NIC’s drama club “Actors, Vagabonds and Such” surprised attendees at the Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce’s 100th anniversary celebration flash mob style. Sporting authentic ’50s garb, they ran into the crowd when signaled by their adviser Joe Jacoby. Suddenly the back of the room was full of swing dancers, moving in and out in a series of dances and ending in a circle, in which they showed off their favorite moves. Some of the attendees joined in, though careful to avoid spilling their wine.
The flash mob dance lasted about eight minutes. When finished, the flash mob stood for a brief bow and photo and then collectively “mobbed” the free food table.
Throughout the evening’s festivities, the reception area of the commerce building was packed well over capacity with a wide range of guests out to celebrate. Eventually, the crowd reached a density usually only witnessed at concerts. When the Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves’ dancers stormed, the party people could be seen trying to slide along the walls to get a better view.
The ’50s-themed anniversary celebration was sponsored by North Idaho College, and food and refreshments were provided by NIC’s culinary program.
“It’s a lot of fun to get out and help in the community,” said Matt Miller, 18, culinary arts, Sandpoint.
The culinary students volunteered to be part of the celebration and to get a chance to treat the public to their delicacies. The chefs to-be brought an excellent variety of entrées including miniature hamburgers, shish kebabs, root beer floats, cookies, and Jello shots. Lots of Jello shots.
Various prizes were awarded during the night, including $100 cash, a $50 iTunes gift card and $50 for skin care services.
A hula-hoop contest was held, in which NIC’s president and vice president both participated, as well as several members of the chamber and other attendees. On-lookers roared with wine-fueled laughter and friends met and talked while enjoying kabobs from the well-stocked food bar.
A story was told by President Priscilla Bell about how during the ‘50s, NIC’s was going to be moved to Sandpoint. Her story told of how the Chamber of Commerce banded together with the community to make sure NIC stayed here in Coeur d’Alene. Since then, NIC and the chamber have had a strong relationship.
“The commerce provides NIC with a conduit to connect with the community,” said Mark Browning, NIC’s vice president of communication and marketing.
Deanna Goodlander a member of the Public Works Committee, a board member and treasurer of Panhandle Area Council and city council liaison to the Arts Commission was in attendance. Her father Orrin Lee was first president of NIC and Lee Hall was named after him.
Tim Herzog, county commissioner candidate and member of local car clubs, brought his custom 1950 Studebaker Commander (also known as a bullet nose, due to its distinctive front end design). Herzog’s hotrod added extra flair to the ‘50s theme.
