North Idaho Exposure
By Ben Olson | Reader Staff | November 5, 2025
When my partner revealed she had never watched the 1990s TV show Northern Exposure, I decided to introduce her to Joel, Maggie, Ed, Chris in the Morning, Maurice, Holling, Shelly, Marilyn, Ruth Ann, and the rest of the quirky residents of the fictional small town of Cicely, Alaska. After a few episodes, she was captivated. “It’s just so precious,” she said, and I couldn’t agree more.
I’ve always dreamed of living in a place like Cicely — a small town where people generally get along, many have a casual understanding of world history, philosophy, and art, and every character conceals a unique talent without bragging. Neighbors appreciate each other, and the spirited antics add charm to daily life.
Recently, while walking to work, I realized that we actually live in Cicely — or something close to it in North Idaho. Small towns are more than the clichés in real estate brochures; they are communities made up of individuals who make life worthwhile. Recognizing these "Cicilian" qualities in Sandpoint is especially important as our town has grown rapidly with newcomers over the last five to ten years.
“It’s just so precious.”
Sandpoint embodies the spirit of a close-knit community where diversity and shared experiences enrich daily life, much like the fictional town that inspired this reflection.
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