Skaggs Foundation gets Top of the Rock sneak peek, donation by Morris

The Branson-based Skaggs Foundation received a surprise donation from Bass Pro Shops owner Johnny Morris during a weekend dinner at his Top of the Rock restaurant before it reopens to the public.

"We were thrilled just to be able to host our annual bash at Top of the Rock," foundation Communications Officer Ann McDowell told KRZK-FM. "When John called in to talk to the group, he let us know the evening of the event he would like to purchase the dinner instead. That meant about $20,000 of additional funding that we have available now."

The Foundation Bash fundraiser held Oct. 5 is expected to net $100,000 for the Skaggs Foundation, which works to improve health and wellness in Stone and Taney counties. About 250 people in attendance got a sneak peek of Top of the Rock, which is expected to reopen next year adjacent to Morris' Big Cedar Lodge resort. The restaurant and golf course closed for remodeling several years ago following a kitchen fire.

Read more at KRZK-FM.