Features
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.
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.
MICKAEL STEVENS - 40 under 40
Mickael Stevens is the recreation supervisor for Rathdrum Parks and Recreation.
Spokane airport receives $6.4 million for terminal expansion
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced it has awarded $6,427,744 in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to Spokane International Airport in Washington. The airport will use the money to fund the first phase of construction on the terminal building expansion.
Connections beyond the food
Community, family fuel success for Joel's restaurant
When you go to Joel's, don't forget the poppers. It'd be easy to forget as you ponder the many options, trying to decide what to get when it all sounds so good. But as delicious as the food is — and the poppers are legendary — it is the Aispuro family that makes Joel's Mexican Restaurant a must-visit spot for breakfast and lunch for both Sandpoint residents and visitors alike. Family is at the heart of the restaurant — whether it is Joel and Rebeca Aispuro Sr. and their children, the employees who have become like family, or the customers who are welcomed with a friendly smile.
North Idaho Spas receives industry awards
North Idaho Spas, with locations in Kootenai and Bonner counties, was recently recognized for its achievements in the hot tub industry at Sundance Spas International Dealer Conference held in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
Think Big Festival returns in April
The Innovation Collective announced the return of its annual Think Big Festival April 13 to 15 to Coeur d'Alene.
J.A. Bertsch expands with Technical Training Center
J.A. Bertsch Heating and Cooling is continuing to grow while at the same time enhancing its team development and support system.
All in the family business
We’ve all heard it said, “You should never go into business with relatives.” There is some merit to that, but there is also a wealth of evidence indicating it might not be such a bad idea. In fact, it could be a great one. “The most essential characteristic of stable family businesses is responsible leadership,” said Patricia Soldano, president of Family Enterprise USA, a Washington, D.C.-based national advocacy and research group, in a 2021 news release about a study the organization commissioned to research the impact of these firms. The study revealed that family-owned companies contributed 54% of private sector gross domestic product in the U.S. That’s the equivalent of $7.7 trillion.