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Hartzler Says High Speed Fiber Internet Is Coming To The Lake Area Very Soon

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Some parts of the Lake Area don’t have hi-speed internet, and that’s making it hard on students learning from home.

One Missouri Representative in the U-S House is taking action.

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Republican Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler.

She tells KRMS News 11-hundred homes in Camden, Miller, Maries, Phelps and Pulaski counties will soon have a fiber network thanks to 14-million dollars from USDA Reconnect Program.

Hartzler also says a 9-thousand dollar grant from the CARES Act helped the Camden County Library get better internet service.

 

 

Southwest Camden County Fire District’s New Station Is Now Open

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The fourth fire station in the Southwest Camden County Fire Protection District is now in use.

And it’s expected to reduce response times.

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Fire Chief Mike Hufferd tells KY3 TV the new station won’t be fully operational until May of 2021.

The new station houses 11 volunteer firefighters who cover 152 square miles.

The price tag was $250-thousand dollars.

Bagnell Dam Upgrades Completed – Dam Nears 90th Birthday

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An engineering landmark in Lake of the Ozarks now has upgrades that’ll help take it well beyond its 90th birthday in 2021.

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Speaking with Kevin Burns on the Morning Magazine, Ameren’s Warren Witt says a big part of the upgrades dealt with concrete.

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Witt says the recent stabilization project for Bagnell Dam took about a year and a half and cost around $50 million dollars.

Lake Residents Voice Concern Over Gas Company’s Lack Of Response

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Concerns are growing over a Lake area business that supplies propane fuel, as winter approaches.

Residents in Warsaw tell the Benton County Enterprise that they’ve had issues with billing and unanswered phone calls by Pinnacle Propane over the past few months.

They say the office in Warsaw has no room left on their voicemail box, the office in Cole Camp remains closed and the office in Windsor didn’t renew their business license.

On the Lake Area Happenings Facebook Group, residents in Camdenton and Macks Creek voiced similar issues, saying Pinnacle has been difficult to get a hold of and some of their shipments were coming late.

Walgreens/CVS To Work With Government To Release COVID Vaccine When Ready

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Walgreens and CVS are working with the Federal Government in an effort to supply the coronavirus vaccine, once one is approved, directly to long-term care facilities like nursing homes.

According to a release, Deputy Chief of staff for the Health and Human Services Department Paul Mango called the two major drug chains “The best place to send the mobile units” in order to vaccinate seniors and other vulnerable people.

The vaccinations are a voluntary program for every nursing home and it will be left up to the drugstore chains to determine the best way to deliver and store these vaccines, as well as how to collect fees in order to keep the vaccines free of charge.

Charter Spectrum Launches Program To Help Schools Stay Connected For Virtual Learning

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Charter Spectrum is stepping up to help school districts as the battle over COVID 19 continues.

Officials say their Stay Connected K-12 allows students and teachers to have no internet speed issues while schools are in their virtual learning time.

And getting on it is easy.

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Wes Shirley with Charter Spectrum.

He tells KRMS News not only does this program offer faster speeds at no extra cost, it also offers connectivity devices.

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Shirley says the program has download speeds up to 50 megabits per second to allow for video collaboration and larger file transfers.

 

CHARTER INTRODUCES STAY CONNECTED K-12, MAKING IT EASIER FOR STUDENTS AND TEACHERS TO PARTICIPATE IN ONLINE LEARNING

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Oct. 1, 2020 –With many school districts opting for full or hybrid distance learning this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Charter Communications, Inc., today announced Stay Connected K-12, a new Spectrum Enterprise solution that enables schools to offer high-speed, cable broadband Internet access direct to their students, educators and staff in their own homes so learning and teaching are uninterrupted. Residences are not billed for the service.

Stay Connected K-12 combines the robust speeds and rich features of Spectrum Internet with simplified program management and billing for local districts through Spectrum Enterprise and is a turnkey solution for their students and educators. Users can enjoy:

  • Download speeds up to 50 Mbps to support video collaboration and large file transfers.
  • In-home WiFi to connect all of the WiFi enabled devices in the residence.
  • Unlimited usage with no data caps, providing schools/districts with a consistent cost per user.
  • 24/7/365 technical support, relieving schools/districts of the responsibility of technical support for the end-user connections.
  • Self-installation kit with modem and router that allows end-users to get connected quickly and easily, with no intervention required from schools/districts.

Stay Connected K-12 also maximizes flexibility for districts, allowing them to add students to the program when needed, with no minimum term commitment on any of the connections.

“Through Stay Connected K-12, the Spectrum Enterprise team is providing the high quality connectivity students, teachers and staff need to have a successful educational experience,” said Bill Archer, Charter Executive Vice President and President of Spectrum Enterprise. “The turnkey solution is easy for school administrators to put into place, freeing them to maximize their focus on learning and student achievement.”

Charter is already connecting thousands of students and educators through Stay Connected K-12 agreements in 30 communities in Alabama, California, Georgia, Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Texas and Wisconsin.

Stay Connected K-12 builds on the company’s dedication to expanding broadband access during the COVID-19 pandemic, which through the second quarter of 2020 included connecting 448,000 students, teachers, and their families to broadband service for 60 days at no cost; protecting from disconnection 700,000 customers who indicated economic hardship due to COVID-19; and forgiving $85 million in customers’ overdue balances.

Charter’s advanced communications network serves more than 30 million customers — including government offices, first responders, health care facilities and businesses — across 41 states. During the pandemic, Charter’s network has proved able to accommodate the surge in daytime demand associated with distance learning and remote work and has extensive business and workforce continuity plans in place that adjust as needed to best serve all our customers and employees.

 

About Charter

Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR) is a leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator serving more than 30 million customers in 41 states through its Spectrum brand. Over an advanced communications network, the company offers a full range of state-of-the-art residential and business services including Spectrum Internet®, TV, Mobile and Voice.

For small and medium-sized companies, Spectrum Business® delivers the same suite of broadband products and services coupled with special features and applications to enhance productivity, while for larger businesses and government entities, Spectrum Enterprise provides highly customized, fiber-based solutions. Spectrum Reach® delivers tailored advertising and production for the modern media landscape. The company also distributes award-winning news coverage, sports and high-quality original programming to its customers through Spectrum Networks and Spectrum Originals. More information about Charter can be found at corporate.charter.com.

Ballparks National Celebrates Grand Opening Weekend

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It’s Grand Opening Weekend for the long-awaited Ballparks National.

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Speaking with Kevin Burns on the Morning Magazine, General Manager Jeff Vernetti says their ballparks differ from other parks across the nation, in that they spread out tournaments to give players a day and ½ off to enjoy the lake.

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Vernetti says they offer a full concierge’s service and will work with teams nationwide to setup tours, boat rides and fun days at area entertainment venues.

The complex is comprised of five fields that are turf, meaning there’s hardly any rain delays outside of severe weather.

Seating is located behind home plate as well as the baselines, and there is a club house with full restaurant-style and ballpark-style concessions, along with a bar.

On Sunday Vernetti says it will be more like a fall festival.

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Learn more here: BALLPARKS NATIONAL

Listen to Kevin Burn’s full interview with Jeff Vernetti here:

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Lake Regional Celebrates Emergency Team Week

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Lake Regional Hospital is celebrating Emergency Team week, as Christian Blood reports.

Each year, Lake Regional Hospital recognizes numerous professionals in its Emergency Department, including nurses, patient care techs, health unit coordinators and physicians.

Emergency Team Week continues through Saturday.

Emergency personnel give 24-hour support and treat more than 33-thousand patients each year.

Lake Regional Hospital is a Level II Stroke Center, a Level II Heart Attack Center and a Level III Trauma Center.

No other hospital between Springfield and Columbia fits all three of those categories.

 

Lake Regional Celebrates Emergency Team Week

 

OSAGE BEACH, Mo. — Lake Regional Health System recognizes Emergency Department employees during Emergency Team Week, Oct. 11-17.

 

This week celebrates the dedication and expertise of Lake Regional’s Emergency Department nurses, patient care technicians, health unit coordinators, mid-level providers and physicians. Lake Regional holds the observance annually to coincide with National Emergency Nurses Week.

 

“We have such a dedicated group within our Emergency Department, and I could not be more proud of the work they do,” said Amy Funderburk, R.N., Lake Regional Emergency Department director. “The members of our Emergency Department staff are incredibly strong, and we come together every day dedicated to saving and improving lives.”

 

Lake Regional Health System’s Emergency Department provides 24-hour emergency medical service and treats more than 33,000 patients annually. The nursing staff maintains certifications in basic life support, advanced cardiac life support and pediatric life support, as well as specialized training in stroke and heart attack care, pediatrics, and trauma. The hospital is a Level II Stroke Center, Level II STEMI (heart attack) Center and Level III Trauma Center. No other hospital between Columbia and Springfield is a state-designated center for all three of these time-critical diagnoses. Visit lakeregional.com to learn more.

 

Photo Caption: The theme of Emergency Team Week at Lake Regional is “strong.” This year has been extraordinarily challenging for health care workers, but the team members at Lake Regional Emergency Department have continuously adapted to provide exceptional care to patients.

 

 

Waynesville Oktoberfest Remains A Go For This Weekend

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After numerous cancellations of events across Pulaski County due to COVID 19, one event remains on the books for this weekend.

Officials in Waynesville say the 10th annual Oktoberfest will go on this Saturday.

The event features games, prizes, food, craft vendors and a kid’s fun zone.

There’s also a Corn Hole Tournament that will cost $50 per two-person teams with a grand prize of $250 for first place.

It all takes place on the square from 11AM to 1PM.

What a crazy year 2020 has been so far! We have missed seeing all our vendors and are ready to have some fun again. So…

Posted by Route 66 Fest on Wednesday, September 2, 2020

City Of Eldon Closes Main Offices After Employee Tests Positive For COVID

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The City of Eldon is shutting down due to COVID 19.

In a post on social media, officials say city hall will be closed to the public until at least October 23rd.

Miller County Health Officials confirmed a city worker did test positive for the Virus.

City officials say they will continue some services online, as city employees work remotely during the quarantine.

If you have any questions City Hall will still be staffed. Please call at 392-2291.

Posted by City of Eldon Missouri on Wednesday, October 14, 2020

City Of Lake Ozark Looking To Revamp Website

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The City of Lake Ozark wants a new website, as Christian Blood reports.

The idea is to make things easier for residents and tourists.

The city re-worked the website about a year ago, but it’s still looking for better access to information and a platform that can be easily accessed and managed by city employees.

Harrison Fry says in a statement Lake Ozark will be taking proposals for the new design through 5 pm November 6th.

But Fry says they don’t have to jump on any of them.

He says most important is having a workable fit between the city and the designer.

Website RFP to media

Missouri’s Unemployment Rate Is Now at 4.9%, Down 2.1% From August

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The Missouri Jobs report is out for the month of September and job growth is gaining momentum.

The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate is now at 4.9%, down 2.1% from August, which is significantly lower than the national average of 7.9%.

Officials say the state added 13,000 new jobs and the estimated number of unemployed Missourians is now over 146,000, down more than 68,000 compared to August.

While new jobs continue to be added, the 4.9% is still 1.9% higher than 2019’s numbers for this time period.

 

The Missouri labor market’s recovery resumed in September 2020. Employment, seasonally adjusted, increased by 13,000 jobs over the month, and over-the year job losses from COVID-19 shutdowns dropped below 125,000. Missouri’s smoothed seasonally adjusted unemployment rate went down by 2.1 percentage points in September 2020, decreasing to 4.9 percent from an August 2020 rate of 7.0 percent.

Missouri’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate has now been either below or equal to the national rate for 67 consecutive months. The national unemployment rate was 7.9 percent in September 2020.

The estimated number of unemployed Missourians was 146,051 in September 2020, down by 68,345 from August’s 214,396. The over-the-month drop is due in part to the unemployed workers exhausting their Unemployment Insurance benefits and leaving the labor market. The change contributed to the 2.3 percent decline in Missouri’s total civilian labor force over the month.

Due to lingering layoffs from COVID-19 shutdowns, the September 2020 rate was still nearly 50 percent higher than the September 2019 rate. The rate had reached a record low of 3.0 percent starting in August 2018, before edging up a tenth of a point in November 2018 and again in December 2018. The rate had remained at 3.2 percent through April 2019 before decreasing by a tenth of a point in May 2019. It then began a slow increase, reaching 3.4 percent in October 2019, where it remained for the remainder of 2019. The rate was steady at 3.5 percent in January and February 2020 before the COVID-19 spike began in March 2020. The rate peaked at 10.2 percent in April 2020 before decreasing slightly in May 2020, then moving strongly lower in June and July of 2020 as COVID-19 restrictions were eased. The rate was unchanged in August 2020 , and unemployment again decreased sharply in September 2020.

The state’s not-seasonally-adjusted rate was 4.3 percent in September 2020, down by 2.8 percentage points from the August 2020 not-seasonally-adjusted rate of 7.1 percent. The corresponding not-seasonally-adjusted national rate for September 2020 was 7.7 percent.

A year ago, the state’s seasonally adjusted rate was 3.3 percent, and the not-adjusted rate was 2.7 percent.

Missouri’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment was 2,784,500 in September 2020, up by 13,000 from the revised August figure. In addition, the August 2020 total was revised upward by 2,000 from the preliminary estimate, producing a revised increase of 7,700 jobs from July 2020 to August 2020 and a revised decrease of 135,600 jobs from August 2019 to August 2020.

Private-sector employment gains occurred in seven major industry groups over the month, with the largest increases in government (+4,600 jobs), trade, transportation & utilities (+2,500 jobs), construction (+2,100 jobs) and leisure & hospitality (+1,500 jobs).  The only major groups not sharing in the gains were professional & business services (-1,000 jobs) and educational & health services, which had a small loss of 300 jobs over the month.

Total payroll employment decreased by 121,900 jobs from September 2019 to September 2020. As in August, over-the-year job losses were widespread among the major sectors of the labor market, with only construction, “other services” and government spared. Goods-producing industries lost 4,100 jobs over the year, and service-providing industries lost 117,800 jobs. Manufacturing employment was down by 8,700 (-3.1 percent), while construction, aided by less severe COVID-19 restrictions for outdoor work, showed an increase of 4,900 jobs (+3.9 percent). Among service-providing industries, leisure & hospitality lost 50,900 jobs over the year, a decrease of 16.5 percent. Educational & health services lost 23,000 jobs (-4.7 percent), while employment in trade, transportation & utilities was down by 20,700 (-3.8 percent). Professional & business services lost 17,600 jobs (-4.6 percent) and the information sector lost 4,800 jobs (-10.1 percent). Government employment was up by 3,100 jobs (+0.7 percent) over the year.

See the full Jobs Report here.

GOOD NEWS: Missouri’s unemployment rate has dropped from 10.2% in April down to 4.9% in September!We will continue to do everything we can to rebuild our economy and help Missouri families, businesses, and communities recover from this crisis.

Posted by Governor Mike Parson on Wednesday, October 14, 2020

Lake Ozark BOA Approve Rezoning For Tiny Homes

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Tiny Homes are another step closer to becoming a reality in Lake Ozark.

At Tuesday night’s board of Alderman meeting, officials voted to approve the Planning and Zoning’s recommendation to rezone around 1.2 acres of land off School Road.

The next step is for the developer, LCMC Enterprises, to submit their construction plans for approval from P&Z.

After that, P&Z will host a number of public hearings to receive more input on the project before submitting their recommendations to the Board of Alderman for final approval.

LCMC Enterprises owner Matt Wright says if everything goes well, he expects to begin site preparations sometime in late December.

Bass Pro Shops To Have Massive Hiring Day On Thursday

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Heads up Fishermen, Boating enthusiasts and those who have always wanted to work with Bass Pro Shops.

The Company is hosting a 1-day major hire-a-thon this coming Thursday, with over 7,000 jobs open to candidates across the US, including Missouri.

Some of the positions include working at the boat manufacturing facilities in Lebanon and Boliver.

Other jobs are being offered at their stores in Columbia and the Headquarters in Springfield.

You can search jobs now and apply before the event here: BASS PRO THURSDAY HIRING EVENT

 

National Hiring Event: World’s Leading Outdoor Retailer – Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s – to hire 7,000 seasonal jobs in advance of holiday season

SPRINGFIELD, Missouri – Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s is gearing up for the holiday season across America, hiring 7,000 seasonal workers at a National Hiring Day event on Thursday, Oct. 15. As North America’s premier outdoor company with a significant commitment to conservation, Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s team members have earned a reputation as the “World’s Foremost Outfitters” for their role serving millions of customers with products and experiences that help connect people to nature. Candidates who want to share their passion of the outdoors with others are strongly encouraged to apply.

Last year, Reputation.com ranked Bass Pro Shops as the third “Most Reputable Retailer in America.” Forbes also named the retailer as, “One of America’s Best Employers” and “Most Reputable Companies.” Perks and benefits include flexible hours, merchandise discounts up to 45 percent, healthcare benefits, an award-winning team culture and much more.

Seasonal retail positions are available in all of the company’s U.S. locations, including its Retail Stores, Contact Centers, Distribution Centers and White River Marine Group Manufacturing Plants nationwide.

Additionally, seasonal positions are available throughout Missouri’s Ozark Mountains where noted conservationist Johnny Morris first founded Bass Pro Shops in 1972, including world-class conservation attractions and resort destinations. These include Big Cedar Lodge, Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, and Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium, which was recently voted as “America’s Best Aquarium” by readers of USA Today.

Interested candidates can apply in advance by visiting basspro.com/careers. Walk-ins also are welcome with on-site interviews taking place from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at all locations. While the majority of available positions are seasonal and part-time, qualified candidates can be considered for full-time employment. All applicants must be at least 18 years old. Bass Pro Shops is an equal opportunity employer and a drug-free workplace.

# # #

About Bass Pro Shops
Bass Pro Shops is North America’s premier outdoor and conservation company. Founded in 1972 when avid young angler Johnny Morris began selling tackle out of his father’s liquor store in Springfield, Missouri, today the company provides customers with unmatched offerings spanning premier destination retail, outdoor equipment manufacturing, world-class resort destinations and more. In 2017 Bass Pro Shops acquired Cabela’s to create a “best-of-the-best” experience with superior products, dynamic locations and outstanding customer service. Bass Pro Shops also operates White River Marine Group, offering an unsurpassed collection of industry-leading boat brands, and Big Cedar Lodge, America’s Premier Wilderness Resort. Under the visionary conservation leadership of Johnny Morris, Bass Pro Shops is a national leader in protecting habitat and introducing families to the outdoors and has been named by Forbes as “one of America’s Best Employers.”

Another Major Fishing Event Is Coming To The Lake In 2020

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Another major Fishing event is coming to the Lake Area.

Officials with FLW say the 2020 Phoenix Bass Fishing League is coming this winter for a Wild Card tournament at Public Beach # 2.

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Daniel Fennel with Major League Fishing.

He tells KRMS News the two-day event will be a battle over who catches the heaviest fish to move on to the finals in Tennessee.

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Fennel says in order to be eligible; anglers must have entered all five events within a Bass Fishing League division during the 2020 season and fished at least two of them.

The event takes place November 20th through the 21st.

 

FLW Announces Lake of the Ozarks as Venue for 2020 Phoenix Bass Fishing League Wild Card Tournament

TULSA, Okla. (Oct. 11, 2020) – FLW announced Sunday that the 2020 Phoenix Bass Fishing League presented by T-H Marine Wild Card tournament will take place on Lake of the Ozarks in Osage Beach, Missouri, Nov. 20-21. The two-day event, hosted by Fish-Intel, will launch from Public Beach No. 2 in Osage Beach.

In order to be eligible to fish the no-entry-fee Wild Card, anglers must have entered all five events within a Bass Fishing League division during the 2020 season and fished at least two of them. In addition, anglers who fish in a regular BFL regional tournament are ineligible.

Anglers will take off from Public Beach No. 2, located at 711 Public Beach Road in Osage Beach at 7 a.m. CDT each day of competition. The weigh-ins will be held each day at the launch location beginning at 3 p.m. Due to COVID-19 protocols, attendance is limited to competing anglers and essential staff only. Fans are encouraged to follow the event online through the “FLW Live” weigh-in broadcasts and coverage at FLWFishing.com.

“Fish-Intel is proud to be the host of the upcoming 2020 Wild Card event,” said Bob Bueltman, founder of Fish-Intel, LLC and Bassing Bob, LLC. “Lake of the Ozarks is an ideal location due to its central U.S. location and is a great community with plenty of restaurants and lodging. Fish-Intel and BassingBob.com are looking forward to welcoming all the anglers, their families and the FLW staff next month.”

During the Phoenix Bass Fishing League Wild Card, the full field competes both days, with winners determined by the heaviest two-day catch. The top six boaters and top six co-anglers will advance to the 2021 Phoenix Bass Fishing League presented by T-H Marine All-American, held on Lake Douglas in Dandridge, Tennessee, June 3-5, hosted by Jefferson County Department of Tourism.

An optional pot is available to anglers who elect to participate at the Wild Card tournament. Entry fees for the optional pot is $300 for boaters and $150 for co-anglers, with the top 20 percent of anglers who elect to participate in the optional pot receiving checks. There will be no official practice period or off-limits period prior to the pretournament meeting for the Wild Card. No contestant may be on tournament waters for the purpose of locating bass or potential fishing waters after the start of the pretournament meeting except during tournament hours.

Entry for the Bass Fishing League Wild Card is now open and runs through Thursday, November 19, 2020, at 5 p.m. CDT. Anglers can enter by phone at 270.252.1000.

The 2020 Phoenix Bass Fishing League presented by T-H Marine is a 24-division circuit devoted to weekend anglers, with 128 tournaments throughout the season, five qualifying events in each division. The top 45 boaters and co-anglers from each division, along with the five winners of the qualifying events, will advance to one of six regional tournaments where they are competing to finish in the top six, which then qualifies them for one of the longest-running championships in all of competitive bass fishing – the Phoenix Bass Fishing League All-American.

About FLW
FLW is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, providing anglers of all skill levels the opportunity to compete for millions in prize money across five tournament circuits. Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, FLW and its partners conduct more than 290 bass-fishing tournaments annually around the world, including the United States, Canada, China, Italy, South Korea, Mexico, Namibia, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, and Zimbabwe.

FLW tournament fishing can be seen on the Emmy-nominated “FLW” television show while Bass Fishing magazine delivers cutting-edge tips from top pros. Acquired by Major League Fishing in late 2019, FLW is expanding its programming in 2020 to the Outdoor Channel and the Sportsman Channel as well as on-demand at MyOutdoorTV (MOTV).

Lake Of The Ozarks Blue Society Resumes Concerts Tuesday Night

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They’re going to be singing the blues tonight in Camdenton at The Fish Out of Water.

The Smokin’ Guns Band takes the stage at 7.

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Todd Schram is Vice President of the Lake of the Ozarks Blues Society.

He tells KRMS News an acoustic jam will begin at 6 and then an electric jam at 8.

SBI And Key West Powerboat Championship Creator John Carbonell Dies At The Age of 83

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The Founder of the World Championship Power Boat Racing Series in Key West has died.

According to SpeedOnTheWater.com, John Carbonell passed away of natural causes at the age of 83.

Carbonell first started the racing series in 1984 after serving in the US Army.

In the late 80s, Carbonell took over the management of the American Power Boat Association, then in the 90s he created Super Boat International.

Both organizations produced championships races for the Keys.

In 2019, SBI lost the race rights to Key West after new organization Race World Offshore won the city’s 5-year-contract to manage the future races.

Lebanon Man Wins Over $33,000 In FLW Fishing Tournament

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A Lebanon man is over 33-thousand dollars richer after the Toyota Series at at Lake of the Ozarks bass tournament.

But Corey Cook’s boat stopped running as the event was getting started, and he had to use another boat.

Cook would catch 15 bass weighing just over 49 pounds over the three-day event.

Second place went to Jeremy Lawyer of Sarcoxie.

Taking third place was Shane Long of Willard.

The Toyota Series at Lake of the Ozarks was hosted by the Tri-County Lodging Association.

 

Cook Wins Toyota Series Event on Lake of the Ozarks

Lebanon Pro Wins by 2-pound, 14-ounce margin, Earns $33,619

OSAGE BEACH, Mo. (Oct. 11, 2020) – Toyota Series angler Corey Cook of Lebanon, Missouri, brought a five-bass limit to the scale Saturday weighing 11 pounds even to win the three-day Toyota Series at Lake of the Ozarks tournament in Osage Beach, Missouri. Cook’s three-day total of 15 bass weighing 49-13 earned him the win by a 2-pound, 14 ounce margin over second-place pro Jeremy Lawyer of Sarcoxie, Missouri, and earned Cook the top payout of $33,619 in the second tournament of the 2020 Toyota Series Plains Division.

“This is crazy,” said Cook, who earned his first career FLW victory. “Last year we won that boat, and that was the biggest thing. And I’ll never forget that, because it was with my dad. It’s super special. But to get this, man, this is super awesome. It’s what I always dreamed of.”

However, Cook said that dream was nearly a nightmare to start the day.

The moment they announced his name at takeoff, Cook’s motor stopped working as he went to pull away from the dock. Fortunately, he was able to swap into another boat, but his luck really never turned around much, from only catching three keepers by midday, to a lost big fish, to even making a few-mile run to hit one dock, only to have two guys stomp across it while he was fishing it.

Basically, Cook said, if it could go wrong for him, it did. Fortunately, he had a goal and stuck to it.

“There was definitely a moment or two this morning where I thought, ‘man, it’s just not my day,’” said Cook. “But I tried to keep my mind positive. I knew I just needed five good keeper bites because it’s usually tougher on Saturday.”

Cook ended the day catching seven and landed six keepers, which was more than enough.

Cook said he spent most of the year sinking brush piles around docks for this event in the Grand Glaize area and marking them, though only by memory. Some spots were in out-of-the-way places, according to Cook, but only one in five was any good, with less than 20 producing fish for him this event. Cook also said he only used two rods with a small tackle box full of homemade green pumpkin football jigs with matching Zoom Super Speed Craw trailers.

“That’s just what we do,” said Cook, who counted on his memory and simple tackle options when he quickly switched boats Saturday morning. “It keeps it simple. You’re not switching back and forth between a hundred things throughout the day. We have two colors: green and brown, but brown wasn’t as good this week; however, if you put it in front of the right fish, he’s going to bite it.”

Cook said he found just enough “right ones” today to hold on to his first big tournament victory and to seal the win.

“Words can’t describe how this feels,” said Cook.

The top 10 pros on the Lake of the Ozarks finished:

1st:       Corey Cook of Lebanon, Mo., 15 bass, 49-13, $33,619

2nd:      Jeremy Lawyer of Sarcoxie, Mo., 15 bass, 46-15, $13,028

3rd:       Shane Long of Willard, Mo., 15 bass, 45-12, $10,086

4th:       Andy Newcomb of Camdenton, Mo., 15 bass, 44-13, $9,405

5th:       Roger Fitzpatrick of Eldon, Mo., 15 bass, 44-10, $7,621

6th:       Lawson Hibdon of Versailles, Mo., 15 bass, 40-11, $6,724

7th:       Brent Chapman of Lenexa, Kan., 15 bass, 39-10, $5,883

8th:       Brian Wilson of Somerset, Ky., 11 bass, 29-10, $5,043

9th:      Joe Wieberg of Freeburg, Mo., 11 bass, 28-13, $4,202

10th:     Takayuki Koike of Ohtsu, Japan, 10 bass, 26-12, $3,362

A complete list of results can be found at FLWFishing.com.

Newcomb took home an extra $1,000 as the highest finishing FLW PHOENIX BONUS member. Boaters are eligible to win up to an extra $35,000 per event in each Toyota Series tournament if all requirements are met. More information on the FLW PHOENIX BONUS contingency program can be found at PhoenixBassBoats.com.

Matt Krekovich of Granite City, Illinois won the Co-angler Division Saturday with a three-day total of 12 bass weighing 27 pounds, 12 ounces. Krekovich took home the top prize package of a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard motor.

The top 10 co-anglers on the Lake of the Ozarks finished:

1st:       Matt Krekovich of Granite City, Ill., 12 bass, 27-12, Phoenix 518 Pro boat w/115-hp outboard

2nd:      Adam Caldwell of Springfield, Mo., 10 bass, 24-9, $4,278

3rd:       Mike Youngblood of St. Louis, Mo., nine bass, 20-10, $3,422

4th:       Shannon McClelland of Springdale, Ark., 10 bass, 18-4, $2,995

5th:       Tyrone Phillips of Little Rock, Ark., 10 bass, 18-4, $2,767

6th:       Robert Shockley of Springfield, Mo., seven bass, 17-0, $2,139

7th:       Robert Bogard, Jr. of Conway, Ark., seven bass, 16-12, $1,711

8th:       Mark Shelton of Fayetteville, Ark., seven bass, 15-5, $1,997

9th:       Matthew Cesar of Crane, Mo., seven bass, 15-4, $1,283

10th:     Jeff Moss of Oronogo, Mo., eight bass, 15-4, $1,069

The Toyota Series at the Lake of the Ozarks was hosted by the Tri-County Lodging Association. It was the second of three regular-season tournaments in 2020 for Plains Division anglers. The next event for Toyota Series anglers will take place on Oct. 15-17 – the Toyota Series at Sam Rayburn Reservoir in Brookeland, Texas. For a complete schedule, visit FLWFishing.com.

The 2020 Toyota Series consists of eight divisions – Central, Eastern, Northern, Plains, Southeastern, Southern, Southwestern and Western – each holding three regular-season events, along with the International division. Anglers who fish all three qualifiers in any of the eight divisions and finish in the top 25 will qualify for the no-entry-fee Toyota Series Championship for a shot at winning $235,000 cash, including a $35,000 FLW PHOENIX Bonus for qualified anglers. The winning co-angler at the championship earns a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard. The 2020 Toyota Series Championship will be held Dec. 3-5 on Lake Cumberland in Burnside, Kentucky, and is hosted by the Somerset Tourist & Convention Commission and the Burnside Tourism Commission.

For complete details and updated information visit FLWFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the Toyota Series on FLW’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

About FLW
FLW is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, providing anglers of all skill levels the opportunity to compete for millions in prize money across five tournament circuits. Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, FLW and its partners conduct more than 290 bass-fishing tournaments annually around the world, including the United States, Canada, China, Italy, South Korea, Mexico, Namibia, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, and Zimbabwe.

FLW tournament fishing can be seen on the Emmy-nominated “FLW” television show while Bass Fishing magazine delivers cutting-edge tips from top pros. Acquired by Major League Fishing in late 2019, FLW is expanding its programming in 2020 to the Outdoor Channel and the Sportsman Channel as well as on-demand at MyOutdoorTV (MOTV).

Gas Prices Remain Low Nationwide – Lower In The Ozarks

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Gas prices nationwide are now under $2.25 per gallon.

The only exception is California, where gas remains over $3 a gallon.

According to http://GasBuddy.com, gas prices in the Lake area are even lower, with regular averaging around $1.56 to $1.89 per gallon.

The lowest price is $1.67 per gallon in the city of Camdenton.

The highest price is $1.94 per gallon in the city of Cole Camp.

US Bank Plans To Close Versailles Branch / Laurie ATM

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Officials with US Bank say they’re planning to close their branch located in Versailles.

They say it’s due to changes in customer habits towards using online banking and ATM only transactions

The branch will remain open until January 2nd of 2021.

An ATM that’s located in the city of Laurie will also be closing by the end of November 2020.

MO Lottery Says Players Won Close To $81 Million Dollars In September

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The Missouri Lottery says players won close to $81 million dollars in total prizes in September.

More than $5.6 million dollars won were prizes of $1-thousand dollars or more.

 

More Than $80.9 Million In Prizes Won In September

During the month of September, Missouri Lottery players won more than $80.9 million* in total prizes. Of all prizes claimed in September, more than $5.6 million were prizes of $1,000 or more.

In the Lake area, these individuals all won $1000 or more.

Daniel Ossendorf, Osage Beach

Tammy Scheiter, Osage Beach

Jaquie Burle, Lake Ozark

John Harodecki, Lake Ozark

Lonnie Kingery, Lake Ozark

Paula Murry, Camdenton

Julie Hibdon, Sunrise Beach

Richard Hoffecker, Gravois Mills

Frances Ney, Gravois Mills

Kayla Bland, Versailles

Rance Clifton, Cole Camp

Sharon Stelling, Cole Camp

Kimsue Rhodes, Warsaw

Pauline Bodkin, Iberia

 

See the full list below:

http://www.molottery.com/media/news_release.jsp?articleId=14598

 

*This amount includes claimed winning Scratchers tickets and winning Draw Games tickets sold, which could include unclaimed Draw Games tickets as of the time of publication.

  

About the Missouri Lottery (MOLottery.com)
When you play the Missouri Lottery, you Play It Forward! Lottery proceeds make up approximately 4% of the state’s funding for public education. In FY20, the Lottery generated $333 million for vital education programs, including A+ scholarships.

Since sales started in 1986, the Missouri Lottery has generated more than $6.5 billion for the state and public education, Lottery players have won more than $15 billion in prizes, and retailers have earned more than $1.35 billion in commissions.

Follow the Missouri Lottery on Facebook (www.facebook.com/MOLottery), Twitter (www.twitter.com/MissouriLottery) and YouTube (www.youtube.com/MissouriLotteryOfficial).

Revenue Collections Up 3% For September / Governor Releases Withheld Funds For Schools

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Revenue collection in the state of Missouri in September 2020 is up 3-percent over September 2019.

That means previously restricted funding for education is being released.

      NEWS-10-11-2020 MISSOURI BUDGET 3 - 12th October 2020

Missouri Governor Mike Parson also says the rest of the CARES Act funds will go elsewhere.

      NEWS-10-11-2020 MISSOURI BUDGET 4 - 12th October 2020

Missouri’s unemployment rate for September was 7-percent, which is less than half of what was projected earlier this year as the COVID-19 pandemic was escalating.

 

Governor Parson Announces Over $133 Million in CARES Act and General Revenue Funds

Nearly $100 Million to Support K-12 and Higher Education

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, Governor Mike Parson announced over $133 million in funding to support critical services in several areas, including nearly $95 million in CARES Act funding and $40 million in general revenue. Nearly $100 million of these funds will support K-12 and higher education. 

“When we evaluated the impact of COVID-19 on Missouri’s economy and state revenues back in June, we had to make some difficult decisions to keep our budget balanced,” Governor Parson said. “However, we promised to reevaluate our spending after the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2021, and that is what we have done.” 

Due to the financial impact of COVID-19, the state restricted approximately $436 million in spending earlier this year to ensure a balanced budget and the necessary funds to combat the virus moving forward. At the time these budget decisions were made, Missouri’s unemployment rate was projected to be at roughly 16.3 percent. 

Currently, Missouri’s actual unemployment rate is at 7 percent – less than half of what was originally projected and lower than the national unemployment rate of 8.4 percent. Additionally, the state’s monthly General Revenue Report released this week showed that net general revenue collections for September 2020 increased 3 percent compared to September 2019, increasing from $917.3 million last year to $944.5 million this year.

“As a result of our Show Me Strong Recovery Plan, we are outpacing our projected budget forecast, and we are now in a position to release some of the funding that was restricted earlier this year,” Governor Parson said. “We are excited to be able to announce these funds today and will continue to evaluate our budget and spending as we move forward.”

Of the $100 million in CARES Act funding, $61.5 million will go to K-12 education, which will be distributed to school districts through the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education on a per-pupil basis. 

“Schools continue to face unprecedented challenges this school year,” Commissioner of Education Margie Vandeven said. “The added expenses of operating schools during the pandemic is just one of those challenges, so we appreciate Governor Parson providing this relief to schools as they work tirelessly to serve Missouri students and provide each of them the high-quality education they deserve.” 

The remainder of the CARES Act dollars will help support private colleges and universities, assisted living and residential care facilities, child care providers, and independent living centers. The funds will also help citizens suffering from substance use disorders access additional recovery services. 

In addition to $10 million in CARES Act funds for private colleges and universities, $26 million in general revenue will also go to higher education, including public community colleges and four-year higher education institutions. 

“We appreciate Governor Parson‘s decision to release these funds and the commitment to higher education institutions and students that his decision reflects,” Commissioner of Higher Education Zora Mulligan said. 

“We appreciate the support from Governor Parson for the University of Missouri System. We can’t think of a more important endeavor than the education of new leaders and supporting important precision health breakthroughs,” University of Missouri President Mun Choi said. “The release of these funds will ensure that we continue to meet our mission for student success, research and engagement programs that benefit Missouri.”

“The Presidents of the Council on Public Higher Education are very appreciative of the crucial leadership and support of Governor Parson as we continue to work together to serve our students and the state during these extraordinary times,” said Paul Wagner, Executive Director of the Council on Public Higher Education. 

The remainder of the general revenue funds will help build on Missouri’s infrastructure and serve military communities, help senior citizens and developmentally disabled citizens access critical services, help those experiencing barriers to entering the workforce, and help fight violent crime through the Attorney General’s Safer Streets Initiative. 

The funds will also help ensure that individuals receiving government assistance actually qualify for that assistance, ensuring better accountability for taxpayer dollars. 

To view a full breakdown of the CARES Act and general revenue funds, click here.

Lake Ozark BOA To Vote On Tiny Homes Rezoning Tuesday

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Plans for a Tiny Homes Project in the city of Lake Ozark are now one step closer to reality.

The Planning and Zoning commission is giving the green light to re-zone a section of land along school road, where the project would be constructed.

It’s now in the hands of the Board of Alderman to vote on the rezoning, which is expected to take place this coming Tuesday.

If the project meets all future approvals, it would be the first affordable housing project for the City of Lake Ozark.

P&Z hearing tiny homes

Missouri Special Olympics To Still Benefit From Canceled Can-Am Games

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The 2020 Lake of the Ozarks Can-Am Police and Fire Games may have been canceled due to COVID 19, but officials say Missouri Special Olympics will still benefit from the event.

Officials say several area businesses who planned to be a part of the event scheduled for June, have elected to donate to the Special Olympics program.

They say along with the money being donated; some businesses are also donating equipment to be used.

 

***Press Release***

Lake of the Ozarks, MO – Special Olympics Missouri will still benefit from the 2020 Lake of the Ozarks Can-Am Police-Fire Games, despite the event’s cancellation due to COVID-19.

Planning an event of this size and scope takes time and actually began several years ago. The Olympic styled event was scheduled to take place June 15th-21st.

After completing the process of the cancellations, the  Local Panning Board is pleased to announce, through the generosity of our business community, Special Olympics Missouri will receive a donation comprised of a monetary contribution along with additional equipment that can be used for their year-around games.

The committee would like to recognize those sponsors who had already committed to the 2020 Games prior to the cancellation:  City of Osage Beach, Ameren Missouri, Central Bank Lake of the Ozarks, Tri-County Lodging Association, Osage Beach Fire Protection District, Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake of the Ozarks, Osage Beach Police Department, City of Camdenton, Instant Signs and Banners, Lindyspring Water Systems, Facelift Design and Print, Dierbergs, Big Surf, Wal Mart Osage Beach, Osage Beach Rehab & Health, Professional Management Group, HyVee, Oak Star Bank, Ozark Ready Mix, Kapilana Resort, Dam Steel & Supply, Summerset Boat Lifts, First Bank of the Lake, HWY 54 Car Wash, Lake Oasis Convenience Store and Daybreak Rotary.

Even though 2020 didn’t go as planned,  The 2018 Lake of the Ozarks Can-Am Police-Fire Games hosted competitors from 29 U.S. states and 7 other countries, many of which had never visited the Lake before.

Special Olympics Missouri was the 2018 charity partner and received a check for $10,000 at the end of the games. Despite COVID-19 the games were a win-win for Lake of the Ozarks!

Congressman Luetkemeyer Calls For An Easier PPP Loan Forgiveness Process

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Missouri Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer is urging the Treasury Department and the SBA to implement a loan forgiveness process for all PPP loans up to $150,000.

The Congressman says business owners simply “cannot afford” the burden of applying for PPP loan forgiveness, as it’s estimated to take 20-100 hours to complete and could cost anywhere from $2,000 to $4,000 dollars.

The letter was also signed by 60 other members of Congress.

 

Luetkemeyer Urges Treasury, SBA to Streamline the Loan Forgiveness Process for PPP Loans Up to $150,000

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03) led a letter signed by 60 of his colleagues urging the Treasury Department and Small Business Administration to implement a streamlined loan forgiveness process for all PPP loans up to $150,000.

“Despite the overwhelming success of the PPP program, more can and should be done to help U.S. small businesses stay afloat during these unprecedented economic times. Countless small business owners who are facing the challenges of reopening local economies, retooling their businesses, and working to protect the health of both customers and employees have indicated that further action is required to streamline the burdensome PPP forgiveness process.

“As the representatives of millions of small business owners and their employees, we write to express our strong support for a streamlined forgiveness process for all Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. Small businesses across our districts and the country simply cannot afford to face the burdensome process of applying for PPP loan forgiveness. Some estimates indicate the current forgiveness reporting requirements will cost $2,000-$4,000 for each business, requiring 20-100hrs to complete.

“In addition, financial institutions and businesses need certainty regarding forgiveness to ensure business will not have to repay PPP loans and financial institutions will not be forced to hold these loans on their balance sheets. By streamlining the forgiveness process, your agencies can ensure our small business owners and financial institutions can focus their time, energy, and resources back into their business and communities instead of allocating significant time and resources into completing complex forgiveness forms.”

PPP Forgiveness Request

Business 54 In Lake Ozark To Close For Roundabout Construction

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Residents in Lake Ozark will soon need to find an alternate route between the Dam and W.

Officials with MODOT say that construction on the new roundabout between Business 54, W and the new interchange at Highway 54 will be getting underway next week.

MODOT says they plan to close Business 54 at Willmore Lane between Mt. Carmel Baptist Church and the southern end of the dam from this coming Monday through Friday the 16th.

Drivers can use the River Road near the Dam to access the Southern End of the highway or use the current interchange for W to access the other portion of the Business Route.

 

Business 54 to Close for Roundabout Construction

 

LAKE OZARK –Traffic will be impacted next week as the construction of a new interchange and several roundabouts continues along U.S. Route 54, Business 54 and Miller County Route W.

The project contractor, working for the Missouri Department of Transportation, will begin tying in a new roundabout at the Business 54 intersection with Wilmore Lane and the interchange connector road on Monday, October 12. This work will require Business 54 to be closed to traffic between Mt. Carmel Baptist Church and the southern end of Bagnell Dam through Friday, October 16.

Drivers will be able to access Route W, Wilmore Lane, and Lakeside Office Plaza businesses from Route 54. Route 242 can be used to access the southern end of Bagnell Dam Boulevard, and River Road can be used to access Union Electric Road. Signs are in place to alert travelers of these closures.

Construction of the new Route 54 interchange at Miller County Route W and Osage Hills Road continues as well. A single westbound lane is closed to traffic and is expected to remain closed for the next two weeks in order for crews to tie in an interchange ramp and resurface the roadway.

Speed limits are reduced through the work zone for the safety of travelers and workers on the road. Motorists in the area are asked to plan for delays, slow down, avoid distractions and watch for crews in work zones.

This work is weather permitting and could be delayed. For more information and updates about this project or other transportation-related matters, please call 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636) or visit www.modot.org/Miller54Interchange. Follow the MoDOT Central Missouri District on Facebook and Twitter for project updates.

Missouri State Parks Introduces New Interactive Map System

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Missouri Residents will soon have a new way to seeing information about state parks and historical sites.

The state DNR has launched a new map, which provides information on closures and impacts to area parks or events.

The map also highlights any temporary closures to all park facilities, including cabins, parking lots, shower houses or restrooms.

Officials say this map will help with future COVID 19 closures or capacity limits as well.

 

Missouri State Parks launches new online map highlighting park and site status and
temporary closures

JEFFERSON CITY, MO, OCT. 8, 2020 – The Missouri Department of Natural Resources Division of State Parks launches a new state park and historic site status map providing the public with one convenient location to easily view closures and information that may impact upcoming visits to a Missouri state park or historic site.

The map highlights temporary closures that may be experienced while visiting a park or site including closures related to trails, roads, beaches, parking lots, gates, shower houses or restrooms. Visitors are encouraged to check the map prior to leaving for the park or site in preparation of their visit by visiting https://mostateparks.com or https://modnr.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=0cc1b6513d6e407694aede7b7bdbde93 .

Capacity at state parks and historic sites is being monitored closely in order to prevent overcrowding. If nearing capacity, parking lots or gates may close temporarily.

When visiting a park or site, the public is strongly encouraged to follow social-distancing guidelines and be proactive in protecting themselves and others amid ongoing public health concerns. Come prepared with hand sanitizer and bottled water, avoid large and congested crowds, and please stay home if sick. Face coverings are encouraged and may be required by local order.

For more information on Missouri state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

St. Robert Looks To Build Neon Sign Park

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The City of St. Robert is looking to do something different when it comes to tourism.

They’re planning to build a Neon Sign Park, connecting dozens of Neon signs together, which is expected to attract visitors with the bright lighting.

So far, the Pulaski County Tourism board has collected over $12,000 dollars towards the project and have asked the city to take over its construction and completion.

City officials say they are now working with engineers on the design faze and will begin construction soon.

The Park

The Route 66 neon sign park will be within the George M. Reed Roadside Park in Saint Robert, Missouri, at the Junction of Route 66 and Missouri Ave. The park has access from both the west and east bound lanes and is currently home to beautiful oak trees, original concrete picnic areas, Marine tank and flag display, all of which will remain. The neon signage will compliment what is already there, with pathways leading to the sign locations throughout the 2 acre triangular shaped park.
Storyboards will stand at the base of the signs highlighting the history of the sign, how the sign was obtained and information about the sponsor funding the restoration. The park will have other features such as tailgate benches. The park will continue to be free admission, a beautiful place to enjoy lunch, picnic, walk, Ingress or Pokemon’.
This development brings vintage signs back to the Route, many that have not been seen for decades, offer a unique setting for Route 66 travelers to enjoy and increase visitation to Pulaski County area businesses and attractions. Just one more attraction to network with our friends along the Mother Road!
The Route 66 Neon Park was the vision of the Route 66 Association of Missouri. They were looking for a partner to take on this project and wanted it located in one of three locations within Missouri. We were fortunate to have this opportunity become a part of Pulaski County’s 33 miles of Route 66 which offers over 50 stops of historic attractions, new roadside adventures, eateries, franchise and Ma and Pa lodging.
If traveling the Route be sure to check out the Pulaski County Tourism Bureau website or stop by the Pulaski County Visitors Center, Saint Robert, MO. They offer complimentary; brochure with turn-by-turn driving directions, an audio tour and online interactive tour to make your trip to the area even more fun!

5th Annual Frisco Park Gearhead Bash In Richland Still A Go

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The city of Richland says the 5th Annual Frisco Park Gearhead Bash will take place this weekend.

The annual event featuring antique cars, trucks and motorcycles starts on Saturday from 2pm to 6pm in the downtown area.

There is no admission charge and it’s only $15 per vehicle to enter.

Prizes will be given for 1st and 2nd place winners.

 

2020 gearhead front side
 2020 gearhead back side

Camden County Businesses Have Until October 31st To Apply For Federal CARES Act Funds

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Small businesses in the Lake Area have until October 31st to apply for COVID-19 relief money through the Federal CARES Act.

The money can go toward expenses like PPE and other modifications needed during the pandemic.

You can find applications at the Camdenton, Lake Area and Lake West Chambers of Commerce websites.

 

 

Camden County extends application deadline for financial assistance to local businesses through COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant Program
Early in September, Camden County announced the launch of a small business assistance program to provide economic support to small businesses in connection with COVID-19 provided through the Federal CARES Act. Camden County has received Coronavirus Relief Funds made available, on an application basis, to eligible businesses for necessary expenditures incurred due to the public health emergency.
Camdenton, Lake Area and Lake West Chambers of Commerce are collaboratively assisting the Camden County Commission managing an Advisory Committee to review the submitted applications prior to Camden County Commission approval. As of today, several complete applications have already been reviewed and approved for COVID-19 expense reimbursements. Coronavirus Relief Funds are expected to be approved by the commission for many of the applicants.
Funds may only be used to cover costs that:
  • Expenditures related to business interruption caused by required closures by State, County or City Order related to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID–19),
  • Expenditures associated with costs to operate businesses under State, County or City guidelines such as PPE and other modifications necessary to conduct business,
  • Expenditures incurred during or to be incurred the period that begins on March 1, 2020 and ends on December 30, 2020.
  • The requirement that expenditures be incurred as a result the public health emergency means that expenditures must be associated with actions taken to respond to the COVID-19 public health emergency.
The Application Deadline has been extended to October 31st, 2020 as funds are still available.
In addition, a low interest rate loan is available through the Lake of the Ozarks Council of Local Governments Revolving Loan Fund Expenses for business expenses the Camden County grant program does not cover. The loan application is available: https://www.loclg.org/financing-options or call 573-346-5692.
Applications can be found at the Camdenton, Lake Area and Lake West Chambers of Commerce offices as well as on each chamber’s websites:

Lowe’s To Give Front Line Employees Additional Bonuses

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Officials with Lowes Home Improvement stores say they’re handing out more bonuses to their front-line employees.

Officials say on October 16th, all full-time hourly workers will get $300 while part-time and season employees will get $150.

The bonuses total around $100 million dollars.

Since the pandemic started, Lowe’s has provided more than $775 Million dollars to its employees in financial support.

lowes bonus

FLW Fishing Event To Headline This Weekend At Lake Of The Ozarks

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Another major fishing event is heading to the Lake area this weekend.

Officials with FLW say the Toyota Series Plains Division will take place in Osage Beach on Thursday through Saturday.

The Toyota Series at Lake of the Ozarks will feature the region’s best bass-fishing pros and co-anglers casting for a top prize of up to $65,000.

There’s also an additional $35,000 bonus if the winner is a qualified Phoenix Boat owner.

The event is being hosted by the Tri-County Lodging Association.

 

Toyota Series to Host Event on Lake of the Ozarks

OSAGE BEACH, Mo. (Oct. 5, 2020) – The 2020 Toyota Series Plains Division will continue with a tournament this weekend in Osage Beach, Missouri, with the Toyota Series at Lake of the Ozarks. Hosted by the Tri-County Lodging Association, the three-day tournament will feature the region’s best bass-fishing pros and co-anglers casting for a top prize of up to $65,000, plus a $35,000 bonus if the winner is a qualified Phoenix Boat owner.

“Lake of the Ozarks generally fishes pretty good,” said Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit angler Casey Scanlon of Eldon, Missouri, who is looking forward to fishing his home body of water. “There was a big bass event there last weekend with a lot of big fish weighed in, so I’m expecting it to be a really good tournament.

“It’s starting to cool off a bit and the fish have started into their fall patterns, but there are a lot of bass scattered throughout the 90-mile lake, so you can really do a little bit of everything,” Scanlon continued. “Various patterns will be in play this week and that makes it one of my favorite times of the year, because you can use a lot of different tactics and be successful.”

Scanlon said the water level is about a foot and a half low – normal for this time of year – but Lake of the Ozarks is a very stable lake, so he doesn’t believe that will have a huge impact on what the fish are doing.

“I expect to see quality fish caught from 0- to 25-feet-deep,” said Scanlon. “This is a versatile fishery and I predict the top ten will be made up of guys doing a handful of different techniques in various depths.”

Scanlon said he expects a 48 to 49-pound-bag over the three-day-tournament will put anglers in the money.

“There are a lot of docks in this lake, so I expect slower-moving-baits like a Trophy Bass Company Jig or a Tackle HD Hi Def Craw – something you can fish through the cover around these docks – will be in play this weekend,” Scanlon continued. “Look for plastic worms, topwater baits, crankbaits, spinnerbaits and jigs to play a huge role in this tournament.”

Anglers will take off daily at 7 a.m. CDT from the Public Beach No. 2 Ramp in Osage Beach, Missouri. Weigh-ins will also be held at the ramp and will begin at 3 p.m. Attendance is limited to competing anglers and essential staff only. Fans are encouraged to follow the event online through the “FLW Live” weigh-in broadcasts and daily coverage at FLWFishing.com.

In Toyota Series regular-season competition, payouts are based on the number of participants competing in the event, scaling up for every 20 boats over 160 and scaling down for every boat below 160. With a 160-boat field, pros fish for a top prize of $40,000, plus an extra $35,000 if FLW PHOENIX BONUS qualified. Co-anglers cast for the top prize of a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard (valued at $33,500). With a 260-boat field, pros fish for a top award of $65,000, plus an extra $35,000 if FLW PHOENIX BONUS qualified. Co-anglers cast for the top prize of a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard (valued at $33,500) plus $5,000 cash.

The 2020 Toyota Series consists of eight divisions – Central, Eastern, Northern, Plains, Southeastern, Southern, Southwestern and Western – each holding three regular-season events, along with the International division. Anglers who fish all three qualifiers in any of the eight divisions and finish in the top 25 will qualify for the no-entry-fee Toyota Series Championship for a shot at winning $235,000 cash, including a $35,000 FLW PHOENIX Bonus for qualified anglers. The winning co-angler at the championship earns a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard. The 2020 Toyota Series Championship will be held Dec. 3-5 on Lake Cumberland in Burnside, Kentucky, and is hosted by the Somerset Tourist & Convention Commission and the Burnside Tourism Commission.

For complete details and updated information visit FLWFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the Toyota Series on FLW’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

About FLW
FLW is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, providing anglers of all skill levels the opportunity to compete for millions in prize money across five tournament circuits. Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, FLW and its partners conduct more than 290 bass-fishing tournaments annually around the world, including the United States, Canada, China, Italy, South Korea, Mexico, Namibia, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, and Zimbabwe.

FLW tournament fishing can be seen on the Emmy-nominated “FLW” television show while Bass Fishing magazine delivers cutting-edge tips from top pros. Acquired by Major League Fishing in late 2019, FLW is expanding its programming in 2020 to the Outdoor Channel and the Sportsman Channel as well as on-demand at MyOutdoorTV (MOTV).

For more information visit FLWFishing.com and follow FLW at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

Lake Ozark Considers How To Handle Future Event Expenses

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Record numbers of people are coming to the Lake Area, and the City of Lake Ozark is becoming ground zero.

The city is concerned about the growing expense that comes with being such a popular location.

      NEWS-10-07-2020 EVENT EXPENSE 2 - 7th October 2020

Assistant City Administrator Harrison Fry tells KRMS News more help is needed from event organizers so the Lake Ozark Police Department doesn’t have to pay out so much money in normal pay and overtime for officers.

      NEWS-10-07-2020 EVENT EXPENSE 3 - 7th October 2020

Fry says the city hopes to have a plan by the end of the year to help minimize the expense of events like Bikefest and the Magic Dragon car show.

 

LO may tighten event permit process

EPA Awards 2.3 Million Dollars Towards Clean Diesel Projects In Missouri & Other States

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The Federal EPA is awarding over 2.3 Million dollars for Clean Diesel projects in Missouri, Kansas and Arkansas.

Officials say the money will go to projects that aim to reduce diesel emissions and help reduce or replace the nation’s existing fleet of old, dirty diesel motors and trucks.

In the Show Me State, the Southeastern Regional Planning Commission received $156,142 for its 3 projects in Southern Missouri, and the Leonardo Academy received $218,944 dollars towards their Propane School bus replacement project.

 

EPA to Award Over $2.23M for Clean Diesel Projects in Iowa, Kansas and Missouri
Contact Information: David W. Bryan, APR, 913-551-7433, bryan.david@epa.gov
(Lenexa, Kan., Sept. 29, 2020) – Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that nine organizations in EPA Region 7 have been selected to receive over $2.23 million from the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) National Grants Program funding. At a press conference in Minnesota on Tuesday, EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler announced over $73 million in grants and funding expected to be awarded to support the numerous clean diesel programs and projects across the country at the state and local level.
Over $50 million in DERA National Grants Program funding is expected to be awarded to implement projects aimed at reducing diesel emissions from the nation’s existing fleet of old, dirty engines and vehicles. Additionally, EPA anticipates providing approximately $23.5 million under DERA’s 2020 State Grants Program to 48 states and four territories to implement their own diesel emissions reduction programs.
“EPA is proud to support our partners as they deliver cleaner air benefits to local communities across the country,” said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler. “New diesel engines operate cleaner than older engines, and for each dollar invested in clean diesel projects, communities get $13 in cumulative health benefits.”
“We thank these organizations for stepping up to improve air quality in our communities.  Reducing  the number of older diesel engines for both on- and off-road vehicles reduces harmful emissions and helps us reach our goal of clean air across the Midwest,” said EPA Region 7 Administrator Jim Gulliford.
To support the Administrator’s clean air goals, the Agency anticipates awarding these grants once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied. So far in 2020, EPA has finalized awards for 41 clean diesel projects and programs. The Agency anticipates completing additional awards throughout the rest of the year. The following grants have been finalized as of Sept. 28 in EPA Region 7:
Recipient
Project
Award Amount
IA
National Biodiesel Foundation
Iowa DOT Utility Truck Replacement and Biodiesel Use
$123,252
IA
City of Davenport, Iowa
Dump Truck Replacement Project
$116,250
KS
American Lung Association
Short Haul and Nonroad Replacement and Locomotive Idle Reduction Project
$1,381,957
MO
Leonardo Academy Inc.
Propane School Bus Replacement Project
$218,944
MO
Southeast Missouri Regional Planning Commission
Madison and Perry Counties Municipal Vehicle Replacement Project
$64,725
MO
Southeast Missouri Regional Planning Commission
Ste. Genevieve County Municipal Vehicle Replacement Project
$47,453
MO
Southeast Missouri Regional Planning Commission
Cape Girardeau County Municipal Vehicle Replacement Project
$43,964
Under President Trump, the combined emissions of criteria pollutants and their precursors dropped 7%. In the past three years, we saw the following drops in emissions of criteria and precursor pollutants:
  • Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) ↓ 10%
  • Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM 2.5) ↓ 1%
  • Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) ↓ 16%
  • Carbon Monoxide (CO) ↓ 6%
  • Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) ↓ 3%
Over the last three years during the Trump administration, EPA have awarded about $300 million in grants and rebates to modernize the diesel fleet and speed the turnover to cleaner on- and off-road, heavy-duty trucks and equipment. Much of this assistance has been provided to help better protect areas of poor air quality and areas of highly concentrated diesel pollution, such as ports and distribution centers.
As these new grants are finalized and awarded, details on recipients, funding amounts, and project types will be listed on the DERA program webpages. For more information, please visit: www.epa.gov/dera.
Background
DERA-funded projects typically include retrofitting or replacing legacy school buses, transit buses, heavy-duty diesel trucks, marine engines, locomotives, and other heavy-duty equipment with new, cleaner technologies.

Offshore At The Ozarks Is Set To Feature Two Of The Fastest Classes Of Offshore Powerboats

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Offshore at the Ozarks is approaching and we’re learning more about the types of boats you’ll see on the water.

The race will feature 3 runs for both the Super Stock and the Super Cat classes, both of which are known for fast speeds.

      NEWS-10-01-2020 BOAT RACING CLASSES 1 - 1st October 2020

Mark Waddington of Performance Boat Center is the race organizer.

He tells KRMS News the Super Cat class will be the faster of the two, with speeds toping 140 miles an hour on the straightaways.

      NEWS-10-01-2020 BOAT RACING CLASSES 3 - 1st October 2020

Two of the three races will start on Friday around noon, with an early morning practice.

The third race takes place on Saturday afternoon; following the final weigh ins of the Big Bass Bash fishing tournament also taking place this weekend on the Lake.

State Fair To Offer Virtual Workforce Training Programs

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State Fair Community College will be offering a virtual 7-week workforce training program.

The college says they’re partnering with The Learning Force to provide it online from October 28th through December 16th.

The program helps trainees to learn how to communicate more effectively as a leader and is recommended for those who are or wish to be a supervisor or manager.

The cost of the program is near $700 and there are grants available.

 

SFCC to offer virtual 7-week peer to supervisor workforce training 

Sedalia, Missouri – Sept. 29, 2020 –State Fair Community College’s The LearningForce will offer an online 7-week Learn to Lead workforce training course from 11 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. on Wednesdays from Oct. 28 through Dec. 16. Class will not be held on Nov. 25. Space is limited, so early enrollment is recommended.

The Learn to Lead: Transitioning from Peer to Supervisor course prepares employees with the skills and knowledge needed to become successful supervisor. Trainees will learn how to communicate more effectively, be flexible yet firm; build trust and gain respect; resolve conflict; motivate co-workers; manage time and set priorities; and more. This course is also recommended for supervisors and managers with little or no formal supervisory training. The cost is $699 per person. Individuals who are eligible for the Missouri One Start Grant may use those funds to pay for the course.

For more information and to register, go to www.sfccmo.edu/thelearningforce, call (660) 530-5822 or email thelearningforce@sfccmo.edu.

The LearningForce offers a diverse schedule of noncredit continuing education courses for business and industry, professional development and personal enrichment.

Miss Geico To Be At Offshore At The Ozarks This Weekend

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The stage is set for the inaugural Offshore at the Ozarks this Friday and Saturday, and there’s going to be a special guest on hand.

      NEWS-09-29-2020 BOAT RACES 1 - 29th September 2020

Mark Waddington is the race organizer with Performance Boat Center.

He tells KRMS News since a majority of races across the country have been canceled due to COVID 19, the response to this race has been phenomenal.

      NEWS-09-29-2020 BOAT RACES 2 - 29th September 2020

Waddington says this race setup will be different from other powerboat races across the nation.

      NEWS-09-29-2020 BOAT RACES 4 - 29th September 2020

He say’s it’s an advantage to racers, because most races across the country have been canceled due to COVID 19.

The first race starts at Friday around noon, with a second race Friday afternoon and the third race on Saturday afternoon.

Fans can watch from a number of locations, including Camden on the Lake and Shady Gators, or tie off along the race course in your own boat.

Make sure to tune into News/Talk KRMS for the play by play action, as we are the official station of the Offshore at the Ozarks.

 

 

LAKE OF THE OZARKS, MO (SEPTEMBER 2020) – Performance Boat Center will host the 2020 Offshore at the Lakes Catamaran (CAT) Edition boat race in collaboration with the Offshore Powerboat Association (OPA).  The race hosted in Lake of the Ozarks will be the first of its kind for the area.  Super Stock and CAT racing teams from across the U.S., including the Miss GEICO Offshore Racing Team, will compete in two days of CAT only racing on Oct. 2-3.

A new partnership between the American Powerboat Association (APBA) and OPA drew record-breaking crowds and race teams during the 2019 season. “We had great plans and a lot of anticipation for the 2020 season,” said OPA President Ed “Smitty” Smith. “In spite of early cancellations, we’re especially excited to return to Lake of the Ozarks for this catamaran-only race. We are excited to partner with Performance Boat Center to create a safe event for racers and fans alike.”

The 47-foot Miss GEICO Victory catamaran overturned on the last turn of the final lap during the Sarasota race in July 2019. The team has since invested 13 months of intensive work to repair and restore the Miss GEICO boat.  The refurbished boat recently competed for the first time during the Crystal Coast Grand Prix in Morehead City, NC, the first race of the season.

“Because of the pandemic, races have been cancelled or postponed.  Local ordinances forced us to close our facilities for a while,” said GEICO Crew Chief Gary Stray.  “Once we were able to return to the shop, we had the opportunity to invest extra time to ensure the boat was in top performance condition for our first race. Our boat performed flawlessly in Morehead City and we are especially excited about returning to Lake of the Ozarks.”

In addition to a newly restored boat, Miss GEICO will sport a new racer in the driver’s seat. APBA Hall of Champions inductee Brit Lilly will occupy the driver’s seat for the second time. Lilly’s prior racing experience proved to be an asset during his initial participation with the team in Morehead City. 

Boat racing legend Sir Steve Curtis will control the throttles for the 11-time world championship Miss GEICO team. Curtis has more than 20 world championship titles of his own. He also has been deemed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his success in offshore racing.

Miss GEICO weighs 11,750 pounds with identical race engines sealed and governed by Mercury Racing to ensure fairness.   The 47-foot Miss GEICO Victory catamaran is made of carbon fiber, Kevlar and S-glass for high performance.  The boat sports a pair of Mercury-sealed 1,100 horsepower twin-turbo engines and can reach top speeds of more than 160 mph.

Short-course races will take place starting at 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2.  A Festival of Speed will commence at 6 p.m. Friday at Shady Gators and the Race Village. Racing action will continue on Saturday, Oct. 3 beginning at 3 p.m. with full course laps. The two-day event will be a points accumulation race to determine final placements.  Spectators can view the races from boats in designated areas and along the public areas of the race course. Safety on the race course and in surrounding areas is top priority. Please be mindful of local ordinances and maintaining safe social distances.

Roadwork This Week Affecting Traffic On HWY 7 Near Warsaw

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Roadwork this week will cause minor delays in both Benton and Laclede Counties.

Officials with MODOT say pavement sealing will begin this morning on Route 7 between Warsaw and Tightwad.

Contractors will remove 11 miles of the current road surface between Lake of the Ozarks and Route PP, before laying down the new roadway.

That project is expected to have one lane open with crews flagging traffic and should be completed by October 9th.

Another project underway includes the resurfacing of Route OO between Bennet Spring and Highway 32.

That project is expected to take a week to complete and should smooth out the roadway for travelers.

 

Pavement Sealing Work Planned for Missouri Route 7 in Benton/Henry Counties Sept. 28-Oct. 9

 

Benton/Henry Counties – Drivers should expect one lane traffic, flaggers and pilot cars where contractor crews are sealing Missouri Route 7 with a mixture of rock and oil between Warsaw and Tightwad between September 28 and October 9, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

Contractor crews will remove 11 miles of the current driving surface on Route 7 between the Osage River at Warsaw and Henry County Route PP in Tightwad, replacing it with a new surface with improved texture.

Traffic Impacts:

  • Missouri Route 7 traffic reduced to one lane where contractor crews are working
  • Drivers are urged to use caution and reduce their speed when traveling over recently-sealed sections of highways
  • No signed detours
  • Signs and message boards will alert drivers to the work zone
  • Drivers are urged to look for alternate routes

Drivers traveling Route 7 will encounter flaggers and pilot cars directing them through the work zone. Drivers should wait for the pilot vehicle before proceeding through the work zone or before entering the work zone from a side road.

Weather and/or scheduling delays will alter the work schedule.

A chip-seal is not an alternative to an asphalt overlay but is being used here as an economical way to maintain and preserve the roadway. The treatments keep a road from deteriorating and will extend its life.

City of St. Louis Health Officials Call On Bikefest Attendees To Be Tested For COVID

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Health officials in the City of St. Louis want anyone who came to Bikefest in the Lake Area to get tested for COVID-19.

The annual event brought over 120-thousand bikers from around the country to Lake of the Ozarks.

Since the Lake area does not have a mask mandate in effect, attendees were not required to wear a face covering to help limit the possible spread of COVID-19.

So far, the City of St. Louis is the only area asking attendees to get tested.

Under A Week Until Offshore At The Ozarks Hits The Water

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We are just a few days away from a brand new boating event in Lake of the Ozarks.

The inaugural event’s happening in front of Camden on the Lake resort.

      NEWS-09-27-2020 OFFSHORE OZARKS 1 - 28th September 2020

Organizer Mark Waddington with Performance Boat Center in Osage Beach says ‘Offshore At The Ozarks will feature Supercat and Super Stock-class racing boats on Friday and Saturday.

      NEWS-09-27-2020 OFFSHORE OZARKS 3 - 28th September 2020

The Miss GEICO powerboat will be there for demonstrations.

KRMS is the official radio station of the race, and we’ll be bringing you play-by-play action right here starting on Friday.

Our sister stations Classic Country 104.9, 98.7 The Cove and 935 ROCKS will also have live updates during both days.

Oscar-Meyer Wienermobile Still In Town For The Weekend

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If you haven’t seen it yet, you will soon.

The Oscar-Meyer Wienermobile is at the Lake of the Ozarks through Sunday.

Officials say it will be on display Saturday at Landshark Bar and Grill at the Margaritaville Resort.

Then it will be hanging out for most of Sunday at Bridal Cave.

If you stop by, they say you can grab a goodie bag that includes the brand’s famed “Wiener Whistles” and more.

Missouri’s Unemployment Recovery Ranked # 1 On Week To Week Basis

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Missouri’s Unemployment numbers are dropping fast.

According to a new report from Wallethub.com, Missouri is 20th overall when it comes to job recovery since the COVID 19 Pandemic started in March.

But on a week to week basis, the Show Me State is leading the pack.

      NEWS-09-26-2020 MO UNEMPLOYMENT 1 - 26th September 2020

Jill Gonzalez with Wallethub.

She tells KRMS News the change in unemployment claims compared to this time last year is nearly 100%, or almost double.

 

With COVID-19’s continued grip on the U.S., new unemployment claims increased slightly week-over-week on September 14, but were still 87% below the peak during the COVID-19 pandemic. To help add some context to these statistics, WalletHub just released updated rankings for the States Whose Weekly Unemployment Claims Are Recovering the Quickest, along with accompanying videos and audio files.

To identify which states’ workforces are experiencing the quickest recovery from COVID-19, WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across three metrics based on changes in unemployment claims. Below, you can see highlights from the report, along with a WalletHub Q&A. To see the states most recovered since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, click here.

Change in Missouri Weekly Unemployment Claims (1=Quickest Recovery, 25=Avg.):

  • 98.16% Change in Unemployment Claims (Latest Week vs Last Year)
    • 7,225 the week of September 14, 2020 vs 3,646 the week of September 16, 2019
    • 2nd quickest recovery in the U.S.
  • -3.33% Change in Unemployment Claims (Latest Week vs Start of 2020)
    • 7,225 the week of September 14, 2020 vs 7,474 the week of January 1, 2020
    • 7th quickest recovery in the U.S.
  • 957.62% Change in Unemployment Claims (Since Start of COVID-19 Crisis vs Last Year)
    • 830,460 between the week of March 16, 2020 and the week of September 14, 2020 vs 86,721 between the week of March 18, 2019 and the week of September 16, 2019
    • 20th quickest recovery in the U.S.

To view the full report, please visit:
https://wallethub.com/edu/states-unemployment-claims/72730/.

Lake Real Estate Market Remains Red Hot From Dam To Dam

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The Real Estate Market has been red hot in the east end of the Lake area, but it’s also growing rapidly on the west end.

Officials from the West Central Association of Realtors throughout Benton County say they’ve seen a 25% increase in home sales, with prices nearly $7,000 higher than 2019.

Prices for waterfront homes from Bagnell Dam to Truman Dam have also jumped by 11%, according to the Bagnell Dam Association of Realtors.

The WCAR also says so far they’ve sold nearly 300 homes for the year, all of which have averaged about 139 days on the market or less.

MODOT To Hire 400 Workers For Winter Season

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Officials with MODOT Say they’re on the hunt for more employees for the winter season.

The plan is to hire more than 400 snowplow drivers before winter starts, enough to have crews on the road and a few on standby.

      NEWS-09-24-2020 MODOT SHORTAGE 3 - 24th September 2020

MoDOT Central Engineer Bob Lynch.

He tells KY 3 TV more than 40 of those will work in the Central District, which includes the Lake of the Ozarks.

MoDOT usually does the hiring earlier in the year, but due to the pandemic they had to wait until now to begin.

 

“Come for the Snow, Stay for the Mow”

MoDOT is looking for service-oriented individuals to join our maintenance team

 The Missouri Department of Transportation is seeking individuals who are interested in a career to keep Missouri moving during the winter season and beyond.

The department is now hiring maintenance personnel for winter operations and more. Right now, there are several full-time maintenance and emergency maintenance equipment operator positions open across the state. Hourly salaries range from $14.10 to $16.72 per hour, depending on level of experience and area of operation.

“We’re looking for dedicated, hardworking individuals who want to make a difference,” said Natalie, Roark, MoDOT’s maintenance director. “These positions are critical to Missouri travelers once the snow starts to fall and throughout the year to maintain our highway system.”

Employment with MoDOT doesn’t have to end with the spring thaws, Roark said. Opportunities for year-round employment include mowing, striping and other maintenance functions to keep Missouri roads safe for all who travel on them.

Full-time maintenance employees receive full training and a long list of other benefits including retirement, paid leave, medical, vision and dental insurance; and a culturally diverse workplace that is dedicated to safety and personal development. Applicants need to be at least 18 years old. and successfully complete a criminal background check and drug screening.

To learn more about this opportunity or to apply online, go to modot.org/opportunities-maintenance.

Lake Regional Auxiliary To Donate $300,000 Towards Commitment To Caring Initiative

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A new initiative at Lake Regional Health System focusing on cancer and cardiac services is getting a six-figure donation from the hospital auxiliary.

      NEWS-09-23-2020 LR DONATION 1 - 24th September 2020

Terri Hall, Director of Funding Development at Lake Regional.

She tells KRMS News the Commitment to Caring Initiative got another 100-thousand dollar donation from a Lake Area couple earlier in September.

 

Hospital Auxiliary Pledges $300,000 to Lake Regional Health System

 

OSAGE BEACH, Mo. — Lake Regional Hospital Auxiliary understands that community support is vital to local health care. The Auxiliary’s commitment to providing that support has not changed since the group’s creation in 1977. To show their dedication to quality local health care, the Auxiliary has pledged $300,000 to Lake Regional Health System during the next five years.

 The Auxiliary donation will benefit Lake Regional’s Commitment to Caring initiative, which seeks community support for advancing health care services. The first project to be funded by the initiative will enhance services for heart and cancer care.

 “We are thankful to the Hospital Auxiliary for their support and for caring so deeply about our mission of providing exceptional health care,” said Dane W. Henry, FACHE, chief executive officer of Lake Regional Health System. “Currently, heart disease is the No. 1 killer in Missouri and cancer is No. 2. The Auxiliary’s donation to Commitment to Caring will help Lake Regional provide the best care to people affected by these diseases.”

 Lake Regional Hospital Auxiliary supports Lake Regional operations through volunteering and fundraising.

 “Serving in the Auxiliary is a way to give back to a hospital that has continually provided remarkable care to the community,” said Nancy Groves, Auxiliary president. “We are lucky to have a health system that has been recognized for so many of their programs and services, including cancer and cardiac care. We don’t have to travel far for quality care; it is in our own backyard.”

 The Hospital Auxiliary raises funds through sales at Lake Regional’s gift shop and from fundraising events, including the annual Auxiliary Ball. This year’s ball is a no-show event, and supporters can make donations at lakeregional.com/noshow2020. The event includes a drawing for a chance to win a diamond pendant sponsored by Duncan II Jewelry or a denim certificate sponsored by Blair’s Landing. In addition, the Auxiliary is sponsoring a no-show excuse contest. The most creative excuse will win barbecue for four delivered by Wobbly Boots Road House. All contests end on Oct. 1.

 Lake Regional Hospital Auxiliary has more than 350 good-hearted members of all ages. The volunteers are a diverse group that includes retirees, doctors, active professionals, high school students and other community members. To learn more about the Auxiliary, visit lakeregional.com/volunteers.

 

PHOTO CAPTION: Lake Regional Hospital Auxiliary receiving the 2018 Auxiliary of the Year award from the Missouri Association of Hospital Auxiliaries.

Lake Area Leads The Way In Lowering Missouri Unemployment

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The Show Me State is being ranked 16th out of 50 States and the District of Columbia when it comes to bouncing back from high unemployment.

Officials with WalletHub say Missouri saw a 7.1% unemployment rate in August, most of which came from new jobs in manufacturing and tourism in places like Springfield, Lake of the Ozarks and Sedalia.

The 7.1% remains one of the lowest nationwide, with only states like Idaho, South Dakota and Vermont having lower rates in the 4 to 5% range.

New York, Rhode Island and Hawaii had some of the worst unemployment rates ranging from 12 to 13%.

 

With the U.S. gaining 1.4 million jobs in August and the national unemployment rate at 8.4% compared to the nearly historic high of 14.7% at the peak of the coronavirus pandemic, WalletHub today released updated rankings for the States Whose August Unemployment Rates Are Bouncing Back Most, along with accompanying videos and audio files, to illustrate which areas of the country have had the best recovery so far.

This report examines unemployment rates on a monthly basis, complementing the weekly analysis in WalletHub’s report on the States Whose Weekly Unemployment Claims Are Recovering the Quickest.

In order to identify the states with the best recovery in unemployment, WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia based on four key metrics. We looked at the change in each state’s unemployment during the latest month for which we have data (August 2020) compared to August 2019 and January 2020. We also compared not seasonally adjusted continued claims in August 2020 to August 2019. Finally, we considered each state’s overall unemployment rate. Below, you can see highlights from the report, along with a WalletHub Q&A.

Bounced Back Most Bounced Back Least
1. Idaho 42. Pennsylvania
2. Nebraska 43. New Jersey
3. Utah 44. Illinois
4. South Dakota 45. New Mexico
5. Montana 46. California
6. Vermont 47. Massachusetts
7. Alaska 48. Rhode Island
8. Arizona 49. New York
9. Alabama 50. Nevada
10. North Dakota 51. Hawaii

To view the full report and your state’s rank, please visit: https://wallethub.com/edu/states-unemployment-rates/74907/

 

 

MO Senator Roy Blunt Receives Golden Plow Award From Farm Bureau

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Missouri Senator Roy Blunt is being honored by the Missouri Farm Bureau.

Officials handing him the Golden Plow award, the highest recognition given to a sitting member of congress.

In a statement, Blunt called the award a “high honor” saying he will “Continue to advocate for programs that benefit Missouri Farmers and Ranchers.”

Some of those include pushing for more rural broadband internet access, improvements to area infrastructure and removing burdensome regulations that prohibit farmers from succeeding at their jobs.

Blunt is one of many who voted in favor of the Farm Bill, which recently passed and was signed into law by President Donald Trump.

 

WASHINGTON – Yesterday, the American Farm Bureau Federation and Missouri Farm Bureau honored U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (Mo.) with the Golden Plow award, the highest recognition given to a sitting Member of Congress.

“As the son of dairy farmers, having the opportunity to advocate for programs and policies that benefit Missouri’s farmers and ranchers is one of the things I’ve been most proud of,” said Blunt. “With world food demand expected to double in the next 30 to 40 years, there are a lot of challenges and opportunities ahead for the ag industry. No country in the world is better positioned – geographically, technologically, or academically – to meet that demand than we are. To do so, we need to continue working to expand rural broadband, improve our infrastructure, and prevent burdensome regulations that impose huge costs with little to no benefit. I’m grateful to have the Farm Bureau’s advice on all of these issues and look forward to continuing our partnership as we work together to strengthen the ag industry and support America’s farm families.”

The American Farm Bureau’s press release is available HERE.

As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Blunt has consistently worked to ensure Missouri priorities are reflected in the annual government funding process. The most recent government funding bill continued investments in a rural broadband expansion, agricultural  research, and rural development.

The digital divide has left about one-third of rural Missourians without access to broadband. Blunt worked to expand access to broadband through the creation of the ReConnect Pilot Program in the FY2018 government funding bill, and supported additional funding for the program in the FY2019 and FY2020 funding bills. Over the past two years, Missouri has received more than $100 million in funding through the ReConnect Program.

In August 2018, Blunt announced that Missouri also received nearly $255 million through the Federal Communication Commission’s Connect America Fund Phase II (CAF-II) auction, about 17 percent of the total amount awarded nationwide, the most of any state.

Blunt voted in favor of the 2018 Farm Bill, which made essential investments in rural America to expand access to high-speed broadband and improve infrastructure.

Blunt has fought to protect Missouri farmers and producers from excessive regulations, like the Obama administration’s Waters of the U.S. rule, which would have given the EPA and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers jurisdiction over 99.7 percent of Missouri, and the so-called Clean Power Plan that would have imposed billions in costs on the economy.

Backwater Jack’s Amphitheater One Step Away From Becoming Reality

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A proposed 2,000 seat Amphitheater at Backwater Jacks in Osage Beach is one step closer to becoming a reality.

Last week the Board of Alderman unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance that allows for the rezoning of the 14 acres next to the restaurant where the new concert venue is to be built.

A second reading is now set for their meeting on October 1st.

To help with noise issues brought up by area residents, the Prewitt’s plan to install a 185-foot sound barrier and place the stage away from the area homes.

Officials say the decision to approve the project stems from over 150 letters that were sent to the board, all showing their support for the project.

A maximum of 12 events are scheduled to be held yearly at the venue.

Wal-Mart Introduces New Team Based Operating Model – Increases Pay

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Some employees of Wal-Mart will likely see a pay raise soon.

The company announcing earlier this week that they’re starting a new team-based operating model for it’s Supercenters, which comes with higher pay.

The new wages for hourly team lead roles will start between $18 and $21 dollars an hour and can go up to $30.

The company says the raises would take effect in October and it takes the place of the annual increases employees usually get in February or April.

Lake Area Teachers And School Staff To Get Free Car Washes On Sunday

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Teachers, College Professors and staff of Lake Area schools are welcomed to a free car wash this Sunday.

Officials with Kwik Kar in Osage Beach say they’re doing this to recognize the countless hours of work our local educators put in to ensure our students receive a quality education.

The only requirement for the free supreme wash is that you must present a teacher or staff ID.

The event takes place on Sunday between 9AM to 4PM.

In recognition of their countless hours of work to ensure students receive a quality education, Kwik Kar Wash Detail and…

Posted by Kwik Kar of Osage Beach on Thursday, September 17, 2020

Number Of Items On Camden County Commission Agenda Thursday Morning

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Several items are on the agenda for the Camden County Commission this morning.

That includes two grants, one for the Sheriff’s office for radios and another for the Macks Creek Water District.

The board also is looking at the rezoning of two properties.

The meeting is set for 10AM at the old courthouse and it is open to the public.

AGENDA(10)

Unemployment Rate Went Up For August In Missouri

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New numbers show the unemployment rate in Missouri went up in the month of August.

The Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development says there were 12-hundred fewer jobs in August than in July.

Missouri’s unemployment rate of 7.0 was up a tenth of a percent from 6.9 in July.

The national unemployment rate for August was 8.4 percent.

Bikefest Officially Underway Across The Lake Area

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Bikefest is officially underway across the Lake area.

Motorcycles from across the country began making their way into the Lake of the Ozarks on Wednesday.

The 14th annual event is expected to draw at least 125,000 riders through the weekend.

The main attractions include free concerts and biker activities in Lake Ozark, Osage Beach, Camdenton and Sunrise Beach.

A number of riders tell KRMS News they often come for the ride on some of the windier roads like Highways 42, 7 and A during the fall season.

MO Service Commission Approves Ameren Rate Change

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Customers of Ameren Missouri will soon see a change in their cost of electricity.

The Missouri Public Service Commission has approved a request by Ameren to adjust their fuel and purchased power on customer’s bills.

Officials say a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours of electric per month will see their credit of $2.07 per month fall to $1.89 per month.

The changes will officially take effect on October 1st.

See the official release from the MO PSC on the changes below.

pr-21-29

The Lake Area Real Estate Market Continues To Surge Despite Lack Of Homes

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The demand for houses in the Lake Area is high, but the number of options is low.

That’s because houses sell so quickly when they hit the market.

      NEWS-09-17-2020 REAL ESTATE 2 - 17th September 2020

Ron Yarbrough with PrimeLending.

He tells KRMS the housing market in Lake of the Ozarks has changed significantly in a short period of time.

Yarbrough says now there are far more people wanting homes than the actual number of houses available.

New OPA Boat Race Set For October In Lake Ozark To Be Broadcasted On KRMS

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There’s a new boat race coming to Lake of the Ozarks October 2nd and 3rd, and it’s all about speed.

      NEWS-09-16-2020 OFFSHORE OZARKS 2 - 15th September 2020

Mark Waddington’s the owner of Performance Boat Center in Osage Beach and also the organizer of ‘Offshore at the Ozarks.’

He tells KRMS News many will watch the races by boat, but there will be other options as well.

      NEWS-09-16-2020 OFFSHORE OZARKS 5 - 15th September 2020

Waddington says the timing of the race should be good, after numerous events on the lake were cancelled over the summer due to Coronavirus concerns.

      NEWS-09-16-2020 OFFSHORE OZARKS 3 - 15th September 2020

The new ‘Offshore at the Ozarks’ will feature canopy catamarans, some reaching 140 miles an hour on both Friday and Saturday at the Lake.

The race will take place the same weekend as the Big Bash Bash fishing tournament, however organizers have agreed to start the race on Saturday well after the last weight in is completed to avoid any issues between the events.

You can catch the play by play of the races on News/Talk KRMS AM 1150, FM 97.5 & 103.3 with Host Brendan Matthews, along with numerous OPA Officials, on Friday October 2nd from 11am -5pm  and Saturday October 3rd from 3pm-6pm. Our sister stations Classic Country 104.9, 98.7 The Cove and 935 ROCKS will also provide live race updates.

 

State Fair College To Host Commercial Drivers Course

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Commercial drivers are in high demand in the Lake Area and around Missouri, and now you can learn to become one at State Fair Community College.

The Commercial Driving Academy is a four-week course designed by employers and State Fair says it’s the leading truck driver program in the region.

You do have to be 18 or over and you have to complete a DOT physical and drug screening to apply to the academy.

 

Enrollment in Commercial Driving Academy at SFCC now open 

Sedalia, Missouri – Sept. 14, 2020 – State Fair Community College’s The LearningForce is now enrolling students in its Commercial Driving Academy (CDA) on the Sedalia campus. The course has been designed by employers and is the region’s leading truck driver training program.

Drivers with a Class A Commercial Drivers License (CDL) are in high demand and can earn good pay and bonuses. Other benefits may include vacation pay, health insurance, 401K plans, and advancement to other related careers such as recruitment, supervising and dispatching are possible. Drivers can choose to work solo or as a team and can choose local, regional or long-haul routes.

Four-week CDA classes begin monthly and consist of classroom instruction and driving time. Individuals must be at least 18 years old, obtain a CDL permit with air brakes endorsement, and complete a DOT physical and drug screening to apply for the academy. Upon completion, students will be prepared to earn a Class A CDL.

Go to sfccmo.edu/cda for program information, an application with a step-by-step guide and funding assistance opportunities. George Owens, a certified driver trainer, is the instructor.

The LearningForce offers a diverse schedule of noncredit continuing education courses for business and industry, professional development and personal enrichment. For questions, call (660) 530-5822 or email thelearningforce@sfccmo.edu.

Gas Prices Up And Down Across The Ozarks

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Gas prices are up and down across the Lake area for the weekend.

Boaters on the water are seeing an average of $2.20 to $2.35 per gallon for 87 Octane and $2.90 to $3.15 per gallon for 93 Octane.

Diesel is coming in around $2.44 to $2.90 per gallon.

According to Gas Buddy dot com, drivers on Lake Area Roadways are seeing an average of $1.23 to $2.05 per gallon for regular.

Right now, the cheapest gas is at $1.70 per gallon in the city of Camdenton and the highest gas is $2.05 in Eldon.

Sales Tax Revenue Up In Counties Surrounding The Lake

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Sales tax revenue is up across the Lake area and even in nearby counties.

Officials in Laclede say their general fund and county tax is now at more than $261,000 dollars, compared to $255,000 this time last year.

The County says they remain optimistic about the remainder of the year.

On social media, people say they believe the rise in tourism is due to the free and open spaces surrounding the Lake Area, along with the freedoms of choosing to wear a mask and social distance without any laws.

Others say it’s the lack of major city crime and pollution that is enticing them to visit the area.

Reduced Parking On LO Strip This Weekend

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Reduced public parking on The Strip in Lake Ozark on Saturday.

The city says public parking will not be allowed from Bagnell Dam to School Road starting Saturday morning at 2am through 7 o’clock Saturday night.

The closures come as the Magic Dragon Street Meet Nationals take place Friday through Sunday.

Public parking will be allowed during Hot Summer Nights on Friday night.

Businesses in the area will stay open for the weekend.

 

Public Service Announcement

City of Lake Ozark

9/10/2020

 

This weekend brings two popular events to The Strip in Lake Ozark – Hot Summer Nights Friday night and the Magic Dragon Street Meet Nationals car show Friday through Sunday.

With those events, there are special parking restrictions for the public.

There will be no public parking on The Strip from School Road to Bagnell Dam from 2 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday to allow for car show vehicles to be displayed. Any non-show vehicles left on The Strip during that time frame will be towed.

The Strip will reopen to regular traffic and parking at 7 p.m. Saturday.

Police Chief Gary Launderville said 12 vehicles were towed last year at the expense of the vehicles’ owners.

Businesses will remain open throughout the weekend.

Grand American Shoot Brings Nearly 6000 People – Earns Nearly 2.7 Million Dollars For The Lake

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New numbers are in from the Grand American Shoot held in Linn Creek earlier this year.

Officials with the Amateur Trapshooting Association say there were nearly 2,000 shooters for the main event.

For the Youth shoot, it’s estimated that there were around 4,000 people in attendance.

In total, there were 45 states represented for the event.

The Tri-County Lodging Association says nearly 8,000 rooms were rented, bringing in around $2.7 million dollars to the Lake area.

The Grand American Shoot normally takes place in Sparta Illinois, however due to COVID 19 restrictions the organization elected to host it at the Lake instead.

It’s unknown if they will return for any future events in the years to come.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 10, 2020

 

GRAND AMERICAN SHOOT – HUGE SUCCESS AT LAKE OF THE OZARKS

Lake of the Ozarks recently hosted the Grand American Shoot, in conjunction with the Amateur Trapshooting Association (ATA), at the Missouri Trapshooters Association (MTA) range in Linn Creek, Missouri August 2nd through 15th, 2020.  The event had 1,959 classified shooters, and this number does not include the Youth Shoot.  The Missouri Trapshooters Association estimates that there were 4,000 people on the MTA complex during the youth shoot.

Information gathered from event organizers indicates a total of 45 states were represented, with the top ten states being Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Iowa, Arkansas, Kansas, Ohio, Tennessee, Indiana, and Minnesota.  The event garnered over 7,900 room nights, and the economic impact is estimated to be approximately $2.7 million dollars for the Lake of the Ozarks area.

Lagina Fitzpatrick, Director of Sales, first learned that this event was seeking backup locations in late April.  The event is usually held in Sparta, Illinois.  Ms. Fitzpatrick stated: “The Executive Director of Amateur Trapshooting Association contacted our office at the end of April about the possibility of moving the event if the State of Illinois did not loosen their restrictions and allow the event to take place in Sparta.  We were one of several locations they were looking at as an alternative to host the event.”  Ms. Fitzpatrick worked diligently with the Grand American Shoot event organizers and the Missouri Trapshooters Association Board and staff to secure this business for the Lake of the Ozarks, and her efforts paid off.  This event was another opportunity to showcase the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks, resulting in new visitors wishing to return for future trips and vacations.

For more information about Amateur Trapshooting Association and the Grand American, visit their website at www.shootata.com.

Lake Ozark Approves The First Of Two Ordinances Paving The Way For Tiny Homes

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The Lake Ozark board of alderman are approving the first of two ordinances that will pave the way for tiny homes for working people in the city.

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Mayor Gerry Murawski tell KRMS News the first development of the tiny homes will feature houses no more than 800 square feet.

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Murawski says the tiny homes should rent for around $500 dollars per month and that all the homes must be connected to public utilities.

 

For Immediate Release

City of Lake Ozark

9/9/2020

 

The prospect of developing tiny homes in Lake Ozark to address an affordable housing crisis in the lake area moved a bit closer to reality after Lake Ozark Board of Aldermen action Tuesday night.

The board approved first reading of two ordinances that set the stage for the construction of the emerging concept of homes under 800 square feet in size, also known as tiny homes.
Second reading will be offered at the next regular meeting Sept. 22.

One ordinance adopts the definition of tiny homes so developers and contractors have a specific set of guidelines to follow.

The other ordinance amends the city’s zoning code to allow for the construction or development of tiny home cluster developments in R-3 (multi-family) districts.

The board’s interest in tiny homes dovetails with a recent Lake Ozark Planning and Zoning Commission decision to rezone a portion of School Road for the possible construction of tiny homes. A local developer has been working with city officials for several months to create a zoning district so he can build at least one cluster (4-16) of tiny homes. A public hearing will be held Oct. 7 on the rezoning request.

 

Tiny homes/clusters defined

A tiny home is a detached, self-contained dwelling unit with basic functional areas that support normal daily routines such as cooking, sleeping and sanitation. The units must be between 300 and 800 square feet in total floor area, not including lofts. They must be built on-site on a permanent foundation and cannot exceed one story (excluding lofts).

A cluster of tiny homes is one that allows for the flexibility for creative design and superior scenic quality through preservation of sensitive environmental areas and efficient use of land. Instead of a conventional subdivision, which traditionally results in buildings spaced evenly throughout the site, cluster developments allow for individual lot and setback requirements to be reduced so a group or “cluster” of units can be developed on a portion of the site. A cluster must include no fewer than four nor more than 16 units.

The central space used by all occupants of the cluster should include storm shelters, mail receptacles and community recreational areas.

 

Zoning expansion

The city’s zoning code is being expanded to include tiny homes in R-3 (multi-family residential) districts.

A tiny home cluster development can be approved by the P&Z Commission by Special Use Permit and must meet the following conditions including:

  • All tiny homes must be connected to public utilities.
  • All cluster developments must comply with lot setbacks
  • Cluster developments must be retained under common ownership including all tiny houses and common open spaces.
  • Each unit should include at least two parking spaces with no on-street parking within the development.
  • Stairways must not be less than 36 inches wide.
  • Units must meet structural requirements as defined in the adopted ordinance.

 

Parking concern

Alderman Vernon Jaycox shared his concern that parking could become a problem within the cluster developments unless it is closely monitored, and wondered how the limit on number of occupants will be monitored.

“I want to make sure that the building commissioners and the police chief understand that some of these areas will end up with parking problems and too many people in these units,” Jaycox shared. “It’s going to become a problem.

Once you let it get started it’s hard to stop.”

Mayor Gerry Murawski said city officials and the prospective developer have been working on the tiny homes concept for about a year, and that the developer will be “very attuned” to potential issues. He noted that most developments such as this have subdivision rules and restrictive covenants.

“This is a test project for us and the area,” he reminded the board. “We have a housing shortage and we need projects like this. I think the issues can be controlled by developer.”

 

 

City Of Camdenton Sees Significant Revenue Increase For 2020

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The City of Camdenton says revenue has increased significantly since the start of the year.

City Administrator Jeff Hooker says the increase is about 8 ½ percent, which rivals the last major increase seen in the mid-2000’s when Wal-Mart opened up.

He says it is the largest increase since the city began tracking numbers in 1994.

The city’s budget presented to the Board of Alderman at their last meeting shows revenues of $12.3 million and expenditures of $12.8 million for things like public safety and improvement projects.

Hooker says he is working with the city to try and avoid using any reserve funds this year in order to balance the budget.

Tiny Houses Could Be Coming To Lake Ozark Soon

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Lake Ozark wants to build more affordable housing.

      NEWS-09-09-2020 TINY HOMES 1 - 9th September 2020

Harrison Fry is the assistant city administrator in Lake Ozark.

He tells KRMS News that affordable housing could come in the form of tiny houses, which can be built cheaper and in greater numbers.

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A public hearing on rezoning concepts will be happening at the Lake Ozark City Hall October 7th.

 

For Immediate Release

City of Lake Ozark

9/8/2020

 

The Lake Ozark Planning & Zoning Commission has opened the door to the possibility of allowing the construction of tiny homes within the city.

While a final decision rests with the Lake Ozark Board of Aldermen, the P&Z agreed to proceed with rezoning a parcel of property on School Road to allow a local developer to build a “cluster” of homes that would help meet the need for affordable housing not only in Lake Ozark but also the lake area.

The tiny homes movement is evolving from minimalist single individuals and couples in suburban or remote areas to a legitimate option for service industry employees and others on limited income. The Lake of the Ozarks Regional Economic Development Council sponsored a four-county housing study in 2016 that unveiled a critical need for affordable housing.

“With the affordable housing shortage in the area, the tiny homes concept is something we think we should explore,” Harrison Fry, Lake Ozark assistant city administrator/community development director, explained.

 

Public hearing

The P&Z will hold a public hearing at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7, at the Lake Ozark City Hall to consider a rezoning request for an area on School Road from R-1 (residential) to C-2 (general commercial). Letters to property owners (not renters) within 185 feet of the proposed rezoning are being sent out to inform them of the hearing and the request.

The R-1 area is currently surrounded by C-2, so the rezoning actually expands the current C2 area.

If the P&Z approves the rezoning request, the board of aldermen will consider the rezoning at a future meeting before any project can proceed. In addition, the developer must follow existing minimum City of Lake Ozark standards for construction and recently adopted tiny home guidelines.

 

What are tiny homes?

A tiny home is a detached, self-contained dwelling unit with basic functional areas that support normal daily routines such as cooking, sleeping and sanitation. The units must be between 300 and 800 square feet excluding lofts. The minimum square footage would not account for the required cooking facilities, toilet facility areas or lofts which would be in addition to the minimum clear floor area of 120 square feet for a single occupant, 220 square feet for two occupants and 320 square feet for three occupants.

No more than three occupants would be allowed per unit.

They must be built on-site and must be placed on a permanent foundation and cannot exceed one story (excluding lofts). The units must not be mobile. The units must be hooked up to the city’s water and wastewater systems.

All tiny homes must be placed a minimum of 10 feet apart, with no fewer than four and no more than 16 homes allowed within a cluster. The clusters would share a common open space which would include storm shelters, mail receptacles and community recreation areas.

P&Z members were encouraged by the opportunity for the city to potentially offer an affordable housing option.

“I think they’re viable,” one member noted. “I think they are here as another housing option, but the success depends on how the first one is built. If the wrong person comes in as a builder, it could be a disaster.”

Labor Day Weekend Ends With Huge Business Boom

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Business were booming this holiday weekend.

Big Surf Waterpark owner Darin Keim tells KRMS News that despite COVID 19 concerns, this Labor Day weekend closed out one of the biggest crowds he’s seen in a few years.

Vacation rentals were sold out across the lake area as well, with next to no vacancy for the entire weekend.

Area boat gas docks report near record sales while boat and jet ski rentals were fully sold out throughout the weekend.

Keim says many of the vacationers indicated to him that they intend to not only return, but are looking to move here full time to escape the bigger cities.

Lake Regional Express Care Now Open In Camdenton

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A new express care health clinic is now open in Camdenton.

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Nurse practitioner Bob Meyer with Lake Regional Express Care tells KRMS News some of those issues include sprains, strains, ear aches, cuts and bruises.

But Meyer also says it’s important to know the difference between a life threatening emergency and another situation that can be handled at the Express Care.

The new facility’s located in the old Lake Regional Orthopedics building in Camdenton.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

Lake Regional to Open Express Care Clinic in Camdenton

OSAGE BEACH, Mo. — Lake Regional’s Express Care will expand to Camdenton on Tuesday, Sept. 1. The clinic will be open daily — including weekends — at 226 E. Highway 54. Providers include Valerie Donnelson, PA-C, and Robert Meyer, FNP.

Express Care provides walk-in care for non-life-threatening issues, such as colds, earaches, allergies and sprains.

“It’s a great option, especially for visitors to our area and for anyone needing evening or weekend care,” said Lindsay Bentley, director of Lake Regional Clinical Operations. “We are excited to add this convenient care in Camdenton.”

No appointment is needed to visit any of Lake Regional’s Express Care clinics also open daily in Eldon, Lebanon and Osage Beach. For hours, visit lakeregional.com/expresscare or call 573-873-2521.

Lake Regional Express Care – Camdenton is located in the former Lake Regional Orthopedics – Camdenton location. The offices of Jeff Jones, D.O., and Brian Swanson, PA-C, are now located at Lake Regional Orthopedics, 1075 Nichols Road, Osage Beach.

Lake Regional Health System provides comprehensive health care services to residents and visitors throughout the mid-Missouri region. The hospital is a Level II Stroke Center, Level II STEMI (heart attack) Center and Level III Trauma Center. Lake Regional also provides a wide range of specialty care, including cancer care, heart care and orthopedics. Plus, Lake Regional operates primary care clinics, Express Care clinics, rehab therapy clinics, programs for home health and hospice, and retail pharmacies. To learn more, visit lakeregional.com.

State Of The Art Baseball Facilities To Open This Weekend At The Lake

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New state of the art baseball and softball fields are opening up in the Mack’s Creek area.

And there might be more fields coming in the future.

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Ballparks National GM Jeff Vernetti.

He tells KRMS News the fields are made up of field turf that’ll dry quickly when it rains to eliminate rain outs.

The project started in 2014 and a grand opening is planned for this coming Saturday the 5th.

Learn more about the upcoming games, work with local schools, and the possibility of big named events coming this and next year to the new Ballparks National here: BALLPARKS NATIONAL

 

It's time!!! Registration for week long baseball and fastpitch tournaments is now open. 2021 LOZ Summer Championship Series. Come play at the lake!ballparksnational.com

Posted by Ballparks National – Lake of the Ozarks on Wednesday, September 2, 2020

Missouri Gets Green Light For 2021 Hemp Growing Season

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Missouri is getting the green light on its Industrial Hemp Program.

Officials with the USDA approved the program framework Wednesday, allowing the state to run through the 2021 growing season.

In a release, USDA officials indicated there were no changes needed to the plan submitted by the Missouri Department of Agriculture.

2020 was the first year for industrial hemp growing in Missouri, with over 197 registered producers and 75 seed permit holders.

Officials say the first year saw over 3,500 acres of growth with over 60 industrial hemp samplers.

United Airways To Remove $200 US Flight Change Fees Permanently

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Lake Residents flying on United out of Springfield Branson Airport will no longer face fees for changing tickets in the US.

Officials say they are eliminating the $200 fee that flyers have to pay in order to change flights for both standard and premium economy tickets for US Travel only.

The company is also extending a broad waiver of change fees, including international travel, through December 31st, which does apply to United’s lowest ticket cost known as “basic economy.”

Both Delta and American are also waiving their fees through December, but have not announced any permanent removal of the fee.

 

 

United Airlines Permanently Eliminates Change Fees

August 30, 2020

CHICAGO, Aug. 30, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — The only thing constant is change and at United Airlines, some of the fees associated with changes related to flying are gone for good. The carrier announced today that it is permanently getting rid of change fees on all standard Economy and Premium cabin tickets for travel within the U.S., effective immediately. And starting on January 1, 2021, any United customer can fly standby for free on a flight departing the day of their travel regardless of the type of ticket or class of service, a first among U.S. carriers, while MileagePlus Premier members can confirm a seat on a different flight on the same day with the same departure and arrival cities as their original ticket if a seat in the same ticket fare class is available.

United is also extending its waiver for new tickets issued through December 31, 2020, to permit unlimited changes with no fee. This policy applies to all ticket types issued after March 3, 2020 and is valid for domestic and international travel. With these improvements, no U.S. airline gives their customers more flexibility when booking – and changing – their travel plans than United Airlines.

“Change is inevitable these days – but it’s how we respond to it that matters most. When we hear from customers about where we can improve, getting rid of this fee is often the top request,” said Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines, in a video message to customers. “Following previous tough times, airlines made difficult decisions to survive, sometimes at the expense of customer service. United Airlines won’t be following that same playbook as we come out of this crisis. Instead, we’re taking a completely different approach – and looking at new ways to serve our customers better.”

The new change fee policy applies to all standard Economy and Premium cabin tickets for travel within the U.S. 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and customers will not be limited in the number of times they adjust their flights.

Additionally, United is giving customers more flexibility to change their flights on the day of their travel so they can head home if a meeting ends earlier or enjoy a few more hours on vacation. With the ability to list for same-day standby for free, customers will now have an option to take a different flight with the same origin and destination airports as their original itinerary if space is available at departure. This enhanced option will be available to all customers for travel within the U.S. and to and from international destinations beginning on January 1, 2021. Customers who want to switch flights will be able to add themselves to the standby list through United’s award-winning mobile app, on united.com or at the airport no later than 30 minutes prior to departure for domestic flights and one hour before departure on international flights.

The carrier is also improving the travel experience for its MileagePlus members including waiving all redeposit fees on award travel for flights changed or cancelled more than 30 days before departure and allowing all MileagePlus Premier members to confirm a different flight on the day of their travel. As a way to thank MileagePlus Premier members for their loyalty, beginning January 1, 2021, all Premier members will be able to confirm a seat for free on a different flight with the same departure and arrival cities as their original ticket. This expanded option will allow MileagePlus Silver members and above to confirm a new seat in the same ticket fare class if space is available. Earlier this year, United announced that it will extend status for MileagePlus Premier and Global Services members through January 2022. United also reduced thresholds for Premier qualification by 50 percent for each status level, to make reaching an even higher status tier easier.

For more information on United’s new flexible travel policies, visit https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/change-fee.html.

United CleanPlusSM

In addition to these more flexible options, earlier this year, United Airlines began to roll out United CleanPlus: the company’s commitment to putting health and safety at the forefront of the entire customer experience, with the goal of delivering an industry-leading standard of cleanliness. United partnered with Clorox and Cleveland Clinic to help guide its United CleanPlus policies and practices. Several of the airline’s precautionary measures to further ensure a cleaner environment include:

At Check-In

  • Implementing temperature checks for employees and flight attendants working at hubs and other airports throughout the airline’s system
  • Installing sneeze guards at check-in and gate podiums
  • Promoting social distancing with floor decals to help customers stand six feet apart
  • Becoming the first airline in the world to roll out touchless check-in capabilities for customers with bags

At the Gate

  • Disinfecting high-touch areas such as door handles, handrails, elevator buttons, telephones and computers
  • Providing hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes to customers
  • Rolling out Clorox Total 360 Electrostatic Sprayers in select markets to disinfect gate areas at United’s hub airports
  • Enabling customers to self-scan boarding passes
  • Boarding fewer customers at a time and, after pre-boarding, boarding from the back of the plane to the front
  • Introduced real-time seat assignment update text and email notifications to further United’s touchless airport experience

On Board

  • Using electrostatic spraying to disinfect aircraft prior to flight
  • Running high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters on all mainline aircraft from boarding through deplaning
  • Disinfecting high-touch areas – such as tray tables and armrests – prior to boarding
  • Reducing contact between flight attendants and customers during snack and beverage service
  • Deplaning in groups of five rows at a time to reduce crowding
  • Providing onboard items including pillows and blankets upon request

About United

United’s shared purpose is “Connecting People. Uniting the World.” For more information, visit united.com, follow @United on Twitter and Instagram or connect on Facebook. The common stock of United’s parent, United Airlines Holdings, Inc., is traded on the Nasdaq under the symbol “UAL”.

SOURCE United Airlines

Lake Area Farmers Excited For Black Walnut Season

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Lake Area farmers are excited for the annual walnut season due to a better than expected crop.

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Farmer Mike Jackson tells KY 3 TV the extra walnuts can help bring in anywhere between $1,000 to $2,000 dollars for the farm.

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That’s because the walnuts usually sell for around $16 for 100 pounds and there’s going to be plenty to pick this year, despite a lack of rain in the summer.

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VP of Hammonds Walnuts Jacob Basecke says the trees and nuts are healthy thanks to the rains over the springtime.

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Basecke says the Hammonds Facility in Springfield will start accepting Missouri’s black walnuts in their facility around October 1st.

Walnut trees work on a cycle, where for a few years they will not produce many nuts, but then they come back with bountiful harvests.

Lakeland Road Construction Planned For Monday Through Friday Next Week

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Plans to improve Lakeland Road between Highway 54 in Meads Flats and W in Lake Ozark are getting the green light.

The city was approached by the Bagnell Special Road District earlier this week with the idea of finishing the project from one end to the other.

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Lake Ozark City manager Dave Van Dee.

He tells KRMS it shouldn’t take long for contractor, Capital Paving, to have the roadway completely upgraded.

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Van Dee says the city’s portion of the cost is around $60,000.

Work is expected to start Monday and should be completed by Friday, weather permitting.

Pizza Hut Franchisee To Close 300 Locations Across 27 States

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A franchisee of several Missouri Pizza Hut’s and Wendy’s is closing up to 300 locations following a bankruptcy filing on Monday.

According to a release, NPC International based in Leawood Kansas says they plan to close the locations because they “were not designed for pick-up or delivery” plans and they have to find new locations that will fit that need.

NPC owns 1,225 Pizza Hut and 385 Wendy’s locations in 27 states.

Of those, 4 Pizza Hut locations are near the Lake including one in Lebanon, 1 in Buffalo and 2 in the Fort Leonard Wood Area.

It remains unknown if they are part of the 300 being closed or not at this time.

Baxter’s Restaurant Named Top Destination By TripAdvisor

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A Lake Area travel destination’s being recognized by Tripadvisor.com, the world’s largest travel website.

Baxter’s Lakeside Grill has been named a 2020 Traveler’s Choice Award winner.

Tripadvisor says winners in this category are known for getting great feedback from travelers and diners.

Baxter’s Lakeside Grill falls in the top 10-percent of hospitality locations around the globe.

The lake area hotspot is also an OpenTable.com Diner’s Choice Award winner and has won Best of the Lake from Lake Lifestyles Magazine several times.

 

 

Baxter’s Lakeside Grille Earns 2020 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award

 

Lake Ozark, MO – Baxter’s Lakeside Grille on Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks, a popular Midwest travel destination, was recently honored by Tripadvisor®, the world’s largest travel site, as a 2020 Travelers’ Choice award winner. Based on a full year of Tripadvisor reviews, prior to any changes caused by the pandemic, award winners are known for consistently receiving great traveler and diner feedback, placing them in the top 10% of hospitality businesses around the globe.

Travelers’ Choice (formerly Certificate of Excellence) recipients include accommodations, eateries and attractions located all over the world that continually deliver a high-quality customer experience.

“We are honored to receive this recognition,” said Ted Geiger of Baxter’s. “We strive to provide an exceptional dining experience and appreciate all feedback from our guests to help us achieve that goal.”

Located at 2124 Bagnell Dam Boulevard in Lake Ozark, Baxter’s is a classic American restaurant well-known for its views of the Lake of the Ozarks. Baxter’s is also an OpenTable.com Diner’s Choice award winner and multiple Lake Lifestyles’ Best of the Lake award winner, plus has been recognized as an American Express “Member Favorite.”

“Winners of the 2020 Travelers’ Choice Awards should be proud of this distinguished recognition,” said Kanika Soni, Chief Commercial Officer at Tripadvisor. “Although it’s been a challenging year for travel and hospitality, we want to celebrate our partners’ achievements. Award winners are beloved for their exceptional service and quality. Not only are these winners well deserving, they are also a great source of inspiration for diners as the world begins to venture out again.”

Tripadvisor, the world’s largest travel platform*, helps 463 million travelers each month** make every trip their best trip. Travelers across the globe use the Tripadvisor site and app to browse more than 860 million reviews and opinions of 8.7 million accommodations, restaurants, experiences, airlines and cruises. Whether planning or on a trip, travelers turn to Tripadvisor to compare low prices on hotels, flights and cruises, book popular tours and attractions, as well as reserve tables at great restaurants. Tripadvisor, the ultimate travel companion, is available in 49 markets and 28 languages.

 

*Source: Jumpshot for Tripadvisor Sites, worldwide, November 2019

** Source: Tripadvisor internal log files, average monthly unique visitors, Q3 2019

Missouri Has One Of The Fastest Economic Recoveries In The US

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A new study from WalletHub.com shows Missouri hanging in the top ten in the US in the fastest economic recovery during the China Virus pandemic.

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WalletHub analyst Jill Gonzales.

She tells KRMS News the weekely study shows Missouri ranked 20th overall in terms of the best recovery since the start of the Covid pandemic.

Missouri’s unemployment rate was up 8.7-percent last week compared to the beginning of 2020.

 

Despite COVID-19 raging across the U.S., new unemployment claims decreased week-over-week on August 3, and were still 86% below the peak during the COVID-19 pandemic. To help add some context to these statistics, WalletHub just released updated rankings for the States Whose Weekly Unemployment Claims Are Recovering the Quickest

To identify which states’ workforces are experiencing the quickest recovery from COVID-19, WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across three metrics based on changes in unemployment claims. Below, you can see highlights from the report, along with a WalletHub Q&A. To see the states most recovered since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, click here.

Change in Missouri Weekly Unemployment Claims (1=Quickest Recovery, 25=Avg.):

  • 206.14% Change in Unemployment Claims (Latest Week vs Last Year)
    • 8,131 the week of August 3, 2020 vs 2,656 the week of August 5, 2019
    • 11th quickest recovery in the U.S.
  • 8.79% Change in Unemployment Claims (Latest Week vs Start of 2020)
    • 8,131 the week of August 3, 2020 vs 7,474 the week of January 1, 2020
    • 10th quickest recovery in the U.S.
  • 1,090.14% Change in Unemployment Claims (Since Start of COVID-19 Crisis vs Last Year)
    • 772,078 between the week of March 16, 2020 and the week of August 3, 2020 vs 70,824 between the week of March 18, 2019 and the week of August 5, 2019
    • 20th quickest recovery in the U.S.

To view the full report please visit:
https://wallethub.com/edu/states-unemployment-claims/72730/.

Dollar Tree Expands In The Lake Area

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Dollar Tree is expanding at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Officials with the city of Camdenton have confirmed that there will be a new Dollar Tree going up in front of the Orscheln store.

A new Gerbes gas station is also being built in that same space.

The city expects the projects to be completed sometime in the next 60 days, but there is no official date being provided at this time.

Dollar Tree first came to the Lake area during the building of the Dierbergs Lakeview Pointe shopping center in 2013 and officially opened to customers in 2015.

Lake Area & Missouri Top Places For Economic Recovery In The US

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A top-10 ranking for the Lake Area and Missouri in dropping unemployment claims over the last week.

WalletHub.com’s weekly study shows a ranking of 7th in the U-S in dropping unemployment claims over the last week.

These results come as record numbers of people are coming to the Lake Area this summer.

      NEWS-8-7-2020 MISSOURI ECONOMY 1 - 8th August 2020

Lake Ozark Mayor Gerry Murawski.

Right now, Missouri has the 20th best economic recovery in the country since the start of the China virus.

 

To identify which states’ workforces are experiencing the quickest recovery from COVID-19, WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across three metrics based on changes in unemployment claims. Below, you can see highlights from the report, along with a WalletHub Q&A. To see the states most recovered since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, click here.

Change in Missouri Weekly Unemployment Claims (1=Quickest Recovery, 25=Avg.):

  • 252.62% Change in Unemployment Claims (Latest Week vs Last Year)
    • 9,884 the week of July 27, 2020 vs 2,803 the week of July 29, 2019
    • 9th quickest recovery in the U.S.
  • 32.25% Change in Unemployment Claims (Latest Week vs Start of 2020)
    • 9,884 the week of July 27, 2020 vs 7,474 the week of January 1, 2020
    • 10th quickest recovery in the U.S.
  • 1,119.19% Change in Unemployment Claims (Since Start of COVID-19 Crisis vs Last Year)
    • 762,931 between the week of March 16, 2020 and the week of July 27, 2020 vs 68,168 between the week of March 18, 2019 and the week of July 29, 2019
    • 20th quickest recovery in the U.S.

To view the full report and your state’s rank, please visit:
https://wallethub.com/edu/states-unemployment-claims/72730/.

 

Will recent increases in retail sales help reduce unemployment?

“Recent increase in retail sales will help reduce unemployment to some degree because the more revenue businesses are able to bring in, the more prepared they will be to start hiring again. While an uptick in sales is good news for retail, we can do even more to help the sector by practicing social distancing in public to minimize the spread of COVID-19,” said Jill Gonzalez, WalletHub analyst. “We’ll see bigger reductions in unemployment once stores are able to operate at full capacity and all businesses are allowed to reopen, but that may not happen until there is a vaccine. In the meantime, several major retailers such as Walmart and Target have started the #maskup movement, requiring people to wear a mask in stores regardless of state laws. If mandatory mask wearing becomes commonplace in stores, that will lead to greater consumer confidence and less COVID-19 transmission.”

How is the wearing of masks linked to unemployment?

“Wearing masks helps prevent the release of droplets from the mouth or nose that may contain COVID-19, which consequently can help minimize the spread of the virus. Countries with more prevalent mask wearing have been less impacted by coronavirus, so mandating the use of masks in public may help us proceed to a full reopening sooner,” said Jill Gonzalez, WalletHub analyst. “Consumers are more comfortable going out when they know everyone will be wearing masks, according to a recent WalletHub survey, and greater confidence leads to more people leaving the house and supporting businesses again.”

How do red states and blue states compare when it comes to recovery?

“With an average rank of 24 among the most recovered states, blue states had a better recovery from unemployment claims last week than red states, which rank 27 on average,” said Jill Gonzalez, WalletHub analyst. “The lower the number of the ranking, the bigger the state’s recovery was.”

Backwater Jacks Amphitheater Vote Tabled For September

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Plans to build an amphitheater at Backwater Jacks are being tabled for now by the city of Osage Beach.

The board of aldermen voted to hold off the property rezoning plans until September 17.

The Osage Beach planning commission recently voted in favor of the project; however, the city still has to approve the rezoning.

A number of residents remain concerned about traffic and sound issues.

Officials with the project say they do not anticipate traffic issues and are planning to install barriers to protect from the sound.

Missouri Maintains AAA Credit Rating Despite COVID

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The state of Missouri is maintaining its Triple A credit rating.

According to Moody’s Investor Service, the outlook for the state is stable with strong financial management practices in place and below average debt and pension burdens.

The S&P Global ratings say the ratings and outlook on all Missouri debt is stable.

The state competitively sold $173 Million to refinancing their outstanding bands yesterday, saving Missourians around $22 million dollars in total.

 

Missouri Taxpayers to Save $22 Million Through Bond Refinancing, State’s AAA Credit Rating Reaffirmed

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, the state of Missouri competitively sold $173 million to refinance outstanding bonds, saving Missouri taxpayers approximately $22 million. The true interest cost of the new bonds was 0.38 percent.  

“I’m very proud of our public servants who continue working hard to maintain Missouri’s AAA credit rating,” Governor Mike Parson said. “We always want to do what’s best for our citizens, and we remain committed to finding solutions that will save Missouri taxpayers’ hard earned dollars.”

According to Moody’s Investor’s Service, “The outlook for the state of Missouri is stable, reflecting the state’s history of stable available fund balances, strong financial management practices, and below average debt and pension burden. Missouri’s strong expenditure flexibility has enabled the state to proactively respond to the revenue declines caused by the coronavirus.”

S&P Global Ratings affirmed its AAA long-term rating on Missouri’s general obligation bonds outstanding, and its AA+ rating on the state’s appropriation-backed debt outstanding. The outlook on all ratings is stable.

 S&P stated that its AAA rating is based on Missouri’s “very strong budget management framework, demonstrated by the executive branch’s high degree of expenditure flexibility to maintain budget balance; steady budget performance and revenue growth; and an overall diverse economic base, stable wealth and income levels, and recently steady employment growth.”

 Additionally, Fitch Ratings affirmed Missouri’s Issuer Default Rating (IDR) and general obligation bond ratings at AAA and rated the state AA+ on both a long-term rating and unenhanced long-term rating for Missouri Board of Public Buildings Special Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series B 2020.

 Fitch said Missouri’s AAA IDR “reflects the state’s low long-term liability burden, historically conservative financial operations and broad, diverse economy.”  Fitch added that “Missouri remains well-positioned to withstand future economic downturns, given its very strong gap-closing capacity due to strong executive control over revenues and spending, and a demonstrated willingness to take timely budgetary action.”

“This is great news for the people of Missouri,” Governor Parson said. “We have faced some major challenges over the past several months, but this is another positive sign that Missouri is on the right track.”

The Board of Public Buildings met today to discuss the purchase, sale, and issuance of the Special Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series B 2020. Governor Parson, Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe, and Attorney General Eric Schmitt were in attendance.

Energy Loans Now Available In Missouri

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Loan applications are now being accepted for energy improvement in Missouri.

Through October 30th, schools, universities, hospitals, airports and government agencies can apply for low-interest loans ranging from 10-thousand dollars to one million dollars to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy.

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources says the program is designed to help the state’s economic recovery by reducing energy costs.

 

JEFFERSON CITY, MO, AUG. 3, 2020 – The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is now accepting low-interest energy improvement loan applications. Public K-12 schools, public colleges and universities, local governments including municipal, county, regional and international airports, public water and wastewater treatment facilities and public and not-for-profit hospitals are eligible to compete for a total of $4.5 million for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects throughout the state.

The loan application period runs from Aug. 3, 2020, through Oct. 30, 2020, for loans between $10,000 and $1 million. Loan applications will be evaluated on a competitive basis by the department’s Division of Energy. If money remains after applications have been reviewed and prioritized, consideration will be given to loans in excess of $1 million.

“As part of the state’s effort to support economic recovery, the Department of Natural Resources is pleased to offer an Energy Loan Program cycle to help eligible applicants make cost-saving energy improvements,” said Craig Redmon, director of the department’s Division of Energy. “The program can help stimulate Missouri’s economy by saving taxpayer money and supporting jobs in Missouri.” Loans are repaid from energy savings achieved. Loans to public schools and local governments do not count against debt limits or require a public vote or bond issuance.

The loans, administered as part of the Energy Loan Program, provide financing for energy-saving investments, such as high-efficiency lighting fixtures and lamps, high-efficiency heating ventilation and air-conditioning systems, combined heat and power systems, renewable energy systems, waste heat recovery, energy-efficient fine bubble diffusers and high-efficiency pumps, building shell improvements, such as insulation and other infiltration measures, and other measures that reduce energy use and cost.

Since the Energy Loan Program’s inception in 1989, the Department has awarded more than 622 loans, resulting in more than $118 million in completed energy efficiency projects and more than $214 million in estimated cumulative energy savings. There have been no loan defaults in the 31-year history of the Energy Loan Program.

For a list of recipients or to learn more about the Energy Loan Program, please visit energyloan.mo.gov or contact the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Energy at 573-751-2254 or toll-free at 855-522-2796.

Great Bagnell Dam Duck Drop Still On For Next Weekend

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The 12th annual Great Bagnell Dam Duck Drop is still on for next weekend.

Officials say they have no plans to cancel at this time, but they are looking for PWC volunteers.

You must have a trailer and be able to launch at the Osage River.

The two-day event starts Friday the 31st with a Golf Tournament at the Golf Club at Deer Chase.

On Saturday there will be a kids Fun Zone and the Ducks drop from the sky into the water at noon.

The first duck to cross wins $5,000 with 10 other ducks winning additional prizes.

The Golf Club at Deer Chase with a shotgun start at 1:30 p.m. The cost is $125/player and includes lunch, play, and 10 Duck Drop.

The Kids Fun Zone opens at 10 a.m Saturday and ducks fly from the sky at noon. All funds raised will be distributed to non-profit organizations through the Ozark Coast Kiwanis Organization

More details can be found on their website: http://greatdamduckdrop.com/

 

Hi all Lake friends. We are in need of some folks on wave runners to help with the upcoming Duck Drop event. You will…

Posted by Mike Waggett on Wednesday, July 22, 2020

Camden County Library Working On Grants To Help Community

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The Camden County Library is remaining hopeful of a new bill in congress, which could bring 10 million dollars to the Show Me State and some of it could be coming to the Lake area.

      NEWS-07-23-2020 LIBRARY GRANTS 1 - 23rd July 2020

Camden Library Director Michael Davis.

He tells KY 3 TV he’s hopeful of it, but until then he’s already working to get a federal grant.

Davis says the grant money would be used to add internet hot spots in our area parks and computers for the public to use with telehealth visits.

      NEWS-07-23-2020 LIBRARY GRANTS 2 - 23rd July 2020

The county’s grant application is due by the end of the month.

The federal Library Stabilization Fund Act which would yield a total of $1.7 Billion for libraries is not expected to pass until later this year.

HyVee To Hand Out Over 3 Million Masks To Patrons – But Wearing Them Isn’t Required

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HyVee says they won’t be requiring guests to wear a mask, but they are going to hand them out just in case.

According to a release, the company plans to give out over 3 million free masks in their stores starting on Monday July 27th.

Currently only HyVee employees have been required to wear masks.

The company’s Vice President indicated that it’s “Difficult to enforce the mask rules without knowing people’s medical conditions, as some cannot wear a mask.”

“While our employees are required to wear masks at work, we are not mandating masks for customers, except where ordered by states/local governments,” a Hy-Vee customer service representative says.

Hy-Vee vice president of communications Tina Potthoff says “It’s very difficult to enforce that without asking people their medical histories. There are many people in the country that cannot wear masks for medical reasons.”

The free masks program will coincide with the CDC’s “Mask it up to shut COVID down” initiative that is also starting this week.

 

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (July 21, 2020) — In an effort to protect its customers and employees from COVID-19, Hy-Vee will distribute free masks to those entering its stores starting Monday, July 27. The company will hand out more than 3 million free masks in an effort to help support the CDC’s recommendation to wear masks in public by launching a new initiative called “Mask It Up To Shut COVID Down. It’s Your Choice.”

Starting July 27, employees will be stationed at the front doors of all stores to hand out masks to customers who are not wearing one prior to shopping. Customers will also see signage, employee attire, and other reminders around the store about the educational campaign.

Hy-Vee employees have been wearing masks since nearly the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Midwest grocer was recently named one of the top three supermarkets in America for its handling of the COVID-19 crisis.

Lake Real Estate Market Booming – Breaking Records

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The Lake of the Ozark’s Real Estate Market is beating records from the past 4 years.

According to recent data, the market has seen over 1,600 sales for a total of $371 million dollars since January.

That’s nearly 500 more sales and $50 million dollars more than 2019.

Realtors across the region say they cannot keep a house on the market for longer than 3-5 days and that even interior or non-lake front homes are selling faster than usual.

KRANTZ & ASSOCIATES

SGF Could Feel The Pinch If Furloughs Come Through On Major Airlines

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Impacts could be felt soon for Lake area travelers heading in and out at the Springfield Branson National Airport, as several major airlines look at additional cuts.

Nearly 36,000 United Airlines employees have receive notice they could be furloughed in October.

Citing an 80% drop in revenue, American Airlines expect they too could furlough up to 25,000 employees.

With more than four billion dollars lost last quarter, Delta says even after 17,000 took exit packages…they feel they are still over staffed.

More than 2500 pilots have been warned of a possible furlough when the government’s payroll support ends in September.

Delta, United and American, along with low cost Allegiant, are the primary flights in and out at SGF.

FJ Propellers Purchases Hering Propellers – Plans To Move Them To Osage Beach

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A lake area propeller business has completed the purchase of another major propeller company.

According to SpeedOnTheWater.com, FJ Propellers owner Casey Boaz and family have purchased Hering Propellers in Washington State.

Plans are for Hering to continue operating there until 2021, when they plan to re-locate the facility to Osage Beach alongside the existing FJ site.

Both businesses will remain separate entities, as FJ focuses on repair and tuning services while Hering produces new propellers, both made for offshore racing boats.

Casey Boaz of FJ Propellers is a two-time offshore powerboat racing champion and the owner of the CR Racing team.

Photo courtesy of Hering Propellers Facebook Page.

Boat Sales And Repair Begin Backlog As Demand Rises Lakewide

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It’s a busy summer in the Lake Area with a lot of people coming in from places like Kansas City, St. Louis and other cities.

The busy summer’s created a waiting list if your boat needs work.

      NEWS-07-19-2020 BUSY BOATING 1 - 20th July 2020

Mark Dickey with Freshwater Marine Sales and Service.

He tells KRMS News the main problem he’s facing is a shortage of parts and supplies to work on boats.

      NEWS-07-19-2020 BUSY BOATING 2 - 20th July 2020

Dickey says his boat shop now has a waiting list of almost a month for boat service and there’s a shortage of new boats to buy in some cases.

 

Gas Prices Higher This Weekend On The Water & By Land

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Gas prices are a bit higher this weekend across the Lake.

Boaters are seeing an average of $2.30 to $2.60 per gallon for 87 octane and $3.15 to $3.60 per gallon for 93 octane.

Diesel is coming in around $2.20 to $2.60 per gallon.

According to Gasbuddy.com, drivers on lake area roadways are seeing around $1.70 to $1.99 per gallon.

The highest was $1.99 in Eldon while the Lowest is $1.70 in Osage Beach.

No Lake Area Cities Require Masks But They Recommend It

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There are no cities in the Lake Area that force people to wear masks during the COVID-19 pandemic.

But one Lake Mayor thinks wearing a mask in some cases is a good idea, but there are exceptions.

      NEWS-07-18-2020 LAKE OZARKS MASKS 1 - 18th July 2020

Lake Ozark Mayor Gerry Murawski.

He tells KRMS News it could also be dangerous for people to wear masks while working outside in the heat of summer.

Murawski also says many bars and restaurants in Lake Ozark can seat people outside, and masks could be dangerous for customers to have face coverings during the high daytime temperatures expected over the weekend.

But Murawski does recommend wearing a mask if you’re indoors and surrounded by a lot of people.

Brumley Tavern Re-Opens With New Owners

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A Lake Area tavern is back open after sitting dormant for more than 2 years.

New Brumley Tavern owner Justin Wall.

      NEWS-07-17-2020 BRUMLEY TAVERN - 18th July 2020

Wall tells KRMS News frog legs are a specialty at Brumley Tavern.

He also says weekly entertainment includes live music and DJs.

what a great time we all had last weekend, between ribbon cutting & grand opening festivities we are in full swing and rocking the house every weekend! don't forget to check out DJ Rockin Raines TONIGHT! 9-1

Posted by Brumley Tavern on Friday, July 17, 2020

Lake Area Holiday Inn Express Completes $1.5 Million Dollar Renovations

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A Lake area hotel has completed a $1.5 Million dollar renovation.

Officials with Holiday Inn Express say they’ve totally renovated their rooms with new walls, lighting, furniture and bedding.

They also renovated the public spaces and the exterior of the hotel, including adding a new roof.

The renovations began in January of 2019 and were completed on Thursday.

 

Holiday Inn Express in Osage Beach completes renovation

$1.5 Million

Osage Beach, MO  07/16/2020 — Holiday Inn Express in Osage Beach has completed a massive renovation of all rooms, public spaces and exterior of the hotel.

Renovations were started in January of 2019 with a new and vibrant exterior and continued inside with a welcoming lobby and breakfast area featuring IHG’s signature breakfast items.  Over the next year, each guest room was stripped bare and re-constructed with all new finishes and furniture.  Finally, a new roof was installed in the last month.

Rhonda Martin, the General Manager, believes that all of our guests will be extremely pleased with the results of this renovation.  Rooms are well equipped, comfortable and modern.

We understand how important cleanliness is to you and as an IHG Hotel, we deliver the IHG Clean Promise.

 

Newly renovated guest rooms and hallways!

Posted by Holiday Inn Express Osage Beach – Lake of the Ozarks on Wednesday, May 13, 2020

Fate Of Backwater Jack’s Amphitheater In Hands Of The Board Of Aldermen

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The fate of a 2,000-seat amphitheater at Backwater Jack’s in Osage Beach now rests in the hands of the board of aldermen.

Officials with the Planning and Zoning commission voting 5 to 2 in favor of re-zoning the 14-acre parcel of land to allow for the amphitheater, sending it to the board for a final vote.

In addition to the amphitheater, the Prewitt family says they plan to install sound barriers to push sound away from existing residences, as well as a 185-foot buffer around the property.

There would also be a new 300-space parking area included in the project.

More Lake Area Stores To Require Masks – Arkansas To Require Them Statewide

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More lake are businesses are now requiring masks when entering the store.

They include Dierbergs, Target, Walgreens and CVS Pharmacy.

On Thursday we reported that Wal-Mart, Gerbes, American Eagle, Menards, Dollar Tree, Kohls and Starbucks were also requiring masks.

Several cities have adopted mask requirements as well, including nearby Springfield and Columbia.

In addition to those, the Governor of Arkansas has also order masks to be worn statewide starting on Monday.