LCHS Spring Craft & Garden Show

Support Lake City High School on Saturday, March 15th from 9am - 4pm as 95 artists and vendors from Idaho, Washington and Montana gather for the 6th Annual Spring Craft and Garden Show. Enjoy the entertainment, hourly raffles, concession and bake sale for just a $1 admission fee. Proceeds will benefit the 2008 Senior Class drug free party on graduation night. For more information, contact Kathy Lieggi at 664-1585.

Vote for "The Best of North Idaho"

Sunday, March 2nd is the last day people can vote for the Best of North Idaho, brought to you by the North Idaho Business Journal. If you haven t heard of it, please check it out, at www.NIBusinessJournal.com

Voting is at the top banner "Click to Vote!"

New York Times Features Rocky Mountain Region

In a recent article, The New York Times discusses the recent economic trends that once boosted the state of Utah and are now raising some concerns. Within the article, the author compares Utah's demographics and economic trends to neighboring states like Montana and Idaho. Because of its unique demographic traits, Utah's economy relies the least on retirees compared to its neighbors, Nevada, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado and Arizona. The article specifically mentions Coeur d'Alene as being "remade" by a growing retired population.

To read the entire article, click HERE.

12th Annual Holy Family Catholic School Auction, Dinner and Dance

Join Holy Family Catholic School for their 12th annual event on Saturday, March 8th at the Coeur d'Alene Resort. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and the activities will continue through 1:00 a.m.! Tickets are $50 per person or $400 for a table of eight. Please RSVP by February 29th. Prizes include:

• 8 nights at Ryman's Alaskan Paradise
• Notre Dame football tickets
• One week ski trip to Park City, Utah
• Private hockey lessons with former NHL star Adam Deadmarsh
• and Much more!
  

For more information, contact 765-4327.
This event is brought to you by the Imaging Center at CDA Spine.

Lake City Playhouse presents "Charlotte's Web"

It's Radiant! It's Humble! It's Some Pig! It's Charlotte's Web!
Visit Lake City Playhouse opening night Thursday, February 28th and continuing through Sunday, March 2nd. Show times are 7:30 p.m. except for Sundays, which are 2:00 p.m.
Tickets are $16/adults, $13/seniors/students/military and $10 for children 12 and under.

Visit www.lakecityplayhouse.org for more information.

Prospecting for Gold: How to Find Grants on the Internet

This 4-hour workshop will be held in a computer lab where experienced grant writers Renee Bourque and Janet Bourque will show you how to use a wide variety of Internet-based search tools and databases to find grants. Sources of funding will be identified and you will be shown how to access them. Opportunity to match your project needs with foundations who fund like projects! The workshop is divided into instruction, followed by time for individual search on subscription databases and assistance from the instructors.

WHO: Beginning to advanced proposal writers for non-profit agencies with computer competency.

WHEN: February 29 or March 1, 8:00-12:00

WHERE: North Idaho College Workforce Training Center, 525 W Clearwater Loop, Post Falls, Idaho

WORKSHOP GOAL: Give participants the skills and resources to find and match grant opportunities to their agency’s organization and mission.

OUTCOME: Participants leave with prospecting tools, skills, and funding leads including sources not listed on grant databases.

To download an application, click HERE.

2008 Emerging Housing Trends Program "Workforce and Student Housing"

On Wednesday, March 5th from 8:30 - 11:30 a.m., ULI (Urban Land Institute) Idaho is presenting this program, focusing on approaches in Idaho and other area to respond to the need for workforce and student housing. Attendees will receive a free copy of ULI's publication, "Ten Principles for Developing Affordable Housing".

The program will be held at the Coeur d'Alene Resort. The cost is $25 for ULI Members and $35 for non-ULI Members. YLG Members and students are $15. The event is free for elected officials and the media. A buffet breakfast is included in the cost of registration.

This event is sponsored by Washington Trust Bank, Lake City Development Corporation, U.S. Bank, and SRM Development.

To register online, click HERE.
For more information, call 1-800-321-5011 (program #8149-0809)
Complimentary registrations, 208-433-9352

Registration closes March 1st.

Idaho Ranks Second for "Best States for Jobs"

According to a recent article published on MSN Careers, Idaho ranks number 2 in the nation for employment, based off of the current unemployment rate in the state. As stated in the article, Idaho's unemployment rate sits at 3%, compared to the national unemployment rate of 5%, according to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. To read the entire article, click HERE.

Coeur d'Alene Tractor Works to Repair Roof Collapse

This year's snow storm has caused major problems for long-time business owner, John Adams, of Coeur d'Alene Tractor. The large engine shop collapsed due to snow on the roof in early February. As you can see the damage is immense. Three Kubota tractors were in the large engine shop; two being serviced and a brand new Kubota being prepared for delivery to a new owner. Fortunately, all the employees were out of the building and not one was injured.
Both owners, John and Bruce, are working to repair the mess.

Coeur d'Alene Tractor has been a member of the Chamber since 1948 and Mr. Adams has been president of the business since 1967.

The address of Coeur d'Alene Tractor is 1112 W.Appleway, Coeur d'Alene. Their phone number is 208-765-2315.

Help Prevent ID Theft with Free Shredding

ISU Haddock & Associates, in conjunction with United Data Security, is hosting a free shredding day on Friday, February 15th from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Community members are welcome to bring any papers and put them in secured bins that will be emptied at 5:00 p.m. United Data Security is based out of Spokane, WA. All employees are fingerprinted and drug screened to ensure your safety and confidentiality. Help protect yourself, family, and friends from identity theft by taking advantage of this opportunity. For more information about United Data Security, call 866-855-0821.

ISU Haddock & Associates
1311 Northwood Center Court
Located just off Ironwood near Outback
Call 664-9873 for more information

Mardi Gras Jazz and Blues Festival

Don't miss these big events this weekend in Downtown Coeur d'Alene:

February 16th - Kids' Carnival from 10:00 a.m - 3:00 p.m. in the Plaza Shops. Art on the Edge and the Arts and Culture Alliance have teamed up to host a fun-filled day of art and imagination for children of all ages! The carnival will offer kids' art workshops in music, pottery, painting, clowns, theater, and much more! The cost is $5 per child (includes lunch), with scholarships available. For more information, contact Ami Manning at 676-0917 or Tami Wahl at 292-1629.

February 16th - Cajun Cookoff and Street Festival from 6:00 p.m. - midnight. Street musicians, performers, ice sculptures, blues, jazz and tantalizing treats prepared by local chefs. This year's Cajun Cookoff and Street festival will be held in conjunction with the Mardi Gras Jazz and Blues Festival. All proceeds go to support Art on the Edge, St. Vincent de Paul's children's art program. Tickets can be purchased at St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store on 108 E. Walnut, the Coeur d'Alene Resort, or at www.artontheedge.org/marti. Tickets are $45 in advance and $50 at the door. For more information, contact Ami Manning at 676-0917 or aoedirector@gmail.com.

STCU Presents Financial Workshop

Mark your calendar for February 26th, 2008 when STCU will be presenting "Financial Fitness 2008". This is a free financial workshop where you will learn tips and ideas to turn around your financial future. Sponsored by STCU Post Falls Branch. Refreshments at 5:00 p.m., workshop from 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. For more information, email Anne Hagman at anneh@stcu.org or by calling 208-619-4027.

Winter Celebrations Going on this Weekend

With the record snowfalls this winter season, take advantage of some of the winter festivals going on this weekend:

Kootenai County Fairgrounds will be having its Winter Festival Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The hours are Friday, Noon to 10 p.m., Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The festival features many activities, including sleigh rides, an indoor skating rink, climbing wall, live music, and snowboard exhibitions. Visit www.northidahowinterfestival.com for more details.

Lookout Pass is also hosting The Winter Games of Idaho this weekend. On Saturday, the event is "Big Air" and on Sunday, "Slopstyle". Both are open to snowboarders and skiiers. Register on the menu option at www.skilookout.com.

Haddock & Associates Announce Staff Additions

Haddock & Associate's Financial Services division welcomes the addition of two new agents. Corey Anderson joined us in December, and specializes in Group Health coverage. Robert Nazemi joined our team in January and brings with him over 10 years experience in Life services. Our Coeur d'Alene office is located at 1311 Northwood Center Court (near the Outback Steakhouse). Please stop by or give us a call at (208) 664-9783.

Lake City Playhouse Announces February Shows

Lake City Playhouse is please to offer a double dose of Nostalgia! Starting February 8th and 9th with those lovable "Projector Sectors" singers from "Forever Plaid" and finishing up with "An Evening of Vaudeville" featuring Michael McGiveney, America's Foremost Quick Change Artist on February 15th and 16th.

Back by popular demand a fresh off a command performance at Centerstage, Lake City's very own Fab Four returns to the Playhouse for what might be the very last time. Awarded the AACT 2007 "Best Community Theatre Production in Idaho", Plaid has played to standing ovations throughout the Northwest. Join Sparky, Smudge, Frankie, and Jinx one last time for an evening of unforgettable music and heart-warming humor.

Both shows start at 7:30 pm with ticket prices being $16 for adults and $13 for seniors, students and military. Call 208-667-1323 for reservations and visit our website www.lakecityplayhouse.org for more information.

Garage Town USA Makes the NY Times

On February 1st, The New York Times featured Garage Town USA in an article that highlighted the company's unique business concept. Garage Town sells self-storage units that often become its own destination for owners. The units are bought and sold like homes and often come with many of the amenities that we have in our homes, like cable, internet and clubhouses. The article interviews Coeur d'Alene residents who have more than a few good things to say about their "home away from home". To read the article, click HERE.

Greenbriar Inn & Catering Announces Winter Cooking Classes

The Greenbriar staff and guest chefs will offer a complete dining and learning experience with their 2008 winter cooking classes. This is a unique opportunity to experience demonstrations with class participation as well as receiving complete recipes and a full dinner. Enjoy wine and beer samplings throughout the class period.

Class Schedule:
6PM Wednesdays/11AM Saturdays

Feb. 13 & 16: Country French Cooking
Feb. 20 & 23: Tapas II
Mar. 5 & 8: Mediterranean Cooking II
Mar. 15 & 26: Low Fat, Low Sugar cooking
Mar. 19 & 22: Southwest & South East Cooking
April Classes: TBA, Private classes by appointment for 10-50 people.

Call for reservations and more information, 208-667-9660 or visit www.greenbriarcatering.com.

Contractors Corner

R.C. Worst & Co. is managing a project in conjunction with the Coeur d'Alene Press. It is a weekly column that appears in the "D" section every Saturday and is called, "Contractors Corner". It is an informative, weekly article wherein building contractors and supporting businesses of the building trades in North Idaho inform the general public of different new home and remodeling trends. Be sure to visit "Contractors Corner" every Saturday in section "D" of the Coeur d'Alene Press for tips and ideas! You can also visit past articles at rcworst.com.

Lake City Playhouse Fundraiser

Lake City Playhouse would like to invite you to an evening of Ballads at Bardenay Distillery located at 1710 W. Riverstone Drive in Coeur d'Alene. The event is Sunday, February 17th from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $45, which includes dinner, 2 drinks and entertainment. Tickets can be purchased from any Lake City Playhouse Board Member or at the Lake City Playhouse box office, 667-1323.

There will be a silent auction and all the proceeds from this event help Lake City Playhouse continue to provide you with quality entertainment. Please make your reservation soon as seating is limited to 100 and tickets are going fast!

Nominate an Outstanding Woman in Leadership

It's time once again to participate in and recognize Women of Leadership at the Women's Leadership Conference of the Inland Northwest. Nominate a woman today who you feel deserves recognition for her leadership efforts! Click HERE to nominate someone today!
Nominations due February 15th.

Save the Date! ~ March 12, 2008

From Glass Slippers to Glass Ceilings:
Challenging Women Leadership Myths

In it's 10th year, this annual conference provides a plenary session with a featured speaker, breakout sessions with 3-5 various topics, an intimate panel discussion, and a market place of women owned small businesses. The conference also includes a luncheon and awards ceremony.

The purpose of the conference is to bring Inland Northwest women together in order to encourage, educate, and motivate them to embrace the challenge of leadership; to understand the need for connection between women; to offer the ideas and skills necessary to help them articulate and accomplish their educational, professional, and personal goals for a new millennium; and to advance women in our community in order that women may be full and equal partners in the leadership of our society and world through commitments they may make.

When: March 12th, 2008
Where: SCC Lair
Time: 7:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m
Cost: Students FREE / Luncheon $15
All Others: $35

Featured speakers:

Dr. Dene K. Thomas, President Lewis-Clark State College (plenary session)
Beverly Walker-Griffea (intimate panel discussion), the original organizer of the conference 10 years ago

This educational conference is brought to you by:
North Idaho College
Community Colleges of Spokane (SCC, SFCC, IEL)
Washington State University-Spokane
Eastern Washington University
Gonzaga University
Whitworth College
Lewis-Clark State College-CdA


For more information, please contact Sherry Wallis at 769-3268

Coeur d'Alene Junior Miss Meeting Tonight

The Coeur d'Alene Junior Miss Committee is pleased to announce that this year's program is well on its way! The program this year will be April 18th and 19th at Lake City High School and the theme is "All that Jazz". Any Junior girl who lives in the School District 271 area (including home-schooled students) are welcome to participate. The program emphasizes education, a healthy lifestyle, professionalism, and dedication to the community.

For those interested in participating, there will be a meeting tonight, February 4th, at 6:00 p.m. at Woodland Middle School. For more information on the program, please contact Raechelle Clark at 660-0771.

STCU Sponsors Money Education Camps

On February 15th, STCU is sponsoring "My Life, My Money" Camp for middle school students, ages 11 - 15. This event is free and will be held at the North Idaho College Workforce Training Center in Post Falls. During the 5 1/2 hour camp, students will be fed, entertained and taught about money. To register, contact Anne Hagman at anneh@stcu.org or 208-619-4027.

Idaho Independent Bank Receives High Honors

U.S. Banker Magazine recently named IIB as one of the top 25 banks in the nation and in the top 10 of community banks in the country. This puts IIB at the top of 7,500 banks nationwide. The rankings were mostly rated on return on equity. Idaho Independent Bank was established in 1993 and currently operates 10 branches throughout Idaho with about 230 employees in total.

Congratulations to Idaho Independent Bank!