Chamber Welcomed UPS Store - Sandpoint

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome the UPS Store- Sandpoint. Located at 217 Cedar St, The UPS Store – Sandpoint has been a family business in Sandpoint for 19 years and carries on the tradition with the Batchelor’s.

Brett and Joy Batchelor recently purchased the UPS Store – Sandpoint from Bill Clatworthy and are excited to be serving Sandpoint in a new way. The UPS Store – Sandpoint has broken the mold to the well-known shipping store and offers printing and copying, as well as Secured Document Destruction. As owners of Busy Beaver Graphics and Promotions, they make the UPS Store – Sandpoint a place for more than just shipping, it is a place to come to for many areas of your personal and professional needs like graphics, promotional items and more.

“We’re much more than shipping. Whether you need business cards, brochures, flyers or to print off an email, come use our public computer to make copies and your printing needs, plus we’ll get it to you at the best prices in our area,” said owner Brett Batchelor. “Identity theft is tragically on the rise but there are sure fire ways to combat it, one being document shredding. Bring your documents to us for the most affordable secured document destruction in town.”

The UPS Store – Sandpoint has new hours. They are open Monday-Friday from 8am-6pm and Saturday from 8am-4pm. They are also one of the few places you can do your USAA deposits with our new check scanner.

“We’re still a great shipping resource for local businesses, especially the retail sector, and visitors alike. If someone has purchased too much for their carryon, send them down to us so we can ship their favorite Sandpoint items back home for them. Lately, we’ve been told we have some of the funniest greeting cards in town.”

Please join the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce in welcoming UPS Store- Sandpoint and wishing them continued success in our community. For more information, give them a call 263-0261, visit them at their store at 217 Cedar St, email them at store1829@theupsstore.com and Like them on Facebook.  

In photo left to right: Kate McAlister, Chad Beck, Brett Batchelor, Joy Batchelor, Representative George Eskridge, Jim Lovell, Clem Hackworthy and Chuck Brewster. 

NORTHLAND CELEBRATES OUR HOMETOWN HEROS

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(May 27^th, 2014)

Beginning June 1^st, Northland will launch their Hometown Hero contest which will honor those who make a positive impact in the Sandpoint community. The nomination period will run through June 30^th.  Northland invites community members to submit nominations online or in the local Northland office for fellow neighbors who have gone above and beyond to enrich the lives of others. 

Three finalists will be chosen and voting for the award winner will open to the public July 7^th through July 20^th. The winning Hometown Hero will receive $250 and a $500 donation to a local charity of sponsor’s choice. Those who submit a nomination and vote will be entered for a chance to win a $250 gift card.

Northland’s Business Manager, Jeff Johnson said “I am pleased to be a part of this community, as are the local Northland staff, and as the local communications provider in Sandpoint, we are invested in this town and its residents. We wanted to take a moment to recognize and give back to community members who make this such a great place to live and work.”

Nominations and voting will be available at getnorthland.com/hero, at the local Northland office, or on Northland’s Facebook page.

For more details about the contest and Official Rules, visit getnorthland.com/hero or stop by the local Northland office.

About Northland Communications:

Northland Communications (www.yournorthland.com) is a leading provider of communications services. Northland owns and manages smaller-market cable systems in Alabama, California, Georgia, Idaho, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Washington. Northland is headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Northland offers the sharpest Digital and True High Definition TV, the fastest High-Speed Internet, and the clearest Digital Home Phone services to individuals and businesses in the communities they serve.  

###

Kelsey Teel

(206)748-5064

kelsey@northlandco.com

Chamber Honors Bonner County Gardeners Association

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize the Bonner County Gardner’s Association (BCGA) as the April Business of the Month. They provide research based Home Horticultural Educational Programs, Community Service and assist in Beautification Projects for our surrounding communities.

The BCGA does a lot to support local groups and causes. They assist with school gardens and donated the new bench to Farmin’ Park. They’ve also assisted in the beautifying efforts at the Bonner County Fairgrounds, flower baskets for downtown Sandpoint, landscaping the Mickinick Trail and the Water Life Discovery Center.

Watch the BCGA accept their award, click here >>

The BCGA also holds and attends many different educational classes and outreach events including the Fall Home Hort Series, Spring Plant Sale, Garden Tours, Home and Garden Show, Farmers’ Market and many others.

Please join the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce in congratulating Bonner County Gardeners Association for their success and thanking them for their commitment to our community. For more information, call them at 265-2070, email them at bcga2013@hotmail.com or go to www.bcgardeners.org.

In photo: left to right, Carol Warren and Janae Dale.

Chamber Celebrates Idaho Department of Labor’s New Location

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome the Idaho Department of Labor to their new location at 613 Ridley Village Rd, Suite C in Sandpoint.

“We love the fact we are all on the ground floor, it makes it so much easier and accessible for everyone,” said Bridgette Bradshaw-Fleer, Sandpoint Manager. “Our new offices have an open and inviting atmosphere with plenty of space.”

They would like to welcome the public for an Open House on May 9^th from 2-4pm. Ken Edmunds, Director of the Department of Labor, and Kelly Sharp, Area Manager for Dept of Labor, will be in attendance to show support for the new location. Light refreshments will be served.

“Visit us for help finding jobs, interview skills, resume writing and retraining help. There are available funds.”

Please join the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce in welcoming the Idaho Department of Labor to their new location and thanking them for their continued support of our labor force. For more information, visit their offices at 613 Ridley Village Rd in Sandpoint or call 263-7544. 

In photo: left to right Clem Hackworthy, Corrie Greene, Kate McAlister, Jim Lovell, Alice Wallace, Landon Fuller, Richard Hunter, George Eskridge, Leslie Apple, Bridgette Bradshaw-Fleer, Lisa McLeod, Diana Cartwright, Don Sturm, Steve Case and Carol Warren.  

Chamber Welcomes Dr. Mark William Cochran, Holistic Chiropractor

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome Dr. Mark William Cochran, Holistic Chiropractor. He is located in the Selkirk Professional Building in downtown Sandpoint on the corner of 4th & Pine St, 101 N. 4th Avenue, Suite 105. He’s been practicing Chiropractic work in north Idaho since 2001, starting in downtown Coeur d’Alene, and moved to Sandpoint in 2009. While his office here is growing, he still maintains one day a week in his office in Hayden.

“As a holistic chiropractor, I work with health conscious, holistic minded people – who happen to be struggling with pain or injury – to heal their pain and reclaim their health and well-being from the inside out,” said Dr Cochran. “The adjustments I provide are gentle, precise, comfortable, safe and effective. My office has a warm, pleasant and healing atmosphere, not a clinical one.”

 Dr. Cochran takes a deeply holistic approach to healing, health and well-being by working with every person's own unique "Doctor Within."

 "To me, you are much more than just a collection of symptoms and problems; you are a whole, vibrant, living being with an amazing capacity to heal from the inside out. I form a partnership with you and your Doctor Within to address your health challenges, but more importantly, to help you heal, grow and thrive. Together, we will empower your potential, not your problems."

If you are health conscious and committed to living a healthy life, even if you presently happen to be struggling with pain, injury or some other health challenge, give Dr. Cochran a call because he is excited to assist you with your healthy life.

Dr. Cochran graduated from the University of Idaho in 1980 and is a retired US Marine Corps officer. After he got out of the service, he went on to Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2001. He is also an award winning author of Oby's Wisdom! A Caveman's Simple Guide to Holistic Health and Wellness, named "Finalist" in the 2013 Best Indie Book Awards.

Please join the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce in welcoming Dr. Mark William Cochran, Holistic Chiropractor and wishing him continued success in our community. For more information, give Dr. Mark William Cochran at 208-304-2330, email him at DrMark@DrMarks-Holistic-Health.com or visit his website http://www.yourchiropractorinsandpoint.com/.

Photo left to right: Kim Queen, Dr. Gabrielle Duebendorfer, Dr. Mark William Cochran, Fred Ebner, Krystle Shapiro, Larry Davidson, Susan Arina Miller, Gerald Porter and Carol Warren. Not pictured: Clif Warren.

Chamber Honors Les Schwab Tire Center

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Les Schwab Tire Center as March’s Business of the Month. With more than 25 years as a Chamber Member and great community member, the Chamber give them this award as a way to say “thank you for always supporting our community and thank you for exemplary customer service.”

“We’re aware of businesses around our community who are leaders and contribute some of their time and as much as they can back to the community,” explained Clem Hackworthy, Chamber Ambassador. “This month we have chosen one of the largest independent car dealers in the world. I can attest for the job they do and the service they give.”

Some of the places they show their support include the Senior Gift Card Center, 4H Fundraisers and Animal Auction, School fundraisers and graduation, little league and other team sponsorships, Backcountry Horseman, car shows, Bonner County Fairgrounds, Rotary and other local clubs.

Please join the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce in congratulating Les Schwab Tire Center for their success and thanking them for their commitment to our community. For more information, call them at 208-265-4518 or stop by and see them at 279 Bonner Mall Way, across from Yoke’s.

In photo left to right, Clem Hackworthy and Nick Badoux.

Chamber Welcomes Northwest Auto Body in Ponderay

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome Northwest Auto Body in Ponderay, their second location, to the Chamber. With more than 35 years’ experience in Sandpoint, Northwest Auto Body has branched out with a new second location in Ponderay and some new amenities to go along with it.

“We are very excited to announce the opening of a second location in Ponderay, located at 1202 Triangle Drive,” said Eric Donenfeld. “Both locations have computer networking systems for online claim filing, providing faster and more efficient insurance claim settling. Our new Ponderay Branch offers 2 new paint booths from Italy and all the newest technology making the repair process even more seamless.”

In 1976, at the age of 26, Mel Donenfeld opened Northwest Autobody in Sandpoint on a premise of providing top quality work and customer service on all vehicles, as well as 24-hour towing in North Idaho. During those 36 years, Northwest Auto Body has created deep ties to the region through volunteering and superior customer service. The business is still family owned and operated with Mel's two sons, Eric and Cory, positioned to continue the tradition of excellence in collision repair and caring for the greater Sandpoint and Ponderay community.

Please join the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce in welcoming Northwest Auto Body to their second location in Ponderay, 1202 Triangle Drive, and wishing them continued success in our community. For more information, give them a call in Ponderay at 265-9999 or visit them online at www.northwestautobody.com. 

New Director Hired for DayBreak Center in Sandpoint

Care taking adults with memory impairments is an arduous task; a labor of love that takes a very special kind of person.  Its demands are endless, so re-fueling and re-energizing are priority.  In a nutshell, that’s what the DayBreak Center in Sandpoint does; it gives Caregivers time for a mental reprieve.

The DayBreak Center, an adult daycare program operated by Sandpoint Area Seniors, Inc. is excited to announce a new member to their team.  Liz DeWolfe, CNA, a seasoned professional in the adult daycare business has accepted the position as the Director of Daybreak Services.

Ms. DeWolfe is no stranger to adult daycare.  She comes to the DayBreak Center with 18 years of adult daycare management experience, especially with seniors with memory impairments like Alzheimer’s and Dementia.  She designed and implemented an advocacy and daycare program for the Skagit, WA Adult Daycare Center and oversaw the creation of a second site in 2009.  “Ms. DeWolfe’s experience is a blessing for our Daybreak Center,” said KC Rokstad, DayBreak Committee Chair.  “She has the experience and expertise to promote and manage this essential service for our community.  We are excited to see how the program will evolve under her direction.”

When asked what her future plans for the program hold, Ms. DeWolfe commented, “Building the program so that we can offer more days and expanded hours will be my first priority.  It’s a matter of finding the right volunteers and staff to continue to create an environment that supports our high standards of care as well as the warmth and understanding of the special needs of this population.  I look forward to networking with area agencies and businesses to build a program that is vital and flourishing and ready to meet the needs of the families of our community.”

For more information about DayBreak Services or volunteering please call Liz at 208-265-8127.  

Pictured from Left to Right: Julie Rowland, DayBreak Activities Assistant, program participant George, New DayBreak Director, Liz De Wolfe, program participant, Lela and volunteer Carol Keller.  

Lovin’ Sandpoint is 40th Annual Sandpoint Winter Carnival

The Sandpoint Business Improvement District is honored to announce the 40^th Annual Winter Carnival, and the return of the Parade of Lights at 5:30pm, Friday, February 21 in downtown Sandpoint.  The Winter Carnival celebration starts Friday, February 14 and runs through February 23, offering a jam-packed week of family fun and activities throughout Sandpoint and up on Schweitzer. Theme for this year’s Winter Carnival and Parade is Lovin’ Sandpoint. 

The downtown Parade of Lights, sponsored by the Business Improvement District member businesses, has returned after a 5-year hiatus. The parade offers businesses, organizations and individuals a chance to show off their local pride, creativity and the whimsy. They are seeking themed floats, groups, marching brigades, snowplows and tractors – if you can move it and decorate it, you should register it and show it!  There are four categories which will be awarded honors at the end of the parade: Best Business, Best Civic Organization, Best Youth Organization, and Grand Champion.

Deadline to enter your float is Friday, February 14^th. Cost to enter your float is $25 or free if you are a B.I.D. Member in good standing or a 501c3 non-profit.

Come downtown and line First Avenue and Cedar St, up to 4^th Ave, to watch the parade and all the wonderful floats. The Parade concludes at 3^rd and Oak, where winners will be announced and then the jaw-dropping Cirque de Sandpoint, sponsored by Pend d’Oreille Winery, begins.  Starting at 7:00pm, the Cirque de Sandpoint presentation includes fire dancing and a silk aerial performance, as well as a local dance troupe that will thrill onlookers of all ages.

For a full calendar of Winter Carnival events, and to download a Parade registration form, please visit sandpointwintercarnival.com, or call Kim with the Sandpoint B.I.D. at 263-2161 for more information.

Chamber Honors Sweet Lou’s

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Sweet Lou’s as December’s Business of the Month. After opening their first location in Hope in April 2011, they have loved being a part of our community and give back in numerous ways. In February of 2012, Sweet Lou’s in Ponderay is now their year round location with the same great menu and standards as their Hope location but with a family sports-bar angle.

“At Sweet Lou’s, I make great food and excellent customer service our top priorities,” explained owner Chad Foust. He added, “During training, I stress to my employees the importance of a satisfied customer, not only with their meal, but their entire experience while in the restaurant.”

They realize the importance of giving back to the community that has given them the opportunity to live out their dream as business owners. While they wish they could give to all organizations, they are strategic in their philanthropic efforts. We focus our giving efforts on local children, public education, cancer services, youth sports and the Panhandle Animal Shelter. A few of the organizations they support to include the Long Bridge Swim, 24 Hours for Hank, local sport teams, Hope Memorial Center, Relay For Life, Bulldog Bench, Susan G. Komen Foundation, EXCEL Foundation, The Festival of Trees, SHS Grad Night and Kinderhaven.

“We are reminded daily with how blessed we are to live and work in beautiful Sandpoint, ID,” added Chad. “Our town has provided us with great business opportunities, but more important, it has provided us with a home and a lifestyle that can be based around family and we are eternally grateful.”

Please join the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce in congratulating Sweet Lou’s for their success and thanking them for their commitment to our community. For more information, visit their Ponderay location at 477272 US Hwy 95 or their Hope location at 46624 Hwy 200, call them at 265-5999 and 263-1381 respectively, visit www.sweetlousidaho.com. Like them on Facebook, facebook.com/sweetlous.

In photo: left to right, Carol Warren and Chad Foust.

Chamber Honors Allen McClelland

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce honored Allen McClelland as December’s Volunteer of the Month. Allen’s contributions to the community are very influential for many organizations. He lends in a hand in a variety of ways and undertakes a leadership position when he can.

 Allen’s impact in our community is extremely large. Currently, Allen is the Race Director for the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce’s Scenic Half Marathon, which he has held since 2010. Also, he is the Assistant Scoutmaster for Boy Scouts of America Troop 117 and he has been involved with them since 1991. He’s a Board Member of the Bonner Community Foodbank and volunteers his time with Jacey’s Race and the Long Bridge Swim. He has also been a Ponderay since 2005 and was president in 2010 and 2011.

“I love, Love, Love Sandpoint!” exclaimed Allen. He added, “ [I] count my blessings every day to live in this wonderful place with wonderful people.”

When he’s not involved with community service, he can be found supporting his kid’s activities (cross country, dance, soccer, basketball, volleyball, piano, choir, etc.) or enjoying the local mountains. In the past, he was a Sandpoint Leadership Grad in 2006, Chamber Ambassador 2005-2007, former Board Member for the Ponderay Bay Trail in 2010-2011 and Board Member for the Bonner County Economic Development Corporation in 2010-2011.

Please join the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce in congratulating Matt Mire for being honored as the Volunteer of the Month and thanking him for all of his contributions to our community. From the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce, as well as the whole community, Thank You! 

Photo: left to right, Kate McAlister and Allen McClelland.

Chamber Welcomes Lover’s Getaway/Spiritual Retreat

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome the Lover’s Getaway/Spiritual Retreat, a private residence which serves as a vacation rental. This retreat is about experiencing a love affair, whether with source, significant other or self. This intimate space allows one to rest, renew and reflect in the expanse of nature. If you are looking for a romantic getaway, privacy, and an inspirational and renewing retreat look no further. This cliff side home is built on mountainside rock overlooking Lake Pend Oreille where you view nothing but water, mountains and the animals that make it their home.

“Size matters when it comes to view and this view is unsurpassed,” explained Ginny Hendren, manager for the Lover's Getaway.

At Lover’s Getaway, nature envelops you. You can watch eagles and osprey compete for food as you lounge in the hot tub or deck. Hear the cry of a loon. Watch sunsets from the comfort of the outdoor fire pit on an infinity deck that gives you a bird’s eye view of this nature retreat. Winter affords a snow globe experience as the floor to ceiling windows puts nature at your feet.

"This is the time of year the locals discover us.  Since we're so easily accessible and so private we're seeing more stay-cations when weather makes for challenging travel.  This getaway provides that needed perspective and intimacy a special occasion calls for without the long distance travel.  IT's the best of all worlds" Says Ginny

You will wake up and go to sleep to the most inspirational setting you could wish for. Of course, nearby there are a host of activities and attractions however many guests never leave the premises. After all, you want to  rest after doing nothing all day.  As it’s a private residence the
kitchen is fully stocked with every amenity needed for your comfort and convenience. Spa robes and linens all provided. Just remember your toothbrush.  

“This home was built with love, crafted by an artist/designer and inspired by spirit,” Ginny added. “This isn't a home, this is an experience.”

For more information, visit them online at www.loversgetaway.vacayhome.com or contact Ginny at ginny@netw.com  for reservations.

Please help the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce welcome The Lover’s
Getaway/Spiritual Retreat to the Chamber and wish them great success.   

Photo: Kate McAlister, Tim and Fran Potter, Ginny Hendren, Ashley Kearns and Kim Queen. 

Chamber Honors Matt Mire as Volunteer of the Month

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce honored Matt Mire as November's Volunteer of the Month. Matt's contributions to the community are very influential for many organizations. He lends in a hand in a variety of ways and undertakes a leadership position when he can.

Giving back to the community is clearly a large value of Matt's. He volunteers his time to teach Junior Achievement in the schools, assists the Upward Basketball program and coaches youth t-ball and basketball. He organizes and participates in community projects through Mountain West Bank such as their recent annual Day of Caring. This year, they painted a house and completed various projects for Head Start. As of the moment, he is currently the Bulldog Bench's Treasurer and the Hospital Foundation Board of Director's Treasurer. 

“Sandpoint is where I was raised and where I call home, I suppose those are the primary reasons why I enjoy volunteering and giving back as I’m forever grateful to the many teachers, coaches, and community members who played important roles during my youth," explained Matt. He continued with, "now that I have young kids I feel even more vested in our community.”

Please join the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce in congratulating Matt Mire for being honored as the Volunteer of the Month and thanking him for all of his contributions to our community. From the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce, as well as the whole community, Thank You! 

Photo: left to right, Matt Mire and Barbara Schriber.

Chamber Honors Bonner Community Food Bank

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Bonner Community Food Bank as November’s Business of the Month. The Food Bank is a non-profit service organization dedicated to providing nutritious food sources. The ministerial association, along with concerned citizens, organized the Bonner Community Food Bank in 1980. There were many locations the Food Bank called home until 2011 their present location at 1707 Culvers Drive was purchased.

The community of Bonner County is blessed with a Food Bank that is the only one of its kind in Idaho. When the new building location was purchased, it was with a new format in mind for the delivery of its food services called a market. The ‘Market’ format was established in November 2011, and has proven to be a brilliant way of food delivery for food bank recipients. Each individual that is head of a household is given 70 points to spend as cash in the food bank. Each other individual in that same family gets another 10 additional points. These points are used the same as money in a regular store. All of their clients have expressed how much they like this system, reserving their independence and integrity. 

Sometimes the choice is between buying food and paying the rent, buying medication, or other vital expenses. The Bonner Community Food Bank seeks to alleviate the stress of hunger and not knowing where the next meal is coming from, better equipping their clients to be able to deal with all of life’s challenges.

“Now, the Food Bank Board, staff and volunteers want to extend our heart-felt thanks to those who have made our success possible through contributions of time, goods or money,” said Alice Wallace, Director of the Food Bank. “Without your generosity we would not be able to help those who are truly in need in our community. The Food Bank relies on your support. Our funding comes from individuals, businesses, local organizations and grants. The current economic climate has created an urgent situation of reduced funding, a sharp drop in donations and a significant rise in the number of families who are turning to us for assistance. Without your generous support, we could not reliably provide food for our neighbors in Bonner County.”

Please join the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce in congratulating Bonner Community Food Bank for their success and thanking them for their commitment to our community. For more information or if you are able to make a financial donation today, visit them at 1707 Culver Dr in Sandpoint or call to be a volunteer at 263-3663.

In photo: left to right, Carol Warren and Alice Wallace.

Schweitzer’s Birthday Weekend, December 13-15

Community Day, Founders Day, Sunday Solution

Sandpoint, ID – Schweitzer Mountain Resort turns 50 years old this December and would like everyone to join in for their birthday weekend, December 13 – 15. Guests can ski all three days for less than the price of a typical adult lift ticket.

The weekend starts December 13 with Community Day, a fundraiser for Bonner Partners in Care and Community Cancer Services of Sandpoint. That Friday all lift tickets will be just $10 – with all proceeds benefitting those two organizations. Guests can select which organization they’d like to donate to by purchasing online at Schweitzer.com. Tickets will also be for sale at the resort ticket windows on Friday morning.

The big birthday party, Founders Day, is Saturday, December 14. Schweitzer will be celebrating with $19.63 lift tickets in honor of their 1963 opening season. That afternoon; complimentary birthday cake will be served as supplies last, a re-dedication ceremony will take place to honor key figures in Schweitzer’s history, followed by live music in Taps Lounge and the opening of Schweitzer’s 25 year old time capsule.

On Sunday, party goers can sleep in and take advantage of Schweitzer’s Sunday Solution. Sunday afternoon tickets will be just $25 when purchased online.

“Schweitzer Mountain Resort want’s to celebrate our 50^th anniversary with the people who matter most, our loyal guests” said Tom Chasse, Schweitzer’s President and CEO. “This weekend is about helping the community, celebrating 50 years of service, and exceptional skiing”.

Chamber Brings on Kim Queen to Lead Sandpoint B.I.D.

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed Kim Queen who joined the Chamber as the new Business Improvement District (B.I.D.) Manager. Kim started in the position on October 16^th after leaving Sandpoint’s oldest non-profit, the Pend Oreille Arts Council (POAC), as their Executive Director of seven years. Her non-profit expertise more than fifteen years deep and brings extensive management experience, as well as an insider’s look, to the B.I.D. Manager position.

“As a B.I.D. member with POAC, paying the assessment tax, I was never sure what the benefit was,” explained Kim. “Granted, I didn’t educate myself or take an active role in the process. I simply paid the bill and went on with business.”

Kim was born in Portland, OR and attended high school and college in Vancouver, WA. After college and before she moved to our community, she held the position of Fund Development Manager at the First Place School in Seattle for six and half years and worked at the Northwest AIDS Foundation for one and half years. She relocated to our area to become the Executive Director of POAC and has since fallen in love and made this her home.

“I want to work with B.I.D. folks and figure out what improvements can be made and how the new Sandpoint B.I.D. organization can benefit you and the community. It is my goal to get to know the concerns of all our B.I.D. members and I will have an open door policy.”

Since taking the B.I.D. Manager position, Kim and the Chamber Staff undertook a strategic planning process to help guide the newly formed Sandpoint B.I.D. organization under the Chamber’s umbrella. The first weeks on the job have included meetings with various groups including the City of Sandpoint, Tourism Sandpoint, SURA and Sandpoint Shopping District, as well as planning the Holiday’s celebration themed this year Home for the Holidays.

“If you see me out and about, please introduce yourself and I look forward to meeting you!”

For more information about the Sandpoint B.I.D., call 208-263-2161 or email Kim Queen at kim@sandpointchamber.com. 

Chamber Welcomes Sandpoint Optometry

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated Sandpoint Optometry’s Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Dr. Whitney Henker is excited to provide and keep up with Sandpoint Optometry’s tradition of friendly, excellent service and thorough eye care. After taking over the business from the respected optometric physician, Dr. Thomas Wiley who retired in 2012, she assures the community and patients they will experience the same attention to detail and thorough care they have come to expect from the office since 1991.

Dr. Henker is a graduate of Pacific University College of Optometry in Forest Grove, Oregon. She has been practicing optometry for over 18 years in Washington and British Columbia. Dr. Henker started practicing at Sandpoint Optometry in June of 2012. She joined the Chamber recently and is a member of the Chamber’s Women In Business, as well as a member of Ponderay Rotary Club.

Dr. Henker enjoys the medical aspect of the practice and can diagnose and manage ocular diseases. She has many years of experience treating dry eye conditions and is committed to getting each patient comfortable with various treatment options. She also has years of experience in co-managing cataract surgery as well as laser refractive surgery. One of the areas that she will be expanding the practice is for contact lens fittings. There are so many new options for contact lens patients to experience better comfort, including contact lenses that allow patients to read with their lenses as well as see clearly and comfortable in the distance. Dr. Henker also has many years of experience with new optical lens technology and she is excited to help her patients select a lens that will allows each patient to experience better vision.

With the enthusiastic aid of Nancy Clatworthy, Office Manager, Erin Wiley, Optometric Assistance, there are many exciting modern, stylish frames to choose from. Sandpoint Optometry is committed to providing eye care for every patient and Dr. Henker has expanded the number of insurance plans that are accepted to meet those needs.

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce wishes Dr. Whitney Henker and Sandpoint Optometry great success in our community. They are located across from Sandpoint Middle School, at 1333 Superior St, Suite A, and their hours are Monday-Thursday from 9am-5pm, and Friday 9am-noon. For more information, visit www. sandpointoptometry.com, call them at 208-265-4140 or email them at drhenker@sandpointoptometry.com.  Like them on Facebook.

  

In Photo: Paralee Gates, Colleen Spickelmire, Clif Warren, Erin Wiley, Nancy Clatworthy, Dr. Whitney Henker, Peggy Shadel and Carol Warren. 

Chamber Honors Clif Warren as Volunteer of the Month

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce honored Clif Warren as October Volunteer of the Month. After moving here in 2003 to retire with his wife Carol, Clif is finally getting around to retired life after taking on a new life of service for many of our community organizations and non-profits. Clif’s expertise and willingness to jump right in has allowed many organizations, including the Chamber, to have prosperous growth now and in the future.

Clif got involved in the Rotary Club of Sandpoint right away after moving here. He sat on the Board for the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce for many years and held the Chairman role for two years. Clif played a vital role in bringing the Selkirk – Pend Oreille Transit (SPOT) Bus to life. He is an excellent volunteer and committee member for the WaCanId Bike Ride around the International Selkirk Loop, Chafe 150 and Scenic Half.

“He is the father of the SPOT Bus,” explained Chamber President Kate McAlister. “Clif is at everything and does so much to help out the community; shoveling snow at Sandpoint Ski Joring, selling tickets at the Summer Sampler, course attendance at the Scenic Half.”

Please join the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce in congratulating Clif Warren for being honored as the Volunteer of the Month and thanking him for all of his contributions to our community. From the Greater Sandpoint Chamber, as well as the whole community, Thank You! 

Chamber Welcomes Evergreen Home Loans

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome Evergreen Home Loans to our community. Founded in 1987, Evergreen Home Loans is proud to have more than 26 years serving customers in the business. Cathy Pizzini (MLO #205704) and Kimberly Terry (MLO #205713), jointly known as Team Evergreen, have been with Evergreen Home Loans for 11 and 25 years respectively. Cathy and her husband moved to Sandpoint about 2 ½ years ago to escape city life and open up a new branch office for Evergreen.

“We learned a long time ago if you take care of your customers, communicate throughout the process, and deliver on all your promises, your business will take care of itself,” explained Cathy Pizzini. “This certainly has been true for our team. Our core team has been together for 11 years and we recently added a 5^th member, Carol Sommerfeld when we opened our office in Sandpoint.” 

Evergreen Home Loans is a local, direct lender and provides a complete solution for home financing. They are A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau and are agency approved with Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Ginnie Mae. Evergreen offers a full range of affordable home loan products for purchase or refinancing: FHA and VA, USDA, Conventional, Jumbo, Cash-out refinance, or First-time homebuyer programs. Whether you’re in the buying or refinancing stages of the mortgage process or you’re a real estate professional or builder, they want to be a resource for you.

“We originate, fund, and service home loans,” said Cathy. “Our service mantra is all about delivering On Time and As Promised®.”

For more than two decades, they’ve helped buyers meet their home financing goals and sometimes they do what other lenders can’t. Evergreen has an entire team pulling for the customer. From the beginning of the process to loan funding and closing, the company offers a smooth process for customers.  If problems arise, in most cases, they have the resources to quickly resolve or restructure the customer’s loan if necessary and still close on time.

Evergreen Home Loans is in your neighborhood and ready to get you home before the holidays with their Ready.Set.Home.™ program. This program offers consumers a suite of benefits that help prepare them for purchase while helping them negotiate their purchase offer. Qualified buyers receive a smartphone loan calculator application to determine their home buying affordability, a Security Plus Seller Guarantee™* which provides a fully-approved loan amount with a written guarantee, and a low down loan program to make home buying more affordable (a range of low down programs are available).

*Evergreen guarantees the loan approval or the seller receives $1,000. Applies to purchase loans only. To qualify, buyer’s Security Plus Approval/Seller Guarantee Addendum must have been issued by Evergreen and the Seller shall have executed the addendum with their signature at the time they execute the Purchase And Sale Agreement on subject property. Certain loan types do not qualify for this offer. Restrictions apply. Visit evergreenhomeloans.com for details.

Please help the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce welcome Evergreen Home Loans to the Chamber and wish them success. For more information, visit them at their office located in Sandpoint at 105 Pine Street, Suite #109 (branch NMLS #1049576), send them an email at Teamevergreen@evergreenhomeloans.com, call them at 263-5300, or check out their company website at www.evergreenhomeloans.com.  

Photo: Carol Warren, Paralee Gates, Kimberly Terry, Christine Tolmich, Cathy Pizzini, Don Burton (owner of Evergreen), Angie Elliott, Carol Sommerfeld, David Floan and Clif Warren. 

Chamber Honors Ponderay Garden Center

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce recognizes Ponderay Garden Center at September’s Business of the Month. They pride themselves as being an example of what can happen when agricultural space meets city expansion and when vision is combined with a sense of community. Their community centric focus allows them to prosper and help others do the same.

Watch Ponderay Garden Center accept their award here >>

Last summer they held another successful Concert for a Cause series, in conjunction with Horizon Credit Union, and was able to give out checks totaling $10,000 this year to non-profits including Friends of Ponderay Bay Trail, Panida Theater, Kinderhaven, Forest Bird Charter School and more. These free concerts are open to everyone and raise money by donations. Other annual events the Ponderay Garden Center hold are the Garden of Artistry and Easter Egg Hunt.

When general manager Kevin Mansoor was asked why and how is their staff is so good, he answered, “I give my staff free reign to go above and beyond.”

Their venue is 9.5 acres and open to events of all kinds. They’re open through the month of October from 8am-4pm before closing down and preparing for next year.

Information: Please join the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce in congratulating Ponderay Garden Center in being honored as September’s Business of the Month. For more information or to reach out to them, call 208-255-4200 or visit www.ponderaygarden.com.

  

In Photo: left to right Clem Hackworthy, Angeline Ramsay, Kevin Mansoor and Ken Wood.