas here or not. I was so stressed trying to deal with the newness of life in Missouri and the pain of being so far from family that I don’t really think I cared one way or the other. The other years, saving the one when I was seven months pregnant and hubby actually DID go along to cut down a Charlie Brown tree for us, I have had to venture out myself and hack down an invasive cedar with the very dull blade hubby directed me to use.

Two years ago I went and got a tree with the 4-wheeler. Year before that I just hacked the top out of a tree from across the road. Then; last year I had the idea that I would begin giving my 3 year old daughter Christmas memories.

I loaded the ’99 Ford up, bundled Ellen in a warm coat, heaved her protesting little highness into the truck and went all of ¾ mile up the road to the dry cow pen. We bumped across the pasture along the fencerow until a fine specimen of a cedar struck my eye.

Ellen refused to get out of the truck. So during the half hour while I attempted to avoid a cow pie or two, hacked ineffectively with my dull saw, crawled back and forth under a barbed-wire fence, and fought to the blood with the thorn bush that was also claiming the cedar, Ellen hollered out the truck window at the top of her lungs; “I AM COLD! I WANT TO GO BACK TO THE HOUSE! MOM, LET’S GO HOME! I AM COLD!”

When we got back, finally, hubby was there to help with the tree. He used the saw to try to level the end off. After two scrapes across it he says; “I can’t cut anything with this dull thing, let me go get a better saw!” I got a bit grinchy at this point.. This is the saw he’d sent me out to get a tree with for the past 5 years! Hrmph! I let him know.

This year things were different. Ellen was excited to go get a tree, she got out of the truck and gave lots of helpful advice whilst I was avoiding cow pies and crawling back and forth under the barbed-wire fence...etc. I had a sharp saw, too. (Thank you, hubby.) So the invasive cedar fell much faster. Ellen helped put the decorations on; the ones we both love: the half-peeled banana, the PB&J sandwich, the candy canes, the ice-cream sundae, the kitty angels, the snowmen bells. And even the ancient ones my mom had; the little stuffed cloth elves that came on dish detergent bottles back in the 50s or 60s. Ellen was enchanted with all of them. I love to watch her joy.

However….in my book; once Christmas dinner is over, Christmas is over. The magic is gone and the mess is left. So for the past 6 years, while hubby is out doing chores and milking cows, I take down the tree. He has accused me of shoving the dinner guests out the door with the tree, but I am not THAT grinchy. I wait ‘til they are in their own driveway at least. Ha ha.

This year I even took a nap before I started dismantling the tree, so it was about 5 PM when the invasive cedar hit the yard. I am improving. Merry Christmas!

This Morning's Adventure

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The past week or so there has been a heifer up the road who was nearing her calving time. Yesterday she'd been off by herself, but nothing happened all day. Then this morning when I went to feed them I went in to check on her.

She was lying down, with the hooves and the nose of a calf sticking out of her rear. I took one look at the calf and thought; "It's all over for that one." Its tongue was hanging out of its mouth and it just didn't look good. I whacked on the cow but she didn't move; just laid there with her chin in the mud.

I was going to head back to get hubby, but then I saw something.

The calf's chin twitched. I thought I was seeing things. I chucked it a bit and sure enough, it moved again.

I whacked on the cow again, but still she would not move. I thought maybe I could herd her to the corral, but no dice.

So I ran back to the 4-wheeler, got hubby's nice new rope, put it around one of the calf's ankles, dug in my heels and started hauling away.

Nothing happened.

I took a fresh grip and leaned back into it.

The calf moved a fraction of a millimeter.

The cow looked around.

I kept pulling for all I was worth, and hollered at the cow. The calf moved a tiny bit more.

The cow decided things weren't so bleak and started to shove too!

YAY!

The cow gave a big groan, and shoved even more.

We had more movement. I hollered at the cow again.

She shoved some more and...

Finally the whole head of the calf popped out!

We paused a moment and then pulled and shoved respectively until the chest came out.

By this time we had an audience of about 10 other heifers in a half-circle behind us.

I hauled again and out slipped a nice heifer calf, steaming in the 30 some degree morning air. I heard the calf take a wheezing breath, so I whacked on her a bit, and turned her upright. It was just a second or two before she had her head up and was looking around.

I looked behind me and the rest of the heifers were there, along with the belligerent bull. So I made sure the cow knew the calf was there and skedaddled. I was worried about the cow not being able to get up, but she did later.

BUT...

Hubby went up there after awhile to bring them in and the cow had just taken off and left the calf, so hubby brought it in and cleaned it up and now I am thawing colostrum for it. Other than that she's doing OK.

Friendly Stray Cats...ARGH!!!!

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Never, never, but NEVER let a friendly stray cat steal your heart. Especially a tom.

Remember Boo? I think I blogged about him before, but I am not sure.

Anyway. He showed up here on the dairy sometime in September; a stray, just a thin black streak in the weeds. He'd visit my garbage/scrap pile.

It did not take long for him to realize that if he buttered us up he could get more and better food. He mews like a kitten and is quite calm and friendly. I did NOT want this cat. I wanted hubby to take him somewhere else. But Ellen fell in love with him: "He's my favorite color." (Go figure on that one.)

However, he has weasled his way into my heart too, the little black wretch. He keeps me company when I do chores in the mornings; follows me around, scrambles into the feed buckets and eats the calf feed (see number 2 below.). He will even ride on the four-wheeler with me.

He has two faults.

Well, three.

1) He is the kind of cat that loves to walk under your feet and seemingly attempt to trip you up.

2) He loves to eat...if I were to let him he'd eat himself sick. And indeed he has developed that urinary blockage deal that felines get when they get too much of the wrong diet.

Last Monday we had an emergency trip to the veterinarian. $67.77 He couldn't pee. This is fatal in a tom cat. This doesn't yet include vaccinations and neutering. Bless his sweet little heart. We have to wait 'til he recovers from his current ailments...and gets off of the antibiotics I would presume. (Vet was impressed I caught it so soon in an outside cat. Said inside cat owners often don't catch it until really late.)

This condition is bad to reccur. You needs must put the cat on a special diet.

Nice.

OR, the kind vet said you can put him on a raw meat diet. It'll work if you just substitute about half of his canned food with lean raw meat. The stuff you buy from the store.

We can't afford lean raw meat for OURSELVES much less a cat.

*sigh*

3) He pees in the house when I break down and let him inside.

If you ever want to see your significant other crawl, just let a tom cat come in and whiz somewhere in the house. You will see your significant other crawling around sniffing corners and walls and table legs to see where said obnoxious tom may have whizzed. You will probably be doing some crawling of your own.

However, if you mop the floor and swab down EVERYTHING (walls, cabinets, table/chair legs...ect) with Febreze cleaner, you just might get as lucky as I did and manage to eliminate the pee.

8 Temmuz 2012 Pazar

The Result of Domestic Violence

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My husband really ticked me off one day and this is what resulted...


Ha ha...no not really...

We had gone to Waynesville and Fort Leonard Wood one Saturday and came back late.

I made little pizzas for a really quick supper. I always use spaghetti sauce instead of pizza sauce because it's easier on our digestion for some reason.

In any case, I had a huge can of the stuff and was separating it out into smaller portions to freeze. Like a bonehead would; I got distracted and left a bag of the stuff propped up and still open on the counter. Well, as you might have guessed from the photo, it fell over and poured the better part of its contents all over my floor.

Just so you know; spilled spaghetti sauce will really smell up the place for a bit. And it's not fun to clean up either.

Adventures in Cooking

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If there is one thing I love to do in the kitchen it's to try new things. After all, who wants to keep eating the same boring stuff all the time, right?

Yes, well.

There is this place south of town that sells discount groceries once or twice a month. I like to go there and see what they have; different produce, bags of flour, pasta...etc. You just never know.

One day I found purple cauliflower:


It makes a very colorful dish of vegetables, doesn't it? I loved it. Hubby was a bit dubious. He said it had an odd flavor. I will concede; it DID taste different, but not really so I could put my finger on it. Maybe a bit sweeter.

Ellen liked it. She ate it right up. She loves vegetables.

At .50 cents a head, if it ever shows up again, hubby had better be prepared to eat purple cauliflower again. That's all I can say.

Wanna Have a Good Time...?

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Just come on over; there's no rules allowed here.



Ha!

When Ellen was much younger we made a sign of rules for her and posted them on the fridge. They are still hanging there, though most of them are pretty much outdated as they were more specific to her at a younger age. However, on occasion when we have to remind her that there are rules we must follow, she will get annoyed.

Also, ever since she has been old enough to notice and ask questions she has been fascinated with the slash/circle sign. She sees them all over; like over a picture of guns and knives on the door at the bank...etc. I told her it meant "No guns allowed."

So she put them together and come up with her "No rul allowed" sign. She left off the "es" when I was spelling it out for her.

This was actually a few months ago.

But now here lately she gets annoyed with the Matilda, the cat, who sleeps on her bed. (not that Ellen sleeps in her own bed, ever; she prefers the sofa...but that's another story for sometime later.) So Ellen made up her own "No Cats" sign. I am not sure if she thinks Matilda can actually read it or not. But she posted it on her bedroom door:


Of course Matilda is in there at this very minute, curled up on Ellen's bed.

Just call me "Rock."

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This blog is supposed to be about dairy issues, but it's more fun to talk about my child and her little eccentricities...if you could call it that.

On Monday she will be 5 years old. Sometimes I wonder if the things she does are normal or if a psychiatrist would find her a little off.

I guess pretending is normal; especially when you are an only child with no other playmates.

Lately she has been doing this roll playing thing where she asserts that she is no longer Ellen, but "Brionna" (who is actually a new girl at church)
and then she will ask me about Ellen; what's her favorite color, food...etc. She will continue in this vein for half hour or so. Woe betide me should I forget and refer to her as "Ellen."

When I am in the kitchen she generally refers to me as, "Mr Bakery Owner." She will come up to me and announce; "Hey there, Mr Bakery Owner, I am taking Charlie (the stuffed dog) for a walk. Just thought we'd stop in and say hello." Or she will just tell me whatever is going on, help with the dishes or cooking.

When we are out in the milk barn doing our chores she calls me "Rock" and pretends that we are in a train station. Do not ask me where she gets this one. "Hey, Rock, where is our next stop?"

Some other things she does make me laugh too.

While helping do the dishes she will sort the flatware in the holder; "The boys go over here, the girls go over there." The "boys" are the forks and the "girls" are the spoons.

Birthday Number Five, the story

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For the past few months Ellen has been asking for a "real" Barbie doll for her birthday. She has several 11 inch dolls, knock-off Barbies, if you will. But she knows the difference somehow; she wanted a REAL one.

I would rather she not have anything to do with Barbie dolls. I am not a Barbie fan; at all. However, you have to pick your fights. I have expressly forbidden anything "SpongeBob-ish" to appear in this house. Maybe I am wrong in this; maybe I should allow him and ban Barbie, but we all have our likes and dislikes. To me SpongeBob is much uglier than Barbie.

But I digress.

So I told my mom about the Barbie wish, and she said she'd get Ellen a Barbie. Behold an enchanted Ellen opening her Barbie:


Now behold what kind of Barbie my mother got for her. (Keeping in mind that you can hardly find just a Barbie doll; they must needs sell them in little sets or scenarios; jogging Barbie, baby-sitting Barbie, breakfast Barbie...etc)

Puppy potty training Barbie? Yep, you got it. You give the puppies a "drink" with their special bottle; make the girl puppy squat, or the boy puppy hike up his leg, then move their tail and they wet on their special paper that turns yellow in spots, and shows brown turds in other spots.

Lovely.

Let the paper pad dry and do it all over again.

My hubby and his family were not impressed.

I assure myself that she will soon forget this toy and I can make it disappear. But then again...maybe not.

7 Temmuz 2012 Cumartesi

Dinner Shows in Branson, Mo 2012, Yakov, Stampede,

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Dinner Shows in Branson, Mo in 2012 - Yakov, Dixie Stampede, Branson Belle, More...


2012 Branson Dinner Shows, Yakov, Dixie, BelleAre you coming to Branson, Mo in 2012 and would like to be experience a unique night of fun, delicious dining, and professional entertainment? I would strongly recommend going to a Branson Dinner Show and there are several reasons why....

I have lived in Branson for over 20 years and have seen the landscape change tremendously. New roads have been added that has relieved much of the traffic congestion, however before and after the shows traffic is still an issue.. Going to a dinner show allows you to be at the theater without fear of getting stuck in traffic during "pre-show" congestion.

I have been to most of the Dinner Shows listed below and I can assure you that you will be in for a unique experience. You will be served 4 course meals inside of the theater with wonderful entertainment. The only show I haven't seen below is the Circle B Supper Show (although I have heard some great things if you like Country Western Music). Below is a list of the 2012 Branson Dinner Shows along with schedule and tickets information.

2012 Branson Dinner Show AttractionsYakov Dinner Feast and Adventure - 15 international acts combine to bring you tale of comedy and love. Two lovers battle the odds and escape to a far away place to love eachother freely. You will be right in the middle of this heartwarming adventure, while participating in all the mesmerizing scenes that unfold. View Yakov Dinner Show information. Tickets, schedule, and dinner menu.

Showboat Branson Belle in 2012 - I try to make it out to the Showboat Branson Belle every year. I have a 16 year old daughter that has probably been on the boat a dozen times enjoying dinner and wonderful entertainment. Great for the whole family. Great food. Children's and an alternative Vegan menu is available. 2012 Showboat Branson Belle Dinner schedule and show information.

Sons of the Pioneers -  In 2012 the Sons of the Pioneers will be at the Shepherd of the Hills Pavilion Theater.  Enjoy those classic Western harmonies along with many of the Son's of the Pioneers classic hits like "Tumbling Tumbleweeds" and "Cool Water". The menu consists of a mouth watering beef brisket, smoked chicken, potatoes, corn, and barbecued beans.  All served straight off an 1800's chuck wagon! View show times, tickets info, and schedule dates for the Sons of Pioneers Dinner show


Comedy Hypnosis Dinner Show
- Do you think you could be hypnotized? Jecobie Roberts is a master hypnotist that has performed at Disney Land, Disney World, and even the 1984 Olympics!  Join the fun and be entertained in a unique way that will provide a long lasting memory for the whole family.  Not only is this a hypnotist show, but the dinner buffet menu includes items such as : Hickory smoked ribs, pork chops, catfish, brisket, chicken, shrimp, macaroni, veggies, rolls, and more!  If you love hypnotists and you love to eat, this dinner show is for you! Comedy Hypnosis Dinner Show.

Dixie Stampede - If you have seen Dixie Stampede you know what your in for.  A night of fun, laughs, and a great meal for the entire family. It doesn't matter if you have seen the show 5 times, you will be excited to see it for the 6th!  Each year the show changes and evolves into something greater and more entertaining.  I've shared a lot of great memories with my daughter at this show.  The dinner is great too. Alternative menu's for vegetarians as well.  Dixie Stampede Show Schedule, Tickets, and Menu information.

Legend of Kung Fu - This is a fabulous show that was the opening act at the Beijing Olympics. This is a story of young boy name Chun Yi who learns the ancient art of Kung Fu.  It is narrated by his wise old Kung Fu Master.  This show has been seen all around the world and has been entertaining Branson for the last several years.  Last year was my first experience and I was amazed at how the show evolved.  In the beginning a young boy plays the role of Chun Yi and as his life unfolds other amazing performers take over the role as his life progresses.  You can always tell who Chun Yi is by the red ribbon that he wears throughout the show.  The dinner was very good and this is one of the few shows in Branson that will serve beer.  I tried an Asian beer just for the experience.  It was good but I have a hard time thinking I would pick up a six pack at the store ;)  Purchase Legend of Kung Fu Dinner and Show Tickets.

Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Murder Mysteries are a blast.  If you love this kind of entertainment, it's a must see.  Depending on what time of the season you arrive to Branson will decide on which murder mystery that you will see.  There are four murder mystery plays throughout the season.  They are "Murder At The Hop", "It WAS A Wonderful Life", "Marriage Is Murder", and "Scared To Death".  View Murder Mystery Schedule and Tickets info.

Paul Harris and the Cleverly's - Do like comedy? How about music? Paul Harris is a hilarious comedian and a wonderfully talented musician.  The Cleverly's have performed at places like the Grand Ole Opry!  Read more information about the Paul Harris and Cleverly's Dinner Show in Branson.

Branson Redneck Tenors 2012 Schedule, Tickets, Review, Theater

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Branson Redneck Tenors 2012 Schedule, Tickets, Review, Theater


Redneck Tenors, Branson ShowThe Redneck Tenors have made quite the names for themselves in Branson.  When they first came to Branson I remember seeing them on the television as one of the top finalists for America's Got Talent.  At first I must admit that I was quite skeptical about them being about to stand on their own in Branson.  These are one of those cases where I'm proud to say that my skepticism had no basis! This show is funny from beginning to end and by the end of the show you are in awe by how much talent this trio truly has!

These aren't just a trio of redneck comedians that are adding a touch of music to their show.  These are classically trained artists that have a resume that anyone would be inpressed by.  They are a cast of Broadway veterans that have performed in some of the most well respected Broadway theaters.

As the show began I had no idea what to expect.  The pictures inside the theater and the show brochure features a cast of redneck boys with mullets that you would more likely see swiggin' beer, shootin' at beer bottles, and frolicking around a camp fire.  After the show begins, this is still the impression that you have........until you hear them sing!


One afternoon Billy Bob, Billy Joe, and Billy Billee were sitting outside their trailer.. Well to them it is their "mobile music studio". Along comes along a shrewd "city man" with an eye for talent stumbles upon this trio.  After hearing the boys sing, the city man sets out to find the perfect venue for the Redneck Tenors to shine and cash in on these talented boys. This is where the fun really begins.  You will follow the Redneck Tenors as they play all sorts of genres of music.  They will have you laughing out of your chair as they perform Elvis, Country, and Opera classics.  Finally, by the end of the show the Redneck boys make it big and finally reach Carnegie Hall for that perfect venue that they were searching for!


I loved this show because they somehow can coral world class talent and combine it with backwoods hilarious comedy that will have you in tears.  Bring the whole family for this one because it's one "heck-uva" rip roarin good time.

Redneck Tenors 2012 Show Schedule


Coming to Branson in 2012?  Make sure you add the Redneck Tenors to your itinerary.  I've seen almost every show in Branson, and this one is a blast to go to!  The will be performing at the Americana theater on West Highway 76.  View the schedule below to purchase tickets and see detailed pricing, directions, and showtime information.  Simply click on a show date on the schedule below to view info.
Purchase Redneck Tenors 2012 Tickets


Branson Theaters Closed Down, Tornado, Shake Rattle n Roll

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Branson Tornado, Theater Closings

Branson Theaters Closed Down Due To Tornado


The tornado that hit Branson, Mo on leap year February 29, 2012 did extensive damage to Branson and highway 76. It was quite a sight to see. Fortunately there wasn't any fatalities in the storm. The tornado zig zagged across the strip multiple times doing damage to hotels, theaters, homes, and restaurants along the way.

The tornado hit during the middle of night while the town was closed down, which probably was a very good thing. Damage can still be seen as you drive down the strip and clean up continues. If you are coming to Branson, you may be wondering which theaters took the worst damage and which theaters will be closed for business in the upcoming year.

Branson Theaters Closed In 2012?


Surprisingly, it will be business as usual in Branson. However, there will be delays at six theaters due to tornado damage.

Americana Theater :


  • The Redneck Tenors will now be opening on April 15
  • Cassandre Haygood and Friends - April 15
  • Joseph Hall's Rock and Remember Tribute - April 16
  • Todd Oliver - April 15

Branson Variety Theater :


I thought this theater took the most damage. I was just driving by yesterday (March 19) and there still looks like there is plenty of repair work to be done.  However, here are the new opening dates that have be reported :
  • Horray for Hollywood - April 16
  • Shake Rattle and Roll - April 16
  • Beach Boys and Four Seasons Tribute - April 15
  • Twelve Irish Tenors April 15

Dick Clark Theater :

  • Legends in Concert - April 1
  • The Brett Family - April 15

2012 Baldknobbers Country Music Show, Tickets, Schedule Info, Jamboree

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Branson, Baldknobbers Show, Tickets, Schedule

2012 Baldknobbers Country Music Show, Schedule, and Tickets Information


If you have ever been to Branson you are probably well aware of the Baldknobbers music show.  They are family of performers that have been entertaining Branson crowds dating back all the way to 1959.  It started it with the four Mabe brothers and has since grown into one huge musical extravaganza with generations of family members.

Baldknobbers Review


You get it all when you go see a Baldknobbers how.  I've seen this show several times since I've been living in Branson (since 1991).  It's always interesting to see how the young performers have grown up, and what new kids will be performing.  Talent just runs all throughout this amazing family of entertainers.

The Baldknobbers is a high energy show that combines hilarious side splitting comedy with upbeat country hits, and beautiful country ballads.  I've seen this show quite a few times and each time it is different.  So, if you have seen the show once before, don't be afraid to see it again.

With over 50 years of entertaining in Branson on their resume, this multi-talented cast of 17 singers, musicians, and comedians are masters at engaging the audience. Fans are laughing, singing, and dancing in their seats all throughout their show.

The Baldknobbers show is located on the highway 76 strip.  The tornado that went through town didn't damage the theater so you don't have to worry about that (see what Theaters Were Damaged In Branson Due To Tornado.  Come on out to the Baldknobbers Jamboree if you want to have a great time with entertainment suitable for the entire family.

Baldknobbers Jamboree Show Tickets, Times, and Schedule Information


Purchase Baldknobbers Jamboree Show Tickets


The Baldknobbers Jamboree have a performance Monday through Friday at 8:00 PM from March through December.  For detailed pricing, tickets, and schedule information view the show calendar below.  Simply click on a date on the schedule to view detailed tickets pricing and schedule information.  You can also order tickets to any other show in Branson from Branson's leading ticket agency.  This is not one of those "ticket brokerage" companies like ticketmaster that charges you extra fees.  This company is actually located in town and you can pick up your tickets in person if you so chose to!  They also have access to the best seats and offer the best prices than out of town ticket companies do.

2012 Baldknobbers Schedule In Branson

March - April - May - June - July - August - September - October - November - December

New Festival Attractions at Silver Dollar City in 2012, World, Kids, Harvest

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What's New At Silver Dollar City in 2012? New Food, Rides, and Entertainment


So, your coming back to Silver Dollar City and wondering what's new at one of the countries favorite amusement parks?  Here is a rundown of some new attractions and activities that you may haven't seen before.  I haven't yet seen them myself.  I'm taking my daughter this weekend so I'll be coming back for a full detailed review ;)

2012 Branson World Fest Attractions

New World Fest Attractions


World Fest will be back like usual, but they will be showcasing six new acts. (it's such a wonderful festival.  Be sure to check it out if your in Branson during World Fest).  New acts will be :
  • "La Bella Musica" - Flag throwing, acrobats, costume parades, stilt walkers and more will be entertaining you along the streets.  This should be fun :)
  • Mariachi Divas - The Mariachia Divas are an all female musical ensemble that has won Grammy Awards in the past!  I've never seen them, but they must be pretty talented if they have won Grammies!  They are from Latin America.
  • Hawaiin Country Music - Folk, dance music.  Stars Grammy winning George Kahumoku.
  • Kenyan Sarakasi Acrobats from Nairobi

New Kids Festival Attractions


The National Kidfest will have two new shows performing this year.  They are :
  • Luma -  3D light show that will tell the story of Silver Dollar City's Marvel Cave and Gazilliaon Bubbles.  That reminds me, I haven't been down in the Cave in a good five years.  It's about time to have another tour.  The light show must be amazing. Even though my daughter isn't quite a "kid" anymore we still may check this out.

The National Harvest Festival Will Feature :

  • New western stunt show (I will enjoy this I am quite positive!) - Features professional stuntmen and women.
  • An Old Time Christmas will have a new play. "It's A Wonderful Life". Probably one of my favorite television/stories ever.  Will be sure to check this out as well.

View Silver Dollar City's Entire 2012 Festival Schedule and Attractions


Purchase Silver Dollar City Tickets - Special Packages


Silver Dollar City is already open! (Opened March 15, 2012).  Make sure that you grab your tickets.  The schedule below often features specials and travel packages.  Simply click on a date that your interested in visiting Branson to view what special deals they have going.  They are a local ticket service company (you know the kind that you see when you arrive in town?) and not a national brokerage like Ticketmaster who charges you extra fees.  Use the service below and the price you see is the price you will be charged.  Not a single penny more! I've been in Branson since 1993 and this is a reputable company that you can trust!


5 Temmuz 2012 Perşembe

Simon Property Group Schedules Second Quarter Earnings Release And Conference Call

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INDIANAPOLIS, June 27, 2012 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Simon Property Group, Inc. (NYSE:SPG) announced today that financial and operational results for the quarter ended June 30, 2012, will be released before the market opens on July 24, 2012.  The Company will host its quarterly earnings conference call and an audio webcast on July 24th at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time.

The live webcast will be available in listen-only mode at www.simon.com (Investors tab), www.earnings.com and www.streetevents.com.  If you are unable to participate during the live webcast, an audio replay will be available beginning at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time on July 24, 2012, and will be available until 11:00 p.m., August 7, 2012, by dialing 1-888-286-8010 and entering the passcode "25965580."  The call will also be archived on www.simon.com, www.earnings.com and www.streetevents.com for approximately 90 days.

Simon Property Group, Inc. (NYSE:SPG) is an S&P 100 company and the largest real estate company in the world.  The Company currently owns or has an interest in 339 retail real estate properties in North America and Asia comprising 245 million square feet. We are headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana and employ approximately 5,500 people in the U.S.  For more information, visit the Simon Property Group website at www.simon.com.

SOURCE Simon Property Group, Inc.

Update On Competing Chesterfield Outlet Malls

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CHESTERFIELD, MO. (KTVI) – We now know the stores the Simon Property Group plans to bring to the new St. Louis Premium Outlet Mall in the valley. This is the mall to be located on the south side of Highway 40 east of the Daniel Boone Bridge.They plan to have 85 stores open by the fall of 2013 that will include: Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Ann Taylor, Brooks Brothers, Jones New York, Hartstrings, Lane Bryant and Yankee Candle among others.Groundbreaking is set for July 11th.At the Taubman Company competing outlet mall, the company says it is planning a ceremonial ground breaking on July 25th, with construction to get underway after that.That’s when the planned prestige outlet mall will unveil the stores committed to its shopping complex. Prestige outlets plan to open in October of 2013 across from the chesterfield commons in the valley.Most doubt that both malls will be built, but no one has dropped out of the competition.by by Staff Writer,Fox2 Now St. Louis

Swindon Designer Outlet expansion

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By Owen Fishwick  - Swindon Business News A planning application has been put in for the development ofover 50,000 sq ft of new retail at the centre.  Swindon Designer Outlet is managed by McArthurGlen, Europe’sleading designer outlet group. It is owned by Henderson Global Investors, aspart of its UK Outlet Mall Fund, in which McArthurGlen is also an investor.

This new £35 million development at Swindon Designer Outlet involves theregeneration of the historic Long Shop, built in 1874 as part of the GradeII-listed Great Western Railway Works, one of the world’s most significantearly railway works, and now home to Swindon Designer Outlet.  

The investment will not only enhance the existing centre, providing anew hub of desirable retail stores, but will also bring the total number ofpeople employed at the centre from 750 to 1,100, adding an estimated further350 jobs.

Once converted, theLong Shop, located opposite STEAM – the Museum of the Great Western Railways,will house up to 30 new retail units. This will enable Swindon Designer Outletto increase its offer and at the same time to ensure the conservation of thebuildings of the Great Western Railway Works’ Railway Heritage Area.

The new developmentis part of a much larger master plan including a strategy to make shopping eveneasier for consumers by grouping like brands together in special zones, namelypremium/designer, high-street and lifestyle, as well as a food quarter andrestaurant units.. The new Long Shop area will include existing brandsrelocated from within the centre.

Tina Cumpstey,McArthur Glen centre manager, at Swindon Designer Outlet, said: “Theregeneration represents a significant investment to the centre and will breathenew life into the Long Shop as well as welcoming up to 30 new retail stores toour existing offering of leading premium, designer and high-street brands. Bybringing the centre into a new league of retail destination, this will attractmore shoppers not only to Swindon Designer Outlet but also to Swindon.”

Andrew Rich, fundmanager for the Henderson UK Outlet Mall Fund, added: “Investment in retailproperties is a major part of Henderson’stotal £12.5 billion of property assets under management. Swindonis a very successful centre within our outlet mall portfolio, and the expansionis part of our investment strategy to continue to deliver strong performancefor our investors.”

Stephen Harty,Director, Pod Architects said: “An important part of this development schemehas been to ensure the conservation of the Long Shop’s original structure,keeping intervention to a minimum.. With this in mind the new build will workwith the architectural heritage of the building, incorporating it within thedesign of the build while enhancing and maintaining the historic fabric of thecentre and the Long Shop.”

Outlets at Traverse Mountain set for November Opening

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(Scott Sommerdorf | The Salt Lake Tribune) The red carpet was rolled out amidst the construction site as The Outlets at Traverse Mountain announced an expansion and new retailers, Thursday, June 28, 2012.
By LESLEY MITCHELL - The Salt Lake TribuneCalvin Klein, Izod, Coach, Polo Ralph Lauren and dozens of other retailers and restaurants are set to open in November in a new 225,000-square-foot outlet shopping center under construction in Lehi.
Outlets at Traverse Mountain is being built on 50 acres off Interstate 15 at the Alpine/Highland exit. 
The expected 52-store project is a joint venture between Newport Beach, Calif.-based Craig Realty Group and Lehi-based Legacy Retail LLC. The general contractor is Layton Construction of Salt Lake City. 
A number of tenants at Traverse Mountain will be new to Utah, including higher-end purveyors GoLite, a provider of outdoor equipment and apparel; Le Creuset, which provides cookware; and Under Armour, which sells apparel, said Teri Sunderland, Traverse Mountain general manager.
The Lehi outlet mall initially will be about two-thirds the size of Park City’s Tanger Outlets, a shopping center in Summit County that has 320,000 square feet of space.
Like the Park City mall, the new center will have a mix of upscale and mid-range retail tenants. It’s typical of other outlet malls in that its retailers are opening stores focused on value.
"We have a really good, solid lineup of national brand companies," said Steven L. Craig, president and CEO of Craig Realty Group, a firm specializing in upscale outlet centers throughout the U.S., including three in Colorado.
A second phase of construction could add another 150,000 square feet and 35 tenants, for a total of 375,000 square feet at some point, he said.
Craig said that although his property is an outlet center, he thinks it will have more in common with City Creek Center than the Tanger Outlets.
"It’s very City Creek-esque," he said.
The mall will have a glass atrium canopy over walking areas that will provide shelter from weather extremes. The center also has radiant heated outdoor walkways with a snow melt system for the winter months.
Construction began in October on the new center that’s being built with an upscale flair, including a 12,000-square-foot central entrance featuring a 50-foot fireplace as the focal point.
"The location is going to make this project successful," said JR Moore, a retail specialist with commercial brokerage CBRE in Salt Lake City. "It’s a great location. The mall is perfectly positioned to capture both Salt Lake County and Utah County shoppers."
The new outlet mall will be adjacent to the 150,000-square-foot Cabela’s store. A large amount of retail development had been planned for the area pre-recession, but only the Cabela’s was built before the economy soured. Craig Realty has owned the property since 2007, just before the downturn took hold. The conditions weren’t right until the summer of 2011 to move ahead with the project.Craig Realty began construction when the outlet mall had signed leases from about half of its expected 52 tenants.
Although the Wasatch Front has numerous regional malls, including the newly opened City Creek Center in downtown Salt Lake City, the nearest outlet malls are in Park City and St. George, Moore said, which makes a project of this type overdue.
"Two of the most populated counties in the state of Utah are not serviced by an outlet mall," he said. 
"This will be the closest outlet mall serving both Utah County and Salt Lake County."
The addition of the new center probably will have some impact on the Tanger Outlets, but given the distance between the two and the fact that Park City also is a tourist destination, it won’t be crippling, said Stuart Thain, a retail specialist with Coldwell Banker Commercial brokerage.
Post-recession, shoppers have been drawn to outlet stores because of the perception that they are getting a deal, Thain said.
"Outlet malls are doing well around the country," he said. "And I have no doubt this new mall will do well here. Value —that’s what Utah is all about."

Jingjin Designer Outlets replicates an Italian village

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Replica: A bridge over a canal that flows through the centre of Florentia Village in Wuqing, on the outskirts of the city of Tianjin.
by Jane F. Ragavan - the star online


IT’S BEEN said that you can get everything made in China. Smartphones, handbags and even cars have been copied and manufactured in bulk for sale around the world.

But at the Jingjin Designer Outlets near Beijing, the luxury goods sold are authentic. The village which houses the houses, however, is a facsimile.

China has constructed a 5.7ha copy of an Italian city that boasts colonnades and piazzas. It even has its own faux Colosseum and Grand Canal with gondolas that glide under an arched bridge.
The Florentia Village, which houses the Jingjin Designer Outlets, is modelled after the Chic Outlet Shopping Villages in Europe. It was constructed at an estimated cost of US$220mil (RM702mil) on a former corn field in Wuqing, a fast-growing town between Beijing and Tianjin.

There are nearly 200 of the most famous Italian luxury brands and international and Chinese fashion premium brands at Jingjin, which opened in June last year.

But unlike those luxury shopping villages in Europe which mostly employ architecture unique to the region’s cultural and artistic heritage, and are located in scenic and culturally interesting areas that provide a natural itinerary for tourists, the designers of Florentia decided to forgo features such as curved roofs and stone dragons for porticoes and lancet arches.

Florentia Village, designed by Italian engineering, architectural and environmental firm Hydea, is also popular as the backdrop for wedding photos.

This is not the first time China has replicated a European town.

Besides Little Italy in Wuqing, there’s German Town Anting with its Bauhaus architecture and statues of Goethe and Schiller, Chengdu British Town modelled after Dorchester in England, Thames Town with a 66m-tall church that bears a striking resemblance to a cathedral in Bristol, as well as mini versions of Barcelona and Nordic Town. Venetian-style canals also feature in Pujiang, a suburb of Shanghai.

The Austrian mountain town of Hallstatt, a Unesco World Heritage Site, has been recreated – including its famous lake – in the southern province of Guangdong.