Board positions were discussed during the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce’s regular board meeting, Nov. 6, after two individuals — Dave Mayer and Kathy Boyts — expressed interest in joining the board.

Chip Erwin highly recommended Mayer who holds lengthy experience with fundraising, among other skills. Board members are already familiar with Boyts who is a former member of the chamber, serving as president prior to her term ending.

Current board member Chad Jonsson had expressed his willingness to leave the board to make room for a new member since his first term is ending at the end of 2013. Jonsson stated that a lot of what he does for the chamber could continue without him having a board position.

Matt Schwartz, who voiced his thoughts via email, and Tom Tuttle were in favor of Jonsson remaining on the board at least until 2014. Tuttle also questioned what difference it would make if the board grew from 15 members, noting it would increase the likelihood of a quorum at meetings. It was added that with increases in chamber membership, there were more responsibilities.

After discussion, it was decided to create two spots on the board and have Boyts and Mayer as candidates. They will be voted on by chamber members prior to the annual awards banquet.

While on the topic, it was noted that several board members will reach their term limits in 2014, including President Richard Owen.

Several events were mentioned during the meeting. There will be a Christmas decorating contest for residential and business properties in Turkey Creek Township with cash prizes for the winners. Participants will register through the chamber and must decorate between Dec. 2-13; the judging will then occur Dec. 16. The event is sponsored by Eastlund Funeral Home and Lakeland Animal Clinic.

The Fall Harvest Festival at Veterans Park was a huge success with Jonsson stating they will possibly move it to Lakeside Park next year for more space.

Holiday Magic is slated for Nov. 23 and will have several activities split between Veterans Park and Lakeland Youth Center. Activities will include gingerbread house making, sleigh rides, live entertainment, plus Santa’s arrival. There will be free cookies and hot cocoa.

In other chamber news:

• Taste of Syracuse continues to come together with several chefs and restaurants on board. Erwin noted they are considering including beer and wine sampling.
• The board reviewed bids for the upcoming Chamber Awards Banquet with Grill-N-Grate BBQ offering the most competitive bid, which included dinner and a cash bar. The banquet will be Jan. 28.
• The chamber plans to partner with George Robertson, president of Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation, to hold an economic update luncheon on either Jan. 14 or 15. This comes after interest was expressed during the small business tune-up listening session.

Next chamber meeting is at noon Dec. 4 in the chamber office.