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!

Forsyth Senior Center looking to add full time cook!

Forsyth MO. - The newly appointed Center Administrator, Jo Crosley, at the Forsyth Senior Friendship site located at 13879 Hwy 160, in Forsyth MO. informed me that they were actively seeking a full time cook (valid as of April 9, 2018)! This is a salaried position that does include benefits. Listen up! This could be a great opportunity for the right individual. I've eaten there numerous times  over the years and have always found the food served there to be of the highest quality!

If you have what it takes, are a hard worker and a great cook, please call 417-546-6100 as soon as you can!

Lunch at the Long Horn in Forsyth!

Forsyth MO. - As it had been sometime since I'd gone out anywhere for lunch, I decided to visit the Long Horn Family Dining eatery located on Highway 160 in Forsyth Missouri on what was a rainy early spring day!

Prices were accurate as of March 2018

It would be very correct for me to state that I'm rather picky as to what I consider a good lunch food candidate. One of my definite favorites is a good old fashioned hamburger and fries! The Long Horn offers a 'Kountry Burger' menu item that is really your basic third pounder along with a generous serving of French fries! 

Great food and fair prices in a venue with a family ambiance.

Charlie's restaurant is for sale or lease!

Forsyth, Mo. - Strategically located near the intersections of Hwy 160 and Y is a  beautiful business that closed in December of 2017 and is currently available for sale or lease! Formerly, Charlie's Ribs Steak and Ale, this was a popular venue for over a decade. Today, in March 2018, it could be a great fit to the right business enterprise.

While, it's no secret that the large square footage proved to be something of a problem for profitability by the former management, the over all structure has been well maintained and perhaps with a little creative thinking, could be turned around quickly.

My thinking for this building would be of a divide and conquer sort of approach. That is to say, if one were to separate the interior into two businesses, then possibly it could work. I was thinking that one side could still be a bar/eatery while the other side could be turned into offices or possibly a 5 and 10 sort of store.

The property was currently being offered by KW Commercial and was represented by Jim and Chris Bolin who could be reached at 417-224-7445.

Update: As of mid July, 2018, the property is still available for $850K with leasing terms available.

Easter Dinner at the Mug!

Forsyth Mo. - Easter falls on Sunday, April the 1st which is also April Fools Day for 2018. (An interesting juxtaposition what with the celebration of the rising of Christ and all). At any rate, John's Frosted Mug will be serving up a great meal consisting of ham, scalloped potatoes, corn and a cupcake for just $7.50. However, two things are unknown at the time I posted this; what the serving times are that day and whether or not the venue will sub in something like spam for the ham. After all, it is April Fools Day!

You can find out for yourself by calling to check the serving time at 417-546-4149 or by stopping there anytime after 11AM. Their address is 15861 US Hwy 160 in Forsyth Missouri!

Frosted Mug on St. Patrick's Day!

Forsyth MO. - Saturday, March the 17th is Saint Patrick's Day for 2018! Saint Patrick's Day is a cultural and religious celebration held on 17 March, the traditional death date of Saint Patrick (c. AD 385–461), the foremost patron saint of Ireland. But, for most Americans today, it is a time of celebration, green beer and lots of food food!

To that end, John's Frosted Mug will be offering up a great 'feast' that will include corned beef, cabbage, new potatoes, carrots and rye bread for only $7.50! And while I'm unsure as to the color of the beer, they do have a one of a kind Irish Elf which I've been told is 'well hung'!

Frosted Mug has an opening!

Egg prices have gone way up! Why?

Forsyth MO. – Anyone who may have desired to purchase a carton of eggs may also have been shocked by the recent rise in the price! Back in November of 2017, I bought a dozen eggs for at the Country Mart just seventy nine cents! Then right after the New Year, the prices shot up and to around $2.49 in mid march 2018! Wow. Why exactly is that?

Iowa State University professor Hongwei Xin, who directs the school’s Egg Industry Center, says domestic and international demand for U.S. eggs have been on the rise.

“We are at 273.7, about 274 eggs per capita per year,” he says of U.S. consumption. “This is the highest of the past 38 years.” And he says it’s expected to continue climbing.

So, increased demand is one factor! Another key factor relates to the Avian flu, which have decimated flocks world wide.

The good news is that U.S. egg producers appear to be increasing the size of their laying flocks, which ultimately will increase supply and potentially push prices down, this according to the USDA.

Xin also says it’s important to take the long view of egg prices. From 2010-2014, the average price of a dozen eggs in the first quarter was $1.22 per dozen. That was before the avian flu outbreak wreaked havoc on the industry, so the projection for the next few months is below what consumers have weathered in the recent past.

Shopping at Country Mart!

15720 U.S. 160, Forsyth, MO 65653 * 417-546-2101

Forsyth MO – It was a Friday and with a scrawled grocery list grasped firmly in hand, I headed out to the local Country Mart to buy myself a bit of food. The day was pretty typical for early to mid March; cloudy with a noticeable southwest wind that hinted at some rain later on in the day. I parked my aging Jeep in a spot far enough from the entrance to ensure I'd get at least some exercise that day.

The Country Mart is one of about four employee owned stores that exist in and around southwest Missouri. They offer a very satisfying selection of foods, liquors, Deli and pharmaceutical items.

The store in Forsyth MO. is nicely laid out and after having shopped there for a number of years, I've got it pretty well figured out. The employees there are a very nice bunch of individuals who always seem to make an effort at being cheerful and helpful. Randy, who manages the Produce Department is one of the hardest working individuals I've ever seen. (His produce is always very well maintained, fresh and inviting). The Deli area isn't too shabby either and in that spot you will often find the very good natured Sheila, who always seems to laugh at my inane comments. (I've never really figured out if she laughs because she thinks I'm funny or if she's just laughing at me...). Whichever, she's a good person and it shows!

On this day, my list was short for two reasons; lack of much money and the fact I'm on a perennial diet. I had it in mind to make up a batch of chili which I like to mix into a bowl of pasta for a sort of Cincinnati-styled dish where I'll add some minced onion and cheese to the affair. Interestingly, if you keep the portions of some sort of sane amounts, this dish is not a diet breaker. (It's not a diet fixer either, but at my age one does the best one can). In any case, I was able to locate all the stuff I needed very quickly and have always felt that the prices are better than what could be found elsewhere. Thanks Country Mart!

Issues at the Frosted Mug!

Forsyth Mo – John's Frosted Mug is a bar slash restaurant that has been an icon in my small town for a number of decades. When I was working, I'd often stop there for a couple of cold beers and maybe a game of pool after I'd get off. I started going there back in 1992 or so and feel that I know the venue fairly well.

That was then, and now is now, however. The Mug, in my opinion, faces a number of issues that could prove to be problematic for any long term survival. Let me list five of them here;

1. I cannot remember when either the outside or the inside has last seen a significant effort at renovation. In 2018, it's now showing some clear signs of wear and tear that likely do little to improvement customer expectations.
2. The Mug is a smoking only facility, meaning that there are no accommodations for non-smokers there at all! At a time where people have quit or are quitting in record number, this venue has become less and less appealing to larger and larger numbers of potential customers.
3. The menu and especially the specials have become predictable and therefore uninspiring. While the quality of the food there is good, recent price increases may be playing to a smaller dinner crowd.
4. The lone pool table has issues, (this according to a few avid players I've talked to). Apparently the rails have some dead spots that makes clean play a problem.
5. Screaming infants really have no place in a smoke filled adult bar, yet they make regular appearances.

These are all problems that have pretty straight forward solutions. I decided to post this, not to condemn the establishment, but in the hopes that some needed changes can be made so that it will once again become a thriving and popular place to grab a cold one on a hot summer day.

Long Horn Family Dining!

Forsyth MO. - In what's become a rare occurrence, as of late, I arose on an overcast and rain swept morning in February and went out for breakfast. I choose the Long Horn Family Dining restaurant as it had been some time since I last ate there.

The establishment is located on the Highway 160 strip that runs through Forsyth and is located right across from Fat Daddy's BBQ. There menu is strictly down home country fare and I've learned to trust them and the quality of their food offerings over a long period of time.

Today was really to be more or less an update as I've written a fair number of articles about eating there in the past and have generally giving them great reviews. Today was no exception other than to make one remark about the god awful size of the fork I was given! It was the kind of fork a really large man might enjoy, but for me it was a bit like eating with a spatula! That said the food was excellent and the prices were fair (for 2018).

That leftover bridge could be utilized!!

Forsyth MO. – Sometime in the coming fall of 2018, the new bridge over Bull Shoals will be completed. When that happens, it's my understanding that the old bridge will stay, be sealed off with foot and bicycle traffic still being allowed.

While looking at a picture of that bridge (above), it occurred to me that there is a decent amount of space along that span! Space that perhaps could be utilized to some extent in future years.

Specifically, I was thinking about small vendor stalls being erected along one lane that could be made available to anyone who wanted to walk up and purchase whatever it was being sold. Of course, parking spaces would be needed at the end opposite the turnaround. I was thinking something like 20 or so spaces where someone could park their vehicle and then stroll along the bridge. Perhaps even steps could be created just before the turnaround area to give walkers access to and from Shadowrock Park. Now, I'm aware that this would be a tall infrastructure order. The area would need power, water and toilet and waste facilities. Still, if done right, it would be unique...

Such a setup, if done properly, would be sure to garner some national press. Something that would be very good for our area.

Restaurants where are yee?

One of the reasons I've tended to shun the local restaurants in and around Forsyth MO as of late could be summed up in the picture taken out of my daily diary. As mortal man, it is all to easy for me to consume foods that are not in our best interests! Even a simple meal of small portions as shown above can be a dietary wrecking ball! You could just imagine, then, what some of the breakfast offering do to the heart and waistline at some of the local eateries... I'd love to see them begin to offer up fruit plates, creative salads - Well, you know, stuff that no one wants to order...

Ozark Country Crafts opens in Forsyth!

Wayne and Jean!

Forsyth MO. – Two new to the area resident, Jean and Wayne have recently opened a store front on Highway 160 next to the Bait Shop and just across from the Court House! I had a chance to stop by and check out a few of the many interesting products that they have to offer. I thought that their soy candles were a great idea as they are cleaner burning that regular candles with much less soot! I was also attracted to their display of lit containers including all sort of bottles! Also in evidence were wooden object de art along with original paintings done by Jean.

Ozark Country Crafts is really a fun kind of place to stop and shop in the Forsyth area. Their hours are 10-5 Tuesday thru Friday and Saturday 10-2. Also, be sure to stop by their very awesome web site at www.ozarkcountrycrafts.com where you can browse through their extensive catalog and even learn a little about these two very interesting people!
 www.taneyweather.com

eBay workshop offered in Branson!

Branson MO. - According to the November 1 edition of the Taney County Times, a workshop that will cover 'Buying and Selling' on eBay will be offered on November 14 starting at 6PM at the Taneyhills Community Library located at 200 South 4th Street in Branson Missouri!

Acclaimed local author Josh Young (Myths and Mysteries) will deliver an entertaining and informative talk on how to navigate, buy and post items on the very popular eBay platform.

This should be a very popular event and the organizers are urging interested parties to call and make a reservation in order to make sure they have a spot. You can call the library at 417-334-1418 to make the reservation and in case you have any additional questions.

Rockaway Beach to hold first Main Street meeting!

Rockaway Beach MO. - The first ever Town Hall Meeting for the Rockaway Beach Main street will be held on November the 9th, 2017 at 6:30 PM at the Community Center located at 2762 Street on Highway 176 in Rockaway Beach! In case you're not familiar with the Main Street Affiliate program here is a short explanation that was taken from their site:

'Main Street Alliance is a national network of small business coalitions working to build a new voice for small businesses on important public policy issues. Alliance small business owners share a vision of public policies that work for business owners, our employees, and the communities we serve.

The Main Street Alliance national network formed in 2008 to give Main Street small business owners a new voice in the health care reform debate, and has since broadened its focus to work on a range of issues that matter to small businesses and local economies. Our growing network includes small business coalitions in over a dozen states.'

According to an article published  on November 1 in the Taney County Times, 'The evening will begin with a presentation from Missouri Main Street about the Main Street Approach ( registered trademark) to Revitalization.'

Additional information can be obtained by calling Jim Harriger, Director of the White River Community Development at 417-880-0749 or via email at jmharriger@gmail.com!

Forsyth Events occurring on October 28!

Forsyth Halloween Parade!

Forsyth MO. – It's time for the annual Halloween Parade which is being hosted, once again, by the City of Forsyth. Registration is to occur in the parking lot of the Forsyth Presbyterian Church at 1PM on Saturday, October the 28th with the actual parade taking place from 2PM to 4PM. Pre-school through 4^th grade children are invited to participate. After the parade, and also in the 2-4PM time frame, will be the annual Trick or Treat Community Party which will be happening in the aforementioned parking lot!

Fall Cleanup Day set!

Not to be outdone with the kids parade, The Taney County Commission has designated October 28, as the day to allow Taney County residents to dispose of certain items at the two transfer stations – for free! One of the stations is located at 274 Buchanan Road with the other on Hwy 160 just three miles to the north of Forsyth near the Taney Center. From 8AM to 3:30PM, residents can dump; furniture, appliances and automotive batteries. Also allowed will be most anything made of metal or lumber. Glass will also be accepted as long as it is segregated from other items being disposed of. If you have any questions, you can give the Taney County Road and Bridge Department a call at 417-546-7268. You will be required to present some form of proof of residency before you will be allowed to dump stuff off. Note also that the Buchanan Road Transfer Station only will allow the dropping off of tires for a $1 fee per tire. The limit, per resident, is 12 tires at that location! www.taneyweather.com