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Chamber President urges area residents to get involved
Dear Editor, I am writing to express my thoughts on the vital role community involvement plays in fostering a thriving, connected, and resilient society.
In today’s fast-paced world, it is easy to overlook the power of collective action and the impact it can have on our neighborhoods.
When individuals come together to volunteer, support local initiatives, like our Chamber of Commerce, the benefits are profound.
Community involvement not only strengthens social bonds but also addresses pressing local issues, from improving public spaces to supporting our business community in general. It empowers individuals to take ownership of their surroundings and creates a sense of belonging that is invaluable.
I urge readers to reflect on how they can contribute to their community.
Together, we can build a stronger, more compassionate community.
— Ray Sukovaty President Hartington Chamber of Commerce
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Reader asks: ‘How can we work together to make things better’
Over the last several years, there has been a noticeable shift in Hartington. There are more school events, more children’s activities and more opportunities for people to volunteer and take part. One thing that has stood out to me, though, is the Chamber of Commerce, which now has very low community involvement.
I recall about 15 years ago when people wanted to be part of the Chamber and were proud of that fact. Members took an active role in supporting local businesses and in the growth of their town. Businesses hosted Chamber coffees, providing a setting where business owners and residents could mingle and build stronger ties as a community. People attended monthly meetings, the annual meeting and took part in the activities the Chamber organized.
I believe it’s time for the community to speak up about this. Do we still need a Chamber, or has it served its purpose? Can we create something new that would involve more of the community — not just business owners? And if so, who would take charge and how would it work?
We have an outstanding community and are always looking for ways to grow. Our town has more going for it than most communities our size. I am proud of Hartington. I hope you are, too.
We all need to ask ourselves: How can we work together to help our community continue to grow and thrive?
— Lisa Dendinger, Secretary, Hartington Chamber of Commerce
