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The Greenbriar Inn opened its doors back in 1985 in a beautiful historic 1908 building just a few blocks from Downtown Coeur d’Alene. For more than three decades, owners Bob and Kris McIlvenna have welcomed their guests into their warm and inviting inn offering seven suites, each with its own distinct look mixed with antique and replica furnishings. There are many antiques mixed with more modern comforts, providing guests a cozy and eclectic atmosphere. “We have strived to remain as true to its original structure as possible, with a nod to modern conveniences,” says Kris. What started as a bed and breakfast added catering to the mix in 1986. Greenbriar Catering is the largest independent caterer in North Idaho, also catering to Eastern Washington, and has won many awards over the years. Greenbriar has gone through three major remodels, the most recent being the 315 Restaurant, which Bob and Kris opened in 2008 with a martini and tapas bar. Today, the 111-year-old inn greets you with its simplicity and elegance the moment you walk through the door. Take a seat at the stylish bar and order from the modestly priced wine list or dine at a table near one of the two fireplaces. To add to the ambiance, live soft music plays every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday evening. The restaurant sits on the main floor, featuring a flavorful and diverse menu of starters, tapas and entrées. In addition, you can choose from a selection of handcrafted martinis and cocktails, beer and wine, and nonalcoholic beverages and cocktails. Find more small-plate options than ever at prices as low as $3 per plate. And when it comes to their handcrafted cocktail selection, they offer specials weekly, and you can be assured that their award-winning bar and bartenders will be doing something special. If you are looking for someone to cater your special event on-site or off, The Greenbriar has you covered. They can cater up to 70 people indoors at their location (up to 150 during the summer months) or off site for parties up to 1,000! Choose from an extensive appetizer and dinner menu that includes many nationalities as well as barbecue. "We have a special nonprofit pricing package," says Kris. "We also offer wedding events a special package on rooms at The Greenbriar, as well as special pricing for the wedding or the reception if we're doing a rehearsal dinner or vice versa." Call for an appointment or a phone consultation at 208.667.9660 ext.1. Ask for Kris or Danielle. With its garden setting just steps from downtown, whether you're a local or visitor to the area, this is a unique place to gather with friends or family, as it is a 1908 Nationally Registered property with lots of charm, a great bar and restaurant. Looking for dinner and a romantic overnight stay? Look no further than the Greenbriar Inn. 315 Restaurant at The Greenbriar Inn 315 Wallace Ave. Midtown Coeur d’Alene 208.667.9660 315MartinisAndTapas.com #local #coeurdalene #businessspotlight

Whether it is the food, atmosphere, service or just for doing good business, MAX at Mirabeau in Spokane Valley has repeatedly stood as a symbol of excellence. Catering to diners since day one with its extraordinary breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert, 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. Looking for a spot to enjoy an informal lunch, drinks after a round of golf with friends or that once-a-year birthday or anniversary date night with the love of your life? MAX will cater to you. The entire staff strives for guest satisfaction, doing all in its power to offer up a memorable experience. MAX is known for its extensive offerings, with five menus featuring more than 100 menu items served 20 hours a day, all from scratch and created in-house. Everything is made from raw, fresh ingredients, allowing them to more easily accommodate guests’ dietary needs and preferences. MAX can tailor itself to any type of person who comes in the door. Executive Chef/Food and Beverage Director, Shawn Matlock, and Chef de Cuisine, Michael Durbin, are serving up eclectic cuisine at MAX. Both bring an overabundance of commitment to create only the best product to serve each and every guest while developing the team from within. To keep the menu bright, Shawn, Michael and the rest of the MAX culinary team are constantly exploring new flavors and experimenting with new dishes and ingredients while perfecting existing menu items. Each dish is plated so that it is visually appealing before the guest ever tastes it. From recipe conception to plate presentation, the staff and management are passionate about the product they are presenting to the customer. The food is complemented by the libations, which have blossomed over time and include fresh new cocktails with their own house-made syrups. Happy hour at MAX sets itself above the rest! Offered daily from 3 to 6 pm and again from 9pm to close in the lounge and outdoors during the warmer months, guests are sure to satisfy their cravings with a great food and drink menu. In addition to happy hour, there is a special each day of the week: MAXed Out Monday, Tap Beer Tuesday, Wine Wednesday (and Sunday), Ladies’ Night Thursday and Martini Friday. On Saturday and Sunday, don’t miss the chance to build your own Bloody Mary at the Inland Northwest’s Biggest Bloody Mary Bar from 9am to 2pm—also featuring mimosas galore! Every Friday and Saturday night, MAX offers live music featuring rockin’ blues from 9pm to close with no cover charge. And don’t forget to join them for their First Wednesday Wine Tastings that feature a different winery every month. Over the years, MAX has won the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, Spokane Living’s Spokane Valley Best Restaurant of the Year, The Washington Restaurant Association’s Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year and the multiple Epicurean Delight Awards for various dishes through the years. What are you waiting for? It’s time to take it to the MAX. MAX at Mirabeau Park Hotel Spokane Valley, Washington 1100 N. Sullivan Rd. 509.922.6252 MAXatMirabeau.com #local #spokanevalley #businessspotlight

A gathering place for locals and tourists alike, Pend d’Oreille Winery is the perfect place to enjoy fine wine and create special memories. The unique Downtown Sandpoint 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 24 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. If you are one who enjoys fine wine, be sure to join Pend d’Oreille Winery’s Wine Club. Membership is free and offers many benefits including discounts off the winemaker’s choice vintages. “Wine Club members receive discounts on bottle purchases, complimentary tastes in the tasting room and invitations to member-only winery sponsored events,” said Kylie Presta, who along with Jim Bopp owns Pend d’Oreille Winery. “Wine Club members may sign up for a two-, four- or six-bottle club of Pend d'Oreille wines. Wine Club releases occur four times a year, and it is no cost to join.” 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. In addition to the opportunity to taste a variety of incredible wine, the Tasting Room has small bites available including a charcuterie board, and they recently added pizza flatbreads to their menu offering customers even more choices. And for those who prefer, there is locally crafted beer available. Limited outside seating is also available on Cedar Street. 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. “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.” Pend d’Oreille Winery Sandpoint, Idaho 301 Cedar St. 208.265.8545 POWine.com #local #sandpoint #businessspotlight

Established in 1982 by husband and wife Mike and Ellena Conway, Latah Creek Wine Cellars in Spokane Valley, Washington, continues to bring affordable, award-winning wines to the Inland Northwest. Thirty-seven harvests and 36 years later, they, along with their winemaker daughter Natalie Barnes, continue that mission. At Latah Creek, they never compromise their standards while continuing to produce remarkable wines. For more than three decades, it has been important to the family to keep their bottle prices low, and they have stayed true to their objective. “We could very easily raise our prices $5 to $15 per wine, but we choose not to,” Natalie says. “We choose to keep our wines inexpensively priced so that everyone can enjoy award-winning wines every day—not just on special occasions.” In addition to Latah Creek’s more than 15 wines varying from red to white, dry to sweet, light to full-bodied and reserve reds, their gift shop is filled with gourmet foods and unique items hand selected by Ellena. From Nora Fleming Ceramic-ware that can be customized for any occasion or time of year and beautiful holiday décor to authentic Italian pastas and a variety of gluten-free foods and mixes, it’s the perfect place to shop for friends and family—and yourself! “We also have a cookbook featuring over 250 of my mom's recipes, each with a wine pairing suggestion,” says Natalie. “Each month, we select one wine to be our featured Wine of the Month, and we choose three recipes to pair with this wine, sharing the information to our customers via email.” Natalie attributes Latah Creek Wine Cellar’s long-standing success to her parents. “My mom is continually looking for unique items for the gift shop that would add to anyone's experience as well as new recipes, while my dad continues to strive to make great wine,” she says. “Together they started this winery, and together they have brought it here to our 37th harvest.” Natalie joined her father in winemaking in 2004, and today it is still just the two of them who handle the wines at Latah Creek. When it comes to what Natalie finds most rewarding about being in the winemaking business, she says, “I love to see a person's face light up when they try a wine and fall in love with it. I just want a person to find a wine that they love, not something I think they should love.” Over the course of the next few years, they are hoping to remodel and update their tasting room and parts of the winery to welcome their guests. And, as always, they will continue to make award-winning wines while looking for unique varietals to produce and get out to their loyal, wine-loving community. “I love being part of a longstanding family winery,” smiles Natalie. “I am deeply honored that I get to carry on my parents’ legacy and hope that one or both of my daughters would choose to continue in the legacy of making wines at Latah Creek.” Raise a glass to Mike, Ellena and Natalie and toast to another 36 years of award-winning winemaking. Latah Creek Wine Cellars Spokane Valley, Washington 13030 E. Indiana Ave. 509.926.0164 LatahCreek.com #local #businessspotlight #spokanevalley

A girl, a small Idaho town and potato vodka. That’s how the story begins. Fast forward to today, and Party Animal Vodka is taking Idaho by storm, one bottle at a time. Katherine Cullen is the woman behind Party Animal Vodka. Founded in 2017 and officially bottled in 2018, Katherine, along with fiancé and co-founder Joshua Hanson, launched the company in Idaho in April 2018 when bottles officially began hitting shelves. “I really wanted to drink a brand of vodka that had a story behind it that I could not only relate to but also stood for a just cause,” recalls Katherine. “I wanted a brand that related to me no matter if I was planning on staying in and having friends over or out at the bar taking shooters with all the other ‘party animals.’ Then it clicked. I began a quest to create a vodka that contained three simple factors: quality, philanthropy and a brand that relates to a live-in-the-moment lifestyle.” Today, more than ever, consumers care about the products they use and consume. Party Animal Vodka provides an extremely high-quality product at a reasonable price. “Our product also uses its name to relate to the consumer, as well as symbolize the philanthropy,” says Katherine. “The Party Animal brand name and culture is synonymous with giving back to animals.” Traditionally, vodka was made from potatoes, but today, most are made from corn, grain or wheat. Party Animal Vodka is distilled in Idaho from locally sourced famous Idaho russet potatoes. “We like to say we are ‘getting back to the roots,’” smiles Katherine. There are no added sugars, preservatives or flavors in their product, and it is low calorie and low carbohydrates. She adds, “Our vodka is distilled once; done right the first time.” By sourcing and producing their product in Idaho, Party Animal Vodka is supporting the local economy, from the local potato farmer to creating jobs at the distillery and in the sales force. “Idaho potatoes and our Idaho distillery are what make our vodka so great, so why outsource?” says Katherine. “Keeping it local keeps the quality high and the revenue and jobs local. And last but not least, a portion of every bottle sold in Idaho gives back to Idaho wildlife conservation and local animal shelters.” In addition, the distillery is eco-friendly and utilizes wind power. They also recycle waste water and use their by-product for livestock feed. When it comes to the success that Katherine and Joshua have found with Party Animal Vodka, they credit it to hard work, dedication and determination—and their customers. “Our market is flooded with various brands and options for consumers, however, being able to show people why our product is superior through sampling, communication and effective marketing has provided immense success.” Party Animal Vodka is starting to make an appearance in select restaurants throughout Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Hayden and Sandpoint including: Corner Bar, Capones Bar and Grill, The Moose, Rusty’s and Sandpoint’s historic 219 Lounge. If you are looking for a superior product Idaho grown, look no further than Party Animal Vodka. Party Animal Vodka Ketchum, Idaho 151 4th St. W. Unit 4833 PartyAnimalVodka.com #northidaho #local #businessspotlight

Over the past four decades, Spokane has welcomed, and said its goodbyes, to dozens, if not hundreds, of restaurants. But during that time, there has been one locally owned, long-standing restaurant group that has stood the test of time—Spokane’s Landmark Restaurant Group. The company behind the Onion Taphouse and Grills and Frank’s Diners has been catering to locals and visitors alike since 1978, and they’re stronger and more successful than ever. Founded by Larry Brown, the downtown Onion Tavern made its debut in 1975. Three years later, Larry got a large loan from US Bank and did a beautiful remodel of the space. “That is when the official Onion Bar & Grill everyone knows today was born,” says Ken Belisle, president and managing partner of Landmark Restaurants. In 2018, The Onion Taphouse & Grill’s 40th anniversary in business was marked, but the original 1975 Onion menu still hangs in the restaurant today as a reminder of its humble tavern roots. With the success of The Onion downtown, it was time to add to their restaurant family. Built in 1982, The North Side’s Onion Taphouse and Grill has been a north side hangout for large parties and family gatherings for 36 years. In 2015, the new Area 51 Taphouse in the lounge became an instant north-side favorite. Less than a decade later, it was time for a new venture! In 1991, Downtown Spokane was treated to its third Landmark Restaurant—Frank’s Diner. “A lost ground lease in Seattle was Spokane’s gain, and Frank’s Diner railcar was introduced to Downtown Spokane in the fall of 1991,” says Ken. “This original, beautiful 1906 railcar in which Franks’ Diner is housed was actually the private railcar for the president and is as beautiful today as when it was first built.” In January 2004, a second Frank’s Diner began its restoration journey. In 2005, after $1 million and thousands of man hours, the 1916 100-ton, 83-foot railcar from the coast was finally ready to make her debut and move to her new home in North Spokane. And the second Frank’s Diner opened in the summer of 2005 on Newport Highway. Forty years and four successful restaurants certainly seems like they have created a recipe to success. “We recognize the enormous obligation to keep finding ways to exceed our guests’ expectations,” says Ken. “We know that to exceed our guests’ expectations means we must exceed our crews’ expectations first. My No. 1 goal is to be Spokane’s employer of choice. Only then can we truly wow our guests.” He adds, “Our guests’ desire for locally sourced, scratch-made food and craft beverage, prepared fresh when they order by people who love what they are doing, is our passion. We won’t rest until we’ve exceeded our crewmembers’ and every guest’s expectation.” The teams of Frank’s Diner and The Onion Taphouse know your time is valuable. When you join them for a meal, they are truly dedicated to make your experience one you will never forget. Serving Spokane the best for more than 40 years, take a seat at The Onion or Frank’s Diner, where Ken and his crew bring passion and experience to the table. The Onion Taphouse & Grill TheOnion.biz North Side 7522 N. Division St. 509.482.6100 Downtown 302 W. Riverside Ave. 509.747.3852 Frank’s Diner FranksDiners.com North Side 10929 N. Newport Hwy 509.465.2464 Downtown 1516 W. Second Ave. 509.747.8798 #local #businessspotlight #downtownspokane #northsidespokane

Trends come and go in the way of home designs and exteriors, but in the West, the log home or cabin will never go out of style. You’ll find these beautiful structures slope side on area ski hills, overlooking our pristine lakes, and also tucked away on a peaceful plot of land outside city limits. For many, building a custom log home is a lifelong dream, and to be able to help design the home adds an even greater sense of pride in homeownership. Creativity and customization is something that the builders and design team at Caribou Creek Log and Timber in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, are happy to include in all their builds. In the 30 years since opening its doors, Caribou Creek has created hundreds of unique structures—everything from estates, multi-level log homes and cabins to timber-framed homes and eye-catching business buildings. People are astonished at their work from the outside, and the amazement continues once inside as well, often leading others to think about their own dream home. “Quality and value is the reason 75 percent of our business comes from customer referrals,” said David Byler, president and owner. David and his co-owners, son Darin who serves as general manager and son-in-law Ken Shrock, project manager, approach each job as if they were building their very own home. Unlike a traditional neighborhood developer where you choose from only a few floor plans and limited customization, Caribou Creek tailors each build to exactly what a customer wants. The company has previous designs and layouts in-house that are often a starting point for a build but also work with architects or even just scribbles on a napkin. No matter how the idea is laid out, the Caribou Creek team goes to work to make it happen. “Traditional craftsmanship and an old-fashioned work ethic turn exceptional designs into works of unsurpassed warmth and quality,” said David. Once a design is in place and the type of wood and materials are chosen, the real fun begins for everyone involved. Timber from sustainably managed forests is always utilized, and even the leftover cuts are used as firewood for local Bonners Ferry residents. The home is assembled at the facility so they can maximize quality control. Once complete, each piece is marked as the home is disassembled and shipped to its final destination. Crews then put the home back together like a giant puzzle and finish the final touches on-site. Those who are already in their dream homes but are looking at an update or adding to their home can also utilize the beauty of wood in many ways. Caribou Creek can create custom wood staircases, timber siding, entries and gates, place wood beams, and create a detached garage or outbuilding, just to name a few. The build is fascinating to watch, and the staff at Caribou Creek takes each customer through each step in the process. In the end they come away with exactly what they want. The timeless beauty of a log structure is an iconic symbol of Western living, and Caribou Creek is happy to continue to make those log home dreams a reality. Caribou Creek Log & Timber Bonners Ferry, Idaho 195 Sunrise Rd. 800.619.1156 CaribouCreek.com #northidaho #businessspotlight #local

Westwood Brewing in Rathdrum, Idaho, has been a destination place since they opened in 2017. They serve unique upscale pub fare paired with their own craft beers in a renovated historic building that was built in 1887. Offering arched windows, rustic brickwork and stunning mountain views, the relaxed and casual family friendly restaurant is filled with living history, thanks to owners and brothers Spencer and Shaun Howell and their wives Danielle and Jenny, who took great pride in restoring the building while keeping its history alive. While creating a relaxed and historic atmosphere to their brewpub, quality has always been at the forefront of each meal served. Not only are all meats smoked fresh in-house, but steaks and Alaskan sockeye salmon are cut fresh daily. The prime rib is certified Angus and the burgers are half-pound prime beef. From the hand-dipped haddock to scratch-made dressings, sauces and desserts, the quality is sure to satisfy. The food is complemented by 16 rotating drafts that include multiple options brewed in-house as well as other craft beers from around the Pacific Northwest. In addition to the enjoyable atmosphere, great food and drink, they offer events nearly every day of the week. If you’re looking to have a great time while enjoying some delicious food and cold brews, Westwood has you covered. Sports fans can enjoy the big game on 12 screens; guests can enjoy happy hour with deals on cold drinks and crowd-pleasing appetizers. Taco Tuesday offers $3 pub tacos and $3 margaritas all day! Each week, Wednesday Trivia starts at 7pm and Friday Karaoke starts at 9pm. Saturdays feature their prime rib dinner starting at 4pm, with live music filling the restaurant at 7pm. In addition, each month they feature new food and cocktail specials, so make sure to check them out. Its living history, signature dishes, craft beer and atmosphere have fast made Westwood Brewing Company a local favorite. If you haven’t had the chance to stop in, now’s the time. What are you waiting for? Westwood Brewing Co. Rathdrum 8162 W. Main St. 208.712.3423 WestwoodBrewing.com #businessspotlight #local #rathdrum

Summer weekends tend to fill up quickly. Between vacations and weddings, outdoor projects and keeping the kids occupied, it always seems to go by too fast. You want to take that backcountry hike but aren’t quite sure you can commit an entire weekend to the adventure. It’d be fun to bring the kids along, but are they ready for a long weekend deep in the woods? There is an outdoor adventure for just about every age and skill level in our area, and some of the most obvious places to start are sometimes overlooked. Skiers and riders are familiar with the incredible mountain slopes we have, all within a short drive of each other. What you might not know is that many of these ski hills offer some of the best and most easily accessible outdoor recreation opportunities around, not just in winter but during the warm summer months as well. As you ponder ways to get out and enjoy the outdoors this summer, take a peek at what’s available at your local ski hills. Schweitzer Mountain Resort Schweitzer Mountain continues to bustle all summer long as if the snow never left. The on-property hotel rooms and condos are all available to rent, and the retail and restaurants are open for shoppers and diners alike. With 40 miles of mixed-use trails, the summer trail map is nearly as extensive as winter. There are hike-only trails, hike and bike trails, and downhill biking-only trails. The resort’s trail system also connects with those maintained by the Selkirk Recreation District. The Great Escape Chairlift transports guests to the peak to go out and explore or just enjoy a tasty lunch or beverage at the Sky House. Back in the village, kids will find an array of fun activities and an ‘Ultimate Fun Pass’ includes unlimited chairlift rides, zip line, climbing wall and trampoline jumper, as well as a bag of jewels for the sluice box. Lookout Pass The drive up to Lookout allows you to straddle two states and two time zones in the same trip. While the lifts don’t operate in the summer, Lookout Pass is home base for one of the most scenic bike rides you’ll ever be on. Ride the Hiawatha runs from the end of May through mid to late September. The trail is an old Milwaukee railroad grade that’s now paved and packed gravel, which creates a silky smooth ride down the mountain side. The 15-mile ride from East Portal to Pearson is almost all downhill or flat ground, perfect for young riders and those who like to keep the pace slow. As you cruise down the trail you’ll cross over several old railroad tresses and through multiple tunnels—including the 1.66-mile long St. Paul Pass Tunnel. Trail passes are available at the Lodge as well as bike rentals. Here you can also arrange shuttle service depending on where you would like to begin and end your ride. Silver Mountain While the water park alone might be enough to draw summer visitors to Silver Mountain in Kellogg, you’d be missing out if you didn’t head up the mountain as well. The Gondola operates all summer long, offering stunning views of the Silver Valley on your way up the mountain. A full scale Mountain Bike park awaits avid riders. You can watch some of the fastest downhill riders around during the Northwest Cup, June 22 through 24. The nine-hole Galena Ridge Golf Course is uniquely situated mountainside and includes dramatic elevation changes. You are likely to see birds and deer, and possibly elk and moose, during your round. Silver Mountain also hosts an annual Brewfest at the top of the mountain each August. Regional breweries and cideries stake their claim on top of the mountain, and you’re able to enjoy the spectacular views with a few brews and live music as well. Where else can you mountain bike, golf, and surf and splash all in the same day? Mt. Spokane Within the last few years, Mt. Spokane has added a new lift and terrain, as well as great expanded seating in its lodges. If you’re looking for a unique wedding venue, you’ve definitely found it. The lodges can also be rented out for other special occasions throughout the summer. The adjacent Mt. Spokane State Park offers all kinds of summer recreation. There are nearly 14,000 acres to explore, all of which are open to hikers. You’ll find abundant wildlife and photo opportunities, and if you reach the summit on a clear day, you can view Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, Steptoe Butte to the south, and the foothills of Glacier National Park and the Cabinet Mountains in Montana. Prefer not to hike? The summit road is drivable and usually opens up in mid-June. The road takes you all the way to the top of the mountain where you can picnic at the Vista House, which is also open all summer. You can camp at Bald Knob campground or, if you’re lucky, score a reservation to stay the night inside the old Quartz Mountain Fire Lookout. 49° North At 49° North, summer is kind of a ‘choose your own adventure.’ While the lifts do not operate, everyone is welcome to explore the entirety of the mountain. Mountain bikers utilize the service roads that cut through the west, central and east basins in order to access all kinds of varying terrain. Those not on bikes can hike their favorite trails or create their own. Most of the snow is melted off by early July, but you will still find some stashes in the heavily shaded areas. There’s nothing quite like a pile of snow to jump into during a sweaty hike; nature’s perfect refresher. As you hike, keep an eye out on Chewelah Peak for the Northwest’s favorite berry. Best times for picking huckleberries are in the dog days of summer, usually most of July and into early August. Those who simply cannot put the skis away can also hike and ride the remaining snow even after the April closing. Packed snow can sometimes last into June, allowing you to take in some summer skiing. #featurestory #local

A decade ago, before Airbnb existed, Wendy Hilliard and her family avoided hotels and instead vacationed the way many do now: They rented a house. It wasn’t as easy to do so as it is now, but they prioritized the advantages of having their own shared spaces. “I think people were looking for it because I know our family vacationed that way years and years ago. That’s why we got into the business,” said Hilliard. “But I don’t think access was as easy.” Hilliard and her husband are now on the other side of the industry—they own and operate DayStar Lodge on North Idaho’s Twin Lakes—and they are part of a shift in the way people stay when they travel. Hotels aren’t the only option anymore, and that’s most certainly true in the Inland Northwest. Vacation rental companies are growing to meet demand; more families with second homes are renting them out—and some are even acquiring second homes for the sole purpose of doing so. And now that it is so easy to find vacation rentals just about anywhere people vacation, all with a quick search of the Internet, the business is booming. In a March press release, Airbnb boasted that it has more than 6 million listings around the world, which it claims is more than the number of hotel rooms the six largest hotels have all together “The biggest benefit is really the cost for what you end up getting,” said Steve Russo, owner of Go Sandpoint Vacation Rentals, which manages a dozen properties in the area. “A hotel typically is a room, with a kitchenette if you’re lucky. So when you can rent a house and get a couple families in there, you’re getting a ton of space. It makes the whole experience so much better.” That includes in-house laundry, a well-appointed kitchen, large shared spaces along with private bedrooms, and, often in North Idaho, lake access; all for a comparable rate when split among a large enough group. With the rise has also come a professionalization of the industry, and the standards of quality have risen, Hilliard said. “Twenty, 30 years ago, a lot of these places were people’s family homes, filled with personal things, their clothes in the closets, castoffs from Goodwill in the kitchen,” Hilliard said. “Now it’s a lot more professional. Kitchens are better outfitted, no family pictures on the walls, so people can come in and feel this is their space. This is their home for a week. And you just don’t get that in a hotel. And you really didn’t get that 20 years ago, either.” Cheryl and Robert Lantz entered the industry in 2012 when they noticed that many vacation rentals and second homes weren’t being monetized to their full potential. Many of their eventual clients had a second home they couldn’t sell for what they owed on it, Cheryl said. But by renting it out, they could make it profitable. Now their company, Vacation Rental Authority, manages 60 vacation homes in North Idaho. “Most of the inventory we brought on was creating new vacation rentals out of homes that were just sitting there,” Cheryl said. “The homes are taken better care of than long-term leased homes. It’s really good for the property values for the homes around them.” Local companies like these have a mixed relationship with the larger listing sites, like Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com and FlipKey, which list many local company’s properties. Those sites are great for marketing, they said, but not so much for direct service when, for example, the heat stops working or the dishwasher leaks. And that is becoming even more apparent, Cheryl said, now that some of those sites use outside call centers to handle client inquiries. They often will not list the local management company’s contact information, and that has led to some of the Lantzs’ clients receiving misinformation. All agreed that, when possible, it is best to book directly through the local management company. In some cases, it is less expensive, too, they said. “When someone rents from someone like me, they get a much more individualized experience,” said Hilliard, who will soon be removing her property from the large listing sites. “When your fridge goes out, VRBO’s going to be no help. I’m going to be the one to call and get a repairman out. … A good owner is going to take care of their guests. It makes me feel really good to help someone have a good vacation, and I think most owners are like that.” There are benefits for renting out a home using a local company as well, Russo said. Something he sees often now is that people want a vacation home, but they only expect to use it a few weeks each year. That’s where management companies can help clients by renting out the house the rest of the year. “Having people at the house will alleviate problems,” Russo said. “A lot of homes get in trouble when they sit there. Having some activity in the house offsets that.” Still, local experts admitted that it often requires more effort and research to find and then vet vacation rental companies in places families are, often by the very nature of a vacation, unfamiliar with. Google comes in handy, they said. “Reviews are really important. Try to find Google reviews because they can’t be manipulated,” said Russo, who added that Airbnb, for example, doesn’t have to publish all reviews that are submitted. “Google is the No. 1 source.” If you do book through a large listing service, he suggested people try to get in touch with the local agency that manages the property. “Call and talk to the people who actually have the house and ask all the questions you have,” he said. Hotels appear to be trying to keep up, as many major chains are expanding their extended stay brands; StayBridge Suites is expected to open a new location in Coeur d’Alene this summer, for example. Its website emphasizes its full-sized kitchens and its large shared spaces. But for many, the familiar comforts of a house, where they can still do a bit of work if they need to (thanks to the nearly ubiquitous Wi-Fi at vacation rentals) with a beautiful view and access to the outdoors, all with their family and friends around them, is too attractive to pass up—especially if the cost is comparable. “People are looking for a space, kind of a home away from home,” Hilliard said, “More personal than a hotel, where most people like to cook their own meals and feel like they have a private space on a lake.” #local #featurestory #homeandgarden

Whether you are looking for a sports bar, a cocktail lounge, a place for a cold beer, a glass of unique wine, somewhere to enjoy live entertainment or to just chill out with friends, The 219 Lounge on First Avenue in Sandpoint has it all. The 219 has undergone extensive restoration over the last three years and reveals a unique part of Sandpoint’s history. Not only that, it is now smoke free and was recently named the Best Small-Town Bar in Idaho. “The character of the bar has changed multiple times over its 84-year history,” says Mel Dick, who along with his wife Claudia own the “Niner,” as it has come to be known over the years. “In the early 1950s it was a Las Vegas-style lounge complete with one-arm bandit gaming machines.” The original bar was located on Pine Street and was moved to its current location in 1934 and was called the Diamond, with the original diamond logo still visible on the Lounge’s façade. But a fire destroyed the building, and it was rebuilt in late 1934 and early 1935 with the front and back exterior walls constructed in solid concrete with an art-deco style. The beams in the newly exposed ceiling show signs of the fire from over 80 years ago. One of the treasures discovered in the restoration was a 40-foot mural painted by “Cowboy Joe” in 1935 that was hidden under multiple walls. It has since been restored by local artist Diana Schuppel. Other smaller murals, painted by Gene Hayes in 1967, were also uncovered. Known as one of the best night-time entertainment spots in North Idaho, The 219 has become a favorite for live entertainment, hosting live music during Wind Down Wednesdays and every Friday and Saturday year-round. The outdoor patio comes alive with bands from around the region every Thursday through Saturday on summer evenings. Several times a year, nationally known comedians perform in the intimate "comedy club" atmosphere in the main bar with its exposed original brick and large ceiling beams. “We love local musicians and also have bands from around the Pacific Northwest,” says Mel. “It’s everything from rock ‘n’ roll, Americana, the blues and more.” Enjoy great food during the summer from Shilla (Korean BBQ with Seoul), a new Korean BBQ fusion food truck operated by Chef Jeffrey Coleman, that will be at The 219 on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Whether you are a local looking for a fun and smoke-free place to meet up with friends or a visitor coming to check out Sandpoint for the first time, stop by The 219 Lounge. Be sure and ask for Mel; if he’s around he would love to show you the historic nature of this Sandpoint icon. The 219 Lounge Sandpoint 219 N. First Ave. 208.263.5673 219.bar #local #sandpoint #businessspotlight

When you walk into Forty-One South, you instantly feel the warm and friendly atmosphere. The restaurant sits on the shore of Lake Pend Oreille and offers incredible views, delicious American cuisine and a true North Idaho feel with its rustic beamed ceilings and real wood-burning fireplace. In the summer, you can enjoy outside dining from their spacious patio area, and no matter what time of year, there is no better place from which to take in the incredible sunsets over the mountains and water. While all this may lead one to think that an evening at Forty-One South is only for that romantic night out or certain special occasions, the truth is that it is a favorite of many families as well. With a children’s menu that will appeal to the younger members of the family, Forty-One South’s innovative cuisine offers both unique and traditional food choices including their popular Stone Harbor crab bisque, warm goat cheese appetizer, smoked filet mignon, wild sockeye salmon, as well as pasta, just to name a few. And for those who love to enjoy some comfort food on occasion, you cannot pass up the “Lakeshore” burger or the buffalo meatloaf. Their exquisite food preparation coupled with the ambiance of Forty-One South makes it an experience that has both locals and tourists returning again and again. They have a full bar as well as a bar menu for those wanting to stop in for a cocktail and appetizer or light meal. With a menu that changes with the seasons, Forty-One South is not only the perfect place to enjoy a memorable night out, but they also host many special events throughout the year. Their monthly wine dinners throughout the winter season are especially popular. Guests enjoy a five-course dinner accompanied by a hearty wine to complement each course. Featuring a different winery every month, the wine dinners are always a sellout, so reservations are required. If you are looking to host a celebration, Forty-One South also provides in-house and off-site catering for small and large groups including weddings, birthdays, business meetings and holiday parties. They also have a private dining room available. Cassandra Cayson has owned Forty-One South for nearly a decade and has earned a reputation for providing not only excellent food and spirits but also exceptional service as well. With the success of Forty-One South, it was no surprise when Cassandra opened a second restaurant in 2012, Shoga Sushi Bar, right next door to Forty-One South. Offering customers an alternative option, the menu at Shoga offers a variety of nigiri, sashimi and specialty rolls as well as many Asian-inspired entrees such as the chicken teriyaki or beef and broccoli. Cassandra and her staff pride themselves on building relationships with the locals and tourists alike. The chefs use only the freshest ingredients and source them from as many local sustainable farms as possible. Both restaurants focus on accommodating each guest’s tastes and preferences above all. Hours do vary by season, so it is recommended to call ahead. The Lodge at Sandpoint Sagle - 41 Lakeshore Dr. Forty-One South 208.265.2000 41SouthSandpoint.com Shoga Sushi Bar 208.265.2001 ShogaSushi.com #local #sandpoint #businessspotlight

When Zach and Hannah Vollmer were presented with the opportunity to purchase the Alpine Shop in Sandpoint, they knew they could not pass it up. For the previous two years, Zach had worked as general manager for both Alpine Shop locations—one in Downtown Sandpoint and the other in Schweitzer Village—and already knew the business thoroughly. And besides, working side by side was something the couple had long talked about. “We have always wanted to work together and own our own business,” says Hannah. “Owning and operating the Alpine Shop not only allows us to do this but also utilizes our strengths. Above all it allows us to be a part of the Sandpoint community, which we love.” The Alpine Shop has been a staple in Sandpoint for more than 50 years. Both Zach and Hannah are grateful to previous owners for building such a great foundation upon which they can continue to expand to serve locals and tourists alike. Since purchasing the business in early summer of 2018, Zach and Hannah already have regular customers from Sandpoint and beyond, who they now call friends. With a mission to provide superior customer service, Zach and Hannah look forward to doing all they can to maximize their customers’ experience when it comes to both shopping and embarking on adventure. The couple has more than 20 years combined experience as sales reps, buyers and managers for various outdoor industry companies and also have a passion for outdoor adventure themselves. “Our professional experience and participation in outdoor recreation makes us a great resource for our customers,” says Zach. When you walk into both of the Alpine Shop locations, you will experience a welcoming atmosphere with staff that is eager to assist you with whatever you need. As a year-round outdoor adventure store, the Alpine Shop provides all you need to experience summer adventures including paddleboards, kayaks, water skis, wake surfers, tubes and more. “We are proud to carry premier watersports brands, including BOTE paddleboards, Hobie kayaks, wakeboards and wakesurfers from Liquid Force, Ronix and Hyperlite. We also have a great selection of water skis from Radar, HO and, new for us this year, Connelly,” says Zach. They also have an incredible assortment of water toys and tow-ables for kids and adults of all ages! Any way you want to enjoy beautiful Lake Pend Oreille, they have a knowledgeable staff and the equipment to outfit you for your adventure. The shop also has a great selection of lifestyle apparel and accessory brands to keep you looking and feeling good! Everything from technical outdoor apparel from The North Face and Arc’teryx, to cute summer dresses and bathing suits from Carve Designs, Billabong and O’Neill. Need a new pair of summer shades? Check out their assortment of Oakley and Smith sunglasses. They also carry fun accessories such as Yeti coolers and wine glasses and a lot of logo wear with which to remember your summer adventure! Stop by and visit and see all the Alpine Shop has to offer. I promise you won’t leave empty handed! The Alpine Shop AlpineShopSandpoint.com Sandpoint 213 Church St. 208.263.5157 Schweitzer Village at Schweitzer Mountain Resort 10,000 Schweitzer Mountain Dr. 208.255.1660 Downtown Hours: Monday - Saturday, 9am - 5pm Sunday, 10am - 4pm Schweitzer Hours: Open one hour before Schweitzer and closed one hour after the mountain closes. Open in the summer during occasional festivals. #local #sandpoint #businessspotlight

It’s the place where you build your life, your family and create lifelong memories. Your home is the foundation of all that happens in your life, and it’s also 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 actually find enjoyable. The Davies Real Estate Team includes licensed agent and team leads Dr. Tom and Lisa Davies; agents Keanon Naumann, Shari Keelin and Parker Auvil; and Transaction Coordinator Amy Lightbody, who is also a licensed agent. Their success is rooted in their desire to provide customer service that far exceeds their clients’ expectations, with a mission to provide 7-Star Service. Their goal is to help buyers find the perfect home at the perfect price and sellers sell their homes for top dollar in the shortest amount of time. The team’s proactive and innovative approach to marketing consistently delivers on these goals. You’ll find The Davies Real Estate Team to be: REliable - You can rely on their 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 making you money and saving you time. REsponsive - The Davies Team’s customer-driven business history means they understand the value of quick response when you contact them. It can make the difference between getting your dream home—or not; selling your current property—or not. They know it matters. You can count on fast, personalized service every time, all the time. RElationship Oriented - In real estate, properties are the commodity, but it’s the relationships that drive the Davies’ business vision. They listen; really listen to your needs and desires. They’ve been there, 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 say they would use their agent again. Only 24 percent do. Why? Follow through. The Davies Real Estate Team are Zillow Premier Agents and have buyers from all over the country 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 in Spokane and arranging local accommodations. Several of their 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. Read what one of their clients recently stated in a Zillow review: "I contacted Lisa Davies after seeing a compelling full-service advertisement. We wanted a second pricing opinion on a home I was building. I was pleasantly surprised with her quick response, knowledgeable valuations and interior design suggestions. Their team sold my property prior to it being listed on the MLS. WOW. Knowledgeable, dedicated, refreshing, unique and full service. We have found our BFF realtor." - Local Builder REsources - As a residential real estate team fully supported by NextHome Living the Northwest, The Davies Real Estate Team has the most advanced tech support and marketing resources available to serve your needs. They handle the details and take the pressure off so you can make a clear and concise decision. It’s not just the customized strategic plan that sets them apart. They focus on success through exceptional service based on your needs to surprise and delight you at every stage of the process. Today’s homebuyers begin their search for properties and information on the Internet. The Davies Real Estate Team’s listings go into three Multiple Listing Services—Selkirk, Coeur d’Alene and Spokane. This gives your home unparalleled exposure to all key homebuyer-searched websites. The top two ways to sell or buy a home are Internet 86 percent and agent 79 percent. At NextHome, the focus is to maximize your property’s exposure to the fastest growing segment—mobile. Strategic marketing equals results marketing. NextHome’s expertise was recognized in a recent article in Forbes Magazine where they interviewed Chief Strategy Officer Keith Ronson, who addressed that it is critical to understand where the market is trending so realtors can better position both buyers and sellers when it comes to negotiation. REsults - “How soon can you sell my house and for how much?” “How many homes will we need to see before we find one with our ‘must-haves’ and within our budget?” If you are looking for answers to these questions, talk to The Davies Real Estate Team about their unique approach to get the results you want. Their mission is to display your home with the ultimate professional photography, staging and drone footage to sell your home. For The Davies Real Estate Team, it’s all about providing expertise, exceptional personalized service and building relationships. Be sure to stop by and see them on the corner of Superior Street and First Street as you enter Sandpoint. Unlock your NEXT adventure! The Davies Real Estate Team Next Home Living the Northwest Sandpoint, Idaho 101 W. Superior St. 208.920.9062 IdahoPanhandleRealty@gmail.com IdahoPanhandleRealty.com #local #sandpoint #businessspotlight

The sun is shining and warmth fills the air. There is nothing quite like relaxing on the patio after a long day, opening that bottle of wine that has been calling your name and pouring a glass. Whether it's gathering with friends for the weekday happy hour or enjoying the weekend’s beautiful sunny afternoon, dining and imbibing with good company is a good time to share a nice bottle. Wine. No matter what the season, or the occasion, every day is worthy of a good glass of wine. Bold reds, crisp whites, rosés and bubbles … summertime is just as good as any time of year to enjoy any and all. Though we’ve all heard that certain wines pair best with particular flavor profiles, well, you can throw that out the window. There is no right or wrong when it comes to wine and your food-pairing selection. Though some may say a white wine will go best with fish, if you prefer a cabernet sauvignon or pinot noir, know that your personal palate pairing will be the perfect one! “I tend to think of white and rosé wines during the summer because of their light, fresh and fruity characteristics,” says Natalie Barnes, winemaker at Latah Creek Wine Cellars in Spokane Valley. “One reason why I love rosés is because you get all of the berry flavors from the red grape variety but in a light, fresh, white-styled wine, making it absolutely delightful to enjoy on a warm, sunny day.” When selecting which wine will pair well, several things must be taken into consideration including the heartiness of the food and the dominant flavors. Both reds and whites can be light, medium or full bodied. If cooking up lighter foods, such as fish, chicken and vegetables, a lighter wine is the better choice, as you don’t want the wine to overpower the flavors of the food. Take note: For those foods such as barbecued chicken or marinated shrimp, the flavors of the ingredients and seasonings will dominate the dish. And for foods with a stronger flavor profile, such as steaks, burgers and sausage, a more robust wine is the best pairing in order to complement the flavors and without getting lost. Meat, no matter how it’s seasoned, will be the prominent flavor. Red wines typically pair well with barbecued steak, but as Natalie suggests, you should be sure to chill your red in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to get it down to cellar temperature, which is between 55 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit.“I think that makes the pairing, especially for summer, perfect!” she says. Natalie also suggests a nice sangria. Though you can purchase premade sangria, these tend to be overly sweet. Instead, opt for making your own. She recommends using one bottle of red wine (of your choice) and one can frozen concentrate pink lemonade. Prepare the lemonade as instructed on the can, add in wine, and then add sliced citrus fruits for a beautiful presentation. You can also add frozen grapes, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries and/or strawberries to the pitcher with the sangria when serving (still frozen). “This will keep the Sangria chilled without watering it down,” says Natalie. “Then, at the end of the night, take the wine-soaked berries, scoop them out onto pound cake, add a dollop of whipped cream, and you have the best shortcake ever!” It is important to stay hydrated when imbibing in the warm days of summer, especially when day drinking, so be sure to drink one non-alcoholic beverage for every glass of wine. Water of course is best, and Natalie suggests making these drinks “fun” by adding frozen berries, cucumber and basil, or lemon and oregano. “And try adding sparkling water for additional texture in your mouth!” Good food, great wine and summertime. There’s no going wrong. Enjoy! Four Wine Events: June 15, 2019 The Pour - A Wine Event Held on the beautiful grounds of Arbor Crest Winery in Spokane, Washington, The Pour is a spectacular evening with gourmet wine dinner and auction featuring some of the region’s finest vintages. The event includes a pre-dinner grand tasting as well as a selection of wines that are perfectly paired with four delectable courses. The wine will begin flowing at 5:30pm. Funds will be raised for Providence Health Care Foundation, with proceeds benefiting the B.E.S.T. child psychiatry program at Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital and the Providence Neuroscience Institute. For more information, call 509.474.4594 or email melanie.miller@providence.org. ThePour.info or Arbor Crest Winery Spokane, Washington 4705 N. Fruit Hill Rd. July 11 - 13 Crave! Food & Drink Celebration Discover the region's best tastemakers coming to Crave! Northwest. Sample and interact with a huge assortment of the Inland Northwest’s best wineries, breweries, ciders, distilleries, artisans, restaurants and caterers during this three-day event held at CenterPlace at Mirabeau Point Park in Spokane Valley. There will be more than a dozen wineries on-site throughout the weekend, including local wineries Arbor Crest Wine Cellars, Castaway Cellars, Maryhill Winery and Robert Karl Cellars. For more information, including event schedule and to purchase tickets, visit their website. CraveNW.com CenterPlace at Mirabeau Point Park 2426 N. Discovery Place Spokane Valley, Washington July 21, 2019 Vintage Spokane Vintage Spokane: A Wine and Food Affair, highlights the award-winning and up-and-coming wineries throughout the Northwest, each offering samples of their amazing wine. Join them at The Davenport Grand Hotel and sip wines from more than 50 of the region’s most celebrated wineries. Vintage Spokane is one of the area’s largest summer wine and food events. VIP ticket holders have access to the event an hour early, from 2 to 6pm, and general admission tickets grant you access to the event from 3 to 6pm. There are a limited number of tickets available to attend this event—just 150 tickets—so purchase your ticket today. VintageSpokane.com Davenport Grand Hotel Ballroom Spokane, Washington 333 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. July 21 & 22 Schweitzer Mountain Northwest WineFest Join Schweitzer in Sandpoint, Idaho, at their fifth annual Northwest WineFest! Purchase your souvenir wine glass with tasting tickets and get tasting at “Wine Valley.” The two-day festival is held on the Schweitzer Village Lawn and features multiple bands playing throughout the weekend paired with more than a dozen regional wineries offering dozens of wines, a craft beer tent, barbecue, arts and crafts vendors and activities for the entire family. Wine tastings take place Saturday, 11am to 6pm and Sunday, 11am to 5pm. To find out more, call 208.263.9555. Schweitzer.com Schweitzer Mountain Resort Sandpoint, Idaho 10,000 Schweitzer Mountain Rd. September 1 4 Pend d’Oreille Winery Harvest Party Celebrate the harvest during this fall tradition at Pend d’Oreille Winery in Sandpoint. Owners and winemakers Jim Bopp and Kylie Presta continue to bring the community together through this annual family friendly tradition the second Saturday of September. Gather with family and friends 1 to 5pm for an afternoon of grape stomping fun, live music, prizes, great food and spectacular wine specials. Help them celebrate this year's harvest and the start of their favorite time of year … crush! Even better, this event is free for all to attend! For more information, call the winery at 208.265.8545. POWine.com Pend d’Oreille Winery Sandpoint, Idaho 301 Cedar St. #foodandbeverage #local #featurestory