Daily Bee announces business publication

BonnerBIZ is coming to the Daily Bee or the newsstand near you on Jan. 31.

The new business publication is filled with local business and consumer information that can't be found anywhere else.

"BonnerBIZ fills an important need in our community," said publisher David Keyes. "We hope our publication becomes a must read for business people and the public who want to know what is going on here."

BonnerBIZ will be in print and online.

The initial issue will feature the rebirth of the Cedar Street Market as its first cover story. The piece is written and photographed by David Gunter.

Gunter has agreed to write the lead stories for BonnerBIZ.

Gunter's inaugural story provides a brief history lesson and shares co-owners Jeff Bonds and John Gillham's visions for the future of Sandpoint's most famous landmark.

"Gunter and Bee business writer Conor Christofferson will be the main writers for BonnerBIZ," Keyes said. "We have also lined up some interesting columnists who will provide unique perspectives and advice."

For example, Panhandle State Bank CEO Curt Hecker will write about the state of the economy for BonnerBIZ.

What were the top 10 local business stories of 2007? The exclusive list will be in the first edition.

Christofferson also has a feature on Logical Expressions and infopreneurism. He also has a profile of a young entrepreneur.

Monthly features will also come from:

? Amy Little from the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce.

? Karl Dye from the Bonner County Economic Development Committee.

? Zan Deery will "Name names" with businesses that are on the Better Business Bureau naughty list.

? The Ponderay Community Development Corp. and other business related groups will also contribute.

The monthly business calendar will also feature a handy way to keep track of all of the activities and meetings that could impact the public.

"We are still on the look out for columnists who are experts in the fields of investing, insurance and real estate," Keyes said.

The advertising deadline for the first issue closes this Thursday. If you would like to be a part of this issue, please contact the Bee at 263-9534.