United Way of Hall Co. celebrates 60 years

GAINESVILLE - United Way of Hall County celebrated its first 60 years Tuesday by remembering a founding family who helped get it started back in 1948.

Back in 1948 it was known as Community Chest and that first year it raised $17,000.

United Way Board Chairman Jack Keener said 60 years have made a difference.

"We just closed out our donations from last year at a record-setting just over $2 million," Keener said.

Community Chest became United Way in 1972.

United Way recalled Conrad Romberg and his City Ice Company, who helped get Community Chest started in Gainesville.

His oldest son, George, said City Ice became Food Service Equipment Company, but employees still contribute.

"We still contribute every year and we were the first to start the 'buck a month' plan," Romberg said.

As part of Tuesday's celebration, United Way announced the Conrad Romberg Loyal Contributor Program in honor of the Romberg family.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/8/212318