Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Forsyth

What was called Shoals Bend RV Resort has changed its name. The family owned and operated park is located at 11020 St. Hwy 76 in Forsyth Missouri. The entrance is about two miles to the south of the bridge that crosses Bull Shoals. They offer full RV hookups, rental cottages, wireless internet and a nice swimming pool. For information, they can be reached at 417-546-3000 or you can email them at garry@shoalsbendrvpark.com. Their web site is at http://www.shoalsbendrvpark.com.

Mailbox-it in Forsyth Missouri

Mailbox-it is a full service parcel and print center located in a strip mall at 15796 US Hwy 160, right across from Peoples Bank in Forsyth Missouri. It represents a one stop location for FedEx and US mail with everything you might need in the way packaging containers big and small. Owned and operated by Donald and Bette Helm since 2001, Mailbox-it is also a US Cellular phone center, has office supplies and even does graphic design. For information, they can be reached at 417 546-7706 or via email at mailboxit5@centurytel.net.

The Tire Crew in Forsyth Missouri

The Tire Crew located at 13159 US Hwy 160 (just past H Hwy on 160) in Forsyth Missouri recently opened for business. Yes, they have tires and lots of them. I stopped there after seeing a cluster of three buildings that seemed to spring up from nowhere! The full service tire center is modern and busy!

From the signs I could see on the other buildings, there will also be a used car (Shelby's Auto) and motorcycle (Thunder Road) dealership located close by. Wow! (There are also rumors of yet a fourth business, but I haven’t confirmed anything yet). Please stop in and say hi to these folks and make them feel welcome!

The Tire Crew is managed by a gentleman named Steve Minard and their hours are currently Monday thru Friday 8AM to 6PM and Saturdays 8AM to 12PM. They are closed on Sundays. You can call  for information or to make an appointment at 417-546-7433.

The Post Office in Forsyth has a passport service!

It was with some surprise that I learned that the Post Office in Forsyth Missouri also is the place to go and get a passport book or card. I went in there with my sister in July to apply for a book as opposed to a card. It seems a passport card is only good for countries you can drive to. The book is for countries that you want to go to by air. That’s how it was explained to me anyway. The cost for the book was $150 and you will need to bring the following two ID’s; a birth certificate with raised lettering and a drivers license or state ID card.

The paperwork consists of filling out a DS-11 form which asks basic questions including information pertaining to your parent place of birth and date of birth. So, make sure you have this with you. The office is also able to take your picture or you may bring your own if you follow the instructions found in the DS-11 form.

The whole process takes no more than ten minutes or so. One thing that did surprise me is that your birth certificate is sent with the paperwork to the State Department. I was told it would come back, under separate cover, about the same time they send your passport. This process generally takes five to six weeks.

June 2010 was a record hot and dry month in SW Missouri!

June felt more like July or August in most of Missouri, rainfall was also on the very low side with my rain gauge measuring only about 1.69 inches.
 
Pat Guinan, a climatologist with the Missouri University Agriculture Program stated that June temperatures throughout the state were four to six degrees above average, making it the hottest June on record since 1957. Here in Forsyth, I measured a mean temperature of 78F. which was four degrees hotter than average.

On addition, the lack of good rainfall for many parts of southern Missouri boded ill for many crops including potatoes, rice and cotton. Some farmers are reporting that they are losing crops due to extreme heat with no rain. Only those with good irrigation systems are making do. Some areas have gone more than a month without a drop of rain. Here in Forsyth, I measured 1.69 inches of rain against an average of 4.3 inches (average rainfall  for West Plains).

BBQ was excellent at the Forsyth Fun Day event!

I think the heat definitely played a factor in what seemed was a lower than last year. Temperatures in the low nineties combined with very high humidity forced many to find what shade they could. The large trees to the right of the stage proved to be a popular spot for many in attendance.

In spite of the heat, the BBQ was excellent as competitors worked hard to come up with the best tasting recipes to be found anywhere. Just check out the picture of ribs! Now that's good eating! Boy, I’ll tell you, it’s hard to beat perfection, but these folks came pretty close!

While I could not stay long enough to hear who won the BBQ contest, for me it didn’t really matter. Personally, I would award ribbons to all the contestants who spent the long hours and braved high heat to bring such good tasting food to people like myself.

Boys & Girls Club Indoor Garage Sale on August 14

The Boys and Girls Club of the Ozarks will be sponsoring a ‘Junk in the Trunk’ Fair on Saturday, August 14th for anyone who would like to secure a vendor booth for $25. This is an INDOOR garage sale so hopefully the weather and heat will not be a concern.


The event will be held at the Forsyth Boys & Girls Club located at 501 Panther Rd. in Forsyth Missouri. For any questions of for directions, call Nathaniel Leech at 417-546-6299.

Iphone 4G quick fix

After Consumer Reports found that the IPhone 4G does in fact have a design flaw with its built in antenna, they also offered a solution of sorts. This would be to take a small length of non-conductive tape (duct tape?) and affixing it over the small gap along the bottom left edge of the phone. They found that this 'quick fix' will eliminate some of the problems with line dropout.

On Tipping and Sonic

One of the favorite fast food venues that my dad enjoyed before passing away in 2008 was to go to Sonics’ in Forsyth Missouri so we could sit in our car and enjoy a Sonic Berger and fries. This became a weekly ritual and I still carry on the tradition myself once in a while, diet permitting. The service there has always been extremely prompt and the carhops would always check back to make sure everything was satisfactory. The service they render is every bit as good as what I might receive at a sit down restaurant. So, it was with some surprise that I’ve recently learned that many people do not see fit to tip these hard working guys and gals. One server informed me that she made only three dollars in tips after working six hours. Now, it true that they do make a base wage, but I understand it’s a wage that is close to the minimum wage and so they depend on tips to make up the difference.

Now, I’m not writing about this to chide anyone on the paying of tips, but rather to ask that we take a moment to consider paying fairly for services rendered. Car-hopping is arduous at best and a plain downright challenge in nasty weather. Sonic, as matter of company policy, will not advertise that you can tip the carhops so it’s up to everyone to spread the word.

Shadowrock Park In Forsyth Missouri

Not many parks in Missouri have the history like that of Shadowrock. At times it has been the location of the town of Forsyth before dams up river forced it to relocate up the hill a couple of miles. During the Civil War, a brief battle was fought as Union troops bombarded the Court House as Confederates briefly held the position.

Today, the park which is neatly divided in half by Highway 160 has all manner of attractions including; tennis courts, playgrounds, a ball park, Rodeo and even places to camp and picnic. One section, close to the Bull Shoals River, has full RV hookups. If the park gets too full, there is another right across the bridge called River Run which can accommodate RV’s and tent campers.

Adding to the appeal of this recreational Park are numerous events held during the summer months. These include Car Shows, motorcycle swap meets, County Fairs, Demolition Derbies and cardboard boat races to name a few. As a matter of fact, this July 17th will see one of my all time favorite events; the BBQ Cook-off. Just imagine the smells of all sorts of meats being cooked slowly to perfection and what that will do to an appetite. This is something I look forward to all year long. It will be billed as a Forsyth Fun Day and will host entertainment along with the ever popular cardboard boat races.

Hair's The Place in Forsyth Missouri

It’s a fact that people seek beauty. They are constantly looking to improve what they have or even give themselves a whole new look. They drop by the nearest hair and beauty salon to be pampered by stylists and beauticians to style their tresses, shape their eyebrows, and color their nails – all in a setting that is relaxing and enjoyable. For myself, just an hour in a hair and salon shop every month and I emerge confident and ready to take on the world.

That’s why guys and gals from all over the Forsyth area have come to depend on owner Colleen Karnes’ Hair’s The Place saloon to help them look their best. I have frequented her shop located at 136 Rockhill Drive (kitty corner from the Shelter insurance office on Hwy 160) for some time now. Colleen offers a full range of beauty options and now has a talented stylist named Elise Morse working with her to offer only the best in haircuts, perms, hair coloring, nails and even pedicures. Their hours are Tuesday thru Saturday 9AM to 5 PM and while walk-ins are welcome, Colleen encourages her customers to call and set an appointment for the most prompt service. They can be reached by calling either 417-546-3039 or 417-251-0335.

Mobil One Express Auto Oil Change in Forsyth Missouri

Just down Coy Blvd. off Highway 160 in Forsyth, Mo. You can find one of the better managed oil change facilities. It’s called Mobil One Express Auto and is located at 194 Coy Blvd. I have been getting my oil changed there for some time now and can relate that on every visit there, it has been a pleasant one.

While the facility may specialize in oil changes, I’ve also found it to be closer to a full service facility.On my last visit they were able to fix a broken electric window riser at reasonable cost and in short order. They can do inspections, if you happen to need one and I also understand that they even have vehicles for sale. You can call for additional information and pricing at (417) 546-4224.

July 2013 update: For whatever reason, this facility decided to black out the windows that separate the oil change area from the waiting room.  I'm not sure that was such a great idea. It makes me wonder what it is they're trying to hide... Note: This situation did not last very long.

Jan 2016 update: This location has closed down and the operation moved.

White River Valley Historical Society

A recent visit to the White River Valley Historical Society was made all the better by my encounter with the fine folks that work there, especially Ms. Leslie Wyman, the managing Director. She graciously showed me around even though they were in between theme exhibits. They were getting ready for the opening of ‘Ladies Fancywork’ which will showcase women who historically employed many talents, from quilting to embroidery to the nearly lost art of tatting (a technique for handcrafting a particularly durable lace constructed by a series of knots and loops)! This is just one of a number of exhibits that are presented in the course of a year. Coming up in September 2010 will be one I will want to see called ‘Sportsman’s Paradise’ and which will highlight hunting and fishing in the Ozarks.

The buildings location is at 297 Main Street in Forsyth, Mo. which is just across from the newly constructed Taney County Judicial Building. They can also be reached at 417-546-2210 if you have questions and the Historical Society maintains a very informative web page at www.wrvhs.org.

Forsyth Fun Day coming on July 17th

It’s a BBQ Challenge and Forsyth Fun Day to be held this coming Saturday, July the 17^th at the Shadowrock Park. Call the Forsyth Chamber of Commerce at 417 546-2741 for information on competing in the BBQ challenge or the boat race. From 9 AM to 12PM there will be music (Hipp Katz) and entertainment including activities for the kids sponsored by the White River Valley Historical Society. In addition, there will be a silent auction, horseshoe tournament and sand volleyball. Our Fire, Rescue and Emergency folks will also be performing demonstrations and a live fly-in.

Starting at 11:00 AM, my favorite activity begins and that is the serving of award winning BBQ to us common folks. (I’m not sure what the charge will be for this ($5?), but I can tell you it’s worth every penny). While you’re eating, you can also inspect the cardboard boats that will be competing shortly after the noon hour.

Ozark Mountain Pawn in Forsyth Missouri

Tucked away in back of the White River Plaza is the Ozark Mountain Pawn shop owned and operated by Scott Novak. Scott’s shop houses all sorts of unique and sought after items including tools, ammo and fine jewelry all at bargain prices.

Scott’s shop is located at 14974 US Hwy 160 in Forsyth, Missouri and their phone number is 417-546-3778. The shop also specializes in jewelry repair and engraving. Stop by and say hi!

The Taney County Republican is back!

The Taney County Republican, a newspaper that has roots going back to 1895 is back in publication! I read the latest edition, cover to cove, and admit that even in an age of computers, it sure is nice to sit back and read what good journalists have to say.

You know in my opinion, amid all the chaos that is day to day life in the 21^st Century, there is still a niche to be filled by a newspaper you can hold in your hands and enjoy. Thanks for coming back!

Tropical depression Alex may (or may not) affect Missouri at some point

As of June the 27^th, the tropical storm named Alex is still getting its act together down in the Gulf of Mexico where it is expected to strengthen considerably over the next few days over warm Gulf waters. Then, after it makes landfall sometime around Thursday, it might just make a sweep through the southwest portion of Missouri toward the coming weekend as the probability map here suggests. So, another chance for heavy rain could be in the cards for next week sometime.

Political Commentary and more!

At Forsythkid.com

The Taney County Fair Video is now available

One would think, after shooting hours of video, that I would be able to come up with some sort of story line to visually show what was a most excellent five day event. Trouble was, a County Fair by its very nature, is a chaotic mix of many elements. There are crafts, music, food vendors, rides and politicians all competing for your attention.. Throw in some animals running amok and automobiles bent on complete destruction and what you get is a visceral and informational miasma that pleasantly assaults the senses from every direction. (Sort of like Congress on a good day).

So, putting something together for my You Tube Channel video was rather a challenge.  Not wanting to subject my audience to the raucous sounds of machinery gone wild!  I attempted to match a background musical track that had some semblance of relationship to the topic at hand. In the end, I came to realize that a Fair is really more about the people that attend it and how well they enjoy the experience, Thanks DanO!

Fireworks Display on June 26th

Saturday, June the 26th is a date to mark on your calendar. The Gift of Hope, a local charitable organization will be hosting a fundraiser at Shadowrock Park in Forsyth, Missouri from 6 to 9PM. Starting at 7PM will be entertainment by Big Smith. There will be fun and games for the kids with a raffle for adults that includes items like a flat screen TV and round trip tickets from the Branson Airport. There will also be an awesome fireworks display as soon as it gets dark or shortly after 9PM(note: the Fireworks display is free). Advance $10 tickets can be purchased at the Country Mart grocery in town as well as at other locations. Cost at the gate will be $12. For additional information you may call 417 546-8062 or checkout their web page at www.giftofhopeinc.org.

Taney County Fair Update

Friday afternoon at the Taney County Fair was a great time in spite of the heat. With temperatures hovering in the nineties, it was great to feel a nice breeze kick up in the late afternoon. This week marks the longest days of the year with the sun still shining brightly at 7:30 PM. I was able to walk around and talk to many of the candidates for public office, both incumbents and those running for the first time. Everyone including Chuck Pennel (presiding Commissioner), Scott Starrett, Ron Houseman, Donna Neeley and all the others were very cordial and open to questions.

That evening, starting at 7PM, the arena was the central point of attention as the Garden Tractor pull got off with a roar. I was amazed at how many different types of tractors there were and by how powerful they appeared to be, They were also pretty loud as each contestant attempted to pull a special sled that was rigged to be more difficult to pull the further the tractor pulls it.

Tonight, Saturday, the 19^th is the main event in my opinion as the Demolition Derby will begin at 7PM. Watching a bunch of cars get destroyed is always a good crowd pleaser and this year should see a good attendance. It’s cheap entertainment at only $5 at the gate. So, come on down and I’ll see you there!

Taney County Fair

The Fair, now in its third day of a five day run, has proven to be worth every penny of the $5 daily admission price. Spread out over much of Shadow Rock Park in Forsyth Missouri the Taney County Fair provides a lot of fun for all ages. There are more rides than I’ve seen in recent years and food is available for almost any taste. On my last visit I had a slice of pizza that was out of this world. There are also corn dogs, hamburgers and even cotton candy for sale by the various vendors.

The Fair is also a good opportunity to have a chance to get up close and personnel with some of the politicians that are running for office this fall. They have booths set up and are more than happy to discuss the issues of the day. Some of these politicians will be speaking publicly on the stage at around 7PM on Friday evening.

Tonight (Thurs, June the 17^th) at 6:30PM the very popular Little Miss Taney Beauty Contest will be held on the stage. Then at 7PM get ready for some hilarious action as the kids get a chance at Mutton Bustin. This will be followed by a good old fashioned Steer and Calf riding contest.

So grab your family and friends and come out to make an evening of it.

Thryllbilly Band

Watch here!

Taney County Fair Summary

Event Dates: Tuesday, June 15th through Saturday, June 19th, 2010

Stage Entertainment:

Tuesday, June 15th – Thrill Billys 7PM
Wednesday, June 16th – Mike & Nancy Micham 7PM
Thursday, June 17th – Little Miss Taney County – 6:30 PM
Friday, June 18th – Open mic & Politicians speak – 7PM
Saturday, June 19th – Open Mic – 7PM

Arena Events:
Tuesday, June 15th - Rodeo 7PM
Wednesday, June 16th - Rodeo 7PM
Thursday, June 17th - Mutton Bustin  7PM
Friday, June 18th - Garden Tractor Pull 7PM
Saturday, June 19th - Demolition Derby 7PM

Demolition Derby

This is one of those events that feels uniquely American to me! I attended the event last year and have to tell you it was a very enjoyable experience. The action starts at 7PM! Make sure you attend!

There will also be a Horseshoe Event on Saturday at 8:30 AM

Admission is $5 each day. Arm bands are $16.00 for the rides. The Gate opens at 4PM each day.

Yarn Diva Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at:

10726 E. State Hwy 76, Suite C

Forsyth, MO  65653

Owner: Sharon Betz

Date: June the 15th at 11:30 AM.

Sully’s Old Fashioned Family Restaurant Rating, Forsyth Missouri

My recent decision to eat at this new restaurant in Forsyth Missouri was not without some trepidation on my part. Shortly after it opened in May 2010, I’d heard a few rumors to the effect that the service was a little on the slow side and that some orders were not properly cooked. (This may have been simply due to the fact that the waiters and cooking staff were new. Or, it might have also been an attempt by others to simply discredit a new restaurant in a town where there are quite a few eateries already). So, I decided to check the venue out myself.

On this day, I invited along my sister to go have lunch and to sample their midday fare. This was on a Friday at about 12:30 PM. We arrived and noted a few cars parked in the lot. One of them, I noted, was a Department of Health vehicle. Turns out the inspector was eating there. I took that as a good sign.

Upon entering, my impression of the place was optimistic. The tables were clean and well maintained. We found a booth in the back area of the smoke free establishment and did not wait very long for service (maybe a minute or so). Our waitress was a lady we had met before named Peggy who had served us while working at another restaurant. Peggy, in my opinion, is a top notch server and a pleasure to talk to.

For lunch, we both elected to order the quarter pound Angus beef hamburger. I also ordered the half pound of French Fries which came to $4.99 for the meal and $1.50 for a large coke. I did not have to wait but a few minutes for the food to arrive and found the meat to be medium well done but still juicy while the fries were crisp and delicious. My sister’s only complaint was that the buns were not toasted.

This establishment can seat at least 75 to 100 (not sure what the fire code allows for) and the back area looks perfect for groups as the central tables can easily be moved together.

I ranked this visit as follows:

Quality of Service (1= I’ve been mugged & assaulted to a 10 = I want to put this waitress in my will!)

On this visit, I gave them a 9 rating overall. The waitress was a real pleasure!

Quality of Cuisine (1= I’m poisoned, call 911 to a 10 = I’m in heaven, so leave me alone!)

Great hamburger and fries. I gave this meal a 9 as did my sister.

Overall Experience (1= A toxic cesspool, to a 10 = I’m setting up my bed in the back!)

The restaurant was quiet, clean and I felt very comfortable being there. For this visit, I gave them a 9 rating.

In conclusion, while I cannot speak for the truth or possible falsity of rumors, I can state that my visit there was nice enough that I intend to eat there on as regular a basis as my diet will allow.

Consumers Pull Back Spending in May 2010

In a setback for the U.S. economic recovery, retail sales unexpectedly fell hard in May as consumers pulled back their spending on things from cars to clothing.


Retail sales tumbled 1.2%, the Commerce Department said Friday, prompting one forecaster to lower its outlook on second-quarter economic growth.

The retail sales report "is a reminder that households are not going to be the engine of growth for some time," Capital Economics economist Paul Dales wrote in a note, adding that the retail sales report "dramatically weakens the outlook for consumption growth in the second quarter."

Sectors showing losses:

Building and Garden Supply      -9.3%

Autos                                       -1.7%

Gas stations                              -3.3%

Clothing stores                          -1.3%

In spite of this and the high unemployment rate, some sectors showed modest gains:

Furniture sales                          1.0%

Electronic and Appliance          0.6%

Health and personal care           0.3%

Internet sales                            2.0%

Sporting Goods and Hobby      0.4%

Restaurant and bar                    0.1%

"Consumers are still shopping despite high unemployment, sluggish income growth, and relatively tight credit," said Insight Economics analyst Steven Wood.

Fireworks at New Vision General Baptist Church

On Sunday June the 27th, the New Vision General Baptist Church in Taneyville Missouri is having a service from 7 to 8PM with fireworks beginning at dark. Dinner will be provided from 5 to 6:30 PM. Be sure to bring blankets and lawn chairs if you are staying for the fireworks. For more information you can call 546-3112 or 546-6096.

Bridge Progress in Hollister-Branson June 2010

I had a chance to go down and get a picture of the work being done to construct a new access road from the Hollister side to the Branson side which will eventually be a one way road after the old bridge is resurfaced sometime in 2011. A gentleman that was driving a truck carrying trusses by the name of Tom informed me that the new bridge should be completed by November or December of this year. That’s the rumor he’s heard at least. What surprised me was the fact that getting across was not the nightmare I had been told. I actually crossed without having to stop once for construction crews! So, for the short term, at least, if you live to the east as in Kirbyville or Forsyth and you want to go that way to get into Branson, have at it.

Hydroplane Boat Race in Rockaway Beach Mo.

Check out the video here!

Charlie's Breakfast Rating

In a previous report, I mentioned my desire to critique Charlie’s Steak Ribs and Ale in Forsyth Missouri. It was a Monday and had slept in late so I missed the morning breakfast crowd. On arrival, I elected to sit at the bar and have my lunch there. I was immediately acknowledged by the server, Dianna. She took my order for a coffee and a virgin Mary to be followed by the steak and eggs platter. The drinks were excellent and the food was served promptly (within ten minutes) and the overall presentation was good. When I ordered I was given a choice of rare medium rare and well done. The steak was a little more done than I would consider medium well but was tasty none the less. The hash browns were done with a slight crunch and the eggs were sunny side up and done to perfection. Following are my scores for this visit:


Quality of service (1= I’ve been mugged & assaulted to a 10 = I want to put my waitress in my will!) On this visit I gave them an 8.
Quality of the food (1= I’m poisoned, call 911 to a 10 = I’m in heaven, so leave me alone!) A slight demerit for the steak, but overall the food was a solid 9.
Overall eating experience (1= A toxic cesspool to a 10 = I’m setting up my bed in the back!) The restaurant was quiet, clean and I felt comfortable being there. For this visit I gave them a 9 rating.

So, overall the score was in the low end of the excellent or what I would call the ‘Happy Camper’ range.

Breakfast at Charlie’s in Forsyth Mo.

Charlie’s Steak, Ribs and Ale is a restaurant located in Forsyth Missouri. It’s been in operation for over a couple of years now and is located close to the intersection of Hwy 160 and Y Hwy. I’ve had occasion to eat there a number of times (all pleasant experiences) and will admit to frequenting the full service bar which is a nice place to stop for a cool libation on a hot day. (Say hi to Brandy if you do stop by)!

In recent months, Charlie’s has begun offering a varied breakfast menu, and I thought it might be fun to see just how good their breakfast fare is. (Before reading any more, please understand that this eatery has already been recommended by many of my discerning friends). (Note: this report is not meant to be scientific,  it's the thoughts of just a local stopping in for some food and atmosphere).

My plan is do this early on Monday, May 24th. On that date, I had decided to try out the Steak N Eggs which includes an 8 oz hand cut sirloin, 2 eggs hash browns and a choice of bread. A seeming bargain at only $7.99. I felt for the purpose of this blog entry, I wanted to quantify this eating experience a bit, so I came up with three subjective criteria:

Quality of service (1= I’ve been mugged & assaulted to a 10 = I want to put my waitress in my will!)

Quality of the food (1= I’m poisoned, call 911 to a 10 = I’m in heaven, so leave me alone!)

Overall eating experience (1= A toxic cesspool to a 10 = I’m setting up my bed in the back!)

So, that is what I wanted to go with. Just those three criteria. (As I mentioned, while this may not be very scientific, I hope to impart something of worth). You might note that I shied away from rating the cost of the meal, as I’ve always felt you get what you pay for. (If you want cheap eats, then head for to a fast food hook me up). I'll now cover some thoughts on each category.


Quality of Service - In my mind good service is just what it says. When you enter a place that serves food, you expect to be shown to a table promptly and then you expect your serving professional to be just that, a professional. Someone who is on top of all the specials and who looks neat and who makes your eating experience a pleasure.

Quality of food - This category is of utmost important to me. If the food is of poor quality or is not cooked properly (or is moving), then everything else is quickly forgotten. I'm not looking so much for quantity as I am quality.

Overall experience - This is a sort of catchall category. It encompasses a lot of little things like the atmosphere, ambiance and yes, even the smell of the establishment. If it's a venue that you feel you want to go back to again, then it should score at least a 20 or so.

As of May 2012, they are still in business and doing quite well. I have been a regular customer there for some time now and can attest to the food and beverages!

Taney County Candidate Announcement

Rockaway Beach Hydroplane 2010

The hydroplane races are scheduled for June 5^th and 6^th this year and information is available by calling 417-561-4280. These races are a sure good time assuming the weather holds. I hope to attend and get some great video footage which will be aired on YouTube on the Danomanno Channel.

See you all there!

Forsyth Missouri VFW Swap Meet

Forsyth to Host Citywide Garage Sale Saturday, May 8th

Every year about this time the City of Forsyth, Missouri sponsors a massive garage sales for both businesses and citizens alike. There will be portable tables springing up all up and down Highway 160 each piled high with all sorts of merchandise for sale. This is  great opportunity for everyone to get out and find that perfect bargain while catching up on local gossip at the same time.

Sully's Restaurant Closed

What used to be called The Long Horn Restaurant located across from Fat Daddy’s its now Sully’s Old Fashioned Family Restaurant and is under new management. Scheduled to open on or around the 12th of May. The new owner is a gentleman by the name of  Kenny and the establishment's hours will be from 6AM to 7PM seven days a week with an earlier closing at 3PM on Sundays.

Expect great fair with an emphasis on Country Fried Steak and Chicken. This is a family owned establishment with over twelve years of experience behind them and I plan to eat there shortly after they open. Too bad this eatery did not make it and closed in early 2011.

Spam Alert – Bogus Checks Via UPS

It’s a great day when the UPS truck pulls up into your driveway with a small envelope that contains a single money order to the tune of $750! No note, just a postal check for money, but from who? That was the question I also had in my mind.

So, I did some checking. I started by calling the company that was listed as the address from which this bundle of joy had been sent. I quickly discovered it is a scam! What a surprise! As you can see, the check looks real doesn’t it? But alas, I quickly discovered that if I were to cash it, I would find it to be bogus. So how does the scam work?

Well, I’m supposed to be receiving an Email telling me to send part of the money to another location. I would then find out later on that the postal order was indeed bogus and that my bank would like to have a talk with me. Later on it might be the postal authorities or FBI.

Moral of the story. If you get money in the mail you did not earn, contact the authorities and give your bank a heads up. These scams often come from overseas as part of a world wide effort to bring America down.

Shadow Rock Park in Forsyth Missouri

Right across the Bull Shoals River from River Run Park is the great recreation site of Shadow Rock Park that features many of the same amenities as River Run but with a different slant. For one thing the campsites are much closer together which is great if you have a large group outing planned. The park itself is cut in half by Highway 160 with picnic tables, tennis courts and a playground on one side and the camping area on the other. Also, on the camping side can be found a public event area that features a small rodeo, band shell and baseball park. During the summer many different kinds of events are held there including swap meets, craft shows, horse events and even demolition derbies.

Shadow Rock Park used to be the site of the original town of Forsyth and back in the Civil War years this location was the site of a struggle between Union and Confederate forces. A short battle was even fought on these grounds with Union artillery stationed on the high ridge that overlooks the park area proper. The town was burned to the ground, then rebuilt and then eventually moved to higher ground in the 1900’s after new dams in the area caused periodic flooding. Today, it is a great spot to come to relax and get away from it all. Information about the park can be obtained by calling (417) 546-2876.

River Run Park in Forsyth Missouri 2010

After a couple of seasons when River Run Park was closed due to flooding, it’s now back in operation and doing business down here in southwestern Missouri. On a beautiful day in early May, I packed my lunch and went to the park for an informal picnic. As I sat by the rivers edge, I noted workmen who were busy replacing large metal canopies that had been lost in the previous flood. I was very pleased to see that even though these are still shaky times economically, the Core of Engineers are still maintaining this gem of a recreational area.

There is an interactive map available on the internet for anyone interested in coming down for a stay at one of the many campsites that are available here. The park can handle anything from large RV’s down to simple tents with fees that run about $18 per night. Most of the sites are improved with access to water and electricity. Other amenities include: a boat launch ramp, dump station, flush toilet, playground, bike and trail access and showers. Additional information can be obtained by calling (417) 546-3646.

Swap Meet at VFW in Forsyth Missouri April 30 and May 1st

This coming Friday and Saturday be sure to stop by the VFW in Forsyth Missouri to take advantage of a swap meet being organized by Ginger Davidson and Bill Bishop. Danomanno will be providing some tunes and there will be a food vendor on site.

Swap meets are a great way to spend some time checking out great deals offered by the vendors who have some really interesting stuff at prices that are well below wholesale. I like these events as friends and neighbors who show up can also catch up on what’s happening and maybe exchange some gossip.

Vendors are needed and the setup fee was only $5 last time I checked - Call (417) 251-1931 for more information.

Forsyth Missouri Swap Meet a Fun Time

I had the opportunity of attending and performing as a DJ at Swap Meet in the VFW parking lot in Forsyth Missouri on Friday and have to say that a better bunch of vendors you could not find. For those of us that enjoy social repartee along with the excitement of finding a good buy, then you must check out this weekly event which airs its wares each Friday and Saturday. The pricing is sharp and goods are fun to browse. This weekend there was a lady named Sarah who even had three adorable puppies up for sale. I was tempted to buy one myself.

Events like Swap Meets are a great way to spend a little bit of the day getting out and maybe even running in to someone you know. If you live close to Forsyth, please stop by and say hi!

Motorcycle Swap Meet in Forsyth Missouri a Success!

By chance, I stumbled onto a really cool swap meet that was held on Sunday, April the18th at the Shadow Rock Park in Forsyth Missouri. Had I gone to the Freedom of the Road Riders page on the Internet, I would have know beforehand about the meet. As it was I got there at about 2PM while everything was still in progress. Admission was $5 and well worth the price. There were vendors there that had some out of this world merchandise that was biker related, of course. I also estimated over 500 motorcycles were parked in the field adjacent to the main vendor area. Some of the motorcycles were works of art in their own right and were eclipsed only by the diversity of clubs that were in attendance.

If you would like to do something different this coming fall, the next event is scheduled for September the 26 in the same spot.

By all accounts, this event was quite successful and a must see next time if you're in the area. See you there!

The Diamondback Band’s Appearance at the Frosted Mug a Grand Success

It was a Saturday night and the joint was jumping at John’s Frosted Mug in Forsyth Missouri where a capacity crowd enjoyed cuts from the newly released album by the Diamondback Band.

The band played for two hours during a special ‘CD Release Party’ that saw many celebrities in attendance including Tommy Overstreet from Branson Missouri. Tommy has entertained people around the world and is known as the ‘King of Countrypolitan’.

A You Tube video on the Danomanno Channel featuring the song ‘Water Under the Bridge’ is now available for viewing.

Diamond Back Band CD Release Party