By Gary Lirette, host of North Idaho Business radio show on KSPT and KBFI, and REALTOR® for Tomlinson Sandpoint Sotheby's International Realty Sandpoint has seen a number of new businesses open in the last year, among them the Pita Pit, and Super One. I have worked for years supporting the arts, local events, and mentoring small businesses, but this year seemed especially important. So far, it looks as though Sandpoint is faring well. Few businesses have closed their doors this winter. Plus, while recently unemployment in Bonner County was at a 25-year high, we have some bright spots. For instance, after losing Harold's Grocery four years ago to the new Panhandle State Bank building, we have had only one major downtown supermarket. Super 1 Foods store opened last summer, providing neede... 12/14/2010

Took these shots about a month ago before the first big snow on the Spokane River: Gary Lirette, featured in Where To Retire magazine and host of the Tuesday noon local radio shows: North Idaho Business as well as North Idaho Arts. E-mail Gary or call 208-610-1384Read Gary's Blogs   Tomlinson Sandpoint Sotheby's International Realty 200 Main StreetSandpoint, Idaho 208-255-3474 www.SandpointID.net - To learn all about Sandpoint and North Idaho www.RealtySandpoint.com - For Sandpoint Realty www.SkiSchweitzer.net - To visit Schweitzer Mountain's Community Web 12/09/2010

National recognition and reviews about Sandpoint, Idaho & Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort Sandpoint nation's eleventh Coolest Small Town - Budget Travel in a national poll Best Snowboard Resorts - Schweitzer Mountain among the Top 10 according to Sno.co.uk Schweitzer Ski Resort - West's Best Ski Towns in December 2010 CNN Travel article Most under the radar: Sandpoint, ID - In the West's best ski towns from the December issue of Sunset magazine Big Dig Tells Nuanced Story About North Idaho Town - A team of archeologists unearth some great history from Sandpoint's early days under the new Sand Creek Byway in this November 2, 2010 Oregon Public Broadcasting write up. Sandpoint: A Gay-Friendly Getaway in Conservative Idaho - Sandpoint open and friendly to everyone according to this October ... 12/09/2010

With a blanket of winter white outside and the holidays on our doorstep, I asked Craig Gildersleeve to visit on my Thursday noon show, Speak Up North Idaho, broadcast on KSPT and KBFI in Sandpoint and Bonners Ferry, Idaho. I asked Craig what the most popular items for fish are this time of year. The answer came quickly: Dungenous Crab. While these most delicous crustaceans are sold year-round, but 80% are purchase in December and January, according to Craig. He told me that while frozen Salmon still sells well, other favs are ling cod, oysters, and petrole sole. He said you will find ground fish this time of year. A popular Thanksgiving and Christmas item is salmon, whole or half, grilled or broiled. We talked about the Salmon runs, beginning with the Copper River Salmon in May. I asked... 12/09/2010

I had a conversation with Matt Smart from Mountain Horse Adventures last Thursday on my show: Speak Up North Idaho, broadcast on KSPT and KBFI in North Idaho. Guess you will be the first to read that now, in addition to hosting North Idaho Business as well as North Idaho Arts & Adventure, I took over the reigns of my third show this week. Matt talked about a new event for our area, taking place during Sandpoint Winter Carnival January 15 and 16, 2011. The way Matt calls it 1 Horse, 1 Skier, 1 Rope. What is it? Ski Joring. Also known in Scandinavia as Skijoering, it is simply a skier being pulled by either a dog or a horse, and racing is common. Wikipedia states that skikjøring also can be done with a motor vehicle, but I don't buy it. Skijoring was featured in the 1998 film Silver Wolf,... 12/08/2010

The Roman Nose-Naples, Idaho in winter  Snowflakes I awaken thinking of you. The world outside is cold; winter has made its entrance through two wide doors, the world overwhelmed by its majesty. Snow has fallen, and soon our lives will be blanketed with a cover of white. It is a time for snugs and hugs, fires and carols. Anticipation baits the breaths of skier and snowboarders, ice skaters and fishermen. Almost time. Almost... My thoughts go to walking the Alpine Lakes of the Roman Nose in Naples. I imagine walking with you, hand in hand, frost vaporizing from our short-of-breath open mouths. This is the time of year that the water is glassy tranquil, the ridge peaks reflecting in the smooth mirrored pools. There will be snow, but not too much. The trails will still be passable on foot,... 11/21/2010

While social networking is the bomb, it is also not the only way of connecting with your community. While tweeting and Facebook friends are now part of the real estate and business landscape, there is no replacement for one-on-one contact. Now let's be real. If you are not a good public speaker and are not a social butterfly, maybe blogging is what you need to be looking for. However, if those qualities are elusive, these kinds of meetings and organizations help to hone those skills. Business Network International (BNI) is a business referral network. Based on the philosophy "Givers Gain" it exists to bring small business people together in a structured format which encourages the exchange of business.BNI was founded in 1985 by Dr. Ivan R. Misner. It is founded on the philosophy that "G... 11/18/2010

There have been 51 closed sales for waterfront in our North Idaho MLS region for the time period stated in the last year. While some are indeed secondary waterfront with no views of the river or lake, at least three that have fit this MLS search are on creeks. Still, that leaves 42 closed sales with direct, boatable access and clear views of the water. Click Here to View the Waterfront Sold Listings Here are the overall stats:   LIST PRICE: SOLD PRICE: DOM: HIGH LOW AVERAGE MEDIAN TOTAL PRICE LISTING COUNT $2,950,000 $179,000 $775,688 $530,000 $39,560,099 51 $2,250,000 $177,000 $663,741 $490,000 $33,850,820 1612 0 214 137     Another tidbit of info is that of these 51 sales, 14 were condos. Two notable points is that Seasons at Sandpoint has done very well at moving their inventory, and... 11/18/2010

At the Sandpoint Business & Events Center ! •  December 2nd - Family Night,  4-7pm and free to the public.  Santa will be there, too! •  December 3rd - Holiday Luncheon, doors open at 11am with the viewing of the trees in the gymnasium.  Guests will then be directed to the 3rd floor auditorium where the silent auction will take place.  Buffet lunch at 11:30.  (Tickets are $30.) •  December 4th - The Progressive Gala .  This evening's events will feature virtually 2 events in one.  Guests will be directed to the 3rd floor auditorium where the silent auction will take place with hors d'oeuvres and a no host bar.  Once the silent auction is over, guests will head downstairs for the remainder of the evening with a wonderful dinner catered by Ivano's and the live auction of fabulous trees!  ... 11/18/2010

Sandpoint Upcoming Events - This Week in Sandpoint from the Sandpoint ChamberCoeur d'Alene Upcoming Events - from the CdA Chamber 2nd Friday monthly April - December: Coeur d'Alene - Art Walk The Coeur d'Alene Arts and Culture Alliance has organized a monthly Art Walk, that takes place from 5-8 pm the 2nd Friday monthly, April through December. Enjoy an evening of exceptional art, fine dining and friends in downtown 208-664-3194 www.artsincda.org Starting in November: Coeur d'Alene - Coeur d'Alene Resort Holiday Light Show  More than a million lights sparkle across Lake Coeur d'Alene at the largest on the water resort holiday light show in America! Features over 225 holiday displays ringing the boardwalk at the resort, plus a memorable "Journey to The North Pole" to visit Santa himself!... 11/10/2010

On my radio show North Idaho Business Tuesday I interviewed Steve Dilts, spearheading the fundraising event, dinner, and auction benefitting the Luke Commission, which provides medical care for up to 800 a day at each of the clinics they run in Swaziland, Africa. Here are the details: 12/5/2010 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Christmas for Africa - Idaho Auction  Events Center (map) The Luke Commission Compassionate Medicine team invites you to an evening of deals, dinner, and documenting what Dr. Harry and Echo (PAC) Tuinstra VanderWal are directing in Swaziland. $25 per person or $200 for table of 10. 5 p.m. - Silent Auction5:45 - Dinner & VanderWals Speak 7 p.m. - Live Auction TLC Mission The Luke Commission offers health care in rural Swaziland, southern Africa, to those who have little or no med... 11/10/2010

On Tuesdays I host the North Idaho Business Show on KSPT and KBFI. Last year I interviewed Lonnie Jones of the Ironhorse Riders Association for the first Bash for Cash. The concert was awesome, and the benefit raised lots of money for cash-strapped local charitible causes. This year promises to be just a cool. Bash for Cash Who: The adjustablesSugar Daddy18 ShadesNieghbor JohnEasy Money When: Friday, November 12, 2010 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM PST Where: The Panida Theater300 N. 1st Ave.Sandpoint Idaho 83864 Get Directions Iron horse riders association presents the 2nd annual Community Concert " A Bash For Cash"At the Panida theater in Sandpoint, ID. November 12, 2010. Doors at PM. Event starts at PM. Tickets $12 at the door. $10 in advance. BANDS: 18 ShadesEasy MoneyNeibor JohnSugar DaddyThe ... 11/10/2010

Economy & Economic Outlook for Sandpoint, Bonner County, and North Idaho - Winter 2010 I host the radio show North Idaho Business. In that capacity I am often asked the questions, "Is it a good time to start a business in the area?" As a Realtor for Tomlinson Sandpoint Sotheby's International Realty, I am asked the similar question, "Is it a good time to buy a home here?" There is often the codicil, "...or should I wait ‘til the fall/winter/summer/spring?" In fact, even as far back as May 14, 2007, on a forum hosted by CityData.com, a couple asked that very question. Looking back, was it a good decision to wait until the fall to buy? Here is the easy answer: prices are now lower on many properties. Also, if you overpaid in May of 2007, then you very well could be upside down now. There ... 11/10/2010

Here are some more autumn pictures of our beautiful Sandpoint, Idaho area fall. Train tracks leading to Trestle Creek Recreation Area Train tracks leading to Trestle Creek Recreation Area Beautiful fall colors along Lake Pend Oreille Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort off in the distance Surreal view of the Green Monarchs on Lake Pend Oreille Lone boat on Lake Pend Oreille motoring towards the Monarchs Gary Lirette, featured in Where To Retire magazine and host of the Tuesday noon local radio shows: North Idaho Business as well as North Idaho Arts. E-mail Gary or call 208-610-1384Read Gary's Blogs   Tomlinson Sandpoint Sotheby's International Realty 200 Main StreetSandpoint, Idaho 208-255-3474 www.SandpointID.net - To learn all about Sandpoint and North Idaho www.RealtySandpoint.com - For S... 11/06/2010

While driving up to Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort from Sandpoint, Idaho I saw this owl off in the distance. Here are the pics: Gary Lirette, featured in Where To Retire magazine and host of the Tuesday noon local radio shows: North Idaho Business as well as North Idaho Arts. E-mail Gary or call 208-610-1384Read Gary's Blogs   Tomlinson Sandpoint Sotheby's International Realty 200 Main StreetSandpoint, Idaho 208-255-3474 www.SandpointID.net - To learn all about Sandpoint and North Idaho www.RealtySandpoint.com - For Sandpoint Realty www.SkiSchweitzer.net - To visit Schweitzer Mountain's Community Web  11/06/2010

Here is a group of photos of the last day of the Sandpoint Farmer's Market at Farmin Park and my subsequent stroll around downtown Sandpoint. The booths around the fountain at the Sandpoint Farmer's Market Sandpoint Farmer's Market Duo of Dave and Tami Gunter provides Celtic and contemporary music Local Viggo Mortensen Where I work - Tomlinson Sandpoint Sotheby's International Realty on the same block as the Farmer's Market Historic Panida Theater in Sandpoint, Idaho Cedar Street Bridge shopping complex Entrance to the Cedar Street Bridge Downtown Sandpoint, Idaho Shopping inside the Cedar Street Bridge Gary Lirette, featured in Where To Retire magazine and host of the Tuesday noon local radio shows: North Idaho Business as well as North Idaho Arts. E-mail Gary or call 208-610-1384Read ... 11/03/2010

Here is the second chapter of what has been a spectacular year for Fall colors in North Idaho. Here is a recent articles on autumn in North Idaho: Idaho in the fall: A subtle beauty all its own Here are the pics: North Idaho Autumn Colors Clark Fork River autumn colors Clark Fork River autumn colors Clark Fork River autumn colors Moyie River Bridge North Idaho Autumn Colors North Idaho Autumn Colors Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort splashed with Fall Colors Gary Lirette, featured in Where To Retire magazine and host of the Tuesday noon local radio shows: North Idaho Business as well as North Idaho Arts. E-mail Gary or call 208-610-1384Read Gary's Blogs   Tomlinson Sandpoint Sotheby's International Realty 200 Main StreetSandpoint, Idaho 208-255-3474 www.SandpointID.net - To learn all about... 11/03/2010

Words are meaningless. This year we had perhaps the most beautiful Fall Season ever in North Idaho. Here is a recent articles on autumn in North Idaho: Idaho in the fall: A subtle beauty all its own Here are the pics: The Roman Nose near Naples, Idaho  Rapid Lightning Creek near the Idaho Club and Sandpoint, Idaho Rapid Lightning Creek near the Idaho Club and Sandpoint, Idaho Algae covered boulders in Rapid Lightning Creek near the Idaho Club and Sandpoint, Idaho Yaak River in Western Montana near the North Idaho border Bull River in Western Montana near the North Idaho border Bull River in Western Montana near the North Idaho border Bull River in Western Montana near the North Idaho border Gary Lirette, featured in Where To Retire magazine and host of the Tuesday noon local radio shows... 11/03/2010

On the hills above Spokane is a farming community called Green Bluff. Green Bluff is in Mead, WA just north of Spokane Valley and NE of Spokane off Bruce Road. Besides just being a farming community, there are little eateries, quaint stores and shoppes, and the overall atmosphere is charming. The fresh produce and fruit make it worth the drive. We stopped to visit Green Bluff this Autumn and spent a few little whiles in the pumpkin patch. Here are the pics:   Here is a Mapquest Link http://www.greenbluffgrowers.com/ Gary Lirette, featured in Where To Retire magazine and host of the Tuesday noon local radio shows: North Idaho Business as well as North Idaho Arts. E-mail Gary or call 208-610-1384Read Gary's Blogs   Tomlinson Sandpoint Sotheby's International Realty 200 Main StreetSandpoin... 11/03/2010

The Schweitzer Alpine Racing School (SARS) hosts their annual Ski Swap at the Bonner County Fairgrounds on November 13 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. You can drop off equipment to be sold between noon and 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 12. Admission is $2 per person, or $5 per family, and proceeds benefit SARS (Schweitzer Alpine Racing School). SARS.net. You will NOT be disappointed by this sale!  SARS has been running this sale for as long as I can remember and they do a great job!  The massive quantity of skis, boots, snowboards, clothing and accessories is truly astounding and in these difficult times...the price is right!  What I love most about the swap, is that the SARS racers are selling much of their personal and well maintained race equipment.  To score some these, you better plan on arriving e... 10/30/2010