Community Tradition Fuels Scholarships at Annual Chamber Meal
The Culbertson Chamber of Commerce’s annual meal continues its long-standing tradition of serving the community while supporting local education through its scholarship initiative.
Wayne Hendrickson, who has served as chamber president for seven years, oversees the event that has become a staple of the Roosevelt County Fair. The menu features pulled pork sandwiches, potato salad and bottled water. Organizers previously served soda but transitioned to water to mitigate issues with wasps, encouraging fair-goers to support other vendors for additional beverage options.
While the Chamber experimented with serving hamburgers a few years ago, the community’s preference for the traditional pulled pork led to its return. In a commitment to the regional economy, all materials for the meal are sourced from local businesses.
The meal remains free to the public, though the Chamber introduced a free-will donation system three years ago. These contributions directly fund the organization’s scholarship program, which is now in its third year of operation.
The program awards two $500 scholarships annually to students who successfully navigate a formal application process. The 2026 recipients were Ivy Colvin and Kaden Featherston, following the 2025 winners, Henry Colvin and Dawson Bergum.
The event typically serves approximately 350 people, reinforcing its role as a key community gathering and a vital source of funding for local students.
