Good morning, Coeur d'Alene.

Local foster families gathered on Nov.

14 at the Cove in Post Falls to craft nearly 450 cards and posters for first responders and delivered them to fire and police stations on Tuesday—an act of gratitude ahead of Thanksgiving. Fostering Idaho Region 1 coordinator Shae Mouchett led the project to honor responders after community tragedies this summer.

The Coeur d’Alene Press has launched its Christmas for All campaign to help neighbors face hardships like auto repairs, rent and health care, and it aims to raise $300,000 by Christmas Eve.

The program—running since 1985 and founded on volunteer efforts and local partnerships—has already raised over $1.5 million to support those in need.

Coeur d'Alene firefighter-paramedic Cody Moore and his K-9 Skye passed FEMA Canine Certification after working together since March—Moore, a 10-year K-9 handler with Washington Task Force 1, said the new certification marks Skye’s quick start as she takes over from retired K-9 Murphy.

Sunnie Helling, 38, from Coeur d'Alene worked full-time at NIC's Adult Education Center after graduating with her daughter and receiving help from local community programs.

After overcoming addiction and hard times, she broke the cycle by earning benefits and buying a reliable car—reaching key milestones in education and recovery.

Dance Theatre Northwest will perform The Nutcracker on December 13—showing at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. at the Schuler Performing Arts Center on the NIC campus—with students and local musicians presenting a cherished holiday tradition.

The Museum of North Idaho at 720 E.

Young Ave. will host its holiday showcase — Deck the Table — from Dec. 5 to Dec. 13, featuring handcrafted centerpieces by local artists and community groups available via online auction to support the museum’s historical preservation and educational programs.

The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture will host its Gather and Glow holiday kickoff event this Saturday from 4 to 6 p.m.—visitors can make holiday cards, enjoy live music on-site, and see Santa and Mrs. Claus—while admission stays free and gift store discounts add to the festivities.

Coeur d'Alene School District superintendent Shon Hocker thanked the community for its support that strengthened classrooms, extracurriculars, and safety programs—efforts that helped the district rank second statewide among larger districts.

The message celebrated National Merit Scholars and first-generation graduates as evidence that strong teaching and investment in education build a solid foundation for every student.

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.

Classic Cruise-In at Killer Burger

1-5 p.m. — Killer Burger Hayden — Free entry — Show off classic cars and enjoy delicious burgers in a vibrant community atmosphere.