Local chamber of commerce helps Idaho Falls business replace weathered American flag

IDAHO FALLS — Thanks to the generosity of the community and Chamber of Commerce, a local business received a new, large American flag.

Paul Baker, president and CEO of the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce, recently saw a Facebook post from a community member expressing concern about a weathered flag flying over the Shilo Inn. .

“I just said, 'We serve Shiloh.' We want to help in any way we can,” Baker said.

He contacted Kirk Hansen, general manager of the Shilo Inn, and asked if he could donate a new flag to the Chamber of Commerce.

Baker purchased the 10-by-15-foot flag for about $160.

“I think it's a blessing in disguise that people who live around here see this flag every day,” Hansen said.

Hansen said the hotel uses many flags and needs to replace them regularly. Idaho's winds and winters make the challenge difficult, and flags often wear out quickly.

On Monday, members of the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Group and chamber staff were invited to the Shilo Inn to go up to the roof and help raise the new flag.

“It was a really heartwarming event. They (hotel staff) were really grateful for the community to come out and show love and support,” Baker said.

Baker plans to take over the old flag and turn it over to a local scout group for proper retirement.

“That's the best and only way to retire the Stars and Stripes. We're very grateful to them,” Hansen said. “Big kudos to the Chamber of Commerce for supporting the community.”

Mr Baker said it was a simple but special event that reminded everyone of what's important in life and why this country is a great place to live and work.

Baker told EastIdahoNews.com that after helping replace the flag at the Shilo Inn, many area residents told the chamber about other businesses flying flags that were a little worn and tattered.

Then, an idea came to me.

“We had a Fourth of July parade, so one of the things we want to do this year is a flag drive,” Baker said.

He said people in the community can donate money or flags to the cause.

“What we're saying to[local businesses]is, 'If you have an old, worn-out flag and we can help you get a new flag, please contact us. Please let us know and we'll see what we can do.''' We are working with local scouting units to ensure the correct evacuation of the flag, Baker said. .

Hansen added that the hotel is very grateful for the support and for receiving the new American flag.

“It's great to be in a city that's grown so much and still has that small-town spirit of being proud to be American and helping each other,” he said.