Although the Olympic fanfare has passed, Schweitzer Mountain Resort is the perfect place to flex your own gold medal style. And enthusiasts know that skiing and boarding during late winter and early spring definitely have their advantages:
1. Perfect timing. Spring skiing is a great season to hit the slopes because there's still plenty of snow plus the holiday crowds have thinned out.
2. Festive events. March is packed with fun happenings at Schweitzer, including the Yoke's Outrageous Air Show March 5-6, the Grom Stomp for little daredevils March 14, and the Stomp Games March 19-21.
3. Save money. Schweitzer unveiled a new Spring Fling Pass, giving passholders full access to the resort March 15 through the projected closing date of April 11 (weather permitting). The pass costs $99 (plus tax), plus you can use the $99 as a discount toward your 2010/2011 season pass.

Variety is the spice of life, and things definitely heat up as the Pend Oreille Arts Council presents two events in the locally resplendent Panida Theater this month.
- Calo Flamenco takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 5, in the Panida Theater. This electrifying dance and music ensemble arouses passion of the human heart in a brilliant display that only flamenco can deliver.
- And Friday, March 26, the Mud Bay Jugglers delight young and old alike beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the Panida. This unique ensemble blends juggling, comedy, dance and music into a unique and amazing performance.
For more information about these performances, including where to buy tickets, visit ArtinSandpoint.org.

Grab a pal and hit the downtown streets of Sandpoint for an afternoon of great shopping and art gallery browsing. The "shoulder season" of March provides a great opportunity to explore Sandpoint's downtown charm.

On the unique Cedar Street Bridge, you'll discover bright and imaginative shops, plus yummy lattes and pastries. Then head over to Coldwater Creek's flagship store for the arrival of spring's newest fashions. And check out all the fanciful little shops tucked in between for your quest of that perfect treasure. And don't forget to stop in at some of the art galleries 'round town. While there are quite a few to visit, the newest one on the block is located inside the Idaho Lights store at 402 Cedar St.

Planning a Trip to Sandpoint 101

If you're plotting out the details of an upcoming trip to Sandpoint, include a quick online stop to the Visit Sandpoint Travel Info page. There you'll find driving distances from Sandpoint to regional cities and recreational hot spots, plus transportation resources and maps for the town of Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille. We're anxious to welcome you!