Chamber soars above old debt

The dates of June 12-13, 2004, still cast a black shadow over the very fine work these days of the Hayden Chamber of Commerce.

That weekend almost six years ago should have represented a high-water mark for the Hayden Chamber as it sponsored a spectacular feel-good community event, an air show called Thunder Over the Prairie. Spectators were treated to an inspirational and at times awesome aerial display of vintage planes and jets. But because the financial management of Thunder was spectacularly inept, the event racked up a debt of $238,000. That represented a blow that could have dissolved a group with lesser resolve.

Fast forward to last Saturday night, and dissolution wasn't on anybody's mind. While the Hayden Chamber's board is still chipping away at a substantial hunk of the old debt - a debt that the current board had no hand in creating - spirits soared as Board President Nancy Lowery handed out awards.

Honorees include:

H (Humanities): Skip Kuck

A (Arts): Tyree Kearns

Y (Youth service): Karl Haakenson

D (Distinguished community service) Jan Jesberger

E (Education): Sharon Hanson

N (New business): Rianne's Bridal

Three other special awards were given. Jan Jesberger was recognized for distinguished community service, Michael King received a standing ovation for his extraordinary work as a Chamber board member, and Hayden Meadows Elementary School - staff, faculty, administration, parents and students - all received the Hayden Chamber Special Recognition Community Award.

We salute all these outstanding community members and particularly applaud the ongoing efforts of Lowery and her team to resolve a problem that they willingly inherited. We encourage anyone who would like to help in this honorable endeavor, by forgiving debts owed, by organizing a fundraiser or by donating directly to the cause, to contact Lowery at the Chamber. Call (208) 762-1185 or e-mail info@haydenchamber.org.