January 12, 2012

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce General Meeting

Meeting came to order at 8:10 A. M. at the Spirit Lake Book Store.

Old business:

• Winter Fest was discussed as to the possibility of no snow. However it will be held, as there are about seven cooks that are participating in the chili cook off. Volunteers were requested and received in helping with the event.
  
  
• Marc gave a report on the map project for Spirit Lake.
  There will be about 12,500 printed and distributed to hotels and other guest oriented places. He also gave an enthusiastic report on the accomplishments of The Greater Spirit Lake Economic Development Group.
  
  
• Downtown Spirit Lake has new sidewalks, trees, benches and lights, a pedestrian/bike path from down town to the public boat launch, created a recreational center for rentals of kayaks, canoes, paddle boats, and bikes, and have outdoor entertainment to promote performing arts, concerts, and family entertainment.
  
  
• Jeanne said, "Spirit Lake Music has planned for three dates for music in the park."

New Business:

• Marc mentioned the loss of the Rathdrum Star and suggested maybe a newsletter from the chamber might be in the works.

• Our guest speaker, Jamie Lynn Morgan, spoke on how to implement a Social Media Strategy for business. She offered classes for chamber members. She had questions at the end.
  
  
• Our February meeting will be Feb.9th at Terry’s Cafe.

Meeting adjourned at 9:00 A. M.

December 08, 2011

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce General Meeting

Meeting opened at 8:04 A. M. at Terry’s Café

Old business:

• Marc brought the application for membership in Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce for 1012. Jeanne gave each member present a copy to fill out for new membership.
  
  
• Mark showed a sample of what the map and directory would look like with the price of the ads. If you wish to be on the list please see Marc and money needs to be prepaid by March 1, 2012 or you will not be included.
  

New Business:

• Jeanne said the next meeting, Jan. 12th. Will be at the Bookstore on 41 as they had equipment for ease of demonstrations for guest speakers. Jamie Lynn Morgan will be our next speaker. She will be speaking on Implementing a Social Media Strategy for Your Business.

• There was some talk about changing the sign on the highway and also one on each end of 41 coming into Spirit Lake.
  
  
• Adept Accounting gave a financial report.

Meeting was adjourned at 9:05 A.M.

November 10, 2011

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce General Meeting

Meeting opened at 8:05 A. M. at Terry’s Café

Old business:

• Avista said the lights would be installed before Thanksgiving so the date for the ribbon cutting was set for Friday the Second of December. Bob Weaver made the motion we set the date for Friday the Second of December and Carol Chapman seconded it.  Motion passed.  Lots of suggestions for the event.
  
  
• The business directory was discussed and Mark showed a map from Boise with business and historical buildings on the back.  After discussion a motion was made to have Mark work out a sketch of a Spirit Lake Map similar to the one shown.  Becky Gadam seconded it, motion passed.
  

New Business:

• Mark said the date for Winterfest was set for January
  28, 2012. There was much discussion about that, however the ones in charge of the project would handle it.

• Tom Russell gave a report on the progress of the electrical being proposed for the big park.

Meeting was adjourned at 9:15 A.M.

October 13, 2011

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce General Meeting

Meeting was called to order by President Tom Russell at 8:15 A. M.

Old business:

• Since it was brought up at the last meeting that it was time to elect new officers for the coming year, Tom asked for volunteers.  None were forthcoming.
  Jeanne Bruner was asked if she would be president and she said that she had considered it.
  
  
• Bob Weaver volunteered to be vice president.  Althea Sondahl made a motion to accept Jeanne Bruner as president and Bob weaver as vice president.  Treasurer would be the same (Adept Business Services) and Helen Campilli as secretary.  Cam seconded the motion.  Motion passed.
  

New Business:

• Plans were in progress for the big park.  Underground work is done for the time when there will be an up grade of electric, lights, cameras, and paving of the path if the city allows.

• Tom also suggested the chamber should decide what goals they were going to plan for the next year.
  Jeanne Bruner volunteered to talk to the merchants to see what they thought the chamber should do for them. Tom suggested a ribbon cutting ceremony when the down town revitalization is completed.

Meeting was adjourned at 9:15 A.M.
Next Meeting Thursday November 10, 2011

September 15, 2011

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce General Meeting

Tom Russell opened the meeting at 8:05 am at Terry’s Cafe in Spirit Lake.

Old business:

• He said the car show was a big success and the Chamber took in around
  $1800.00, less expenses. He gave a report on the governor’s visit to Spirit Lake, making
  Spirit Lake “Capital For A Day.” Lunch was served for around 90 people.
  It was a great opportunity to ask questions of all speakers.
  

Guest Speaker was Rhonda Encinas who represented Priest River Ministries Advocates
for Women, an organization that helps women and children of domestic violence,
offering guidance, personal accountability, support groups, advocacy, education and
emergency shelter, at no cost to the territory it covers. They have two houses for
emergency shelter. They use no government money other than grants and
private donations. They would like to purchase a mobile unit to allow them to go to
outlying areas. Phone # 208-290-6529. She asked for a letter from the chamber
recommending their ministry. Tom made a motion to write the letter. Althea seconded
the motion, motion passed.

New Business:

• Brad Sondahl made a motion to allow a member of the chamber to stay
  on the reader board longer than a week, at no further cost, until another user asks
  for it. If some one orders it for a specic time it will be $20.00 per week for members
  and $30.00 for non-members. Tom seconded the motion, motion passed

• Adept Business announced their next round-table meeting October 4, 2011 at noon,
  topic being Social Media Strategy. Pre-registration is required at the cost of $15.00
  per person.

• Rosemary Wheaton mentioned the Craft Fair on November 5, 2011 for raising money
  for the P T O for the elementary school. Booth’s are $20.00 and the contact person is
  Rosemary at 277-5197.

• Tom brought up the election of new officers for the coming year. Adept Business
  agreed to continue as Treasurer and Helen agreed to continue as Secretary. Next
  meeting will be on October 13 at Terry’s Cafe on Maine Street.

Meeting was adjourned at 9:15 A.M.

August 11, 2011

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

Marc Kroetch opened the meeting at 8:15. 
    Present were four board members.

Old business:

• The Big Back In was reevaluated as a project for the Chamber.
  
  
• Treasurer stated we had $1,303.47 in the general fund.

New Business:

• Marc told of a request for two benches for the Parks and Recreation for the lake project.   One for Jeff Brown and one for the Home Owners Association at the price of $645.00 each.  Cam took the picture to see if she could come up with a lesser expensive bench.

• Marc asked for drivers & workers to help with the bike rides on Labor Day.
  Cam will try to recruit someone.

• The September meeting will be Sept. 15 (instead of Sept. 8) at Terry’s Café at 8:00 A.M.  Since the meetings are always the second Thursday of each month it was decided it was not necessary to call or e-mail member of the meetings. Come on people, take a little initiative and be responsible adults.  The minutes from the meetings are available on spiritlakechamber.com.

• New Spirit Lake Business Directory for 2012 was discussed & tabled to a later date.

Meeting was adjourned at 9:05 A.M.

July 14, 2011

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

Meeting was called to order by Marc Kroetch at 8:24 A. M.
    There were only two members present other than the board members.

Old business:

• Events discussed were wine tasting, car show, vacate the chamber building and what to do with the items that are still there.
  
  
• Pros and cons about the wine tasting were discussed. Marc made the motion to cancel the wine tasting event.  Tom seconded the motion. Motion passed.

New Business:

• It was suggested we could place an ad on Stoneridge TV to make people aware that there is shopping available in Spirit Lake.

• A suggestion was made to have meetings quarterly in lieu of monthly. It was tabled at this time.

Tom adjourned the meeting at 9:12 a.m.

Next meeting to be held August 11th at 8 am.

June 9, 2011

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

Meeting was called to order by president, Tom Russell at 8:05 am.
Review of Board Meeting decisions:

• Mark asked for volunteers to help for the Big Back In on father’s day.
  
  
• Tom gave a report on the sign on the highway and asked if anyone had seen it.  Cam and Mark were instrumental in creating and printing the sign.
  
  
• Diane Gardner of Adept Business Service reported the Chamber has $2,063.03 in the bank.

• David Smith from Sedlemayers Resort was introduced as a new member.  Tom asked him to be our speaker at our next meeting.

• Tom said the steering committee for the downtown revitalization said the surveying has been completed and core samples were taken.
  
  
• Tom said the chamber was abandoning the building at the corner of Maine and Highway 41 and the new information center would be at C’s Train & Antique Shop.  He requested the pick up of any donations, so the building would be empty.
  
  
• The first concert in the park will be June 25, 2011.

• The chamber is not having a business fair. 
  
  
• Adept Business Service is having a “Talk It Up Round Table” on Tuesday, July 12  @ noon. 
  Cost is $15.00.
  
  
• The fire truck tickets have been sold out.
  
  
• Joy Porter asked for donations to Visions for the fire works.
  
  
• Roger Benoit, Republican Central Committee, asked if any one had a problem with a law that was giving a problem to their business and if so he would see what could be done about it.
  
  
• Tom said the day has been changed from Thursday to Friday Sept. 2 for the wine-tasting day, in the little park.
  
  
• The reader board is now available for advertising again.  Althea Sondal is the one to call for your advertising.  Her phone number is 208-691-9533.  

There were approximately 20 members in attendance.
Meeting adjourned by Tom at 8:45 A. M.
Next meeting to be held July 14th at 8 am.

May 12, 2011

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

Meeting was called to order by president Tom Russell at 8 am.
Review of Board Meeting decisions:

• Board Meetings to be held one week before general meeting, to allow time to get agenda and other information out. 
• Chamber is planning to release the Visitors Center Building some time in the near future.  Need to find storage for Chamber items in the building.  Historical Society to remove their items as well.
• Wine Tasting in the Park scheduled for Friday Night Sept 2nd.  Contact Michelle Kelley at 208-659-6355 to volunteer, receive information or donate.

Updates by Tom from the City Council meeting:

• Bluez Fest will be planned and promoted by Mick Jackson in the big park on August 19th (not sure if date is firm).   Renamed Red Wine & Blues.  To include vendors and other attractions.  Will run to 11pm.

Labor Day Activities:

• Sunday & Monday (4th & 5th)
• Interstate Mountain Bike Ride  and car show on the grass will be held on Sunday.
• Rathdrum Lions club will bring the Mustang to be raffled.

Other Chamber  Business:

• Because of recent events, Dave Esterly hasn’t been able to work on the 16th annual HIGHWAY OF FLAGS donation drive.  Donations are needed to replace approximately 40 flags.  Donation cans are in several downtown businesses or donations can be made at the Hardware store.
• Marc & Cam are working on giving the reader board a facelift.
• Lakeside Recreation Center is on schedule to open first of June.  Donations are being accepted of life jackets, bicycles or anything connected to the center.
• Fire Department is raffling off the vintage fire truck. “5 buck fire truck”.  Limit is $10,000.  Have sold about $6,000 to date.
• Spirit Shores paving project was completed last fall, still needs some finishing work.
• Spirit Lake Music will be putting on free concerts in the park on a monthly basis.  Dates are 6/25, 7/23 & 8/27 from 5-7 in the big park.
• Jefferson Park has been treed and ready for grading.  Should be open this summer.
• Reminder of Adept’s roundtable  for June.  Subject:  Contractors vs. Employee.

Guest Speakers:

• Up for election (Nov 17th) to Lakes Highway District
• Diane Fountain
• Chris Craft
• Dan Malcom
• Corky  Witherwax

Next meeting to be held June 9th at 8am.

March 10, 2011

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

• Tom and Marc were out of town on business so Carol was in charge of the meeting.
  
  
• Our guest speaker was Roger Benoit for Precinct #1  in Spirit Lake ID.
  He gave everyone information on Mortgages and Foreclosure.
  
  
• Events for the year were up for discussion. The Big Back In will need volunteers for selling merchandise. We will continue our discussion at our next meeting.
  
  
• We are still excepting Membership Renewal forms for our Business Directory. We can always use your help in getting new members.  Please get them to us as soon as possible.
  
  
• The Wine Tasting event information will be available soon.

• We are waiting to see when the Downtown Revitalization project will begin.
  The Old Pump Station conversion is coming along as planned.
  
  
• We continue to be proud of our community. Join us, become a member and be part of the positive support Spirit Lake deserves.
  
  
• Thank You to Terry's Cafe for hosting the meeting.
  
  
• I will email everyone and let you know where the next meeting will be held.

Chamber Secretary, Carol
Spirit Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

February 19, 2011

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

• Thank you, to all that could attend the Chamber of Commerce meeting. We had quite a few decisions to make. The Chamber has decided not to keep the Welcome Center. We do not use it enough to keep paying the utilities and insurance on the building.
  
  
• This year we are going to concentrate on the events that bring business to our town.
  
  
• The Chamber will be a sponsor for The Big Back In. It has always been a successful event for the town and brings quite a few people to all our businesses on Maine Street.
  
  
• The Chamber will do Labor Day at the Park on Sunday and Visions will have Monday.
  
  
• We will keep everyone informed when the Wine Tasting will be.

• We are still working on the building at the lake. It will be ready sometime this summer.
  
  
• One of our speakers for this month was: Victoria King from Kaniksu Health Services.
         They provide communities with affordable and accessible health care.
         Email Vicki for information: vicki@kaniksuhealthservices.org
         Phone number is 208-267-8420

  Our other speaker was: Ellen Larson she is involved with Nita.
         For information visit: www.visitnorthidaho.com

  Thank you to both of our speakers for bringing all the information to us.
  

• Because the Junior Miss group helped us sell tickets for the snow blower drawing and because we are one of their sponsors we donated $200.00 to the group.  The money was part of proceeds from the snow blower drawing.
  
  
• Our next meeting is on 3/10 2011 at 8:00am. We are meeting at Terry's Cafe on Maine Street. I will send out a reminder next month.

Chamber Secretary, Carol
Spirit Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

January 13, 2011

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

• Snow Blower drawing is on the 15th at the High School.
  
  
• We are working on getting our Business Directory & Resource Guide together. Make sure to get your application in as soon as you can. Call Carol or Marc if you need any information.
  
  
• Our Spirit Lake Winter Fun Fest is happening on 1/29/2011. We are having a Chili Challenge
  So if you want to whip up your best chili and enter the contest just let me know. The Chili needs to be in a Crock Pot and if you have an extra extension cord bring it along. We need the chili at the little park at 10:30. The games will start at 11:00. So get your team ready for the competition. Lots of fun stuff for the Kids.
  
  
• Events for Spirit Lake:

Business Fair-- 6/16/2011

Big Back In--6/19/20

Wine Tasting-- 9/2/2011

Labor Day-- 9/4/2011

If you are a Chamber Member and you are a vendor on Sunday you will not be charged a fee.
Visions will be in charge of the park on Monday so you will have to pay them a vendor fee for that day.

Our town will also have a parade on Monday.

• Press Release from Y.E.S. Juvenile Support Program

  Individuals who are interested in volunteering to assist at-risk youth with tutoring, mentoring, transportation. community service supervision, life skills lessons, or helping with fundraising activities are invited to join us for our 2011 organizational meeting. No experience is necessary: just a willing heart to help a child. Volunteers will be required to pass a background check before working with our juvenile participants.

  Meeting will be Monday January 24th at Spirit lake Books and Coffee at 7pm.
  For additional information contact Crystal Owens at (208)691-9153
  spiritlakeyes@yahoo.com  Visit our website www.spiritlakeyes.org 

Chamber Secretary, Carol
Spirit Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

December 9, 2010

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

• Our Chamber has purchased a new snow blower to raffle off. Tickets are being sold all over town. If you would like to help sell tickets they are at Marc's business. The more members that we have selling the tickets the more money we can make. The members can also purchase tickets. This is a good way to support your Chamber of Commerce. Tickets are a $1.00 a piece or 6 for $5.00. The drawing will be held January 17,2010.
  
  
• Thank you to Becki Gaddum for another fun filled day for the Elementary School Children. What more could you ask for (Santa,cookies, hot chocolate and Christmas Music). Thank you to the High school band for the music and the girls who supplied the cookies. The children collected a lot of food for our food bank. Thank you to all of our helpers. When everyone volunteers it is a great help.
  
  
• Our next big event is the second annual Winter Fest. January 29,2011 at 10:00. Let the games begin. We will also have a Chili cook off. Maine street will be blocked off for all the snow that will be in the street. Hopefully we will have snow this year. For information on all the events get in touch with Tom at 208-819-6419 or Marc at 208-623-5130. Fun was had by all that attended last year. The children had a ball with the sledding. Get all the info on the games that you will be able to compete in. Business get your teams together.
  
  
• We need to keep Stoneridge Resort informed on what events are going on in the town. They are one of our supporters.
  
  
• The Chamber is busy putting together our 2011 Business Directory. So don't be left out. Get in touch with Marc to put your ad in. It is very inexpensive way to advertise. If you need an application give me a call and I will send you one.
  
  
• We are looking for money makers to Raffle off so that we can build up our Treasury funds. If you have anything or know of someone who would like to donate let us know.
  
  
• The Chamber is always doing something to improve our town. The project on the lake is going as planned. The cement floor is finished and we are counting on having it done by next summer.
  This project will bring a lot of revenue to our town.
  
  

If you need any information on any of the events just give me a call at 623-3411.

Chamber Secretary, Carol
Spirit Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

November 11, 2010

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

• We had a great turnout for everyone meeting Butch Otter. Our Governor had the time to meet and talk to our 6th grade school children. Thank you to all who took the time to make this event possible in our town.
  
  
• We had the elections for our Chamber Board. Tom Russell is our Chamber President, Marc is our Vice President and Carol is the Secretary. Adept Accounting is going to be our Treasurer.
  
  
• The Chamber will be taking over the water bill for the Welcome Center.
  
  
• Santa will be at the VFW building on 12/04/2010 from 1:00 to 3:00. Visions will be the Host for the event.
  
  
• Santa will be at 4TH and Main Pizza 12/10/2010 at 1:00.
  
  
• The Elementary School will be having a food drive. The winning classes will win a prize. The Food Bank will donate the hot chocolate. The High School will donate the cookies. Our school Band will also play for everyone.
  
  
• The Fire Department will be collecting Food on 12/11/2010 and 12/12/2010. The map for the streets that they will be going to will be in the paper. You can also contact the Fire Station.
  
  
• The third annual Parent Teachers Craft Fair will be on 12/04/2010 at 10:00 to 4:00 and 12/05/2010 at 11:00 to 3:00. It will be in the Gym at the Elementary School.
  
  
• Visions Toys for Tots will be on 12/18/2010 from 11:00 to 2:00.
  You can drop any donated toys off at the Pawn Shop.
  
  
• The members of the Chamber voted to change our meeting time.
  We will have the next Meeting at the Book Store on 12/09/2010 at 8:00AM.
  The Book Store opens at 7:30 AM if you would like to get there earlier.
  Hopefully this will work out better for everyone.

If you need any information on any of the events just give me a call at 623-3411.

Chamber Secretary, Carol
Spirit Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

October 14, 2010

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

• Our elections for Chamber officers will be next month. If you would like to volunteer for any of the openings let us know. It would be great to have as many people attend as possible.
  
  
• Our Guest Speaker was Roger Benoit from Precinct #1 Spirit Lake. He was here to let us know about Butch Otter coming to Spirit Lake.
          Our Governor was here on 10/22/2010 around 12:00 noon.
          It was an open forum for anyone who had a question.
  
  
• Our Chamber will be discussing at our next meeting what you want our Chamber to do for our town. What time you would like to have our meetings (morning, afternoon or night). One every month or one every three or four months. Please come we need your input.
  
  
• We are still planning on having our lake project completed by this summer.
  What are your ideas on this project?
  
  
• We are having the Winter Fun Fest again on 1/29/2011. Sponsored by Spirit Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and Spirit Lake Parks & Recreation.
  We had a great turn out last winter. The kids played all day. Everyone filled up on Chili and Hot Chocolate. I will keep you updated on what events we will be having this winter.
  
  
• Our next meeting is on Thursday, 11/11/2010, 12:00 noon at the Community Center. Hope to see everyone. It is an important meeting. Call me if you need any information.
  208-623-3411

If you need any information on anything give Carol a call. 208-623-3411.

Carol Chapman
Secretary of the Spirit Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

September 9, 2010

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

Tom opened the meeting and thanked everyone for coming.

• We discussed the Wine Tasting event. Everyone had a good time and we did very well on the auction.
   Michelle Kelly did an excellent job on getting the winery's to attend. They did a great job. Wine
  
  
• We are hoping to have new lighting in the park by next year.
  
  
• The Slushy machine is up for discussion at a later date. We need to find a new way to make money when we use it.
  
  
• The building at the lake is our project for this year. When it is finished we will have to find someone to work at the building. We talked about getting in touch with the High School and finding students that would like to help out.
  
  
• We would like to get ideas on our Labor Day on The Grass for next year. Do we want to cut back on the days that we have it? What events were the best and most entertaining? If you have any ideas call me at the Chamber Phone # 208-623-3411.
  
  
• What would you like to see the Chamber do for our town? What events interest you as the people who live in Spirit Lake? Your input would be greatly appreciated. Come to our meetings and give us your ideas or give me a call.

If you need any information on anything give Carol a call. 208-623-3411.

Carol Chapman
Secretary of the Spirit Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

August 12, 2010

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

Discussion of the Day was all our events that are coming up.

• Wine Tasting Sept. 2nd, 2010 from 6:00 to 9:00pm at the Little Park
  • Sponsors for the Wine tasting are Spirit Lake Family Dental, Perfection Tire in Rathdrum, Trademarc Sign & Display, Inland Northwest Bank and 4th& Main Pizza Family Restaurant.
  • Labor Day on the Grass Sept. 3-5th All day until Dark.
    
    
• Mountain Bike Ride from Mt. Spokane For info 208-623-5130
  • Bike Ride is $40.00 Includes Bus Ride, T-Shirt and Picture of the launch. Water & Cookies will be available.
    
    
• We also have a Car and Motorcycle Show on Sept. 5th
  • For info call 208-623-3411 or 208-818-4371
    
    
• Here are a few more events in Spirit Lake City Park on Labor Day Weekend:
  • Live Music, Antique Gas Engines, Cd’A Muzzleloaders Encampment, Dutch Oven Cookery Demonstrations, Beer Garden and More.
  • For more info call Carol at 208-623-3411.
  • Come and join in all the Fun. Lots of fun stuff for the kids.
    
    
• Blues Fest is Aug. 28th from 2:00 to 10:00pm Tickets are $15.00 or $20.00 at the gate.
  • Three Bands on the street and Bands at the White Horse and Linger Longer Lounge.(info 208-623-4900)
  • We also have tickets for a drawing: Two Nights for up to 4 people at Stoneridge. 208-623-3411. $5.00 each only 100 tickets being sold.
  • We need volunteers for the Slushy Machine for the Blues Fest.
  • Call Carol at 623-3411.
    
    
• Marc needs help putting up lights at the park for the Wine Tasting.
  • We will meet at the little park Aug. 28th at 9:00am to put them up.
  • Bring a ladder if you can. Hope to see your smiling faces.
    
    
• If you go into town you will see how Good our side walks look. Thank You to all the people in our town who volunteered to fix them up. Thank You Cam for motivating everyone.
  
  
• Marc will let everyone know when we need help on our project down on the lake. When it is finished we will be able to offer Bike, Canoe and Paddle boat rentals in the summer. Get involved in our community. We want to create a positive and vibrant business network that is attractive to new businesses and tourism.

If you need any information on anything give Carol a call. 208-623-3411.

Carol Chapman
Secretary of the Spirit Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

July 8, 2010

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

• It was a beautiful day to have our meeting on the lake. Thank you to Rod Erickson for letting us have our BBQ under the shade trees. Thank you to all that brought food to share. We had a variety of dishes and great deserts. The slushy machine was a success.

• Thursday, Sept 2nd will be the annual Spirit Lake Wine Tasting event in the little park. Tickets to the tasting are $20 each and include a wine glass, 4 tastes, hors d’oeuvres, music and a live auction. This year we will have representatives from Coeur d’Alene Cellars, Fontaine Winery in Yakima, Tieton Cider Works in Tieton, Wa, CD’A Brewery. We are very excited to add a hard cider company to the mix this year.

• We need to put in our order for our customized stem less wine glasses which are included in the price of a ticket. The glasses have the Chamber logo etched on one side and your company logo on the other side. Please let Michelle Kelly know if you would like to be a sponsor of the wine tasting by ordering a case of 36 glasses with your Company logo on them. The price is $216 including tax. They are done by a local business in Post Falls.

• Michelle plans to have the tickets ready to hand out at our August meeting. Let her know if you would like a book of tickets for your self or to sell. This is a great, fun event and we would love to see all of you there.

  You can email or call:
  Michelle Kelly
  Spiritcreekcatering@gmail.com
  208-659-6355
  P.S. We are still in need of auction items, if you have anything or know of anyone who would like to donate.

• Labor Day on the Grass Spirit Lake, Idaho 2010

  Thursday Sept 2nd, Wine Tasting
  Friday Sept.3rd, Talent show at the big park
  Sat Sept.4th, Bike ride. It will last about 3 hours.
  Sunday Sept. 5th,  Car and Motorcycle Show at the big park.
  For info get in touch with Jack at 623-4900 or Dean at 818-4371.
  For more info on the bike ride get in touch with Marc.
  For info on the Vendors get in touch with Jeanne at madamejeanne55@aol.com or 208-263-3129

• Jim Lynn said that the bike ride is a family affair. All ages are able to enjoy the ride. Youngest last year was 12 and oldest is 80 years old.

• Sept. 4th, Saturday. Spirit Lake Walk and Paddle Poker Run. Registration is at 10:30 at The New Recreation Center (Spirit Lake boat launch). For further details call 660-3224.

• The family and friends of Jim Brown Sr. will have a celebration of his life at the park that same weekend. There will be some great music and entertainment for all to enjoy.

• Spirit Lake Recreation and Parks are looking for two board members if you are interested call Marc at 623-5130.

• We are still working on the lake project. Everyone was able to see the progress on the renovation at our meeting. If you have something to donate or would like to help get in touch with Tom at 819-6419 or Marc at 623-5130.

If you need any information on anything give Carol a call. 208-623-3411.

Carol Chapman
Secretary of the Spirit Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

June 17, 2010

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

Tom opened the meeting.

• Tom said that the Golf Cart with the slushy machine is done and it was outside if everyone wanted to see it. It was built to help raise money for the Chamber. The price for the rental of the machine is $50.00. We already have two people that are going to rent it. One is for a wedding. What a great idea for making drinks. Thanks for Trademarc Displays for decorating it. The machine looks great. It will be good for all occasions.

• The Big BackIn is on 6/20/2010, Fathers Day. It is another event that the Chamber sponsors and supports. The money that they make will be used for our project on the lake. They get advertising on the radio station KPND 95.3.

• Our Business Fair has been changed to 6/24/2010 because of the weather. It is at Inland Northwest Bank in Spirit Lake from 4:00 to 7:00 pm. Everyone is invited.

• Our next meeting will be a picnic at the Lake. Tom will have a BBQ and it will be potluck. Everyone will get the chance to check out the progress on our lake project. It is coming along as planned.

• The next Chamber meeting will be on 07/08/2010, at 12:00 noon. Bring a chair if you can. It should be fun to do something outside and enjoy the weather while we can. Bring a friend. Call Carol for more information at 208-623-3411.

• Adept Business Services wanted to remind everyone that they are having an open house. It is their 15 year anniversary celebration. Date 07/15/2010 at 4:00 to 7:00pm. They are there to help you with tax and financial tips.

• Jeannie Bruner is setting up a web-site for the Blues Fest. We will keep you updated.

• Our wine tasting is Sept. 2nd. We will send more information as it becomes available.

• The Business Directory is out and available to everyone. If you need any go to Marc’s shop and pick them up. Tom will be delivering some when he gets a chance.

If you need any information on anything give Carol a call. 208-623-3411.

Carol Chapman
Secretary of the Spirit Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

March 13, 2010

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

Tom opened the meeting and everyone introduced themselves.

• Jeannie Bruner gave an update on the Earth Day Celebration. With the weather being cold and windy we only had four vendors show up. We did make $145.39 profit after everything was paid for. Next year will be much better. The Exhibitors were; PEVA 70s City Car, Electric Tracker, Electric 4x4 big hit, Kootenai Recycle Center, Voodoo Alterative Power solar information, Search & Rescue dog demonstration. The live music was hosted by George Jammers, Brad Sondahl, Shane R & Conor of Dark Horse, Fiddlin Al, & Conor’s friend 17 year old Cody. Thank You Jeannie and George for all your hard work. Thank you to all the people that donated their time to help with this event.
  

• Jeannie is also looking for small clothing for the Scarecrows that she makes for the children at the park on Labor Day weekend. She could also use ribbons. If you have anything to donate give Carol a call on the Chamber phone. 208-623-3411.
  
  
• Roxanne gave an update on the Business Fair. Date; June 17th Time: 4:00 to 7:00
  Place: INB Bank in Spirit Lake. For information :208-623-5700.
  Highlight your business to local customers and network with other business owners!
  Admission is FREE. There will be food and drinks, raffles, giveaways, entertainment and fun for the kids. Tell a friend or two, let’s make this our biggest fair ever. The public is welcome to come and meet your business owners.
  
  
• Our yearly Big Back In (Lawn Mower Races ) Is on Father’s Day. June 20th. Vendors will be set up by 10:00 or 11:00. Racers need to be checked in by 11:00. The parade lines up at 11:00 and starts at 12:00 Noon. Races start at 1:00. Bring your whole family for a day of fun and adventure. For information call Marc at 208-623-5130. You can also get the rules and regulations on the internet: http://www.bigbackin.com
  
  
• We are also bringing the Blues Fest Back. The Date: August 28th. Tickets are $15.00 before the event or $20.00 at the gate. Tickets are available at the INB Bank, Linger Longer and White Horse in Spirit Lake. We need vendors for this event for info get in touch with Jeannie at 208-263-3129. Web site is: http://spiritlakebluesfest.webs.com
  You can get in touch with Carol at 208-623-4900 or Deb at 208-755-5434.
  
  
• Carla Street is doing boxes full of goodies for our Deployed people that are in the Service. She is looking for address of anyone that you may have in your family, friends
  or you could help spread the word. She is also looking for meat or fruit that can be dehydrated ,small items like hand wipes. Deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, magazines and anything that they could use. She would like to send boxes out in July and December. For info call Carla at 208-623-2562. Most of the stuff can be found at the dollar stores.
  
  
• Lakeland School District No 272 are our guest’s today. Tom Taggart, Brad Murray, Dr. Mary Ann Ranells and Brook Cunningham. Tom Taggart spoke about the upcoming 2010 Supplemental Levy. The Lakeland Board of Trustees has authorized a Supplemental Levy Election, which would raise $3,250,000 for each of the next two years. The measure would provide funding to continue the outstanding educational services for which Lakeland is known.
  
  
• Another guest was Jeri DeLange she is running for State Representative District 3, Seat A www.jeridelange.com or jdelange@verizon.net Voting is on May 25th 2010.
  
  
• Our renovation on the former pump house on the lake is coming along . The new roof has been completed. Thank you to all that donated your time. We will be starting on the inside soon. Get in touch with Marc at 208-623-5130 if you would like to help .
  
  
• Our Business Directory should be out soon. Thank You to all our members and everyone that put an ad in. I will let you know when the books are ready.

                                                                                Secretary for Chamber, Carol

April 8, 2010

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

Tom Russell opened the meeting with everyone introducing themselves.

• First to speak was Cam who is ahead of our Used Batteries for the Chamber Golf Cart.
  Dave at the Spirit Lake hardware is storing the used batteries for us. So if you have any that you would like to donate you can drop them off at the hardware or get in touch with Cam and she will arrange to have them picked up. You can also call the Chamber at 208-623-3411 and we will take care of it for you.
  
  
• Jeanne Bruner is putting on an Earth Day for Spirit Lake. Earth Day is 40 years old.
  It will be on Saturday, April 24th 10am to 5pm on Maine ST. Spirit Lake, ID.
  Panhandle Electric Vehicle Association will be there. Come and see the electric cars.
  Recycled Art and Green Living Contests. Live Music ~ Food ~ Vendors
  For more information call Jeanne at 208-263-3129 or madamejeanne55@aol.com.
  Come and Celebrate with us and join in all the fun. Vendor info at the same E-Mail.
  
  
• Julie Turley was giving out information for the Timberlake Junior Miss. The mission of America’s Junior Miss is to empower outstanding high school women by providing Scholarship opportunities, developing life skills, and encouraging positive values; and to Impact the lives of all young people through the Be Your Best Self outreach program.
  If you would like to sponsor this event get in touch with Julie at 208-623-3123.
  The Chamber is one of the Sponsors.
  
  
• Les Schwab Tire Centers has joined our membership. They are very interested in helping out the area Schools and Children’s Groups.
  
  
• We are almost ready to put together our Chamber Directory so if you want to be included call the Chamber at 208-623-3411 or get in touch with Tom or Marc. You do not want to be left out. It is great advertising and covers a large area to be distributed to.
  
  
• Joy Porter reminded everyone about the American Legion Bingo. Call the Athol Legion for info.
  
  
• Tonya wanted all to know that the Parks and Recreation Dept. has there meeting at 6:00pm on the last Wed. of every month. It will be held at the La Sierra Mexican. Restaurant in Spirit Lake.
  
  
• We are going full force on our project to complete the renovation on the Pump house down by the lake. Donations have been coming in. We have 6 paddle boats and Phyllis Brown has been a big help in getting a discount on the metal roofing. Thank You, Phyllis.
  
  
• If you have anything to donate or would like to help us on the project get in touch with Tom or Marc and you can always call me on the Chamber phone 208-623-3411.
  
• Thank you to Michelle Kelly for providing our lunch.

                                                                                Secretary for Chamber, Carol

March 11, 2010

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

Tom opened the meeting and everyone introduced themselves.

• We met the new business people in town. (The Pegorah Spirit Center)  We are always interested in bringing new business into our town. Every one stop by and say welcome and find out what they have to offer.

• Another new business is The North Idaho Collection owned by Cam Criswell. Stop in to see all the local art and antiques that she has displayed in her store.

• Cam gave us an update on how well we are doing on our old battery round up. You can bring all of your old batteries to Dave at the hardware store in town. The Chamber is going to turn all the old ones in for help on buying new ones for our lemonade slushy golf cart. We will be using it to make extra money this summer. It will be at all our events and can be used by our Chamber members for their events.

• We discussed getting new signs up to let visitors know where our public restrooms are located. The Chamber is checking into who is in charge of making sure that the restrooms are opened every day.

• It was brought up that we need to clean up around the reader board and how to make it look better. Make it look more interesting and let the visitors know about our lake and what we have to offer.

• Our guest speaker was Duane Rasmussen. He is running to become an official candidate for retiring Rep. Jim Clark’s seat.

• Our other guest speaker was Mary Dickson she is ahead of the Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions classes.
  If you are interested in taking one of the classes you can reach Mary at 208-623-6040.

We are excited about all our activities that we will have going on in Spirit Lake this year.

• Business Fair 6/17/2010
• Big Back In--6/20/2010
• Parade and fireworks 7/4/2010
• Blues Fest 8/28/2010
• Labor Day Weekend 9/4-6/2010

If I have missed anything it will be in next month’s letter.
You can call me at the Chamber phone 208-623-3411 at anytime for information.

You can get in touch with Tonya with the Parks and Recreation Department if you have any questions about the sports that are going on in our area. 208-623-2131.

                                                                                                            Carol

February 11, 2010

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

Tom Russell opened the meeting and everyone introduced themselves.

• Tonya from the Parks and Recreation let everyone know that she still had a few children size shirts left from the Winter Fest. For info call Tonya at 208-660-3224.
  
  
• Basketball is almost over and soccer will be starting. If you would like to volunteer or be a sponsor for soccer get in touch with Tonya.
  
  
• We would like to thank the City of Spirit Lake for all the help with Winter Fest.
  
  
• Our golf cart that we are making into a traveling lemonade stand is in need of a battery. Cam is starting a (Recycled Batteries Program) so if you have a car, boat, truck, or a motorcycle battery that you would like to donate we will pick them up. You can also drop them off at the hardware store. The hardware in Spirit Lake is going to store them for us. When we turn in the used batteries the money will be used for a new one. Thank you Cam for the great idea.
  
  
• Guest speaker this month was Amanda from Cedar Mountain Ins. Her phone number is 208-683-3500 if you need information about insurance. She is located in Athol.
  
  
• New Business; The Chamber would like to bring Roger Brooks to town for a seminar. Over the past 25 years Roger Brooks and his award winning Destination Development team have assisted more than 800 communities in their effort to become outstanding destinations. Great places to live, work and to visit. We would like to invite our surrounding towns to share in this project. We will be looking for sponsors to help pay for the seminar. If you are interested in helping get in touch with Tom or Marc.
  
  
• The lights that are shining in our town are bringing people in to see what we have to offer. They were just passing through but decided to stop and eat or have ice cream. That is what we want for our town is to send people away happy so that they will come back again.
  
  
• Our website will be updated with upcoming events and projects.

If you need information on anything that has to do with our town get in touch with Carol at 208-623-3411. That is our Chamber of Commerce phone number.

Thank you to Duke and Denise at the Hideaway Café for a great lunch.

                                                                             Chamber Secretary, Carol

  January 14, 2010

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

Tom Russell opened the meeting;

• The tree of sharing was very successful. Thank you to everyone who helped makes a better Christmas for the children in our town.

• Tonya from parks & recreation gave her report on how well the community has come together to support the basketball teams. She also gave us an update on the Winter Fest.  Thank you to all the people that volunteered.

• The Winter Fest is on 1/23/2010. Sign up for the games is at 10:00. The games will start at 11:00.

• The Chamber would like to but together a golf cart to sell lemonade. The cart was donated by Jody Count and we will check into a used slushy machine. We are going to use the lemonade cart to make money for the Chamber. The Chamber members will have the use of the machine for their own projects also. Michelle made a motion to except the proposal and Mark 2nd it.
• It will be a fun project to put together.

• Roxanne talked about a new reward checking account that they are offering at the INB bank in town. Get in touch with Roxanne for more information.

• Thank you to Tom for all the write ups that he puts in the Star paper about our towns activities.

• Taryn Hecker Photography is running great special on photos. She is also doing glamour photos for Valentine day.
  
  
• The guest speaker this month is Diane from Adept Business Services. The business is located in Rathdrum, ID. They are offering $25.00 off new client services. Give them a call for more info at
  208-687-0508.   Website -  www.adeptbusinessservices.com

New Business;

• Marc Kroetch talked about everyone getting their new membership dues in so we can put together our new business directory. We will update the pictures on our web site of the new officers. We also have a new calendar for all of our events. If you have anything to put on the calendar get in touch with Carol.
  
  
• We will be getting ready for the Big Back In and the Business Fair.

• Our new boat launch looks great.
  
  
• We need bids for the new recreation center that will be down by the lake.  We hope to have kayaking, swimming; boating and biking .Construction will begin in May.

• The pathway and lighting by the Junior High School is being used by many students.
  
  
• Thank you to the Spirit Lake urban renewal district.
  
  
• We are a walking town (2010 WILL BE A BIG YEAR FOR US) our projects will be completed.
  
  
• We are starting something new for our luncheon meeting; PLEASE RSVP If you plan on eating, It will save the Chamber money to know how much to buy. Keep in touch with Carol at idbikerckc@verizon.net or 208-623-3411

 Thank you, Carol

December 10, 2009

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

• Many of you have noticed that our town has that holiday spirit.The Chamber and friends have decorated the town. Thank you to the Chamber for donating all the lights.The businesses in town also gave of there time and donated items. Thank you to all that helped. Roxanne our new Treasurer is putting a group together to decorate the park and the Chamber building.
• Our Chamber membership drive is starting this week. If anyone needs an application please get in touch with Carol Chapman at idbikerckc@verizon.net. She will get it right out to you.
• Carol will be in touch with Becky about changing the Chamber phone over to Carol's home.
  That way there will be someone to answer and give out information.

New business:

• Our guest speaker is our new Mayor Todd Clary. Todd thanked the Chamber for hosting the Candidate Forum. He wants our town to move forward in a positive direction.
• Sue Fox and Cathy Graf are heading up the tree of caring. The tree will be in the business around town. It has all the names and ages of all the people that need our help in having a better Christmas. The Chamber voted to donate $15.00 and pick a person to buy a present for. Roxanne will be doing the shopping.
• The Spirit Lake Parks and Recreation will be having a Spirit Lake Winter Fun Fest. The Chamber will be helping out with food and to round up volunteers to give a helping hand. The event will be January 23,2010 from 10:00am-4:00pm.  For more information call Tonya@ 623-2131 or 660-3224. If you have any ideas, suggestions or want to volunteer give her a call.
• The Chamber will be keeping the same time and place for our meetings.
  • Second Thursday of the month
  • Community Center 12:00 noon luncheon.
• Thank you to Michelle Kelly for supplying the lunch today. The soup and fixings were great.
• We have a web site that everyone can use visit idaho.org gives info on what is going on in our town. Go to update idaho.com if you would like to update or add an event going on in our area.

I will see everyone at the next meeting 01-14-2010. Carol

November 12,2009

Spirit Lake Chamber of Commerce Meeting

Minutes
12 attendees
Last meeting 22 attendees
Next meeting December 10th at noon

• Our President seat has been filled by Tom Russell after Shelley Tschida made a motion with Sue Fox and Carol Chapman seconding the motion.  Tom will accept the position for at least one year. Michelle will assist Tom and Mark offered his assistance at Co-Chair to Tom.  Congratulations Tom.

• Our resident accountant here in Spirit Lake, who is a Chamber member, will be approached by Tom, Mark and Carol and asked if they would be interested in the Secretary Treasurer position available in the Chamber.

• Roxanne Kusler was also nominated for the Sec. Treasurer position so she will also be approached for the position.

• It was stated that Renee is still the Corporate contact for the Chamber on the web site. This needs to be addressed and corrected.

• Due to the election being very close, there will be another ‘Meet the candidate’ session on Thursday November 19,2009 at 6 p.m. at the elementary school.

      If anyone has questions, they are to email them to Roxanne Kusler at        rkusler@inb.com

• Fish and Game has returned the lease agreement back to the city involving the  boat docks.  City council has authorized the Mayor to sign the lease for 5 years, terms being: Spirit Lake will renovate the building for functions.  Our Chamber is backing the Pump House renovation.

• The Big Back-in funds will go to renovate the Pump House which is scheduled to open to the public in 2011.

• Revenue is in the black = money left over.  Would like to use some of those monies to acquire Carol Chapman as secretary and pay her $350.00 a month salary. Motion was made by Sue Fox to accept Carol as secretary and to pay her a salary.  Cat Kirk seconded the motion. Passed. Congratulations Carol.

• Phone lines from the Welcome center will be transferred to Carols home and she will also need templates of letterheads and all information concerning her new duties.

• A questions asked; Can the Chamber include and recognize businesses from surrounding towns.  This should not be a problem, wording would have to change from Spirit Lake Chamber to Spirit Lake and surrounding Chamber.

• End of football season should be a great time to have our Winter festival featuring Snow Sculptures, Ice Rink and a Chili Cook-off.  This sounds like a great time for everyone!

• The visitors center building on Hwy 41 and Main Street is for sale and the entire property (10 ½ city lots) is listed at $400,000.00 whereas the building on 2 city lots could be sold separately for $275,000.00.

• December 11th at 1:30 at 4th and Main Pizza, Santa will arrive on a fire truck for the kids to enjoy!

  Farmers Market report:    May = 2 attendees
  June = 7 attendees
  July = 1 attendee
  August = 1 attendee
  Budget of $300.00 for advertising. Actual costs: $292.60.
  Compensation to Russ was half of income which, total income is $110.00.

• Lunch brought in by Cat Kirk and The Linger Longer Lounge. Thank you Cat.

• Tom's closing words:

          The Chamber needs to work with City Hall to bring our assets to the front.  We should look at every challenge in a positive manner.