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The Good Life, Northwest Style

Where the Good Life Takes Root

The Long Good Life

FAIRWAYS AND forks

NORTHWEST LIVING

diverse modern classic

ERIC HEDLUND DESIGN | ARCHITECTURE

COEUR D’ ALENE I SCHWEITZER I SILICON VALLEY

Our garages don’t just stand out — they set the standard. We offer complete, engineered‑to‑perform garage solutions built for durability, beauty, and long‑term reliability. From premium concrete coatings to custom cabinets and precision slat walls, every detail is crafted around your exact storage and lifestyle needs. Our coating is 4× stronger than epoxy, engineered to resist salt, oil, gas, and grease, with a slip‑ and skid‑resistant finish that is easy to clean. With our 1‑day installation, one thing is unmistakable: no competitor comes close to our quality or our customer satisfaction.

Experience, trust, and local expertise through every season by Like Media Team

Jackie Suarez has spent 25 years helping clients navigate the North Idaho real estate market with confidence and clarity. Her career began with a solid foundation as a paralegal and then in the title insurance industry. In 2000, she became a licensed real estate agent and soon earned her broker’s license, building a reputation for expertise and integrity.

Over the years, Jackie has consistently ranked among the top 2% of Realtors® in North Idaho. Her experience allows her to guide clients through every type of transaction, from first-time homebuyers to retirees relocating and investors seeking maximum returns. She approaches each transaction with careful research, strategic planning, and thoughtful communication, ensuring her clients understand every step of the process.

“I’ve learned that flexibility and attention to detail are key,” Jackie says. “Markets shift, interest rates change, and each client’s needs are unique. Being ready to adapt while keeping clients’ goals at the forefront is essential.” She regularly monitors local and national

trends, translating complex data into actionable advice for buyers and sellers alike.

Jackie’s focus on relationships sets her apart. Her core values— God, family, and relationships—shape every interaction. Clients appreciate her honesty, transparency, and unwavering dedication, knowing she treats each transaction as more than a sale. Jackie’s gratitude is apparent. “It’s truly an honor to work with multiple generations of clients, and the friendships that come from those connections are the ultimate reward.”

She serves communities throughout North Idaho, drawing on her deep knowledge of the local area. Outside of work, Jackie enjoys gardening, running, and time on the lake. She and her husband, Carlos, embrace life on their North Idaho farm with their dogs, Eddie and Elvis.

After 25 years, Jackie Suarez remains an invaluable source and trusted guide in North Idaho real estate, helping clients make important life decisions with confidence, care, and expertise.

YOUR FUTURE DESERVES PROTECTION

Whether you want to safeguard your family when you’re gone, protect aging parents, or make sure your wishes are honored for your children, a thoughtful estate plan helps ensure everything you’ve built—online and offline—is handled the way you intend.

Straightforward guidance, jargon-free explanations, transparent pricing, and personal support so you can complete your estate planning with clarity and confidence.

If you’re dreaming of a home that feels personal, unique, and truly one-of-a-kind, you’ve found your builder. As an award-winning, family-owned developer, Monarch guides you through every step of the journey, where each floor plan is thoughtfully crafted around your individual needs, ensuring your home is a reflection of you.

EDITOR

Taylor Shillam | taylor@like-media.com

ADVERTISING/MARKETING

LIKE MEDIA DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

Allyia Briggs allyia@like-media.com | 208.620.5444

MARKETING EXECUTIVE

Rebecca Baczewski rebecca@like-media.com | 253.363.8830

OPERATIONS & MARKETING MANAGER

Kamy Jones marketing@like-media.com

DESIGN

Creative Director | Maddie Horton

Design Director | Darbey Russo

Senior Designer | Kennedy Pew

Senior Designer | Sam Stoke

Digital Creative Director | Whitney Lebsock

PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOGRAPHERS

INLAND NORTHWEST

Victoria Belle Photography (Porch Public House cover, Elk Public House cover, MAX at Mirabeau cover), Stephen Dudzinski (113 Main cover), Sara Grace Photography, Ashley Kendall Photography, Alan Blakely and Joel Riner Photography, Aaron Theisen

COURTESY PHOTOS

Whitney Lebsock, Festival at Sandpoint, Brandon Campea, Sandpoint Chamber, Negative Split, The Coeur d'Alene Golf & Spa Resort, Scarywood Theme Park, Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Spokane County Interstate Fair, Valleyfest, The Club at Prairie Falls, CDA National Reserve, Atticus Coffee & Gifts, CDA Power Yoga, Evans Brothers Coffee Roasters, MickDuff's Brewing Co., Sandpoint Furniture, Terre Coffee and Bakery, The Dressing Room, TwentySeventh Heaven, Upgrade Labs, Vieux Carré NOLA Kitchen, Wishing Tree Books

ACCOUNTING

BOOKKEEPER

Cindy Dockins accounting@like-media.com

ADVERTISING/MARKETING

LIKE MEDIA DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

Allyia Briggs allyia@like-media.com | 208.620.5444

MARKETING EXECUTIVE

Rebecca Baczewski rebecca@like-media.com | 253.363.8830

OPERATIONS & MARKETING MANAGER

Kamy Jones marketing@like-media.com

EDITOR

Taylor Shillam taylor@like-media.com

ADMINISTRATION

Chief Financial Officer | Kim Russo

Chief Operating Officer | Rachel Figgins

Publisher | Steve Russo

MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission with each issue of REAL Northwest Living is to produce a unique product that inspires us all to connect with our local surroundings. This is “our” local guide to everything that matters to us here in the Inland Northwest. Where we eat, play, venture out and live! We feature the unique, the inspiring, the tried and true, highlighting all that makes our lifestyle here in the Northwest truly special. REAL represents the local stories, people and businesses that make up this place we call home.

A letter from our editor

There’s something undeniably special about summer and fall in the Inland Northwest. These are the seasons that bring us outside, draw us together, and remind us why so many people choose to build their lives here. Each year, the return of summer sunshine breathes new energy into the region, ushering in everything we’ve looked forward to: the lake days, farmers' markets, festival weekends, and mountain adventures that eventually give way to harvest celebrations, community gatherings, and cherished seasonal traditions.

This time of year is filled with moments worth cherishing, but a good life isn't defined by the seasons alone. It's found in the places we call home, the communities we invest in, the traditions we share, and the choices we make to care for ourselves and for each other.

In this issue of REAL Northwest Living, we're exploring The Good Life, Northwest Style through the people, places, and experiences that shape life across our region. We look at where the good life takes root: in our homes, our neighborhoods, and the local businesses that help our communities thrive. We celebrate the spaces that bring people together and the joys that transform ordinary days into meaningful memories.

When two of our most vibrant seasons arrive, it's the perfect reminder to slow down, be present, and appreciate both the grand adventures and the everyday moments that make life so meaningful. As the calendar fills with concerts, festivals, fundraisers, outdoor adventures, and seasonal celebrations, we hope this issue inspires you to get out and experience all that the Inland Northwest has to offer.

Thank you for inviting us into your homes and your seasons. Wishing you a beautiful summer and fall filled with connection, discovery, and the many moments that make up The Good Life, Northwest Style

Best wishes,

Taylor Shillam Editor, REAL Northwest Living

LOFT THIRTY ONE Designs the Entire Experience

More than the spaces it creates

by LIKE MEDIA TEAM

For LOFT THIRTY ONE, design does not begin with a floor plan or end when the final furnishing is placed. It shapes the entire experience, from the first interaction with a client to the way a completed project is presented.

Founded by husband-and-wife team Jodie and Wes Chapman, the North Idaho-based designbuild firm has developed a reputation for seeing what others might treat as separate pieces as part of one cohesive vision. Architecture, interior design, construction coordination, sourcing, communication, and presentation all influence how a project is experienced.

That belief is visible before a client ever steps inside a finished LOFT THIRTY ONE home. The firm’s award-winning website was created to reflect the same creativity, precision, and visual impact found within its projects. More

than an online portfolio, it introduces visitors to the firm’s perspective, standards, and approach. Every image, transition, and detail is part of the experience, giving potential clients a sense of the company long before the first meeting or design presentation.

“We believe exceptional design should be experienced before a project is ever built,” Jodie says. “That means bringing the same level of creativity, precision, and intention to every part of the client experience, from how we communicate and present our work to how we guide a project through completion.”

That consistency matters because the Chapmans understand that exceptional projects depend on much more than a strong initial concept. Their success rests on hundreds of decisions made throughout planning, sourcing, construction, installation, and final styling.

LOFT THIRTY ONE remains closely involved through each stage.

“We believe exceptional design should be experienced before a project is ever built.”

The firm works on luxury residences, largescale remodels, and highly customized projects in North Idaho and beyond. Its capabilities extend from early design development and construction selections to furnishings, procurement, project coordination, and final installation. This approach allows the team to protect the original vision while helping

homeowners, builders, and craftspeople navigate the practical demands of bringing it to life.

Their work is highly creative but also structured. Materials must arrive when they are needed. Selections must support both the architecture and the way a family will use the home. Builders need clear direction, and clients need to understand what comes next.

LOFT THIRTY ONE approaches that orchestration as an essential part of design.

Jodie and Wes have built the firm around collaboration rather than a fixed formula. Each project responds to its setting, architecture, and the people who will live there. Instead of reproducing a signature look, the team develops interiors that feel individual, collected, and connected to the home as a whole.

The result includes custom furnishings, natural materials, layered textures, unexpected details, or pieces sourced specifically for one residence. The common thread is the level of thought behind the finished result.

That attention extends to the firm’s sourcing and procurement capabilities. By coordinating materials, fixtures, furnishings, and finishing details, the team maintains continuity while reducing the disconnect that can occur between design and construction.

For clients, that means fewer disconnected decisions and a more clearly guided process. For builders and trade partners, it means working alongside a team that understands both the creative vision and the realities of execution.

LOFT THIRTY ONE is not interested in designing spaces that can be easily categorized or replicated. Its work is guided by longevity, individuality, and the understanding that the best details often appear effortless only because they were carefully planned.

That philosophy has shaped more than the homes the firm creates. It has shaped the company itself.

From its digital presence to its project management and final installations, LOFT THIRTY ONE maintains one standard: strong ideas must be matched by the work required to execute them.

For Jodie and Wes Chapman, exceptional design is not simply about creating something beautiful. It means developing the vision, communicating it clearly, guiding its execution, and ensuring every part of the experience reflects the quality of the finished home.

Where the Good Life

How location, daily rhythm, and community are shaping home-buying decisions

by LIKE MEDIA TEAM

A home that fits your desired lifestyle

Across the Inland Northwest, the conversation around real estate has changed. For years, the focus centered on appreciation, inventory, and timing. Today, buyers are asking a different question: how does a home support the life they actually want to live? It appears the answer has less to do with square footage and more to do with whether the right setting surrounds the right home.

From walkable urban neighborhoods to lakeside communities and small-town main streets, buyers are choosing properties that support a daily rhythm, stronger routines, and a deeper connection to where they live.

Redefining the Good Life Through Place

For generations, the region has drawn people who value beauty, independence, and a strong sense of community. What’s changing now is how those values translate into the homes people choose. Buyers are increasingly clear-eyed

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Reach downtown on foot in minutes

about the difference between a house that looks impressive and one that actually supports daily life.

A property near downtown Coeur d’Alene, within walking distance of Tubbs Hill, McEuen Park, and Sherman Avenue, offers something a larger house outside of town cannot. A Craftsman-style home on Spokane’s South Hill places a family inside an established school district near High Drive trails. A condo near Sandpoint’s First Avenue makes the farmers market, City Beach, and the climb toward Schweitzer part of an ordinary week.

The good life, framed this way, is the practical result of choosing a home where the surrounding place does much of the heavy lifting.

Location as Lifestyle Infrastructure

Walkability and access to nature have moved from nice-to-haves to top priorities for many buyers. Kendall Yards on the north bank of the Spokane River is one of the clearest examples. Residents step out of their townhomes onto the Centennial Trail, walk to a coffee shop or restaurant, and reach downtown on foot in minutes.

That kind of integration reflects a move toward what planners call lifestyle infrastructure: the everyday places, paths, and gathering spots that turn a neighborhood into more than a collection of houses. The Riverstone district functions this way. So does the

and a sense of time, daily wellness, BELONGING

Sand Creek waterfront, Dover Bay with its marina and trails, and the historic blocks that anchor smaller communities along the Kootenai and Pend Oreille.

Buyers prioritizing these neighborhoods are not just buying convenience. They are buying time, daily wellness, and a sense of belonging that builds through familiar faces and shared spaces.

Homes That Work for Daily Life

The Inland Northwest asks something of its homes that softer climates do not. Winters bring snow, mud, and weeks of bundled-up routines. Long summers pull life onto porches, patios, and yards. Spring and fall test gutters, grading, and how well a home handles a household in motion.

Buyers planning to stay are paying close attention to features that earn their keep across all four seasons. Functional mudrooms have returned as a top request. Kitchens with real

counter space and storage now matter more than open-concept showpieces. Southfacing light, properly insulated windows, and garages that fit vehicles and outdoor gear carry more weight than impressive entryways.

Older homes with strong bones continue to hold lasting appeal. A 1920s craftsman in Corbin Park or Browne’s Addition, a Tudor on Spokane’s Lower South Hill, or a farmhouse on a few acres outside town often offers thoughtful layouts and architectural character that newer homes still try to recreate. The proportions feel right. The materials hold up. Rooms designed for everyday use continue to beautifully accommodate everyday living a century later.

Builders across the region say clients are increasingly asking for that same sensibility in new construction: larger windows positioned to capture natural light, true entry spaces that can handle boots, bags, and changing weather, and kitchens designed around how families actually cook rather than how a space photographs. Light, layout, longevity, and a stronger connection to the surrounding landscape now lead the design conversation.

Buyers Prioritizing Longevity and Livability

Buying a home as a short-term investment is becoming less central to the conversation. As inventory has loosened across both sides of the state line, buyers are taking more time, asking sharper questions, and reading inspection reports with closer attention. Roof age, mechanical systems, insulation, and maintenance history now carry as much weight as finishes and curb appeal.

This shift reflects a longer-term mindset. Families relocating from Western Washington, California, and beyond are not chasing the next flip. They are looking for a place to settle, raise children, build a career, or move into the next chapter of life.

That decision looks different depending on the lifestyle someone wants to create. Hayden draws buyers seeking lake access without resort traffic. Rathdrum offers a small-town pace with services close enough to feel convenient. Post Falls continues to attract families seeking accessible school districts and room to grow. Each reflects the same logic: choose the daily rhythm first, and the structure follows.

Choose the daily and the

rhythm first, structure follows.

Community, Access, and Connection

Often, a house only works as well as the neighborhood around it. The residential pockets that consistently hold their value share a common pattern: walkable cores, independent working businesses, schools families trust, and outdoor access close enough to become part of everyday life.

South Perry District offers one example, with its small business corridor anchored by The Shop, Perry Street Brewing, and South Perry Pizza. The Garland District creates a similar sense of connection on Spokane’s north side. Smaller downtowns across the panhandle work the same way at a different scale. None of these places draws people in because of a single feature. They work because the entire environment feels cohesive, connected, and easy to live in.

This sense of connection is what turns a transaction into a home. The coffee shop where the barista learns their regulars’ daily orders. The hardware store where someone walks a customer through the right fitting. The school where teachers stay long enough to teach a family’s second child. None of these details appear in a listing, yet all of them shape whether a buyer becomes a neighbor.

Real Estate That Ages Well

A home ages well when the place around it ages well, too. The Inland Northwest has the kind of geography that creates that longevity. The lakes are not going anywhere. The mountains will keep shaping the horizon much as they always have. The trails will keep linking communities across both states, and the small downtowns that anchor everyday life will continue serving as gathering places for the community.

That sense of permanence is the region’s quiet asset. It is what allows a cabin bought thirty years ago to still feel right today, and what keeps an established neighborhood desirable through generations of owners. The bones of the region hold steady, and homes thoughtfully built into that landscape tend to endure alongside it.

The properties that age best share a few defining qualities. They were chosen for the life they support rather than the resale story they would one day tell. They sit in places with working downtowns, reachable nature, and neighbors who notice when something changes. Their layouts adapt as households evolve, and they have been maintained with care rather than flipped for speed.

The Inland Northwest tends to reward buyers who pay attention. The homes that truly take root here reflect how people actually want to live. Not the version of living sold on a billboard, but the one that holds up across seasons, generations, and the long, ordinary days that make up a good life.

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Building on the

Marks Ranch Legacy

A North Idaho community shaped by the land it stands on

by LIKE MEDIA TEAM

For more than four decades, Rosenberger Construction has been building custom homes across North Idaho. The company is family-owned, locally led by Ron and Shelley Rosenberger, and known for the kind of craftsmanship that keeps clients coming back across generations. Their newest community, Marks Ranch in Hayden, reflects what has long defined their work: homes that respect the land they sit on and the people who shaped it before them.

Long before Marks Ranch became a residential development, the property was a working farm cared for by the Marks family for generations. The land carries a deep agricultural history that helped shape the character of Hayden and reflects the pioneering spirit still present across North Idaho today. When Rosenberger Construction began planning the development, the team made an early decision. The history of the land would remain part of it. The neighborhood would be built around what was already there.

Central to that history is Cora Marks. The original property owner still lives on the ranch today in a newly built Rosenberger home designed to keep her connected to the land she has called home for decades. As Ron Rosenberger puts it, “Development should respect both the land and the people whose stories are tied to it.” Cora’s continued presence on the property is the clearest expression of that belief.

Early in the planning process, vintage farm tools and original equipment were discovered across the property. Rather than clearing them out, Rosenberger Construction built them into the neighborhood’s design. A signature water tower now anchors the community, a visual marker that establishes Marks Ranch and honors the farm that came before it. Public art installations created from the original farm equipment are currently in design and production, set for placement throughout the community in the final phase of the build. Each piece will stand as a permanent reminder of the generations who worked the land long before any home went up on it.

Construction for the final phase of Marks Ranch is slated for completion in late 2027.

While the ranch’s history shapes the community’s identity, the homes are designed for the people who will live there next.

Marks Ranch is designed to give homeowners flexibility in how they build. Homeowners select from available lots within the community and either choose one of Rosenberger’s original home designs or work directly with the team to create a fully custom home. The result is a homebuilding process that feels more personal than a traditional custom build, supported by the decades of experience Rosenberger has developed across North Idaho.

Rosenberger Construction has stayed family-owned and locally trusted by holding to the same things that built the company in the

first place: quality craftsmanship, strong client relationships, and a hands-on approach to every project. The team understands the values, lifestyle, and expectations of the families who live in North Idaho because they live here too. That local connection, combined with the way the team handles the details on every build, is what has built the Rosenberger reputation across multiple generations of clients.

For Ron, Shelley, and the Rosenberger team, building is about more than the homes themselves. The work is about creating communities where families build their lives. Across the property, the ranch’s original character still shows through, from the preserved land elements to the open space that continues to define the community’s feel. Marks Ranch is the fullest version of that idea yet, a place shaped by the past and built for what comes next.

Shaping Spaces in Stone

Custom fabrication focused on accuracy and durability

by LIKE MEDIA TEAM

F or more than two decades, Monarch Marble & Granite has helped shape kitchens, bathrooms, and gathering spaces across North Idaho with surfaces that balance durability, precision, and timeless design. Founded in 2002 by Josh and Brooke Stebbins, the business was built on a straightforward passion for stone and the belief that well-crafted surfaces should function beautifully for years to come.

That passion continues to guide the company today. The team specializes in custom fabrication and installation for a wide range of applications, including kitchen countertops, showers, fireplaces, tabletops, and specialty surfaces. They also offer tile sales, giving clients a cohesive way to complete an entire space with intention and consistency.

The materials used span both natural and engineered stone, offering flexibility in look, performance, and budget. Common selections include granite, engineered quartz such as Silestone and Cambria, quartzite, soapstone, porcelain, Dekton, and marble. Each option brings its own strengths, and helping clients understand those differences is a central part of the process.

Every project begins with a conversation. Rather than pushing a particular product, the team takes time to learn how a space will actually be used. Lifestyle, family habits, maintenance expectations, and design preferences all factor into the selection process. Cabinet samples, flooring, paint swatches, and inspiration photos often come together in the showroom during that discussion.

“Those early conversations save people from making decisions they’ll second-guess later,” says Brooke Stebbins. “When we understand how someone lives in their space, we can guide them toward materials that make sense long-term, not just on day one.”

Stone and surface materials are sourced from all over the world. Many natural stones come from regions such as Brazil and India, while others, like Cambria quartz, are manufactured in the United States. That global sourcing allows access to a wide range of options while staying current with new materials and industry innovations.

Once materials are selected and details are finalized, the project moves into fabrication and installation, where accuracy becomes critical. Digital templating captures precise measurements that guide the fabrication process. Full slabs are cut, shaped, and polished using Computer Numerical Control (CNC) equipment, combined with years of hands-on experience to ensure consistency and accuracy. Installation is handled by an experienced team that ensures each piece fits cleanly within the space and integrates as intended.

“It is impossible to exaggerate how focused we are on precision. Everything we do, from estimating to templating to fabricating to installing, is based on precision. We utilize state-of-the-art machinery, from digital templating to a variety of CNC fabricating processes. When paired with a craftsman’s mentality, this results in a superior product that we can be proud of, and that our clients will want to share with their friends and family for years to come,” says Josh Stebbins.

What ultimately sets the business apart is a commitment to communication, integrity, and high-quality results. Each project is treated as a partnership, with the goal of delivering a finished product that reflects the client’s vision while standing up to everyday use.

Operating in North Idaho has further shaped that approach. Surrounded by mountains, lakes, and a strong sense of community, the team draws daily inspiration from the natural environment they call home. That connection to place is reflected in their respect for materials and their dedication to craftsmanship that lasts.

With over 20 years of experience, Monarch Marble & Granite continues to combine modern technology with thoughtful service, helping homeowners and builders create spaces designed to endure.

MEASURED IN Eighths

The trades behind a house that lasts by LIKE MEDIA TEAM

SEPARATING GOOD WORK FROM AVERAGE

Walk through a custom home with a builder who has spent decades in the trades and watch their hands. They run a palm along the casing where it meets the wall. They press a thumb into the seam between two pieces of stone. They tap a baseboard with a knuckle. They are checking for an eighth of an inch.

That is the tolerance separating good work from average work in almost every trade involved in building a house. An eighth of an inch off plumb on a framed wall. The same margin in the tile lippage or window reveals lines. Small enough that most homeowners never see it, and large enough that a trained eye registers it instantly. Once you know how to look, you cannot unsee it.

STRAIGHT LINES

A house is made by the people whose hands actually touch the materials. Framers. Masons. Finish carpenters. Electricians. Plumbers. Tile setters. Painters. The trades. Every choice they make is what the homeowner lives with.

Simple pleasures depend on a home that just works. A Saturday morning that runs without friction. A mudroom that absorbs three pairs of ski boots without complaint. A kitchen that holds a long dinner without pulling the host out of the conversation. None of that happens by accident.

The Framers Go First

The framing crew arrives first, and almost everything that comes after them depends on what they do. A house framed straight, level, and square lets every other trade do its best work. A house framed slightly off carries that error forward into every wall, window, cabinet, and door.

The tells are visible if you know what to look for. Doors that swing closed on their own. Floors that bounce when someone walks across the room above. Drawers that no longer close flush. Those problems start with framing.

A good framing crew works fast and looks rough doing it. The site is loud, the lumber stacked everywhere, the boots muddy. The work itself is precise. The visible chaos hides the underlying discipline.

The Masons Work in a Different Time

Masonry runs on a different clock. A finish carpenter can hang a hundred feet of trim in a day. A mason might place a few dozen stones. The pace is the trade.

Every stone in a fireplace or chimney is selected by hand, turned to find its best face, set into mortar, and grouted before the next stone goes up. A skilled mason matches color, weight, and

grain across an entire wall without the eye ever catching a seam. No template. Only judgment, repeated thousands of times.

Stone is also one of the few elements in a house that essentially never gets replaced. A wellbuilt fireplace stays where it is for the life of the house. Choosing a mason carefully is one of the few decisions where the consequences run essentially forever.

The Finish Carpenters Are Problem Solvers

Most homeowners assume finish carpentry is about precision. Tight reveals, clean miters, straight lines. That part is true. Finish carpentry is mostly about solving problems that other trades created.

Walls are never perfectly flat. Floors slope by tiny amounts. Houses settle and shift the geometry of every room. The finish carpenter walks into all of that and still has to make the

THE CHANGE IS practical

walks into all of that and still has to make the trim look correct. Crown molding has to follow a ceiling that is not actually level and, to the eye, appears to run in a perfectly straight line.

The good ones develop a quiet vocabulary of small adjustments. Scribed cuts. Back-cut miters. Shimmed bases. None of it gets seen because everything looks correct. A homeowner who notices the trim is usually noticing a flaw.

The Trades You Cannot See

Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC get buried inside the walls almost as soon as they are

finished. What remains is performance. The plumber who slopes a drain line correctly the first time saves a homeowner from a repair down the road. The electrician who plans the panel cleanly saves whoever opens it next from an hour of confusion. The HVAC tech who commissions the system delivers a house that maintains a uniform temperature across every room and runs on the bills it was designed to run on.

The surface trades come at the end of the build, and they take the daily punishment. Tile work fails at the substrate, not the tile, which is why preparation is the entire job. Paint fails at the

prep, not the paint, which is why a painter who spends the morning caulking and sanding is doing the most important part. Hardwood fails at the moisture content, which is why properly acclimated wood lasts, and rushed wood cups.

Lippage is the slight height difference between two adjoining tiles. The acceptable amount is roughly the thickness of a credit card. Run your hand across a tile floor and feel for it. That single test, performed in any bathroom on a walk-through, will tell you almost everything you need to know about the rest of the build.

Seeing What Is Possible

Most homeowners are not building from scratch. They are living in homes they mostly love and wondering what could be different. A wall removed. A kitchen reworked. A primary suite expanded. The friction has always been committing real money to something you cannot see.

That has changed.

Platforms like Houzz give homeowners design ideas, saved projects, and access to local pros. Matterport creates digital twins of homes, allowing owners to walk through changes before a wall comes down. Tools like Planner 5D and HomeByMe let a homeowner sketch a layout and see a photorealistic rendering without opening a CAD program.

The change is practical. A homeowner who can see the renovation can ask better questions. A builder who can show the renovation can earn trust faster. A homeowner who could not picture the change suddenly can, and that is often the moment a project goes from someday to scheduled.

The same eye that catches a poorly cut miter can catch a poorly designed renovation, and the tools now exist to do that work in advance. A renovation builder worth hiring will use them with you, not simply present them to you. They will share a screen, walk you through the existing layout, and start moving walls. They will tell you when an idea will be expensive and when it will be a problem. The visualization becomes the conversation that makes the work possible.

What Actually Separates the Best Work

Talk to enough people who have built or renovated homes well in this part of the country, and a pattern emerges. The best builders are not the ones with the biggest projects or the best marketing. They are the ones whose work holds up.

The difference shows up in small ways. The same tight reveal, room after room. The same flat tile, edge-to-edge. The same clean transitions where materials meet.

An eighth of an inch, held consistently, is what separates the best work from everything else.

The Parade of Homes, hosted each fall by the North Idaho Building Contractors Association, is a good weekend to start training the eye. Walk slowly. Look at the trim, the tile, the stone. Run a thumb along a joint. Check for the eighth of an inch.

The right builder. The right trades. The right hands. That is what builds a home that lasts.

eric hedlund design llc

Legacy of Timeless ARCHITECTURE

Eric Hedlund’s connection to Coeur d’Alene runs deeper than his portfolio. His grandfather immigrated from Sweden, eventually serving as a state representative and as head of the appropriations committee for the State of Idaho and later helping lead the development of buildings at North Idaho College, including the one that still carries the family name. After fourteen years designing private country clubs and residences across the country, Hedlund returned to Coeur d’Alene in 2004 and served as Vice President of Design for Black Rock Development before opening eric hedlund design llc (EHD) in 2007. Nearly two decades later, the studio at 754 4th Street has shaped homes around Lake Coeur d’Alene, across North Idaho, and throughout the Western United States.

The firm’s brand line is “diverse modern classic,” a philosophy that shapes every project. “We are not tied to a single architectural style,” Hedlund says. “Our strength is designing specifically for the client, the site, and the lifestyle they envision.” His early career took him through more than forty private and public golf facilities, from Tuscan-inspired clubhouses at The Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe to the rustic mountain architecture of The Stock Farm Club to native Spanish design at Querencia in Los Cabos. Commercial work, including projects like StanCraft Jet Center and The Davenport Grand, still accounts for roughly twenty percent of EHD’s portfolio.

Custom design shaped by North Idaho heritage

Across that range, EHD’s work is held together by proportion, detail, and restraint. The style may change from project to project, but the goal remains consistent: timeless, wellexecuted design.

That philosophy is most evident in the firm’s lakefront work. Hedlund believes the home, the interiors, and the landscape should feel completely integrated, and he encourages clients to plan for that investment from the start. Orientation, views, sunlight, privacy, and how the client intends to live in the home all shape the design process. Every property on Lake Coeur d’Alene has its own opportunities, and the architecture is built to respond to the site rather than compete with it.

Indoor-outdoor living drives many of those conversations. EHD visits many of the residences it has designed on the lake and at private clubs, which gives the team a working understanding of how these spaces are used throughout the year. The goal is outdoor environments that extend well past summer. Covered gathering spaces, integrated heating, fireplaces, and thoughtful orientation let clients use those areas into spring and fall, when Coeur d’Alene’s shoulder seasons are at their best.

EHD operates as a full-service studio: architectural design, interior design, planning, and construction management under one roof. Hedlund holds professional degrees in both Architecture and Fine Arts in Interior Architecture, and is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). He has always believed the interior and exterior should work together from the first sketch. That integration is part of why so much of the firm’s work comes from repeat clients and referrals. That same continuity extends to the team, where many members have been with EHD for eight to more than twenty-two years. That longevity creates a cohesive internal process and helps the studio deliver projects with coordinated, consistent execution from concept through construction.

Hedlund has watched the region’s design preferences evolve. In the early 2000s, heavy timber homes dominated the market. Now, client preferences range widely, and he often finds himself walking them through the difference between modern and contemporary, which are not the same thing. Lately, refined rustic and Pacific Northwest eclectic mountain architecture have returned to the forefront, and the level of detail those homes require is where EHD’s craftsmanship shows clearest.

The thread that holds it all together is the team. “We are a team,” Hedlund says. “It takes the team to make a successful project.” That belief, paired with a commitment to relationships, quality, and lasting design, continues to shape EHD’s work in Coeur d’Alene and across the Western United States.

EHD

754 4th Street

Coeur d’Alene, ID

208.755.7910

www.eh-design.net

f  @ehdesignllc

Northwest Custom Homes Inc. sets a

Built on discipline, durability, and longevity

Fby LIKE MEDIA TEAM

or some builders, construction is a business. For others, it’s a lineage. At Northwest Custom Homes Inc., the standards guiding each project were shaped long before the first set of plans was drawn. Led by Eric and Luba Fendich, the North Idaho design-build firm specializes in high-end, fully custom residences throughout Coeur d’Alene, Hayden, and surrounding communities. Their homes, whether French-modern, mountain-modern, or transitional Northwest, reflect discipline, durability, and longevity.

For Eric, building is generational. “Building has been in my family for generations,” he says. “I grew up around job sites, tools, and the expectation that if you’re going to do something, you do it right.” That

early foundation shaped the expectations the company maintains today. “My goal is simple: build it right, build it strong, and build it to last.”

Operating as a design-build firm, they follow a collaborative, detail-driven process. It begins with listening. Before plans are refined, they work to understand how a client lives day-to-day, not just what architectural style they prefer. From there, they collaborate closely with architects and designers to create plans that balance aesthetics, function, and budget.

When clients arrive with inspiration, the Fendichs focus on refining rather than redirecting. “Our goal isn’t to impose a style,” Eric explains. “It’s to refine their vision so it feels cohesive, timeless, and functional.”

That refinement takes into account lot orientation, lifestyle needs, and structural integrity. The result is a home that reflects the client while benefiting from professional guidance and disciplined execution.

Material selection reflects both environment and longevity. In North Idaho’s four distinct seasons, durability and performance are essential. They frequently incorporate natural stone, wide-plank hardwood flooring, custom cabinetry, oversized windows, exposed beams, and layered textures that complement the surrounding landscape. Energy efficiency, insulation standards, air sealing, and quality windows are prioritized alongside visual appeal.

Construction remains hands-on. Communication stays consistent, details are monitored closely, and quality control is proactive. By the time the final walkthrough takes place, the home meets the standard established from the first conversation.

For many homeowners, the custom building process can feel complex. They address this through clear phases, detailed selection guidance, and transparency around budgeting and timelines. Decisions are anticipated early to prevent avoidable stress. When clients understand what comes next and why, confidence increases and the experience becomes focused rather than overwhelming.

Craftsmanship defines the difference between adequate and exceptional. Throughout each build, that craftsmanship is evident in the alignment of cabinetry, the integration of trim, the transition of tile into millwork, and the way exterior lines resolve with intention. “We believe the difference between a good home and an exceptional one is in the details most people don’t consciously notice, but absolutely feel,” Eric says.

Current trends align with what they have long prioritized: functional luxury. Clients are requesting dedicated offices, secondary suites for guests or multigenerational living, and indoor-outdoor spaces that can be used year-round. Wellness-focused features such as home gyms, saunas, cold plunges, and retreatstyle primary suites are increasingly common. At the same time, there is renewed interest in architecture that will remain relevant decades from now rather than following short-term trends.

Their recent Parade of Homes project reflects that philosophy, combining natural materials, clean architectural lines, intentional lighting, and highly functional living spaces designed to feel warm rather than overly modern. Seeing families walk through and immediately feel at home reinforced the company’s approach.

Northwest Custom Homes is grounded in relationships with clients, trusted subcontractors and craftsmen, and local suppliers who share their standards. As a North Idaho custom home builder focused on luxury homes in Coeur d’Alene and surrounding areas, they continue to operate with a clear commitment: build homes they are proud to put their name on.

where life happens at home

Designing for the way you really live

By Like Media Team

The screened porch off the kitchen. The reading chair near the south-facing window. The garden bed that started as a strip of sod and now feeds the family. The best rooms in a home are rarely the ones designed to impress. They are the spaces that get used, loved, and photographed by accident.

They carry daily life in a region with long winters, short growing seasons, and summers that pull people outside until dark.

Square footage is overrated. The home that works is the one where every room has earned its place in the rhythm of a week. A mudroom that handles ski boots in February and garden clogs in May. A kitchen island wide enough to set down groceries from the Kootenai County Farmers Market without clearing the morning’s coffee cups. Function comes first, and beauty follows naturally.

It’s the small, repeated choices that hold everything together. The bench by the back door. The herb pots on the kitchen windowsill. The garden bed close enough to the kitchen that someone walks out to cut basil before dinner.

“The best homes here are not the ones with the most ambitious renovations. They are the ones where the porch gets used, and the garden gets harvested.”

What Works Here

Indoor-outdoor design moves are built to hold up through all four Northwest seasons.

Phantom retractable screens on a covered patio open the space to summer breezes and disappear when winter wind picks up.

Accordion or folding patio doors turn a back wall into an opening, letting a Spokane or Sandpoint living room spill onto the deck from May through September.

Ductless mini-split systems extend a three-season porch into a true four-season room without taxing the home’s main HVAC system.

Powder-coated aluminum and teak furniture stay outside year-round, no covers required.

Indoor-outdoor rugs handle wet boots, muddy paws, and everyday spills.

A gas insert in a covered patio with a cedar ceiling pushes outdoor evenings into November.

Built for Northwest living through every season.

“The best Northwest spaces aren’t designed for a season. They’re built to be lived in year-round, from summer evenings by the fire to the first quiet snowfall.”

Plants That Earn Their Keep

Much of the Inland Northwest falls within USDA Zones 5b to 6a, with roughly 110 to 150 frost-free days. Plant accordingly, and the garden does the work for you.

Low-water perennials and natives: Yarrow, blanket flower, penstemon, Russian sage, English lavender, black-eyed Susan, coneflower, and Karl Foerster grass for vertical structure. Once established, most of these survive on rainfall alone.

Edibles that come back every year: Chives, thyme, sage, oregano, rhubarb, chokecherry, serviceberry, and Oregon grape. Plant once and harvest for years.

Annual food crops worth the effort: Leaf lettuce and sugar snap peas in April. Bush beans and kale through summer. Tomatoes and peppers are transplanted after the final frost risk has passed, often later in May or early June, depending on location.

Where to source them locally: Regional farmers markets, independent nurseries, and conservation district plant sales across Spokane and North Idaho carry hardy, locally adapted stock that handles dry summers and cold winters with confidence.

Spaces Built for Four Seasons

By October, the wool throws come out. By June, they’re gone. Heavier curtains take over in January. Windows stay open in July. The house shifts, and so does the yard.

A fire pit on a flagstone pad becomes the most-used space on the property from June through September. A covered patio with a string of bistro lights stretches dinner outside from late May to early October. By November, the same space holds a stack of firewood and a snow shovel, and every piece of it earns its keep.

Five Small Choices, Big Impact

1. A bench at the back door with hooks above it. A simple landing space keeps the house functioning well yearround, handling ski boots, garden clogs, dog leashes, and grocery bags through every season.

2. A raised vegetable and herb bed within twenty steps of the kitchen. Distance kills followthrough, while proximity creates habit. A four-by-eight bed of lettuce, herbs, peppers, and tomatoes can produce steadily from May through September.

3. One good outdoor light source. A gas insert, a fire pit, or a single string of warm bistro bulbs makes the difference between a patio that gets used in the evening and one that goes dark at sunset.

4. A south-facing chair. Place a comfortable chair where the winter sun hits the hardest from December through February, so the room becomes the warmest spot in the house on a cold morning.

5. Built-in storage that earns its place. A mudroom bench, fireplace cabinetry, or a pantry designed around daily routines will always outperform storage that looks good on display but goes unused.

money can feel complicated, especially today, the foundation starts with something simple.

Parents can begin the conversation with very young children, and young adults can build on those basics as they take on more responsibility. Step by step, these habits create confidence that helps build long-term financial security and a more fulfilling life.

The following are the four key stages of financial growth.

STAGE 1: For very young children, the goal is to make money feel simple and manageable. A great place to start is with three jars labeled “Spend,” “Save,” and “Share.” When kids can actually see their money grow or shrink, the idea starts to make sense. Saving also introduces them to goal-setting and helps them work toward paying for a small toy or outing, teaching patience. Most importantly, you’re helping your children see money as a tool they can understand easily and use with confidence.

STAGE 2: If you have tweens (children roughly 9 to 12 years old), they’re usually ready for slightly bigger financial ideas. This is a great time for them to earn money through chores or small jobs, helping them see the connection between effort and reward and building a sense of ownership. Conversations about needs versus wants also become more meaningful, because kids are now making real choices with money they earned themselves. Your tween may be

STAGE 3: By the time teens reach high school or young adulthood, budgeting becomes essential. This doesn’t need to be overly strict or complicated. A simple system that helps them track deposits and withdrawals can make all the difference. Whether they use an app, a paper notebook or a spreadsheet, the real goal is awareness. Teenagers also benefit from learning how credit works. Understanding how to build a healthy credit score and how to use credit wisely protects them from costly mistakes in later life.

STAGE 4: Then come the early working years, when habits shift from learning to building. One of the smartest steps at this stage is paying yourself first. Automatic transfers to savings or retirement accounts help establish stability without extra effort. Even small retirement contributions matter more than most people realize, because time allows compounding to do the heavy lifting. This is also when young adults can start organizing their money into different buckets for rent, automobile payments, emergencies, retirement and everyday spending. These habits help lay the groundwork for financial freedom down the road.

Throughout every stage, the theme is confidence. Each small success creates a sense of control and each good habit makes the next one easier. Over time, these habits turn into a lifetime of financial security and fulfillment. When you start strong and stay consistent, money becomes a tool that helps your children support the lives they want.

in motion SUMMER & FALL

SEASONAL ADVENTURES, EVENTS, AND LOCAL FAVORITES ACROSS THE REGION

by TAYLOR SHILLAM

Summer and fall in the Inland Northwest carry the unmistakable energy of excitement, possibility, and can’t-miss community events. Long evenings turn into concert nights, weekends stretch toward the lake or the mountains, and downtown streets fill with festivals, vendors, and community traditions that return year after year.

Across Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, Sandpoint, and beyond, this stretch of the year offers no shortage of ways to stay moving and enjoy the best of Inland Northwest living, whether that means catching a concert downtown, riding a gondola into the mountains for dinner and live music, or spending an afternoon at the ballpark with friends, family, and fireworks overhead. From outdoor adventure to local entertainment highlights, these experiences capture the region at its most alive.

NATURAL BEAUTY IN OUR BACKYARD Trails, Hikes & Scenic Escapes

One of this region’s greatest luxuries is how quickly city streets give way to forest trails, river overlooks, and mountain scenery. Across Spokane, Sandpoint, and North Idaho, summer and fall offer endless opportunities to reconnect with the outdoors, whether that means a short scenic walk after work or a full-day alpine adventure.

Closer to Spokane, local favorites like Bowl and Pitcher, Rocks of Sharon, and Antoine Peak continue to draw hikers with dramatic rock formations, river views, and sweeping overlooks above the Spokane Valley. Farther north, trails near Sandpoint and Bonners Ferry offer an even more rugged mountain experience. Scotchman Peak and Mickinnick Trail reward hikers with panoramic lake views, mountain goat sightings, and high-elevation scenery, while gentler routes like Roman Nose Lakes and Robinson Lake provide quieter escapes perfect for slow, sunny afternoons. By early fall, the landscape begins to shift again, bringing crisp mountain air, changing foliage, and some of the most scenic hiking conditions of the year.

SCOTCHMANPEAK

BOWLANDPITCHER

ROMAN NOSE LAKE

ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & CULTURE

Concerts, Festivals & Downtown Energy

Summer and fall bring the energy of live entertainment into full swing, from outdoor concerts and touring Broadway productions to new large-scale music festivals that bring major experiences to downtown corridors. Spokane’s GESA Pavilion continues to host one of the region’s strongest outdoor concert lineups, with 2026 highlights including Sam Barber and Slightly Stoopid drawing crowds to Riverfront Park. On Thursday and Sunday evenings through September, Arbor Crest Wine Cellars’ Summer Concert Series pairs local musicians with their signature scenic vineyard views.

This July also marks the arrival of Blessing in Disguise, an immersive, multi-stage music festival created in collaboration between the Spokane Public Facilities District and Live Nation. Set throughout the North Bank district near ONE Spokane Stadium and The Podium, the festival blends major headliners like Macklemore, AJR, and Allen Stone with local vendors, food trucks, and interactive art experiences for a full-day celebration of music and community.

The Festival at Sandpoint also returns this summer, bringing nationally recognized artists to its intimate outdoor venue along the shores of Lake Pend Oreille. This year’s lineup includes performances by Andy Grammer, Portugal. The Man, JOSEPH, George Thorogood & The Destroyers, Switchfoot, and more, continuing the festival’s tradition of hosting 10 nights of live music under the stars.

Spokane’s STCU Best of Broadway series offers a different kind of evening out. Remaining 2026 productions include Monty Python’s Spamalot and & Juliet, continuing a theater tradition that brings nationally touring performances to downtown Spokane while creating another reason for locals to explore the city and enjoy a night out.

2026

EVE

NTS

JUNE-NOV.

Summer through fall is when the Inland Northwest does its best gathering. Lake days, mountain mornings, farmers markets, fall harvests. From Spokane to Coeur d’Alene to Sandpoint to Bonners Ferry, six months hold some of the region’s strongest traditions. Concerts. Fundraisers. Festivals, races, and seasonal celebrations that bring neighbors together. This calendar is the companion. Mark these dates, share them with friends, and make room for the moments worth showing up for.

Coeur d’Alene kicks off summer June 19-20 with two days of chrome, classic paint, and community energy downtown. Friday night brings the cruise along Sherman Avenue, and Saturday fills the streets with the Show & Shine, Young Builders Alley, and People’s Choice voting. Hundreds of classic cars, hot rods, and restored trucks line the blocks. Free to attend and built for families, it remains one of the city’s most anticipated weekends each year.

CdADowntown.com

25 SANDPOINT SUMMER SAMPLER

Farmin Park fills with tasting stations on June 25, pulling together the best of Sandpoint’s food and beverage scene for one evening. Local restaurants serve signature bites, regional wineries uncork seasonal pours, and area breweries tap into the summer lineup. Live music runs throughout. The event sells out year after year and draws a steady mix of locals and visitors. Tickets move quickly once they open, so plan ahead and arrive hungry.

SandpointChamber.org

CAR D’LANE CLASSIC CAR WEEKEND SPOKANE HOOPFEST

The world’s largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament takes over downtown Spokane June 27-28. Teams travel in from across the country, courts fill 45 blocks, and spectators line the sidewalks for two full days of play. Brackets span all ages and skill levels, from kids to elite divisions. Players compete in the heat, the city shifts into full tournament mode, and the fans cheer through it all. It’s Spokane at its loudest and most unified.

SpokaneHoopfest.net

BASEBALL FAMILY FUN! Homestands

June 2-7 vs. Hillsboro Hops

June 16-21 vs. Vancouver Canadians

June 23-28 vs. Tri-City Dust Devils

July 17-19 vs. Everett AquaSox

July 21-26 vs. Tri-City Dust Devils

Aug 4-9 vs. Eugene Emeralds

Aug 18-23 vs. Hillsboro Hops

Sept 1-6 vs. Everett AquaSox

AMERICAN HEROES PARADE & 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION

Coeur d’Alene celebrates Independence Day and America’s 250th anniversary lakeside on July 4 with a full day of festivities. The morning parade runs along Sherman Avenue, followed by live entertainment throughout the afternoon. The evening closes with a fireworks show over Lake Coeur d’Alene, visible from the public beach, City Park, and the surrounding shoreline. Food vendors and family activities run throughout the day. It remains the region’s biggest Fourth of July draw.

CdAChamber.com

BLESSING IN DISGUISE MUSIC FESTIVAL

Spokane welcomes a first-of-its-kind festival on July 11, with four stages, more than 20 artists, and a lineup headlined by Macklemore and AJR. The bill also features AWOLNATION, Allen Stone, Mother Mother, and a wide range of rising acts. Local food vendors, regional artists, and a latenight DJ set round out the day. Organizers designed the festival around community as much as music. Single-day tickets cover the full grounds.

BIDMusicFest.com

AT SANDPOINT

War Memorial Field transforms into one of the Northwest’s premier outdoor music venues for 11 nights starting July 30. The 2026 lineup features Andy Grammer, Portugal. The Man, George Thorogood & The Destroyers, Switchfoot, Rick Springfield, and more, all set along the shores of Lake Pend Oreille. Lowback chair policies and picnic blankets define the atmosphere. Attendees bring their own food and wine, spread out on the grass, and watch the sunset behind the stage.

FestivalatSandpoint.com

ART ON THE GREEN

North Idaho College grounds fill with artists, musicians, and families July 31 through August 2 for a weekend of creative work and live performance. The fully volunteer-led festival features a juried art show, multiple performance stages, a Children’s Art Garden, and a beer garden rooted in the Coeur d’Alene community. Admission is free. The event has run for decades and remains one of the most attended arts weekends in North Idaho–don’t miss it.

ArtontheGreenCdA.com

NORTH IDAHO STATE FAIR

Ten days of carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, and fair food take over the Kootenai County Fairgrounds August 21-30. The 2026 theme, “Fun is in the Mix!” sets the tone for a packed lineup, including rodeo events and the Party in the Dirt Concert Series featuring Lee Brice and Walker Hayes. The fair has run for more than a century. Grandstand tickets often sell out early, so plan accordingly.

NISFair.fun

ONE Spokane Stadium hosts two nights of open-air comedy headlined by Matt Rife and Bill Burr on August 29 and 30. The lineup features a deep bench of nationally touring comedians and rising talent, performing rain or shine. Seating options include all-ages grandstand and 21+ floor and VIP sections, with the festival built to accommodate groups of varying sizes. The festival returns in 2026 following a strong debut that built regional momentum fast.

FALL FEST AT SCHWEITZER

Labor Day weekend closes out summer at Schweitzer Mountain September 4-7 with live music, chairlift rides to scenic overlooks, and more than 80 regional beers, wines, and ciders pouring across four days. The village transforms into an open-air tasting event with seating along the slopes. Early fall color starts to set in, making the chairlift rides a standout. The festival draws crowds from across the Panhandle and Eastern Washington. Family-friendly during daytime hours. Schweitzer.com

SPOKANE COUNTY INTERSTATE FAIR

Ten days of fair tradition return to the Spokane Fair and Expo Center September 11-20. In 2026, the fair marks two major milestones: America’s 250th year and the 75th anniversary of the Spokane County Interstate Fair. Carnival rides, live music, competitions, agricultural exhibits, and classic fair food fill the grounds throughout the event. The fair draws hundreds of thousands of attendees each year, with grandstand entertainment and livestock shows anchoring the evening schedule from open to close.

Spokane Valley’s signature community weekend returns September 25-27, bringing families and visitors together for entertainment, food, and outdoor fun across multiple venues. The Hearts of Gold Parade kicks things off, followed by live music, cultural exhibits, a 5K run, and the dragon boat races on the river. Admission stays free. The festival has anchored Valley community life for decades and continues to pull strong attendance from across the Inland Northwest. Plan for a full Saturday. Valleyfest.org

SCARYWOOD HAUNTED NIGHTS

Silverwood Theme Park transforms into Scarywood for weekend nights throughout October. Scare zones, haunted attractions, and nighttime rides fill the park on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from October 2 through 30. The event has become one of the Inland Northwest’s defining fall traditions, drawing visitors from across Idaho, Washington, and beyond. Tickets vary by night and are available online only. Coldweather clothing is recommended. Not built for younger kids.

ScarywoodHaunt.com

17 HARVEST FEST & APPLE PALOOZA

The Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association closes out the 5th Street Farmers Market season with Harvest Fest and Apple Palooza on October 17. The block between Front and Coeur d’Alene Avenue fills with harvest produce, live music, food vendors, and participating shops offering apple-focused samples. Apple pie, warm cider, and caramel apples make the rounds. Attendees vote for their favorite creation, with the winner earning the Golden Apple. Free to attend.

CdADowntown.com

HALLOWEEN HUSTLE

A costume-friendly race winds through Coeur d’Alene on October 25, offering distances for runners of multiple ages and abilities. Options include the Haunted Half Marathon, Terrifying 10K, Freaky 5K, Vicious Virtual Run, and Goblin Kids Fun Run. Runners arrive in costume, candy adds to the course experience, and swag awaits at the finish line. The event blends fitness with Halloween spirit and has grown into a fall tradition in North Idaho.

NSplit.com

WINES FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Downtown Coeur d’Alene kicks off the holiday season on November 7 with a sipand-shop event that routes attendees through local boutiques, home décor shops, and sweet stops for curated wine tastings. Each ticket includes a commemorative glass and a set number of pours. Live music runs throughout downtown, complimentary gift wrapping is available at participating shops, and early holiday shopping is built into the format. Tickets typically sell out before the day of. CdADowntown.com

HUFFIN’ FOR THE STUFFIN’ TURKEY TROT

Riverfront Park hosts Spokane’s biggest Thanksgiving morning tradition on November 26. Runners, walkers, and costumed families gather for the 5K, 10K, Kids Fun Run, and virtual race options before heading home for the holiday. The event carries a strong community atmosphere, with the course winding past the Spokane Falls and through downtown. Registration is available in advance, and the race pairs naturally with a big Thanksgiving meal. It has become a regional pre-feast ritual. RunSignUp.com

LIGHTING CEREMONY, PARADE & FIREWORKS

Coeur d’Alene’s holiday kickoff returns November 27, the Friday after Thanksgiving, with a festive parade down Sherman Avenue, a lakeside fireworks show, and the lighting of more than a million holiday lights across downtown and the Coeur d’Alene Resort. Families pack the sidewalks early, and the entire city shifts into holiday mode the moment the switch is flipped. The event has run for decades and remains one of the region’s most anticipated nights. CdADowntown.com

The Adventure

Lifetime

Discover a place where adventure and culture come together. Jet boat through North America’s deepest river gorge, encounter wildlife, savor exceptional cuisine, enjoy award-winning Lewis-Clark Valley AVA wine, and connect with the living traditions of the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) people.

Your Adventure of a Lifetime Starts Here.

Get a head start on spring in the Lewis Clark Valley, where riverside golf, adventure, locally crafted cuisine and 78+ Platinum Award-winning wines await. Sip exceptional wines, jet boat through Hells Canyon, and experience the living culture of the Nez Perce (Nimiipuu) people. Discover why spring shines ﬁrst in the Northwest Discovery Destination.

Cornerstone Urgent Care & Family Medicine

Expanding care for Bonners Ferry’s littlest patients

by LIKE MEDIA TEAM

When Ryan and Kaite Gorman founded Cornerstone Urgent Care & Family Medicine in 2023, they had one goal in mind: to bring back the kind of medical care that feels personal. “We built Cornerstone to be a place where people can get the care they deserve: time, attention, and honesty, without interference from insurance companies,” says Ryan Gorman, a nurse practitioner dual-boarded in Family and Emergency Medicine.

Since opening its doors, the locally owned clinic has become a reliable part of the Bonners Ferry community, providing both urgent and family medicine in a warm, approachable setting. Now, Cornerstone is strengthening its commitment to local families by expanding into pediatrics and introducing the community to its newest provider, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Katie Thompson.

Families have always been central to Cornerstone’s mission, and the addition of a pediatric provider builds on that foundation. “As our patient base grew, we saw the opportunity to deepen what we already offered for kids and families,” Ryan explains. “Katie’s training and background bring something really special to our community.”

Katie Thompson, MSN, APRN, CPNP, brings a remarkable blend of expertise and compassion to her role. She began her nursing career in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), caring for the most fragile newborns, and later worked as a nurse practitioner in pediatric cardiothoracic surgery. After years in high-acuity pediatric medicine, she followed her calling to serve as a missionary, providing care to children and families in underserved areas around the world.

Those years shaped her approach to pediatric care in important ways. “Katie has an incredible mix of skill, humility, and compassion,” says Ryan. “Her level of pediatric expertise is rare in a rural community, and our patients instantly feel how much she cares.” Katie is the only certified pediatric nurse practitioner in Boundary County, offering local families access to care that would otherwise require travel to larger cities.

At Cornerstone, Katie provides full-spectrum pediatric services, including newborn wellness checks, developmental screenings, school and sports physicals, and sick visits. Families can now schedule directly

with her for ongoing pediatric care, supported by the same team they already know and trust. “She’s incredibly thorough and takes the time to listen,” says Ryan. “Parents tell us all the time that they feel heard and supported, and that’s exactly what we want.”

Just as important as what Cornerstone offers is how it operates. The clinic follows a direct-pay model, meaning it does not bill insurance. This model allows them to focus entirely on patient care instead of paperwork. “There’s a misconception that healthcare is expensive because of the providers,” he explains. “But the truth is, much of that cost comes from the insurance system itself. We’re seeing premiums go up across the board while families still struggle to get an appointment or an honest price. The insurance companies offer decent rates up front, then threaten to drop clinics from their networks unless the clinics agree to lower reimbursement. It’s patients who end up paying the price.”

Instead, Cornerstone keeps costs transparent and straightforward. Prices are posted clearly on the clinic’s website and in the office. “Healthcare should never be confusing or full of surprises,” Ryan says. “When families walk through our doors, we want them to know they’re getting honest care, at an honest price. That’s part of what it means to put patients before profits.”

Looking ahead, the clinic plans to expand services while maintaining its small-town feel, with goals including extended hours, additional lab testing, and continued partnerships that make healthcare more accessible to all of Boundary County.

As they continue to grow, Cornerstone Urgent Care & Family Medicine earns the trust of local families through clear communication, personal attention, and a model that puts patients first. Their approach is simple: give patients the time they need and remove the unnecessary complications from healthcare. “That’s what Cornerstone is all about: caring for families like family.”

32 David Thomson Dr., Bonners Ferry, ID 208.267.3932 | CornerstoneBF.com @Cornerstone.BF

The Long Good Life

Built for the years that still need to keep up

By LIKE MEDIA TEAM

take advantage of the northwest and live well

Get outside and move your body!

WITHOUT INTERVENTION, ADULTS LOSE THREE TO EIGHT PERCENT OF MUSCLE MASS PER DECADE

The Inland Northwest is built for people who want to use their bodies. Lakes to paddle. Trails to hike. Slopes to ski. Four full seasons of reasons to be outside. The question is not whether to live well right now; it’s what it takes to still be doing so in thirty years.

The shift from lifespan to healthspan

Lifespan measures how long someone lives. Healthspan measures how long they live well. The gap between the two is where most people lose the years that matter most.

Longevity research has made the distinction clear. Adding years to a life that has already lost function is not the goal. Adding function to the years already there is.

What this means in practice is a different set of metrics. Annual physicals still happen. Cholesterol still matters. But the data that predicts how someone will age has expanded.

The biomarkers that actually matter

Three measurements consistently predict longterm health: VO max, strength, and muscle mass.

VO₂ max is the body’s maximum oxygen utilization during exercise. It measures the cardiovascular system’s ability to deliver oxygen to working muscles. Higher VO₂ max correlates more reliably with lower all-cause mortality than almost any other single metric.

Strength predicts independence. Grip strength alone tracks closely with long-term health outcomes. Lower body strength determines the ability to stand up, climb stairs, and recover from a fall. Muscle mass protects against the slow loss that begins in the forties and accelerates with each decade after.

These are not vanity numbers. They are the clearest read on whether someone will still be hiking, skiing, or paddling at seventy.

Strength as infrastructure

Resistance training is not optional in a longevity framework. It is foundational.

Sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass, begins earlier than most people realize. Without intervention, adults lose three to eight percent of muscle mass per decade starting in their thirties. The rate accelerates after sixty. The result is reduced strength, slower recovery, increased fall risk, and a gradual loss of independence.

The intervention is straightforward. Lift things that are heavy enough to challenge the muscles. Twice a week minimum. Increase load over time. The goal is not bodybuilding. The goal is capability: carrying groceries up stairs at eighty, getting up from the floor without assistance, and loading a kayak onto a roof rack without strain.

Cardiovascular capacity as currency

VO₂ max is the closest thing to a master metric in longevity science. It measures the integrated function of the heart, lungs, blood vessels, and muscles. Improving it benefits nearly every system in the body.

The good news is that VO₂ max responds to training at any age. Zone 2 cardiovascular work, sustained effort at a conversational pace, builds the aerobic base. Higher-intensity intervals, used strategically, raise the ceiling. The combination produces measurable gains within months.

Some providers now offer metabolic testing that directly measures VO₂ max. For those without access, simple proxies work. Can you hold a conversation while climbing a steep trail? Ski a full day without your legs giving out? Keep up with someone twenty years younger on a hike? These are real-world readouts of the same capacity.

The underrated pillars

Strength and cardiovascular capacity rely on three supporting systems: sleep, metabolic health, and stress regulation.

sleep, metabolic health, stress regulation

LONGEVITY CARE THAT ONCE FELT SPECIALIZED IS NOW EASIER TO ACCESS, GIVING PEOPLE MORE WAYS TO AGE WELL.

What used to be niche is now accessible.

Sleep comes first. Deep sleep is when the body repairs muscle, consolidates memory, and clears metabolic waste from the brain. Chronic restriction undermines every other input. Aim for seven to nine hours, with consistent timing and a dark, cool sleep environment.

Metabolic health follows. Stable blood sugar, strong insulin sensitivity, and balanced lipids protect against the slow drift toward chronic disease. Continuous glucose monitors now give real-time feedback on how food and habits affect this system.

Stress regulation holds the line. Chronic sympathetic activation drives inflammation, disrupts sleep, and accelerates aging. Breathwork, time in nature, and structured rest help keep it in check.

These are baseline conditions, not add-ons.

The Inland Northwest advantage

This region supports the kind of life longevity research points toward. Outdoor access is available year-round. Lakes, trails, and backcountry routes keep people moving across seasons. Winter does not shut things down. It just changes how people move.

Access to care has expanded alongside it. Naturopathic doctors, integrative MDs, and longevity-focused clinics now offer body composition testing, metabolic panels, and advanced cardiovascular markers across the region.

What used to be niche is now accessible.

Years worth living

The point is not the testing. Not the protocols. Not the data.

The point is the morning at sixty-five when your legs still work, and the lake is calling.

The afternoon at seventy-five when the grandkids want to hike Tubbs Hill, and the answer is yes.

The years in the eighties when independence still holds.

That is the long good life. It is within reach, built day by day through small, steady choices.

Confidence,

Advanced aesthetic care that fits real life

LIKE MEDIA TEAM

By Design

Walk into a well-run aesthetic practice in the Inland Northwest and the conversation rarely starts with what a client wants to change. It starts with what she wants to maintain. Skin that holds through dry winters and strong summer UV exposure. Energy that still shows at the end of a long week. A face that looks like hers, only rested. That is the standard now.

Confidence is the actual product. Treatments are the tools. You can hear it in the questions clients ask before any procedure begins.

The Shift Toward Natural, Intentional Aesthetics

Not long ago, the conversation in aesthetics was filler-forward and feature-driven. That has changed. Clients now ask for less, not more. The goal is recognition, not reinvention.

This is reflected in what is being requested. Micro-dosed neurotoxin, sometimes called baby Botox, places smaller amounts across more targeted muscles to soften movement without freezing expression. Biostimulators like Sculptra and Radiesse build collagen gradually over months instead of delivering instant volume. Platelet-rich fibrin, known as PRF, uses a client’s own blood components to support skin regeneration without synthetic material. It is the next evolution of platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, and produces a slower, longer release of growth factors.

The thread running through all of it is patience. Results unfold over weeks. The before-and-after happens in slow motion.

Skin Health as Long-Term Care

The best providers treat skin like long-term health, not a quick fix. Maintenance first. Intervention second. That means a baseline of medical-grade skincare, sun protection adapted for elevation, and treatment plans that account for what the regional climate actually does to skin between November and April.

Cold winters compromise the skin barrier. Summers across Spokane and North Idaho bring intense UV exposure. Wildfire smoke has become a recurring variable. Providers here build protocols around those realities, not coastal templates.

Common foundational treatments include medical-grade chemical peels, microneedling with radiofrequency such as Morpheus8 or Vivace, and HydraFacial protocols paired with serums chosen for the individual. Laser resurfacing through devices like Halo or Moxi addresses sun damage and texture without long downtime. Each of these is a tool, not a trend. The right one depends on the skin in front of the provider.

Subtle Enhancement and Personalization

Personalization separates a clinic from a checkout counter. A consultation worth the price examines facial structure, skin type, history, and goals before any plan is set. A skilled provider should be able to explain not only why a particular treatment is appropriate, but why other options may be postponed. In practice, personalization looks different for every patient. Two women of the same age with the same concern may leave with entirely different treatment plans. One may benefit from barrier repair and laser treatments before considering injectables. Another may be a candidate for filler but achieve more natural, long-term results with biostimulators that gradually encourage collagen production. The treatment plan should reflect the individual, not a predetermined service menu.

Dermal filler is a clear example. The same product placed by two different injectors produces two different results. Skill, anatomy knowledge, and restraint matter more than the brand on the syringe. Reputable injectors work with full filler families, including Juvederm, Restylane, and RHA, and choose based on tissue depth, movement, and how a client’s face will age over the next decade. Done right, it reads as structure, not filler.

Body contouring follows similar logic. Non-invasive options such as CoolSculpting Elite, Emsculpt Neo, and

The best aesthetic plans are built around the person, not the menu.

Aesthetic care, done well, fts inside a fulllife rather than dominating it.

skin-tightening technologies like Sofwave have legitimate clinical use. They are not weight-loss tools. They are refinement tools for clients who already maintain their health and want targeted support.

Trust, Expertise, and Ongoing Relationships

The credentials of the person holding the device matter more than the device itself. Board-certified physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses with advanced aesthetic training, and estheticians with advanced training each have distinct scopes of practice. A reputable clinic operates under medical director oversight, documents treatment plans, and tracks outcomes over time.

The right questions before a first appointment are simple. What is your training in this specific treatment? How many of these have you performed? What does your complication protocol look like? Can I see results from clients with similar skin and structure to mine? A provider who welcomes those questions is the provider worth booking.

The relationship matters as much as the result. Aesthetic care is not transactional. The best outcomes come from providers who know a client’s face, history, and goals across multiple visits and adjust accordingly.

Beauty That Supports the Good Life

The women driving the modern aesthetics market are running businesses, raising families, and showing up in their communities. They want to look as engaged as they actually are. Aesthetic care, done well, fits inside a full life rather than dominating it.

The best providers understand this, and their treatment philosophies reflect it with less obvious work and more attention to the foundation. Plans are built across years rather than appointments.

The final measure of good aesthetic care is simple. A client should look like the most rested, healthiest version of herself, and no one should be able to point to exactly why. That is confidence by design, and it is what the best practices quietly build every day.

Radiance Aesthetics and Wellness INSIDE

Thoughtfully designed. Professionally delivered.

by LIKE MEDIA TEAM

Radiance Aesthetics and Wellness was created with a clear focus on professional, intentional aesthetic and wellness care. The practice is structured around individualized treatment, clinical standards, and thoughtful planning, with an emphasis on consistency and attention to detail.

Located in Bonners Ferry, the space makes modern aesthetic and wellness services available locally while maintaining a calm, approachable setting. It was designed to feel welcoming and comfortable without sacrificing clinical standards, blending considered design with evidence-based treatments delivered by highly trained aesthetic nurses.

“Aesthetics is different from traditional medical offices,” says Kaite Gorman, owner of Radiance Aesthetics and Wellness. “It’s about enhancing what’s already there in a natural, thoughtful way.”

The vision behind the practice came from recognizing a need for aesthetic services that felt accessible and professional, without relying on trends or rushed experiences. Many people are familiar with fast-paced medical offices or highly stylized environments

that leave little room for conversation or education. This setting was intentionally designed to allow time for discussion, planning, and clarity, ensuring each appointment supports informed decision-making.

Founded by Ryan and Kaite Gorman, the practice brings that approach to Bonners Ferry through a model centered on individualized care and clinical oversight. Kaite leads the overall vision and client experience, while Ryan, a dual-boarded nurse practitioner, serves as medical director, providing guidance and oversight for all aesthetic and wellness services. Care is delivered by a team of registered nurses, including Joslyn Chapman, RN, and Ashley Martinez, RN, BSN, whose clinical backgrounds and aesthetic training support safe, precise, and personalized care.

The approach at Radiance Aesthetics and Wellness is relationship-driven. Appointments are structured to allow time for discussion, education, and clarity, with each step of the process explained before treatment begins.

“We take time to listen, educate, and customize treatments based on each individual’s goals. Our approach is conservative, natural, and honest,” Kaite says.

The service offerings span a comprehensive range of aesthetic and wellness care. These include advanced injectables, medical-grade skin rejuvenation treatments, customized vitamin IV infusions, and FDA-cleared red light therapy using medical-grade Celluma technology. All services are performed by highly trained aesthetic nurses and supported by appropriate medical oversight to ensure safety, consistency, and quality care.

Clients may also choose from a selection of memberships and packages that offer both consistency and flexibility. The Radiance Membership offers monthly credit toward services or products, plus member pricing on neurotoxin treatments and retail skincare. The Light Lounge Package offers bundled red light therapy sessions with added savings on microneedling, while the Glow Up Membership for high school students includes monthly red light therapy sessions, discounted member rates, retail savings, and access to special promotions.

While the business is locally rooted, its training standards, technology, and treatment offerings reflect a high level of professionalism. Every service is delivered with attention to detail, and every treatment plan is customized. Recommendations are made with transparency and realistic expectations, allowing clients to move forward with confidence.

The experience is designed to be straightforward and respectful. There is no pressure to pursue services, no emphasis on trends, and no one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, clients are given time, information, and support throughout their visit, from consultation through follow-up.

Today, Radiance Aesthetics and Wellness provides Bonners Ferry with access to modern aesthetic and wellness care delivered with consistency, education, and personalized attention. It offers a thoughtful starting point for those who value professionalism, intention, and care done well.

FINEST EATS

The Good Life on a Plate

In the Inland Northwest, dining reflects the way people choose to live. Quality dining experiences are built on consistency, familiarity, and doing things well over time. The places that last here are the ones that earn it.

You’ll see it in the spots people return to on purpose. A table that feels the same every time you sit down. A menu that shifts with the season but keeps what works. Food made with care, in settings where the details are handled, and the results speak for themselves.

Ingredients stay close to home when they can, shaped by a shorter growing season and a climate that requires thoughtful planning. This shows up in dishes that feel grounded and straightforward. Kitchens work with what’s ready, and the menus follow.

Dining in this region offers range. Polished dining rooms, neighborhood staples, and places that fall somewhere in between. The standard doesn't change. Kitchens execute. Service is steady. The experience holds up, whether it's a weeknight dinner or a table filled for something worth celebrating.

What makes it work is how naturally it fits into daily life. Here, good food isn’t reserved for special occasions; it’s an integral part of the routine. Local dining hubs are where people meet, sit longer than planned, and come back without needing a reason.

That's the good life here. Food worth sitting down to, again and again.

it ’s where the

north idaho

In North Idaho, dining stays close to what matters. Menus follow the season, portions feel honest, and the pace lets you settle in. You’ll find food that’s made with care, not flash, and places people return to on purpose. It’s simple, consistent, and done right.

102

219 Lounge: Sandpoint’s High Dive with History

Blending craft cocktails, community, and character at the Niner

104

106

113 Main Earns Its Place at the Table

A downtown restaurant shaped by craft, pace, and community

The Elk public, two seven public house, el que, moon time, the porch public house

Map your way through these five establishments offering upscale pub fare

219 Lounge

SANDPOINT’S HIGH DIVE

with HISTORY

Blending craft cocktails, community, and character at the Niner

by LIKE MEDIA TEAM

In downtown Sandpoint, the 219 Lounge, known affectionately as “the Niner,” has been part of the city’s fabric since 1934.

Following a complete remodel in 2017, the bar returned to its 1930s roots with a design that honors its past while embracing modern comfort. The result is a refined “High Dive Bar” atmosphere that blends character with quality. If you haven’t stopped in for a while, you may be surprised by just how much has changed since the remodel. “We’ve combined gritty charm, affordable drinks, and a laid-back attitude with a large selection of rotating craft beers, topshelf whiskies and spirits, artisanal and classic cocktails, and eclectic décor, all without losing that unpretentious, everyone-is-welcome vibe,” says Mel Dick, co-owner of

all crafted with high-quality ingredients and attention to detail. It is also the only place in town to offer a late-night happy hour from 9 to 11 pm, a tradition that keeps the atmosphere lively well into the evening.

Music plays a defining role at the Niner, with live performances on most Friday and Saturday evenings featuring local, regional, and national touring acts. During many music events, the Niner also hosts food trucks, giving guests another reason to stay awhile and make an evening of it. “For a bar in this area, that’s something special, and the outdoor patio and bar come alive with music on summer nights,” says Mel. Over time, the Niner has become a community gathering place where people come together over live music, good drinks, and great company.

Inside, the mood is warm, familiar, and welcoming. Vintage details, comfortable seating, and soft lighting create a space where regulars and visitors alike feel at home. Its historic grit remains part of the charm, but these days the Niner is defined just as much by its warmth, hospitality, and easygoing spirit. Guests can settle in with a drink and enjoy a game of pool or foosball, adding to the bar’s relaxed, social energy. “Our bartenders are friendly, focused, and professional,” says Zac Manor, a longtime 219 bartender who was recently promoted to general manager. “Each one has been here for several years and is part of the community.” That sense of familiarity helps

“Whether you want to kick back with a draft Pabst Blue Ribbon, a can of Hamm’s, or a simple vodka soda or rum and Coke, the Niner is still your place,” says Zac. “And if you’re looking for a great craft beer, a rare bourbon, a standout margarita, or a classic cocktail such as a Manhattan or Old

The Niner offers both classic favorites and creative seasonal cocktails, including alcoholic and nonalcoholic options,

Customer reviews consistently reflect the same themes: friendly staff, great service, and a setting that feels genuinely authentic to Sandpoint. Patrons often praise the bar’s welcoming energy and attention to detail, noting its clean, comfortable environment and familiar faces behind the counter.

More than a bar, the 219 Lounge represents a piece of Sandpoint’s identity. It’s where history and hospitality come together, where tradition feels alive, and where every visit reminds you why some places never lose their charm.

113 MAIN EARNS ITS PLACE AT THE TABLE

A DOWNTOWN RESTAURANT SHAPED BY CRAFT, PACE, AND COMMUNITY

by LIKE MEDIA TEAM

In its first couple of years, 113 Main has quickly become one of downtown Sandpoint’s favorite gathering places. Housed in the historic Truby’s Building, the restaurant’s mix of exposed brick, black metal, and copper accents gives it a sense of place that is both timeless and comfortable. The open kitchen and the easy warmth of the staff make it clear that this is a spot built around connection.

“It’s been such a rewarding couple of years,” says owner Justin Dick. “What stands out most to me is the incredible support we’ve received from the community. We’ve really found our rhythm, and it’s been amazing to watch our guests become regulars.”

That rhythm defines the 113 Main experience. It’s more than food; it’s the atmosphere, the pace, and the comfort that fill the space. The music stays low, the lighting warm, and everything runs with a quiet confidence that ties it all together. Guests can drop in for a casual lunch or spend the evening lingering over a slow meal with friends.

The menu follows the same thoughtful approach, blending creativity with familiarity. Everything at 113 Main is made from scratch using local ingredients whenever possible. The Chilean Sea Bass, pistachiocrusted chicken salad, and 113 Main Burger have quickly become favorites. At the same time, dishes like filet mignon, NY strip steak, hamachi crudo, and lobster mac and cheese showcase the kitchen’s range and attention to detail. Each dish is carefully crafted to keep guests coming back to see what’s next.

Lunch service brought a new pace to the day. “Dinner still has that destination feel,” Justin says, “but lunch has added a relaxed flow that keeps things lively from open to close.” Whether it’s a quick midday stop or a leisurely evening, the food remains approachable yet refined—designed to let the ingredients speak for themselves.

The bar is an essential part of the atmosphere. Signature cocktails like the Vesper Lynd, Smoke Show, and Pillow Talk highlight the creativity of a team that understands balance. Every drink is crafted to complement the menu’s flavors, while the wine and beer list focuses on regional producers who share the

restaurant’s commitment to quality. On any given evening, locals gather at the bar to share stories, toast milestones, or unwind after a long day. It’s the kind of place that naturally brings people together.

Behind it all is a team of people who love what they do. “Our staff is everything,” Justin says. “We’ve built a culture of collaboration and respect. Everyone contributes ideas, and that sense of ownership shows in how they care for our guests.” It’s a level of attention that turns a meal into an experience, shaped by a team that truly enjoys what they do.

In its second full season downtown, 113 Main has established itself as a steady presence in Sandpoint’s dining scene. Since Trinity closed its doors, it has become a natural gathering place, building its own identity around craftsmanship, consistency, and connection.

Looking ahead, Justin and his team are focused on continuing to evolve. The menu will keep shifting with the seasons, drawing from the best of the Inland Northwest. It’s a place built on care and community, where good food, cocktails, and people come together in a way that captures the true character of Sandpoint.

TWO SEVEN PUBLIC HOUSE

SPOKANE WASHINGTON WASHINGTON

Eating out in Spokane, you can get creative or keep it familiar, knowing that either choice will come out right. Kitchens pay attention, menus shift with the season, and the best spots balance energy with consistency. In this city, the promise of good food holds up night after night.

MAX at Mirabeau Park Hotel in Spokane Valley

Dining, gatherings, and celebrations done right for over 20 years

Where the Locals Go: Moon Time, The Porch, The Elk, Two Seven, and El Que

A family of local restaurants built on comfort, quality, and connection

MAX at Mirabeau

Park Hotel in Spokane Valley

Dining, gatherings, and celebrations done right for over 20 years

For more than two decades, MAX at Mirabeau has stood as the cornerstone of the Valley’s dining scene, where locals meet, businesses connect, anniversaries are toasted, and traditions take shape around a table. Located inside the Mirabeau Park Hotel, it continues to set the standard for quality dining and genuine hospitality in the Inland Northwest.

Every detail inside the restaurant reflects a balance of comfort and sophistication. The menu is built around scratch-made dishes crafted

with locally sourced ingredients, from hand-carved USDA prime beef to house-made sauces and fresh-baked desserts. A carefully curated wine list (recognized by Wine Spectator) underscores its reputation for excellence and its commitment to pairing great food with memorable moments.

Open daily (6 am to 10 pm Sunday through Thursday, 6 am to 11 pm Friday and Saturday), the 225-seat restaurant stays busy from breakfast through late-night cocktails. The restaurant also accommodates

smaller gatherings, comfortably hosting parties of around 20 guests. Morning guests stop in for signature breakfasts, while evenings highlight scratchmade entrées and wine pairings that showcase the kitchen’s attention to detail. Consistent craftsmanship and attentive service have made this dining destination a trusted choice for every occasion. The patio is open seasonally, offering an additional option for outdoor dining.

General Manager Andy Rooney credits that success to the people behind the scenes. “Our team is the foundation of everything we do,” he shares. “They’re the reason guests walk away saying, ‘We can’t wait to come back.’” That commitment to hospitality has helped the restaurant maintain its reputation as a reliable gathering place for the community.

In addition to its award-winning restaurant, MAX works closely with the adjoining Mirabeau Park Hotel to host some of the area’s most notable gatherings. With more than 20,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space, it’s a year-round destination for corporate events, weddings, and celebrations. During the holiday season, the hotel’s ballrooms host a steady calendar of company parties and festive gatherings, while seasonal offerings like the Thanksgiving and Christmas buffets and the popular Easter and Mother’s Day brunches have become local traditions drawing guests from across the region. Paired with full-service catering, every event, large or small, is handled with the same attention to detail that defines the restaurant experience.

Inside, the pace is as lively as the menu. Two happy hours run daily (3 to 6 pm and again from 9 pm to close), featuring themed specials that have become weekly traditions: Margarita Monday, Micro Tuesday, Wine Wednesday, Ladies’ Night Thursday, and Martini/Manhattan Friday. The weekend brunch, served from 9 am to 2 pm, is another hallmark of the restaurant, complete with an expanded menu, signature Bloody Mary Bar, and Mimosa specials that have made brunch a weekend tradition.

Community remains central to MAX at Mirabeau’s success. The restaurant hosts its popular First Wednesday series each month, featuring regional artists and wineries alongside complimentary hors d’oeuvres and exclusive menu items. These events reflect what it does best: bringing people together through food, conversation, and connection.

Beyond the dining room, the team proudly supports local organizations and events that enrich the area. Partnerships with Spokane Valley Summer Theater, HUB Sports Center, the Central Valley School District, and local service clubs reflect an ongoing dedication to giving back to the community that has supported them for so many years.

As MAX at Mirabeau continues to evolve, its mission remains clear: to deliver exceptional food, service, and atmosphere that elevate every occasion. It stands as the Valley’s gathering place and a trusted destination where excellence is the standard.

full bar catering

WHERE GO the locals

MOON TIME, THE PORCH, THE ELK, TWO SEVEN, & EL QUE

Across Coeur d’Alene, Hayden Lake, and Spokane, certain restaurants become part of the rhythm of everyday life, shaped as much by the people inside them as the food coming out of the kitchen. Inside, there’s the low hum of conversation, the smell of a meal cooking from scratch, and the comfort of knowing you’ll probably see a familiar face. Together, Moon Time, The Porch, The Elk, Two Seven, and El Que form a family of neighborhood restaurants built by longtime friends John Grollmus and Brad Fosseen.

Their restaurants share more than a name on the door. Each one feels personal, shaped by years of consistency and care. “We focus on doing what we do well—serving good food, providing good service, and making sure our guests feel welcome,” says John Grollmus. Walk into Moon Time in downtown Coeur d’Alene, and you’ll see the rhythm of a well-loved local spot: regulars at the bar, a server who remembers the order, and plates that come out just right every time. The Porch, tucked near the Hayden Lake Country Club, brings that same balance of quality and comfort to a setting that feels like an escape without leaving town. A covered porch overlooks the golf course, and inside, the atmosphere stays relaxed and steady.

In Spokane, The Elk in Browne’s Addition still buzzes with the energy that’s kept it full for decades. Set among old brick buildings and tree-lined streets, it remains a neighborhood staple where weekend crowds spill onto the patio when the weather turns warm. Two Seven on the South Hill carries that same tone in its own way, situated off Mount Vernon Street with the quiet draw of a local favorite. The lighting’s low, the music fits, and customers settle in without rushing, often greeted by staff who know them by name. El Que, the smallest of the group, might just be the most surprising. Its compact footprint on Cannon Street carries its own pulse—fast, bright, and familiar—offering tequila, tacos, and conversation in a space built on full tables, steady rhythm, and staff who move like they’ve done it a thousand times.

A FAMILY OF LOCAL RESTAURANTS BUILT ON COMFORT, QUALITY, AND CONNECTION

by LIKE MEDIA TEAM

Every restaurant serves a slightly different crowd, yet the experience stays unmistakably theirs. What ties them together isn’t a slogan or a trend; it’s the everyday commitment to doing the work right. Consistency lives in the prep lists taped to the walls and the crews who never miss a step.

In every kitchen, sauces start from scratch, meats are trimmed and roasted in-house, and familiar faces greet guests year after year. Chef and manager Chris Schultz has been with Moon Time since the doors opened, while Kevin Russell leads Two Seven’s kitchen after decades with the team. At Moon Time, Lark Patton runs the bar with the same precision that built her reputation on the floor, and Marshall Powell keeps Two Seven steady as general manager. That consistency across kitchens is what keeps guests coming back.

Patios fill in the warmer months, while inside, guests settle into booths, trade stories, and order another round. Each location keeps a lineup of regional beers on tap, along with cocktails and local wines that match the menu’s comfort-driven style. Menu staples like the Reuben, Santa Fe Chicken Sandwich, and the famous corn pasta stay in regular rotation for a reason. It’s honest work that continues to speak for itself.

After nearly three decades, John and Brad still spend time in each restaurant, checking in, listening, and making sure each shift runs the way it should. “It’s been about building places where people feel comfortable,” says Brad Fosseen. “That’s always been the goal.” Their focus hasn’t changed: keep standards high and doors open.

In a world where restaurants come and go, theirs have become something else entirely: a constant. A collection of tables where strangers become regulars, employees become friends, and every meal is another reminder of why we gather.

Fairways & Forks

The Inland Northwest’s golf courses are becoming dining destinations beyond the game

by LIKE MEDIA TEAM

The best patio in Post Falls sits beside a fairway. One of the strongest pub menus in Hayden does too. And one of the most striking dining rooms near Coeur d’Alene? Just off the back nine. Golf course restaurants across North Idaho and into Spokane have quietly become some of the most interesting places to eat in the region. No tee time required. Just an appetite.

What makes them worth the trip goes beyond the view. These are real kitchens with executive chefs building seasonal menus. Bar menus that go well beyond draft beer and well whiskey. Patios and dining rooms built around scenery that no city restaurant can replicate. The food holds up, and the backdrop does the rest.

MORE THAN THE 19TH HOLE

Golf courses across North Idaho and into Spokane have always had one advantage: the setting. Towering pines. Rolling fairways that drop toward lakes and rivers. Mountain ridgelines that catch the lateafternoon light. The kind of scenery that makes a round worth playing, no matter the score.

But these courses have grown into more than just a place to play eighteen holes. Fitness centers, event spaces, hotel suites, simulators, lake access, wellness programs. The course is the anchor, but the experience around it has expanded. At the center of that expansion is the kitchen. Stronger menus. More intentional ingredients. Dining spaces designed with the same care as the menu. A handful of restaurants across the region have earned their place alongside the best spots in town, with a backdrop nobody else can compete with.

DINING WHERE THE VIEW COMES FIRST

In this corner of the Northwest, the view shapes the meal. Whether it’s water views near Lake Coeur d’Alene or mountain backdrops farther north, these restaurants know how to make the most of their surroundings. Large patios. Fire pits. Expansive windows that pull the outdoors inside. Every seat is placed with the sightline in mind.

The first thing that stands out isn’t the menu. It’s the green. The treeline. The light across the fairway. Then the food arrives, and it matches. That connection between place and plate keeps people coming back, round after round, season after season.

NOT JUST FOR GOLFERS

What’s changed most about these courses is who’s showing up. Families celebrating birthdays. Colleagues meeting for happy hour. Couples looking for a scenic summer date night without the downtown parking hassle. Regulars who come every week and have never stepped on the course.

Whether it’s a private club building a lifestyle around its membership or a public course that’s become the neighborhood’s

CDA NATIONAL RESERVE

Coeur d’Alene

A private golf and sporting club set on 1,000 acres above Lake Coeur d’Alene. The Tom Weiskopf-designed 18-hole championship course winds through towering pines, native grasslands, and expansive lake views. Members also enjoy a 20,000-square-foot clubhouse, lakehouse, fitness complex, and miles of trails.

EMMA’S AT PRAIRIE FALLS GOLF CLUB

Post Falls

Open to the public, Emma’s is the on-site restaurant and bar inside The Club at Prairie Falls. Patio seating overlooks the course with mountain and fountain views. The club also offers 17 hotel suites, virtual golf simulators, and a 5,000-square-foot event center.

| 208.664.8088 THE CLUBHOUSE RESTAURANT AT THE IDAHO CLUB Sandpoint

Open to the public, The Clubhouse Restaurant sits on a Jack Nicklaus signature course along the Pack River. The mountain-modern clubhouse features a 2,500-squarefoot dining area and a 3,000-square-foot al fresco patio with views of the river, the surrounding mountains, and occasional wildlife.

go-to dinner spot, the draw is the same. People come for the food and the setting, not the scorecard. That shift is what’s turned clubhouse kitchens from afterthoughts into real gathering spots, places where the community shows up because the experience makes the drive worth the trip.

SUMMER ON THE FAIRWAY

Golf season dining has its own rhythm. Post-round tables fill up around five o’clock. Weekend brunches that stretch past noon. Twilight dinners carry into late North Idaho sunsets while the kitchen keeps plates moving and glasses clinking.

Summer is when these patios earn their reputation. Seasonal menus lean into what’s fresh and local. The pace slows. Evenings stretch longer. Whether the afternoon was spent on the course or you simply showed up hungry, the meal hits the same.

As the seasons turn, the best of these spots shift into fireside dining, proving they hold their own year-round.

A TABLE WORTH THE DRIVE

From Sandpoint to Post Falls, North Idaho’s clubhouse restaurants have figured out something simple. Great food hits differently in the right setting. The afterthought era is over. What used to be the 19th hole is now the destination. Across the Inland Northwest, more course kitchens are following suit, raising the bar for what a

A GALLERY BORN FROM GRIT

One woman’s rebellion, refuge, and rising impact in a tiny Idaho town

Teascarlet Fine Art isn’t just a gallery. It’s the result of one woman deciding to build a life on her own terms.

When Hannah first started pursuing a full-time living as an artist, she believed she'd need New York galleries and Paris exhibitions. So she went after them and reached them. But while still pursuing the international art world, she noticed a little building for lease in downtown Bonners Ferry, the town where she’s lived for 21 years and raised her kids.

An art gallery here? She knew it was crazy, but she went for it anyway. Art was once her lifeline, then her rebellion, and now it’s the way she’s connecting an entire community.

Inside her studio gallery, you’ll find abstracts that make you feel something, flowers that seem to breathe, and tree paintings that connect people to the landscape they love.

Step outside, and her creative impact stretches even further–events like Chalk the Block, a sidewalk art festival that brings out hundreds of people, all ages, all creating together.

Hannah is making North Idaho (and beyond) a little more beautiful–one brushstroke, one connection, one hell-yes decision at a time.

If you haven’t visited yet, what are you waiting for?

Seeing art in person is always the best! But you can also check it out at Teascarlet.com.

HOUSE WE Live in the

A walk through the rooms of the Inland Northwest by LIKE MEDIA TEAM

Summer Here

This summer, discover the perfect blend of style, flavor and fun at River Park Square. Shop favorite names like Nordstrom, lululemon, Nike, Gene Juarez Salon & Spa, LEGO and Apple while you grab a bite and enjoy the vibe.

Pop-up performances, family-friendly activities and events are happening all summer long. There’s always something new to experience—whether you are visiting for the first time or a local fan soaking up all the season has to offer.

The Inland Northwest is a house.

It has rooms you use every day and rooms you forget until you need them. It has a front door, a back door, and a porch where everyone ends up sooner or later. It has a kitchen that opens before sunrise and a den that closes after dark. It has hallways that connect the rooms in ways you stopped noticing years ago.

You live in this house. You did not build it. You inherited it the way most people inherit the place they call home, through the slow accumulation of mornings, conversations, celebrations, and ordinary days spent inside it.

The kitchen is at Terre Coffee & Bakery in Coeur d'Alene. It is also at Twenty-Seventh Heaven in Spokane, where the ovens are already warming before the city is fully awake. It is at Evans Brothers Coffee in Sandpoint. The kitchen is the first room awake and the last to truly rest. It's where the day begins, before the lights come on elsewhere in the house. Someone is always there – baking, brewing, preparing. You have never opened the door and found it dark. The work started long before you arrived.

The library is Wishing Tree Books in Spokane. The library is a quiet room. The bookseller in the library knows you. She remembers what you liked last time. She has set aside a book for you that you did not ask for and will not stop thinking about once you read it. Every house needs a library. Not because of the books. Because of the person.

The wardrobe is The Dressing Room in Bonners Ferry. The wardrobe is well-lit and has the right mirror. The owner is also the person who picks the clothes, sees what works, and tells you the truth. There is no algorithm in this room. There is only an eye, trained over years, that knows what fits before you try it on. You leave with the right thing. The right thing is rarely what you came in for.

The recovery room is Upgrade Labs in Coeur d’Alene. Every house needs one: a space dedicated to repair and renewal, where the body comes to be restored. The technician knows your history, including the shoulder that's been bothering you for months. They also know when it isn't a day for conversation. So the room stays quiet, and the rebuilding happens without a word.

The mudroom is the hardware store in Post Falls, where things get fixed. The clerk in the mudroom does not let you guess. He walks you down the aisle. He explains what broke and why. He sends you home with the part and the knowledge. The next time it breaks, you will fix it yourself and think of him while you do it.

The pantry is the grocery store in Spokane Valley. It's where the essentials are kept close at hand and where unexpected discoveries find their way home. The grocer can source the cut you requested, and better yet, they remember the cut you asked for last time. The pantry quietly supports everything else that happens within the home. Few rooms are more important.

The studio is CdA Power Yoga in Coeur d'Alene. The studio has been open since 2018 and the regulars show it. The same people on the same mats, multiple days a week, some of them for years. Some are friends. Some have never spoken outside this room. All of them know each other's rhythm by now. Power Flow on Monday. Slow Flow on Wednesday. The 26/2 series on Saturday, the same 26 postures in the same sequence, building the same way every time. The studio is a quiet room and a loud one. It is where the body is worked and the friendships are kept up.

The dining room is at Vieux Carré NOLA Kitchen in Spokane’s West Central. The dining room is where the family gathers, though the people around the table are not necessarily related. It is the same Friday night group claiming the same table month after month. The order rarely changes. Most weeks, this is where the house feels most alive.

The den is Atticus Coffee in downtown Spokane. The den is where you read in the afternoon. The den is where the architect sketches on a napkin while waiting for the contractor. The den is the second life of a coffee shop that has been a coffee shop all day, becoming something

else by evening. Every house needs a den. The den is where the day slows down.

The porch is MickDuff’s Brewing Company in Sandpoint. The porch is the last room of the day. It is where the same beer gets poured for the same person who has been ordering it for six years. The porch is where conversations end. The porch is the room with the soft lights, and the lights stay on a little longer than they should, and nobody minds.

The living room is Sandpoint Furniture. The living room sets the tone for the rest of the house. The salesperson knows the sofa you bought three years ago. He asks how it is holding up before he asks what brought you in. The living room is a slow room. The living room is the room you furnish once and live with for a decade.

These are the rooms. Not all of them – there are always more. There is the florist who keeps the conservatory in bloom. There is the dance school in Spokane Valley, the practice room where repetition becomes mastery. There's the small clinic that acts as a sickroom when care is needed, the framer who tends the gallery walls, and the music shop, where every shelf holds a memory and every record waits for its turn.

Add them up, and you have a house – along with a way of living that becomes harder to find when local rooms give way to national brands and every kitchen, pantry, gallery and conservatory begins to look the same.

The thing about a house is that you can lose it one room at a time and not notice until the house is empty. The kitchen closes. The library

shuts down. The wardrobe moves online. The grocer is bought out. The mudroom becomes a website. The studio cannot make rent. The dining room turns into a parking lot. The den is replaced by a place that does not let you stay. The porch goes dark.

Each room, on its own, is a small loss. On its own, it can be replaced by something cheaper, faster, or further away. Together, they are the house you live in.

The house is still standing.

The kitchen is open. The library is open. The wardrobe is open. The recovery room, the mudroom, the pantry, the studio, the dining room, the den, the porch, the living room, all open. The lights are on. Someone is in every room.

You did not build this house. You inherited it.

Others have kept it standing long enough for you to walk through the door.

Walk through the rooms this week. Stand in the kitchen at six. Sit in the den at three. Eat in the dining room on Friday. Buy the book that the bookseller saved for you. Try on the piece the owner pulled for you. Order the beer on the porch.

The house stays a house because people choose to occupy it, day after day.

Live in it.

LIKE MEDIA TEAM

THE NEAR-Enough ESCAPE

FOUR DIRECTIONS. NO PASSPORT REQUIRED.

The Inland Northwest covers a lot of ground. Mountains and wheat fields, deep lakes and open sky, river towns that have been running on their own clock for over a century. Much of it sits within a few hours of home. Four directions. Four destinations. All of them worth the drive.

NORTH IDAHO | BONNER COUNTY

Priest Lake sits 92 miles north of Spokane and 62 miles northwest of Sandpoint, past Priest River, at the end of a road that gets quieter the farther it goes. The lake itself covers more than 23,000 acres, backed by the Selkirk Mountains on three sides and the Canadian border to the north. The shoreline runs more than 80 miles, with seven islands and water clear enough to see the bottom well into summer.

Priest Lake State Park anchors the Indian Creek area with 93 campsites, six cabins, and a wide sandy beach. Boating, fishing for Mackinaw and cutthroat trout, and kayaking fill most of the daylight hours before the shoreline settles into campfires and quiet. For those who want to go further, a 2.5-mile thoroughfare connects the

main lake to the remote Upper Priest Lake, a three-milelong backcountry lake accessible only by boat or trail. The Navigation Trail runs 8.1 miles through old-growth hemlock and white pine to reach it. The entire Upper Priest Lake shoreline is publicly owned and managed as a scenic area by the State of Idaho and the U.S. Forest Service. No private development. No built-up infrastructure.

Plowboy Campground sits on the southwest shore of Upper Priest Lake, reachable by boat or by the Navigation Trail. Five campsites sit near the water’s edge, furnished with picnic tables, bear-proof storage boxes, and fire rings. It is primitive, quiet, and far from the busier rhythm of the main lake.

48° N, 117°″ W

116° W

Wallace sits on I-90 in the Silver Valley, small enough to cover on foot in an afternoon and specific enough to stay with you longer. The town is known for having its historic downtown listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with a commercial core that still feels remarkably intact. Brick storefronts, original signage, and a mountain backdrop that closes off the end of every street.

The history here is documented and deep. The Coeur d'Alene Mining District surrounding Wallace produced more than 1.2 billion ounces of silver, and the Wallace District Mining Museum and the Sierra Silver Mine Tour allow visitors to experience that legacy firsthand. The Sierra tour departs from downtown on a San Francisco-style streetcar, travels to a historic silver mine, and runs underground. The Route of the Hiawatha, east of Wallace near the Montana border, converts a former railroad corridor into 15 miles of trail through the Bitterroot Mountains, where riders move from open trestles into long, cold tunnels that cut through the mountain. The longest tunnel is more than a mile and a half long.

NORTH IDAHO SHOSHONE COUNTY

46°″N

The Palouse begins south of Spokane and rolls through southeastern Washington and into north-central Idaho in wheat hills that change color with the growing season. Spring turns them green. By late summer, the hills move like wheat-colored waves in the wind before shifting to mauve after the harvest. The geology is wind-deposited loess soil, some of the most productive farmland in the world, shaped into forms that don't resemble anything else in the Pacific Northwest.

Steptoe Butte State Park rises 3,612 feet above the surrounding fields east of Colfax. The butte is ancient quartzite that survived erosion while the softer ground around it wore away. A road runs to the summit, delivering a 360-degree view of the Palouse, stretching to every horizon, with the Selkirks visible to the north on clear days and the Blue

Mountains to the south. The Palouse Scenic Byway covers 208 miles of state highways and rural roads through Pullman, Colfax, the town of Palouse, and Rosalia. Pullman anchors the south end with Ferdinand's Ice Cream Shoppe at Washington State University, which has produced Cougar Gold cheddar in sealed tins since 1948 and remains one of the region’s most enduring and distinctive local specialties.

Palouse Falls State Park sits on the western edge, where the Palouse River drops 198 feet over basalt ledges into a canyon carved during the Ice Age floods. Three viewpoints. In places, little separates the rim from the drop. It’s Washington’s official state waterfall, and one of the few in the region that earns the designation without argument.

Newport is the county seat of Pend Oreille County, 45 miles northeast of Spokane on U.S. Highway 2, where the Pend Oreille River crosses from Idaho into Washington. The river flows north here before eventually reaching the Columbia in British Columbia. From Newport, the Pend Oreille Valley Scenic Byway follows it for 50 miles on Highway 20 through Usk, Cusick, Ione, and Metaline Falls before reaching Tiger. The drive takes an hour without stops – though most travelers find plenty of reasons to slow down along the way.

The byway passes through the Colville National Forest with river access points at regular intervals for fishing, paddling, and quiet stretches along the water. The 70-mile Pend Oreille River Water Trail runs from Oldtown, Idaho, north to Boundary Dam, one mile from the Canadian border, with campgrounds, picnic areas, and access points along the route. Osprey nest on the old log boom pilings that still stand in the river from the valley's timber era, while early morning fog often hangs low across the water. Bald eagles hunt the same water through spring and fall.

Outside Metaline Falls, Gardner Cave – one of Washington’s longest limestone caves – opens for guided tours during the summer months. The Kalispel Tribe's reservation at Usk is home to a herd of buffalo visible from the road. The route stays quiet between Newport and the northern end of the byway. The road follows the river, and the river takes its time.

WASHINGTON | PEND OREILLE COUNTY

Drinks

Food Atmosphere

Seasonal & SharedSimply

Recipes made for the Inland Northwest table

The Inland Northwest growing season is short and specific, which is exactly what makes it so good. Corn and stone fruit arrive in July and peak fast, while September shifts the focus to pears, squash, and root vegetables. The stretch between those seasons is where the best cooking happens. Farmers' markets across the region feel especially abundant at the right moments, and cooking around that rhythm is an experience of its own. This season, shop the markets. Keep the preparation simple. Let the ingredients speak for themselves.

GRILLED STEAK Charred Scallion SALSA VERDE

WITH

Serves

Ingredients

• 2 lbs of steak of your choice

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

Method

Prep Time minutes minutes

Cook Time

6 20 15

Charred Scallion Salsa Verde

• 2 bunches scallions

• 1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, packed

• 2 tbsp capers, drained and roughly chopped

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tsp red wine vinegar

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes

• ½ cup good olive oil

• Kosher salt to taste

• Remove steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking; pat dry and rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

• Heat grill to high; place scallions directly on the grate and char for 4-5 minutes, turning once, until softened and blackened in spots.

• Let scallions cool slightly, then chop roughly and combine with parsley, capers, garlic, red wine vinegar, and red pepper flakes.

• Stir in olive oil and season with salt; set aside at room temperature while the steak cooks.

• Grill steak 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare; rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes.

• Slice the steak thin against the grain, arrange on a platter, and spoon salsa verde over the top before serving.

Serve with grilled bread to soak up the salsa verde.

Shaved Zucchini WITH LEMON, PINE NUTS, AND PECORINO

Serves

4-6

15 Prep Time minutes

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchini, ends trimmed

• 3 tbsp good olive oil

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted

• ½ cup Pecorino Romano, shaved

• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, torn

• Kosher salt and black pepper

Method

• Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, shave zucchini into long, thin ribbons.

• Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest; season with salt and pepper.

• Pour dressing over zucchini and toss gently to coat; let sit for 5 minutes.

• Arrange on a platter, and scatter toasted pine nuts and shaved Pecorino across the top.

• Finish with torn mint leaves and black pepper.

Variation: Add a handful of mixed salad greens underneath the zucchini for more substance.

Brown Sugar PEAR TART WITH ALMOND CREAM

Serves

Ingredients

Tart Shell

• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tbsp powdered sugar

• ¼ tsp kosher salt

• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

• 2-3 tbsp ice water

Topping

Prep Time minutes minutes

Cook Time

8 30 55

Almond Cream

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup sugar

• 1 cup almond flour

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ tsp almond extract

• 3 ripe but firm pears, peeled, cored, and sliced thin

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Method

• Preheat the oven to 375°F.

• Combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt; cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

• Add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together; press evenly into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.

• Freeze the shell for 15 minutes, then blind-bake for 12 minutes, until just set; remove and cool slightly.

• Beat softened butter and sugar until pale; mix in almond flour, eggs, vanilla, and almond extract until smooth.

• Spread almond cream into the cooled shell.

• Arrange pear slices in overlapping rows across the top; brush with melted butter and sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the surface.

• Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the almond cream is set and the pears are golden at the edges; cool at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Make the tart shell and almond cream a day ahead; assemble and bake the day of serving.

S I Z Z

Eats & Drinks

Your one-stop guide to the Inland Northwest's best dining and imbibing

Coeur d’Alene & Surrounding Area

sizzleEats & Drinks

spokane & surrounding area

cochinito taqueria

Visitors can look forward to fresh, delicious cuisine prepared with fine-dining techniques and paired with locally, responsibly sourced seasonal ingredients – all served in a casual atmosphere alongside craft cocktails, spirits, and thoughtfully collected beers. From the fresh-made tortillas and chips, melty queso fundido, and ceviche to a variety of tacos (like the Heritage Duroc Pork Cheek Carnitas, Braised Short Rib Birria, 20Hour Carne Asada, and Fried Maitake Mushroom) served on fresh house-made corn tortillas, guests are in for a treat! Don't forget to order a side of beans, cumin-and-tomato rice, pickled vegetables, or guacamole. Open 11:30 am to 9 pm Monday through Saturday; closed Sunday. Happy hour is offered daily from 3 to 5 pm, with $1 off tacos on Tuesdays from 5 pm to close. Takeout is available, and you can order online. They also offer catering for your next event.

Spokane $-$$ | 10 N. Post St.

509.474.9618 | CochinitoTaqueria.com

EL QUE

Opened behind the Elk Public House in 2001, El Que quickly became a loyal favorite and continues to be more than two decades later, offering traditional Mexican-style street food, inventive cocktails, and house-made tequila infusions. The menu features items such as Banana Leaf Tamales, the Wet Burrito, chili rellenos, and a variety of taco options. Choose to accompany your meal with a delicious cocktail or beer. Open at 3 pm daily.

Spokane $-$$ | 141 S. Cannon St.

509.624.5412 | WeDontHaveOne.com

FLATSTICK PUB

Whether it's a date night, guys’ night, ladies’ night, or a large group event, Flatstick is the best pub experience in Washington for local craft beer, pizza, old-school fun, and memorable moments, including Mini Golf and Duffleboard. Stop in for Happy Hour, 3 to 6 pm Monday through Friday, and enjoy discounts on drinks and pizzas. Minors are welcome until 8 pm daily, except in designated bar seating areas. They’re open daily from 11 am, closing at 11 pm Sunday through Thursday and at 1 am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Spokane $-$$ | 618 W. Main Ave.

509.368.9477 | FlatstickPub.com/Spokane

LATAH CREEK WINE CELLARS

Committed to delighting wine lovers with the best of Washington State while keeping their award-winning wines affordable, Latah Creek delivers a unique experience with every bottle. Sample award-winning and reserve wines in their beautiful tasting room while browsing through one of the most unique gift shops in the area. The winery is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. And don’t forget to join their Wine Club!

Spokane Valley $-$$$ | 13030 E. Indiana Ave.

509.926.0164 | LatahCreek.com

MAC DADDY'S GOURMET GRUB

Located at River Park Square, Mac Daddy's is a family-owned and operated restaurant specializing in mac and cheese, gourmet burgers, and wings. They make their own cheese sauce using 14 different kinds of cheese. Mac Daddy's also specializes in off-site food vending, catering, and events, including fairs and festivals. They’re open daily from noon, closing at 7 pm Sunday through Thursday and at 9 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Spokane $-$$ | 808 W. Main Ave.

509.315.9406 | RiverParkSquare.com/dining

max at mirabeau

Join MAX at Mirabeau for an unforgettable experience. Located in Spokane Valley, you’ll be treated to eclectic cuisine, an award-winning menu with more than 100 items, a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list boasting more than 500 labels, and 75 eclectic cocktails — a perfect match for everything on the menu. Enjoy two happy hours daily, a la carte brunch featuring multiple benedicts, mimosas, and the area’s best Bloody Mary Bar! Open daily starting at 6 am for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night dining, MAX at Mirabeau welcomes guests seven days a week, serving until 10 pm Sunday through Thursday and until 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. MAX at Mirabeau has made a name for itself as Spokane Valley’s premier dining destination year after year.

Spokane Valley $-$$$ | 1100 N. Sullivan Rd. 509.922.6252 | MAXatMirabeau.com

NORDSTROM MARKETPLACE CAFÉ

Open 11 am to 7 pm Monday through Saturday and 11 am to 5 pm Sunday. Nordstrom Marketplace Café invites visitors to River Park Square on a journey through a contemporary food marketplace. This is where the freshest local ingredients make for memorable casual meals during your shopping day at Nordstrom. The café is located on the third level of Nordstrom.

Spokane $-$$

808 W. Main Ave.

509.455.6111 | RiverParkSquare.com/dining

the elk public house

Spokane’s beloved neighborhood restaurant in Historic Browne’s Addition, The Elk Public House, has been a community staple for over two decades. On the menu, you’ll find a great selection of fresh salads, soups, sandwiches, and pastas, all made from scratch. They also offer a large selection of brews, wine by the glass and bottle, and original cocktails. Enjoy it all in the comfortable pubstyle atmosphere. Open daily for lunch and dinner from 11 am to late at night. Visit their website for the menu and current specials. The Elk Public House is the perfect spot to gather any time of year, offering a comfortable setting to enjoy a delicious meal and your favorite brew.

Spokane $-$$ | 1931 W. Pacific Ave. 509.363.1973 | WeDontHaveOne.com

P.F. CHANG'S

Located at River Park Square, P.F. Chang’s offers a modern take on Asian cuisine with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. The menu features iconic dishes like Chang’s Lettuce Wraps, Mongolian Beef, and Kung Pao Chicken, alongside sushi, dim sum, and seasonal specialties. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails, sake, or wine in an elegant setting perfect for lunch, dinner, or date night. Open daily at 11 am for dine-in, takeout, and delivery options, with service until 10 pm Sunday through Thursday and until 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Spokane $-$$$

801 W. Main Ave.

509.456.2166 | RiverParkSquare.com/dining

the two seven public house

At Two Seven in Spokane, you will find a menu featuring fresh salads like the Southwestern Taco or Greek Chickpea; burgers, wraps, and sandwiches (think Cuban Pork, Philly Cheese Steak, and Buffalo Chicken); and house specialties including the Pork Chop Marsala. They offer a great selection of microbrewed beers, wines by the glass, and freshly squeezed juice cocktails to pair with your meal, all served by friendly and experienced staff in a comfortable pub-style atmosphere. Open for lunch and dinner 11 am daily until late at night.

Spokane $-$$ | 2727 S. Mount Vernon St., Ste. 5 509.473.9766 | WeDontHaveOne.com

SHIKI HIBACHI SUSHI

Located in River Park Square, Shiki Hibachi Sushi combines the excitement of hibachi grilling with the freshness of sushi in one vibrant setting. Watch chefs prepare sizzling dishes tableside or choose from a wide selection of rolls, nigiri, and Japanese entrées. Favorites include the Shiki Roll, teriyaki bowls, and steak or seafood hibachi dinners. Pair your meal with sake or a cocktail from the full bar. Open daily for lunch and dinner, with hours varying. Visit ShikiHibachiSushi.com for current hours.

Spokane $-$$$

808 W. Main Ave.

509.621.0333 | ShikiHibachiSushi.com

vieux carré nola kitchen

Vieux Carré brings the New Orleans experience to Spokane with authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine, combining elements of French and Spanish cuisine. With offerings such as crawfish, hushpuppies, gumbo, jambalaya, bread pudding, and beignets, Vieux Carré will ensure that you satiate your Cajun cravings while out with friends, family, or that significant other. In addition to the food, they boast a robust cocktail, wine, and beer menu, complete with New Orleans classics like the Mint Julep, Ramos Gin Fizz, and, of course, The Vieux Carré! Open for lunch and dinner daily starting at 11 am, with Sunday brunch beginning at 9 am.

Spokane $$-$$$ | 1403 W. Broadway Ave. 509.495.1400 | VieuxCarreSpokane.com

TWIGS BISTRO & MARTINI BAR

Prepare for a unique dining experience that is casual yet memorable. Twigs Bistro & Martini in Spokane's River Park Square has created the perfect ambiance, designed to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere. From pizza and pasta to burgers and beyond, their menu will tantalize every palate. Pair your meal with one of 36 signature martinis to complete the experience. Open daily from 11 am, closing at 9 pm Sunday through Wednesday, 10 pm on Thursday, and 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Happy Hour runs daily from 3 to 6 pm, with late-night Happy Hour Thursday through Saturday from 9 pm to close.

Spokane $$-$$$

808 W. Main Ave.

509.232.3376 | TwigsBistro.com

coeur d'alene & surrounding area

angelo’s ristorante

Angelo’s Ristorante is a beloved spot for authentic Italian dining in a cozy, romantic setting. Their menu features fresh, hand-crafted dishes, including veal, steak, chicken, seafood, pasta, and gluten-free options, all made with organic ingredients. Guests can also enjoy an extensive wine selection to complement their meal. Angelo’s is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 4 to 9 pm, offering a perfect venue for a memorable evening. In addition to their dine-in service, Chef Angelo provides catering for events of any size, ensuring the same high-quality Italian cuisine for your special occasions. Visit Angelo’s for an unforgettable dining experience!

Coeur d’Alene $$-$$$ | 846 N. Fourth St. 208.765.2850 | AngelosRistorante.net

Coeur d’Alene $$-$$$ 846 N. Fourth St. 208.765.2850 | AngelosRistorante.net

COCHINITO TAQUERIA

Cochinito Taqueria, now open in Hayden, brings its Spokane-born flavor north, focusing on chef-driven Mexican street food. The menu features slow-roasted meats, handmade tortillas, and inventive tacos, including pork shoulder carnitas and sweet potato tacos with peanut salsa. Pair your meal with a craft cocktail or local beer for the full experience. With a stylish, laidback vibe, it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or happy hour. Open Tuesday through Friday at 11:30 am and Saturday and Sunday at 11 am, with service running until 9 pm each day. Closed on Mondays.

Hayden $-$$ | 9426 N. Government Way 208.518.1517 | CochinitoTaqueria.com

CRAFTED TAP HOUSE & KITCHEN

Located in the heart of downtown Coeur d’Alene, Crafted Tap House & Kitchen combines a rustic-industrial vibe with bold, scratch-made food and an extensive tap list. The menu features elevated pub fare like gourmet burgers, Korean fried chicken, duck fat fries, and inventive vegetarian options. With over 60 rotating beers on tap and creative cocktails, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy lively indoor seating or relax on the patio. Open daily for lunch, dinner, and drinks, with hours from 11 am to 10 pm Sunday through Thursday and until 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Coeur d'Alene $-$$ | 523 Sherman Ave. 208.292.4813 | CraftedTapHouse.com

FIRE ARTISAN PIZZA

Located in downtown Coeur d’Alene, Fire Artisan Pizza brings a modern twist to traditional wood-fired pizza. With a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavor combinations, the menu features creative pies, such as the Thai-GRRRR, The Beard of Zeus, and Margherita, along with shareable starters and craft cocktails. The open kitchen and stylish atmosphere make it perfect for a casual lunch or lively dinner out. Open every day from 11 am to 10 pm.

Coeur d'Alene $$ | 517 Sherman Ave. 208.667.1541 | FireArtisanPizza.com

ROGER'S ICE CREAM & BURGERS

A North Idaho staple since 1940, Roger’s Ice Cream & Burgers serves up classic American favorites across three locations in Post Falls, Coeur d’Alene, and Hayden. Famous for their juicy burgers, hand-cut fries, and over 20 flavors of creamy, old-fashioned ice cream, Roger’s delivers nostalgia with every bite. Whether you're grabbing a shake on a summer day or enjoying a cheeseburger with friends, Roger’s is a local go-to. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

$-$$$

Post Falls: 403 N. Spokane St. | 208.773.6532

Coeur d'Alene: 1224 Sherman Ave. | 208.930.4900

Hayden: 8833 Hess St. | 208.772.6205

RogersIceCreamBurgers.com

moon time

Established in 1996, Moon Time has become a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike. Open daily, this pub-style spot serves some of the best food around in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The menu features soups, sandwiches, pastas, salads, and other specialties made from scratch every day, complemented by a fantastic selection of microbrewed beers and fine wines available by the glass or bottle. Open daily at 11 am, Moon Time serves lunch, dinner, and late-night favorites. Visit their website for more details, including the full menu and specials.

Coeur d’Alene $-$$ | 1602 E. Sherman Ave., Ste. 116 208.667.2331 | WeDontHaveOne.com

SWEET LOU’S RESTAURANT AND TAP HOUSE

You’ll be treated to American fare at Sweet Lou’s in downtown Coeur d’Alene. Try the ribs (pork or bison) smoked in-house, and choose from a variety of burgers made from freshly ground top sirloin and topped with decadent eats such as smoked pulled pork, hand-battered onion rings, or fresh jalapeños. And they offer a full bar! Come hungry, stay late, eat well. Open 11 am to 10 pm daily, Sweet Lou’s also provides delivery in Coeur d’Alene. In addition to its Coeur d’Alene location, you can find Sweet Lou’s in Athol and Ponderay.

$-$$

Coeur d’Alene:

601 E. Front Ave., Ste. 101 | 208.667.1170 Athol:

6915 E. Athol Crossing Road | 208.561.9496 SweetLousIdaho.com

the porch public house

A beautiful golf-course view without the cost of joining the country club makes The Porch an ideal setting for a delicious meal any time of year. They offer a full menu of sandwiches, salads, soups, and specialties prepared from scratch without the high price of fine dining; plus the region's finest cocktails, microbrews, and wines to accompany your meal. Feel at home in the comfortable pub-style dining room or the fantastic outdoor dining area during the warmer months. The Porch is open daily year-round, welcoming guests from 11 am and keeping the kitchen cooking late into the evening seven days a week. For more information, including specials, the menu, photos, and directions, please visit their website.

Hayden Lake $-$$ | 1658 E. Miles Ave. 208.772.7711 | WeDontHaveOne.com

THE OVAL OFFICE BISTRO & MARTINI BAR

The Oval Office Bistro & Martini Bar offers a memorable dining experience with globally inspired cuisine and handcrafted martinis. Signature dishes include Chilean sea bass, lamb lollipops, and steak gorgonzola, all made with highquality ingredients. Pair your meal with one of their award-winning martinis or fine wines. Whether it’s date night or happy hour, The Oval Office delivers sophistication with every bite. Open daily from 11 am to 11 pm, Sunday through Thursday, and to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Post Falls $-$$$ | 620 N. Spokane St. 208.777.2102 | WhiteHouseGrill.com

THE WHITE HOUSE GRILL

If you want to feel like you’re in the Mediterranean drinking Ouzo and eating a crazy amount of garlic, just drive to The White House Grill in Post Falls, where owner/chef Raci Erdem has created a oneof-a-kind dining destination here in North Idaho. In addition to the great food, they offer a full bar with 12 beers on tap, a fine scotch list, and seasonal outdoor dining on the patio. Open daily for lunch and dinner, this is a great spot the entire family will enjoy, with hours running from 11 am to 10 pm Sunday through Thursday and until 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Post Falls $-$$ | 712 N. Spokane St. 208.777.9672 | WhiteHouseGrill.com

sandpoint &

113 main

113 Main's cuisine exudes modern scratch American. Everything is made in-house, from the pasta and gnocchi to the beef, vegetable, and chicken stocks. Fresh, in-season vegetables and proteins enable diners to enjoy a menu that changes with the seasons and offers the opportunity to try new dishes. In addition to the beautiful menu, the full-service bar features 113 Main’s bartenders who have created amazing handcrafted cocktails with fresh fruits, house-made simple syrups, freshly squeezed juices, and various garnishes, including candied blood oranges and edible flowers. Open seven days a week, 11 am to 9 pm, for lunch, happy hour, and dinner.

Sandpoint $$-$$$

113 Main St.

208.946.5309 | 113MainSandpoint.com

ELKINS RESORT ON PRIEST LAKE

Experience delicious Northwest cuisine with Pacific Rim flair while dining lakeside at Elkins Resort on Priest Lake. Featuring some of the best fare you'll find in the area, join them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and taste why their guests continue to come back year after year. The restaurant’s hours vary seasonally, with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bar service offered during peak periods. Reservations may be made through OpenTable or by calling directly.

Priest Lake $$-$$$ | 404 Elkins Rd. 208.443.2432 | ElkinsResort.com/dining

PURCELL MOUNTAIN FARMS

Located in the scenic foothills above the Kootenai River Valley, Purcell Mountain Farms is your favorite bulk foods store in Bonners Ferry. Familyoperated and proudly based in North Idaho, they offer a wide selection of high-quality beans, grains, lentils, and specialty items sourced from their land and partner farms. With personal attention to every order and products you won’t find in most local stores, their online farm store brings wholesome ingredients right to your door.

$-$$$ 208.267.0627 | PurcellMountainFarms.com

surrounding area

219 lounge

Sandpoint’s historic hometown bar since 1934, you’ll find a friendly atmosphere with folks from all walks of life at the “Niner.” At this full-service bar, you’ll be treated to exceptionally skilled bartenders serving up classic cocktails, 20 craft beers on tap, and a unique wine list. Relax and unwind with entertainment, including pool, foosball, live music, and more. They’re open from 11 am to midnight Sunday through Thursday, and from 11 am to 2 am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Sandpoint $-$$

219 N. First Ave.

208.263.5673 | 219Lounge.com

SWEET LOU’S RESTAURANT & BAR

Enjoy home-style comfort food made with high-quality ingredients at Sweet Lou’s. You’ll be treated to amazing burgers, beer-battered onion rings, hand-cut top sirloin, and more, including the crowd favorite— Grilled PB&J with locally made huckleberry jam and bacon. There is also a full bar featuring more than a dozen draft beers. And don’t forget — 20 4K TVs are onsite for watching the game! Open daily for lunch, dinner, and drinks from 11 am to 10 pm, with online ordering available. Check out Sweet Lou’s Coeur d’Alene and Athol locations as well.

Ponderay $-$$ | 477272 Highway 95 208.263.1381 | SweetLousIdaho.com

JALAPEÑOS

For the past three decades, Jalapeños has prided itself on being Sandpoint’s casual neighborhood Mexican restaurant. It is the perfect place for families and friends to gather and enjoy a great meal at incredible prices while supporting a longtime, locally owned business. Whether you choose the 7B Nachos or Street Tacos, Deep Fried Avocado, Beer-Battered Fish Taco, Chili Verde, or Spinach Enchiladas (or any of their other delicious menu items), you can’t go wrong. You may want to opt for a combo platter. Complement your meal with a drink from the full bar. They’re open 11 am to 8 pm Sunday through Tuesday and Thursday, 11 am to 8:30 pm Friday and Saturday, and closed Wednesday.

Sandpoint $-$$ | 314 N. Second Ave. 208.263.2995 | SandpointJalapenos.com

Final Thoughts

This issue came together through the talents of talented people, hard work, and creativity. And yes, a little artificial intelligence.

AI is changing everything. The way we work. The way we search. The way we communicate. Used wisely, it can make us more efficient, more informed, and more productive than ever.

But it can't replace what matters most.

It can't take your daughter fishing. It can't sit around a campfire with friends. It can't laugh until your stomach hurts at a family barbecue. It can't hold your spouse's hand on an evening walk. It can't coach Little League or cheer from the sidelines. It can't watch the sunset paint the mountains in colors no screen will ever capture.

Technology is a wonderful servant, but a terrible master.

As summer gives way to fall, the greatest luxury isn't another upgrade, notification, or productivity hack. It's permission to unplug.

Declutter the calendar. Turn off the phone. Close the laptop. Leave work at work. Step outside.

The Northwest has always understood something the rest of the world is trying to remember: life is meant to be lived, not simply consumed. The lake doesn't care how many emails you've answered. The trail doesn't ask how many followers you have. The people you love won't remember how fast you answered a text. They'll remember whether you were there.

Use AI. Embrace innovation. Build the business. Dream big. Then come home.

Go outside. Take the boat ride. Sit on the back porch long after the sun goes down. Listen to your kids tell stories that wander nowhere. And thank God for the blessing of living where we live.

Because someday, none of us will wish we'd answered one more email or returned one more text.

But we'll all wish for one more summer evening with the people we love.

See you this fall.

Publisher, REAL Northwest Living

474 Granite Ridge Rd. E, Sandpoint, Idaho

Set behind a gated entrance at the base of Schweitzer Mountain, this nearly 6-acre estate spans three separate lots and centers around a private 1-acre pond with two docks for year-round recreation. The 3,454 sq ft home offers primarily single-level living with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and high-end ﬁnishes throughout. Designed for entertaining, the property features expansive covered outdoor living spaces, a 4car attached garage, and a 24’ x 64’ RV garage with full hookups, bathroom, and laundry. An upstairs bonus room is preplumbed for a future guest suite or ADU. Just minutes from downtown Sandpoint, this is a truly one-of-a-kind Schweitzerarea retreat.

Known for her strategic marketing, exceptional communication, and hands-on approach, Whitney helps homeowners maximize their property's value through professional staging guidance, pre-listing preparation, cinematic videography, targeted digital advertising, and highquality print marketing. Whether wo with ﬁrst-time sellers or owners of luxur properties, Whitney is committed to delivering a smooth experience, expert guidance, and outstanding results from start to ﬁnish.

To View This Home and More North Idaho Properties, Scan the QR Code Below.

your new favorite Bulk Foods Store

Purcell Mountain Farms is family-operated and located on one of the high benches above the Kootenai River Valley at the foothills of the Purcell Mountain Range, in the Northeastern-most part of Idaho.

Our mission is to provide our customers with the best selection of highquality products. That’s why we partner with multiple farms to bring you bulk foods and ingredients you won’t often find in your local store.

diverse modern classic

ERIC HEDLUND DESIGN | ARCHITECTURE

COEUR D’ ALENE I SCHWEITZER I SILICON VALLEY

REAL Northwest Living | Summer/Fall 2026 | Porch

FAIRWAYS AND forks

NORTHWEST LIVING

diverse modern classic

FEATURED CONTENT

22 WHERE THE GOOD LIFE TAKES ROOT

THE LONG GOOD LIFE

130 THE NEAR-ENOUGH ESCAPE

YOUR FUTURE DESERVES PROTECTION

ADVERTISING/MARKETING

INLAND NORTHWEST

ADMINISTRATION

MISSION STATEMENT

A letter from our editor

LOFT THIRTY ONE Designs the Entire Experience

Where the Good Life

A home that fits your desired lifestyle

Redefining the Good Life Through Place

Be Ready To Bedazzled.

Reach downtown on foot in minutes

Location as Lifestyle Infrastructure

and a sense of time, daily wellness, BELONGING

Homes That Work for Daily Life

Buyers Prioritizing Longevity and Livability

Community, Access, and Connection

Real Estate That Ages Well

Building on the

Marks Ranch Legacy

A North Idaho community shaped by the land it stands on

Shaping Spaces in Stone

MEASURED IN Eighths

SEPARATING GOOD WORK FROM AVERAGE

STRAIGHT LINES

The Finish Carpenters Are Problem Solvers

THE CHANGE IS practical

Seeing What Is Possible

What Actually Separates the Best Work

Legacy of Timeless ARCHITECTURE

Northwest Custom Homes Inc. sets a

Built on discipline, durability, and longevity

where life happens at home

What Works Here

Plants That Earn Their Keep

Spaces Built for Four Seasons

Five Small Choices, Big Impact

in motion SUMMER & FALL

SEASONAL ADVENTURES, EVENTS, AND LOCAL FAVORITES ACROSS THE REGION

NATURAL BEAUTY IN OUR BACKYARD Trails, Hikes & Scenic Escapes

SCOTCHMANPEAK

BOWLANDPITCHER

ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & CULTURE

Concerts, Festivals & Downtown Energy

2026

EVE

NTS

JUNE-NOV.

25

SANDPOINT SUMMER SAMPLER

CAR D’LANE CLASSIC CAR WEEKEND SPOKANE HOOPFEST

BASEBALL FAMILY FUN! Homestands

BLESSING IN DISGUISE MUSIC FESTIVAL

ART ON THE GREEN

NORTH IDAHO STATE FAIR

FALL FEST AT SCHWEITZER

SPOKANE COUNTY INTERSTATE FAIR

SCARYWOOD HAUNTED NIGHTS

17

HARVEST FEST & APPLE PALOOZA

HALLOWEEN HUSTLE

WINES FOR THE HOLIDAYS

HUFFIN’ FOR THE STUFFIN’ TURKEY TROT

LIGHTING CEREMONY, PARADE & FIREWORKS

The Adventure

Lifetime

Cornerstone Urgent Care & Family Medicine

Expanding care for Bonners Ferry’s littlest patients

The Long Good Life

WITHOUT INTERVENTION, ADULTS LOSE THREE TO EIGHT PERCENT OF MUSCLE MASS PER DECADE

sleep, metabolic health, stress regulation

What used to be niche is now accessible.