COEUR d’ALENE — When Andrea Fulks talks about growing the Hayden Chamber of Commerce’s membership, her choice of words is intentional.

“I never say you should ‘join,’” the chamber president and CEO said. “I say that you belong in this family.”

In that same spirit, Thursday’s Network and Business Connections membership luncheon felt like a family reunion as nearly 100 business leaders and representatives caught up over lunch and laughter at the Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn.

There was much to celebrate.

This year marks the chamber’s 25th anniversary, which was commemorated in style with plenty of gold, glitter and many attendees dressed to the nines.

The chamber’s purpose has remained steadfast since its founding in 2001.

“The mission of the Hayden Chamber of Commerce is to build and promote commerce through quality relationships for a strong local economy,” Fulks said.

A number of area businesses have been chamber members from the beginning, and membership has grown steadily to over 100 members.

Members can contribute to the business community regardless of how long they’ve been involved, Fulks said.

Several such members of impact were presented with business excellence awards during the luncheon, the recipients of which are selected by Fulks each year.

“I see all that they do every day,” Fulks said. “I want it to come from the heart.”

Volunteer of the Year James Costello is one example of what it means to serve with heart.

Costello is someone who arrives quietly and gives generously — and expects nothing in return, Fulks said before presenting the award.

Costello, true to form, was humbled by the recognition.

“There are many others in this room more deserving than me,” he said. “I hope one day they get their recognition, too.”

The Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn was named Business of the Year for 2025, a local addition to the hotel’s string of accolades.

The Coeur d’Alene Inn recently received the M.K. Guertin Award, the highest honor awarded by the Best Western Brand.

“Today we recognize not just business, but a legacy,” Fulks said.

And this time around, the President/CEO Award had two recipients.

Matt Pelz and Tina Moore from State Farm Agency were both recognized “for leadership that goes beyond their job title.”

“(They) remind us that community isn’t found, it’s built,” Fulks said.

“What can I say — I’m surprised and humbled,” Pelz said with a laugh. “Thank you very much.” 

    Hayden Chamber President and CEO Andrea Fulks addresses attendees at the chamber's Annual Business Excellence Awards lunch on Thursday.
  

    James Costello was named Volunteer of the Year by the Hayden Chamber on Thursday. Pictured with his mom Rita Costello (left), wife Carrie Costello (middle right), and daughter Caitlyn Costello (far right).
  

    Best Western Plus Coeur d'Alene Inn sales director Andrea Hester, left, was presented with the Business of the Year award by Hayden Chamber President and CEO Andrea Fulks, right, on Thursday.