Features
Assets and liabilities: Insurance needs differ throughout life

When it comes to insurance, no two people have precisely the same needs. But one thing is common to everyone.
What's it like to be an insurance agent?
Being an insurance agent is like being a teacher, a counselor, a researcher and a detective all in one. Agents must be knowledgeable about the products they sell and the companies they carry. They need to effectively communicate with clients. They are expected to explain what is available and help people decide which products and services are ideal for individuals and families. They are constantly updating their certifications and learning about how new laws affect their products. On top of all this, they need to ask all the right questions so they can know what coverage is best for every customer.
Clubs help members invest in financial futures
Investment clubs such as the Beardstown Ladies can provide a collaborative environment for investors to learn about investing with like-minded members. Its mission, BI officials said, is to help investors and want-to-be investors learn the skills they need and, if they wish, how to set up an investment club by offering guidance and education.
Tech tips
Don't discount digital domain

Any good digital presence and using key words will make it easy for people to find you and help your business to grow. A Google business profile is another essential, as Google is by far the number one search, thought Amazon coming close to passing it in advertising revenue.
Pro tips from an insurance veteran

The insurance game can be a confusing one. Thankfully, there are people like Phyllis Towne out there to help you navigate it.
Business comings and goings

A huge Early Dawn Commercial Center is planned for the Highway 41 and Early Dawn intersection.
Charting a bright path into the future

While I've never been one for New Year's resolutions — I figure why wait for an arbitrary date on the calendar to start a good habit or break a bad one — I do admit to a fondness for history.
Farmers feel the strain of high production costs

Farmers in Kootenai County are feeling the strain of high production costs, despite agriculture’s continued dominance in Idaho’s economy, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Idaho's economy stood tall in 2024
Economist likes what he saw this year, expects similar results in 2025

Wolkenhauer said some tend to focus on the downsides of growth, which includes traffic and building, but the upside of more people means increased spending, investing and hiring in the fields of construction, hospitality, recreation and health.
North Idaho tourism strong in 2024

A year that began with the release of the "Official Idaho Travel Guide" maintained a strong and vibrant tourism industry for the Gem State, where people have long loved visiting and more and more are settling in to call it home.
North Idaho College enrollment increased in 2024

After an extended period marked by political tension and uncertainty about the future, North Idaho College is getting back to basics.
2025 will be a new chapter for Kellogg
The future is looking bright for the city of Kellogg.
Community is on a mission to help others

In a remarkable display of unity and compassion, businesses across the community joined forces this holiday season to make a meaningful impact in the lives of their friends and neighbors.
Kootenai County business roundup
U.S. Census Bureau numbers from earlier this year show that Idaho was the fourth-fastest growing state in 2023. With people flocking to the area, Kootenai County entrepreneurs are opening businesses or expanding to new locations to keep up with the growing demands for the expanding population size.
Business comings and goings

Southern Brazilian cuisine is featured in the new Boiada Brazilian Grill at 2380 N. Old Mill Loop in Riverstone opening Dec. 6.