California Reds visit feather factory

Members of the California Reds touring the Arkansas Valley Feather Factory.
Members of the California Reds touring the Arkansas Valley Feather Factory.

Thursday, Feb. 13, there were 20 women with the California Red's that toured Arkansas Valley Feather. The snow covered roads and cold Missouri weather did not keep the ladies from visiting the feather factory and learning a little bit about what goes on.

Shirley Davenport, Purchasing Agent and Jeannie Pratt, National Sales Manager started the tour with a little history on Arkansas Valley Feather. They explained the company was actually a third Generation business, starting with John and Minnie Dick, then the company was purchased and expanded by their son-in-law and daughter, Juan and Donna Arauz. Now both of their children Abigail Arauz-Chase and Anthony Arauz work full time running the company.

The ladies were happy to hear all of the turkey feathers are from the U.S.

Arkansas Valley has a truck that picks up the feathers at processing plants in nine different states. The feathers are brought back to California where they are sorted, some feathers are used here and others are exported. Arkansas Valley Feather still maintains a full time dye shop, as well as the ability to package feathers in the plant in California.

During the tour the ladies saw where the products are pulled, packed and shipped. They really enjoyed seeing and touching all the fun colors and styles of boas. At the end of the plant tour, went into the office where a small display, similar to what is used during the trade shows was set up. This display showcases the many feathers and manufactured feather items Arkansas Valley Feathers sells under the name of Zucker Feather Products.

Before the ladies left for a lunch at Jalisco Mexican Restaurant, they were given feather boas and fans in red and regal purple.