Cole Camp Chamber met Tuesday, July 9 at the German Table. President Dylana Fox called the meeting to order. Following approval of past minutes and Treasurer’s report the group heard a report on the Tastings & Tunes held Saturday, June 29 from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
The group learned there were nearly 200 in attendance with 75% to 80% being from out of town. The vendors were very happy with the evening. It was evident the changes and updates in the event, especially the music, made a large difference.
Zucchini races are to be held on Saturday, July 20 in Ezekiel Williams Park (on the Pickle Ball Court) with registration beginning at 5:00 PM.
Under upcoming events, Sam Cole stated the Oktoberfest is still scheduled for Saturday, September 28 in the Jaycee gardens. She reminded everyone to mark their calendars to be in the German Table on Thursday, September 26 with your paring knife in tow. It is German Potato Salad making time and she needs the help. Not unpleasant with everyone sitting around, visiting and peeling potatoes. If anyone desires to pitch in and help just show up and you are welcome.
It was learned the spout on one of the Chamber coffee pots is damaged. It was approved to have it repaired rather than buy a new one. Discussion was also held on setting up a “Chamber” table at Christbaumfest to sell some of the merchandise the chamber has, such as Tee-shirts, and especially Christmas ornaments.
Chamber members will be busy that day so possibly strike a deal with the 4-H to man the booth. Will finalize plans at August meeting. Chamber also needs help in decorating the Santa area and the possible loan of some decorations.
Susan Kyle reminded the group the Chamber has always given the Cole Camp Fair Board a $1,000 donation and would they be able to do that again. Sam Cole made a motion to up the amount to $1,500 and it was approved.
Dylana Fox said the Chamber was planning something new for Saturday, July 25 from 4:00 PM-8:00 PM and it gives people a reason to come downtown to dine and shop in the evening. This was just a spontaneous happening to beat the summer doldrums. She hinted there might even be a Scavenger hunt too if they could pull it together.
Benton County Economic Development Director, JoAnn Lane gave a mini report for Tourism Director, Lynette Stokes as Lynette was in meetings at Warsaw planning the Water ski event for their Harborfest on August 3 in the Harbor. Lynette wanted the chamber to know she really enjoyed Tastings & Tunes.
JoAnn reminded everyone the Women’s Business Center has scheduled a second “How to improve your credit score” seminar on Wednesday, October 9 at Lincoln City Hall. A meal is provided as well as gas cards if it is needed. This is excellent for High School Seniors as they prepare to take their place out in the world and manage their own finances. Registration is required.
JoAnn shared that (Ashley Raetz) RiOak on North Maple has been featured in two different magazine articles due to her exposure during the CEC Conference (Creating Entrepreneurial Communities) in September 2023. The event was overseen in Benton County by Tourism, MU Extension with BCED (JoAnn Lane) making every detail as perfect as possible. It was well-attended by a large group from all over Missouri and some from out of state.
Everyone was encouraged to attend the Cole Camp City Council meeting on Thursday evening in City Hall at 7:00 PM. Susan Kyle reminded everyone to support the Fish Fry to support the Happy Feet program that has set a goal of $3,000 to purchase school shoes for needy children in the area. Susan also reminded everyone to please support the Fair Breakfast scheduled for Saturday morning, August 3 from 6:30 AM-9:00 AM. They are only having one this ear. Also the Back to School Clothing Sale is scheduled on August 3 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at St. Paul's Church.
The August meeting will be at noon on Tuesday August 13, location to be announced on Facebook later.
