MUSCODA - Like many area organizations the Muscoda Chamber of Commerce has experienced an unusual year as the Coroavirus-19 Pandemic limits traditional gatherings and promotions.

However, at a meeting held Tuesday evening of last week, a small gathering of members approved continuing the organization’s financial donation to the annual Muscoda Morel Festival scheduled for May 15.

Dorothy Hackl, village president and Chamber member, reported that plans for the festival are underway for a one-day event with many of the traditional offerings taking place. She noted that it was recently confirmed that fireworks over the Wisconsin River will again be included among the Saturday attractions as will the popular Firemen’s Steak Feed.

It was also noted that the flowerpots, aimed at adding color to the business district summer scene, will continue. That is a joint effort of the Chamber and the village.

The status of the popular Fall Opener fundraiser was discussed. The event was canceled last September because of virus-19 regulations.

However, Cliff Schneider, who has been the source for gathering many of the items that are raffled or auctioned the night of the event to raise money, noted that much of the collection for the canceled 2020 event is still in his possession and available for 2021. He recommended postponing the decision about a 2021 event until a later meeting as there is plenty of time to see what develops during coming months. That suggestion was approved.

The Fall Opener has been the source of money to promote and provide money for many activities and equipment in the community, including in the parks.

The “First Annual Fall Opener” was held September 16, 2000. Items auctioned included furniture, wildlife art and guns with proceeds going toward  purchase of a new scoreboard in Jaycee Park. The Chamber planned for 200 persons that night and all tickets were sold. A top auction item was a “Winter Ruffed Grouse” picture painted by the well-known artist Owen Gromme. It brought $350.