Chewelah Chamber of Commerce Welcomes New Staff and Community Partnerships

The Chewelah Chamber of Commerce has been joined by new faces and is launching new initiatives, while maintaining local traditions, according to new Office Manager Tabitha Baugh. “The Chewelah Chamber has seen several exciting updates this year,” Baugh said in an email. Along with her hire, and new, recently-elected officers, resident Debbie Akers is now serving as president, Melissa Allerdings as vice president, Stephania Wuesthoff as treasurer, and Tammy Baxter as secretary.

“We’re grateful for the leadership and dedication of this team as we continue building on the Chamber’s work to support local businesses, events, and community initiatives,” Baugh said. She added that the chamber has also focused on community partnerships, including hosting a community parade during Chewelah’s America 250 celebration. Another initiative the chamber is working on is a community-wide volunteer directory at chewelah.org/volunteer.

“This effort goes beyond the Chamber itself and is designed to help connect people who want to get involved with local organizations, events, and community needs. Our volunteer coordinator, Tammy Baxter, is helping match volunteers with opportunities throughout the community, making it easier for people to find ways to plug in and support Chewelah,” Baugh said.

The Chewelah Chamber of Commerce is also aiming to expand their value to their members through added marketing opportunities such as advertising in local publications. Even though the organization is focused on new initiatives and staff, familiar, chamber-led events are also still being planned such as the annual Chamber Auction & Dinner on Oct. 3, and BooFest on Oct. 30-31.

Baugh said, “These events continue to be important opportunities to bring the community together, support local businesses, and create memorable experiences for both residents and visitors.” Despite launching new initiatives and maintaining community events, the chamber has faced challenges; primarily finding meaningful ways to support local businesses through uncertain economic conditions.

Baugh shared, “Small businesses are navigating rising costs, shifting consumer habits, and ongoing pressure on time and resources. Our focus has been on continuing to provide visibility, connection, and advocacy for our business community – whether that’s through events, marketing support, tourism promotion, or simply creating opportunities for collaboration and shared problem-solving.”

She added, “We’re incredibly proud of the energy and dedication that exists in Chewelah right now. From local businesses and nonprofits to volunteers and civic leaders, there are so many people working hard behind the scenes to make this community stronger.”