Forsyth Area Chamber hosts Taney County Candidates

By CINDY THOMAS, Staff Writer

Members and friends of the Forsyth Area Chamber of Commerce gathered for their monthly luncheon on Tuesday, July 12, at the Lake Taneycomo Elks Lodge. Featured speakers were the candidates for several Taney County elected offices.

Following a welcome from Chamber president Rose Backlin, the Pledge of Allegiance, and opening prayer, each candidate spoke for three minutes about his or her experience, qualifications, and goals for the office if elected. Topics addressed included budget; infrastructure to accommodate community growth; and the importance of communication, transparency and availability, with attention to the differing needs of eastern and western Taney County residents.

After each candidate spoke, Backlin wrapped up the informative session by presenting candidates for each office with questions gathered from those present, with 30 seconds per candidate to respond. Questions included how judge candidates felt about leniency involving rehab programs; how to educate young people about the duties of various offices; and goals for improvements at county offices.

The meeting also included a ribbon cutting to dedicate a new billboard, sponsored by Branson Bank and located on Highway 160 near the Elks Lodge east of town, welcoming travelers to Forsyth. Chamber members are optimistic that the billboard will encourage highway travelers who may not be familiar with Forsyth to plan on stopping at the restaurants and other services available in town.

Forsyth Area Chamber of Commerce president, Rose Backlin, cutting the ribbon beside a copy of the new billboard welcoming Highway 160 travelers to Forsyth.

Photo by Cindy Thomas

Backlin also reminded attendees to stay updated via the Chamber website and Facebook page about upcoming events. Harvest Moon Festival is scheduled for October 1, and sponsorships at various levels are available. The next luncheon meeting will be Tuesday, August 9, at Lakeside Event Center. Featured speaker will be a representative from Amazon, to present services available to small businesses.