The Linden Industrial Board is planning to say “thank you” in a big way. On March 19, the IDB will host the first annual Linden Industry and Business Appreciation Luncheon.

The IDB decided Mon. to hold the luncheon on March 19. It will be held in the fellowship hall at the First Baptist Church in Linden.

“We need to have something to let them know how valuable they are to us,” board member Jeanette Washington said when she proposed in Nov. to hold the luncheon.

The board plans to begin with a recognition of old and new businesses at the reception in March, then plan for the event to grow in subsequent years into an awards type banquet honoring local businesses, industries and their leaders.

The IDB will begin sending our invitations within the next two to three weeks.

In other business — the Linden Industrial Development Board approved renewing its membership in the South/West Alabama Chamber of Commerce for 2009.

Linden Mayor Mitzi Gates reported to the IDB that the Whistle Stop II is beginning to move equipment to Linden.

The long awaited arrival of the popular diner was rumored to have stopped when its owner, Kathy Lewis suffered a stroke before Christmas.

“She had a massive stroke, but amazingly recovered with very little effect on her,” Gates told the board members.

The Whistle Stop is famous for their “train wreck” stuffed baked potato at their original location in Toxey, Ala. The new restaurant will be located on Hwy 43 across from city hall.