Salute to veterans

No doubt about it. Veterans are loved in North Idaho.

With Veterans Day coming up on Wednesday, restaurants, businesses and dental offices are offering free products and services to veterans.

Sweet Lou’s restaurants in Coeur d'Alene and Ponderay are saluting the troops by offering current and former members of the U.S. armed forces a free, hand-cut, 6-ounce USDA choice top sirloin with one side on Veterans Day.

“This year, it seems more important than ever to honor those who have made this country so great,” said Chad Foust, owner of Sweet Lou’s. “We are proud to be able to offer our local veterans a meal after such a chaotic 2020.”

This will be the 10th anniversary of Foust offering free steak lunches and dinners to veterans and he's prepared to feed the masses.

Sweet Lou’s Restaurant and Tap House is at 601 N. Front St.

“We are ready and willing to serve every service man or woman that walks in our doors,” Foust said. “Everyone at Sweet Lou’s looks forward to Veterans Day. It’s a big team effort to put it on and we are grateful to be able to do it.”

The offer is only good for dine-in customers on Nov. 11 and veterans must show valid military ID.

“Our dining rooms are open, sanitized and ready,” Foust said. “Our doors open at 11 a.m. We’ll see you then.”

Metro Express Car Wash will provide free car washes to veterans and current military service personnel, under the Grace For Vets Free Wash Program on Nov. 11 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Washes will be given rain or shine at Metro Express Car Wash, U.S. 95 and Neider Avenue in Coeur d’Alene. The free washes are given to honor and recognize those who have or are serving in the armed forces.

“This day is not about the car wash operators who are providing the free washes, it’s about honoring and recognizing those that have and are serving and protecting our country," said General Manager Jordan Kuhn. "It’s an exciting and emotional day for everyone. Our management team and employees look forward to giving back to those who have given so much."

Dr. Alvin Brett Matteson and staff at Lakeview Dental are working on a free dental day that will include free cleanings, fillings, extractions for veterans.

"This event is sure to warm the hearts of all who attend and inspire those that have already sacrificed so much for our great country," a press release said.

Veterans are invited to attend and share stories and enter to win prizes, compliments of local businesses and military branches.

Veterans are asked to call 208-664-0884 to schedule their free dental appointment between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Lakeview Dental is at 801 W. Milwaukee Drive, Coeur d'Alene, or visit lakeviewdentalclinic.com