The California Area Chamber of Commerce annual dinner, catered by Lutz Famous BBQ, drew 147 guests Jan. 26 to West Ridge Event Center and raised nearly $7,000 for the organization's scholarship program.
The theme was a Hawaiian luau and was served with a whole hog roast. Members of the Show-Me 4-H Club volunteered with serving and clean up. The Piccadilly-style auction drew more than $3,000 in quarters and dollar bills, while the live auction items yielded $3,813.
The 2019 chamber officers elected are President Blake Howard, Vice President Brandy Brockes, Treasurer Pamela Pearon and Secretary Rita Hammerly.
Board Members are Heather Allen, Brad Baer, Denise Barnes, Melissa Bonecutter, Cale Brown, Sharon Campbell, Norris Gerhart, Shelly Hampton, Becky Lawson, Dr. Todd McCluskey, Robin Ratcliff, Roberta Rothstein, Dwight Sanders, Amanda Trimble, Tom Winters and Becky Wood. Molly Forsythe is the student representative on the board.
Outgoing President Robin Ratcliff reviewed the 2018 events, including four ribbon cuttings, several new members, 12 $500 scholarships given to local seniors, a well-attended Easter egg hunt, the 14th annual Golf Tournament, a successful 28th Ozark Ham and Turkey Festival, and Christmas California Style.
New this year, the chamber partnered with local businessman David Wyatt to hold a tribute to 9/11 and with the California Progress Inc to hold a New Business Welcome.