Chamber hears Missouri Boys State account

Missouri Boys State participant Austin Bolin reported on his experience at the California Area Chamber of Commerce meeting Aug. 9.

Sponsored by the chamber, the California High School senior showed about a dozen members a newspaper and cardboard hat, which his mock business made during the eight-day citizenship program, organized by the American Legion at the University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg.

Bolin said each of the 1,000 rising seniors from Missouri's high schools were given $1,000 "Boys State bucks," which could be used to buy materials for campaigning, for building a mock business, or, for some, for gambling. The boys were able to construct their own laws and elect their own government.

Although Bolin's bid for senate didn't pan out, he was elected to the city council.

The chamber members were interested in his business' success. The newspaper hats and visors were popular, earning Bolin's business recognition as the week's top business among about 100 ventures.

In other business, the chamber:

  • Held a ribbon cutting Aug. 4 at the National TV store at Village Green.
  • Noted the chamber office will be closed Sept. 3.
  • Learned that 373 letters have been sent inviting sponsors, vendors or other participants, including 17 marching bands, to the Ozark Ham and Turkey Festival Sept. 15.
  • Will continue to gather information about a future city/county map concept.
  • Noted the business directory on the chamber website is down for maintenance.
  • Tabled for another month the discussion of helping the city with possible Christmas lights improvements, as well as revitalizing some of the chamber's signage.
  • Encouraged the California Progress Inc. to pursue its idea of a periodic meet-and-greet-type event for new and existing businesses.
  • Noted the Moniteau County Extension Office will hold an open house and ribbon cutting Sept. 19.
  • Will consider the benefits of membership in the state chamber organization.