News
Missouri Amendment 5, the Osage River Gambling Boat License Initiative, is on the ballot in Missouri as an initiated constitutional amendment

A “yes” vote supports allowing the Missouri Gaming Commission to issue one additional gambling boat license to operate on the portion of the Osage River from the Missouri River to the Bagnell Dam. |
A “no” vote opposes allowing the Missouri Gaming Commission to issue one additional gambling boat license to operate on the portion of the Osage River from the Missouri River to the Bagnell Dam. |
The official ballot title is as follows
Do you want to amend the Missouri Constitution to: allow the Missouri Gaming Commission to issue one additional gambling boat license to operate on the portion of the Osage River from the Missouri River to the Bagnell Dam; require the prescribed location shall include artificial spaces that contain water and are within 500 feet of the 100-year base flood elevation as established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency; and require all state revenues derived from the issuance of the gambling boat license shall be appropriated to early-childhood literacy programs in public institutions of elementary education? State governmental entities estimate one-time costs of $763,000, ongoing costs of $2.2 million annually, initial fee revenue of $271,000, ongoing admission and other fee revenue of $2.1 million annually, and annual gaming tax revenue of $14.3 million. Local governments estimate unknown revenue.
Text of Section 39(e): Riverboat Gambling Authorized on Missouri and Mississippi Rivers–Boats in Moats Authorized
1. The general assembly is authorized to permit upon the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers only, which shall include artificial spaces that contain water and that are within 1000 feet of the closest edge of the main channel of either of those rivers, lotteries, gift enterprises and games of chance to be conducted on excursion gambling boats and floating facilities. Any license issued before or after the adoption date of this amendment for any excursion gambling boat or floating facility located in any such artificial space shall be deemed to be authorized by the General Assembly and to be in compliance with this Section.
2. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, lotteries, gift enterprises, and games of chance may be conducted on excursion gambling boats and floating facilities licensed by the Missouri Gaming Commission upon the portion of the Osage River from the Missouri River to the Bagnell Dam, which shall include artificial spaces that contain water and that are within 500 feet of the 100-year base flood elevation as established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
3. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, in addition to such licenses as have been authorized prior to January 1, 2024, the Missouri Gaming Commission shall issue one additional excursion gambling boat license. Such license shall only be issued to an excursion gambling boat that will operate upon the portion of the Osage River from the Missouri River to the Bagnell Dam.
4. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, all state revenues derived from the issuance of excursion gambling boat licenses issued after January 1, 2024 shall only be appropriated to early-childhood literacy programs in public institutions of elementary education and shall not be included within the definition of “total state revenues” in section 17 of article X of this constitution.
5. The state auditor shall perform an annual audit of the revenues received and appropriated pursuant to this section to ensure they are being used only for authorized purposes. The state auditor shall make such audit available to the public, the governor, and the general assembly.
Opposition
Opponents
American Indian Tribes
Arguments
- Meg Cunningham, reporter at The Beacon: “The amendment comes amid an effort from Osage Nation to build a casino at the Lake of the Ozarks. Osage Nation acquired land at the Lake of the Ozarks in 2021 and officially launched a plan to build a casino, which requires coordination with the federal government and clearance from the governor.”
- The Osage River Gaming and Convention (Yes on 5) is the campaign registered in support of the initiative.
Support
The following table includes contribution and expenditure totals for the committees in support of the measure.
Committees in support of Amendment 5

Status of gambling in Missouri
As of 2024, there are certain forms of gambling in Missouri that are legal:
Casino gambling: As of 2024, there were 13 licensed riverboat casinos in Missouri. The casinos must be located on or near a body of water. The Missouri Gaming Commission oversaw the licensing and regulation of these casinos.[2]
Lottery: The Missouri Lottery was created in 1985. The proceeds from the lottery support public education in the state.[6]
Charitable gaming: Charitable games, including licensed bingo, pull-tabs, merchandise coin boards, was restricted to qualified licensed religious, charitable, fraternal, veteran, and service organizations. All bingo tax was deposited into the Proceeds for Education Fund.[7]
Daily Fantasy Sports: Daily Fantasy Sports was legalized in Missouri in 2016. DFS operators must be licensed by the Missouri Gaming Commission and adhere to regulations designed to protect consumers. Operators include DraftKings, FanDuel, and others.[8]
As of 2024, sports betting was illegal in the state. Illegal gambling, including unlicensed games, was prohibited. The Missouri Gaming Commission was responsible for enforcing gambling laws and regulations in the state.[2]
Casinos in Missouri
As of 2024, there were 13 casinos operating in Missouri. They were:
Ameristar Casino Resort Spa: Located in St. Charles, Missouri[9]
Ameristar Casino Hotel: Located in Kansas City, Missouri[9]
Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa: Located in Riverside, Missouri[9]
Bally’s Kansas City: Located in Kansas City, Missouri[9]
Century Casino Cape Girardeau: Located in Cape Girardeau, Missouri[9]
Century Casino Caruthersville: Located in Caruthersville, Missouri[9]
Harrah’s North Kansas City: Located in North Kansas City, Missouri[9]
Hollywood Casino St. Louis: Located in Maryland Heights, Missouri[9]
Isle of Capri Casino Hotel: Located in Boonville, Missouri[9]
Horseshoe St. Louis: Located in Downtown St. Louis, Missouri[9]
Mark Twain Casino: Located in La Grange, Missouri[9]
River City Casino & Hotel: Located in Lemay, Missouri[9]
St. Jo Frontier Casino: Located in St. Joseph, Missouri
News
Super Cat Fest West Boaters Cruise to Pirates Cove for Lunch, Raising Funds for Lake Havasu Charities

LAKE HAVASU CITY, AZ — On the sun-soaked vibrant waters of Lake Havasu over 135 high-performance boats from Super Cat Fest West embarked on a scenic fun run to Pirates Cove Resort in California. The lunch gathering, a highlight of the four-day boating extravaganza, brought together boaters, enthusiasts, and community members in a celebration of camaraderie and charity.
The event, held as part of the third annual Super Cat Fest West, was organized by Dave Johnson of RiverDavesPlace.com and Alvin Heathman, founder of the original Super Cat Fest at Lake of the Ozarks. Headquartered at Havasu Riviera Marina, the festival has become a cornerstone of Lake Havasu’s boating scene, blending high-octane watercraft displays with a deep commitment to supporting local children’s charities.
The fun run to Pirates Cove, a picturesque destination just across the Arizona-California border, saw a flotilla of sleek catamarans, center consoles, and V-drives glide across the Colorado River-fed lake. Boaters docked at the reserved beach area, where they enjoyed a lively lunch filled with music, laughter, and shared stories. The relaxed atmosphere fostered a sense of community, with participants ranging from seasoned boaters to first-time attendees.
“This is what Super Cat Fest West is all about—bringing people together to enjoy the water and make a difference,” said Johnson. “The run to Pirates Cove is a chance for everyone to kick back, soak in the views, and remember why we’re here: to support kids in our community.”
The lunch run was just one part of a packed weekend designed to raise funds for organizations like Rae of Hope, Calvary Christian Academy, and Faith and Grace, which benefit children in Lake Havasu City. The event’s centerpiece, a Saturday night charity auction at Horizon Motorsports.

Participants praised the seamless organization and the event’s laid-back vibe. “The run to Pirates Cove was awesome—great food, great people, and a great cause.
The weekend also featured a Thursday “Street Scene” display at Havasu Riviera Marina, a Friday dock party with glowing boats and live music, and a private after-party at Legendz on Sunday. Each event underscored the festival’s dual focus on boating culture and philanthropy.
As the boats returned to Havasu Riviera Marina under the desert sunset, the success of Super Cat Fest West 2025 was clear. “We’re already looking forward to next year,” Johnson said. “This community shows up every time, and together, we’re changing lives.”
For more information on Super Cat Fest West or to get involved, visit RiverDavesPlace.com.
News
First-Ever Lake of the Ozarks Cannonball Run – Celebration by air, land and sea, with $50,000 in Cash Prizes and Community Giveback at the Lake of the Ozarks

Captain Ron Launches First-Ever Lake of the Ozarks Cannonball Run: A Weeklong Celebration by air, land and sea, with $50,000 in Cash Prizes and Community Giveback
SUNRISE BEACH, MO — Ron Duggan is set to make waves with the launch of yet another exciting new signature event—the 2025 Cannonball Run—happening August 16–23. This high-energy, community-focused event offers participants the chance to win up to $50,000 in cash, enjoy an action-packed lineup of activities, and support local businesses and charities in the process.
Whether you’re staying the week or just passing through, every dollar you spend at Lake-area businesses could help you cash in big—while also giving back to the local community.
How It Works: Shop Local, Win Big
Participants register for the Cannonball Run for $250, which includes one poker hand and entry into either or both grand prize drawings.
Between August 16 and August 23, participants may bring in receipts from any Lake of the Ozarks business (gas, food, retail, hotel, towing, etc.). For every $500 spent, an additional poker hand is awarded—up to 20 total hands per participant. Receipts must include the participant’s name; if using a company card, the registration must match the business name. Receipts are collected at the time of each drawing.
• Double Value: Purchases from official sponsor businesses count double toward poker hands.
• Drawings: Poker hands will be drawn and winners announced on Friday, August 22 and Saturday, August 23. Each winner will receive $25,000 — winner-take-all.
• Bonus Raffle: All registered participants will receive a raffle ticket at check-in, with additional prizes furnished by event sponsors.
“If you’re already here spending money on food, gas, and fun—why not win big while doing it?” said Ron Duggan, event creator and owner of Captain Ron’s Bar & Grill. “The Cannon Ball Run is about celebrating the Lake lifestyle, boosting our economy, and giving back in a meaningful way.”
More Than Just a Game — It’s a Party with a Purpose
From live music to scavenger hunts, car shows to speedway thrills, the Cannonball Run is packed with fun for all ages. All proceeds after prize distribution will be donated to Lake-area charities, ensuring the event has a lasting impact on the community.
Cannonball Run Event Schedule:
**Parking all event long @ Scallywags RV Park**
Wednesday, August 20
• 8:00 AM–5:00 PM: Vendor Village set-up @ Captain Ron’s
• Noon–4:00 PM: Registration @ Captain Ron’s
Thursday, August 21
• 8:00 AM–Noon: Vendor Village & Car Show set-up
• 9:00 AM–1:00 PM: Speedway Skill Challenge @ Ozarks International Speedway
• Noon–5:00 PM: Vendor Village & Car Show open
• Noon–4:00 PM: Registration @ Captain Ron’s
• 2:00 PM–4:00 PM: Meet & Greet @ Captain Ron’s with free appetizers for vendors, spectators & registrants!
• 6:00 PM–10:00 PM: Live Entertainment @ Captain Ron’s
Friday, August 22
• 9:00 AM–5:00 PM: Vendor Village, Car Show & Registration
• 9:00 AM–11:00 AM: Breakfast @ Captain Ron’s
• 9:00 AM–4:00 PM: Captain Ron’s Scavenger Hunt
• Noon–4:00 PM – Registration @ Captain Ron’s
• 1:00 PM–5:00 PM: Live Entertainment
• 4:00 PM–6:00 PM: Receipt Collection & Poker Drawing @ Captain Ron’s
• 7:00 PM: $25,000 Winner Announced @ Captain Ron’s
• 7:00 PM–11:00 PM: Live Entertainment
• 9:00 PM (Dark): Fireworks @ Captain Ron’s
Saturday, August 23
• 9:00 AM–5:00 PM: Vendor Village, Car Show & Registration
• 9:00 AM–11:00 AM: Breakfast @ Captain Ron’s
• 10:00 AM–Noon: Shawnee Bend Sand & Gravel Sandcastle Contest (Cash Prizes)
• 1:00 PM–5:00 PM: Live Entertainment
• 4:00 PM–6:00 PM: Receipt Collection & Poker Drawing
• 7:00 PM: $25,000 Winner Announced @ Captain Ron’s
• 8:00 PM: Presentation of Both Grand Prizes ($50,000)
Sunday, August 24
• 9:00 AM–1:00 PM: Vendor Village @ Captain Ron’s
• 1:00 PM–4:00 PM: We are excited to announce this event!!! Stay tuned.
Registration
Online registration opens soon! In-person registration opens Wednesday, August 20th at Captain Ron’s. Stay Tuned for Website Link & follow along on social media for registration links, sponsor lists, rules, and event updates.
News
New Development coming to Lake Ozark “A Place for Veterans to Come Home”

LAKE OZARK, MO – On Monday, January 27, 2025, a groundbreaking ceremony marked the beginning of an inspiring new chapter for veterans in Lake Ozark. MCS Construction Services, working with Signature Homes of Kansas City and The Lighthouse at Lake Ozark, has officially launched construction on a transformative veterans housing project. Aptly named “A Place for Veterans to Come Home,” the development promises to be a beacon of support, love, and community for those who have served.
Nestled on a sprawling 16.7-acre property at the intersection of Route W and Mockingbird Road, this ambitious project is designed to offer more than just housing—it’s a welcoming embrace for veterans seeking a place to call their own. The name itself paints a vivid picture of the mission: a sanctuary where veterans will always feel valued and at home.
MCS Construction Services, known for their dedication to quality and community-focused projects, is leading the charge to bring this vision to life. The Lighthouse at Lake Ozark, a nonprofit committed to uplifting the region’s residents, an organization fostering connection and support, the collaboration is a powerful testament to what can be achieved when compassion meets craftsmanship.
“We’re honored to build a space that reflects the gratitude we owe our veterans,” said a representative from MCS Construction Services at the groundbreaking event. “This isn’t just about putting up walls and roofs—it’s about creating a foundation for lives to thrive.”
The ceremony, held under clear skies, drew a crowd of local leaders, veterans, and community members who gathered to celebrate the milestone. With shovels in hand, representatives from all three organizations turned the first soil, symbolizing the start of a project that promises to leave a lasting legacy in Lake Ozark.
Once completed, “A Place for Veterans to Come Home” will provide modern, comfortable housing tailored to the needs of veterans, along with resources and a tight-knit community atmosphere. The 16.7-acre site offers ample space for future expansion and amenities, ensuring the project can grow alongside the needs of those it serves.
For MCS Construction Services, this is more than a job—it’s a mission. Their expertise in delivering high-quality construction projects on time and within budget makes them the perfect fit for a development that demands both heart and precision. Together with The Lighthouse at Lake Ozark, they’re building more than homes—they’re building hope.
As construction kicks off, the Lake Ozark community eagerly awaits the day when veterans can step through the doors of their new homes, knowing they’ve found a place where they are truly welcome. For more information on the project’s progress, stay tuned to updates from MCS Construction Services and their partners.
-
Events1 year ago
UPDATE-Death and Drug Investigation Northshore of Lake of the Ozarks:
-
Events2 months ago
Lake of the Ozarks Shootout Move to Osage Beach Hits Snag: No Regatta Permit Secured, Fishing Tournaments Dominate Weekend
-
Sport1 year ago
Lake of the Ozarks Very Own Anna Glennon joined the star-studded Marc Anthony E1 electric race boat team.
-
Hot News1 year ago
Facebook and Messenger Fall Victim to Massive Hacking Attack Today
-
Hot News1 year ago
“Elon Musk Pulls the Plug on Facebook: Zuckerberg’s Blue World Goes Dark” (PARODY STORY)
-
Hot News2 months ago
Osage Beach City Debunks Shock Jock’s Fabricated Raid Tale
-
Lifestyle1 year ago
The Evolution of Boat Motors: A Historical Journey through Innovation and Modern Advancements
-
Hot News3 months ago
Henry County Resident Accuses Evergy of Contaminating Soil and Water with Toxic Chemicals