The committees are formed, the work is being done and the plans are under way for a new Sidney Area Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture event. It is the Town and Country Festival on June 28.

The idea is to bring town and country people together in a day packed full of events. It doesn't matter if you are young, old, a businessman or a farmer, there will be something for each one to enjoy.

The idea of a festival such as this was the brainstorm of two young women who have jumped back into their community feet first. Marci Albin and Jamie Larson are those energetic women. Both left Sidney after graduation to spread their wings, but after a few years, both decided coming back home is what they wanted to do.

Thinkin' out loud Libby Berndt

These two are not sitting back and complaining about "there's nothing to do in Sidney," but instead are volunteering their time and energy to make sure there "is" something to do. I'm on the Town and Country Festival committee with these young ladies and it gets my blood pumping just listening to them come up with ideas and get enthused about what is in store on June 28.

I've heard people say over and over again, "The young people have to start stepping forward." Well, that's just what is happening. I hope this community and businesses follow suit and step forward to support the efforts put forth. An event such as this takes everyone's help from chamber members, to community members, to family members.

The event kicks off at 7 a.m. with sidewalk sales and the Healthworks Fun Run. At 10 a.m. a Town and Country parade will take place with businesses, clubs, churches and organizations encouraged to build a float representing their milestones in this community. Each parade sponsor is asked to contact the Chamber office, 433-1916, to register. Your representation in the parade is what will make it a successful event.

After the parade, a free feed hosted by the Sidney Herald in recognition of its 100th anniversary will be served. Carnival games, entertainment, a business scavenger hunt, an old fashioned ice cream social sponsored by the Foundation for Community Care and the big finale - a community street dance is planned for downtown.

Get motivated, jump on the bandwagon and come out and support this event. It takes everyone to make a community strong.

Montana Chamber meeting

Thanks Karen Olson Beenken for bringing the Montana Chamber of Commerce's board meeting to Sidney June 9-10. Come on Sidney, put out the welcome mat, spruce up downtown and let's make Sidney something to be proud of.

Those wanting to attend the June 9 banquet with guest speaker Taylor Brown must R.S.V.P. to dee@montanachamber.com or call the Sidney Chamber office. The event is at the Country Club, and cost is $25.

Libby Berndt is publisher for the Sidney Herald. She can be reached at 406-433-2403 | publisher@sidneyherald.com