Chamber First Friday Focuses on Railroads, Lucinda Hart's Upcoming Departure

He might not have been working on the railroad ALL the livelong day, but he sure has worked a lot.

Charlie Barenfanger, a founder of the Effingham Railroad Company, was the featured speaker at the First Friday Luncheon hosted by the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce at the Holiday Inn.

Barenfanger shared about the establishment of the railroad with Jack Schultz of Agracel, his earlier involvement with railroads through his brother, and what's happening now that he is no longer the owner of the rail line.

Barenfanger sees a bright future for railroads and a return to more passenger rail service. 

(LUCINDA HART)

Friday's meeting was also a time to formally discuss the resignation of Lucinda Hart at Chamber President and CEO at the end of the month. Hart is leaving Effingham County after a three-year stint to return to Texas. She is going to head an interntional woman's organzation. 

Hart said it's an opportunity professionally, but also personally following the death of her father last year. She will be closer to family, particularly her mother. Our Greg Sapp spoke with Lucinda after Friday's luncheon about her decision...

An interim president and CEO of the Chamber is to be named soon.