CDA approves $2,000 sponsorship for National Mustard Day on Aug. 3

The Community Development Authority voted April 11 to provide a $2,000 sponsorship grant to support the National Mustard Museum’s National Mustard Day celebration scheduled for Aug. 3, 2024.

Stella Mustard, who identified herself during the presentation as representing the museum, told the authority the free downtown event draws large crowds and features live music, food, family games and “lots of mustard.” She said the museum is organized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and that rising event costs make outside support necessary.

Abby, a CDA staff member, told the board the authority’s annual event sponsorship budget is $7,500 and has been split in recent years into three $2,000 allocations for Art Walk, Mustard Day and Strollin', with $1,500 reserved for smaller events. Given that constraint, one committee member moved to maintain Mustard Day’s share at $2,000 and to revisit additional support only if remaining funds allow; another member seconded the motion.

The chair put the motion to a voice vote; members responded “aye” and the motion passed. Abby clarified the award is a $2,000 grant rather than a matching reimbursement and said staff will prepare the check without requiring the detailed receipts that had been requested in earlier years.

The museum representative thanked the authority for the support and noted tourism staff have provided advertising help, including a billboard on Highway 14, which the presenter said should help promote the reunion planned for Mustard Day weekend.

The authority’s action funds the museum at the same level it received last year. There were no roll-call vote tallies recorded in the transcript; the decision was taken by voice vote.

The authority also discussed timetables and promotion; the museum and staff will follow up on any additional requests if funds remain.