Orofino Chamber of Commerce
County Commissioner updates chamber
At the regular meeting October 21, Georgia Martinell, representing Second Chance Animal, Inc. was welcomed as the newest member. Donation jars are available for member businesses to provide support for the spaying and neutering of pets owned by low income families who are not able to afford those services.
Guest speaker
The guest speaker was John Allen, who is a resident of Orofino for 40 years, and a County Commissioner for three years. He serves on the Public Health Board and Region I Mental Health Board. He is up for reelection in 2010.
Mr. Allen reported on several current projects and issues the County is undertaking.
Through a telemedicine grant Clearwater Valley Hospital is using a “medical robot” which has a monitor that allows a physician to see a patient and to interact at a distance. Approximately 40 people used it the first week it was in use. It gives the advantage of allowing a doctor to treat a patient in remote, rural areas, in prisons, and other areas not easily accessible.
A half-way house, for prisoners, has been built in Lewiston, near the airport. It will serve people needing drug rehabilitation. It is operated by a church in Lewiston.
Region II Public Health Board reports EMT’s got vaccinated for the H1N1 stain of flu. Allen reported all ambulance personnel will have had an opportunity to receive the vaccination.
Allen also gave a report on Elk River’s reduced ambulance service due to lack of population.
Renaming and rural addressing is in place. It was done with the recommendation of the Sheriff’s Department to assist emergency responders and delivery companies in having a more accurate way of locating buildings.
“Funding for ‘Mental Health Court’ has been cut even though it saves thousands of dollars in cost” Allen said. It allowed any case involving drug use or mental health issues to be handled separately. It kept people out of the prison system, saved court costs, and required weekly drug testing.
An engineering firm was hired to fix the 9-Mile slide area. Test holes were dug to determine where the slide was occurring. 57’ were dug out below the old road bed to hit solid rock. Drains below the slide are now draining water away.
Trunk or Treat
Trunk or Treat is again being hosted by King’s Department Store on Hwy. 12. It will be held Halloween Day, Saturday, Oct. 31, 3 to 6 p.m. in King’s parking lot.
King’s will donate gift certificates for the best costumes: A bicycle is the first place prize. Second place will receive $30, and third place will receive a gift certificate for $20. The best dressed vehicle wins a gift certificate of $50.
King’s welcomes participants to make it a safe place for kids to Trunk or Treat.
Director’s report
The Chamber office would like to receive member’s business cards and brochures to include in packets for people relocating to Orofino.
A program, similar to what was known as “Orofino Gold” will be reinstated.
Christmas Fest
Anyone who wishes to participate in the Christmas Fest may contact Teri Ploharz-Bolling at 476-3271 or Nancy Butler at 476-6733.
Upcoming Chamber meeting
The next regular meeting, is Wednesday, Nov. 4, at 12 noon at the Ponderosa Restaurant. The guest speaker will be Dale Durkee, School District Superintendent.