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After a record-breaking autumn snowfall provided an early taste of winter, Northwest skiers and snowboarders are more than ready to hit the mountains. Fortunately, the North Idaho/Spokane area has five unique mountain resorts to choose from, with each location featuring unique updates and community events in the 2019-2020 winter season. 49° North 49° North Mountain Resort near Chewelah, Washington, has 2,325 skiable acres and seven lifts. The resort prides itself on accommodating every level of skier with a fun, family oriented atmosphere. 49° encourages community support with their Night Skiing series. Offered four times during the season, Night Skiing provides $4 lift tickets to guests who bring three or more cans of food to donate to local food banks. The resort is proud to offer guests an opportunity to view the mountain in a different light while giving back to the community. This season’s Night Skiing dates are December 21, December 28, January 18 and February 15. More information can be found on Ski49N.com and on the mountain’s social media pages. Silver Mountain This winter, Silver Mountain in Kellogg, Idaho, will host the fifth annual Doug E. Fresh Banked Slalom Night Ride. The event was created by the Hayden Ski Shack and celebrates Doug Johnson, a local skier and Ski Shack employee whose early passing left a void in the surrounding ski community. The event raises money for Johnson’s family while celebrating his life. Discounted lift tickets will be available at the designated check-in location from 8 to 9:30am the morning of the event. Participants will race against the clock on snowboard or snow skates through a hand-built bank course in Jam format. This year, the course is in a new location in the Chair 2 Basin, near Terrain Park. Awards will be given by category to the fastest man and woman of the day. Attendees can join an old-school trick contest or simply sit back and take in the spectacle. Live music will be hosted by Mogul’s Lounge, named “everyone’s favorite” post-skiing spot by regulars. The official event date will be announced on SilverMt.com. Brand new this year are combination season passes that are good for both 49° North and Silver Mountain. The passes have no blackout dates. Full details and pricing can be found online. Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area Located along the border of Idaho and Montana, Lookout prides itself on its inclusive nature, affordability and an average snowfall of more than 400 inches a year. This season, the resort will debut its brand-new “Peak 1” SkyTrac Quad Chairlift, an addition that generated steady anticipation throughout its construction process last summer. Lookout will show its appreciation for those who serve the community with free ski days. Teachers’ Appreciation Day on February 9 will highlight elementary, middle and high school teachers; March 6 will highlight nurses, EMTs and paramedics; and March 20 will highlight military, firefighter and police, providing free lift tickets to those with current affiliation ID. Lookout will continue its two annual food drives this year, providing free lift tickets to guests who donate four or more cans of food. The first food drive will be held in early December, allowing the donations to support local families through the holidays; the next will be held just before Easter for the same purpose. The resort encourages guests to “take advantage of the opportunity to help feed the hungry while enjoying some great turns in the process,” said Matthew Sawyer, director of marketing and sales. Finalized dates for each food drive will be released with full details at SkiLookout.com. Schweitzer Mountain Resort Ranked as one of the nation’s top winter destinations, Schweitzer Mountain Resort takes pride in its independent ownership and breathtaking views overlooking three states, Canada, Lake Pend Oreille and the town of Sandpoint. Following a summer of construction and maintenance projects, Schweitzer Mountain Resort will have two new chairlifts in service this winter. The first is the Colburn Triple from Skytrac, expected to allow advanced and expert skiers to quickly access the mountain summit and reach steeper terrain with ease. The second is the Cedar Park Express, a detachable quad chair that will accommodate intermediate skiers and riders in the back bowl. The addition of the new lifts is expected to increase skier capacity, provide seven newly named runs and shorten lift lines, providing an opportunity to enhance Schweitzer’s overall skier experience. The resort’s accessibility was also improved over the summer after the Independent Highway District (IHD) resurfaced the main Schweitzer roundabout and 6.5 miles of the access road. For internet and Wi-Fi users, new fiber optic cables installed from the valley to Schweitzer are expected to improve internet bandwidth. Schweitzer looks forward to their Community Day on December 13, when they will offer $10 lift tickets, with all proceeds benefiting Bonner Partners in Care and Community Cancer Services. The resort has seen immense success with this event and plans to keep up the momentum this winter. For more information, visit Schweitzer.com. Mount Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park Mount Spokane is located 23 miles northeast of Spokane and brings community members together with its annual Brewfest on January 25. Its biggest event of the year, the Brewfest will feature beer and cider tastings at multiple mountain locations, live music at the lodge, and prizes for those who complete their “passport” by visiting all tasting locations. On March 29, Mt. Spokane will hold their food drive for Mead Food Bank. Promoted by Tom Sherry’s SKI4FREE, guests will be provided a lift ticket for eight cans of food or a $20 cash donation. Don’t miss Mt. Spokane’s newest SkyTrac Triple Chairlift, introduced just last year with great success. Mt. Spokane’s full calendar of events can be found at MtSpokane.com. Northwest skiers and snowboarders are in no shortage of options when it comes to enjoying winter sports. Each of the five local mountain resorts provides guests with unique opportunities to engage with the community while making the most of the season. The hardest part is simply choosing where to go first. #local #featurestory

Photo courtesy: Owen Aird Opened in August of 2007 by Bob and Jennifer Palm, Fisherman’s Market, Grill and Sushi has been satisfying customers one diner at a time. Offering their guests a relaxed atmosphere that is family friendly, this is your one-stop shop for the freshest fish and seafood in town, whether you’re looking to shop the market to prepare a meal at home or wanting a fast, casual lunch or dinner. This is the only place in Coeur d’Alene where you can sit down, enjoy a fresh seafood meal with a cold beer or a glass of wine, and then bring home the freshest seafood and prepare it for yourself or a dinner party later! “We hear from our customers every day that we are ‘one of a kind,’” smiles Jennifer. If you’re looking to dine in, menu items feature fresh catches and everything from calamari and eel to salmon, tuna and shellfish. Among the most popular menu items that customers can’t seem to get enough of are Taste of Baja (fish or shrimp taco plate with two tacos topped with shredded cabbage, cilantro, salsa, cotija and jalapeño cream, served with rice and beans) and of course their Fish and Chips (choices include Alaskan cod, mahi-mahi, wild salmon, catfish, Alaskan halibut, black tiger shrimp, small oysters, clam strips or calamari strips, served with traditional coleslaw and your choice of two tartars). A full sushi bar has drawn fans from around North Idaho offering a quick sushi lunch. The menu has all the regular favorites and a few addicting local creations. And there’s sake! Not only can you enjoy sushi in the restaurant, but you can call ahead and have them build a custom platter to take home as well! For shoppers looking to prepare something special at home, the market, with its huge glass cooler, displays the wide selection of wild-caught fish, shellfish and in-house smoked fish, with fresh fish overnighted from Hawaii. At the end of the day, when it comes to what Jennifer and Bob find most rewarding about the business is the customers they serve. Fisherman’s Market, Grill and Sushi is open Monday through Saturday, 11am to 8pm, year-round. Fisherman's Market North Coeur d’Alene 215 W. Kathleen Ave. 208.664.4800 FishermansMarketCdA.com #businessspotlight #coeurdalene

Photo courtesy: Kiersten Patterson Regardless of what stage of life you're in, you must make financial and investment decisions that will be with you for the remainder of your years. But the moves you make when you’re just starting out in your career may be quite different from when you’re retired. So, let’s look at some of these moves, stretched out across your lifetime. In your 20s and 30s: During this period, you should strive to place yourself on a sound financial footing by taking steps such as reducing, and hopefully eliminating, your student loans and embarking on saving for retirement through investments such as a 401(k) and IRA. You also might buy a home, which offers some financial benefits, but be careful not to become “house poor” by devoting too much of your monthly income to mortgage payments. If you have young children, you might also want to start saving for college, possibly through a 529 plan, which offers tax benefits, high contribution limits and the ability to switch beneficiaries, as needed. And if you do have a family, you’ll certainly need to maintain adequate life insurance. Also, since you’re at the early stages of your working life, you should chart a long-term financial and investment strategy with the help of a financial professional. Your strategy should encompass your important goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. And you’ll want to revisit your strategy regularly to accommodate changes in your life and financial situation. In your 40s and 50s: These are the years in which your career advances, leading to bigger salaries. The more you earn, the more you should be putting away in your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan, along with your IRA. During the middle-to-end of this particular period, you might finish helping pay for your child’s higher education—which should free up even more money to put away for retirement. You also may want to consider long-term care insurance, which can help protect you against the devastating costs of an extended stay in a nursing home. In your 60s, 70s … and beyond: Once you’re in this age range, chances are pretty good that you’ll either retire soon or are already retired. (Although, of course, you may well want to work part-time or do some consulting.) However, you certainly haven’t “retired” the need to make financial and investment decisions, because you’ll have plenty, including these: When should I take Social Security? Will my investment portfolio provide me with enough income to help keep me ahead of inflation? How much can I afford to withdraw each year from my retirement accounts without outliving my resources? Again, a financial professional can help you deal with these and other issues. Also, if you haven’t done so, now is the time to draw up your estate plans, so you can leave the type of legacy you desire—one that provides for the next generation (or two) and the charitable organizations you support. You’ll need to work with a legal professional to create estate planning documents and arrangements appropriate for your needs. You will spend a lifetime making financial and investment decisions, so put in the time and effort, and get the help you need, to make the best decisions you can. Edward Jones - Ken Wood 477100 US-95 Suite B Ponderay 208.255.2613 EdwardJones.com #businessspotlight #sandpoint

Photo courtesy: Owen Aird. The Two Seven Public House opened to an eager community on the South Hill in April of 2008 and quickly gained the status as one of Spokane’s best-kept secrets. For more than a decade, the restaurant continues to fulfill its reputation for great food, great drinks and stellar service. “While many newer restaurants come on strong, have a lot of flash, get tons of coverage in the press and social media, and seem super hip for a short time, we have maintained consistency and growth year after year without any of the hype,” says John Grollmus, owner. The Two Seven follows the same simple concept as its sister restaurants The Elk, El Que and Geno’s in Spokane, Moon Time in Coeur d’Alene and The Porch in Hayden Lake—top-notch service, creative food and drink at reasonable prices, all served up in a comfortable environment. Along with their inventive house-made soups and weekly specials, customer favorite menu items include, but are most certainly not limited to, the Salpicon Texas Shredded Beef Tacos, Crispy Beer-Battered Fish Tacos, French Dip Royale, and the Chicken Satay Skewer appetizer. John loves that he has built a fun and dynamic environment at The Two Seven, and he enjoys the constant interaction with his guests. “Gotta give a shout out here to the WSU School of Hotel/Restaurant Administration and all the instructors who prepared me so well for this path in life,” John says. “Go Cougs!” In addition, at each one of his establishments, John is proud that he has been able to create great jobs for his employees—which is why you’ll see the same friendly faces paired with exceptional service every time you visit. Whether you’re looking for a place to take the whole family or just a great spot for a beer and a snack, check out the Two Seven, where the friendly staff will leave you with a smile on your face and money in the bank. Two Seven Public House Spokane’s South Hill 2727 S. Mt. Vernon St. #5 509.473.9766 WeDontHaveOne.com #businessspotlight #southhill #spokane

Photo courtesy: Owen Aird. Considered a foodies’ paradise, it’s no wonder The Culinary Stone is a perfect place to gather with family and friends to shop, eat or attend one of the many classes they offer. Originally opened in November of 2013, the 5,500-square-foot gourmet heaven was dreamt up for and by those with a serious passion for the culinary arts and gathering of community. The owner, Sandy Volkar, says that they “wanted it to be a place for culinary enthusiasts of all levels.” Filled with food, wine and affordable quality kitchen gadgets from all over the world, The Culinary Stone is more than just a stop on the errands list; it's about coming and having an experience and taking something away with you. This unique destination is popular by many as you can explore the culinary treasures, shop and enjoy a bite to eat. “The goal is to be able to continue to build upon what we have started,'' states Sandy, “to provide an exceptional customer experience and culinary environment for the whole community.” Plan to spend some time when you stop in, as this isn't your typical in-and-out shop. The Culinary Stone is a palatable paradise that will take time to traverse through all its many offerings. The fixtures inside have stories on how they came about being part of the creation as well. When they began envisioning the interior of the space, they believed in repurposing items found from all over the area and making them useful again. While you're visiting, be sure to stop in at the deli and enjoy a gourmet sandwich complemented by a glass of wine or beer. Offering top-quality Boar’s Heads meats and locally sourced cheeses and breads, the flavors all ring an ambrosial tone of a high-quality sandwich but with a reasonable price tag. Or stop in the café for some pastries and a golden latte. Dealing with local farmers and suppliers, this grass roots-minded company will continue to be a staple in the Idaho and Inland Northwest community for years to come. The Culinary Stone Coeur d'Alene at Riverstone 2129 N. Main St. 208.277.4116 CulinaryStone.com #businessspotlight #coeurdalene

Photo courtesy: Kami Bremer. Fantastic wine, delicious food, fun entertainment and Sandpoint history all come together at Sandpoint’s award-winning winery. You’ll find the Pend d’Oreille Winery tasting room right in the heart of downtown at Third Avenue and Cedar Street inside the beautifully restored Belwood Building. The 100-year-old building provides the perfect ambiance for trying some of the region’s best wines. The unique winery prides itself on consistency and quality, two of the many reasons it has received countless awards and the respect of many wine drinkers over the past 25 years. The refillable wine bottles are a feature many guests take advantage of, bringing in their 1.5-liter bottle to be refilled with the popular Bistro Rouge and receiving their 10th bottle free. Refill stations are also located at Winter Ridge Natural Foods in Sandpoint, Pilgrim’s Market in Coeur d’Alene and The Old Ice House Pizzeria in Hope. Pend d’Oreille Winery is also running a winter special on its Gold Medal-winning Riesling; just $10 when you pick up a bottle to go! If you like having a wide selection at home, consider joining the wine club, which offers several different levels. There is no cost to join, and members not only receive their bottles quarterly but special discounts, exclusive wine club events and 25 percent off all quarterly releases. The pizzas, dips, hummus, salads and farmers boards are popular with those enjoying a tasting, glass or bottle. Expert staff can recommend bites to eat that pair nicely with the wine you’ve chosen. And for those who prefer, there is locally crafted beer available. The music provided at the winery on Fridays and Saturdays draws performers from all over the Northwest, as well as many local performing artists. And each Sunday offers an opportunity to enjoy piano music while relaxing in the beautifully renovated brick building. With nearly 25 years in business owners Jim Bopp and Kylie Presta will continue to be a big part of Sandpoint. “We are so grateful for our local community. We want to be involved in community events, sponsor community activities and give back to the locals who support us year-round,” says Kylie. “It’s very humbling to see people returning again and again,” says Jim. “It’s a gift to not only be able to own and operate this winery but to be able to live in Sandpoint as well.” Whether you live in Sandpoint or are visiting for your first time, Pend d’Oreille Winery is a must stop. Open 11am to 8pm daily, once you visit, you’re sure to return. Pend d’Oreille Winery Sandpoint, ID 301 Cedar St. 208.265.8545 POWine.com #sandpoint #businessspotlight

Photo courtesy: Riverbank Taphouse. When it comes to mastering the craft beer experience, the true test is whether or not you’re enjoying every sip. At Riverbank Taphouse, the exciting new venue inside Northern Quest Resort & Casino, you’ll find an extensive menu of beverages, including a rotating list of mouthwatering IPAs, lagers, ambers, ales and stouts ... and some nitros, seltzers and craft cocktails, too. If you’re having trouble deciding, pick a flight of four and enjoy multiple 4-ounce tastings. Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur, or you’re new to the culture and want to learn more, the servers and bartenders at Riverbank Taphouse are anxious to share their knowledge and recommendations. “All of our servers and bartenders are Cicerone certified and have completed the Beer Appreciation course at Eastern Washington University,” says Riverbank Taphouse Cicerone Supervisor Tyler Staples, a self-proclaimed beer nerd. “They know how each beer style is produced and what temperature it’s supposed to be served at, as per the style. They know the glassware it should be served in and what the glass should look like when it’s beer clean, as opposed to just visibly clean.” With 52 taps, Riverbank Taphouse has a curated tap list. Everything on the menu has been deliberately selected to provide a wide range of all beer styles. “We keep such a wide array of beers, there’s always going to be at least three or four beers that will complement your dish, and your servers have great suggestions on options,” says Staples. “With 6,000 breweries in the United States and 20,000 brands worldwide, it takes a certain level of knowledge to handle that.” At Riverbank Taphouse, you can think of their servers and bartenders as the best beer tutors in town. While you’re studying for your final beer selections, don’t forget to sample some of the delicious shareables featured on a menu designed to complement all kinds of beer selections. Since the day Riverbank Taphouse opened its doors to the public, one of the most popular items has been the oversized Charcuterie Pretzel, featuring house-made pickled vegetables, assorted cured meats and cheese. New items recently added to the menu include a seasonal salad, a pub-style classic burger with house-made sauce, and Banh Mi Chicken Tacos with fresh and pickled vegetables and Asian-inspired slaw. So bring your friends and your sense of adventure to Riverbank Taphouse and study up! Your toughest decision will be which delicious drinks and plates to try and whether to share them or keep them all to yourself! Open Sunday through Thursday at 3pm, and now open Fridays and Saturdays for lunch starting at 11am. Follow Riverbank Taphouse on the Untappd app to get the most updated tap list and visit the Northern Quest Blog at NorthernQuest.com/riverbank-blog to learn more about what makes Riverbank Taphouse unique. Riverbank Taphouse at Northern Quest Resort & Casino Airway Heights 100 N. Hayford Rd. 877.871.6772 NortherQuest.com #airwayheights #businessspotlight

Photo courtesy: Sarah Hamilton Face. Unparalleled customer service combined with experienced providers and supreme rejuvenation services is what sets Sarah Hamilton Face in Liberty Lake, Washington, apart from every other medical spa in the area. The office, which is in the top 2 percent in the country for Botox and dermal fillers, provides a beautiful and bright boutique-style space and feel, complemented by a pristine medical environment. Sarah Hamilton Face, a skin rejuvenation medical practice, incorporates injectables such as Botox and fillers, lasers and skin care. “Our goal is to help you achieve glowing skin,” affirms Sarah Hamilton, owner. Sarah, a registered nurse for 24 years, an aesthetics nurse specialist for 17 and a clinical nutritionist, believes it is a privilege to be able to be in a field where she can educate patients and create a long-term plan to achieve their goals, spending numerous hours during the initial consultation to discuss skin care, treatments and timelines to ensure each client receives the ultimate desired results. “Empowering women and men to feel and look their best is so rewarding to me,” says Sarah. “As a national trainer and speaker for both Allergan and Galderma (the two main companies in the industry), I love educating patients and colleagues.” Having the opportunity to positively transform lives is where Sarah finds true fulfillment. As one grateful client expresses: “I just wanted you to know how much you have impacted not only my skin and face but my life. … Today my skin is the clearest and most even it has ever been, and I am back to me. … I feel so blessed to have found you. You are a bright light and goodness and have poured that info my life.” Sarah Hamilton Face has six providers on staff, all of whom have six to 17 years of experience in the aesthetics field. “You won’t find this caliber of experience anywhere else. It sounds cliché, but experience really matters. One of our nurses is also a national laser trainer.” Their medical director, Dr. Geoffrey Stiller of Stiller Aesthetics in Spokane, is a double board-certified cosmetic surgeon who has won national awards for his work. If you are looking for an advanced medical spa where you can be confident in a team who will dedicate their time and experience to ensure they achieve your desired results, now is the time to schedule a consultation at Sarah Hamilton Face. Sarah Hamilton Face Liberty Lake 1334 N. Whitman Lane, Suite 210 509.210.0228 SarahHamiltonFace.com #libertylake #businessspotlight

Photo courtesy: Owen Aird. “We feel so blessed to be a part of this amazing community.” Husband-and-wife team Viljo and Autumn Basso have been bringing unique and distinct flavors to the Coeur d’Alene area since 2007, when they opened Syringa Japanese Café and Sushi Bar. Satisfying customers for more than a decade, Viljo and Autumn have been serving guests the best sushi and modern Japanese cuisine North Idaho has to offer! Using only fresh high-quality ingredients and wonderful flavors in each dish they serve, guests will taste the difference. And with a flair for originality and excellence, Syringa continues to stand apart from the rest. Down the street from Syringa is where you will find The Bluebird, a midtown eatery, which the husband-and-wife team opened in 2016. It quickly gained a large following that continues to flourish. In their endeavor, Viljo and Autumn have delivered a casual neighborhood bistro-style restaurant. The Bluebird is an eclectic Northwest bistro—the menu inspired by the couple’s 20-plus years of culinary travels and adventures. Seasonal as much as possible, the menu items change frequently with specials offered weekly, allowing diners to try something new each time they visit. And lunch is now served six days a week. To accompany the deliciously unique menu, The Bluebird has an outstanding wine list offering incredible selections from all over the world. In addition to the wine, they have a great selection of beer, ciders and sours. The Bluebird has found its home in Coeur d’Alene’s midtown, and the neighborhood couldn’t be happier. “Our goal was to open the kind of restaurant we like to dine at and bring more dining variety to Coeur d’Alene,” says Autumn. When dining options offered by the couple seemed like they couldn’t get any better, the Bassos added yet another restaurant to the mix—Monarch Ramen + Noodle House. Opened fall of 2019 at 1401 North Fourth Street, the intimate and casual 42-seat restaurant features a menu of house-specialty ramen and noodle dishes (including “build-your-own” ramen), as well as a variety of small plate options. “We are most excited to fill the void and bring new flavor to town,” states Autumn, adding that “the Monarch complements Syringa … in that we are taking dishes we have done at Syringa and putting a Monarch twist on them.” The restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday, 11am to 8pm. Viljo and Autumn are also the duo behind The White Pine, midtown’s favorite coffee café. Serving up DOMA Coffee, all syrups are house made with no artificial ingredients, and the delicious fresh pastries are baked in-house daily. From croissants and scones to macarons and more, it's the perfectly quaint little spot to warm you up on a cold winter's day. When it comes to what makes their restaurants distinctive among the rest, Viljo says, “At each place, we’ve had the ability to create a friendly local neighborhood vibe. The food is unique, the customers are unique, and the employees are unique.” “We are really proud of our crew at each of the places,” adds Autumn. “They help make each place special.” Whether you take a seat at Syringa, The Bluebird, Monarch or White Pine, Viljo, Autumn and their staff are ready to serve you and help create a dining experience you’ll savor. Monarch Ramen + Noodle House Coeur d'Alene 1401 N. Fourth St. 208.966.4230 The White Pine Midtown Coeur d'Alene 814 N. Fourth St. 208.966.4131 The Bluebird Midtown Coeur d’Alene 816 N. Fourth St. 208.665.3777 MidtownBluebird.com Syringa Japanese Café & Sushi Bar Coeur d’Alene 1710 N. Fourth St. 208.664.2718 SyringaSushi.com #coeurdalene #businessspotlight

The White House Grill For more than two decades, Raci Erdem, chef and owner, has been bringing the flavors of the Mediterranean—and its garlicky goodness—to eager diners, and guests continue to eat it up! Serving the Post Falls community for 23 years, The White House Grill offers a comfortable and relaxed family friendly environment, where patrons of all ages are invited to take a seat at this fun and loud—but by no means obnoxious—restaurant. Mediterranean music fills the air, as does the aroma of garlic. Seafood, vegetables, pasta and lamb dishes fill the menu, complemented by a full bar featuring handcrafted cocktails, 12 beers on tap, an extensive wine list and a beautiful scotch list—hand selected by Raci himself. Raci looks forward to guests coming into the restaurant, not just for the food and drink, but to enjoy the overall experience. “Our job is to put you in a great mood with some cool music, delicious food and awesome drinks, all for a great value that you won’t find at any chain restaurant,” he says. Since day one, The White House Grill has offered the same freshness, quality of food, fun environment and good prices. And every year since first opening, the seats continue to be filled. Join them for lunch and dinner daily: Sunday through Thursday 11am to 10pm, Friday and Saturday 11am to 11pm. They welcome late-night diners any day of the week. The Oval Office With the success of The White House Grill, Raci decided it was time to open a second restaurant, and The Oval Office was born in 2006. The cozy, romantic bistro-style eatery is loud and busy, bustling like a big-city restaurant with an upscale appeal. Here, patrons can appreciate flavors from around the world with the small-plate and entrée offerings. The menu stays consistent throughout the year so guests know that the next time they return they will always find the same great food. Don’t be surprised though—you may just find a few new items on the menu. When it comes to libations, guests will be treated to a full bar featuring great beer, wine and specialty cocktails. Unlike other martini lists, it features politically inspired specialty martinis, from The President to The Impeachment. There’s something on the menu for anyone looking for a good martini—and a good time! The Oval Office is known for its happiest of happy hours in the Northwest, offered twice daily. With all martinis and appetizers offered at a fraction of the price, it’s the best time to head over to The Oval Office. The community fireplace on the large outside patio can seat 12 around it, where guests have the option to dine and imbibe outside. The European-style awning allows patio dining year-round! Open Monday through Friday 11am to 11pm and Saturday and Sunday 3 to 11pm, it's the perfect spot for late-night dining any day of the week. This American bistro with a foreigner chef touch is reason alone to take a drive to Post Falls and make a visit to The Oval Office. Martini anyone? WhiteHouseGrill.com The White House Grill Post Falls 712 N. Spokane St. 208.777.9672 The Oval Office Bistro and Martini Bar Post Falls 620 N. Spokane St. 208.777.2102 #postfalls #businessspotlight #local

RIVERSTONE'S 20TH ANNIVERSARY September 20 & 21 Coeur d'Alene Celebrate the 20th anniversary of Riverstone during their two-day event which will feature Taste of Riverstone with food samplings from all Riverstone restaurants, street fair, spectacular fire and lights shows, live music, bounce house and contests. Read more... VALLEYFEST September 20 & 21 Spokane Valley The weekend festivities included for 2019 include Totfest, a car show, astronomy, Step UP for Down Syndrome walk, interactive activities, fishing at the falls, robotics and STEM showcase, live entertainment on three stages, boat/bike/run triathlon, 5k/10k run, duathlon and more! Read more... HIGHLIGHTED EVENTS SEPTEMBER 20 & 21 COEUR D'ALENE OKTOBERFEST This two-day bash will feature seven live bands, more than 30 beers and ciders, three biergarten locations (two outdoors and one indoor) along with kegs scattered throughout downtown businesses. This fun filled weekend is complete with the Gran Fondo bike races on Saturday! Read more... SEPTEMBER 20 & 21 RUNWAY RENEGADES FASHION SHOW Don't miss the 2019 Inland Northwest Craft Beer Festival at Avista Stadium in Spokane, where 40 craft breweries will be pouring more than 200 different beers. The weekend includes live music, great food and baseball-themed fun. The event takes place 4 to 9pm Friday (21+)and noon to 6pm Saturday all ages). Read more... SEPTEMBER 20 & 21 THINK BIG FESTIVAL Held in Downtown Coeur d'Alene at various locations, this annual event educates and empowers entrepreneurs by focusing on the speed at which technology is moving and our role in its progression. There will be thought-provoking speakers, live startup pitch sessions, tech parties around town and innovative minds. It's an experience you won’t want to miss! Read more... SEPTEMBER 21 4TH ANNUAL BOOBS N BEER Don't miss the fourth annual Boobs 'n Beer 5k Fun Run in Sandpoint. Celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month by sporting head-to-toe pink or embrace the Oktoberfest theme and break out the lederhosen. After the race join the community for an Oktoberfest at Matchwood Brewing. For the kids, there will also be a Kid's Zone with face painting and bounce houses. Read more... For more happenings this week ... CLICK HERE To read the Summer 2019 issue of SIZZLE .... CLICK HERE #newsletter

16TH ANNUAL PUMPKIN BALL October 26 Spokane Held at The Davenport Grand Hotel, the 16th Annual Pumpkin Ball is a black-tie gala raising money to help children served by Sacred Heart Children's Hospital and Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery and features a gourmet three-course meal, live music and dancing, live and silent auctions, competitive pumpkin carving and more! Read more... 12TH ANNUAL MIRA-BOO HALLOWEEN BASH October 26 Spokane Valley Head to Mirabeau Park Hotel in Spokane Valley for the annual Mira-BOO Halloween Party Saturday, October 26. Held 9pm to 1am, there will be more than $1,000 in cash and prizes, DJ Dean Jaxon from KEY 101.1, scary drink specials and more! Don't forget to come dressed in your Halloween best! Read more... HIGHLIGHTED EVENTS OCTOBER 25 PUMPKIN CARVING & WINE PARTY If you're looking to elevate your pumpkin carving skills to the next level, this fun and interactive class at Pilgrim's Market in Coeur d'Alene will feature cutting-edge techniques that will unlock your creativity and make your creations illuminate on Halloween night! During the class, you'll enjoy snacks and two glasses of wine. The fun takes place starting at 5:30 tonight! Read more... OCTOBER 26 FALL FEST & APPLE PALOOZA The Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association invites you to come shop and taste the best of the season’s harvest at the final Farmers Market of the season. There will be free hayrides, harvest produce, music, food and—everyone's favorite—Apple Palooza. This apple tasting event takes place at various participating businesses throughout Downtown Coeur d'Alene. Read more... OCTOBER 26 7TH ANNUAL CRAFT BEER & COOKIES Come and enjoy local craft beers and iconic Girl Scout cookies as local breweries compete for the Best Craft Beer and Cookie pairing! Held 4 to 7pm at the Girls Scouts Program Center in Spokane, all proceeds go to support local Girl Scouts in the area. Those in attendance will also enjoy live music, games and local food trucks. Tickets include a tasting glass, six 5-ounce pours and cookies. Read more... OCTOBER 26 CAULDRONS & COCKTAILS Join the Coeur d'Alene Rotary for one of the biggest Halloween parties in North Idaho on Saturday, October 26, from 7:30 to 11:30pm! Held at Ponderosa Springs Golf Course in Coeur d'Alene, the evening will include a costume contest, games, prizes, DJ, food and drink! Appetizers and dessert bar are included in the price of each ticket as well as a dessert bar. Read more... For more happenings this week ... CLICK HERE To read the Summer 2019 issue of SIZZLE .... CLICK HERE #newsletter

NEW LEAF NURSERY'S FALL FESTIVAL October 11 - 13 Hayden Head to Hayden for New Leaf Nursery's Fall Festival. This three-day event will feature a free petting zoo, pumpkin patch, hay maze, pony rides, crafts and games, bouncy house, obstacle course and zorbing, food and drink, local artisans and vendors, and more! Read more... HARVEST FALL FEST October 11 - 13 Greenbluff High Country Orchard invites you out for a great day in the country 10am to 5pm. From a vendor and crafts fair, live music and food to a variety of kids' activities, local farm fresh produce, apple cider, pumpkins and more, it's the perfect way to spend a fall day. Read more... HIGHLIGHTED EVENTS OCTOBER 12 ARTIST SHOWCASE ART AUCTION The 13th annual Artist Showcase Art Auction is the main fundraiser for the Spokane Valley Arts Council and celebrates the art of local professional artists. Held at CenterPlace Regional Event Center in Spokane Valley, there will be a silent auction and quick-finish demonstrations by various artists from 5 to 6:30pm, with dinner and live auction from 6 to 9pm. Read more... OCTOBER 12 HARVEST MOON - UGM FUNDRAISERR Bring your friends and family to the Human Rights Education Institute in Coeur d'Alene and create your own masterpiece for $25 per person. Snack and Paint will be providing the supplies, a snack and water. Whether you're a Picasso in the making or a novice, this class is for you. In addition, 20 percent of your ticket will be donated to Union Gospel Mission (UGM). Read more... OCTOBER 12 PAWS & PUMPKINS ON THE PRAIRIE Prairie Home Farm in Coeur d'Alene is turning the place over to the dogs on Saturday, October 12. Join them 1 to 4pm for pumpkin portraits, pet seminars, refreshments and an adopt-athon with the Kootenai Humane Society. All vendors will be donating a portion of their proceeds to the Humane Society. Admission is free, though donations are welcome. Read more... OCTOBER 13 SPOKANE MARATHON This Sunday, October 13, athletes will be coming together for this year's Spokane Marathon! Featuring a full marathon, marathon relay, half marathon and 10k, the courses are hilly and run partly along the Spokane River, while the 10k course follows the beautiful Centennial Trail. The Spokane Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifier. Read more... For more happenings this week ... CLICK HERE To read the Summer 2019 issue of SIZZLE .... CLICK HERE #newsletter

Photo courtesy: MAX at Mirabeau Park Hotel. “Our philosophy is to create, for our honored guests, the ambiance of a dynamic dining environment that is both casual and relaxed, yet at the same time exciting and stimulating.” Catering to diners of all ages since day one with its extraordinary breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert and weekend brunch, MAX at Mirabeau offers nothing less than award-winning service year after year paired with an unforgettable experience that keeps bringing locals and visitors back for more. “Three-hundred-sixty-five days a year, MAX strives to be an exceptional Spokane restaurant, which serves as a focal point for your culinary and entertainment needs,” says Ben Meharg, general manager. The exemplary culinary team behind the eclectic bistro-style food at MAX includes: Shawn Matlock, executive chef and director of food and beverage; and Mike Durbin, chef de cuisine. These two chefs are committed to creating only the best product to serve each and every guest. Staple items you’ll find on the menu include Tenderloin of Beef Medallions a la MAX, Huckleberry Baby Back Pork Ribs, Ribeye Steak, Roasted Ginger Duck, Mediterranean-Seared Sea Bass, Washington Apple and Cougar Gold Salad, Butternut Squash and Toasted Hazelnut Risotto, and the MAX Burger. Their best-selling item, according to Ben, is their 12-ounce USDA Prime New York Peppercorn Steak. “Our chefs use a blend of four peppercorns and spice then caramelize and sear this USDA Prime Grade steak upon guest request. It is finished with a French cream demi-glace reduction. The whole nature of this dish is created by a three-day simmering process of roasting veal bones in-house to give you an intense, flavorful stock, which gives you the base for the finalization of the sauce and such a tantalizing overall flavor.” The food is complemented by the libations, which include more than 450 different bottles of local and regional wines, 12 draft beers on tap (including the exclusive Mirabeau Blues Pale Ale made by Twelve String Brewery) and a variety of signature cocktails made with their house-made syrups. If you are looking for a location for that special occasion or party, MAX can host large or small events in the restaurant. They offer private meeting rooms from 10 to 400 people and can also do outside catering, setting a menu to any request or theme. MAX offers two daily happy hours from 3 to 6pm and again from 9pm to close in the lounge and hosts live music each Friday and Saturday evening starting at 9pm, a Saturday and Sunday Bloody Mary Bar from 9am to 2pm, and First Wednesday Wine Tasting and Art Exhibition featuring a different winery and artist each month. Also be sure to check the website for special annual events hosted by Mirabeau Park Hotel. MAX at Mirabeau is the only winner of Wine Spectator magazine’s two glass “Best of Award of Excellence” in the entire Inland Northwest! MAX at Mirabeau is open daily starting at 6am and open until midnight on Sunday, 1am Monday through Thursday and 2am on Friday and Saturday. Whether it is the food, entertainment, atmosphere, service or just for doing good business, MAX at Mirabeau in Spokane Valley continues to stand as a symbol of excellence. MAX at Mirabeau Park Hotel Spokane Valley, Washington 1100 N. Sullivan Rd. 509.922.6252 MAXatMirabeau.com #spokanevalley #businessspotlight

Photo courtesy: Kiersten Patterson. It's the place where you build your life, your family, and create lasting memories. Your home is the foundation of all that happens in your life, and it's likely the largest financial investment you will ever make. The process of buying or selling a home is exciting; but the reality is that it can also be stressful. With The Davies Real Estate Team of NextHome Living the Northwest, clients are finding that the experience is one they will find enjoyable. • Reliable - You can rely on the Davies Team’s integrity, hard work, advanced technology and personalized service in every detail of your real estate transaction. Over 25 years of professional business experience and marketing will result in not only getting top dollar for your home but saving you time. • Relationship Oriented - In real estate, properties are the commodity, but it’s the relationships that drive the Davies’ business vision. They really listen to your needs and desires. They’ve been where you are, so they can relate. Buyers and sellers become lifelong friends. It’s not just another sale or listing; it’s a commitment beyond that, a foundation for business. Studies demonstrate that 85 percent of buyers and sellers said they would use their agent again. Only 24 percent actually do. Why? Follow through. The Davies Real Estate Team are Zillow Premier Agents and have buyers from all over the world call on them to assist them in finding the perfect home in North Idaho. When clients arrive from out of town, the team provides concierge service, picking up their clients at the airport and arranging local accommodations. Several of the Davies’ clients have purchased property in North Idaho without ever actually visiting the area, thanks to the team’s ability to provide exceptional photography, videos and drone footage to potential buyers. • Recent Review - “We just completed purchasing our rural dream property outside of Sandpoint. We knew there would be some difficulties with obtaining this home and acreage, but what a ride it has been. Tom and Lisa Davies have been our realtors through this eight-month journey and have stayed with us through thick and thin. They have consulted attorneys and specialists, attended several city and county meetings, networked with their many contacts at the city and county level, and kept us informed every step of the way. Even when we would become discouraged, they would keep us focused on the light at the end of the tunnel and help us be realistic about the slow and arduous process. In the end, it has been so worth it! We miss our 7pm phone calls with Tom and Lisa, as we consider them friends now. They have always gone above and beyond. They helped book hotels when we flew in, provided snacks, hand warmers in winter and countless other thoughtful things. Tom is a wealth of information and Lisa is always so cheerful and gracious. Lisa actually found our property for us. She is an amazing agent. We can't be happier! If you are looking for homes or property in the Sandpoint area, we highly recommend the Davies Team. You won't find a more dedicated, knowledgeable, thorough and nicer team to work with!” • Remaining Thankful - Tom and Lisa have started a new adventure in real estate together! They feel very blessed to have helped so many buyers and sellers in their new journey in the Panhandle. Additionally, they were very honored that the people of Bonner County selected their team as their #1 Real Estate Office! What a surprise for their first year. Not only did the local community recognize the Davies Team, but Zillow clients all over the USA have rated them “Best of Zillow,” representing the top 10 percent of all Realtors in customer satisfaction! That's quite an honor. The bar has been set high, and Tom and Lisa will strive to continue to deliver a 7-Star service through the entire home buying or selling process. And they don't stop there! They continue to be thankful for their relationships with their clients and have their “Friends and Family” quarterly seasonal events throughout the year. The recent Fall Clark Fork Delta Lake Cruise was undoubtedly a hit, according to Lisa. “We enjoyed perfect fall weather, new friendships were made with one another, and we had an opportunity to build lasting relationships with our new friends.” The Winter Friends and Family event will be at Western Pleasure Guest Ranch in December. We’re excited to introduce our licensed transaction coordinator! “Hi! My name is Amy, and I am the transaction coordinator for the Davies Team at NextHome Living the Northwest. I am here to support you and your NextHome agent, making your experience with us as seamless, stress-free and fun as possible. I grew up in Deer Park, Washington, and spent most holidays and summers with family in Sandpoint. After getting a business degree from Central Washington University, I lived in Seattle and worked in corporate sales. I can happily say that six years ago I decided to move to Sandpoint and haven't looked back! Outside of real estate, I enjoy being outdoors, gardening, reading, traveling, spending time with friends and family. I look forward to being a part of your NextHome adventure!” The Davies Real Estate Team NextHome Living the Northwest Sandpoint, ID 101 W. Superior St. 208.920.9062 IdahoPanhandleRealty@gmail.com IdahoPanhandleRealty.com #sandpoint #businessspotlight