HBA’s alphabet march underway

The Hillsboro Business Association is marching through the alphabet.
Hoping to purchase and install a new electronic billboard sign for downtown Hillsboro no later than this spring, HBA members have received more than $4,600 in cash and another $1,000 in pledges.
“We’ve bought 11 letters, A to K,” said HBA president Neil Nelson.
Cash contributions have been received from Hillsboro’s 2006 celebration committee, St. Rose of Lima Altar Society, St. John Lutheran Church, Dudley Horne Construction, Siegert Farms and Hillsboro Lumber.
The Vets Club and Goose River Golf Club have each promised $500.
The 3 x 7 ft. Monochrome Message Center installed will cost $13,860.44. In selling letters of the alphabet for $500 each, Hillsboro’s business group will raise $13,000.
Contributions of any amount are welcomed, Nelson said.
“Buy a part or share the cost of one letter with another party, business, organization or person.”
This is a community project, Nelson added.
“It will be a nice addition to our downtown.”
Meanwhile, businesses are renewing their HBA memberships, according to Sheri Paulson, HBA treasurer.
More than half of the 2006 member businesses have renewed, said Paulson. In addition, she said, three new businesses have come on board for 2007
“This is good,” Paulson said.
Said member businessman Paul Geray: “It shows how progressive Hillsboro is. It’s all about growth and promoting and Hillsboro is growing.”