High costs forcing bazaar's suspension

Sandpoint Kiwanis Club regretfully announces the suspension of the All Bonner County Bazaar, usually held the first week of October at the Sandpoint Community Hall. A 48-year tradition begun by the Sandpoint Civic Club and recently hosted by Kiwanis, the Bazaar featured local craftsmen and was a kickoff to the holiday shopping season.

Due to the high rental cost for Community Hall ($500 per day for the hall, $100 per day for use of the kitchen) and the city’s denial of the charitable organization discount for Kiwanis — our non-profit status is 501(c)(4), rather than the prescribed 501(c)(3)), it is financially unfeasible for us to host the event this year.

Founded in 1926, Sandpoint Kiwanis is the oldest service club in Bonner County. Our sole purpose is to serve the children of the world, beginning in our own community. To that end, we maintain 160-acre Camp Stidwell on Mirror Lake, have sponsored Boy Scout Troop 111 for 78 years, award college scholarships to deserving students, and support numerous area children/youth programs. Additionally, a portion of each member’s annual dues goes toward international children’s causes.

Sandpoint Kiwanis realizes the decision to discontinue the annual bazaar will be a disappointment to vendors and shoppers alike, and for this we offer our sincere apology.

BOB CAMP

Sandpoint

Sandpoint Kiwanis Club