Festival Will Offer Free Hamburgers, Hot Dogs

“If you can run a bouncy house, guide people, sell a raffle ticket, or sing, we need all the help we can get.”

Free hamburgers, hot dogs and soda — along with a lot of fun — will be offered at the second annual Ozark Orchard Festival.

The family-friendly event is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16.

The festival planning committee is moving ahead with finalizing details. Members agreed to purchase, design and place a banner at a high-traffic area, directing people to the festival; secure a public announcement system; order T-shirts for volunteers; and noted that a donation has been secured from Hostess.

Goodman Mayor Greg Richmond said volunteers are still needed.

“If you can run a bouncy house, guide people, sell a raffle ticket, or sing, we need all the help we can get,” he said.

Volunteers will receive a free T-shirt.

Organizers are also seeking vendors to sell wares. Anyone who wants to volunteer, or sing or entertain, is encouraged to call city hall.

Vendor booth space is $10 for the day, or $15 for those who need electricity. Vendor forms are available online at www.goodmanmo.net and at city hall.

This year’s event has several main draws, including free food, four bouncy houses and two bouncy obstacle courses for the youngsters, bingo to support the Goodman Baseball and Softball Program, a cow drop, a petting zoo, a 50/50 pot and a pie auction at 1 p.m. that day.

Those who attend also will have the chance to participate in a quilt auction, play games and win door prizes.

Last year’s event — the first of its kind — brought in 2,000 people, officials said.

The Ozark Orchard Festival was launched to offer family fun and as a way for folks to celebrate their heritage. The area was known for its extensive apple industry in past years.

The next planning meeting will take place at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 7.

For information, or to volunteer, call City Hall at 417-364-7316.

Greg Richmond

Goodman Mayor