The third meeting of the rebooted Mineral County Chamber of Commerce garnered the largest audience yet, which is an indication that people realize the benefits of the organization.

About 40 people were inside the 4-H building on the county fairgrounds in Superior, with residents from DeBorgia to Alberton wanting to learn more on how this is a strong arm as a business advocate. 

Interim president Drew Hanson was crystal clear that he cannot remain in the position he holds or any other administrative standing as there is way too much on his plate. He knows the importance of an effective chamber of commerce which is why he has been the "umph" behind rebooting this one. 

The next meeting will be his last holding the gavel as that meeting will be the election of officers who will immediately assume their duty responsibilities. Hanson hopes to have this election meeting in St. Regis and the location will be announced soon but it will be at 5:50 p.m. on Feb. 7. 

The offices that need to be filled are president, vice-president, and secretary. Roni Haskins has faithfully volunteered as the treasurer and kept the organization legally alive during the inactivity years. Several people are considering the positions but at this point, only two have officially registered. Steve Deslile and Anna Marie White who each spoke on their credentials and vision for what they see coming from the chamber.

Those in attendance asked solid questions and offered exciting ideas and opportunities, which is another sign that the county is ready to engage. But nothing could be cemented until the new administration takes their seats. Meeting locations in different areas each month were suggested. 

Tournaments that could be designed to draw locals in as well as tourists and residents outside the county. Citizens at large will be helpful to plow ground in this initial stage by being a member or not. Businesses knowing what others offer so referrals can be made keeping the money local along with exhibiting friendly customer service.

Carissa Kuhl, an elementary school counselor in Superior, shared a project some of her students are initiating that aligns with the mission of the chamber and hoped they would work together. 

Merry Jo Berry representing the county fair board of directors explained some of the chamber’s past projects and was excited to see the energy and turnout. All the speakers asked everyone in the room to shop locally as much as possible, even if the price was a bit higher, to keep businesses going. 

Cottage industries and home-based businesses are new categories that have a strong foothold and the new-and-improved Mineral County Chamber of Commerce already has plans and ideas that were mentioned. 

One person who grew up in the Tarkio area and left to make a living and returned after her retirement is Arlene Jacovelli. She will be involved in marketing and membership along with rules and regulations from her experience in the corporate world.

For anyone who understands that this will be building a conduit for the businesses and nonprofits and can commit to help rebuild the organization in an elected-officer position, the requirement is to be paid in full as a member, which is $25, and file the application that can be obtained at [email protected] no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 15. Everyone is encouraged to attend the meeting but only those that are paid members by the election will be allowed to vote.