COEUR d’ALENE — 2024 proved to be a big year for the Hayden Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber President and CEO Andrea Fulks announced at Thursday’s annual Business Excellence Awards luncheon that the chamber welcomed 60 new members and 25 new businesses in the last year.

“Who is the Hayden Chamber? You, our members are, of course,” Fulks said.

About 100 members of the local business community attended Thursday’s luncheon at the Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn to network and celebrate the successes of area businesses.

The chamber also recognized several standouts in the business community. 

Matthew Davis was named Volunteer of the Year, and Elise Smith won Business of the Year for her company, Sign Gypsies.

Smith’s smile was infectious as she accepted the award in front of a standing ovation.

“I genuinely didn’t know this was going to happen ... Thank you so much,” Smith said.

Elks Lodge No. 1254 received a special President/CEO award, which Fulks called a “personal acknowledgment of their unwavering dedication and generosity.”

Elks Lodge No. 1254 volunteered its campsite on Prairie Avenue “without hesitation” for December’s European Christmas Market, Fulks explained.

“They made us all feel like family,” Fulks said.

Thursday also marked a changing of the guard for the chamber. Jessica Chavolla, who served as 2024’s chairman of the board of directors, officially passed the gavel to 2025 Chairman Marty Behm.

“She’s a hard act to follow,” Behm said. “I will do my best.”

Behm expressed confidence in the chamber’s continued success as the business community heads into the new year.

“I think we’re headed in an amazing direction,” Behm said. “Keep the course. Stay the course.”

Behm encouraged chamber members to get involved and attend chamber events in 2025.

“It’s a lot of fun being associated with wonderful people, and that’s what this chamber is all about,” Behm said.  

    Marty Behm officially becomes the chairman of the chamber's board of directors after Jessica Chavolla, 2024's chairman, passes him the gavel.
  

    Hayden Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Andrea Fulks with 2024's volunteer of the year Matthew Davis.
  

    Hayden Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Andrea Fulks (right) with Business of the Year winner Elise Smith.
  

    Members of 2024's President/CEO award winner, Elks Lodge #1254 alongside Chamber President and CEO Andrea Fulks.