April 3, 2008

Lind chamber’s fate hangs in the balance

Community members are invited to attend two special Lind Chamber of Commerce meetings on Tuesday, April 8, at Slim’s Bar and Grill in the dining room to discuss the future of the civic organization.

The first meeting is at 12:30 p.m., followed by another session at 6:30 p.m. Chamber secretary Janet Rasmussen said a decision about the group may be made that night or in a few days.

The current list of active chamber members is only three, and those three volunteers are considering dissolving the group.

“There’s only three active members in the whole chamber and we’re tired,” Rasmussen said. Joining her in the group’s endeavors are Cathy Rainey, president, and Sharon Reeve.

In preparation for the meetings, the chamber sent out about 400 letters, but Rasmussen said she’s received only one reply.

“If we don’t get any response, there’s no reason to keep going,” she said.

The chamber is a strong supporter of community members and activities. Topping the list of endeavors is sponsoring a yearly $500 scholarship as well as supporting the high school yearbook and the Junior Miss Program.

The grand parade held during the world-renowned Combine Demolition Derby Extravaganza in June is sponsored by the chamber.

The group continues to support the annual Kathryn L. Miller Christmas Parade, which it started, in December by offering free chili and hot dogs.

The Lind Ambulance Association, Adams County Historical Society, Lind Senior Center and the Coaster Car Races during the demolition weekend have received financial support from the chamber. The chamber also plans to support the Lind Little League field when it’s built and operational.