The Nederland Chamber of Commerce and Tourist Bureau board of directors and staff would like to thank the Nederland Heritage Festival Foundation for the generous donation to the museums.

The Nederland Chamber of Commerce is responsible for the Windmill and French House Museums along with the salaries of the employees who man them. We are supported in this endeavor by the city of Nederland through our hotel/motel tax. It is through this money that we are able to pay these employees.

Due to Hurricane Rita and the destruction of the Best Western Motel, the contribution from the hotel/motel tax is almost non-existant. Due to this drastic drop in income, the Nederland Chamber of Commerce is looking at having to close the museums with the exception of special tours and laying off these employees.

With the donation from the Festival Foundation this will help to keep the museums open and staff employed for a longer time.

Again, the Nederland Chamber of Commerce appreciates the continued support from the Nederland Heritage Festival Foundation.

Cindy Clifton

Executive