Chamber loses executive director

The Wahkiakum Chamber of Commerce bids farewell to its director, Tanja Winebrenner, this week. The U.S. Rural Development capacity building grant that funded the Chamber position has ended. Even though the Chamber has grown significantly during the three years of the the grant, there still is not enough funding to support a full-time director.

"With the uncertainty in our economy, we believe it is time to carefully marshal our resources and work with volunteers during the inter months," said Sandi Rieder, Chamber president.

The Chamber and the Lower Columbia Economic Development Council worked jointly to accomplish the requirements of the grant.

"The Chamber has come a long way," said David Goodroe, EDC executive director. During her tenure, Winebrenner achieved new levels of sponsorship for events and supported members through the year. "We thank Tanja for her hard work," said Rieder.

During the winter months, Chamber volunteers will pick up phone calls and e-mails to make sure that the members' needs are served. The board and the members will also be discussing the Chamber's future including what activities to continue supporting and how to staff the organization in the future. The Chamber will also maintain a brochure rack outside of the Visitor's Center. Discussions are underway with other organizations about the Visitor's Center, how to staff it during the summer months, and whether to open it unstaffed during business hours.

"We have a lot to think about over the coming months," said Rieder. "The Chamber has put a lot of effort into many events and programs which have helped our businesses and community grow and prosper. The Chamber must look at all programs and events we support. For example, will we continue the Crab Feed, Bald Eagle, the Chili Cook Off, Halloween and Christmas Lights for events? On top of that, we need to consider the Visitors' Center, brochures, working with Pacific County and Astoria on the National Heritage Area, along with the marketing, advertising and retail support. The Chamber touches so many events and organizations that leaving anything out will be a difficult decision for our board and members. In addition, we must keep the Chamber web site current and respond to all newcomers and media requests."

Chamber members are being asked for their input and opinions during regular business meetings and via e-mail.

Chamber meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month from noon to 1 p.m. at the Riverview restaurant in Cathlamet. The Riverview's bar is closed for the meeting during the lunch hour. The Chamber can be contacted at 795-9996 or by e-mail at wchamber@cni.net.