Visit to Branson

Ray and Birgitta graciously hosted us for a week's vacation in Branson, Missouri. There we saw five terrific musical shows, visited the beautiful campus of College of the Ozarks, toured the Titanic museum, and visited the famous Thorncrown Chapel in nearby Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Each performance offered a unique blend of music, comedy and a patriotic salute to veterans. Many of the acts consist of generations of family members who make musical theater a true family business. More than 8 million people annually visit Branson's many musical theaters and other attractions. The Marriott resort where we stayed hosted a dinner for guests featuring a review of 14 Branson acts.

One of Branson's top attractions, the highly talented Dutton family performs in their own theater. They also own a hotel and gift store.

The Titanic museum exceeded our expectations. It features many interesting artifacts and a reproduction of the famous ship's grand staircase. We were told that the flooring of the staircase was the most expensive component. New at the time, it was called linoleum.(Yes, that is an "iceberg" in the foreground.)

Keeter Center at the Presbyterian College of the Ozarks. This building houses the College's student-run restaurant. We ate there twice because the cuisine was so divine!

Thorncrown Chapel in Eureka Springs, AK opened in 1980. It is the 4th greatest building constructed in the 20th century according to the American Institute of Architects. Its 425 windows and forest setting gives the Chapel a unique spiritual quality.

Appetizers and dinner on our balcony added immensely to our enjoyment of the Branson experience.

Ray greets a cow after dinner at College of the Ozarks. The entire herd later stopped by to return his greeting.