If there's a community event in Rathdrum, Tamie Phelps would like to be a part of it.

Or at least consider it with what she already has going on.

Phelps has been actively involved in Rathdrum most of her life and her current undertakings include being the chairperson for the Relay for Life American Cancer Society fundraiser that started last year, treasurer of the chamber of commerce and Rathdrum Days.

Wherever Phelps has worked - Dashco convenience plaza, recently Panhandle State Bank and now Edward Jones - a sense of community came with the job.

"At Dashco, we were involved in the Rathdrum Days Parade and had 'king kone' events," she said. "Later on, my job at Panhandle State Bank gave me the opportunity to be involved in a lot of community events, including Rathdrum Days, December d'Lites, the Big Back-In and business fair. The list goes on. I love it.

"Panhandle State Bank and Edward Jones are very alike in the cultures they have."

Summer is the busy season for Phelps as Rathdrum Days is July 20-22 and the Relay is Aug. 10-11 at Lakeland High.

Phelps, who was a personal banker at PSB in Rathdrum and is now branch office administrator at the Edward Jones investment office in town, grew up in Hauser and went to school in Rathdrum.

She earned Volunteer of the Year for the Rathdrum Area Chamber of Commerce in 2011, the second time she received the honor.

Why are you so involved in the Rathdrum community?

The people. This is a small community and, when you do something important, it makes a difference.

What's being chair of the new Rathdrum Relay for Life like and what all do you do?

When I was asked to chair the Rathdrum Relay, I felt so honored. I knew it would be a huge commitment and a lot of work. But you know what? When you enjoy and feel so strong about something it isn't so bad. I have a great committee and support from the American Cancer Society. My "partner" Kelli Hornbaker is the best. She is a real inspiration. We meet once a month for now - and more later - at the Rathdrum Library and all the committee chairs give their updates. Anything they need help with, I try to figure out how and what. It is really a team effort. I give out a lot of information and go out to spread the word to get support from the businesses and community.

How is the Rathdrum Relay doing? What changes, if any, will there be this year? Any goals?

I never dreamed the Relay would take off so big for the first year. We way exceeded our goal and grossed more than $20,000. At this time, this year we have 20 teams and raised almost $7,500. Our 2012 goals are 25 teams and $25,000. I think the biggest improvement we need to see is more entertainment, especially at night to keep everyone going. I do know there will be more food available by the teams as fundraisers. Everyone will just have to come by and see.

What have been the biggest challenges for getting a Relay established in Rathdrum or was it even a challenge?

Not really. I would like to see more businesses be sponsors and on my shirts. It's great advertising, but I do understand times are hard. But it's not too late if anyone still wants to.

Who do you know personally who has been affected by cancer and what has that situation been like?

This is hard for me. Cancer touches everyone. My Grandma, mom, sister, myself, my best friend and my friends' children. It goes on and on. How sad is that? When you come to a Relay, you understand and see why this is such an important event. There is so much information and support available.

How are you involved with Rathdrum Days?

I used to be on that committee too, but now am supporting it through the chamber board. I am also in the parade and have a booth for the Relay for Life.

Why has helping organize Rathdrum Days and the Relay been so rewarding? Probably in different ways?

Rathdrum Days has been going on for so many years. To see it grow so big has been rewarding. It is such a great event. I have pictures of my kids 30 years ago in the parade and now my grandkids, too. It's great small-town family fun. Memories for the whole family. The Relay ... to see how this community has embraced it and welcomed it is truly amazing. I know it is going to continue to grow and improve every year. Knowing that I had a part in that with everyone else is a huge reward.

What other activities is the chamber of commerce working on this year besides Rathdrum Days?

The chamber has a lot going on. In addition to Rathdrum Days, the business fair is Aug. 16 and the Adventure Race Sept. 8. And we are planning for the annual dinner Sept. 22 at Golden Spike Estates. The Economics Committee is working hard to promote "Buy Local" and to get new business in town. We have a lot of new board members with great ideas.

What's it been like to grow up in Hauser, go to school at Lakeland and still be in the community as an active volunteer? (It seems like people are on the move so much today that they're not in one community for very long.)

I have been lucky to live at Hauser when I was young and Twin Lakes for the past 30 years. Lakeland School District is the best and to now have a third generation going is so special. I worked at Dashco for almost 17 years, Panhandle State Bank just under 10 years, so I have always been out in the public working with people. We live on property that my husband has lived on his whole life. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else except North Idaho.

How has Hauser changed?

Growing up at Hauser was great We could be out late and walk around the lake. You can't let your kids have as much freedom now as we had back then and feel safe. My first job ever was at the Rainbow Inn with Olita Johnston teaching me to cook and be a waitress. She is still at Hauser, very active and the mayor. My husband and I go for drives and will go drive around the lake every once in a while. It's changed and not changed in many ways.

What are some things that most people don't know about you that you're willing to share?

Well ... probably not so much. I have been around too long. But my oldest daughter was adopted when she was born and I got to meet her and her family when she graduated from high school. She is a beautiful person. I am so glad I get to know her now.

What are some beliefs and values that define who you are as a person and how did those come about?

Be polite, use manners and be a caring, honest person. I have always been complimented on my children and how polite and good they are. That makes me so proud and make me think I have showed them how to be "good" people. So I guess my parents and family played a big part in that too, huh?

Why and how is Rathdrum unique as a community? Is that why you're involved there?

No. 1 is Lakeland School District and now KTEC (Kootenai Technical Education Campus), too. But the people here are the best. People I feel I can honestly call "my friends" and they do the same. That is why I am so involved.

SNAPSHOT

Tamie Phelps

Date of birth: June 11, 1959

College: Miscellaneous classes (computer, bookkeeping, etc.)

Family: Husband Charlie, 46, married 15 years in July; daughters Mindi, 37, Crystal 34; sons Ricky, 30, Hunter, 15; 11 grandchildren

Number of hours on average you work in a week: 40 with Edward Jones, 10 volunteer

Number of hours on average you sleep in a night: 6-7

Hobbies: Crafts with my girlfriend Sue, reading, yard work

Favorite author: Debbie Macomber. I love reading about places I know and have been to in the Northwest. She is "local" and I am all for keeping it here as in chamber of commerce's "Buy Local" campaign.

Favorite book: The Little House On The Prairie series. I still have my set.

Favorite spectator sport: Football. Go Bears! My husband is for the Dolphins, my son Ricky a Chiefs fan so we have a lot of fun.

Favorite type of music: All kinds from Patsy Cline, Seether, Adel, Kenny Chesney ...

Quality you admire most in a person: Sincerity, honesty

Best advice you ever received: "Build A Bridge" (Get over it). Sounds hard, I know, but life is too short and it takes a lot less energy to move on than not, too. Learn, grow ...

Any one thing you consider your greatest accomplishment: Starting the first Relay for Life in Rathdrum and the great success and support we have had.

Historical figure you most admire: Betty White. You always need to keep a sense of humor.

Any one person who most influenced your life and why: My dad. He was a hard worker, honest and could remember any story or joke. He taught us to love and respect nature. A strong, but very gentle man. He has been gone for two years this July and I miss him so much. And he loved a good, martini too.