A pile of candy canes lay on Lisa Thomaston’s desk ready to be personalized and distributed to the Calera Chamber of Commerce’s 170 members. Thomaston, the Chamber’s new executive director, says the holiday candy is her token of appreciation for members’ continued support.

“Our members are valuable, and we’re here to promote the city,” said Thomaston, who was named executive director on Nov. 14. “I’m here to help any way I can.”

Thomaston began volunteering at the Chamber in October. At the suggestion of a friend, she submitted her resume for the executive director’s seat. Thomaston is an active fundraiser and coordinator of school and youth organizations, including the Calera Youth Wrestling Organization.

Thomaston, who was reared in Alabaster, is a longtime Calera resident. The wife and mother of four spends the workweek answering phones, checking e-mails and coordinating Chamber events. However, Thomaston opts not to sit behind her desk all day.

“I like to get out and greet and meet new people in the area … to not be here all the time in the office,” she said.

When she’s not coordinating the Annual Christmas Parade or monthly Chamber luncheons, Thomaston is a regular attendee of ribbon cutting ceremonies. Last Friday, Thomaston witnessed the “board cutting” ceremony at the new Marvin’s Building Materials and Home Center on Highway 31. Rather than cut a ribbon, Marvin’s thought it more appropriate to cut a wooden board to celebrate the store’s opening.

Thomaston will also attend the Dec. 18 ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Alabama Power Company office on Highway 304 across from Walmart.

Thomaston wants to help Calera put its best face forward, and encourages the community to join in the effort. The Chamber’s door is always open.

“I want to let the people know that we’re here to answer any questions they may have,” she said.

The Chamber’s hours are 10 a.m.-2p.m. Monday-Friday. For more information, call 668-3023.