Probably the most prestigious award handed out each year by the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce is the Mary Award.

The award is named for Mary Herschend and Mary Trimble, who were key players in the early days of the Branson entertainment community.

This year’s Mary Award winner is philanthropist Leon Combs, who is grateful for the honor…

            Leon Combs               

Combs and his wife, Dot are in Florida, so he accepted the award at the chamber black tie event via Skype.

Combs’ contributions to the community include support of the former Skaggs Regional Medical Center and last year’s Branson Centennial celebration.