–The Algona Cornbelt Chorus announced this week that after 66-years, the group is officially ceasing all operations. The final decision was reached at a meeting of members and former members is November of 2025, and work began at that time to distribute any assets the group still possessed. Steve King has been a member of the Cornbelt Chorus since he moved to Algona in the 1960’s to begin his teaching career, and he tells KLGA News the group was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, as they stopped meeting during 2020.
The Cornbelt Chorus was chartered on January 28th, 1960, and annual shows, known as “Parades”, were held between 1960-2019. King says countless men have been members of the chorus throughout it’s history.
The Cornbelt Chorus has not performed in public since December of 2021. King says when the decision to disband was made, the group began to get rid of any assets they still possessed.
They still have a few things to get rid of, including a number of tuxedos that were worn by members during performances. King says they are also hoping to find a space to keep the history of the group alive by displaying the awards that they won over the years.
The chorus began competing at the Central States District Contest in the 1980’s, and won the competition on seven occasions, with a number of 2nd and 3rd place finishes during that time as well. Anyone who may be interested in taking any of the items the group still has can contact King by calling 515-341-5978.
