After months of what was described as an “operational challenge” by the Merchants of Old Town, the group will cease to exist as a separate entity later this fall. MOOT will become a committee of the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce, but will continue to function as a downtown association, actively promoting the Old Town area. MOOT past president and current treasurer Susy Lacer calls it a “win-win”. Chamber Executive Director Cal Applebee says the move becomes effective October First.