The Grant County-Silver City TEA Party will cease operations by year-end. Current Vice Chairman Peter Burrows told The Beat that membership has dwindled to the point that the work load was getting to be too much for the few members remaining.

"Our Chairman, Vic Topmiller, resigned last week, saying that it was time to pull the plug," Burrows said. "This is something we have been considering for over a year. Without new members, especially younger members, it's inevitable that this would happen."

Burrows said the TEA Party will host one last forum, November 10 at the Woman's Club, which will be about the controversial Common Core educational program. "After that," Burrows said, "Our final meeting will be our annual Christmas party on December 8. That will also be our "retirement" party and it will be a catered event. We'll go out in style," he added.

The TEA Party was formed in 2009 and had an active membership of about 40 at its peak. Burrows, who was Chairman in 2011, said he may start a local Libertarian Club if there's any interest. "It would be strictly social. No setting up booths at county fairs, no forums or special events."