Over 900 served at Friday Squared

On June 8, Commerce Bank and Willis Insurance celebrated their 125th anniversaries by serving free hamburgers and hotdogs to over 900 community members during Friday Squared, which is sponsored by the Cassville Area Chamber of Commerce and local businesses.

"I couldn't have been more pleased with the event," said Mindi Artherton, Cassville Area Chamber of Commerce executive director. "The attendance was great for the entire evening. It did get a little chilly toward the end of the movie, and some folks decided to leave, but overall, I was very proud that our community came out to support this event."

Community members enjoyed shopping, live musical entertainment and a variety of activities during the pre-show block party that was held from 6 to 9 p.m. The Ozark Posse also held a re-enactment and shoot-out during the event.

"Everyone was so thankful that Willis Insurance and Commerce Bank provided dinner at no charge," said Artherton. "I know it was an expense for both businesses, but it was such a gift to our community members.

"I also heard lots of great things about Barry County Connection, J Rock and the Third Street Band and the Ozark Posse," said Artherton. "Everyone came together and did their part so it was a lot of fun."

The Cassville Rotary Club offered free popcorn and Connection magazine served free cookies during the block party. Friday Squared attendees also purchased snow cones from the Cassville High School cheerleading squad.

Youngsters enjoyed games and activities offered by the Cassville High School Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) and the Cassville Branch Library. The Cassville YMCA also provided an inflatable bounce house during the party.

Informational booths were offered by Crowder College, Barry County public administrator candidates Pam Modlin and Stormy Holtzman and Scott Fitzpatrick, who is currently running for a seat in the Missouri House of Representatives.

Community members who attended Friday Squared were encouraged to shop the square during the block party. The BBQ Station, Forever Yours Embroidery, Gussied Up Boutique, Presto Espresso, Smith's Clothing, Towneley Furnishings and Whitley Pharmacy offered a variety of special promotions during the event.

Just Beccaz also took part in the event by setting up a booth on the square. The vendor offered hairbows, skirts and other items for little girls.

"It was great to see good participation from the different organizations and to see a good crowd supporting Cassville," said Gary Whyte, chamber board president. "Congrats to Commerce Bank and Willis Insurance on 125 years of business in town. All in all, fun times were had by all, topping it off with a movie under the stars. Hope to see everyone back in July."

The July event will begin with pre-show block party, which will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. A movie will be shown on the outdoor big screen at dark.

"I have two goals for this event," said Artherton. "The first being to support our local economy. Cassville has such great things to offer, and I hope that Friday Squared will give people a reason to stay in town to shop and eat on a Friday night rather than leave town for the evening.

"The second goal is to provide fun, safe and inexpensive family entertainment," said Artherton. "I think people should plan on attending in July for these two reasons. Save gas and stay in Cassville."

Vendor applications are available for the next Friday Squared, which will be held on July 13.

For more information, call Artherton at 847-2814 or email chamber @cassville.com.