Tuesday, March 28
KASSI ALLEN - 40 under 40
Kassi Allen, owner of Anchored Coffee Company, is noted for being a sharp business leader with soft skills to match. Over the past year, Kassi has expanded her business, adding locations and additional services.
KATIE EBNER - 40 under 40
Katie Ebner, chief financial officer for the Post Falls School District, is not only a financial leader in the school district but known throughout the state for her expertise. She has presented school finance training at the Idaho School Boards Association’s annual conference and to Gov. Brad Little’s advisory panel, which directly affects school finance statewide. In addition to her school district responsibilities, Katie is the Region 1 director of the Idaho Association of School Business Officials, conducting regular meetings for other school districts. Katie is a member of Post Falls Kiwanis and a participant in the Post Falls Chamber’s 2023 River City Leadership Academy. She is also a longtime member of the Idaho Association of School Business Officials.
KATIE HUFF - 40 under 40
Katie Huff, a benefits consultant with Murray Group, is noted for her drive as a professional and excellence in customer service to clients and colleagues alike. “Katie exemplifies a true servant leader by looking for ways to add value to our business relationships and recognizing the humanity in our whole team, and the clients she serves,” said one of several nominations Katie received. She is also recognized for her outstanding community service efforts on behalf of a variety of nonprofits and events supporting them. “Katie Huff is one of those exceptional individuals who exceeds expectations in her profession, but also unselfishly contributes to the community as well,” said another nomination.”Her positive energy is contagious and she has an impressive work ethic.”
LAURA STEININGER - 40 under 40
Laura Steininger, a doctor of physical therapy, is owner and founder of Inland Pelvic Health and Physical Therapy, which opened in 2020. Her professional goals are to continue growing her specialty clinic known for exceptional pelvic rehabilitation.
LAUREN BENEDICT - 40 under 40
Lauren Benedict, executive manager and COO of Knudtsen Chevrolet, is a 2013 graduate of Lake City High School and as a dual credit student, she graduated from North Idaho College that same year. She went on to Gonzaga to earn her bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s in organizational leadership. In 2021, she completed the National Automobile Dealers Association Academy. She has worked at the dealership owned by her family for over seven years, in human resources management. Active in the community, Lauren’s volunteer work includes service with the local chambers of commerce and United Way of North Idaho.
MEGHAN MITCHELL - 40 under 40
Meghan Mitchell, owner of Retrofit Athletics in Spirit Lake, is noted for her skill as a personal trainer and coach. “She truly cares for the people of the community and wants to see everyone be successful in their fitness journeys,” said one of two nominations she received. Meghan works tirelessly helping men and women succeed in improving their health through exercise and healthy living and eating. Her work inspires people to support each other in these efforts. Her community service includes more than 10 years as a youth group leader with Spirit Lake Baptist Church.
MICHAEL ARMON, JR. - 40 under 40
Michael Armon, Jr., a financial advisor with Stifel Financial in Coeur d’Alene, has shown great ability in working with clients and developing relationships, especially during the pandemic, a difficult time for financial markets. “He did not allow the time of limited client engagement to slow him from continuing to develop his asset management skills, or the deepening of the commitment to be a significant part of the team both at Stifel and for his clients,” said his nomination. Mike is active with the Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce leadership program, now serving as co-chair of the Leadership Coeur d’Alene board of directors. A member of the Rotary Club of Coeur d’Alene, he is active in the redevelopment of the Rotary Youth Exchange program. He also helps coach youth soccer.
TAYLOR BEACH - 40 under 40
Taylor Beach, a sergeant for the Coeur d’Alene Police Department assigned to the patrol division, was lauded by her nominator as an outstanding public service professional.
NICHOLAS HAWKINS - 40 under 40
Nicholas Hawkins, director of sales at Litehouse, Inc., is described as a humble leader who strives for excellence by challenging the status quo and pushing himself to deliver high quality performance in all he does. “Through his accountability and integrity, he has been able to establish strong levels of trust and respect among those he works with, and as a result grow in his role and responsibilities within the organization,” said his nomination. “His commitment to excellence, ownership and stewardship shows up in the way in which he holds himself, his team and those around him accountable to deliver on the goals and priorities set forth by leadership.” Also active in the community, Nicholas has supported churches, nonprofits and sponsored or assisted with many other initiatives that serve others. He was a trustee board member at Church of Cedar Hills.
NICHOLAS PETERSON - 40 under 40
Nicholas Peterson, managing partner of Hayden Lake Law, opened the firm in September 2022. His goal was to create a new type of firm that improves accessibility to legal services. He is emphasizing a client-centered approach by providing more education to clients and ensuring clear communication. Nick is striving to create a business that redefines the term 'lawyer' to be the ultimate advocate for the client. Nick’s community service includes one year as a volunteer educator for Street Law, a civics and law program for high school students. He was class representative of the Student Bar Association at Gonzaga University, a volunteer tutor for LSAT and bar exam prep, a Student Alumni Relations Board member at the University of Idaho and a volunteer at Kootenai Health.
NICOLE JACKLIN - 40 under 40
Nicole Jacklin is co-owner and designated broker of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Jacklin Real Estate, with offices in Coeur d’Alene and Liberty Lake. She oversees all the agents and staff in the office while maintaining compliance and growing their brand and legacy, and she gives back to the local community. Nicole is a board member for the Children's Village Foundation, works closely with the Kootenai Health Foundation, and is a member of the Coeur d'Alene Regional Realtors Young Professionals Network. Various fundraisers at Nicole’s brokerage have raised more than $24,000 for local nonprofits.
OCTAVIAN RIVAS - 40 under 40
Octavian Rivas is a community development officer at Idaho Central Credit Union, where he has worked since 2016. He has elevated ICCU to be well-known in North Idaho. He has built a relationship with the community that is visible by many. Octavian has been through leadership training, he is a member of the Post Falls Rotary and alumni associations. He has also volunteered with the Second Harvest Mobile Food Pantry, Father Bill's Kitchen, Safe Start, the Boys and Girls Club and more.
PAIGE MCGOWAN - 40 under 40
Paige McGowan has been the development director at Better Together Animal Alliance since 2019. Paige combines her passion with data and storytelling to share information with donors.
JUSTIN KNIGHT - 40 under 40
Justin Knight, a physical therapy assistant and certified strength and conditioning specialist with North Idaho Physical Therapy, is committed to helping community members live their best lives. Justin engages in daily learning to increase his knowledge and expertise, while always staying focused and centered, and he is very involved in helping his company expand its BIO Performance Institute and Functional Training program. “Watching the patients improve, gain nutritional education, pain free mobility and positive, life- changing experiences brings him great joy,” said his nomination.
SHANDA MASTERSON - 40 under 40
Shanda Masterson is the assistant general manager at the North Idaho State Fair and Kootenai County Fairgrounds, where she has worked since October 2021. “The facility literally could not run without Shanda,” her nomination reads. She is involved in the rodeo, the fair’s youth stock show and sale and scheduling vendors. She does all this while maintaining a positive and helpful attitude, always willing to lend a hand. Shanda is also the current Idaho District 1 director for the National Barrel Horse Association.
STEFAN SMITH - 40 under 40
Stefan Smith is a Realtor with Windermere/CDA Realty and a local residential investor who has built his business since his mid-20s. Stefan is the chair for the Coeur d'Alene Regional Realtors Young Professionals Network and is a local and state director for the Coeur d'Alene Regional Realtors Board of Directors.
TAD JOHNSON - 40 under 40
Tad Johnson, a CPA and senior manager at Magnuson, McHugh and Company, has been with the firm since 2018. With a niche in construction accounting and tax, Tad takes initiative to continue to grow in his career and with the firm. He is currently becoming licensed to prepare business evaluation. “Tad is always willing to help other staff despite how busy he might be, and he is a key team member,” his nomination said. He serves on the Idaho Fish and Wildlife Foundation Board of Directors, a member of the Post Falls Rotary Club and a supporter of many community events that support local nonprofits.
ANNA HAMMONS - 40 under 40
Anna Hammons is general manager of Club Pilates in Hayden, which opened in August.
ASHLEY BROWNING - 40 under 40
Ashley is a photographer and owner of Ashley Browning Photography. She is noted for her business culture steeped in service to her community. Ashley donates her photography
BRAD LEGGAT - 40 under 40
Brad is co-owner of FirstLight Home Care. After building a successful insurance agency, Brad was inspired to create a culture of care for the elderly in Coeur d’Alene. He has led FirstLight Home Care to become a fast-growing company recognized for providing high quality care for the region’s aging population. “Brad leads by example. From day one, he has not asked an employee or caregiver to do anything he is not willing to do,” said his nomination.
BRITT THURMAN - 40 under 40
Britt Thurman, executive director of the Museum of North Idaho, is continually growing the MONI membership, donations, endowments and corporate sponsors. She is deeply involved in the business community as it is the lifeblood of MONI. “Her ability to connect with business and community leaders is inspiring,” said her nomination. “She cares about North Idaho and knows how to bring people together for the great good of our community. Britt loves North Idaho, its history, and its people. She will be a driving force in the business community and North Idaho as a whole.”
CAMILLE BALFANZ - 40 under 40
Camille Balfanz, director of brand management at Litehouse in Sandpoint, is described as a strategic leader with a passion for continuing to learn and grow. “She has managerial courage and recognizes the importance of building a high performing team,” said her nomination. Camille is noted for taking on challenging assignments and leading them with a high level of positivity. She is also one of her company’s most dedicated volunteers, committing her time to supporting Litehouse’ commitment to the community and looking for other ways to give back.
CHRIS WILLIAMS - 40 under 40
Chris Williams, an attorney and owner of Kootenai Bankruptcy, PLLC, saw the need for a local bankruptcy-focused law firm, and thus Kootenai Bankruptcy was born in 2021. Chris has helped hundreds of people find their fresh financial start in the face of an uncontrollable economic downturn and COVID. He manages every detail of the law firm while placing an emphasis on sustainability of the firm's business model. He is a member of the Idaho State Bar Association’s Commercial Law and Bankruptcy Section and Chris assists Legal Aid Services, Inc. in some of their cases when an individual cannot afford legal representation.
DAVID BOBBITT - 40 under 40
David V. Bobbitt, is vice president, commercial relationship manager with First Interstate Bank. He has worked in the finance industry for over 15 years and is responsible for financing a number of key projects in Kootenai County. In 2019, David was named an inaugural ‘Top 40 Under 40 Emerging Community Bank Leaders’ by Independent Banker magazine. He volunteers and serves on the boards of several nonprofits. David believes in the economic vitality and quality of life in our area and actively promotes the business environment of North Idaho directly through his work and volunteerism.
EMILY BOYD - 40 under 40
Emily is executive director for the Coeur d'Alene Downtown Association, an organization that focuses on bringing business to downtown and keeping the area beautiful through membership dues and monthly events. In addition to her management responsibilities, Emily is part of the City of Coeur d’Alene’s Parking Commission. Emily has helped plan and execute many popular downtown events, including some she created. She serves on the 2023 Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
JAMES PERKINSON - 40 under 40
James Perkinson, an account executive with Advanced Benefits, is noted for continuously striving to advance his knowledge in the insurance/finance industry. He has attained several highly desired designations, including Certified Self Funding Specialist and Registered Employee Benefits Consultant. James works primarily with mid- to large-size employers to offer unique benefit offerings to help employers and their employees with cost and experience within their health care journey. He is dedicated to giving back to the community and does so while serving on several boards, including Kootenai County Young Professionals and Coeur Group, and volunteering for many local events.
JESSICA STEPHENS - 40 under 40
Jessica Stephens, North Idaho Title Team Leader for TitleOne, is noted for her industry expertise and the success and value of the team she has built. Jessica has optimized workflow by identifying areas needing improvement and implementing strategies to help enhance performance.
JOSEPH MATISON - 40 under 40
Joseph Matison is the Operations Director of Hagadone Media Group. He consistently strives for ways to improve the day to day logistics of the organization while offering advice and consultation when able. He primarily works behind the scenes to provide new tools, procedures and optimizations to his peers and coworkers. As someone who has worked in many different industries, his unique experiences are able to bridge the gap between individuals of differing backgrounds and expertise for more harmonious results.
JORDAN ROCKE - 40 under 40
Jordan Rocke, procurement director for Litehouse, Inc., is noted for his professionalism when facing stressful situations, self-motivation, intellect and ability to adapt to new environments, and a track record for leading successful projects. “These skills were demonstrated over the course of several years as we faced a severe supply chain crisis that could have crippled our organization,” said his nomination. “Through his leadership and direction, ingredient needs were met while maintaining strong partnerships with our suppliers.” Jordan is also active in the local community, participating in many charity events and Leadership Sandpoint.
JOSH MCDONALD - 40 under 40
Josh McDonald, local editor of the Shoshone News-Press, is a Silver Valley native. He joined the News-Press in 2015, beginning as a staff reporter and working his way up to his current position.
MOLLY MULHOLLAND - 40 under 40
Molly Mulholland is the events coordinator at Hagadone Marine Group, which she joined in February 2022. Her colleagues celebrate her energy, passion and innovation. In one year, Molly increased the Coeur d’Alene Boat Expo attendance by 62%. She was also the face of more than 7,000 ticket sales in 2022 for specialty cruises, helping to increase revenue for the cruise fleet. “Molly is a driving force within our company,” her nomination reads. “She is a true gift to the Coeur d’Alene community.”
RYAN LEWIS - 40 under 40
Ryan Lewis is the north regional manager, Hayden business manager and director for STRATA. He joined the firm in 2014. Ryan’s leadership, service and commitment have propelled a previously stagnant operation to one that exemplifies safety, integrity, professionalism, accountability and teamwork. In 2016, Ryan re-opened STRATA’s Coeur d’Alene office as a one-man engineering operation. He has helped STRATA’s Coeur d’Alene/Hayden operation significantly grow. “Ryan continuously and tirelessly gives back to his peers, his profession and his community,” his nomination states.
JEANNA PADILLA - 40 under 40
Jeanna Padilla, a pediatric nurse practitioner, with her business partner, started Northwest Pediatrics. With an added certificate in mental health, Jeanna provides a much-needed service to our community.
Goach aims to up your golf game
Hayden pro golf sisters launch app
While competing and playing professional golf, Maria Kostina Angel and her sister Anastasia Kostina loathed the agonizing data entry to track their stats.
Creativity, balance and color
Wallace businesswoman shares her journey to success
Growing a small business can be tough, and doing it during a pandemic seemed impossible. But Sarah Murphy isn’t one to back down from the words tough or impossible.
Idaho’s January unemployment rate down to 2.7%
Idaho’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 2.7% in January, edging down from the revised 2.8% rate in December.
Trailblazers and influencers
Prepare to be inspired. It’s no small feat to achieve professional excellence, let alone reach that pinnacle before the age of 40.
North Idaho Business Journal 40 under 40 — 2023
Introducing the North Idaho Business Journal’s inaugural 40 under 40 list of young professionals shaping business in 2023 in North Idaho.
North Idaho’s Fastest 20 Growing Companies — 2023
If your company’s revenue grew from 2020 to 2022, we want to hear from you. North Idaho Business Journal is looking to recognize and honor our region’s fastest-growing local companies. 2023 will be the inaugural year of North Idaho’s Fastest 20 Growing Companies!
Contending for last dock standing
Marine contractor shares about the industry and his business
This is a story about docks, our lake, and the tradespeople - both past and present - who spend thousands of hours per year working its waters, both above the surface and below. “This isn't about me, it's about us,” said Troy Sylte, owner of Can Fathom, a full-service marine contractor.
NORTH IDAHO ALLIANCE: March is Women’s History Month
Every year, March is designated Women’s History Month by presidential proclamation. The month is set aside to honor women’s contributions in American history.
Some thoughts on retirement for small business owners
Having retired three times myself, and having coached a number of executives as they prepare themselves to leave the world of active business, I’ve come to the sad conclusion that for a great many Americans, and society as a whole, the current model for retirement is dysfunctional, serving neither the real interests of society nor those of the individual.
HAYDEN CHAMBER: North Idaho — a special place to live and work
If good news should be shared, great news ought to be shouted. Last December when I was visiting my son in New York, a restaurant server asked me where I was visiting from. Proudly I said, Idaho, North Idaho. The server smiled and said, tell me about it (As an aside, that’s a great question, and so much nicer than where’s that?!). I smiled and said, “North Idaho is full of amazing people. It’s the type of area where you know your neighbors and bump into people you know at the grocery store and out at events. There’s a sense of community pride."
Supporting interns achieving excellence
No matter what business you’re in, creating passionate and hard working employees requires care and intention from the leadership team. Now is the perfect time for law firms and other professional businesses to revamp their summer internship programs to build something that creates great returns not only for the intern but the organization as well.
POST FALLS CHAMBER: Community makes a big impact
I just absolutely LOVE my job! I know some of you have heard me say it before, but as I sit here and reflect on our February events and look forward to what March has in store, I just can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of joy. I am honored to play a small part in supporting such a giving community.
AMY STONE - 40 under 40
Amy Stone is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Schneidmiller Realty, where she has worked for over two years.
AMY VANSICKLE - 40 under 40
Amy VanSickle is the director of marketing for The Coeur d'Alene Golf and Spa Resort.
ANDREA MARCOCCIO - 40 under 40
Andrea is co-founder of Matchwood Brewing, located in Sandpoint’s historic Granary Arts District.
ANDREW COOK - 40 under 40
Andrew Cook is CEO of Five23. His commitment to excellence in every aspect of his leadership, from his financial acumen to his focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, has made him a role model for other business leaders to emulate. Under his leadership, Five23 has become a thriving and successful company poised for continued growth and success in the future.
MICKAEL STEVENS - 40 under 40
Mickael Stevens is the recreation supervisor for Rathdrum Parks and Recreation.
TERESA BORRENPOHL - 40 under 40
Teresa Borrenpohl is a former North Idaho College staff member now employed by Washington State University. While at NIC, Teresa created NIC Connect.
JAVIS CORNETT - 40 under 40
Javis Cornett is the regional director of audience development for the Hagadone Media Group, a position he has held for two years. With 15 years of experience, Javis is a strong business development professional with data analysis and strategic planning skills that make him a key team member in his company’s digital and print news operations.
Wednesday, March 15
Intermax plans expansion to Spirit Lake
Fiber internet project in the final permit stages
Fiber-to-the-home is considered state of the art in Internet infrastructure and service