Branson Announces Initiative to Stretch Family Vacation Dollars via Economic Stimulus Program

Doubles Ways to Cash In with Free Show Tickets

Branson, Missouri, wants people to have fun with their economic stimulus check by vacationing in "The Live Music Show Capital of the World." A new, innovative Branson promotion offers visitors two free show tickets just for bringing a copy of their stimulus check, or proof of direct deposit, to Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. Since only a copy is required, the checks can still be cashed by some national stores to take advantage of their stimulus plan promotions; thus check recipients have two ways to "cash in" for each tax rebate check.

Shows participating in this promotion include 50's at the Hop, Yakov Smirnoff, Dick Clark's American Bandstand Theatre, The Happy Trails Theater featuring Roy Rogers, Jr., The Baldknobbers, Buck Trent, Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede, Kirby VanBurch, Grand Country, Jim Stafford, New Shanghai Circus, The Shepherd of the Hills, Magnificent Seven, The Duttons, Island Fire, Hamner Barber Variety Show and many more. For a complete list of shows offering two free tickets and the complete promotion guidelines, you may check out the website at www.explorebranson.com/stimuluscheck.

"Branson is furthering national retail value-added programs, such as those announced by Sears, Lowes and K-Mart, by adding activity and entertainment to a family vacation at no additional cost," said Ross Summers, President/CEO, Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau.

While in Branson, you can enjoy more than 100 live shows offering a variety of Pop, Patriotic, Rock 'n' Roll, Gospel, Motown, Big Band, Irish and Country music, as well as Broadway-style productions, magic, comedy, and acrobatics. There are shows that feature the songs and dances of the '50s, '60s and '70s, and shows that pay tribute to legendary performers such as Red Skelton, Elvis, the Eagles and even The Beatles. Your family will also enjoy the many wonderful attractions in Branson and its close proximity to three pristine lakes with lush, scenic mountain vistas all around. Add to that the newest shoppers' paradise at Branson Landing, Celebration City's brand-new $2 million "Roaring Falls" ride, and the elegant European-style Spa Chateau and you'll find something fun for everyone.

Branson Brings Back 'Gas Buster' Cards

Branson Brings Back "Gas Buster" Cards

Responding to the ever-increasing price of a gallon of gas, the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce/CVB is once again offering visitors a Gas Buster discount card. Good at dozens of live shows, area attractions, lodging properties, retail shops and restaurants, the card is worth a total of $50 off purchases. Folks signing up for the 2008 Gas Buster discount card will also have a chance to win a Grand Prize Getaway to Branson!

"By offering the Gas Buster discount card, we are letting families know that we value their business. And Branson's entertainment families are willing to work together to defray the cost of a vacation, so that folks can afford to do all the things they would like to do here," according to Righteous Brother's Bill Medley, appearing at Dick Clark's American Bandstand Theatre. "I hope this will help bring more people here. Families looking for shows, theme parks, golf, lakes recreation, along with shopping, dining and world-class entertainment will find it all in Branson."

Between May 1 and Oct. 31, 2008, the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce/CVB will give a Gas Buster discount card to anyone who presents a valid drivers' license and a minimum of $40 in gas receipts incurred within 48 hours of their arrival at one of the Chamber's two Welcome Centers, located at the intersections of U.S. Highway 65 and Missouri Highway 248, and at Hwy. 65 and Missouri Highway 160 in Branson. Gas Buster card holders are automatically entered to win the grand prize 4-day/3-night vacation for four to Branson, which will be awarded on October 31, 2008.

Branson star and famous Russian comedian Yakov Smirnoff notes, "Most visitors to Branson drive their personal vehicle. With gas prices rising, who ya gonna call? Gas Busters! Branson's "Gas Buster" card allows families to get more for their fuel dollar than just the gas needed to get to and from Branson."

Gas Buster discount cards and the list of participating sponsors will only be issued from the two Chamber/CVB Welcome Centers. Business hours are 8am to 5pm, Mondays through Saturdays, and 10am to 4pm on Sundays. The Gas Buster promotion runs from May 1 through Oct. 31, 2008. For more information, log on to www.explorebranson.com or call 800-214-3661.