Caribbean restaurant to open soon!

 

Forsyth Mo. - The Caribbean Islands comprise a group of island nations situated off the southern tip of Florida. Many rich and different cultures reside there. So, it was with some interest that I learned that a restaurant that was going to serve Caribbean cuisine was due to open in Forsyth MO!

Caribbean cuisine (for those who don't know) is a fusion of African, Creole, Cajun, Amerindian, European, Latin American, Indian/South Asian, Middle Eastern, and even Chinese. These traditions were brought from many different countries, when people originally moved to the Caribbean.

Ingredients that are common in many of the dishes are rice, plantains, beans, cassava, cilantro, bell peppers, chickpeas, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, coconut, and any of various meats that are locally available like beef, poultry, pork or fish. A characteristic seasoning for the region is a green herb-and-oil-based marinade which imparts a flavor profile which is quintessentially Caribbean in character. Ingredients may include garlic, onions, scotch bonnet peppers, celery, green onions, and herbs like cilantro, Mexican mint, chives, marjoram, rosemary, tarragon and thyme. That kind of fare sounded very interesting to me, so I stopped by the location that used to be the Long Horn on Highway 160 to investigate!

According to their FB site, the name of the restaurant will be called The Coqui! That is supposed to be a family style restaurant and is expected to open sometime in March. Breakfasts will be served from 8am to 11am, lunches from 11am to 1:30 pm and à la carte all day after 12:00 pm. No mention as to whether they plan to serve liquor. 

I'll try and post whenever I hear anything new! BTW. Amazon sucks!

Assorted Forsyth area topics!

Area Parks

Over the past two years, Bull Shoals has flooded out a couple of area parks that I really like to frequent! Both Shadowrock Park (SRP) and River Run, spent the past two summers under the waves, with the most recent flood lake level clearly shown on the fence near a baseball field.

In both years, heavy rains in early and late March began the flood cycle in earnest. Cleanups that generally occurred in October have been costly with Forsyth losing any potential for income from their 99 year lease on SRP. Sadly, this situation is very likely to repeat itself in the future.

On a beautiful day in early October, I stopped to enjoy a lunch while watching a few boaters try their luck at catching fish. I was surprised to not see many others in similar pursuits either on the shore or on the water. I would encourage local residents to take advantage of a run of pleasant temps that should hold out through at least mid month. Yes, the parks are a bit dirty and dusty and will have to await the next good rain to get washed off, but overall most every thing was in good shape.

I did talk briefly with a representative of Forsyth concerning the cleanup of the roads and was told that 'nature would take care of that'. So, at least one park should be available for use (River Run was closed) for those who might want to take advantage on through the fall and coming winter months. Then, in March of 2021, we will see what happens...

New TCAD building!

Reducing area response times for ambulance services was the driving force behind the new building being erected at the former location of the Park Place convenience store. A site near the round-about on Highway 160/76. Construction was moving along at a rapid pace, it seemed to me and I was guessing that the building would be realdy by December.

I apologise for the terrible formating that this Goole owned site, which used to be excellent, has devolved into...

Nefarious activities reported in the Forsyth area!

Forsyth MO - A local resident reported to me that there had been break-ins reported in a mobile home park off Hwy 76 near Forsyth Mo.

If true, I'd advise everyone to be observant and if you see suspicious activity, to report that activity to local authorities.

Chiefs clinch a Superbowl spot while I watched at the Frosted Mug!

Forsyth MO. - Another Sunday football playoff game was to be watched in very comfortable conditions, even as it was chilly outside!

Surprisingly, considering that only one of three heating units was in operation at John's Frosted Mug located on Hwy 160 in Forsyth MO., it still was a very comfortable 75 degrees. I attributed this to the heat given off by a packed house that enjoyed watching the Chief's shellac the Titans in a decisive 35 to 24 game at Arrowhead. A game that saw the KC Chiefs headed to the Superbowl for only the third time (once in 1967 and again in 1970 in a year they won! That year the American Football League champion Kansas City Chiefs defeated the National Football League champion Minnesota Vikings by the score of 23–7)! 

This time around the Chiefs will face the San Francisco 49'ers at the Hard Rock stadium in Miami Florida. I betting that weather will not pose a problem for either team on Sunday, January 26 at 5:30 PM EST on Fox! Grab a choice seat now for only $20 payable to me.... just kidding.

Water outages mount in Forsyth MO.

Taneycomo Terrace – At a complex that routinely sees problems arise due to old infrastructural concerns and just bad luck, yet another page was added when yet another water pipe sprung a leak! A second such occurrence in under a month!

Crews began working on what appeared to be a small feeder line early in the day on Thursday, Jan 9, 2020. Six hours later, water services still had not been restored. After doing a drive-by, I was informed that it would be another couple of hours which set the repair effort for a six inch line at about eight hours. About 3 to 4 men were involved in that herculean effort! That we are seeing so many failures in water lines that were installed in the 90's is troubling to say the least.

In under a month, I'd experienced two power outages, two water supply interruptions and a cable problem. Yes, living in Taneycomo Terrace is anything but dull. 

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!

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!

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.

Frosted Mug has an opening!

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!

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).

Hoofing it to the grocery store!

A few miles from my home is one of two grocery stores in the small town of Forsyth Missouri. The one I prefer (and which is also the closest) is called Country Mart. I like this store for the great variety of foodstuffs offered not to mention the very efficient checkout staff.

 

As I am also a very OCD kind of individual, I like to keep good records on what I purchase there. I keep the records in a data file and am about to produce a number of useful reports as a result. This report shown at right, reflects my purchases on a typical Saturday in September. I generally like to shop about twice a week, getting only the items I would need for the next several days. And, as a person living on a fixed income, I look for generic or for stuff on sale. Still, I've noticed that the cost of groceries has slowly crept upwards over time. Seriously, twenty bucks just don't buy all that much anymore. 

If I were to state any complaints, it would be the manner in which you 'save' on particular items. I've always felt that these supposed savings are somewhat contrived. Just give me the best deal you can and I would be happy!

Thrive Coffe Shop and Cafe!

Forsyth MO. - Just across the street from the Library, sits a cozy little eatery that caught my interest during the early going of September. I'd seen the marquee a few times when cruising up Main Street and had heard from a couple of friends that it was a sort of unique experience. So, curiosity killed the cat once again.

On my first visit, I talked to one of the owners, a nice woman named Charyle who quickly filled me in on some of the particulars of the place. I learned right off that she was one of four sisters who ran the shop, a venue that is open from 7AM to 2 PM Monday through Friday. And while they do not have carry out menu, at that point in time, did maintain a large chalkboard with all the days offerings. I was amazed to learn that everything offered in the way of pastries was made on site! 

As I talked to Charyle, I learned that Thrive was a smoke free establishment which seats about 30, has restrooms and takes Visa card payments. Even more interesting to me was the fact that they offer community WiFi so that a diner can sit and browse the Internet while enjoying a cup of coffee or a sandwich. As I understand it, the pass code for access was 'drinkmorecoffee'! Inquiries can be made by calling 417-251-2375 and the formal location is 153 Main Street, Forsyth MO 65653.

Sadly, I did not have time to stop and sample any of their offerings, but will do so in the future and plan to enter the experience via an update to this post!

That bag credit offered by Country Mart!

 Forsyth MO. – A local grocery store named Country Mart is my store of choice for all my sundry needs. That said, there are a few things I don't particularly like, chief of which is the so-called 'bag credit. A credit of 3 cents, if a patron comes in with their own means of carrying out their purchases. I assume they give this credit in order to save on the plastic or paper bags they would otherwise have to supply.

My problem is that the savings to a customer is likely minuscule when compared to what it costs the store to supply all that paper and plastic to the consuming public! At three cents saved per visit, one would have to visit the store over 600 times in order to recoup @20! That's sort of a joke, if you ask me.

Farmer's Market in Forsyth!

Forsyth MO. - Every summer, vendors gather together in the parking lot just across from the Courthouse to offer interested buyers a wide array of mouth watering produce. On this day, I decided to see if I could score me a few home grown tomatoes - you know the kind that are the exact opposite of the hot house variety and which are a signature ingredient in BLT's - a summertime favorite of mine!

As you can see from the photograph above - one vendor had a good selection of all kinds of produce including other items like jars of honey! However, it was the tomatoes that I was after and it was tomatoes I got! Later that same day, I made myself one of the best sandwiches I've ever had!

Peggy's Park Place offers affordable spirits and wine!

Forsyth Mo.- If you live near Forsyth Missouri or commute to Hollister or Branson via Hwy 160 and 76 - Then you will likely go by Peggy's Park Place quite often. The well stocked convenience store has been in operation for many years, and it a nice place to shop for those 'must have' necessities in life. (In my case, that'd be beer, snacks and or wine depending on my mood).

The good thing about the liquor offered at this location near the tree way intersection of Hwy 160 and 76 by the Bull Shoals bridge, is that their prices are as good as or better than most of the other stores in the area! That why I've made Peggy's a regular stop whenever I'm thirsty or hungry as they also have a great Deli that serves up sandwiches!

On this particular afternoon, when I stopped, the lovely Tiffany Williams was working. Not only is she smart as a whip, but Tiffany is also well versed in being able to help offer directions to people from out of town who might be vacationing and are lost.

Two area parks closed for the season!

 

View of Shadow Rock Park from Hwy 160!

 Forsyth MO. – Two very popular parks located near Forsyth MO became flooded late in April and are likely to remain closed for the balance of the year!

Heavy rains, once again fell over much of southwest Missouri as the Gulf of Mexico opened back up with a vengeance. And, whenever a lot of rain fall in a short time, the series of reservoirs that constitute Beaver, Table Rock and Bull Shoals get backed up. This will have a bad overall effect on many businesses that count on the extra income that summertime vacationers bring. One business, in particular, is a convenience store called Peggy's Park Place. Please be sure to go there and to support her at this time of need!This is a start up business and is all about what we are all about! Also impacted in a negative way will be the City of Forsyth that gets income from one of the parks directly.

So, if you're thinking of coming down to stay at either Shadow Rock or River Run Parks, make sure to check with the Corps of Engineers first!

Peggy's Park Place Market in Forsyth MO

 Forsyth MO. - What with the summer season just around the corner, area parks near my southwestern town in Missouri are already filling up with vacationers and sportsmen from all over! Shadowrock Park and River Run Park are enjoyed by a host of people, both local and those who travel in from distant locales, just so they can enjoy one of the best vacation spots in America.

Thank goodness our park areas have a well stocked and 'most always open' convenience store located nearby! At Peggy's Park Place Market, hungry folks can find just about anything their hearts desire including; beer, liquor, wine, drinks, snacks and other assorted must have sundries. Peggy's even supports a mini deli where one can purchase a wide variety of meats and assorted sandwiches that are sure to please most anyone's appetite!

If you like to fish, Peggy's also offers a complete line of sought after tackle including fishing line, hooks, bait and weights all at competitive prices! Peggy's Park Place Market is open 7 days a week from 6AM to 10PM and can be reached by calling 417-546-5845! Also see this short piece!

Fair Board nixes Fair beer garden!

Come on down...

Taney County MO - Apparently, a member of the Taney County Fair Board (Donald Helms) went before the Board of Aldermen last Monday, March 20th to apply for a temporary permit to sell beer in a beer garden area during this year's coming Taney County Fair. The answer was a resounding no! The Forsyth Board of Aldermen, acting unanimously, cited numerous reasons for turning down the request, indicating that such a move would be 'going down the wrong path,' to put it into the words of Alderwoman Cheryl Altis. Mayor Eddie Coleman was also '100 percent against it' saying that he feared such a permit might serve to dissuade more people than it would attract.

Personally, I'm all in favor of the curtailing of certain 'non-desirable' elements like out of control drinking and would even be in favor of taking more drastic measures to insure the continued purity and attractiveness of the event. Perhaps in the future, the board would also consider the banning of smokers as these people might also 'send the wrong sort of signal to our youth'. (Just imagine a smoke free Fair and how much fun that would be for everyone). Also, there is the health and visual questions of having too many obese individuals strolling around as living advertisements to our youths to perhaps 'overindulge' and to 'eat in an irresponsible manner'. Perhaps they should consider banning those people too, in order that our future Fairs take on a more modernistic and even Aryan appearance...

Now for me personally, I don't plan to attend this year, as I really dislike the Shoals Bend location for many and sundry reasons. But, that's just me! [For the record, the author regularity swills beers, used to smoke heavily and is as fat as a tick].