PROMOTION
Ozark
YOUR 2019 GUIDE
SHOP TILL YOU DROP AT
FINLEY FARMS: WHAT’S NOW
OZARK’S HISTORIC
THESE LOCAL BOUTIQUES
AND WHAT’S NEXT?
DOWNTOWN RENOVATION
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P. 7
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PROMOTION City of Ozark 205 N. 1st Street, Ozark, MO 65721 417-581-2407 RICK GARDNER Mayor | rgardner@kw.com STEVE CHILDERS City Administrator | schilders@ozarkmissouri.org SAMANTHA PAYNE Parks & Rec Director, Public Information Officer | spayne@ozarkmissouri.com
Ozark Chamber of Commerce 1471 W. South Street, Ozark, MO 65721 417-581-6139 ANNA EVANS Executive Director | anna@ozarkchamber.com
The Finley River, a tributary of the James River, is one of Ozark’s main attractions, playing host to many of the festivals and water activities in the area.
WELCOME TO Ozark STEVE CHILDERS
LOGAN AGUIRRE President & Associate Publisher | logan@417mag.com GARY WHITAKER Publisher | gary@417mag.com JOAN WHITAKER VP of Finance | joan@417mag.com Photos courtesy Ozark Chamber of Commerce; by Brandon Alms; Cover photo by Brandon Alms
CITY ADMINISTRATOR
“Making Ozark Better Every Day” is the City of Ozark’s mission statement, and I can say with confidence we are making that happen. New residents and businesses are moving to our community to live, work, shop, play and be a part of something special. I am extremely excited about featuring the City of Ozark and trust it will take you where you want to go in our growing community. I look forward to continuing the momentum we have built here in Ozark as a great place to be, and can’t wait to implement many more positive projects that will enhance our quality of life and amenities even more for both our citizens and visitors.
MEGAN JOHNSON VP of Operations | mjohnson@417mag.com AMMIE SCOTT VP of Strategy | ascott@417mag.com
ANNA EVANS
CHAMBER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
On behalf of the Ozark Chamber of Commerce, welcome! We are thrilled to showcase Ozark’s many opportunities for entertainment, outdoor adventure and more. Whether you’re new to town or a longtime resident, I encourage you to visit an Ozark business or attraction for the first time. You may find that your favorite event, restaurant, boutique, service provider or weekend hangout is right here in your own backyard. Of course, the Ozark Chamber is always available to connect you with the resources and information you need. Please let us know if we can be of assistance as you experience Ozark. We look forward to seeing you!
KATIE POLLOCK ESTES Editorial Director | editor@417mag.com HALEY DARNELL Editor | haley@417mag.com SARAH PATTON Art Director | sarah@417mag.com BRANDON ALMS Senior Photographer & Designer | brandon@417mag.com SARA GENSLER Editorial Designer | sgensler@417mag.com
RICK GARDNER
MAYOR
Thank you for reading this special Ozark Community Guide and checking out Ozark, the 417 area’s charming river city to the south. Welcome to the home of the Historic Downtown River District, Sertoma Duck Race Festival at the Finley River Park, the area’s only Hot Air Balloon Glow and soonto-be Ozark Mill at Finley Farms. When you visit in person, you’ll want to see and experience our unique restaurants, shops, events and small town charm. We look forward to seeing you soon.
AD DESIGN Elisabeth Behnke, Linda Huynh, Kylie Green, Christy Howell CLIENT COORDINATORS Brittni Bynum, Katie Wilson, Gabby Jagears SALES Jamie Wightman, Chelsea Warren CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & EDITORS Lucie Amberg, Ettie Berneking, Lillian Stone CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brandon Alms, White Pine Photography, Travis Howard
Whitaker Publishing 2111 S. Eastgate Ave., Springfield, MO 65809 | 417-883-7417 Fax 417-889-7417
KEEP IN
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CITY OF OZARK
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
OZARKMISSOURI.COM OZARKMO
OZARKCHAMBER.COM OZARKCHAMBEROFCOMMERCE
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120 N. 2ND AVE., A OZARK 417-731-4200 | MARTIN-WALL.COM *The choice of a lawyer is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising.
Photos courtesy Ozark Chamber of Commerce; by Brandon Alms, Travis Howard
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When family matters become legal matters.
PROMOTION
MAKE IT a day FAMILY OUTING
GIRLS’ TRIP
DATE NIGHT
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
3 P.M.: MARQUEE SUITES AT B&B THEATRE
11 A.M.: OZARK MOUNTAIN TRADING CO.
Burn off some energy at the center’s pool, rock wall and basketball gym. (Day passes and membership options are available.)
Take in the newest flick with seat-side service. You can even share a root beer float—just like old-school movie sweethearts.
Ready for a day on the water? Splurge on a kayak and all the accessories before heading down to the river for an afternoon float.
2 P.M.: STACEY’S SWEETS
5 P.M.: THE FINLEY
Time for a sugar break! Little eyes will love this display of cupcakes, lemon squares and ooey gooey butter bars.
Start the night off with cocktails in the basement speakeasy of this remodeled church building. The renovated sanctuary also features fine dining and a lower level for smaller private events.
11 A.M.: THE OC
Ozark Community Center, 1530 W. Jackson St., 417-581-7002, ozarkmissouri.com
620 N. 25th St., 417-485-4077, bbtheatres.com
101 N. Second St., 417-581-0525, staceys-sweets.yolasite.com
3 P.M.: GRUBAUGH PARK DISC GOLF COURSE 1101 N. 10th Ave., 417-581-7002 ozarkmissouri.com
Get outside and engage in some low-key competition at the park’s disc golf course. Just remember to bring your own discs!
Photos courtesy Ozark Chamber of Commerce; by Brandon Alms, Travis Howard
Four itineraries to tailor your Ozark experience. Lucie Amberg
206 E. Elm St., 417-582-1912, facebook.com/thefinleyozark
NOON: SPRING CREEK TEA ROOM
107 S. Third St., 417-582-1331, facebook.com/ springcreektearoom Meet for a classic ladies’ lunch (think chicken salad and freshbaked cake) at this charming café tucked inside the Spring Creek antique mart.
2 P.M.: ANTIQUING AND BOUTIQUING AROUND OZARK 206 E Brick St., 417-551-4847 and 202 East Church St., 417-860-9463
Shop the latest trends at local favorites like Torn Boutique on East Brick Street. Then hunt for hidden treasures at Church Street Antiques And More.
5 P.M.: COFFEE SHOP AT ROCCO’S PIZZA
1487 W. South St., 417-551-9026, facebook.com/ roccospizzaofozark
7 P.M.: U.S. BASEBALL
4400 N. 19th St., 417-581-1151, theusbaseball.com Spend the evening at the ballpark, enjoying ice cream as you cheer on the Drury University Panthers, some of Missouri’s top high school teams or the Show Me Collegiate Summer Baseball League, a collection of college standouts from across the country.
4381 Selmore Road, 417-485-3219, ozarkmtc.com
Bask in all your shopping success with a well-timed boost from custom lattes, cappuccinos or mocktails made with Red Bull.
6 P.M.: HEATHER HILL FARMS
5255 N. 17th St., 417-581-7665, heatherhillfarms.com Unwind as you sample cheese and wine, or order a glass as you browse gourmet snacks. Feeling inspired? Create a gift basket for the guy waiting back home.
6:30 P.M.: SALVATORE’S FRESH RISTORANTE 1932 W. Retail Lane, 417-485-3838 salvatoresfresh.com
Make like Lady and the Tramp as you flirt over Italian favorites like the handmade pasta and fresh Tuscan-style bread.
8 P.M.: THE VINEYARD MARKET
1759 W. State Highway J, 417-882-0399, thevineyardmarket.com
Top the evening off with a Napainspired charcuterie board as you sip on wine slushies. Then browse the broad selection of cigars in the fully stocked humidor.
NOON: BLACK COW MEATS
1906 Selmore Road, 417-4856328, blackcowmeatshop.com You can’t forget lunch! Load up the cooler with farm-raised steaks, perfect for grilling at the park. Add locally made salsa or pickles to your picnic while you’re here.
1 P.M.: RENT FISHING POLES AND SUPPLIES
Christian County Library: Ozark Branch 1005 N. Fourth Ave., 417-5812432, christiancountylibrary.org On your way to the river, check out fishing poles and tackle boxes from the library to round out all the gear you’ll need for a relaxing day on the water.
1:30 P.M.: FINLEY RIVER PARK
891 N. Riverside Road, 417-581-7002, ozarkmissouri.com Grill out near the picnic pavilion then enjoy a breezy afternoon of floating and fishing on the river. End the day with a leisurely loop around the park on the scenic Greenway Trail. 2019 OZARK COMMUNITY GUIDE
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Find clothes, gifts and home goods all in Ozark’s shopping district | Lucie Amberg
LITTLE BLUEBIRD
TWO SAVED SISTERS
611 N. 21st St., 417-731-7108 What you’ll find: A one-stop shop for home improvement tools and supplies, housewares, horse and pet needs, Western wear and boots.
2004 W. Evangel St., 417-485-0614 What you’ll find: Dozens of booths containing home décor and lots of handmade items, such as pottery, handbags, kitchen accessories and artwork.
103 E. Church St., 417-731-4334 What you’ll find: Cute, casual women’s clothing, jewelry and accessories with faith-inspired flavor. A wide selection of affordable jeans and trendy graphic tees are also available.
COTTON BOLL COTTAGE
NEAT REPEATS
THE AVANT GARDE’N
1753 W. James River Road, 417-731-4096 What you’ll find: Inviting home décor with a cottage garden flair, including botanical prints, patio accessories and a large selection of so-realyou’ll-smell-them artificial flowers.
1944 W. Retail Lane, 417-485-4999 What you’ll find: Neatly arranged resale items, including clothing, board games, kitchen appliances, books, housewares and quilts. All proceeds benefit the Freedom’s Rest Family Violence Center.
140 N. 20th St., 417-485-4857 What you’ll find: Upscale collection of estate furniture, home décor, antiques and eclectic tableware pieces, including vintage china and hard-to-find glass items, like complete punch bowl sets.
HUCKABELLA
NEST INTERIORS + DESIGN
MITCHUM JEWELERS
101 S. Third St., 417-731-4171 What you’ll find: A variety of vendors offers mix-and-matchable women’s separates and accessories that can be dressed up or down.
5221 N. 17th St., 417-485-4044 What you’ll find: Furniture pieces and interior accents with a chic modern farmhouse feel, including elegant table linens, tableware and gift items.
2431 W. Jackson St., 417-581-2415 What you’ll find: A high-end selection of diamond & gemstone jewelry, including engagement rings, wedding bands, watches and custom pieces.
FAMILY CENTER FARM & HOME
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THE HOME BREWERY 1967 W. Boat St., 417-581-0963 What you’ll find: Everything you could possibly need to master making beer, wine, soda, mead, cider and cheese right in your own home.
Photo courtesy Ozark Chamber of Commerce
SHOP Ozark
PROMOTION
PROMOTION
PROSCIUTTO & FIG LANGOS
LOCAL Along with all of the Midwestern favorites, Ozark is home to a wealth of international flavors. Try the best of both worlds with these seven dishes. Ettie Berneking Photos by Brandon Alms
Photo courtesy Ozark Chamber of Commerce
eats
Little Danube, 519 N. 21st St., 417-581-0508 The he prosciutto and fig lángos ángos is not your traditional pie. Creamy whipped ricotta cheese is spread over still-warm fried pizza dough and topped with prosciutto, chopped figs and dates and a drizzle of linden flower honey for a salty sweet treat.
GRILLED AGED FILET
The Finley, 296 E. Elm St., 417-582-1912 This fine dining joint is all about the classics, which means steak. Each steak is dry-aged for 28 days before being seared on the grill. Insider tip: Pair each bite of aged filet with a forkful of Boursin mashed potatoes.
STUFFED RAVIOLI
Salvatore’s Fresh Ristorante Italiano, 1932 W. Retail Lane, 417-485-3838 If you’re avoiding carbs, you might skip a visit to Salvatore’s. But if you
ANY SLICE OF CAKE
are in the mood for an indulgent and filling meal, then swing by and order the plump stuffed ravioli.
PORK TAMALES
IIguana Roja Restaurante, 107 W. Church St., 417-485-8585 Don’t miss the homemade pork tamales. Two come in each order and are doused with a house-made salsa verde and a refreshing cilantro-lime crema that balances out the rich, tender pork stuffed inside each bundle.
FRIED CHICKEN
Rosie Jo’s Cafe, 1711 S. 15th St., 417-581-6047 Take your pick of homemade pies, thick slices of meatloaf, catfish and patty melts. For a meal that might require a nap afterward, order the fried chicken. The peppery homemade batter pairs well with the sweet soft serve ice cream that comes with each entree.
Spring Creek Tea Room, 107 S. Third St., 417-582-1331 The classic tea room fare goes great with antique shopping, but the real draw is the desserts. Decadent slices of homemade pies and cakes fill the bakery case and change daily. BISCUITWICH Market House Cafe and Bake Shop, 113 N. Second St., 417-551-4370 The best way to sample a little bit of everything is to wrap your hands around the biscuitwich. A fluffy homemade biscuit sandwiches a smaller version of the cafe’s fluffy cheddar omelet and your choice of either crispy bacon or savory sausage.
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600 N. 3RD STREET, OZARK | 417-581-3400 | OZARK@FORUMDENTAL.COM
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OZARK COMMUNITY GUIDE 2019
Photos courtesy Ozark Chamber of Commerce, Megan Morris
Smiles for all ages!
PROMOTION
The main attraction on this picturesque property will be the historic Ozark Mill, a functioning grain mill that opens for tours later this year.
PRESERVING our past Finley Farms, the newest project from the Morris family, kicks off this year. | Lillian Stone
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ince 1883, the historic Ozark Mill has been a landmark for generations of Ozark residents. Purchased by Bass Pro Shops’ Johnny Morris in the ’90s, the property will soon join Big Cedar Lodge, Top of the Rock and Wonders of Wildlife as part of the Morris family legacy. The concept: Finley Farms, a spacious new development that Morris’s daughter, Megan Morris, is spearheading. While the 40-acre project will take several years to come to fruition, developers are already making progress.
Photos courtesy Ozark Chamber of Commerce, Megan Morris
WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW The Ozark Mill will take center stage as the main project, reopening later this year as a functioning grain mill open for tours. For Morris, the mill is more than a tourist attraction: It’s a chapter in her family’s story. “My great-grandfather actually lived just up the road from the old mill,” Megan says. “It’s an honor to be able to preserve the role of the mill in Ozark’s history.” Her great-grandfather was also a career miller in nearby Willard, making this project particularly special.
Other attractions in the pro ect s first phase of development include a chapel with both public and private access for guests. Additionally, the Ozark Farmers Market has relocated to the southwest corner of the site. Next to the market is The Workshop, a space that will feature a coffee shop, an urban farm and classes taught by local artisans specializing in traditional skills like seed starting and canning. “It’s all about getting people to slow down,” Megan says, pointing out that some of her favorite childhood memories involved gardening, cooking and antiquing in Ozark with her mom.
WHAT’S NEXT
The restoration of the Ozark Mill at Finley Farms has been in the works since the 1990s.
Phase two of the project is slated to begin in 2020 and includes several attractions: a full-service restaurant that overlooks the Finley River inside the historic mill; a speakeasy-style bar called The Garrison; several private event spaces within and around the mill; nature trails with direct river access and restoration of the historic Riverside Bridge, built in 1906. The latter is a testament to Megan’s commitment to Ozark history. “It’s a
blend of progress and preservation,” Megan says, adding that she currently serves as vice president of the Historic River District, an organization that’s devoted to building community and celebrating the rich history of Ozark. “That’s one of the great things about working on this project with my dad. He represents the heritage, and I’m working on preserving that for the next generation.”
PROJECT PHASES
1
• • • •
Slated to open summer/fall 2019 Ozark Mill reopening as a functioning grain mill Chapel with both public and private access Ozark Farmers Market relocating to the southwest corner of the site • The Workshop, a space including a coffee shop, an urban farm and public classes taught by local artisans
2
• Slated to open 2020 • A full-service restaurant that overlooks the Finley River (name to be determined) • The Garrison, a speakeasy-style bar • Nature trails with direct river access • Restoration of the historic Riverside Bridge, built in 1906
3
• Details tentative • Boutique cottages for guest rental • Boathouse with direct waterfront access
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PROMOTION
The renovation of the Ozark square included preserving the historic charm of the buildings, like this storefront on Main Street.
A Work in Progress
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OZARK COMMUNITY GUIDE 2019
Branch had actually been involved with another chapter of Main Street America when he and his wife lived in San Diego. Main Street America helps bring economic vitality back to historic streets in part through grant funding. One day, Branch and Dowdy were venting about the decrepit conditions of the square when Branch mentioned his previous experience with Main Street America. “That’s how it all began,” Branch says. “We started hammering out the details, picked who we wanted on the board and talked about what our goals were.”
CHARGING FORWARD Armed with a community development block grant, the organization and Branch, one of the founding members and President of Ozark Main Street, teamed up with the city to begin reviving the square. It was an ambitious project to say the least, and it’s one that Dowdy says is still ongoing, “We’re doing it in phases,” she says. In 1999, phase 1 was all about improving the infrastructure and visual aspects of the s uare. The city fi ed sewers and sidewalks, planted landscaping and added lighting “The city was doing the things you don’t see and you don’t care about until it backs up,” Dowdy says. While the city was hard at work, other members of
MARKET BOUND Since launching in 2012, the Ozark Farmers Market has had two homes— the Ozark square and then The OC. Now, finally, the OFM is getting a more permanent abode at Finley Farms. Each Thursday, May through September from 3 to 7 p.m., shoppers can swing by Finley Farms and find OFM vendors, farmers and artisans in full swing.
Photos courtesy Ozark Chamber of Commerce; Ozark Farmers Market
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on’t be fooled. The Ozark square has not always been this charming. Those well-kept storefronts have not always been painted and lacquered with love. The sidewalks have not always been welcoming and welllit. Just ask Katherine Dowdy and Chuck Branch. Today, Dowdy and Branch both serve on the advisory committee for Ozark’s Historic River District, but back in 1999, they were helping to spearhead an ambitious revitalization of the historic Ozark square: the Ozark Main Street project. “It looked dreadful,” Dowdy says. Sidewalks were cracked and overrun with weeds. The vacancy rate was well over 80 percent, and most of the square’s historic charm was boarded up and covered over. “Oh my,” Dowdy says. “The sidewalks were falling apart. It was pretty depressing, and it would have been worse if the courthouse hadn’t been here.” The square was in such poor condition that at one point it had even been deemed blighted by the city and the state. But instead of leaving the old square for dead and setting sights on new development opportunities, Dowdy and a posse of determined Ozark residents decided to pour a healthy dose of TLC and money back into the square in hopes of restoring its former glory.
Photos courtesy Ozark Chamber of Commerce, The Finley; by White Pine Photography
Restoring the historic Ozark square has been a labor of love, and it’s far from over. A new effort from the Historic River District is underway to extend the downtown footprint. | Ettie Berneking
PROMOTION
Photos courtesy Ozark Chamber of Commerce, The Finley; by White Pine Photography
Photos courtesy Ozark Chamber of Commerce; Ozark Farmers Market
After almost 100 years since the square’s origin, renovation efforts were able to recover the character and beauty of the Ozark downtown and square.
Ozark Main Street were busy rounding up private investment to continue the momentum. They focused first on approaching property owners with buildings on the square. “It wasn’t easy getting business owners involved,” Dowdy says. “The hardest part was convincing them that the investment would come back to them.” With studies in-hand, owdy preached the benefits of investing in available structures and how saving the outdated and neglected buildings on the square offered more savings than simply breaking ground elsewhere and erecting new buildings. Somehow, it worked. Within four years, the square started to shed its grimy outer layer and reveal its historic character. In some cases, all it took was removing the historically inappropriate building materials encasing a storefront. “You start ripping the junk off, and wow, owdy says. ook at what s there It was exciting because you didn’t have to recreate; you just had to reveal it.”
HEADED INTO PHASE 2 Now, almost two decades later, the square is in the middle of the next phase of revitalization, this time with the Historic River District and Andrea Flores at the helm. That doesn’t mean Dowdy and Branch have abandoned the cause though. In fact, most of the members currently serving on the advisory committee of the Historic River District were the same people knocking on doors and encouraging business owners to clean up their storefronts more than years ago. The biggest difference with this new phase of development is the footprint. As its name suggests, the Historic River District is
focused on uniting downtown with the surrounding area including Finley River Park, the Finley River itself and the up-and-coming Finley Farms—a new 40-acre development being spearheaded by Johnny Morris and his daughter Megan Morris. This area is known as Ozark’s central business district. If the square is the heart of Ozark’s historic charm and attraction, then the surrounding central business district forms the arteries that feed into it. Joining the two areas has been a goal Dowdy says the city has worked toward for years. “It was always on the books,” she says. “It just wasn’t within their budget. We always said, this is next, this is coming.” As Dowdy explains, this new project phase is simply a fulfillment of that pledge to spur economic development, and that’s something that Branch is especially excited about.
FIT TO PARTY With historic charm and smalltown ambiance to spare, the Ozark square is ready to welcome private events and celebrations.
SPURRING GROWTH “You can talk to a lot of people in Ozark, and some don’t realize we have a square,” Branch says. “A lot of people go to work, come home at night and don’t get out. To fi that, Branch is hopeful this new revitalization phase will bring in more events and evening attractions. “Aesthetically, it looks great,” he says. “Now we need to bring people back down and help the businesses on the square.” In order to grow the footprint of the central business district, Flores and the team are working to draw in a mix of retail and restaurant options to the area. “We want people living downtown to be able to eat tacos, get a cocktail and have coffee in the morning,” Dowdy says. But that takes investment. Luckily, the Historic River District has already landed some serious investors, including the Morris family. For more info on the investment the Morris family is making in Ozark, turn to p. 7. Uncovering that historic fabric has been the goal of Dowdy and the rest of the advisory board for nearly two decades, and they now get to see it move into phase two.
In 2018, Venue on Brick unveiled a lovingly executed restoration to the century-old Ford garage. The exposed brick walls, full-service bar and cascade of natural light have already attracted corporate events and weddings. A few blocks away is The Finley. The remodeled church now features fine dining, a speakeasy and private meeting spaces.
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PROMOTION
MAKING plans OZARK FARMERS MARKET May–September, every Thursday, 3–7 p.m., business.ozarkchamber.com/events/calendar Originally a Main Street event, the farmers market has recently taken up residency inside Finley Farms, an agritourism development that includes the Ozark Mill. Along with the revival of the Market Music Program, farmers, food trucks, bakers and artisans are all part of the weekly event that runs throughout the peak harvest season.
SERTOMA DUCK RACE FESTIVAL June, facebook.com/sertomaduckrace Carnival rides, live music, a Duck Waddle 5K and a pie-eating contest are only the beginning of this two-day festival that all lead up to the main event: the Rubber Duck Race. On-site is the Finley River Days event, sponsored by Bass Pro Shop’s Outdoor Days, where activities like canoeing, paddleboarding and archery help bring conservation awareness to the area. The fun-filled weekend caps off with the largest firework display in Christian County. Free admission, $5 for parking
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Prep your calendars for these fun annual events that call Ozark home. | Haley Darnell
ANNUAL CHILDREN’S SMILE CENTER HOT AIR BALLOON GLOW June, childrenssmilecenter.org Drawing in crowds by the thousands, this can’tmiss event lights up the evening sky as hot air balloons from all over the region come together to put on a stunning show. Although the balloons never take flight, the glow allows for visitors to get an up-close experience, meet the pilots and take advantage of all the photo opportunities. Free admission, $5 for parking
ANNUAL OZARK ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW October, ozarkcraftfair.com Since 1974, the Ozark Utopia Club has hosted the Ozark Arts and Crafts Show to help children and families in need through vendor’s donations to local charities. Now with over 350 vendors providing unique and handmade arts and crafts, and dozens of food booths to keep you well-fed, the event has become a fall favorite for thousands. Free admission
THE OZARK CHRISTMAS PARADE November, business.ozarkchamber.com/ events/calendar An Ozark tradition for almost 60 years, the Ozark Christmas Parade is always held on the Saturday before Thanksgiving to help kick off the holiday season. Festivities surrounding the parade include a visit with Santa, a Christmas village downtown, a festive movie on the lawn and lots of lights to put you in the holiday spirit. Free admission
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS OF THE OZARKS November–December, ozarkmissouri.com Stir up a bit of nostalgia by taking in some twinkly Christmas lights from the comfort of your car. Each year, the Finley River Park lights up for the season beginning in November and keeps the holiday cheer flowing all the way into the new year. Don’t forget the hot cocoa and your favorite Christmas music to fully embrace the joy of the mile-long trail of lights. Free admission
PROMOTION
NATURAL Splendor Photo courtesy Ozark Chamber of Commerce
Boasting thousands of years of history, Smallin Civil War Cave is one of Ozark’s most cherished natural resources. | Lillian Stone
C
enturies of history live on just a few miles east of US-65. Smallin Civil War Cave boasts a rich legacy that was first documented by American adventurer Henry Rowe Schoolcraft in 1818. Archaeologists have found artifacts dating back to 9000 B.C. in Smallin Cave, a place generations of Native Americans have called home. More recently, the cave served as a hub for the Union army during the Civil War. Today, the cave is more than just a landmark—it’s a pillar of the Ozark community. Owners Kevin and Wanetta Bright offer yearround tours with special Civil War Lantern Tours in the fall and Solstice Tours in late December. Adventurous visitors can also enjoy Wild Tours: two-hour-long, off-trail spelunking sessions.
PLAN YOUR VISIT: Smallin Civil War Cave offers hour-long, half-mile guided tours. Trails are wheelchair- and stroller-friendly; however, off-trail Wild Tours are more demanding. This special trek leads guests through two feet of 54-degree water and rugged terrain with direct viewing access to bristly cave crayfish and blind cave salamanders. BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT: Smallin Cave is open year-round, but the interior of the cave hovers around a refreshing 60 degrees during those hot Missouri summers.
CONTACT 3575 N. Smallin Road, Ozark 417-551-4545 smallincave.com facebook.com/smallincave Open March–December with limited January and February hours Monday–Saturday 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday 1–5 p.m.
WHAT TO WEAR: Dress in lightweight and comfortable layers, and closed-toed shoes are a must for the hike.
Wedding and Private Event Venue 209 N 2nd St, Ozark, MO 65721 417.824.2097 venueonbrick@gmail.com www.venueonbrick.com Photo Credit: Grace Bunch Photography
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FAMILY FAMIL Y. FRIENDS. COMMUNITY COMMUNITY. Chuck Fugate We’re all in this together. State Farm® has a long tradition of being there. That's one reason why I'm proud to support Ozark and the many wonderful people and organizations that make this a great place to ® live. Ozark—It's Our Home Too! Here to help life go right.
417-582-1300 • 5349 N. 22nd St., Ozark
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OZARK COMMUNITY GUIDE 2019
B E YO N D B US I N ESS
John Widiger, Gentry Johnson and John Youngblood
A DEALERSHIP UNDER CONSTRUCTION Growing right along with Ozark
T
to invest in a thriving community that is experiencing he Youngblood Auto Group is thrilled to have a rapid growth. Youngblood appreciates that Ozark has home in Ozark! that small town feeling, but with all the amenities of Just like Ozark is growing, Youngblood Chrysler being in a metropolitan area, and they Dodge Jeep Ram and Pre-Owned in look forward to supporting that as they Ozark is growing as well, with a new full bring Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram and service repair center and showroom “We know that pre-owned vehicles along with facilities under construction now. You may have Ozark residents to service them to town. seen their dealership being built from the have high They’ve been locally owned and ground up, just across Highway 65 from expectations, operated for 41 years, doing whatever James River Church. Soon, they’ll be cutting and we enjoy is needed to exceed customers’ ribbons and welcoming customers! Look the challenge of expectations and to provide a personal for the finished result July 31, 2019! exceeding those experience that simply can’t be As Ozark builds on the exceptional standards.” found with other auto dealerships. beauty and spirit of the Midwest, Youngblood knows that Ozark residents Youngblood invites you to experience the have high expectations, and they enjoy the challenge outdoors for yourself in a new Jeep. Their incredible of exceeding those standards as they demonstrate Jeep showroom includes a vast inventory that is sure to their commitment to you and to excellence! suit your lifestyle, plus your sense of adventure. A new Youngblood dealership in Ozark means more jobs, more revenue for the city, more convenience and more options for its residents. The team is proud
Youngblood Auto Group
6151 N 21st St, Ozark - Across 65 from James River Church
866-927-8082
YoungbloodAuto.com
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