BONNERS FERRY — “We are going to promote listing locally, marketing nationally,” said CJ Tuma, new owner of the Coldwell Banker Northwood Realty.

Drivers may notice the new sign just north of the stoplight in town, sporting a large, state of the art, LED message board. This is one of the first changes that Tuma has implemented since buying the business two weeks ago.

The rotating LED message board will display more that real estate for sale. Tuma plans to install a drop box where the community can submit birthday requests. Chosen submissions will be displayed among the rotating messages. Marriage proposals may be submitted as well.

Tuma is excited about offering birthday wishes on the new board. “For the good of the community,” he states.

Tuma has been licensed with Coldwell Banker since 2005, working in the office he now owns. When the owner decided to retire, Tuma took the opportunity to purchase it and the business never closed its doors.

“It was good timing,” said Tuma. “The transition was super smooth.”

Tuma brought in two more team members to join him and Steve Holly: Chris Clark and Sam Testa, who will focus on the commercial realty.

Tuma stresses that the trust of his clients in very important to him. “I’ve been a multi-multi million dollar producer, year after year, thanks to my clients trusting me. It couldn’t happen without them.”

An Open House will be held May 6, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. There will be a free barbeque with burgers, brats and all the fixins, including chili and sauerkraut. It is open to everyone, from past clients to potential customers.

“I won’t try to sell them a house,” Tuma said with a chuckle, “It’s just a thank-you.”