Good morning, Post Falls.

WalletHub recently ranked Idaho as the 19th happiest state based on factors like well-being, work environment — and overall community, while local residents in Coeur d’Alene say the kindness and quiet magic of nature make the state a great place to live.

Lisa Skvarla is an actor, martial artist and teacher who brings her passion for the arts to the Coeur d’Alene community—she has taken roles in television and film and runs Playhouse Northwest Acting School to guide local talent.

She will perform live at Carnegie Hall in spring and continues to empower community members through her teaching.

The Pacific Northwest Food & Wine Festival will take place this weekend—offering residents a chance to enjoy regional food and wine.

The event is expected to attract local visitors seeking a festive atmosphere.

Educators new to North Idaho gathered at a reception hosted by the Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber at North Idaho College on Wednesday night, where about 100 teachers, administrators and education leaders met to network and share support for the local schools — teacher Tara Gray was noted for her excellence as Elementary Teacher of the Year.

Idaho 55 between Eagle and McCall now sees far more cars and longer delays than ever before—accidents slow emergency responders and leave motorists stranded.

The Idaho Transportation Department will make minor improvements such as adding passing lanes and digital signs to ease the heavy traffic.

Coeur d’Alene fire engineer Dave Tysdal, who was shot on June 29 on Canfield Mountain and later developed a serious blood infection causing sepsis, made a full recovery from the infection and is now steadily progressing in his rehabilitation therapies—he is strengthening his upper body and learning to drive with hand controls. His family expressed gratitude for the community’s continued support as he works toward full recovery.

Rathdrum City Council approved the preliminary plat for the 71-lot Meyer Meadows First Addition on a 20-acre site at the corner of Lancaster Avenue and Radcliff Street—residents had raised water pressure concerns at the public hearing.

The developer must extend Radcliff Street and meet water and sewer improvement standards before construction begins, with public improvements set to start next year.

Two local 4-H friends, Shelby Roberge, 14, and Sophia Paliotto, 15, will travel to DevonWood Equestrian Centre in Sherwood to compete in the United States Dressage Federation Regional Championships that begin Thursday and run until October 5—marking their second invitation to the event. They will also host a petting zoo today at Kootenai County Farmers' Market from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to allow local visitors to meet them and their horses.

Climbing Basics Classes Registration

10 a.m. to noon — Coeur Climbing Company — $130 per session — Youths aged 7 to 14 can learn essential climbing skills and safety in a fun and engaging setting.