The monthly board meeting of the California Area Chamber of Commerce was held Thursday, Oct. 9, at the City Hall meeting room.
Janet Henley, California High School Librarian, and three students gave a presentation on how businesses can assist them win up to $100,000. "Celebrate My Drive" is a safe driving campaign centered on teaching drivers safe driving tips. "Two hands on the wheel and two eyes on the road" is the central focus. This contest is sponsored by State Farm Insurance. The students presented a video they made, handouts and copies of the video to share. From Oct. 15-24 each person is being asked to log in to www.celebratemydrive.com and choose California, MO High School, answer two questions, and check the box to commit to safe driving. This video is also available on YouTube titled "Pintos Drive Safe!" Awards are granted to 100 high schools (50 small schools and 50 large schools). California is in the small schools division. This campaign is driven by pledges. Five schools will receive $100,000 and 45 schools will receive $25,000. California hopes to win $100,000 and the money will be used for technology hardware upgrades such as computers, laptops, tablets and other technology devices.
The minutes and treasurer's reports were approved as presented.
Diane Eulinger, Chamber Secretary, distributed a written report in the member's packet which included several thank you notes regarding the Ozark Ham and Turkey Festival. She shared the need for baskets for the new comers to California. After discussion it was agreed to use a discontinued basket from Burgers' Smokehouse working out the cost and arrangement for pickup with Rita Hammerly.
Tom Winters, sign committee, shared bid specs are being reviewed by the city attorney.
Brad Baer, Ham and Turkey Festival chairman, stated the committee met Monday, Oct. 6, for a follow-up meeting. The festival finances are still being figured, but it looks like a profit in excess of $2,000 was made during the festival. Plans are underway for the 25th Ozark Ham & Turkey Festival. Some changes have been recommended regarding new banners, moving the south stage, broadcasting the parade from a different location, contacting more craft vendors, moving the car show, etc. One possible theme for next year would be the old woolen mill. Planning committee meetings will begin in March 2015. Baer discussed the need for changing from Monday evening meetings to accommodate more people.
The Chamber Annual Dinner is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 31, 2015. Nomination forms for Business of the Year and Citizen of the Year are available in the Chamber office or may be obtained online at www.calmo.com. Rita Hammerly, chairperson, will hold a committee meeting to discuss some possible changes.
Amanda Trimble introduced several Christmas parade themes and the board chose "Toyland". The parade lines up at the swimming pool at 4 p.m. and begins at 5 p.m.
In the interest of safety floats will need to have lights on them and no candy can be thrown. Children will be given a treat bag from Santa and Mrs. Claus at Commerce Bank following the parade.
The American Cancer Society Relay For Life group will take photos of your child with Santa and Mrs. Claus for a donation.
The Chamber encourages all Chamber businesses to host a Holiday Open House or Holiday event on Dec. 5, 6 and 7. Please let the office know what you are planning to do so it can be advertised in the California Democrat.
The California Area Chamber of Commerce Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by Commerce Bank will be held Saturday, March 28, 2015, with a rain date of Saturday, April 4, 2015.
The next board meeting will be held, Thursday, Nov. 13, at 8 a.m., in the City Hall meeting room.