Cooper honored at Branson City Council Meeting

Clay Cooper is the latest recipient of the Song of Hope Award.

Cooper, a headline entertainer at his own popular Branson theater and a member of the Branson Board of Aldermen, was presented the award at the most recent city council meeting by fellow alderman Marshall Howden, founder of the Song of Hope movement.

"About 10 years ago when I became involved in local politics, I created an organization called Branson's Song of Hope," said Howden. "In that time, we've embarked on many initiatives to preserve the history of the live music shows in our community including the creation of a museum and neon sign graveyard.  But one of the most lasting and important initiatives has been the annual presentation of our Song of Hope Award, given every year to an individual or family who has spent a career advocating for Branson's entertainment industry."

Previous recipients of the Song of Hope Award have been the Hughes Family and Jim Barber, among others.

"Sometimes the inspiration for that year's winner comes at unexpected times," Howden continued. "Last month, one of our aldermen gave a report about all he's doing to bring some incredible names back to the Branson stage. And, sometimes the person you should honor with a recognition such as this is just pretty darn obvious."

Clay Cooper headlines the Clay Cooper Country Express Show at his own Branson theatre.  

Congratulations, Clay Cooper!