Organization still has vital regional role

Born during the Depression, the South Platte United Chambers of Commerce continues to thrive seven decades later.

The group -- known affectionately as "Spook" -- will be gathering Tuesday, May 11, in Clay Center for its 70th annual meeting. At that time, Angus Garey of McCook will be sworn in as vice president, setting the stage for him to become president in two years. He will follow this year's president, Tom Willnerd of Clay Center, and the president-elect, Jim Ziebarth of Wilcox, in the South Platte Chamber's line of leadership.

It's hard to believe, after such a long time, that the South Platte organization continues to perform such a vital role in this area. "They have solved lots of problems," says Marv Lorentz, a McCookite who is among the organization's most loyal supporters. He and his wife, Dixie, attend most of the monthly meetings, and work actively through the McCook Area Chamber of Commerce to encourage attendance and participation by others.

The organization grew out of a meeting which took place in Holdrege April 4, 1934. From that session -- which brought together 140 representatives from 24 towns -- the South Platte United Chambers of Commerce was born. Almost immediately, the long title was shortened to the initials, SPUCC, and -- over time -- the abbreviation began to be pronounced as "Spook."

But, while the abbreviated title may sound frivolous, the work of the organization is very serious. In the beginning, the communities south of the Platte River joined forces to confront the problems of drought, depression and flood control.

Seventy years later, the needs are just as great. "Now," Lorentz said, "the emphasis is on water and economic development."

Through the years, McCook has taken an active role in the organization. Five current residents of the community -- Jack Hendrix, Ken Foster, Van Korell, Carol Schlegel and Leon Kuhlen -- have served as presidents of SPUCC. Two other past presidents from McCook, Roy Lenwell and Dave Coolidge, are deceased.

It's a long way from this part of the state to Clay Center, but several area representatives are still expected to attend Tuesday's 70th anniversary meeting. They will be hearing Gov. Mike Johanns and witnessing the installation of the 2004-05 officers.

The South Platte organization is now made up of 35 towns, including Beaver City, Benkelman, Cambridge, Curtis, Indianola, McCook, Oxford and Palisade in the southwest corner of the state.

The SPUCC has made significant contributions to this section of the state. We need to join Angus Garey and Marvin and Dixie Lorentz in giving the South Platte Chamber our continued support in the future.