Good morning, Coeur d'Alene.

Sam Wolkenhauer from the Idaho Department of Labor said the government shutdown has paused employment numbers and vital economic data during his talk at the Coeur d'Alene Rotary Club meeting at the Coeur d'Alene Resort—he explained that growth in construction and manufacturing has flatlined since March and workers are staying in their jobs due to the loss of wage gains.

On Friday, Elks Lodge 1254 and Secondary Transition Education Program students unboxed hundreds of dictionaries for local third graders, and 755 dictionaries will be distributed next week—students added stickers, bookmarks and red ribbons as they worked quickly.

Justin Mannion said he was surprised by the large number of books supporting literacy.

Coeur d'Alene Fire Chief Tom Greif will retire in April 2026—he began his fire service in 1997 and has led the department through major equipment upgrades and safety improvements.

Mayor Woody McEvers praised his long service and solid leadership as he prepares to step down.

Idaho health officials expect to receive full SNAP food assistance funding by Friday and recipients will get their benefits within 48 hours.

Partial payments began on November 7 during the shutdown—officials are now preparing to implement new work requirements.

Jeremy Radezky, a 39-year-old hydro plant operator, is fighting a rare blood cancer after a fall broke his hip.

His CT scans showed tumors and lesions and his cancer treatment began in early November and will last up to six months as doctors work to help him — a condition seldom seen in someone his age.

Schweitzer will delay its opening to November 28 because rain and warm nights have limited snow buildup, said operations chief Tom Chasse—skiers will wait an extra week on the slopes.

Broadway’s Rock of Ages Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Coeur d'Alene Casino — $25 & Up — Experience electrifying performances of '80s rock hits by Broadway's elite musicians.

Dockside Thanksgiving Buffet

10 AM – 6 PM — Dockside Restaurant — Adults: $69.95, Children (5-12): $34.95 — Savor an exceptional Thanksgiving feast featuring herb-roasted turkey and prime rib.

Lighting Ceremony Parade

5-11 p.m. — Downtown Coeur d'Alene — Free entry — Experience a magical parade featuring festive floats, marching bands, and holiday spirit along Sherman Avenue.

History Hour with Jacob Eberlein

5:30-6:30 p.m. — Coeur d'Alene Public Library — Free entry — Explore the roots of Christmas traditions in Coeur d'Alene through the eyes of local historian Jake Eberlein.

Sip 'n Stitch Brunch

10:30 a.m. — Fine Brewed Cafe — Cost varies — Enjoy a cozy crafting morning with hand-stitched felt ornaments and warm drinks.