Chamber celebrates Leadership Sandpoint graduation

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce invites area residents and businesses to its July general membership luncheon to celebrate the 2010-2012 Leadership Sandpoint graduating class.

The luncheon will be held from noon-1 p.m. Thursday, July 12.

It’s a chance to meet some amazing individuals and learn about what they have done during their tenure in the program and what they have in store for the future, Kate McAlister, chamber president, said.

Leadership Sandpoint has gone through a serious evolution over the last two years. After the economic downturn the program from happening in 2009, the 2010-2012 class was out to prove a point. They raised more than $10,000 and gave a $5,000 check to the Circles Initiative, McAlister said.

“Beyond raising money, the class gave a lot of sweat and labor in helping the Blue Haven House with a damaged roof, a new paint coat and secured a grant from Home Depot which got them a set of much needed new cabinets,” she added.

As the Leadership Sandpoint program continues to evolve under the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce, the need for continuity has arisen. The community is full of leaders and many Leadership Sandpoint alumni — most of whom we have no records of and are in need or reconnecting with.

“It is our hope throughout the next year we have a full and accurate list of all of the alumni and the birth of a Leadership Sandpoint Alumni Association becomes more than just an idea,” McAlister said. “Come hear what Leadership Sandpoint has in store.”

RSVP is required and space is limited; we do fill up and have to turn away walk-ins occasionally. Please register online at www.sandpointchamber.com or call 263-2161 to reserve your spot.

The luncheon will be held from noon-1 p.m. Thursday in the community room of the Panhandle State Bank Building, 414 Church St., Sandpoint.

The cost is $15 for members and $20 for non-members.