Mayor Steve Widmyer and his wife, Marie, recognized the importance of small business to the local economy during Tuesday morning’s Upbeat Breakfast presented by the Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce.

The owners of five small businesses in Coeur d’Alene, the Widmyers were the keynote speakers at the monthly Chamber event. Mayor Widmyer said small business was hardest hit by the recent recession, but was instrumental in the economic recovery—leading the charge to growing the local economy.

“New businesses mean growth in sales tax and property tax revenues, which helps us pay for police, fire, parks, streets and all of the services of the city,” the mayor said.

Widmyer added that one of the most important parts of opening a small business “is to do what you love! Develop your own niche. Your niche should involve a product or service that you already know something about. And, more importantly, your niche should involve a product or service that you can become passionate about.”

Marie, who runs two women’s clothing stores downtown Coeur d’Alene, spoke of her passion for fashion and how she overcame adversity in her younger years to become a successful business owner with her husband.

With hard work, determination and a positive outlook, she said, you can succeed in small business.

In closing, Mayor Widmyer acknowledged small business is hard work.

“It takes planning and commitment,” he said. “But I believe there is nothing more rewarding than starting a business, setting goals, achieving them, and being successful. I think owning your own business is really the American dream.”



Marie Widmyer addresses the Chamber group as her husband looks on.