Mel Dick knows that a wild backyard is good for business

As the owner of the 219 Lounge, he’s seen a thing or to when it comes to running a Sandpoint bar. He understands that Idaho’s natural beauty attracts people to the area. That means more people eating at restaurants. More people shopping at retail stores. And yes, more people hitting the bar for a night on the town.

“As a business owner, Scotchmans, I think, is an area that draws people to northern Idaho,” Mel said. “As a result, there’s more business for people, there’s shops, restaurants, establishments like the 219 Lounge.”

That’s why Mel is ready to celebrate wild and free North Idaho on the longest day of the year. It’s summer solstice Friday, June 21. And the 219 Lounge is hosting Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness from 5-9 p.m. for a benefit to save the wild Scotchmans.

Volunteers keep the dream of Scotchman Peaks alive. And they’re the guests of honor at the Scotchmans Summer Solstice Party. In fact, two very special Friends will be named Old Goat of the Year. “Wait a minute, twovolunteers?” longtime supporters might ask. That’s right! For the first time ever, the Friends will award two Old Goat titles—one for summer and one for winter.

It’s also a great time to raise money for the Scotchman cause. Look out for a chance to win great prizes in a raffle. Even better, the 219 will match up to $1,000 in funds raised, so any contribution is worth double on summer solstice.

Otherwise, get ready for a great time. P.B.&Jam will be setting a lively mood with live music. And what better way to enjoy all that daylight than with a few craft beers?

The Summer Solstice Party will be a celebration to remember. And it’s all to save the Scotchmans for our children and grandchildren. If there’s one thing Mel knows better than local business, it’s that nature is a gift.

“I have an 11-year-old, a 6-year-old and a 2-month-old grandson and granddaughters, and I really want them to have the opportunity to be within 5, 10, 15, 20 minutes of a wilderness area where they can get out and hike, fish and observe wilderness and wildlife in action.”

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About The Author:

Cameron Rasmusson is a writer and journalist who grew up in Scotchmans territory. While he now calls Sandpoint home, he spent his formative years in the natural beauty of Libby, Montana. From elementary to high school, he enjoyed the outdoor experiences that mountain towns provide.

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