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Syringa Japanese Café and Sushi Bar has been satisfying locals since 2007, and since day one, owners Viljo and Autumn Basso have been serving guests the best sushi and modern Japanese cuisine North Idaho has to offer! High-quality, fresh ingredients and wonderful flavors are used in each dish they serve. With a flare for originality and excellence, this quaint little restaurant has set itself apart from the rest. “We feel so blessed to be a part of this amazing community,” says Autumn. “We are fortunate to have a crew that is passionate about great service and providing our customer with a quality product.” In January of this year, Syringa moved locations to make its new home in a bigger venue just up the street from their former location (in the former Bistro On Spruce location). Even with the change, Autumn says they are still the same local neighborhood restaurant with the same friendly faces. The new location offers guests ample parking, has more seating and a private banquet room. They will continue to host beer and winemaker dinners (at both Syringa and The Bluebird), and customers can keep up with upcoming events on their Facebook and Instagram page. 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 grow. In their endeavor, Viljo and Autumn have delivered a casual neighborhood bistro-style restaurant offering a cozy rustic interior, with reclaimed warm rustic wood and metal, and vintage photographs decorating the walls. 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. 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. And guests continue to eat it up. When it comes to what makes both Syringa and The Bluebird distinct, 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.” Whether you take a seat at Syringa or The Bluebird, Viljo, Autumn and their staff are ready to serve you and help create a memorable—and delicious—dining experience. 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 #local #coeurdalene #businessspotlight

With the hustle and bustle of life, it is important not to forget to slow down and take time to appreciate those around us. Enjoy your family and friends by gathering for a meal, spending uninterrupted time conversing and connecting. This is the humble—yet essential—foundation that The Culinary Stone was built on: getting people back to the table. In 2014, Brad and Sandra Gunn partnered with Sandy Volkar and introduced their culinary lifestyle marketplace to the Coeur d’Alene community. Here they invite you to come to the table, inspire you to cook and share a meal with those most important to you. “Eating together, and eating well, should be a daily activity—not just for special occasions,” says Sandra. The largest kitchen supply store in the area, discover specialty foods, cheese and Italian meats, and wines from around the region—and world—in the 5,500-square-foot space. Explore new flavor combinations at the Spice Bar or be introduced to nouveau Coeur d’Alene Olive Oil Co. olive oils. Stop by their neighborhood boutique deli for artisan deli meats and cheeses, and homemade sausages, and don’t forget about their café featuring artisan breads, European pastries and cakes. Stop by the deli any time of day, take a seat and enjoy great food. Try their delicious gourmet sandwiches, salads and homemade soups—all made to order! In addition, The Culinary Stone has everything you need to outfit your kitchen with the greatest in unique and handy kitchen gadgets, cutlery and dinnerware, pots and pans and cookbooks, perfect for the home chef and entertaining company. Each week, area chefs invite you to pull up a seat and learn to create new delicious meals that you can share with others, all while engaging with new friends. They also hold weekly wine tastings, so you can explore new wines to pair with your meals at home. Enjoy an experience you won’t find anywhere else … at The Culinary Stone. The Culinary Stone Coeur d’Alene at Riverstone 2129 Main St. 208.277.4116 CulinaryStone.com #local #coeurdalene #businessspotlight

Whether you are single, part of a couple or have a family, there might come a time when your home no longer meets your needs. You might have a couple of options, including renovating your home to add the features or space that you desire or place it for sale and look for a different home that works better for you. Before you decide to pursue either path, there are several factors to consider. Critically thinking about your decision can help you to make the right choice for you. What you think about your neighborhood Your first consideration should be the location of your home and your neighborhood. If you love your neighborhood and have an emotional connection to your home, it might make sense for you to think about renovating your home instead of calling it quits and moving on. Renovating your home in a neighborhood and area that you love might be preferable to moving to a more desirable home in a less-prime location. If you have children, you will want to consider whether they will have to change schools if you sell your home. Your ability to retire in your home with renovations is also important. If you are growing older, ask yourself whether you can make modifications that can allow you to age in place or if you might be better off purchasing a new home that will fit your needs better. The length of time that you have lived in your home Think about how long you have lived in your home. When you purchase a house, it takes around three to five years before you will break even. This consideration includes your moving expenses, realtor commissions and other expenses that are associated with buying a home. If you haven't lived in your home for very long, it might be wise to wait before you list it. Your ability to create a realistic budget plan for renovations to home The ability to create a realistic budget plan for renovations to your home is crucial. You need to figure out exactly what improvements you want for your dream house and determine the total costs. Accurate budgeting of the cost of remodel jobs is vital if you think that you might want to renovate your home instead of listing it. This includes determining the materials that you want to use in advance and getting multiple quotes and consultations with designers and contractors about what you would like to accomplish. Some homeowners do not really know what they want. If you change your mind and decide to go with different materials or designs in the middle of the renovation project, the cost of remodel may be substantially higher than you had planned. Consultations with designers and contractors to weigh the costs can help you to determine whether to proceed with a renovation or put your home up for sale. Whether the improvements will truly turn your house into your dream home Another of the factors to consider is whether the improvements that you envision will truly turn your house into your dream home. In some cases, people complete renovations to their existing homes only to grow tired of them in a few years. If you believe that the renovations that you think that you will make will actually make your dreams a reality, renovating may be a good idea. If you think that you will outgrow them, however, you might want to sell your home instead. The value of your home The value of your home and what you might get by selling it for is an important consideration. A consultation with realtors in your area can help you to figure out what your home is worth for the real estate market in your community. Think about the equity that you have built in your home and figure out how much you might have to pay to purchase a home that has the space and features that you want. A consultation with realtors can help you to determine whether it is a good idea to list your home or if you should instead renovate it. Do you need more space? One of the main reasons that homeowners decide to list their homes is that they need more space. Your family might have outgrown the space that you have. However, you might be able to use your existing space to add more rooms. An architect or designer might be able to suggest a smarter layout so that you can add the additional rooms that you need to accommodate your family. Another option might be to add an addition for more space. Compare the costs of these types of major renovations against your budget and the costs that you might pay to purchase a new home and to move. Will your renovations be an over-improvement? It is important for you to think about whether the renovations that you want would over-improve your home. Compare the renovations that you anticipate making with the other homes on your block. Think about whether you might want to sell it in the future. A home that is over-improved in comparison to other homes in its neighborhood will not sell for as much money as similar homes in different neighborhoods. You should also think about the types of renovations that provide the highest returns on investment. For example, bathroom remodels, kitchen remodels and landscaping might return 80 or above on your investment. Other types of renovations will not allow you to recoup as much of your investment in a future sale. The reality of renovations Think about the reality of renovations. When your home is being renovated, you may be unable to use certain areas of your home. For some types of major renovations, you might have to spend some time away from your home for a few months while the work is completed. Think about how long the renovations will take and whether you will be able to handle the inconvenience. The decision about whether to renovate your existing home or to sell it in search of your dream house is an important one. Think carefully and critically about all of the factors so that you can make the right decision for you and your loved ones. #local #featurestory

The longer days in the Inland Northwest provide plenty of daylight to get out and enjoy the many affordances of the region. Much of that includes getting out into nature: hiking, biking, camping and boating, to name a few. But this summer also provides a full slate of arts and entertainment for locals and visitors to enjoy, from some of the season’s staples—Art on the Green in Coeur d’Alene and the Festival at Sandpoint—to any of the musical acts that come through the numerous venues in the region. Spokane is filled with concert halls and smaller theaters and clubs with a series of local and national acts, while wineries and breweries also play host to bands and orchestras, meaning that just about every night all summer there are plenty of options for live music. There are also plenty of places to see and buy art (along with food and drink from local vendors) on both sides of the Washington-Idaho border, and many museums that offer stories and artifacts from the region’s rich history. If comedy is your thing, the region has that—you can even take your turn at an open mic night. Or if you’d rather spend a summer evening at the ballpark, the Spokane Indians’ season runs during the longest days of the year from June to August. And if golf is your thing, well, you’ve come to the right place. Always be sure to check theater and venue websites to confirm performances and secure tickets. New acts are often added—and sometimes subtracted—mid-summer. As for kids, just about every place welcomes them, and often they can enter museums for free or at a reduced rate. But it is always good to check websites and call ahead, just to be sure. ArtFest (May 31 - June 2) While Memorial Day tends to be the unofficial start of summer, the local art scene has its first big summer event the following weekend with the ArtFest at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture in Spokane. About 150 art vendors will present their work, and children can make their own in the Kids Fair. Food and beverages are available, and local musicians will provide the backdrop for browsing the art booths. Admission is free. ArtFestSpokane.com Hoopfest (June 29 - 30) Dubbed the Best Basketball Weekend on Earth, Hoopfest takes over Downtown Spokane every June, turning streets into courts as the city drums with the sound of bouncing basketballs. Form a team of three and participate in one of the many divisions, or just make your way downtown to watch the action and stroll Riverside Park. With thousands of teams and volunteers, nearly 500 courts and plenty of shopping, dining and sporting available downtown, it’s easy to make a day of it at the largest three-on-three tournament in the world. SpokaneHoopfest.net Art on the Green (August 2 - 4) After celebrating its 50th anniversary a year ago, Art on the Green kicks off August with music, food and, of course, art at North Idaho College in Downtown Coeur d’Alene. It is free (including parking) and family friendly, and it features nearly 200 artist’s booths. Two stages of music will host live, local music all weekend, and a beer and wine garden will feature some of the best breweries and wineries in the region. There’s also a full lineup of food options. Check out the list of artists in advance at ArtOnTheGreenCdA.com. Festival at Sandpoint (August 1 - 11) Since its start in 1983, the annual Festival at Sandpoint brings in a variety of musical acts for its 11-day run. This year is no different, with performances from Jackson Browne, The Avett Brothers, Lake Street Dive and Walk Off The Earth headlining the event. Held at War Memorial Field on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, the festival shows off the natural beauty of North Idaho. Bringing your own food is fine; you can also buy from the dozen vendors on-site. And yes, by all means, come ready to dance. FestivalAtSandpoint.com Blue Waters Bluegrass Festival (August 9 - 11) Overlapping the end of the Festival at Sandpoint is this event on the shores of a different lake—Medical Lake, just across the Washington border. Now in its 18th year, Blue Waters features performances from Wood & Wire, High Fidelity and Masontown among its 10 acts this season. Bring your own food or buy from vendors at the festival, and feel free to camp the entire weekend (for a $40 fee). The weekend also features the Blue Waters Youth Camp where anyone 20 or younger can begin to hone their skills on a variety of bluegrass instruments. BlueWatersBluegrass.org Large music venues The First Interstate Center for the Arts in Spokane kicks off its summer musical season with “School of Rock” in early May and then hosts the touring performance of “Les Miserables” from August 6 through 11. Its summer slate also includes performances by Bella Fleck and the Flecktones (June 3), Lonestar (August 1) and O.A.R. (August 13). Across the river at the Spokane Arena, Carrie Underwood performs on May 22, Khalid will be there July 9, and Disturbed takes the stage on July 31. Northern Quest Resort and Casino in Airway Heights, just west of Spokane, also brings in some big acts this summer. Colin Hay (May 11) and Charley Pride (May 30) start the season indoors, and then a few big acts take their concerts outdoors. Train and The Goo Goo Dolls perform on June 9, followed by Judas Priest on June 19. The Outdoor Concert Series continues with a number of other performances, headlined by Toby Keith on August 6, Styx on August 22 and the Steve Miller Band on August 28. A full schedule is available on the Resort and Casino’s website. Medium-sized music venues Downtown Spokane has a number of historic venues that major acts often make part of their national tours. Now 104 years old, the Bing Crosby Theater starts its summer bill with “Disney’s Newsies: The Broadway Musical” from May 24 to June 2. Just a short walk away, the Spokane Knitting Factory is bringing in a variety of acts this summer to the Bing as well as its own concert house downtown. Its lineup is eclectic with acts to suit a number of tastes. The full schedule is available online (Sp.KnittingFactory.com), and often new performances are added during the summer. The Martin Woldson Theater at the Fox, another historic downtown venue, hosts Art Garfunkel on May 16. John Ford Coley (June 7), Indigo Girls (June 18) and Illusionist Jay Owenhouse (July 11) visit in the first half of the summer. Norah Jones also performs live on July 26. Smaller music venues The indie music venue The Bartlett in Spokane hosts a series of acts this summer, most with tickets for $15 or less. The Big Dipper and The Pin in Spokane also bring in live music throughout the season. The Hive opened six years ago in Downtown Sandpoint, and a variety of acts will roll through this summer. The 219 Lounge in Sandpoint also hosts live music. While it doesn’t offer as many music events, The Panida Theater in Sandpoint screens films and hosts other small events throughout the summer. The Snake Pit, a restaurant and venue about 30 minutes east of Coeur d’Alene, has musical performances nearly every Friday all summer. Art galleries, museums and more A number of art galleries in Spokane, Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint offer visitors the chance to see and buy work from local painters, photographers, sculptors and other artists. But the area also boasts a number of places to learn about the region’s history and culture through a variety of lenses. The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, referred to as the MAC, is the region’s largest organization of its kind. Its exhibits, collections and buildings in the Browne’s Addition neighborhood of Spokane are open Tuesday through Sunday, with adult tickets $10 and less for other age groups. It has plenty to offer families of all ages. The MAC’s late spring special exhibits focus on paintings and films from the Canadian North, Inuit Art, and Women of the Plateau Tribes. In July it will open its exhibit on “Giants, Dragons and Unicorns: The World of Mythic Creatures.” In addition, the MAC’s permanent exhibits include one of the largest American Indian Art collections in the country, and its Campbell House recreates and captures life in Spokane 100 years ago. Across town, the North Spokane Farm Museum highlights the region’s agricultural history, including farm machinery from as long as 160 years ago. On June 29 it will demonstrate how some of its equipment worked. The Spokane Valley Heritage Museum focuses on the local history of the cities between Spokane and Coeur d’Alene. It offers tours and a permanent exhibit that includes many historical photos and background on the area. The Museum of North Idaho in Coeur d’Alene offers visitors the chance to discover the history of the region, including that of Native Americans and the growth of sawmills and logging a century ago. It also offers “Living History Walking Tours” as a way to discover the background of the town. The Bird Aviation Museum and Invention Center, next door to Sandpoint in Sagle, highlights the contributions of aviators and innovators. It has more than a dozen airplanes on-site. Entry to the museum, open Monday through Saturday during the summer, is free. The Bonner County History Museum, on the shores of Lake Pend d’Oreille in Sandpoint, contains a number of exhibits detailing the history of the peoples of the region as well as the Kinnikinnick Native Plant Society arboretum. The Museum’s hours are a bit more limited—Tuesday through Friday from 10am to 4pm—but offers a free first Saturday every month. Wineries A few local wineries host all sorts of events through the summer and often invite visitors to bring a blanket, buy some wine and enjoy music and entertainment in some of the region’s most beautiful settings. Arbor Crest Winery at the Cliff House overlooks Spokane and hosts weekly outdoor concerts on Thursday and Sundays from May through September, and on Sundays invites food trucks. Be aware, though: The estate has a strict age limit (21 years old) that cannot be broken for infants or toddlers. Pets are not allowed either. The Pend d’Oreille Winery regularly offers live music at its tasting room in Downtown Sandpoint. It also hosts “paint and sip” events where, for a fee, guests get specialized instruction, supplies and wine as they paint. Comedy A night out doesn’t need to include music. The Spokane Comedy Club hosts a number of acts through the summer, many for multiple nights in a row. Its summer slate includes Drew Lynch, Steve-O and Michael Quu in May; and Matt Bellassai, Jose Bolanos, Carlos Mencia and Gary Owen in June. The rest of its acts will be posted later in the summer. And, there’s always open mic night on Wednesdays. The 219 Lounge in Sandpoint also is host to several comedy acts throughout the year. Local sports In addition to Hoopfest, Spokane’s summer sports scene is punctuated more regularly with the Spokane Indians, a Single-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers organization. The Indians play at Avista Stadium, and their season runs from June until the end of August, right up to the Interstate Fair. At that Fair will be the 32nd annual PRCA Rodeo on September 7 and 8. It features seven events, including steer wrestling and bull riding, and is the summer’s premier rodeo in the region. If golf is your flavor, there are dozens of world-class courses to play in the Inland Northwest, including the famous Floating Green at the Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course. Kid-focused entertainment Children are welcome nearly everywhere—though it’s good to call ahead at breweries, wineries and concerts just in case—but a few places cater specifically to a younger crowd’s entertainment interests. Mobius has both a Children’s Museum and Science Center in Spokane. The Museum, located inside River Park Square downtown, is open every day but Monday and has a variety of activities and areas for kids to interact and play. The Science Center, located next to Riverfront Park, focuses on more inquiry-based exhibits and skill-building activities. Located between Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint, Silverwood Theme Park is the region’s amusement park, with more than 70 rides and attractions. Boulder Beach, the waterpark next door, offers slides and pools of various levels of intensity for children (and adults) of all ages. #featurestory #local

Opened in 2003 in Hayden Lake, Idaho, by John Grollmus and Brad Fosseen—the duo behind Moon Time in Coeur d’Alene—the Porch Public House offers diners exceptional food, brews, cocktails and service, all complemented by a beautiful golf-course view. It’s the perfect setting to dine and imbibe with friends, family or co-workers any time of year no matter what the occasion. With Moon Time being a neighborhood favorite for Coeur d’Alene diners since 1996, John and Brad decided to bring a similar concept to the Hayden community. The Porch features many similar menu items to Moon Time, with some that are distinct to its locale. From the delicious sandwiches, salads and soups to scratch-made specials, you’ll be treated to great food at even better prices. In addition to the selection of great regional brews and wines, The Porch offers a full bar and the area’s finest cocktails to accompany your meal. Whether you choose to dine in the comfortable pub-style dining room or enjoy the view from their outdoor dining area, you’ll feel like you’re at home. At The Porch, the values are consistent with those implemented at Moon Time. The owners and staff have a relationship built on mutual respect and friendship. “We value each employee personally, not just taking the time to say thanks every day, but also to know about their families, friends and significant others, and ask questions to know what is happening in their personal lives,” says John. With all of the success these friends and business partners have secured in the restaurant business, Brad says what makes him truly proud is that guests keep coming back and have become friends, and he has a staff who sees to it. Every neighborhood should be so lucky, and thanks to John and Brad, Hayden Lake is one lucky place. The Porch Public House Hayden Lake 1658 E. Miles Ave. 208.772.7711 WeDontHaveOne.com #local #hayden #businessspotlight

“We see smiles, excitement and, best of all, increased confidence.” For more than a decade, Signature Aesthetics has been changing lives from the outside in; bringing each client’s vision of beauty to reality. Owner Nancy Andrews, RN-C, has had a very fulfilling career as a registered nurse for more than 35 years, with her career evolving as a medical professional treating the aftermath of injury, as well as her own personal experience with a facial injury. “When I was young, I suffered an injury to my face that left me feeling insecure about my appearance for many years,” she says. “After receiving some facial procedures, it helped me regain my self-esteem and improved my self-confidence. Now I am blessed to be able to help others achieve their own confidence and experience the joy of having synergy with their inner and outer beauty.” Each patient will find themselves in good hands at Signature Aesthetics, as Nancy has an all-encompassing background, which will put clients at ease; from nursing in emergency, pediatric and adult intensive care, coronary care, flight team to home health, along with emergency transport via ground ambulance. She also has extensive education and certifications in aesthetic nursing that she’s held for the last 17 years. As technology and techniques advance, Nancy is engaged in ongoing training curriculum. This allows her to provide the best services to her clients. She invests hundreds of hours, keeping current in all techniques while expanding her knowledge in the latest equipment and products. Signature Aesthetics proudly provides the latest technology and techniques in anti-aging medicine. This includes laser skin treatments, chemical peels, rejuvenation procedures and rehydration therapy, women’s wellness and varicose vein treatments. They are also a certified CoolSculpting practice with three new machines. “We have held the top place for CoolSculpting in the Pacific Inland Northwest and the top in North Idaho most recently,” Nancy says. In addition, they have extensive treatments to relieve potential pain with laughing gas, numbing creams and standing orders from their doctor. “At Signature Aesthetics, we make it a priority to provide a welcoming and comfortable environment for all patients, and our staff has extensive training to meet our high standards,” states Nancy. “We strive to meet everyone exactly where they’re at on their self-improvement journey and tailor our treatments to their specific goals.” Signature Aesthetics feels privileged to personally escort their clients to achieving their beauty potential. Nancy and her team witness your confident, healthy appearance as you partner in recreating a beautiful reflection. “It’s all about love and the focus being centered on others,” says Nancy. “It has been my goal to help one person at a time to achieve some of their dreams and hopes. I feel if one person’s life has changed because of Signature Aesthetics, then it was worth it!” You can find Signature Aesthetics at two locations—in the Sandcreek Plaza in Sandpoint and at Prairie Family Medicine in Coeur d’Alene. Now is the time to let your beauty shine. Signature Aesthetics 208.627.6869 SignatureAesthetics.com 212 N. First Ave. Sandcreek Plaza Suite 103 Sandpoint 1130 W. Prairie Ave. Coeur d’Alene #local #coeurdalene #businessspotlight #sandpoint

The local Farmers Market is a weekly ritual for many in the Inland Northwest. From the larger metropolitan areas to the smaller communities, you’re never too far from a weekly market offering a variety of fresh produce and local products for your dinner table. Buying your produce direct from the farmers themselves not only gives you the freshest possible ingredients but helps you support local businesses—which in turn reinvest in your community. While many regional markets started as just a few vendors offering fresh fruits and vegetables, a stroll through your weekly market today and you’ll often spot food trucks and other meals to-go, butchers, crafts, spices, flowers and live entertainment. The market is not only a weekly stop for fresh food but also a central gathering place for neighbors to come together, kids to play and learn about nutrition, and an all out fun place to spend a cool morning or a wonderful long summer evening. The newest market in the region is hoping to capture many of the same qualities as its peers but with a few twists of its own. The Spokane Valley Farmers Market is open this summer. You’ll find it centrally located in the parking lot of CenterPlace Event Center right near the Discovery Playground. It will be open from 5 to 8pm each Friday from June 7 through September 13. “Spokane Valley has been lacking a farmers market, and we are happy to bring one to the table,” said Market Manager Katy Ryder. “The market highlights local farming heritage and local business, as well as creates a vibrant event each week to meet and engage with the community.” In the works for almost two years, the Spokane Valley Farmers Market is another event brought to life by the JAKT Foundation. The nonprofit is focused on creating events that celebrate the local culinary scene and culture in the Pacific Northwest, especially highlighting Spokane Valley’s vibrant and diverse community and culture. These events include Crave!, a food and drink celebration in Spokane Valley of which Sizzle magazine is primary sponsor, as well as Oktoberfest in the fall. “We are proud to be a partner in bringing a farmers market to Spokane Valley,” said Mayor Rod Higgins. “It’s a great way to bring together the community, and we are looking forward to its launch.” Each Friday evening, stop by the market on your way home from work or as a meeting spot to start your night. There will be a variety of musicians playing throughout the season, and you’ll also find a beer garden with a featured local brewery announced each week. Food trucks will be present for easy grab-and-go options, and once each month is Food Truck Night, which will highlight the growing mobile food truck scene taking over the greater Spokane area. “We will also be doing some cooking and nutritional classes throughout the season so you can learn how to prepare your farm to table meal from the fresh produce at our market,” said Ryder. As you stroll through the market you’ll encounter roughly 40 different vendors each week. A sampling of participants includes: Thompson Creek Farm, Woodard Family Farms, Tall Grass Farms, Peak of Abundance Farm, Dietz Farms & Big Barn Brewing, Twilight Cider Works, Bean & Pie, Scone Ranger, Mama Torrez Salsa, and Nuts on the Run. Staples like fresh fruits and vegetables will be readily available as will a greater variety of other foods and services as well. These include crafters and community groups, bakers and meat processors, natural and holistic medicine, and brewers. Many of your favorite local restaurant owners and head chefs get their foods from some of the same farmers and vendors you’ll find across our region. Eat Good Group’s Adam Hegsted sources much of his fresh ingredients from farmers market participants, as does Trinity at City Beach owner Justin Dick, who, like many others, uses local Sandpoint companies like Evans Brothers coffee, Pend d’Oreille Winery wine and Laughing Dog beer to complement the restaurant menu. The Spokane Valley Farmers Market is also partnering with local nonprofits that help feed low-income families. EBT cards will be accepted throughout the market, and it is also participating in a SNAP program called ‘Fresh Bucks.’ “Every $5 you spend on your SNAP/EBT card, you will receive $2 in ‘Fresh Bucks’—which gets you 40 percent more fresh fruit and produce at our market,” explained Ryder. If your kids are picky eaters and always seem to leave their vegetables for last (if at all), there’s another program aimed at getting them excited about fresh foods. The KERNEL program (Kids Eating Right Nutrition and Exercise for Life) is a youth-oriented nutrition and physical activity program designed to engage children in learning about lifelong healthy eating habits, gardening and exercise. There will be a KERNEL booth each week at the market, and kids are encouraged to join a fun and educational activity. Once the activity is completed, the kids will be given a $2 voucher for fresh fruit and vegetables. In 2020 the market will qualify to join the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Farmers Market program and be able to accept WIC checks. Residents of the Spokane Valley have been waiting a long time for a market to call their own, and organizers are excited to bring an exciting and full-scale weekly market to the community. “We are honored to host the Spokane Valley Farmers Market and are thrilled for a great season of getting to know our local farmers, vendors and community!” said Ryder. Don’t miss these other great weekly markets! Sandpoint Farmers Market May – October Farmin Park Saturdays 9am - 1pm Wednesdays 3 - 5:30pm SandpointFarmersMarket.com Kootenai Farmers Markets May - October Downtown Coeur d’Alene at Sherman and Fifth Avenue Wednesdays 4 - 6:30pm Hayden Market at Highway 95 and Prairie Avenue Saturdays 9am - 1:30pm KootenaiFarmersMarkets.org The Night Market at Kendall Yards Spokane at Summit Parkway May - September Wednesdays 5 - 9pm KendallNightMarket.org Spokane Farmers Market Fifth Avenue between Division and Browne streets Saturdays May - October Wednesdays June - October 8am - 1pm SpokaneFarmersMarket.org RECIPES: Recipes & Photos Courtesy of Marina Gunn MarinaGunn.com Muddled Blackberry, Mint + Honey Spritz Serves 2-3 Ingredients: ½ cup blackberries 3 to 4 sprigs of mint 2 tbsp. honey ½ lemon, thinly sliced 1 bottle of sparkling water Method: • Muddle 3 to 4 blackberries, 1 mint leaf, and 1 tbsp. of honey at the bottom of each glass. You can use a long spoon or a muddler if you have one. • Add ice cubes and fill the rest of the glass with sparkling water. • Add sliced lemon and top with mint. Spring Pea, Radish + Feta Salad Serves 3 to 4 Ingredients: 4 cups of leafy greens of your choice (red leaf lettuce, spinach, romaine) ½ lb. fresh spring peas (or 1 can of sweet peas) 5 to 6 radishes, thinly sliced 3 green onions, thinly sliced 4 oz. feta, crumbled Handful of sprouts (broccoli, radish or mung bean sprouts) ¼ lemon, juiced ¼ cup olive oil Pinch of salt and pepper Method: • If using fresh peas, taste them first. If they are tender, keep them raw for the salad. If they are a bit tough, blanch them in a small pot of boiling salted water until just tender, 2 to 4 minutes. Drain and spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer to cool. If using frozen peas, thaw them by leaving them at room temperature or by running them under warm water. Canned peas can also be used. • Starting with the salad greens, layer and add peas, sliced radishes, green onions, crumbled feta, and sprouts. • Drizzle the lemon juice and olive oil to top. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. • Serve and enjoy! #local #featurestory

When we buy or build a new home, we often focus primarily on the interior. How many square feet does it have? Will there be enough room for entertaining? How much natural sunlight will come into the home? While all these things are important, the trend is now to also expand and focus our attention on our outside living space, taking full advantage of nature and the additional space our lawns and patios provide. And the options are endless. Whether it’s outdoor furniture, appliances or lighting, there are an abundance of choices now readily available to allow consumers to optimize their outdoor living space while also increasing the value of their homes. With busy schedules and on-the-go lifestyles, outdoor living spaces offer a chance to relax, enjoy the beauty of the outdoors and connect with friends and family. With all of the latest designs and the superior quality of outdoor products, our outdoor living spaces are coming to rival the convenience, comfort and design of our homes’ interiors. As the heart of the home shifts outdoors, here are some of the top trends that will dominate the outdoor living landscape this upcoming season. Televisions It’s not only restaurants and bars that are placing TVs outdoors for entertainment pleasure; more and more homeowners are opting for the specialized TVs made specifically for the outdoor elements. When purchasing one, make sure the TV is rated for outdoor use; these TVs have extra bright panels to resist glare and can stand the elements. TV mounts and cables also need to be rated for outdoor use with UV protection. When deciding just where to place the TV, a spot that is protected from the elements and where there is not direct sunlight is optimal—under a pergola, a gazebo or a covered deck will be your best option! Outdoor Kitchens It’s frequently said that people tend to gather in the kitchen. Well, what better place to gather on a beautiful day than in an outdoor kitchen! When creating a kitchen on the exterior of your home, you can make it as basic or elaborate as you like depending upon your space and budget. Typically, you will need both a cooking area and an area for prep (if it is in your budget, opt for granite for ease of cleaning and durability) as well as some storage. If you don’t want to extend a gas line from your home to your cooking area, propane tanks or charcoal are a good way to go. These very basic elements don’t require utilities, which makes them a good option for those on a lower scale budget. Fireplaces Who doesn’t enjoy the warmth and beauty of a fireplace? By bringing this typically indoor feature to the outdoors, we can enjoy our outdoor living space significantly longer over the course of the year. While it is not only functional, fireplaces can become the focal point of your outdoor living space; a place where family and friends gather and make memories. Some of the things to consider when implementing an outdoor fireplace to your home are how the outdoor fireplace complements your home design. What purpose will your fireplace serve—provide warmth or be an aesthetically inviting place? Whether you want the fireplace to be the focal point of your outdoor living space or simply a feature that accentuates the natural surroundings, be sure it is scaled correctly and proportional to your home and surroundings. Outdoor Dining Spaces No longer does outdoor dining mean paper plates and cups. Creative ideas for outdoor dining spaces, from casual to elegant, are abundant. After all, who doesn’t love dining al fresco? As you take out the furniture from storage, it is likely you will notice that it has become a bit weathered over time. It’s easy to revive certain pieces of furniture with a fresh coat of paint! And don’t be afraid to be a bit creative in the colors you choose. If you have a bar cart, be sure to keep that accessible near your dining table. Accessorize with colorful ice buckets and dinnerware to change things up a bit. Bouquets of flowers can be beautiful to place on your outdoor dining table, but it is not always practical or affordable. Instead, go for something long lasting and use potted succulents. They are low maintenance yet will add beauty to your table for a long time to come. Hot Tubs Whether you want to relax and take in a beautiful view or soak some tired muscles after a workout, a hot tub can add much to your outdoor living space. The perfect spa in the perfect setting will create an ideal sanctuary. The key to creating this perfect backyard escape is to optimize your space. You will want to install your hot tub for maximum accessibility, the best views and for optimal usability. Depending upon the layout of your outdoor living space, you can either incorporate the hot tub into a deck or simply have it on a concrete patio. Be sure to take into consideration just how the structure, design and accessibility will enhance the aesthetics and utility of the hot tub, home and yard. Experts state that sunken decks, if not structured correctly, can create additional stress you don’t want. When installing a hot tub in your deck, ensure the structure is stable to support the weight of a completely filled hot tub safely without shifting. Lastly, perhaps you want to protect it from some of the elements during the colder months. Designing a pergola over it will help add to the cozy feeling and will also be functional as well. Outdoor Bar Who doesn’t love a cold beverage while enjoying a sunny day? Outdoor bars, like outdoor kitchens, don’t have to be extravagant. You can choose from a permanent structure or a simple pop-up, depending upon your needs and budget. If you have French or sliding glass doors, you can place a bar in a corner of the patio and access it from the inside through your French doors, making it a convenient extension of your living space when the weather is good! If you don’t have a lot of money to invest or have a small yard, portable bars and bar stools are a great option! (Plus, you can take the party with you wherever you decide to go!) Comfort is Key Adding plush cushions and throws to furniture under cozy pergolas will go far to making your outdoor space evoke a feeling of serenity and peace. Be careful not to overdo it, though, as the “minimalist” look is becoming increasingly popular. In outdoor spaces, this trend is manifesting in sleek lines, simple styles and a preference for long-lasting products. Lighting The right lighting can help make your outdoor space inviting, even on a gloomy day. Depending upon your budget, you can utilize anything from torches to fireplaces to integrated fixtures. Do you want to highlight a specific area? Using spotlights can help you do so. And it’s not just about fixtures. You can also incorporate lighting into a bar top, railing or stairs. Decide what outdoor elements you want to highlight and go from there. And don’t forget to utilize hurricane lanterns, a popular go-to item for outdoor living. They can be easily moved from tabletop to patio to your outside bar. To add some creativity, stagger ones of various heights or colors. Remember no matter how large or small of an area, there are many things you can do to expand your living space and optimize the beauty of the outdoors. Ideas are abundant and the opportunities to be creative are endless. And when it’s all done raise a glass, pull up a chair and relax! #homeandgarden #featurestory #local

This summer marks a decade in business for Laura and Seth Carey, the owners of Veraci Pizza. What started as a successful restaurant on wheels back in 2009, the husband-and-wife team found a permanent restaurant location in which to serve their delicious wood-fired pizzas, and they opened their doors to Veraci Pizza in Spokane’s Kendall Yards neighborhood in 2014. And they’ve been satisfying diners ever since. “I think our commitment to keep it simple and build slowly has benefited us,” says Laura. “We have had multiple offers to try different things, or open additional restaurants, but we are committed to keeping things manageable, allowing us to have time to continue to build those employee and customer relationships which are so important to us.” On the menu, of course, are their wood-fired thin-crust pizzas, fired up in their one-of-a-kind ovens. Hand built without a chimney, they provide a unique product you won’t find anywhere else. Guests can also choose from a selection of salads, appetizers, desserts, beer and wine, and, with the recent addition of a full bar, a variety of drinks. “Drinking an Aperol Spritz or the French 75 on the patio while enjoying the incredible view of Spokane and the river is a wonderful way to spend a warm summer evening,” smiles Laura. The Kendall Yards Night Market takes place right in front of the restaurant Wednesday evenings, 5 to 9pm, May through September. Stop by to shop local vendors, and when you’re done, be sure to stop in Veraci to enjoy a meal. Throughout the summer, you can find Veraci at area farmers markets with their mobile ovens, making their way to the Fairwood Farmers Market every Tuesday, Coeur d’Alene’s Wednesday evening market, the Thursday Market in South Perry and the Liberty Lake Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. Veraci is also available to cater your summer event or wedding. Laura and Seth invite you dine with them at Veraci daily 11am to 9pm. Veraci Pizza Kendall Yards 1333 W. Summit Pkwy 509.389.0029 VeraciSpokane.com #local #businessspotlight

A taste of something local. That is what you will experience when you visit Trinity at City Beach in Sandpoint. For the past 11 years, Trinity at City Beach, owned by Justin and Shaunavee Dick, has been one of the premier restaurants in the community offering a variety of timeless food, a beautiful view and superior customer service. Located inside the Best Western Edgewater Hotel, Trinity at City Beach is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with the exception of Christmas day. And when tourist season is over, Trinity is still thriving with locals and numerous community events. With a menu driven by their loyal customers, Trinity at City Beach is a place in tune with not only its customers but local purveyors as well, working with several local farmers to procure fresh lettuce, vegetables and more. Supporting the local economy is important to Justin, which is why he also offers wine from local wineries including Pend d’Oreille Winery and Small House Winery, as well as beer from Laughing Dog Brewery and MickDuffs, coffee from Evans Brothers Coffee and spirits from Mill Town Distillery. Trinity at City Beach offers timeless and consistent food while still changing it up with the seasons. The menu at Trinity at City Beach is not only full of variety and consistently delicious, but it is also accommodating to special diets including those who suffer from allergies, are gluten free, vegetarian or vegan. In addition to a wide selection of wine and craft beer, Trinity at City Beach also offers a full bar. They often partner with local wineries to host wine dinners, pairing fine wine with each course of one’s meal—just one of many special events hosted by Trinity at City Beach throughout the year. While it is clear that Justin and his staff are great supporters of the local economy with their choice of local purveyors, they also open their hearts and donate much back to the community they call home. As the most community-active restaurant in Sandpoint over the last decade, Trinity at City Beach has worked with and supported every major nonprofit throughout the Sandpoint area. In recognition of Trinity at City Beach’s commitment to community, in 2018 they were named the Outstanding Philanthropic Company for North Idaho by the Idaho Non-Profit Center, recognizing them as an outstanding company that demonstrates a strong commitment to leadership in philanthropy and brings philanthropic work to the core of its mission. “We are truly honored to receive this award,” said Justin, who considers it a privilege to work in such a wonderful community and is grateful to all who have supported him throughout the years. “We have an eclectic Inland Northwest cuisine among Sandpoint, Coeur d’Alene and Spokane,” he says, adding that customer service, fine cuisine and music are all intertwined to create a one-of-a-kind experience. “Food is only one part of a restaurant experience.” Trinity at City Beach is open Sunday through Thursday from 7:30am to 9pm and Friday and Saturday from 7:30am to 10pm. Enjoy the live musical entertainment each Thursday through Sunday during the summer months. Trinity at City Beach Sandpoint, Idaho 58 Bridge St. 208.255.7558 TrinityAtCityBeach.com #local #sandpoint #businessspotlight

Whether it’s your first time stepping foot in the Steam Plant or you’ve been a patron for years, you are sure to be impressed by the warm welcome from the friendly staff, inventive cuisine, handcrafted brews and unforgettable atmosphere of the iconic and historic Steam Plant. On the main floor sits the Steam Plant Kitchen + Brewery, a restaurant unlike any you will find—anywhere! The space, which recently underwent an extensive renovation and beautification, captures the industrial feel of the space while offering a unique and memorable dining experience to each and every guest. The open design allows for guests to take in all the visuals the space has to offer, from the large murals to the original steam pipe lines. “The Steam Plant is a great dining location for everyone! Our unique atmosphere is a great place to bring out-of-town guests to show them a part of Spokane’s history,” says Kelli Campbell, Steam Plant sales director. “The Steam Plant is a museum.” The enlarged kitchen includes a wood-fired pizza oven, rotisserie, char-broiler and smoker. The cuisine is eclectic Northwest and locally sourced. Popular menu items include the steelhead, pork chop and ribeye, with the summer menu featuring new house-smoked barbecue-inspired menu items. “Smoking a beef brisket, slow-cooking a chicken on the rotisserie … it all takes time and care and patience,” according to General Manager Jeff Cooney, adding that attention to detail—along with the restaurant’s location in the heart of Spokane’s entertainment and arts district—is why the Steam Plant Kitchen + Brewery has seen much success over the last year, along with their generous-pour signature cocktails and regional wine list. And don’t forget that the Steam Plant has also made a name for itself over the years with its craft brews created on-site, which allow beer lovers to choose from a variety of permanent taps and innovative seasonals. “There’s something special happening here at the Steam Plant,” says Executive Chef Paul Taylor. “During my almost 30 years in the industry, I’ve been a part of some truly great kitchens, but nothing is quite as unique as this space.” The new rooftop event space is one of a kind, offering an indoor/outdoor experience and featuring two outdoor patios with extensive views of Downtown Spokane. It can accommodate parties up to 150, which makes it an ideal location for weddings, birthday and anniversary parties, corporate retreats and meetings, and more! In additional, the Steam Plant is a full-service location providing staff and an event coordinator to assist with all your planning needs. This is the place to host that special summer event. “The most rewarding part of the Steam Plant renovation is the overall increase of community awareness. We are frequently serving new guests who have never been inside the Steam Plant before,” says Kelli. “The Steam Plant is such a huge part of Spokane’s history, and we are honored to have the opportunity to share a piece of Spokane’s history with everyone!” Iconic building. Industrial ambience. Inventive cuisine. Find this and more at Spokane’s historic landmark, Steam Plant Kitchen + Brewery. Steam Plant Kitchen + Brewery Downtown Spokane 159 S. Lincoln St. 509.777.3900 SteamPlantSpokane.com

Over the past few years my wife and I have come to really appreciate traveling in the month of September. With summer vacations over, kids going back to school and tolerable weather around most of the country, people aren’t necessarily putting travel high on their list during this month. Residing in the Northwest and being far from pale blue and bathtub warm ocean waters, we are happy to take a beach vacation any time of year. If you do head to the southern United States, Mexico or the Caribbean this time of year, you are always rolling the dice as mid-August through the end of October is peak hurricane season. While that can certainly ruin a vacation, your chances of being stuck in a major storm are pretty miniscule and your chances of having prime beaches, easy reservations and calmer streets are all but a sure thing. This past September we decided to book a six-night trip to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Located on the very southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, this once small fishing village would be unrecognizable to those who visited some 30 years ago. The towns of Los Cabos and Cabo San Lucas are connected via “The Tourist Corridor,” where a staggering number of all-inclusive mega resorts reside. As our friendly cab driver pointed out, there were currently six new massive resort complexes currently under construction. As we traveled the near hour-long (and $70) ride from the International Airport to Downtown Cabo San Lucas, we were pleasantly surprised and how green and beautiful the surrounding landscape was. The area is very much a dessert but still quite colorful. The driver showed us where George Clooney’s oceanfront villa was (currently for sale) and some incredible golf courses where six-figure membership gets you through the front gate. Alas, these were not in our travel plans. Many come to Cabo San Lucas for the all-inclusive hotels. Here you’ve already pre-paid for just about everything: room, food, drinks and entertainment. While I can very much understand a vacation in which you don’t have to plan anything, leave the pool or rarely take out your wallet (except to tip of course), we are much more into exploring new places, so our destination was an older condo complex set just a block back from the beach. When we talked with several Cabo veterans about going down in September, they all told us to push the trip off until October when the heat and humidity would both drop significantly. There is no sugar coating it; September is a hot and humid month for the Baja peninsula. With Hawaiian island-like weather most of the year, many locals actually leave during August and September to take their vacations away from the heat and humidity. With plane tickets and hotels 40 to 60 percent cheaper during these months, we decided the little bit of extra heat would be OK to deal with. The Beach The main attraction to most tropical vacations is the beach, and Playa el Medano is the center of all the daytime action in Cabo San Lucas. Playa el Medano stretches from the marina up along the entire bay and is the main safe swimmable beach in the area. The beachfront is littered with casual bars and restaurants, a few expensive all-inclusives and, as like the rest of Mexico, plenty of vendors. Dressed in all white and constantly meandering up and down the beach, they are looking to sell you everything from hair braiding and henna tattoos to sombreros, jewelry and cigars. While it can be a little overwhelming at first, a simple “No thank you” or just ignoring their attention-grabbing pitch will often lead them to move on rather quickly. Vendors are not allowed inside the beachfront restaurants either, so as long as you aren’t in the first couple rows of beach-front seating, you’ll be left more at peace to take down your margarita or Dos Equis. Water sports are easy to arrange here with jet skis and parasailing easily rented right from the beach. A dip in the warm waters feels incredible after walking through the humid air. The seas are less tranquil in the fall, but you can still wade out about 20 to 30 yards with your feet on the bottom. Water taxis are running constantly to take visitors out to Lover’s Beach at El Arco, the area’s famous landmark. While still busy, there are no services here, so it’s a little less hectic than on Playa Medano, and seeing El Arco up close is also a memorable sight. The Food As you would expect, seafood is the specialty in most restaurants and cafés in Cabo. With high heat during the day, we found ourselves mostly munching on appetizers and fish tacos. We found Tacos Gardenias right behind our condo and ended up eating there several times. The fresh fish ceviche and molcajete were incredible. Fresh fish or shrimp tacos were grilled or fried and came with a tray of about a dozen different sauces, salsas and garnishes to make an awesome and affordable lunch or late-night snack. Baja Brewing Company was started by a couple of friends from Colorado and now has three locations. We frequented the one atop the Cachet Beach Hotel roof just about every day. With so few tourists around, we were able to snag the tables with the best view, kick back and enjoy solid craft beers. As mentioned earlier, many locals will take off during the humid season, so a few of the more heralded restaurants were closed for a few weeks while the owners took their vacations. I would estimate this was only about 5 to 10 percent of the restaurants, and we were able to find plenty to eat everywhere we went. We splurged one evening and went to Los Tres Gallos, which focuses on locally sourced traditional Mexican fine dining. The open-air restaurant was dimly lit, and you feel like you are eating in a 200-year-old courtyard. The meal and ambiance were incredible. The Nightlife Other than the beach, many come to Cabo for its renowned nightlife which is located around the marina and the streets directly behind it. Once the sun goes down the music goes up and loud beats pump into the streets as employees look to lure you into high-octane parties at places like The Giggling Marling, El Squid Roe and Mandala. The over-40 crowd often makes its way to Cabo Wabo in hopes of spotting owner Sammy Hagar or some of his buddies up on stage for an impromptu live set. We found a few of the smaller bars a bit more appealing like Happy Endings Cantina with its two beers and two shots for $5 daily promotion and Pochos with its open patio and views of the super yachts parked in the marina. While partying and beach going is always available, there is plenty more to do with a week in Cabo. Some of the best sport fishing in the world is found off its shores; there are horseback and ATV trips into the surrounding dessert; and a day trip up to the town of Todos Santos can give you a break from fast-paced Cabo to enjoy a peaceful and artsy community where you can also visit the Hotel California from the famed Eagles’ song. There is always a reason off-season travel is cheaper, but those willing to risk the potential for less than ideal conditions often come away with an incredible experience for a lot less than they would have otherwise paid. What are you waiting for? It’s never too early to start planning your fall getaway today. #local #featurestory #travelandrecreation

No matter our age, we all desire that youthful glow. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle—including a well-balanced diet of highly nutritious foods, proper water intake for hydration and exercise—is the most beneficial way to help us age gracefully, but there are factors that are out of our control. That’s when it’s time to seek help from the professionals. The Inland Northwest is home to first-class med spas, and their specialists are ready to listen to your concerns and address the best possible treatments—individualized to achieve the results you desire. We can’t turn back the time on our age, but we sure can slow down and reverse the signs of aging. There’s no time like the present to restore that youthful glow. Here are some of the most popular treatments you will find at area med spas. Botox First approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2002 to treat frown lines, it remains one of the most popular cosmetic procedures on the market—and its popularity continues to climb. Used for both cosmetic and therapeutic treatments, Botox, also referred to as dysport or xeomin, continues to be a popular treatment to reduce the signs of aging by reducing wrinkles while rejuvenating a maturing face. Botox is the injection of botulinum toxin, which is injected into muscles and used to improve the look of moderate to severe forehead lines, crow’s feet lines and frown lines between the eyebrows temporarily. The effects from Botox will last approximately three to six months as gradually, over time, muscle action returns, thus lines and wrinkles with begin to reappear. Facial Peels If you are looking to improve your skin's texture and tone, improve superficial discoloration, reduce inflammation and smooth fine lines, skin rejuvenation through facial peels is an effective option. Facial peels can take anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes—depending on the area being treated. There are a variety of peels to choose from; the right one for you will be determined by evaluating your skin. To prepare the skin for the peel, it is first cleansed. The chemical peeling solution is applied to one area at a time (you may experience a slight tingling sensation), and causes the skin to exfoliate and eventually peel off—leaving you with new, regenerated skin. Facial peels work on two levels, first removing the outer layer of dead skin cells to reveal fresh new skin, then penetrating deeply to prompt collagen production. This transforms skin at a cellular level and leaves your skin smooth and glowing. Skin will be sensitive after a facial peel, so it is important to limit sun exposure during the peeling period and apply adequate sunscreen. For optimal results, facial peels can be performed every three to four months, so three to four peels per year. Chemical peels can also be performed on the neck and hands. Microneedling If you are looking to tighten your skin, reduce wrinkles and shrink your pores, you can expect ultimate results with microneedling. During a microneedling treatment, multiple tiny, sterile needles are used, creating controlled micro-injuries—puncturing the skin and causing physical trauma. This increases the production of collagen (an essential protein that helps keep the skin looking youthful with a smooth and supple texture) and additional healing factors, prompting a deeper layer of skin, the derma, to rebuild. This method can help with various skin issues including wrinkles, scarring, acne, alopecia, skin pigmentation issues, stretch marks, rosacea and loose skin. Results from microneedling are accelerated when your own platelet-rich plasma is used in conjunction with microneedling. For this process, a small amount of your blood is drawn, and the whole blood is separated from the platelet-rich plasma (PRP)—which is rich in stem cells and growth factors. The platelet-rich plasma is rubbed on the surface of your face while microneedling and travels down the small channels that are created with microneedling. Once it reaches the dermis, it works to generate new collagen and elastin. Microneedling can be repeated safely every four to six weeks until you achieve the results you desire. Dermal Fillers Injectable hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are a kind of temporary dermal filler or soft tissue filler used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, facial folds, and to create structure and improve the volume of the face and lips. HA is found naturally throughout the body; the highest levels found in the joints, eyes and skin. Hyaluronic acid attracts water in the skin, allowing the skin to become more hydrated and elastic. Often recommended for first-time patients, hyaluronic acid fillers tend to be the most temporary option, lasting anywhere from six to 18 months. Many patients claim that they see results almost immediately, though filler can take up to two weeks to fully settle. If you’re looking to not only feel your best but look your best, there’s no time like the present. It is important to only seek treatments from a licensed and trained professional. Consult with a specialist to ensure you achieve the results you desire. As with any form of treatment, there can be side effects and/or complications, so be sure to ask questions prior to any treatment/procedure. #featurestory #local

Tree-top adventure bloomed within Farragut State Park in Athol, Idaho, in May of 2018. It has since provided the already picturesque state park with the sights and sounds of families experiencing aerial obstacle adventures within its majestic forest. Tree To Tree Idaho features more than 60 different obstacles within six color-coded courses that participants ages 6 and older must swing, jump, climb or zipline through. “It’s 100 percent a family activity aimed for all ages and fitness levels,” says Manager Tom Brennan. The series of courses become progressively more challenging and vary in heights of 10 to 60 feet above the ground. After completing a course, climbers can choose to proceed to the next course or end their adventure. Each guest is equipped with a safety harness before being led on a 15- to 20-minute guided instructional course. Expect to spend two to three exhilarating hours in the trees. In addition to traditional adventure course elements, Tree To Tree Idaho fan favorites include an aerial skateboard, Tarzan swing and Tru Blu. “Tru Blu is our signature element located on our most challenging course,” says Tom. Participants jump off the course’s last platform 50 feet above the ground into a small freefall before being caught by an auto-belay system that gently navigates them to the ground. “It’s a favorite of our adrenaline junkies,” he adds. With adventure tourism a growing industry and parks like Tree To Tree becoming more popular, Dan Sullivan, operations manager, says, “What differentiates Tree To Tree Idaho is its home of Farragut State Park with its lush forest, mountain peaks and deep lakes. It’s truly magnificent.” For more information on Tree To Tree Idaho, check out their website for specific course age and height requirements, frequently asked questions, seasonal hours and to reserve your adventure. Tree to Tree Idaho 17545 E. Locust Grove Rd. Athol, ID 208.423.8289 TreeToTreeIdaho.com #local #businessspotlight

“I didn’t realize the gratitude and humility I would feel when somebody makes the decision to spend money at Vine & Olive. I wasn’t expecting the community to embrace and support us so enthusiastically.” It was the winter of 2017 when Naomi Boutz first introduced the Coeur d’Alene community to her new venture—Vine & Olive Eatery and Wine Bar in Riverstone. “I remember planning the opening thinking: 'I hope people come,'" she recalls. The doors opened to eager diners ready to take a seat at the table. And the seats continue to be filled. Naomi is joined by Chef Paul Mason, the brilliant mind behind the menu, which is European-inspired executed with Northwest flair. “He’s done an incredible job cultivating a team that is committed to hospitality and consistency,” says Naomi. “Our mission is to keep things simple yet soulful. Chef Paul has nailed that.” Guest favorites include the pork shank with creamy polenta, with pork that literally falls off the bone; the acorn squash frites served with spicy mayo, which nearly every table orders; and a Caesar salad to rival the best in the state. To complement the menu, Naomi, who has spent over a decade tasting and learning about wine to develop her palate, is committed to showcasing Northwest producers while balancing the list with interesting imports, venturing outside the box from many classic varietals for their wines by the glass. “Wine needs to be varietally correct and have good acidity to pair with food to be on our list,” she says. “It’s not a huge wine list, but it’s thoughtful, dynamic and changes constantly. We offer a new wine flight each month too.” For those who prefer a cold brew, they can choose from eight rotating taps that focus on Northwest craft breweries or one of the nearly two dozen bottled beers. The cool vibe and energy combined with good food and wine make Vine & Olive a local favorite. One visit and you will see that passion is plated and poured for each and every guest. Naomi invites you to dine and imbibe at the eatery and wine bar, open daily for lunch and dinner starting at 11:30am. Vine & Olive Eatery and Wine Bar Coeur d’Alene at Riverstone 2037 N. Main St. 208.758.7770 VineAndOliveCdA.com #local #businessspotlight #coeurdalene