Networking, connections and fun
Ryan Frailing, a Post Falls High School student visited the Kootenai Health Strokes for Strokes booth at the Post Falls Chamber of Commerce Community Business Fair, Tuesday at Real Life Ministries. Stroke coordinator Kate Knight looks on while Megan Strowd a neurohospitalist with the stroke program chats with other visitors.
ELLI GOLDMAN HILBERT/Press
The Smash My Trash truck drew attention as guests entered Real Life Ministries in Post Falls to attend the Chamber Community Business Fair.
From left: Jess Mannon, owner of Graze & Rose charcuterie-style catering chats with Pam Houser of Heritage Health at the Post Falls Chamber of Commerce Community Business Fair Tuesday, at Real Life Ministries.
A view from up above the Post Falls Chamber Community Business Fair held Tuesday at Real Life Ministries. About 66 companies were represented and organizers expected about 400 guests to visit the event.
The gals from North Star retirement and assisted living community kicked up their heels at the Post Falls Chamber of Commerce Community Business Fair Tuesday at Real Life Ministries. From left: Megan Ballard, family advisor, Rachel Jensen, executive director and Kayla Bouder, family advisor.
POST FALLS — Some came to network, some to share new business ventures and others, like 14-year-old Ryan Frailing, came because their moms brought them along.
About 400 guests were expected Tuesday afternoon at the Post Falls Chamber of Commerce Community Business Fair, held at Real Life Ministries. About 65 businesses were represented.
Frailing took a moment at the Strokes for Strokes miniature golf booth presented by Kootenai Health. Stroke coordinator Kate Knight offered tips for recognizing the symptoms of a stroke. After answering a trivia question, Knight put a sling on Frailing’s arm so he could experience golfing the way that a stroke victim might. Even with a handicap, Frailing hit a hole in one.
Smash My Trash, a commercial trash compacting company is new to the area. Open since January they serve Spokane, Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls.
“We’re just networking,” Owner Jamie Major said. “The Chamber in Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls are both productive and active members of the community and we want to support them and connect with the business community.”
Akin to a mobile trash compactor, the bright red Smash My Trash truck travels to commercial locations, reducing waste volume by up to 70%.
Representatives from North Star retirement and assisted living community set up a western-themed booth. Executive Director Rachel Jensen said they came “to make new connections.”
Jensen started working for North Star in 2017 as a med tech and worked through several promotions to reach her current position. North Star is looking for kitchen servers and has full and part-time positions to offer.
In addition to holding drawings, many companies were offering giveaways, free swag, games and food.
Jess Mannon, owner of Graze & Rose, offered gorgeous charcuterie-style platters to visitors of her booth. Mannon’s custom catering business isn’t full-time for her yet, but she hopes it will grow to that point.
“I see myself actually having a storefront at some time. With lots of wine,” Mannon said.
Daryl Delaney with USA Insulation attended the business fair in hopes of connecting with some new employees. A Post Falls resident, Delaney said what he’s really looking for is “a good leader.”
In his first year in business, Delaney is preparing to expand with the purchase of another truck. USA Insulation manufactures and installs “injection foam” insulation. Their specialty is providing insulation without disturbing drywall, making their services ideal for older homes, Delaney said.
Chuck Ethridge, the executive artistic director of Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre attended the fair to let the community know that after a two-year hiatus, the Summer Theatre is back. With a “full cast and a full orchestra,” this year’s shows will be held at the Schuler Performing Arts Center on the North Idaho College campus.
“Tickets are selling well,” Ethridge said.
Besides “reaching out to the community,” for sponsorships, Ethridge said events like the business fair are great for connecting with philanthropic organizations. Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre likes to get tickets into the hands of the underserved in our community, sharing the joy of live theater as much as possible, Ethridge said.
More info: postfallschamber.com
