Good morning, Coeur d'Alene.

On Thursday at 3 p.m., kids and families gathered at Windermere Coeur d’Alene Realty parking lot for the 'We've Got Your Back' bash, where sponsors handed out free backpacks, school supplies, and carnival treats (including a water slide and face painting) to help support children beginning school.

On Wednesday, volunteers began restoring St. Luke’s Episcopal Church as they applied whisper white paint to its historic walls near North Fifth Street and Wallace Avenue — a $10,000 matching grant from Idaho Heritage Trust supports repairs on the west and south sides while plans are underway for additional upgrades.

Dishman Hills Conservancy voted last week to remain independent and cancel merger talks with Inland Northwest Land Conservancy—its members voiced concerns over merging responsibilities.

The board said it may explore partnerships later as it maintains 3,200 acres of protected land.

Hayden’s Veterans Commission is accepting nominations to honor a local military service member with the Distinguished Veteran award at the Veterans Day Ceremony on Wednesday, Nov.

11. Nominations must be submitted by Sept. 25 (via email or drop off) and include a nominee biography for participation in parades on Dec. 5 and July 24.

A design proposal was approved for a 6,156 sqft mixed-use building (at 923 E.

Sherman Ave) to include retail shops, office suites, and two one-bedroom apartments near downtown. Construction is expected to begin between fall and next spring.

Idaho football is set to face Cal Poly in a season opener today at 7 p.m. in San Luis Obispo (the game is on ESPN) as both teams, coming off 4-8 records last season, aim to build momentum for a playoff return.