The 25th Annual Christmas Dinner of California Progress, Inc. (CPI) drew a good turnout Tuesday, Dec. 2, at the California Event Center on the Courthouse Square. Many past board members and past officers were in attendance for the special anniversary event. The California High School Sounds of Joy vocal group presented its Merry Christmas Program at the end of the meeting.
Following a social time, opening remarks by outgoing President Mike Staton, and an Invocation by Phil Lewis, those present dined on bacon wrapped stuffed chicken breast, cranberry pecan salad, scalloped potatoes, buttered corn, homemade rolls and assorted pies.
A brief business meeting began with comments on the achievements of CPI over the years. Among those achievements are: the renovated Old Post Office, now the home of the Moniteau County Historical Society; the Smith-Burke Park; the renovated Ehrhardt Building, now the Moniteau County Library at Wood Place; and the renovated Finke Theatre.
An award was presented to outgoing CPI President Staton by outgoing Vice President Becky Lawson. Lawson also presented an award and gift to Vickie Schroeder, who served as Executive Secretary for several years. She left the position in August.
The nominees for the CPI Board were approved: Mary Jo Garnett, two year term; Pam Green, three years; Gail Hughes, one year; Emilio Juarez, three years; Norman Rohrbach, two years; Charlie Roll, three years; Eleanor Tiefenbrun, three years. Due to unusual circumstances, seven new board members were needed. To insure that only four new board members are needed each year, the terms of the new members are staggered.
Officers for 2015 are President Larry Kent, Vice President Alex McGill, Secretary Beth Jungmeyer and Treasurer Blake Howard.
An update was given on the facade loans possible through the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) funds. Information was presented about the project to revitalize the California Historic District (CHD).