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.