The California Area Chamber of Commerce met for the first time since March 12 last Thursday, discussing alternative plans for the Ozark Ham & Turkey Festival in light of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Chamber's Ozark Ham & Turkey Festival committee made the decision earlier this month to cancel the traditional two-day festival, which brings many out of town visitors into California. Instead, this year's festival will be a one-day community Ozark Ham & Turkey "Celebration" to honor the festival's 30th year.
As with typical years, the celebration will still include a parade Sept. 19. Line up will start at 8:30 a.m. on Smith St. near Cargill. The parade will then begin at 9:30 a.m., traveling up Smith to Oak St., turning on South St. and ending at the Moniteau County Fairgrounds.
The same day, business owners may choose to celebrate by planning special events at their businesses. Organizations and churches may choose, individually, to plan fundraisers or activities as well. The Chamber plans to help promote these events by advertising locally. Those who wish to advertise details of their events or promotions, or those with questions, should contact Chamber Executive Secretary Sandra Ratcliff at 573-796-3040.
At last Thursday's Chamber meeting, the board voted to offer the festival logo to area T-shirt vendors and let them sell individually, as opposed to the Chamber's usual sales. Additionally, the board approved moving $750 from the Ham & Turkey Festival budget to be put toward the fall decorations scattered throughout town during autumn.
Last week also saw the Chamber's 16th annual Golf Tournament take place Wednesday. In total, the tournament saw its largest-ever turnout in teams, with 26 participating. Proceeds from the event are expected to exceed $4,700. Results from the tournament are as follows:
First place team: Gratz Realty - Jim Deeken, Caitlin Phoenix and Rylee Glenn.
Second place team: Garber - Brandon Garber, Tyler Clenin and Hayden.
Third place team: Aaron Koeppen Team
Last place team: Gary Baker, Melissa Baker and Julie Bird, which received the Score Caddy prize.
Closest to pin: Shayne Healea
Longest putt: Roy Barnard
50/50 drawing: Josh Hoskins
In other business, the Chamber has welcomed the following new members since March: A&D Construction Services LLC, Anthony Francis and Align Chiropractic Clinic, and Dr. Brandon Johns, JC MO. There are currently 139 members in the California Area Chamber of Commerce.
The California Area Chamber of Commerce's next regular meeting will take place at 8 a.m. Aug. 13.