“Local” can be a relative term. In North Idaho I like to think of local as a mindset as compared to simply tenure. Many families have chosen the Coeur d’Alene area in the 80’s, 90’s and beyond – roots are beginning to run deep.
The tension (not unlike other small communities) around the definition of local is difficult to put to words – we’ll try and likely fail. What we have in Coeur d’Alene is special – part of what makes it special is that we are not simply a smaller version of a bigger mess. The unfortunate reality is that some either intentionally or unintentionally try to recreate the mess that they left behind here – and bottom line is – most of us have slowed down for a reason. People take time to wave, the majority of posted speed limits are 25-35 MPH, businesses rarely stay open late (except Lowe’s and Home Depot), are often closed on Sundays and even some on Mondays. Food is often better coming out of a truck. People read the newspaper. And, camouflage is a legitimate color.
In our town, it would be fair to suggest that residents that are invested in a better future for Coeur d’Alene from an economic, educational and communal perspective are what being local is truly all about. You could have landed three weeks ago and if that’s your mindset going in – you’ll love calling this place your home.
