Good morning, Coeur d'Alene.

Retired Sgt. Maj. Stephen Durfee, who served in Army Special Forces and chairs the Kootenai County Veterans Commission, will be honored as Military Hero of the Year at the Fourth of July parade in downtown Coeur d’Alene—an event that starts at 10 a.m.—and has said he does not consider himself a hero.

The North Idaho Resource Directory lists veteran service offices that offer free help with disability claims, pension claims, burial benefits and more—covering locations such as Post Falls, Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry and Wallace.

Veterans and their families are advised to contact any of these offices or the Idaho Division of Veterans Services for assistance with VA benefits.

The U.S. Senate unanimously passed a bill to reauthorize funding for the Secure Rural Schools and Self-Determination Program that supports over 4,000 school districts and 700 counties in rural Oregon and Idaho.

Bill sponsors said the measure will continue funding for schools, roads, and law enforcement—house lawmakers are now urged to pass it.

Chris Lane, 46, had an asthma attack that turned into a cardiac arrest on March 16 while visiting family on the east side of Lake Coeur d’Alene; his sister performed CPR until East Side Fire District responders arrived within two minutes.

He was flown to Kootenai Health, spent five days in the hospital, and now feels grateful—crediting his survival to quick help—and remains thankful to his family and volunteers.

The VA travel pay program will reimburse eligible veterans and caregivers for mileage and travel expenses to approved health appointments—eligibility covers factors like a qualifying VA disability rating, income level, or care needs.

Coeur d'Alene residents are encouraged to review the VA resource directory—detailed instructions on filing a claim are provided there.

Veterans Press offers guidance on how friends should talk with loved ones about PTSD by asking first about sharing details and learning about symptoms—advice that includes invitations to spend time together and practical help with everyday tasks.

Numerica’s Cash Dash returns today through Friday as people hunt for one of 25 mini basketballs worth between $50 and $1,000—participants follow Instagram for daily clues and scan each ball’s unique QR code to check their prize.

This scavenger hunt is part of Numerica’s longstanding partnership with Hoopfest.

Modern Homesteading Conference

7:00 AM – 5:30 PM — New Leaf Nursery — Learn about sustainable living and gardening at this annual community event.

Hello, Dolly! Presented by Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre

2 p.m. — NIC Boswell Hall / Schuler Performing Arts Center — G-rated — Experience the delightful musical comedy that celebrates romance and humor through unforgettable songs and lively dance.

Mastermind Session for North Idaho Brokers

10 AM – 12 PM — Best Choice Realty — Free entry — A dynamic, collaborative session for North Idaho brokers to spark fresh ideas and share insights.

Yachtley Crew Concert

7 PM — Coeur d'Alene Casino — $35 & Up — Enjoy the smooth tunes of the Titans of Soft Rock at this lively Yacht Rock concert.

Paws & Claws Pet Adoption Event

Companions Animal Center & Oxyfresh Worldwide to sponsor an adoption event on Saturday, July 12, 4-7pm at Vantage Point Brewing Company at 208 E Coeur d'Alene Lake Dr. Come find a new furry friend and enter a raffle for $500 Value Prize Giveaway.