Greater Speedway Chamber of Commerce Shares The Wealth

(posted Oct 24)

The Greater Speedway Chamber of Commerce expects to be able to share even greater resources with the community in 2007 as a result of the October 24 silent and live auction fund raising.

President Gary Raikes noted that three times as many people were able to attend this year with its new location at the Brickyard Golf Resort and Inn's Pavilion.

Raikes explained the chamber raised $10,000 in 2006, but expects to catapult over that amount since they auctioned twice the number of items at this year's event.

Tim Nieman, marketing arm of the IRL, donated autographed photos from Al Unser Senior's win of the 1987 race, as well as Johnny Rutherford's 1980 500 win. Sinden Racing provided a ride around the track in the two seat race car. The IRL also donated autographed items from Helio Castroneves, Sam Hornish, Jr. and a flag signed by all of the drivers that participated in the Sonoma Race.

Raikes explained this year the chamber is looking to help the community in other ways. The chamber is eying the the Community Development Corporation as a possible recipient. The CDC is a quasi-government non-profit entity. The members are appointed by the town council and redevelopment commission. The CDC's charter is to assist with grant programs to help revitalize Speedway. The CDC is currently investigating the criteria to start a Main Street Facade Grant Program.

"I have been blessed with so many resources in my life," Raikes said, adding that he feels compelled to share the wealth. The chamber is actively supporting the students at Speedway High School with its $1,000 scholarship to a graduating senior as well contribution funds to the parks. The chamber also contributed $2,000 to Junior High School students traveling to Motegi Japan. Raikes also made a personal contribution because of his belief that international travel is important to a person's education and growth.

Superintendent Ken Hull said the chamber is an excellent ally and supporter of the schools. He explained the chamber sees a good school system as a critical factor to attracting growth to a community.