Photo of sky taken at the time of the Duck boat accident.

The photo was taken at my residence balcony located at Lat 36.69045541922207, Long -93.12413837409667. Elevation 241 meters. Time of photo ~7:05 PM, July 19, 2018. Below is the direction line of the location of the Ride the Ducks accident some 12 miles straight line distance.

Google map showing this line.

It's my thought that what the photo maybe showed indications of what  was a micro-burst in progress which struck the boat that saw 17 individuals lose their lives.

Bull Shoals Bridge video cam ...gone!

Forsyth MO. I get it. Things sometimes break. But, then they can get repaired, right? That, apparently, has not been the case with the Ox Blue video cam that was recording time lapse photography at the Bull Shoals Bridge Project just east of town. It broke on July the 12th and was still non functional on July the 23rd. And while I was uncertain as to how many citizens really paid any attention to the site - see https://app.oxblue.com/open/modot/cams, I thought it would be neat to have a visual record of the new bridge construction available for future generations.

Update: July 23, 2018 - Apparently MODOT removed the camera as they felt that the project was 'completed'. This in the face of the asphalt not yet being laid, nor the roundabout being completed.... 

Following is a statement from a MODOT spokesperson: 
 

'The camera at the Bull Shoals bridge project has been removed. The camera was in the way of the new roundabout being built at Route 160/76 at the north end of the new bridge. It will not be reinstalled on the project.' 

So, it would have been nice to have had a 'video eye' on that intersection during a phase of construction when traffic was to be the most impacted....

On Country Mart and slippage!

Forsyth MO. - On a promised to be hot July day in 2018, I wandered into a local grocery store known as Country Mart and as I stepped into the Produce Department, a line from Stephan King's book. 'Dark House' came to mind. It concerned the term 'slippage'; 'It’s a feeling of a kind of inevitable, sometimes hard to detect degradation into darkness. Everything is in a state of entropy. So, you’re either working to improve or letting things degrade and break up.' Half empty bins, containing limp produce greeted my eye in a department that heretofore had always been a shining example of veggies done right! I was going to purchase some Romaine, but after looking at the ragged offerings, I passed.

As I quickly exited the area, the damage had been done and now my mind was queued in to spot other areas and shelves with products that had gaps in between one item and the next. An image that was not at all like the one pictured above... Like I said, slippage was apparent most everywhere on this date and in this store....

Update: The very next day, the Produce area looked a lot better (see picture at right)! Just perhaps, I did show up on an off sort of day.... I was also informed that the long term employee, Randy, who did such an outstanding job maintaining that area had moved on...

Shanna Tilley needs your vote!

Shanna Tilley is currently running for the position of County Clerk for Taney County Missouri in 2018. Now according to one internet source, (for anyone who is not sure of the duties involved); The county clerk is responsible for filing vital records, or important documents related to a specific county's population, including birth, death and marriage certificates. And, depending on the size of the county's population, the duties of the job can go a lot further than that!

I knew Shanna some years ago when we both worked for the same company. Back then, she was a real go-getter whose energy and focus was apparent in everything she did. And today, she's looks to be even more energetic and focused than ever before!

I feel that citizens like Shanna Tilley are exactly the type of people we need to fill critical positions in local government, during otherwise trying and difficult political times. I would hope that all my friends, who reside in the Country, see fit to get out and vote their choices on August 7, 2018!

Bull Shoals bridge roaundabout set to start!

Forsyth MO. - I had a conversation on July 10 concerning the Bull Shoals bridge project and learned from MODOT officials that work on the bridge itself was mostly complete and that there were getting ready to begin work on the roundabout sometime around August first. They also informed me that work on laying asphalting the roadway connecting the new bridge would also begin in short order.

Left unanswered was what traffic problems were anticipated and I was told that these would be addressed in an upcoming press release from MODOT in a few days.

Following was the most recent press release from MODOT:

Southwest District Office 417.895.7600

July 03, 2018 02:45 PM

Construction Starts on New Roundabout

At Route 160/76 Intersection near Forsyth

Forsyth area, Taney County – Work to build a roundabout at the intersection of Route 160 and Route 76 east of Forsyth is underway, as the same contractor continues work on the new Route 76 bridge over Bull Shoals Lake, which is adjacent to the roundabout project, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

During the roundabout project, drivers can expect one-lane traffic, traffic shifts and increased construction at the intersection. Contractor crews will avoid disruptions during morning and afternoon rush hour as much as possible.

The construction on the roundabout will take place within the same work zone as the new Route 76 bridge over Bull Shoals Lake. Contractor crews are making good progress on the bridge and are now focusing on building the road approaching the new structure.

Drivers are urged to use caution in the area and expect delays at times.

The prime contractor on the roundabout project is Lehman Construction of California, Mo.

The total project cost for the roundabout project is $1.4 million.

The project is a partnership between MoDOT and Taney County.

The project is scheduled for completion by November 1, 2018.

Creek Devils to appear at local bar!

Forsyth MO. - The Creek Devils will be appearing at the Frosted Mug on Hwy 160 in Forsyth MO on Friday the 13th starting at 8PM. I've heard that this band is worth a listen and plan to attend the event! You can check their sound out on YouTube!

Around and about Forsyth MO in July 2018!

Forsyth MO. – It was July 2 and we'd just survived a mini-heat wave that had lasted almost week. And this day was proving to be no slouch either as it was 85°F even before 10AM in the morning!

Pat and Leo B. with an unnamed person!

I had gone to the Long Horn Family Dining restaurant on Hwy 160 for breakfast where I enjoyed Eggs and hash browns with toast and sausages. While I was there, I ran into Pat and Leo Bennett who had just arrived from Arizona. Both maintain homes here in Kissee Mills and Parker AZ. They told me they were planning to be here until about October before heading back to their winter quarters. And, no that isn't Trump in the pic, just weird uncle Ernie.

After taking my leave of the restaurant, I headed over to a local grocery store for some more grub. As I walked in from the parking lot, I couldn't help but to notice that many of the cars had out of state plates. That was good news for local businesses as vacationers do like to spend money!

Tomatoes from last year's Market!

On a sadder note, when I stopped to visit the Farmer's Market that was most always around this time of year, I discovered that they had been moved out of town over t the Fair Grounds. What? That location is a fer piece of distance from town and I elected not to travel that far for home grown veggies. Seriously, I really liked it when the market was located in the parking lot next to the Historical Society. I'd even go as far as Shadowrock Park, but the powers that be must have decided that the Fair Grounds would be a better location. Good luck with that!

Well, the Fourth of July is upon us and I'd heard that Rockaway Beach was going to put on a number of events starting on Tuesday, July 3rd. I hoped to stop down that way and get a few pictures. I thought I might even grab a hamburger and chips if they had a vendor that offered such. Do stop by, if you can as it is generally a fun time.

Lastly, a friendly reminder  that the Fourth is one of those holidays that seem to get more than their fair share of impaired drivers. Twenty six people died last year with 16 seeing someone in the vehicle that was impaired. Because of stats like that, the police will be out in force starting June 20 thru July 4th watching for anyone who is driving in an erratic manner. Those who are caught will be arrested and charged, so don't you be one of them! www.taneyweather.com

Shadowrock Lodge sold??

Forsyth MO. – Yes, just recently, in June 2018 the Shadowrock Lodge was sold by an agent of Keller Williams to an undisclosed party or parties. I had a chance to stop there on June 28 and spoke briefly with some individuals who were charge with renovation of the Restaurant/Bar area. And, while they were not forthcoming with information as to the identity of the owners, they did indicate that the establishment might re-open by September or October. They also promised to email me with any forthcoming announcements. I await with much anticipation, to see what transpires....

Branson Bank VP to Present Internet Banking Safety

Branson Bank VP and Chief Information Officer, Scott Ford, will be presenting an “Internet Banking Safety and Scam Avoidance” session at the Taneyhills Community Library as part of the INFO to KNOW Program on Tuesday, July 10th at 6:00 pm in the Stanley and Elaine Ball Tech Room. The session will provide information about online banking security and how to avoid bank scams.

“There is a drastic need for channels to distribute this type of education and few have the basic knowledge needed to remain safe from online banking criminals, “ Ford stated.

“We’re excited to have Scott and Branson Bank share this vital information with the community and especially utilize the library, as this information is exactly what INFO to KNOW was developed to provide,” said Adele Groote, Coordinator of INFO to KNOW at the Taneyhills Library.

The session is limited to 32 participants and reservations to attend are highly encouraged. Contact Taneyhills Community Library to reserve your place, 417-334-1418. 

When/ Where: Taneyhills Community Library, Tuesday, July 10 @ 6:00 pm in the Stanley & Elaine Ball Tech Room.

Three way woes to come to an end in November!

Forsyth MO. - After what might seem a very long time for citizens who routinely cross the Bull Shoals bridge just to the south of Forsyth Missouri, it looks as though the bridge construction will be wrapping up fairly soon. According to a communique from MODOT Project Manager, Johnny Teegardin, 'The completion date for both the roundabout and the bridge projects are November 1, 2018.

So, by late this coming Fall, things should be back to 'normal' for commuter traffic. That will be good news for Peggy's Park Place Market that has seen a small drop off in business due to all the construction. On a promising note, I also understand from Jay Kirschenmann, a representative of the Real Estate company that represented the Shadowrock Hotel, that they had 'Finally sold the Shadow Rock Lodge in Forsyth Missouri after many showings during the past year.' He went on to state that they were, 'Talking to the new owners about starting a Facebook page so that people can follow the progress of bringing it back to life. Restaurant, lounge, and 21 rooms upstairs!' That would be great news for anyone who works or does business in or around the Park area!

Now, if the spring of 2019 will just behave herself and we don't get excessive rainfall, perhaps we will see a full Park with lots of happy tourists and locals!

New welding comapny in Kissee Mills!

Kissee Mills - I recently met the owner of a welding service that's located off 160 in Kissee Mills. His name is Gary and he does just about anything to do with welding! Gary can be reached by calling 816-853-4903 during regular business hours.

Basic Computer Workshops offered!

Basic Microsoft computer skill workshops will be offered through the INFO to KNOW Program at the Taneyhills Community Library on Mondays in June at 5:00 pm. There will be 4 different workshops, each covering basic knowledge of every subject. Please arrive prior to 5:00 pm as the library locks its doors at 5:00. Registration is required as space is extremely limited.

The workshops will be as follows:

Monday, June 4 @ 5:00 pm: Basic Computer Components & Creating a WORD Document - A basic tour of the computer. Learning to use keyboard, mouse, etc. Creating a very basic WORD document.

Monday, June 11 @ 5:00 pm: Using E-Mail – Setting up a Gmail account. Sending an email. Participants will need to bring their cell phone to this workshop.

Monday, June 18 @ 5:00 pm: Basic Internet Skills – Touring web browsers. Performing a search. Learning basic Internet terms.

Monday, June 25 @ 5:00pm: Facebook – What is Facebook? How to create a Facebook account, understanding basic privacy settings, and requesting friends. Participants must have a personal email account already set up to take this workshop.

“Coordinating the INFO to KNOW program over the past 9 months has made us aware of the many requests for basic computer skills training from program attendees and the public at large,” said Adele Groote, the Taneyhills INFO to KNOW Program Director. “We have learned through previous workshops that trying to teach on multiple devices such a Microsoft vs. Macintosh vs. iPads or Androids, creates chaos in the classroom. In these workshops we will be concentrating only on the Microsoft operating system by using our public computers. That way, every participant will be seeing and interacting in the same computer environment. Because we have limited computers for public use, the workshops will be very small and it will be absolutely imperative to register for the workshop in advance.”

Groote added, “The library takes pride in the fact we are a vital link in our community by providing computer access and free Wifi for residents and our visitors. We try and accommodate these needs while receiving no public funding. We rely on donations to sustain us so that we can serve the community. Our hope is to obtain a grant or monetary gift to acquire 15 laptop computers so we can to provide more access and more available times to teach free computer courses. Because we must use the public computers for general usage during operating hours, we can only hold the classes after closing time and must make the classes very small.”

To register for any of the computer workshops in June, call the front desk to reserve your seat. 417-334-1418 .

 The INFO to KNOW program provides the community with helpful information to improve their daily lives while receiving no tax-related funding from the cities of Branson or Hollister, or Taney County, or the State of Missouri, or other government agency. Donations are always welcomed in supporting this vibrant service to our Tri-Lakes Community.

Fat Daddy's Breakfast!

Forsyth Mo. - Of the many and sundry restaurants, fast food joints and other assorted eateries located in and around Forsyth Missouri, Fat Daddy's is most definitely a must visit establishment!

As it had been some time since I last had breakfast at Fat Daddy's Family BBQ, I picked a very nice morning in may to stop in and enjoy a smoke free establishment that had no less than three servers in attendance! Needless to say, service was fast, friendly and professional! And, a good friend by the name of Louis Murray who was now the Manager of the kitchen, was in attendance. I'd known the man for many a year and can attest to his ability to cook most anything.

On this particular day, I elected to order the Smoked Breakfast Platter that consisted of two eggs, hash browns, toast and a choice of ham, bacon or sausage. A truly great menu item with which to start any day! The eggs were done to perfection along with everything else. (Something I'd grown to expect when eating at Fat Daddy's). Stop in and give them a try!

Fat Daddy's is located at 16020 US Highway 160 in Forsyth and can be reached by calling 417-546-4604!

Empire Electric's zany fee structure!

I recently viewed the back of a recent Electric bill from Empire just to take a gander at the detail and was flummoxed when I noted that one item, the 'Energy Efficiency Program Cost' amounted to over three dollars. I was confused about this and so Googled it. Very quickly, I discovered an article posted by the Joplin Globe - 'Empire seeks to recover costs of offering efficiency programs!'it went into some detail, but the bottom line was that statement by an attorney that stated,' It's very simple. The company wants you to pay for the revenue they will lose if you save energy.' 

WTF

So, if you took advantage of the $500 rebate and spent $5000 to install an energy efficient Central AC system, you will still be paying for it vs-a-vis the new fees. And if you could not afford a more energy efficient system, well, you still will pay for it! How neat is that for a company owned by a Canadian concern!

Perhaps this is just the tip of a growing fee(d) me effort. I'd bet in a few years we may well see even more added fees like;

High Tower Alignment Fee

Cross Town Emergency Fee

Low Efficiency Energy Fee

Uncle Bob's Retirement Program
Employee of the Month Program
Stick It in UR Arse Program

Well, you get the picture...

OXACA Mexican Restaurant celebrates Cinco De Mayo!

Forsyth MO - A local restaurant know as OAXACA is planning a great day of celebration  for the fifth of May, a date observed to commemorate the Mexican Army's unlikely victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla, on May 5, 1862, under the leadership of General Ignacio Zaragoza. 

I stopped at the venue, briefly, and shot a short video of the new bar area where thirsty patrons can stop to enjoy a quick libation before eating.  Want to see the menu? Go here!