Branson chamber honors businesses, individuals

The Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau presented a bevy of awards Saturday night at its 66th annual Black Tie Celebration.

Retired businessman and philanthropist Leon Combs, owner of Beaver Creek Elk and Cattle Ranch, was presented with the top award of the night, the Mary Award, named in honor of Branson entertainment benefactors Mary Herschend and Mary Trimble. Combs also is a past chairman for the board of directors of Cox Medical Center Branson when it operated as Skaggs Regional Medical Center, according to a news release.

Other awards:

• The Pioneer Award, which is given to recognize an individual for service to the community at least 15 years ago, was presented to Glenn Robinson, who started in business by selling pottery in a Wal-Mart parking lot. He now operates Grand County, which includes a hotel, an indoor mini-golf course, a theater and an indoor water park.
• The Grand Village took home the Beautification Award, recognizing the shopping destination for work done to improve its appearance.
• David Smith, an attorney with Cantwell, Smith & Trokey LLP, received the Ambassador Award for his work as chairman of the Skaggs board of directors in leading the hospital's buyout by CoxHealth.
• Karen Hall of Ozark Mountain Bank was presented the Care For Kids Award for her work with students at Branson schools and charities.
• The Community Spirit Award was given to Hollister City Administrator Rick Ziegenfuss for his work in aiding projects such as the Taney County Business Development Partnership.