This edition of Branson Chamber Connection is packed with exciting community highlights. We congratulate the 2025 Black Tie Award Winners, celebrate Branson’s national spotlight with Fox & Friends and The Today Show showcasing our Christmas magic, and share important Member Center updates to keep you connected.

Thank you to our sponsors, partners, and community leaders who helped make this year’s Black Tie Gala such a memorable evening. With more than 750 guests in attendance, the event marked the largest Black Tie Gala in the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and CVB’s 79 year history.  Congratulations to all the award winners this year.

President's Award

John Baltes

Mary Award

Scottie Earls

Pioneer Award

Tony Orlando

Ambassador Award

Craig Wescott

Community Spirit Award

Chief Ted Martin

Beautification Award

City of Branson

Care For Kids Award

Camp Barnabas

Pictured Left to Right:  Pamela Yancey, Tony Orlando, Ann McDowell, and Mike Patrick

Bright and early this morning, Branson took center stage on national television as Steve from Fox & Friends went live from Silver Dollar City, sharing the magic of Christmas. With twinkling lights, festive décor, and plenty of holiday cheer as the backdrop, the segment showcased why Silver Dollar City shines as a must-visit Christmas destination. 

Branson was in the national spotlight once again last Friday as the Today Show rolled into town to film a festive segment in historic Downtown Branson, celebrating our community as one of the “Merriest Mainstreet's in America.” With charming storefronts, glowing lights, and the unmistakable spirit of the season, the segment highlighted the joyful atmosphere that fills Branson during the holidays. 

Ollis/Akers/Arney ranks as one of America’s Best Workplaces Top Ten employers, securing the 5th place ranking among medium companies nationwide. After three years as the #1 Best Place to Work in southwest Missouri administered by Best Companies Group and hosted by Biz417, the company’s score qualified the insurance brokerage to compete on the national level.

Big D's BBQ
Branson Ticket Deals
Kansas Crossing Casino
Options Pregnancy Clinic
PASS Fire and Security
Table Rock Career Center