The California Area Chamber of Commerce discussed its slate of officers up for approval next month, among other topics, at its November meeting.
With current president Blake Howard outgoing, Vice President Brandy Brockes will tentatively move into the role. Exhale Spa owner Kayle Kiesling volunteered to be included on the slate for the VP position, and all other board leadership positions reported their willingness to stay on in each of their roles. The Chamber will officially vote on these appointments at its December meeting.
The Chamber also discussed some fast-approaching holiday events. Scheduling surrounding the Disney-themed Christmas parade Dec. 7 was nailed down a bit more firmly - the Chamber plans to have the tree lighting outside the courthouse prior to the parade at 4 p.m. in an effort to boost attendance, with the parade itself taking place at 5 p.m.
Following the parade, the lights will be switched on for Christmas in Proctor Park, when the city's street lights turn on after dark. Currently, there are 39 businesses signed up to participate in lighting up the park during the holiday season.
The Chamber's annual dinner and meeting will take place Jan. 25 at Sweet Chipotle, where Business and Citizen of the Year honorees will be recognized. The Chamber discussed expanding the field for its Volunteer of the Year award to allow for the winner to be a non-Chamber member.
The Chamber welcomed three new members this month - Hays Rock Works, Grace Designs LLC and wedding and event planner Emily Franklin, who joined as an individual.
The Chamber heard some final numbers from September's Ozark Ham and Turkey Festival. Executive Secretary Sandra Ratcliff said more than $15,000 in funds from the festival has been contributed this year to sponsorships for the Missouri Boys and Girls State programs, Christmas decorations, the Moniteau Alliance for Kids and Toys for Tots, among other contributions.
The Chamber's next meeting will be at 8 a.m. Dec. 12.