Chamber seeking new president

Ken Johnston
Editor

The Rainy River and District Chamber of Commerce is shopping for a new president.
Patti Palson, who was elected for the 2002 year announced to the members last Tuesday that she will be leaving Rainy River to accept a promotion with the LCBO in Dryden, effective May 13th.
Effective last Tuesday chamber Vice-President Lance Lindal stepped into the top spot with the chamber while a nominating committee begins to look for an interim president. It is hoped that by the next chamber meeting, which is on May 28th, that they will have someone who is willing to serve until September, which is when the annual general meeting is held. At that time elections will be held.
Merchant Madness returns!
After a two year hiatus Merchant Madness Days will return to Rainy River. Chamber of Commerce Events and Entertainment committee chair Crystal Lindal held a meeting last Wednesday to begin working on restarting the once popular event. The date for the weekend of bargains and fun activities has been set for June 7 & 8, 2002. More details will be made public in the weeks to come.
Walleye Tourney Update
All is moving ahead full speed ahead towards the annual RR Walleye Tournament. The committee reported to the chamber last Tuesday that it is looking to purchase a washroom trailer rather than pay rent for one every year. The chamber approved an offer by the RRWT committee to purchase the trailer from the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship.
Bursary
The Chamber agreed to present a $200 bursary at Rainy River High School’s annual graduation ceremonies to a student going on in the field of business administration.
Train Whistles & Museum
Wayne McCarthy brought up the issue of train whistles through the town of Rainy River. He urged the chamber to take up the issue however the consensus at the meeting was that it is a town council issue and recommended that McCarthy take it to the town council.
McCarthy also raised the possibility of the chamber buying the old Shell bulk supply warehouse. Both outgoing president Palson and Vice-president Lindal expressed concern that there would be big environmental issues with the building being that is has been used to store hazardous materials. They were also concerned about the land possibly being contaminated there as well.
McCarthy is looking for a building to house a museum and thought that if the building could be obtained for $1 it would be ideal.
With the environmental concerns in hand the chamber members present felt that another location should be sought out.