Welcome to Cameron

Welcome to Cameron

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

If you have been around our town this year, you probably noticed the ongoing construction. We’ve been working on exciting new projects, such as the opening of a New Performing Arts Center in March at the High School.

But that’s not all! Our city also recently opened a new Park complex this spring and a stunning pool just last year. We have plans to host ball tournaments and soccer tournaments, with phase 2 of the development scheduled to begin this year. Our city is growing rapidly to meet the needs of our expanding community.

One of the things that sets Cameron apart is the genuine and kind-hearted people who reside here. Whether you are a resident or just visiting, you can rely on us to lend a helping hand when needed.

There are countless reasons why people choose to call Cameron home. One of the main attractions is our exceptional school system. In September, our high school hosts an annual March Fest where up to 17 area school bands and color guards come to compete, where our community volunteers step up to make sure this large Festival is smooth running. With the addition of our new Performing Arts Building, the school also plans to host large musical festivals and performances from nationally recognized symphonies. We also have an excellent athletic program where we’ve been State bound in football, basketball and wrestling.

Outdoor enthusiasts will be

pleased to know that we have four reservoirs, offering great fishing opportunities. One of these reservoirs even boasts a 3.3 mile paved trail, perfect for leisurely walks.

Throughout the year, Cameron hosts various vibrant festivals, ranging from the festive St. Patrick’s celebration to the 4th of July Celebration to an enchanting Christmas parade. Not to be missed is the Balloon Fest, which has quickly become a beloved tradition. For those who love history, our active Historical Society hosts an annual cemetery tour that delights our community every October. Our city takes pride in providing excellent healthcare services. We have a great regional hospital that ensures the well-being of our residents. Moreover, Cameron is home to the Missouri Veterans Home that cares for 170 veterans. In addition to that, a new VA clinic recently opened to expand our support for veterans.

If you’re a lover of knowledge and literature, you’ll be delighted to know that Cameron boasts the best library in Northwest Missouri. From programs for toddlers to genealogy resources, our library has it all. During the summer, the library sponsors enjoyable activities for families such as “Movie in the Park.”

Lastly, Cameron is renowned for being a safe and friendly place to raise a family. Our close-knit community

and strong sense of camaraderie create an environment where everyone feels welcome and secure.

In conclusion, Cameron offers a blend of attractions, community spirit, and natural beauty that make it an ideal place for both visitors and new residents. From exceptional schools and recreational opportunities to vibrant festivals and caring institutions, Cameron truly has something for everyone.

Cameron Fire Department

“Committed to serving the community in a professional manner while preserving life and property.”

Cameron

In 1854, a group of settlers led by Samuel McCorkle platted the four-block town of Somerville near what is now I-35 and the DeKalbClinton County line astride the proposed route of the Hannibal-to-St. Joseph railroad. But the grade at Somerville was deemed too steep and trains, they learned, could not stop there. So, using teams of oxen, these pioneers dragged the three buildings that comprised the town of Somerville a mile or so southwest. In 1855, they laid out a new town and changed the name to Cameron, in honor of Mr. McCorkle’s wife Malinda Cameron.

Cameron also has a rich railroad history, dating back to 1858, when the first railroad to cross Missouri

The Drug Store

was completed, with a stop in Cameron, on the sight of the current Depot Museum. The railroad was a boon to the agricultural town, giving local farmers a place to import and export livestock and farm produce. In 1859 the first passenger train crossed the state from Hannibal to St. Joseph and by 1860 Trains, using locomotives like the one seen on our new downtown mural, were carrying the U.S. Mail to the Pony Express in St. Joseph. Local businesses, churches, schools and civic groups soon formed giving the community its unique personality. Cameron’s place as a leader in commerce and transportation had been created. The Hannibal and St. Joseph railroad was like

is a city of pride in its history and its community

a superhighway. VIPs on their way to or from the wild west rode the rails through our town. Some names you might recognize are Abraham Lincoln, who passed through here in 1859. John Wilkes Booth stopped here during a snow storm while touring with a dramatic group doing shows in the west. In the fall of 1879, President Rutherford B. Hayes, his wife and the famous General William Tecumseh Sherman were greeted at the now famous “Junction Depot” when they passed through on their way back from Kansas. According to the Cameron Observer newspaper “The Presidential party arrived… and were received by sweet strains of music from the Cornet band and by cheers from the hundreds of people assembled”. The Cameron Cornet band later became the “Cameron Municipal Band”.

In 1871, the Rock Island Railroad came to town and gave Cameron a north to south route. The two railroads intersected and gave travelers a speedy route to all points of the compass. The town had now earned the name “Crossroads of the Nation”.

Although Cameron existed, it lacked an organized government until 1867, when it incorporated and was governed by a Board of Trustees. In 1882, Cameron adopted a Mayor-City Council form of government with Solomon Musser as its first mayor. His 14,000 square-foot Musser Mansion at Fourth and Chestnut with a 5-story tower became Cameron’s hallmark. By 1919, Cameron

adopted a new charter and became a Third Class City. In 1949, it adopted the City Manager government model with Edwin Allen, Jr. as its first city manager.

The City erected its first street lights in 1881, which consisted of nothing more than a few coal oil lamps atop posts along Third Street. Electricity arrived in 1890 with an intermittent power plant at Second and Main serving only Third Street through just two small wires. Power plant upgrades came in 1899 and 1924.

Public and private wells served the City until 1903, when the first City Water System was begun. By 1904, Cameron had its first reservoir and water tower. During the drought of 1936, the resourceful citizens piped water in from the Missouri River. During a similar shortage in the late 1980s, workers dammed Grindstone Creek and pumped water to Reservoir No. 3 before construction of the Grindstone Reservoir could be completed.

Beginning in 1903, sewage flowed into a giant septic tank in southeast Cameron, but a sewage treatment plant was completed in 1924 and upgraded in 1952. With growth spurred by two state prisons, voters in 1997 added a 3/8-cent sales tax to double sewer plant capacity.

Cameron’s park system was established as part of the original survey, when founder Samuel McCorkle donated land for a park in 1855 near the town’s center.

Two-time presidential candidate William Jennings Bryan delivered a speech at McCorkle Park in 1901. The park added a Firemen’s Memorial in the 1970s, which displays a 1928 Studebaker fire truck and other mementos. For three decades the Cameron Municipal Band performed weekly summer concerts atop the structure. In 2002 the Band completed the Thomas J. Price Pavilion in McCorkle Park to serve as the new band venue.

Traveling tent shows called Chautauqua appeared regularly in early Cameron. In 1892, Recreation Park was established on the old Southside Chautauqua grounds. A swimming pool was added in 1938 that was replaced by an Olympic-sized pool in 1982 and replaced again in We

2022 with a $4.7 million facility. The new aquatic center will include waterslides, a children’s aquatic play area and 7 lane swimming pool. Lighted tennis courts, picnic shelters, sand volleyball, playground equipment, and a disc golf course continue to host family and community events.

Cameron’s largest park is also its least known. Memorial Park was established in 1946 as a 150-acre memorial to veterans, many who played golf. A golf course quickly occupied park ground as later did Cameron High School, Cameron Middle School and a ball field.

In 1990, the Veterans Memorial was built to honor veterans with tablets commemorating the nation’s four major conflicts. The memorial was renovated in 2011 and is the site of the Veterans Tribute program on July 4 each year.

Although government and music may not always go together, in Cameron they do. In 1866, the Cameron Coronet Band began a tradition which voters made permanent in 1929 by passing a band tax. The Cameron Municipal Band remains one of the few tax-supported city bands in the nation.

In 1996, the City added a new Public Safety Building housing fire, police, highway patrol, and ambulance services. That same year a new 4,000-foot runway was

built at the Memorial Airport. In 2001, city staff moved in to a new barrel-vaulted City Hall, which was built without a tax increase. The new building was constructed on the old City Hall site, so during construction, a temporary City Hall operated from a downtown storefront for a year. The adjacent Public Works Building gave the city street and water-sewer departments a new facility as well.

In 2016, Cameron chose to adorn one of its building walls with a mural to commemorate the rich agriculture and railroad history on Walnut Street.

Cameron continues to take pride in its community

as it adds new amenities and works to preserve the overall look of the city by the demolition of old houses, the improvement of city streets and roadways. In 2017, the city acquired one new pumper truck for the Fire Department and in 2018 they received a new aerial truck. Improvements to the Public Safety Building were done in 2018, as well. In 2017, the addition of a pedestrian walk over bridge at the dam was added at Sunrise Lake, bringing the city one step closer to joining the two ends of the walking trail. In 2018, a new dog park opened in Beaver Park for large and small dogs alike. In 2021, Sunrise Lake saw the addition of a covered fishing dock.

For a more complete history of the railroad, band and the city of Cameron itself, visitors, residents and newcomers alike are all encouraged to visit the Depot Museum at 202 N. Walnut. For more information on the city amenities, please visit www.cameron-mo.com.

Area Attractions around Cameron include: CameronVeteransMemorialGolfCourse

Cameron Veteran’s Memorial Golf Club boasts an 18-hole USGA rated golf course with the following tee box yardage totals: Black (5809), White (5477), and Gold (4749). Fairways with 100, 150, and 200 yardage markers will appeal to all levels of play. The undulating Bentgrass

Greens will have you stepping back for a second look. From beginning golfers to seasoned sticks, everyone will have a great time on the Cameron Veteran’s Memorial Golf Club course!

SunriseLakeWalking Trail

The Cameron Trails is 1.3 mile walking, running, biking trail that overlooks the lake on the North and East shorelines between

McElwain and Summit Road. The trail meets accessibility standards for Federal Outdoor Developed Areas and has ADA parking at the trailhead. Keep an eye open for heron, bald eagle, deer and other assorted wildlife.

SunriseLake

This 35-acre lake was constructed in the 1930s as a water supply for Cameron. The lake is surrounded by 63 acres of forest which provides a great setting for picnicking, nature viewing, bird watching and hiking. There is a gravel parking lot and boat ramp located on the north side off Summit Road. ADA parking is located on the south side off McElwain Drive. Recently a new ADA fishing dock with awning and seating was added. Sunrise

Lake, along with Century and Eagle Lake, provides fishing opportunities for any skill angler to catch largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and channel catfish.

WallaceStatePark

Wallace State Park is an island of serenity. Visitors can fish in the park’s 6-acre lake, Lake Allaman, or hike one of four scenic trails with benches along the way for relaxing. Picnic sites that are shaded by trees are scattered throughout and the family-oriented campground includes modern restrooms and hot showers. The park’s peaceful campgrounds include both basic and electric

campsites. Walk-in campsites are available for those seeking more seclusion. There is also a special-use camping area for youth groups.

PonyExpressLakeConservationArea

Located just 6 miles West of Cameron off Highway 33 Pony Express Conservation Area hosts a variety of activities for any outdoor enthusiast. Activities include camping, hiking trails, bird watching, hunting, fishing and boating. There are areas for primitive camping, along with boat ramps, fishing docks and privies. The conservation area is closed from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. except for authorized camping, fishing and hunting activities. The 240 acre Pony Express Lake and 45 acre Buffalo Bill Lake, and several fishing ponds offer anglers great opportunities to catch the big one; including black bass, catfish and crappie.

Dear Reader, Welcome to the Cameron R-I School District! The Board of Education, administration, and staff of the Cameron R-I School District are eager to welcome you and become educational partners as we fulfill our vision: “A School of Excellence”.

The Cameron R-I School District is made up of four school buildings: Parkview Elementary (grades PK-2), Cameron Intermediate School (grades 3-5), Cameron Veterans Middle School (grades 6-8) and Cameron High School (grades 9-12).

We have high expectations for our students. The District continues to create an academic environment where every student can achieve beyond their potential. The Cameron R-I School District strives to do more than merely offer a quality education; the District “ensures” an excellent education.

All four of our school buildings are Professional Learning Communities (PLC) where student learning is

the focus. The staff of the Cameron R-I School District has worked very hard to modify their grading, teaching, and communication with each other to assist all students in the learning process.

In August of 2023 high school students will be welcomed by many facility improvements. These include a new vocational center (FACS and Ag), new high school science classrooms and a new state of the art performing arts center. In addition, we added a mezzanine/weight room area new offices and new wrestling room. We are very excited about the opportunities that our new facilities will provide our students and staff to ensure we are offering our students the best opportunities for future success.

The district greatly appreciates the support of our community and wants to thank all of its patrons, as well as new residents and visitors. I encourage you to visit our schools and get involved in both the school district and the community!

Sincerely,

Dr. Matt Robinson, Superintendent of Schools Cameron R-I School District

Cameron School District

ParkviewElementarySchool

The mission of the Cameron R-1 School District is to provide all students the best educational opportunities possible in a positive and safe environment. This begins at Parkview Elementary, with a vision of building a foundation together for lifelong successful learners. Students Kindergarten through second grade enjoy spacious rooms, two playgrounds, and two gyms. In 2017, Angela Ormsby was hired as the new Parkview Elementary School Principal.

CameronIntermediateSchool

The Cameron Intermediate School accommodates students in third, fourth, and fifth grades. Like all Cameron schools, CIS continues to be a Professional Learning Community dedicated to student learning, collaboration, and achievement. A new playground was constructed a few years ago on the North end of the school. 2022 welcomed new Principal, Toni Cox who will collaborate with the teachers and ancillary staff to bring a top notch learning experience to all students.

CameronVeteransMiddleSchool

The 2022 school year welcomed new Cameron Veterans Middle School Principal, Jove Stickel. “Learning for life... every student, every teacher, every day” is their mission statement. This school accommodates students in grades six through eight. A bond issue was passed in 2014 that allowed the district to construct the new middle school, achieving a more balanced school district. The land was generously donated through Cameron’s strong veteran community.

CameronHighSchool

Providing students with opportunities to achieve academic excellence is Cameron High School Principal, Jayson Erdman. The staff continues to build on the success they have experienced the last several years. CHS implemented Project Lead the Way and now offers two tracts for students: Medical and Engineering. The school offers A+, dual credit, vocational, advanced placement, and a wide range of organizations and activities for students. 2023 also sees the completion of the new Performing Arts Center and FFA Building

Focus: Supporting Local Organizations including Rotary Youth Leadership Academy, High School Interact Club, Student Scholarships and Roadside Cleanup - Hwy 69 and the World Wide Eradication of Polio and Clean Water. For more info on the club, Contact Everett Ice at 816-632-7111

Cameron Lodge No. 2615

Mission Statement: Elks are Community. As Elks, we invest in ours and surrounding communities through programs that help children grow up healthy and drug free, meet the needs of our Veterans, those living in our local VA home and those who do not, and improve.

As Elks We: Support Patriotism | Educate our Youth | Encourage giving within our Communities | Care for our service men and women. “Elks Make great Things Happen!”

BENEVOLENT AND PROTECTIVE ORDER OF ELKS 9018 NE Hwy 69 | P.O. Box 132 | Cameron, MO 64429 816-632-7987 | cameronelks2615@outlook.com

Our therapeutic programs increases core muscle strength, improves balance and coordination, builds communication skills and spatial awareness while creating happy smiles. Keep the sunshine going by visiting us on facebook: facebook.com/ dreamcatchersmissouri and on the web at dreamcatchersmissouri.org

Rotary celebrates 100th anniversary

Members of the Cameron Rotary Club past and present gathered in the Old School of Cameron to celebrate the organization’s 100th anniversary.

As a throwback to their first meeting in 1923, dozens dined on fried chicken while celebrating the Rotary Club’s centennial anniversary last summer.

“During their first meeting, they served fried chicken. So, in honor of that, Cameron Market proudly brought us fried chicken. Probably not cooked in lard in a cast-iron skillet, but it’s healthier anyway,” Cameron Rotary Club President Everett Ice said.

See ROTARY page 23

clubs & organizations

Goal: To

Activities: Annual Easter Egg Hunt in Cameron, Camp Quality Dinner, 37 years of hosting Annual Jaycees Golf Tournament Benefit, Multiple Senior Scholarships, Ever evolving involvement for community betterment.

Members of the Cameron Rotary Club, past and present, pose for a photo at their 100th anniversary banquet last summer. Scan the QR code for a video from the event.

Take a tour with us down Cameron’s new history trail

City of Cameron officials and board members of the Cameron Train Depot Museum and Historical Society gathered in McCorkle Park to celebrate the installation of the final historical marker last May.

The Historical Society unveiled the final three historical markers highlighting President Harry S. Truman’s visits to a home on Chestnut Street, Outlaw Jesse James’ frequent visits to downtown and Cameron’s role in the production of the 1970 film “Adam at 6 a.m.” starring Michael Douglas.

“Paul Fiddick started this project. It was his dream. He envisioned this in 2020. He started making phone calls ... Ultimately, we took it on as a historical society to be his people to coordinate this here in Cameron,” said Connie Lintner, who sits of the historical society

board.

Last summer, city officials installed the first of seven planned historic markers as part of the $21,000 primarily funded by Fiddick. Fiddick helped unveil one of the second round of markers last fall, but could not attend last Thursday’s ceremony. As part of the project, each market bares the likeness of its subject and tells a short story about his or her time in Cameron. With markers placed at “selfie height” Fiddick hopes the markers attract visitors and increase civic pride.

“Here, along the east side of McCorkle Park, we have actors Michael Douglas and Lee Purcell, who starred in the movie ‘Adam at 6 a.m.’, which was filmed here in 1969. We still have several local residents, who live here in Cameron, that were either in the movie

or here when they were children at the time the movie was being filmed here. These monuments were all designed and ordered through Sloan Monument. Karen Thompson was an intricate part of getting this done,” Lintner said.

Lintner said former Cameron Citizen-Observer History Columnist Stan Hendrix’s work inspired Fiddick to create the project. Lintner also credited Cameron Community Development Director Tim Wymes and Tad Wilson, who served as interim public works director during the majority of construction, for their diligent work in installing the markers.

“Thanks to Paul Fiddick for having the vision, being in on every step of the process and providing the majority of the financing to finish this historical walk,” Lintner said.

Scan the QR code to take a video tour

ROTARY from page 21

Along with introducing the Rotary Club District President Kent Shelman, and incoming president Randy Steinman, Ice also recognized Jim Ocker - Rotary Club president during its 75th anniversary, as well 50th anniversary president Ken Baker. Since its 1923 founding, the Rotary Club served Cameron in a variety of ways. From offering annual scholarships to Cameron High School graduates to fundraising for the recently installed ADA fishing dock, constructed for residents at the Cameron Missouri Veterans Home - considered the crown jewel of the Cameron Reservoir - the group of area businessmen and women plays an active role in many Cameron residents’ lives.

“I’m honored to be in the footsteps of greatness. Most of us here are probably past presidents, some of us a couple of times,” Ice said. “What a tremendous club to be a part of, the services that we do selflessly. Our motto is service above self. Just give back to our community and the world as a whole. I’ve enjoyed being a part of that for the last 21 years.”

The meeting served as a homecoming of sorts for many past members. Even those who had been away for decades continued their community service after the banquet, when the Rotary Club served complementary cake and ice-cream to the attendees of that Thursday’s Cameron Municipal Band concert.

“My favorite thing is this club, and three other clubs, all celebrated 100 years this year. That’s crazy when you think about it. We had Brookfield in October, Trenton last month and now you - Cameron … Congratulations, enjoy the evening, and thank you for all you do for Cameron, Rotary International and the donations that make our programs go,” Rotary District President Kent Steinman said.

government offices

The city of Cameron is located in Clinton and DeKalb counties. A three-member elected commission leads each county government. A five-member council governs the city, with each member elected to a three-year term on a rotating schedule. Each year during the April election, Cameron citizens vote to elect either one or two council positions. The council elects one of its members as Mayor of the city

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

City of Cameron

205 North Main Street

Cameron, MO 64429

(816) 632-2177

http://www.cameron-mo.com/

City Council

Mayor Becky Curtis

Mayor Pro-Temp Alex Williams

Julie Ausmus

Gina Reed Hibler

John Breckenridge

Clinton County Courthouse

207 North Main Street

Plattsburg MO 64477

(816) 539-3713

http://clintoncomo.org/

County Commission

Patrick Clark

Presiding Commissioner

Jay Bettis

1st District Commissioner

Richard Riddell

2nd District Commissioner

DeKalb County Courthouse

109 West Main Street

Maysville, MO 64469

(816) 449-5402

http://www.dekalbcountymo.com/

County Commission

Kyle Carroll

Presiding Commissioner

Chet Owen

Commissioner, Eastern District

Kyle White

Commissioner, Western District

STATE GOVERNMENT

State Senator

Rusty Black (District 12)

Capitol Office

201 West Capitol Ave Rm 331 Jefferson City, MO 65101

(573) 751-1415

http://www.senate.mo.gov/

State Representative

Dean Van Schoiack (District 9)

MO House of Representatives

201 West Capitol Ave Rm 201B Jefferson City, MO 65101 (573) 751-3666

http://www.house.mo.gov/

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

U.S. Senator

Eric Schmitt

387 Russell Senate Office Bldg.

Washington, DC 20510

(202) 224-5721

http://www.schmitt.senate.gov

U.S. Senator

Josh Hawley

115 Russell Senate Office Bldg.

Washington, DC 20510

Phone: (202) 224-6154

http://www.hawley.senate.gov

U.S. Representative

Sam Graves (Sixth District)

1135 Longworth HOB

Washington, D.C. 20515

(202) 225-7041

http://graves.house.gov

Shown here are Cameron Rotary Club 75th anniversary President Jim Ocker, 50th anniversary President Ken Baker and 100th anniversary President Everett Ice.

A few quick facts

TAXES

All property is assessed as of January 1 of the given year. Taxes are due November 1, and become delinquent after December 31. Real Estate and Personal Property taxes for the City of Cameron are billed and collected by the County where the property owner resides or the real estate is located.

VOTER REGISTRATION

Any person who is qualified to vote shall be entitled to register in the jurisdiction within which he/she resides. In order to vote in an election requiring registration, a person must be registered no later than 5 p.m. (or on the normal closing time of any public building where the registration is being held if such time is later than 5 p.m.) on the fourth Wednesday prior to the election. Register at the City Clerk’s Office, 204 N. Main.

LICENSES AND FEES

All new Missouri residents must apply for a Missouri driver’s license and vehicle plates within 30 days after becoming a resident of the state – even if you still have valid license from another state. A vision test is required of new residents who have a valid out-of-state driver’s license. This can be done at the Cameron License Bureau, 508 Lana Dr., 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday thru Friday and 9 a.m. to noon on the 1st & 4th Saturdays. Regular driver’s license exams are given in the basement of City Hall, 205 N. Main, on Tuesdays, except on the 3rd Tuesday of each month, from 9 - 11:30 a.m. and 1 - 3:45 p.m.

Cat / Dog / Pot Bellied Pig Tags

All cats, dogs or pot bellied pigs over the age of six months must be licensed. Rabies and parvo vaccinations must be given by a licensed veterinarian to obtain a license.

All pet tags must be renewed by January 31. The license fee is $10 altered; $15 not altered. Note: Please observe Cameron’s animal control code – running at large is prohibited. Limit: 4 pets per household.

Hunting and Fishing

Hunting and fishing permits are not required for Missouri residents under the age 16 or over the age of 65. Permits for fishing and hunting can be obtained at various locations in Cameron. For complete list of regulations see the Missouri Department of Conservation website www.mdc.mo.gov.

UTILITIES AND BILLING

The City of Cameron provides electric, water, sewer, trash, and recycling services to its citizens. Before utilities can be turned on, a deposit must be paid, a Residential Utility Application or Commercial Utility Application filled out, and if applicable, a copy of your lease agreement submitted. Every person applying for utilities must present proof of identification such as a driver’s license.

Billing and Payments

Utility bills are mailed and should be received by customers on the first day of each month. Utility bills are due by the 15th of each month. After that, a 10% penalty is assessed on remaining balances. The City also offers a level-payment option for customers who have at least a 12 month history as a utility customer. City Hall is open Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Yard-Watering Meters

For the summer months, the City has yard-watering meters for those customers who do a lot of watering or pool filling. The meters must be purchased. All outdoor watering is done using the meter, then annually, the City will reverse the sewer charges associated with the water consumption on the yard-watering meter.

Plenty of parks to pick from throughout Cameron

The City of Cameron boosts several parks around town with a multitude of amenities. These would include: Disc Golf, Volleyball, Basketball, Tennis, Playgrounds, Shelter Houses and much more.

Recreation Park, located on Seminary Street by the Cameron Aquatic Center. Recreation Park is a great place for kids of all ages! It is home to large playgrounds, four shelter houses equipped with grills and electricity, two sand volleyball courts, six lighted tennis courts, two horseshoe pits, and a disc golf course.

The tennis courts feature timed lighting and is the location for numerous tournaments. During the winter months you can even try your hand, or foot as it were, at ice skating when the volleyball courts are transformed into at ice rink.

including the Freedom Festival, Cameron Festival of Lights, as well as several other events. The Cameron Municipal Band performs in the Price Memorial Pavilion during the summer months. Located in the park are the Firemen’s Memorial, Price Memorial Pavilion, Cameron Shamrock, and Learning Stones.

The Shamrock with embedded Blarney Stone nestles next to the Cameron stones in McCorkle Park. The shamrock is a reminder of the influence of Irish immigrants to Cameron’s history.

The Learning Stones are arranged in McCorkle Park across from the library where students and citizens can gather outdoors to hear stories, conduct activities and study.

has an area for large dogs – over 30 pounds and an area for small dogs under 30 pounds. It also includes ramps, a fire hydrant in each area, waste receptacles and benches for owners to use as their dogs play.

Beavers Park located on Elm Street on 4.5 acres also hosts a playground area and shelter house. For a complete list of the rules concerning the dog park visit Beavers Park or call City Hall at 816-632-2177.

Moose Station, a specially designed playground for children with disabilities, features a large ramp with wheelchair accessibility. Within the play area there are slides and a climbing wall, the four areas have separate tasks and sensory panels that focus on visual, auditory and tactile functions.

Located next to Recreation Park is the new Cameron Aquatic Center completed in May of 2022. It features two slides, a children’s splash area and a seven lane swimming pool.

McCorkle Park is located in the historic downtown area of Cameron on 2.5 acres. It is host to many events

Constructed in the summer of 2009 the Cameron Skate Park is a 5,000 sq. ft. concrete pad featuring ramps and jumps that can be used by skaters and BMX bikes alike.

In June of 2018 was the grand opening of the Cameron Dog Park at Beavers Park. This off-leash dog park

Kelsey Park is a one acre park at the corner of Park Avenue and Seminary Street. It is a large green space with a gazebo and benches. It is a long flat open space perfect for an impromptu football game or just a place to throw a ball around. Each year in honor of Arbor Day, the Kindergarten classes at Parkview Elementary plant a tree in Kelsey Park to memorialize the beginning of their educational experience.

Earl Park is a beautiful little park on the corner of Third and Walnut Streets. The 80 foot by 42 foot park has brick sidewalks and a fountain. The flowers at Earl Park are cared for by the Cameron Garden Club.

Enjoy free weekly summer concerts

continued as its director through the summer of 1986. Mr. Price built the ensemble into a group noted throughout Missouri for the high quality of its performances, an attribute that continues to this day. In the summer of ’87 Joe Finnegan directed the band. Ann Goodwin took over in the summer of 1988 and Shawn Abel was conductor from 1989 to 1992. Dr. Michael Mathews was the band leader from 1993 to 2012. Ann Goodwin Clark returned as director in 2013.

In recent years the band has performed twice for the annual convention of the Missouri Bandmasters Association, receiving high accolades each time.

The Cameron Municipal Band offers a Concert in the Park series each year beginning Memorial Day then each Thursday evening through the first Thursday in August. These FREE Concerts are held in McCorkle Park at the Thomas Price Pavilion at 8 p.m.

The History of the Cameron Municipal Band

The band was first organized in 1866 as the Cameron Silver Cornet Band with George Bissell as its director. The band’s first engagement was in Mirable, Mo. and they received $125.

In 1884, director Bissell was succeeded by W. E. Steck who served for ten years and introduced military drill to the performances. The name was changed to the Cameron Military Band. The drum major, E. F. Darby, was replaced in 1885 by Jake Stoner who led the band in their marching maneuvers in a uniform presented to him by John Philip Sousa.

In 1922 the band was reorganized under the direction of W. E. Tracy whose wife, Mrs. Jessie Tracy, became the band’s first female member. The band’s new name was the Cameron Community Concert Band. They met their expenses through donations from local merchants and by holding benefit concerts and hiring out to area towns. In 1927 the young ensemble became the Rotary Boys Band and for the next 25 years Cameron had two concerts each week: the Boys Band on Saturday and the Concert Band on Thursday. In 1929 the State of Missouri enacted the Band Fund Tax Statute, which allowed towns to tax themselves for the purpose of providing free band concerts. The people of Cameron voted that same year to impose a band tax. The bands, in accordance with the new law, became the Cameron Municipal Band and the Cameron Junior Municipal Band. The Junior Band was disbanded in 1955.

Thomas J. Price took over leadership of the band in 1962 and

Thomas J. Price Memorial Pavilion

The Cameron Municipal Band performs at the Thomas J. Price Memorial Pavilion. This pavilion was dedicated August 2, 2001 during the Band’s final seasonal performance. The Pavilion was erected in honor of Mr. Price, who began playing piano at age seven. Tom was a member of many bands through the years in addition to the Cameron Municipal Band. He was a band teacher at Maysville and then the Cameron schools, respectively, from 1948 until 1977.

CAMERON’S DEVOTIONAL DIRECTORY

BIBLE BAPTIST CHURCH

Pastor James Mackey 515 S. Elm St.

(816) 632-7337 | (816) 284-2830

Follow us on Facebook | Buses available for pickups

Sunday School ............................................10:00 a.m.

Sunday Morning Service.............................11:00 a.m.

Sunday Afternoon Service ............................2:00 p.m.

Wed. Evening Service & Kids Club..............7:00 p.m.

CAMERON CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE

Pastor Vicki Copp

206 Lovers Lane | (816) 632-7812

www.cameronnazarene.org

Sunday School ..............................................9:45 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship ...........................10:45 a.m.

In Person & Facebook Live

CAMERON RESTORATION BRANCH OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST

Elder Brian Marshall

1008 W. 3rd | (816) 724-0522

Opening Worship ..........................................9:30 a.m.

Sunday School ..............................................9:40 a.m.

Sunday Morning Service.............................10:30 a.m.

Wednesday Prayer Service ............................7:00 p.m.

CAMERON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Pastor Kobey Puls

201 N. Pine | (816) 632-3461

Music Leader - Ann Clark

Youth Leader - Morgan Scott

Children’s Leader - Dawn Gabauer

Nursery Coordinator - Linda Morris

www.cameronumc.org

Check out our Facebook page for Online Worship

Sunday Service............................................10:00 a.m.

Kid’s Sunday School .....................................9:00 a.m.

Age 4-5th Grade

Sunday Youth Group .....................................6:30 p.m.

Grades 6-12

Wednesday Kidz Connection ........................6:00 p.m.

Age 4-5th Grade - During School Year

COMMUNITY OF CHRIST

Pastoral Team: Nancy Fulmer, Denise Youtsey and Blair Shock

902 W. 4th

(816) 632-3303 | (816) 312-0377

Sunday School ..............................................9:30 a.m.

Sunday Morning Service.............................10:30 a.m.

In Person & Zoom Meeting

* Call the church to be added to the list

CROSSROADS ASSEMBLY OF GOD

Pastor Tim Harrell 919 N. Harris St. | PO Box 401 (816) 632-2427 www.crossroadscameron.org

Adult Sunday School ....................................9:30 a.m.

Children’s Church .......................................10:30 a.m.

Sunday Service............................................10:30 a.m.

Youth Ministry ............................................11:00 a.m.

Wednesday Service .......................................6:30 p.m.

Children’s Classes .........................................6:30 p.m.

Wednesday’s starting in May

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

Pastor Terry Beasley

202 E. Ford | (816) 632-7251

Music Pastor - Steve Howell

Youth Pastor - Aaron Laskey

Children’s Pastor - Bryan Allen www.cameronfbc.org

Sunday School - All Ages .............................9:30 a.m.

Sunday Worship ..........................................10:45 a.m.

Tues. Men’s Breakfast & Bible Study ..........6:00 a.m.

Wednesday Mid-Week Manna ....................10:30 a.m.

Wednesday Awana Clubs ..............................6:30 p.m.

Thursday Impact Youth .................................6:30 p.m.

FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH

(Disciples of Christ)

Pastor Russ Hamilton

318 N. Pine | (816) 632-3605 www.cameronmofcc.com cameronfcc@yahoo.com | Follow us on Facebook

Adult Sunday School ....................................9:00 a.m.

Sunday Morning Service.............................10:00 a.m.

Monday Evening Bible Study .......................6:00 p.m.

MABEL WORSHIP CENTER

ASSEMBLY OF GOD

Pastor Tim Ashby

5 miles North of Hwy. 36 on Hwy. 69, 1/4 mile West at sign | (816) 632-2673

Follow us on Facebook

Sunday School ..............................................9:30 a.m.

Sunday Morning Service.............................10:30 a.m.

Sunday Evening Service ...............................6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Family Night

Adult Bible Study .......................................7:00 p.m.

PASSION CHURCH

Pastors Lonnie and Colleen Hardy 1119 Bryan Rd. | (816) 632-2527

www.passionchurchmo.com

Follow us on Facebook

Sunday Morning Service.............................10:00 a.m.

Thursday Evening Service ............................7:00 p.m.

PRINCE OF PEACE

LUTHERAN CHURCH LCMS & NOAH’S ARK PRESCHOOL

Reverend Mark Goucher 209 Little Brick St. | (816) 632-7904

www.cameronlutheran.360unite.com

Follow us on Facebook

Sunday School ..............................................9:30 a.m.

Sunday Divine Service ................................10:45 a.m.

RIVER OF LIFE BAPTIST CHURCH

Pastor, Father Son Duo, Otis Nixdorf & Dave Nixdorf 811 S. Walnut | (816) 632-2246

www.riveroflifebaptist.com

Sunday School ..............................................9:00 a.m.

Sunday Worship Service .............................10:15 a.m.

ST. MUNCHIN CATHOLIC CHURCH

Father Thomas Ludwig 301 N. Cedar | (816) 632-2768 www.munchin.net

stmunchinparish@gmail.com

Saturday Mass ...............................................5:00 p.m.

Sunday Mass .................................................9:00 a.m.

School of Religion Sunday after Mass

Sunday St. Aloysius Mass ...........................11:00 a.m.

Weekday Mass: Mon., Wed. & Thurs. ..........8:00 a.m. Tues. & Fri..........................7:00 a.m.

TURNING POINT CHURCH

Pastor Terry Sims N 69 Hwy at EE Junction (816) 507-7062 | (816) 507-0030

Follow us on Facebook

Cafe Connect Breakfast ................................9:30 a.m.

Sunday Morning Service.............................10:30 a.m.

Follow live on Facebook

Tuesday Night Live .......................................7:00 p.m.

Bible Study or Live Focused Prayer

Wednesday Celebrate Recovery....................7:30 p.m.

Come Worship With Us!

New $6.7 million Cameron sports complex finally opens after two years of construction

The all too familiar summer song of clanking bats and accompanying cheers filled the new Cameron Community Park at Old Somerville sports complex Tuesday, following a ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the Cameron Park Board.

Nearly three years removed Cameron voters approving a 25-year, 1/2-cent sales tax funding the $6.7 million sports complex and $4.7 million Cameron Aquatic Center, which opened last summer, city officials held a ribbon cutting ceremony Tuesday afternoon as part of a soft opening for the new ballpark.

“It’s exciting. It’s been a long process. It’s still coming together, but it’s turning into a great facility that’s going to be great for the city,” Cameron Park Board President Matt Arndt said.

The ribbon cutting comes a month shy of the three-year anniversary of the 1/2-cent sales tax’s passage, which preceded more than a year of discussion, planning and design before construction got underway in late 2021. Although hosting little league games, Arndt said work on the sports complex

will continue through the summer including leveling the outfield, resolving issues with the sod and resurfacing the infield.

“The whole project is quite a bit behind schedule ... The park was supposed to be completed last fall. There is a lot of chatter circulating on social media, and we are aware and working on all of those (issues), but that is an important thing to remember,” Arndt said. “We’re really still in the final construction phases of this. We wanted to get the kids out here playing this

season. There are going to be some growing pains as we work through the final construction issues and keep the kids playing at the same time.”

The ribbon cutting represented only the first phase of the Cameron Community Park at Old Somerville. The Park Board recently began accepting bids for a year-round restroom and shelter adjacent to the soccer fields.

Freedom Festival every July 4th

Every Fourth of July, Cameron holds its annual Freedom Festival, a multiple-day event featuring concerts, fireworks and a variety of other activities in downtown Cameron, this year the festival was hosted by Cameron Historical Preservation Society, the Old School. As has become tradition, Freedom Festival kicks off with the Cameron Pet Show at the Price Pavilion in McCorkle Park, followed by the season opening performance by the Cameron Municipal Band, a 150-year-old entity and one of only four municipal bands in Missouri.

Depending on what day July

Fourth falls on, the following day typically features a car show, followed by an evening concert, and the recently implemented Glow

Run 5K, which replaced the then inaugural 5K.

For the holiday, activities rev up with the annual baby show, prince and princess show and Mr. and Ms. Contests. Simultaneously, at the Cameron Veterans Memorial, the Cameron Municipal Band, American Legion and the Cameron Missouri Veterans Home team for a tribute to veterans – a presentation recognizing the efforts of area vets in defending threats foreign and abroad. Following the parade downtown, Freedom Festival culminates with the Cameron Veterans Golf Course hosting the annual 10 p.m. fireworks show.

Scan the QR code for a video tour of the Cameron Community Park at Old Somerville.

Annual MarchFest draws thousands

Cameron’s first ever marching band festival was held in October of 2018.

Approximately 3,000 people arrived in Cameron to be a part of MarchFest. The all-day event consisted of 22 area marching bands competing in four different categories. The parade competition took place around McCorkle Park in Cameron’s historic downtown district, the indoor drum line and indoor color guard competitions were held in the Cameron High School and Cameron Veterans Middle School gymnasiums, and the field competition took place at the CHS Dave Goodwin Memorial Field.

By all accounts MarchFest was a stellar success benefiting our band students, the school district, and commerce throughout the city. Numerous comments were made in regard to how well organized the event was and the great attitude from student and adult volunteers. One parent from Maryville expressed amazement at how well run the event was and how well the town handled the influx of visitors. Judging by this year’s turnout and feedback this will become an annual festival here in Cameron. Band Director Ann Clark emphasized that MarchFest would not have worked without the hundreds of volunteer hours put in by the Band Boosters and great support from staff and administration at the schools.

Old School of Cameron Festival of Lights

Typically scheduled the last weekend in November, Cameron Festival of Lights culminates the years festivities in Cameron. For the first time the Cameron Historical Preservation Society has taken the reigns of the event. The event kicks off with the annual Christmas parade and ends with the tree lighting and arrival of Santa at McCorkle Park. Throughout the evening there are several events and activities to keep children of all ages entertained. These include horse drawn carriage rides to see the Christmas lights around town, free hot chocolate and S’mores stations, music by the Cameron High School Choir, window walk of downtown businesses,and carolers

singing Christmas tunes.

Just before Santa’s arrival is the raffle drawing to turn on the lights in McCorkle park. Children 10 and under can enter the raffle to “flip the switch” with the donation of a can good, for the Cameron Food Pantry. Then, there is the traditional reading of The Night Before Christmas. Once Santa arrives, he and Mrs. Claus get cozy in the Fireman’s Memorial to greet the area children and get their wish lists.

Superintendent hopes $8 million Cameron High School Performing Arts Center becomes regional attraction

The new $8 million Cameron High School Performing Arts Center opened to the public for last May, following a multiple-year construction process kicked off by the passage of the 2021 Cameron R-1 School District B.E.S.T. Bond.

The new facility hosted hundreds of area artists and musicians while hosting the Midland Empire Conference Arts Festival, but Cameron Superintendent Matt Robinson hopes it becomes a regional attraction.

“I’m hoping we can get the Kansas City Symphony to come in and all of these different people to come up to Cameron. I’m hoping this allows us to attract more people than we ever have. You’re just seeing the front part, not the back part - the dressing rooms and all of those pieces … I’m hopeful we will be able to host a lot more regional activities,” Cameron R-1 School District Superintendent Matt Robinson said

The Cameron High School PAC replaces the more than 100-year-

old Goodrich Theater, which served Cameron students, as well as the community during various concerts, plays and other live performances. After more than 100 years of constant use, repairing the myriad of structural issues became financially unfeasible. Pam Ice, a CHS parent and eventual member of the board of eduction, spearheaded an effort to replace

the dilapidated theater with the new PAC.

“I’m so happy for our community, for our kids to get something they can be proud of,” Cameron R-1 School District Superintendent Matt Robinson said.

Arthur Qualman, a CHS senior, said he felt a bit flush while performing with the MEC band during the performing arts center’s first concert.

“I teared up a little. It’s my senior year, and it was in the new PAC. I absolutely love band, and being able to perform in a performing arts center that has great acoustics and ambiance - it was amazing. I’ve been using Goodrich for years now.

[The CHS performing arts Center] doesn’t even feel like it belongs to us. It’s completely different. It’s so new, but it’s beautiful,” Qualman said.

Scan the QR code for a video from inside the new facility.

As you are driving along in Daviess County and happen to see large signs asking you to share the road with a horse and buggy, you might be entering the community of Jamesport.

The town is known for its many shops, tourist attractions, and the large Amish influence in the area. Around 175 families live on the rich farmland of the area.

Today, Jamesport has a population of 509 people who live in the tourist destination spot. Visitors love Jamesport for its various festivals including the May Days Festival, the Farmers Market and Heritage Days.