Features
Take a drive through history
Everyone knows about Coeur d’Alene, Sandpoint, and even Wallace, but the things that people really want to see are those hidden spots, the places that the world has swallowed up and reclaimed.
Parks paradise in North Idaho
State sites a boon for revenue, scenic getaways
Four thousand acres where a World War II naval training station once operated and where the Boy Scouts gathered for the 1969 National Jamboree is just 35 minutes north of Coeur d'Alene. "Farragut State Park has historically been our biggest revenue-generating park for the agency," Idaho State Parks and Recreation public information specialist Chelsea Chambers said April 12. On the southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille set against a picturesque backdrop of wooded mountains and open skies at 13550 State Highway 54, Athol, Farragut is in the company of several state parks in North Idaho that invite visitors to enjoy their favorite outdoor activities, honor local history and otherwise immerse themselves in a memorable nature experience.
'Hidden gems' showcase region's best activities
Precious stones aren’t the only hidden gems in the Idaho Panhandle — from a lesser-known trail to a discreet swimming hole, there are many activities throughout the region that may not be showcased on the typical “top 10 things to do” list.
Places to play and the business that support them
There is much to explore here. Days, months, years even, can be spent exploring the lakes and forests of North Idaho and its communities without even making a dent in the multitude of activities and places to visit.
Outdoor adventures await in North Idaho
With a view of the city of Coeur d’Alene above Lake Coeur d'Alene, owners Paul and Ashley Buttars deliberately staked out a picturesque site when they were planning out what would become Timberline Adventures. Ziplining or crossing sky bridges among the trees and then seeing the city over the lake is something they hope melds the thrills of extreme outdoor recreation with the beauty of sightseeing. “It’s a pretty unique feeling when you get 80-90 feet up into an old tree we think is older than America,” Paul Buttars said.
Doors to success
Morse family expanding Continental Door's North Idaho presence
Continental Door Company president and founder Norm Morse admits overhead doors were not his first foray into the business world. "I'm not a door guy," he said. He was in high tech for 30 years, designing and developing new products and patents and working with companies such as IBM, Hewlett-Packard and Microsoft. "I touched a lot of the leading-edge technologies at the time and I loved it," he said. Morse retired from his role as a director of new product design and development 21 years ago, but his business acumen would serve him in his next chapter as he opened the Continental Door Company in 2002 in the Spokane Valley. About two years after that, he brought his sons Derik and Marc into the fold to help with the family business.
Get ready for the Book of Lists
The North Idaho Business Journal Book of Lists is back, and it's going to be better than ever. Set for publication in December 2024, this resource is a benchmark of the region's diverse and thriving business community.
Jake’s Landing, bouncing back from COVID
Right on the Selkirk Loop, Jake’s Landing is pressed between a mountain range, the Kootenai River and the Canadian border.
Pioneers, trailblazers and innovators
Each story is unique, and each pathway toward success is unique for each 40 Under 40 honoree.
'The harder you work, the luckier you’ll get'
Cal Russell is one more link in a family of entrepreneurs behind tractor companies spanning five cities in the region. Beginning in Spokane with Adams Tractor in 1929, Coeur d’Alene Tractor was added to the family business in 1948 and Twenty-eight years later, with Russell’s help, the family opened Boundary Tractor in Bonners Ferry.
Growing the next generation of business leaders
How young people are getting into entrepreneurship
Some people want to make sure they have an outlet to get a job as they move into adulthood, but not everyone just wants to get a job. Many young people growing into adulthood want to be creators and bring opportunities and ideas to the world around them.
Nonprofits not all business
But they still face financial challenges
The Press recently asked some nonprofits to share their thoughts on the keys to success and what it takes today to persevere
Shared spaces lower costs, boost success
Shared workspaces aren't a new concept, but they are gaining in popularity as entrepreneurs seek a spot to call their own without making a commitment to a full brick-and-mortar spot.
Business comings and goings
With possibly the most interesting website in North Idaho, The Snake Pit will reopen in April with new owners and plans. Built In 1880 at 1480 Coeur d'Alene River Road, now in the Kingston area, new owners Viljo and Autumn Basso plan to retain the charm to the place that has received many names and occupants over its 144 years. The restaurant will have indoor and patio and picnic seating with a gazebo.