A recent question about former Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District Board Member and current school board candidate Chris Staples’ years of service with the La Mirada Chamber of Commerce prompted something perhaps more valuable than a simple date, a look back at a chapter of La Mirada’s business community.
Staples has identified himself in campaign materials as a former president of the La Mirada Chamber of Commerce. During a recent Chamber board meeting, the question arose as to when Staples had served as president. Several longtime members present could not immediately recall the years, and questions had also been received from members of the community asking about the time frame.
Tammye McDuff, Executive Director of the La Mirada Chamber of Commerce and Publisher of The Olive Grove News, contacted Staples directly to ask when he held the position.
The inquiry was specifically about the years of his presidency.
Staples responded publicly on his campaign page Wednesday morning, sharing that he served on the Chamber board for several years and as Chamber president during 2006–2007.
But his post went beyond dates.
Staples recalled a period when the Chamber was dealing with funding challenges, leadership changes and the relocation of its longtime office. He also wrote about advocating for small businesses affected by redevelopment near La Mirada Boulevard and Imperial Highway.
His post offered a glimpse into a different period in the Chamber’s history and the issues facing La Mirada businesses at the time.
The Olive Grove News asked Staples for permission to share his reflections with our readers, and he graciously agreed. Whatever prompted the original question, sometimes asking “When was that?” opens the door to remembering a little more of our community’s history.
Chris Staples served as President of the La Mirada Chamber of Commerce from 2006–2007.
The Olive Grove News provides coverage of local candidates and community issues and does not endorse candidates for public office.
