Chief Springs to celebrate ten years

DAYTON-Ten years ago, Mike and Ann Springs opened Chief Springs Fire and Irons Brew Pub in downtown Dayton. Soon after they opened the pub and brewery, they added a third business by purchasing the pizzeria next door.

After taking over from Skye Book and Brew, they remodeled the space to create the new brewpub. Putting in an extended bar, updating the brewing space downstairs, and utilizing some floor-to-ceiling shelving for firefighting memorabilia, the space became a reflection of Mike's past as a fire chief.

Not everything on display came from Mike's career; he said about fifty percent of the items came from Spring's buddies who brought pieces to add to the collection. It is a very personal display, where firefighters who had worked with Mike created much of the original art and photography.

Some people coming through the restaurant have asked whether the building was once an old fire station, to which he answers, "no, it's not an old fire station; I'm an old firefighter."

Ann and Mike are active business owners. They can usually be found at the pub, pizzeria, downstairs brewing, or in their office above the bar. They are always ready to jump in to support the staff and serve the customers. Their experience in leadership and management has helped them create a team that is as focused on customer service as they are.

Ann's career as a librarian in Oregon and in Walla Walla at Whitman College, along with Mike's career, have given the couple great customer service and communication skills. Good communication is essential when running three related businesses.

The pub has kept to the original seven-day-a-week schedule with sixteen employees, a combination of full and part-time positions. However, with the loss of one employee, the shop had to adjust its Monday and Tuesday morning hours for February. A hard decision, but only temporary as they plan to go back to the old schedule in March, having brought in someone new.

The ability to adjust their business is one reason they are successful. However, after the uncertainty of the last few years, the couple has had to accommodate for the pandemic, shifts in the workforce, and increases in food costs.

Always keeping an eye on the future, the Springs put the business on the market a few years ago. According to Mike, it was a way to test the waters. In a sense, he said the businesses are always for sale. As the brewpub was part of the couple's semi-retirement plan, its future must include new owners. Planning for a full retirement doesn't mean the couple has slowed down; they are looking to expand the operation.

The demand for their beer has grown, and the capacity of the operation has become limiting. They have retail accounts with Bluewood Ski Resort, Whiskey C's, and other local taverns and restaurants. To meet new demand, the Springs are considering adding a production facility or a larger property to house all three businesses. And, of course, it would be in Dayton.

Of course, none of this would be possible without great food and beer. The American pub-style pizzeria offers pizza to eat in and pizza to-go. The tasty thin crust holds fresh toppings and combinations of flavors that keep locals and visitors returning.

Celebrate with Chief Springs Fire and Irons Brew Pub on its tenth anniversary on February 25. It will be a night to toast to the first ten years and the next ten years with great food, beer, and friends.