Branson, Missouri Takes Sting Out of Gas Prices

BRANSON, Mo., Aug. 23, 2005 -- Branson, Missouri is taking the sting out of rising gas prices by offering visitors Gas Buster Discount Cards worth up to $50 off show and attraction tickets, lodging, meals and retail purchases when they spend just $20 on gas during their trips to town through October 31, 2005.

Log on to http://www.explorebranson.com/ for details about Branson's Gas Buster Discount program or call 800-214-3661.

Ross Summers, president and CEO of the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau, said, "Branson businesses are working together to help offset the costs of gas so visitors can afford to see and do all the things they would like to do while on vacation."

Summers said that when the Gas Buster Discount Card program started in April, the Branson Chamber set September 30, 2005 as the cut-off date and $40 as the minimum requirement in gas receipts to receive the discount card at Chamber Welcome Centers.

"More than 85% of Branson's visitors drive to town and over one-third come from 300 miles or less, so these changes to the Gas Buster program will help more people, especially our regional neighbors coming for weekend trips," Summers said.

On August 23, 2005 the American Automobile Association reported the average price of a regular gallon of gas in the Midwest was $2.57. At that price, the average 15-gallon tank would cost $38.55 to fill.

In order to receive a Gas Buster Discount Card, visitors should present a valid driver's license and proof of gas purchases totaling a minimum of $20, incurred within 2 days of arrival, at one of the Chamber's two Welcome Centers (intersection of Hwy. 65 and Mo. 248, and intersection of Hwy. 65 and Mo. 160). Gas Buster Discount Cards and the list of participating Branson area business sponsors will be available to visitors from 8am to 5pm Mondays through Saturdays, and 10am to 4pm on Sundays through October 31, 2005.

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