Ellington

Teen suspect's statements admissible

COEUR d’ALENE — Statements made by a Coeur d’Alene teen to police after he was arrested for allegedly killing his father and brother in March will be heard during his trial, Kootenai County District Court Judge Benjamin Simpson ruled Thursday.

SHS girls claim IEL hoops title

MOSCOW — Grace Kirscher hit three 3-pointers and totaled 18 points, three steals and two assists as the Sandpoint Bulldogs beat the Moscow Bears 40-27 on Friday night at Memorial Gym to clinch the 5A Inland Empire League girls basketball title.

USFS: New OSV rule doesn't affect current plan

SANDPOINT — Snowmobile and other over-snow vehicle riders won’t encounter any surprises when they hit the trail in the northern zone of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests.

Judge denies bid to dismiss perjury case

SANDPOINT — A 1st District judge denied on Tuesday a motion to dismiss a subornation of perjury charge against former Bonner County Clerk Ann Dutson-Sater, court records show.

Snowshoe racing a hit at Western Winter Roundup

SANDPOINT — The Western Pleasure Guest Ranch was the site of the Western Winter Roundup on Jan. 24, featuring both the second Snowshoe Roundup and the first Western Winter Nordic ski races. Attendance was good at both events in spite of a warm and rainy weather forecast.

Legislative panel rejects 'Words' bill

The House State Affairs Committee voted along party lines Thursday to kill the “Add The Words” bill, but GOP lawmakers said a compromise can be found to address religious concerns.

Beckford to be arraigned in 1997 killing

SANDPOINT — A Vay man implicated in the 1997 shooting death of his wife  in Washington state is scheduled to be arraigned today in Yakima County Superior Court.

Drive to recall WBCSB chairwoman falls short

PRIEST RIVER — A recall petition seeking to remove West Bonner County School Board chairwoman Sandra Brower from office has came to a halt.

Shelter focused on animals, community

The staff and volunteers at the Panhandle Animal Shelter were sad to read the letter to the editor by Cami Miles (Jan. 13, Daily Bee).

Spring to give first glimpse of Common Core test results

SANDPOINT — Asked about the new Idaho Common Core testing standards, and Lake Pend Oreille School District Superintendent Shawn Woodward will tell you the shift is a “good thing.” It puts more emphasis on evidence-based writing, citing primary sources, and applied mathematics. The change won’t come without some potential growing pains, however.

State of the Union was meaningless speech

Just watched another numbingly meaningless State of the Union speech; i.e., things are great, my policies are great, I’m great, and you’re lucky to have me … ho-hum.

Earth Rhythms Natural Market reopens

PONDERAY — Earth Rhythms Natural Market has reopened.

Benefits set for injured BCSO deputy

PRIEST RIVER — A benefit dinner and auction is set to help the family of Alex Hughes, a Bonner County sheriff’s deputy who was critically injured in a traffic collision while on duty last month.

Fundraiser's success owed to community

On behalf of Mystic Farm Wildlife Rescue, Inc., I would like to thank everyone that had a hand in making our Jan. 17 “Grow More Spots” fundraiser a great success.

Before you assume, learn the facts

Before you assume,

New generator shrugs off power outages

SANDPOINT — The Bonner County Administration Building won’t miss a beat when the power goes out.

Youth Ski League kicks off at 49 Degrees North

• Heart of the Cup — As we enter the heart of the World Cup season, athletes are scattered all over Europe for the various disciplines. This week saw events at three classic venues. SARS alumni Will Brandenburg finished his first World Cup race in 10 tries, and scored points in the process, placing 18th at the classic Schladming night slalom. Brandenburg is one of the fastest in the World when he finishes.

'Representation' showed paranoia

Bill Nye, the science guy, deflated his image when he did not address deflation in the “deflategate” debate. He can’t deflate a football without an inflation needle attached to a compressor. I have an inflation needle I can hide in my shirt pocket and deflate a football with it in seconds — no compressor needed.

BGH nurse is selected to serve on perinatal board

If you’ve given birth at Bonner General Health in the last nine years, you were probably assisted by perinatal nurse JoAnn Filce. A registered nurse since 1978, Filce has an unbridled passion for obstetrics, and has recently been chosen to serve on the advisory board of the Idaho Perinatal Project.

Vikings slow down Bulldogs to avenge loss

SANDPOINT — After losing by 27 points in the first meeting, Coeur d’Alene opted to change things up the second time around, avenging a loss to Sandpoint with a 33-26 win in non-league girls basketball Tuesday night at Les Rogers Court.

Wampus Cat boys and girls teams fall to Selkirk

SELKIRK, Wash. — Eich Anderson posted 11 points and 11 rebounds and Brandan Bowen 15 points and two steals, but the Wampus Cats were simply out-manned, falling 67-38 to Selkirk in nonleague boys basketball on Tuesday night at Selkirk High School.

USFS releases snowmobile management rule

SANDPOINT — The U.S. Forest Service released a federal rule Tuesday aimed at putting in place management plans for snowmobiles on all national forest lands.

'Bags of Change' grant recipient named

Bonner Community Hospice’s Kids Grief Camp has been selected by Winter Ridge Natural Foods Market as its “Bags of Change” grant recipient.

District sets $15.7M levy

SANDPOINT — The Lake Pend Oreille School District is once again running a supplemental school levy through the gauntlet of voter approval. The Daily Bee recently sat down with Superintendent Shawn Woodward and staff in advance of the March 10 vote to discuss the levy, what its approval means for the school district, and what it will cost for taxpayers footing the bill.

Man accused of trafficking

PONDERAY — A Ponderay man was arrested Monday after a search of his residence turned up nearly 9 pounds of marijuana.

Missing teens could be in Bonner County

USFS pledges to find solution to funding shortfall

SANDPOINT — The U.S. Forest Service is pledging to leave no stone unturned in a hunt for funding that will enable a Priest Lake campground and day-use site to tie into the Granite Reeder Water & Sewer District system.

Speed reference was incorrect

Regarding Ammi Midstokke’s Jan. 7 column — she referred to her daughter’s moving “at approximately .00000038 knots per hour.” The speed reference is incorrect. By definition, a knot is one nautical mile per hour. Therefore, “per hour” should not be added after “knots,” as it is redundant.

DEQ awards $2.5M loan to Bottle Bay district

SAGLE — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality is awarding the Bottle Bay Recreational Water & Sewer District a $2.5 million low-interest loan to upgrade and expand its system.

Railroads aren't fly-by-night outfits

There has been much concern regarding the trains carrying the coal and oil tanker cars coming through Sandpoint for quite sometime now. I can understand some concern; however, not to the degree expressed in articles in the Bee and letters to the editor; especially for just the coal and crude oil cars. Many of you would be surprised to learn of all the much more dangerous materials that travel through our cities and towns every day, yet those are never mentioned in your concerns. (And not by just rail).

Let your opinion be known on road

In follow up to my previous letter (Jan. 6, 2015), I think it is important to know that all of the traffic problems created by the approval of the Shadow Valley Camp will negatively impact all of the users of E. Spring Creek Road. It will financially benefit only one family, the Walkers.

Former Bulldog earns All-Big Sky football honors

SANDPOINT — Three games into his senior football season at Eastern Washington University, Cody Hecker wasn’t playing as much as he’d anticipated, and accomplishing the goals he set while working out over the summer seemed slim, at best.

Education is best route for community to take

So, the actual public presentation regarding freight trains through Sandpoint has occurred. Did we learn anything?

Youth sets sights on ending cancer

SANDPOINT — It’s unusual to find someone as young Kiya Kraushaar who has already found their calling, but the precocious 9-year-old is already working to advance her passion. It’s fundraising for, among other things, cancer support, and she’s as determined to bring others into the fold.

College plan costs seem outrageous

There appears to be absolutely no end to Obama and Democratic spending. Now that the country has a debt of $18 trillion, Obama is proposing “free community college for all.” In the view of many folks, the government’s foray into elementary and college education has not been a great benefit.

Seek out and engage your government

I would like to begin by saying that it is an honor to represent District 1 in the Idaho Legislature. There are a few members of the House and Senate that are familiar with our area and our particular issues, but the vast majority is unaware of our needs and perspective.

Elks' rescue made day feel much better

“Daring rescue saves elk” — what a great story. I’d just finished reading the depressing world news on the Internet and was feeling like heck.

Empire Builder schedule back on track

SANDPOINT — The Empire Builder schedule is back on track.

CHAFE 150 gears up for 2015 event

Annual race rolls up funds for students on autism spectrum

SANDPOINT — The CHAFE 150 race is set to attract a record number of riders this year and that means more money for the Lake Pend Oreille School District to meet the needs of students on the autism spectrum.

Why wasn't there plowing on holiday?

Forty-plus degrees on Monday, Jan. 12, would have been an easy snow removal day. I don’t think the last couple years have put much of a strain on city or county road crews.

Idaho giant salamander wins spot in students' hearts

SANDPOINT — For a group of Sandpoint fourth-graders, making the Idaho giant salamander the state amphibian was a no-brainer.

Group tent camping OK'd at City Beach

SANDPOINT — It’s been done before with great results, at least according to testimony from Sandpoint residents and business owners at Wednesday’s city council meeting.

Team Autism 24/7 announces grants

SANDPOINT — Team Autism 24/7 continued its tradition Thursday of helping kids on the spectrum and their caregivers through endless commitment.

Wampus Cats fall short against Miners

WALLACE — Clark Fork came to play in a North Star League tilt on Friday night, but ran out of gas late in the game en route to a 60-46 loss to the Miners at Wallace High School.

Pedestrians hit in crosswalk

SANDPOINT — A mother and her 12-year-old son were struck by a vehicle while using the Pine Street crosswalk on Division Avenue on Friday evening, according to Sandpoint Police.

Bulldogs edge Vikings in wrestling dual

COEUR d’ALENE — Jake Williams (195) and Casey Randles (182) won by pin, and Scout Nash (120), Mahonri Hunsaker (152) and Tyler Presser (170) picked up key wins, leading the Bulldogs to a 35-34 win over the Vikings in a double dual on Thursday night at Coeur d’Alene High School.

Sheriff: Deputy will recover from crash injuries

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County sheriff’s deputy injured in a collision with a tractor-trailer on Wednesday night remains in critical condition.

City mulls future of wastewater treatment plant

SANDPOINT — It’s a hallmark of civilization: you flush, and it’s gone. Wastewater treatment is taken for granted by most, but the reality is it’s technically complex and potentially costly issue, one the city of Sandpoint has been dealing with for some time.

Bulldogs get defensive in win over Hawks

RATHDRUM — Skyler Speakman hit a pair of free throws with five seconds remaining as the Sandpoint Bulldogs held off the Lakeland Hawks 45-43 in a 4A Inland Empire League game on Thursday at Hawk Court.

Water heater fires remain under investigation

SANDPOINT — Fire officials are still investigating the cause of simultaneous fires that damaged a duplex on the city’s west side on Wednesday night.

Community's generosity made holidays merry

The members of the Sandpoint Lions Club want to thank all the people who donated the money and toys needed to make the 2014 Toys for Tots program a huge success. We also want to thank the many folks who volunteered their time to help unload the food trucks, haul toys, pack food boxes, and work long hours during the holidays.

SilverWing suit bound for district court

SANDPOINT — SilverWing at Sandpoint’s federal lawsuit against Bonner County is being redirected to Idaho’s state court.

Hopefully, insult is last act of bullying

On Jan. 12, the county commissioners put a cap on their shabby treatment of the outgoing county clerk.

Instead of planner, hire a city manager

With the departure of Jeremy Grimm, the Sandpoint City Council has an opportunity to do a great service to the taxpaying citizens of Sandpoint: Hire a city manager.

Bonner County man arrested in cold-case killing

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man has been arrested in connection with the murder of his wife in Washington state in 1997.

Crash injures BCSO deputy

CAREYWOOD — A Bonner County sheriff’s deputy was injured in a collision with a tractor-trailer on U.S. Highway 95 on Tuesday night.

Local skiers faring well at regional level

• Lindsey Vonn makes history — After two injury plagued seasons, Lindsey Vonn is back with a vengeance. She won two World Cup gold medals this week in Downhill and Super G at beautiful Cortina, Italy. The wins were her 62nd and 63rd, making her the most winning female alpine racer in history. Interestingly, she won her first World Cup medal at Cortina 11 years ago. Vonn was not alone in the points, with Julia Mancuso 12th and Laurenne Ross 17th in the Super G, and Ross 9th in the Downhill followed by Stacey Cook in 16th and Mancuso in 18th.

Thank you for warm welcome to America

Dear Bonner County

Bengals take down cold-shooting Bulldogs

LEWISTON — The Bulldog boys never lack for effort, employing a full court defensive style and more often than not winning the battle for loose balls.

Air Force names vessel after David Lyon

Once thought eradicated, measles making comeback

I’m not a happy Mouseketeer right now. Planning a trip to sunny California next month was to include a trip to Disneyland, and now I’m not so sure I want to go. And, that’s saying a lot. I haven’t been to the Magic Kingdom since I was a young teen, and thought a look through adult eyeballs would be magical.

Knights run-and-gun way past Wampus Cats

PLUMMER — Jordan Nilson dropped in 20 points to lead the run-and-gun Lakeside Knights to a 73-47 win over Clark Fork on Tuesday night in North Star League boys basketball at Lakeside High School.

Radon testing is needed in North Idaho

SANDPOINT — Warning: there may be an unseen, sinister intruder hiding in your home.

Subsidies' impact won't be felt until '16

SANDPOINT — Bonner County residents won’t see any changes in level of service on local roads or the road-and-bridge levy this year due to reduced federal subsidies paid to counties that contain national forest lands.

USFS grapples with Granite Reeder funding dilemma

NORDMAN — The Granite Reeder Water & Sewer District is running out of patience with the U.S. Forest Service’s inability to hook up to its system at Priest Lake.

Presser claims title at Westburg tourney

SANDPOINT — Tyler Presser went undefeated to claim the 160 pound title, leading the Bulldogs to a 7th place finish out of 15 teams last weekend at the Westburg Tournament in Ellensburg, Wash.

Taking to the airwaves

Youth bringing fresh voice to community radio

SANDPOINT — If you’re a listener of Sandpoint’s local community radio station, KRFY-FM, you may have heard a new, youthful voice on the air.

Legislators talk salamanders, mental health

COEUR d’ALENE — The second week of the Idaho legislative session got under way Monday with committees teeing up some controversial issues they’ll begin to whack this week.

Omnivores often as healthy as vegetarians

I would like to say thank you to the vast majority of vegetarians in Sandpoint for not acting morally superior to the rest of us omnivores. Many of us, although apparently lacking moral compasses, only eat animals which have been raised humanely. And we forgive those few vegetarians who push the cause so forcefully and righteously on others, turning away many here in Sandpoint (including my family) who were considering becoming vegetarian.

Infrastructure costs are highway robbery

A few years ago the city of Sandpoint adopted a new rule requiring property owners that are selling their property to get a “slip test” on homes over 5 years old. This is a sewer lateral inspection done by sending a camera down the sewer pipe of the property all the way to the city sewer main line, which often times is deep down in the center of the city street or highway corridor.

Caring community led to puppy's safe return

We would like to thank our neighbors for their help in finding our lost puppy.

Keeping it local

Sand Creek Custom Wear's downtown location sparks attention

SANDPOINT — The stars seemed to have aligned for one local business, which recently combined a sound idea with a strong reputation and placed them both in a great location.

Grimm lays groundwork for city's future

SANDPOINT — The city entered the spotlight in the early 2000s and Sandpoint began to grow. Real estate office filled the downtown core and houses of all shapes and sizes began popping up helter-skelter.

Infrastructure, schools top state budget

The Legislature has begun on a positive note and I am optimistic that much can be accomplished in the next three months. On Monday, Jan. 12, Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter delivered his annual State of the State and budget address to the Legislature. I was optimistic about what the governor had to say in two areas in particular — education and transportation.

P&Z recommends approval of Sagle asphalt plant

SANDPOINT — The Bonner County Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of a rezone and comprehensive plan amendment that will bring permanency to a temporary asphalt plant in Sagle.

Why doesn't concern extend to the preborn?

The great paradox of January’s “human rights” propaganda is upon us again this year.

Opponents cast dark image over retreat plan

Hearing resumes on Feb. 26

SANDPOINT — Opposition cast a pall over a proposal to turn a family’s retreat in the Cabinet Mountains near Clark Fork into an expanded commercial operation.

BF man captains boat on Animal Planet show

BONNERS FERRY — As the most competitive fishing season on Earth unfolds in Bristol Bay, Alaska, Bonners Ferry native Taran White captains one of the five boats featured on Animal Planet’s “Alaska: Battle of the Bay”.

Sandpoint players represent Idaho at ODP soccer event

SANDPOINT — Four Sandpoint Strikers players represented the Olympic Development Program for the state of Idaho from Jan. 8-11 in Phoenix, Ariz.  

Ex-firefighter sues Sagle Fire

SAGLE — A former firefighter is suing the Sagle Fire District on allegations that she was sexually harassed by a supervisor and subjected to a hostile work environment.

Ex-county clerk seeks dismissal in perjury case

Hearing set for Jan. 27

SANDPOINT — Counsel for former Bonner County Clerk Ann Dutson-Sater is moving to dismiss a subornation of perjury charge.

Griffitts says goodbye to Jobs Plus

COEUR d’ALENE — There’s change at the top of one of the region’s biggest economic teams.

Spartans down Wampus Cats

CLARK FORK — Eich Anderson dropped a game-high 16 points to go with 11 rebounds, but Clark Fork could not stay with Priest River in the fourth quarter, falling 57-45 in nonleague boys basketball Thursday night in Clark Fork.

Jensen's death is mourned

SANDPOINT — A Lake Pend Oreille School District educator who was killed in a collision with a logging truck on Monday is being remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and teacher.

2015 promises to be great year politically?

2015 will be a great year politically with the Republicans firmly in control of both houses of Congress poised to say “No” to big spending and the expansion of big government, right? Well, not exactly.

Grimm resigns Sandpoint post

SANDPOINT — City planning director Jeremy Grimm publicly announced his resignation at Wednesday’s Rotary meeting. Grimm will be joining local mobile analytics firm Kochava as director of publisher development on Feb. 4.

Much work ahead to build economic foundation

Considerable work is required in the 114th Congress to build the foundation for a competitive, national economy that encourages innovation and job growth.  

Oil, coal train worries pack hearing

SANDPOINT — More than 100 people gathered in a standing room-only City Council council chamber Wednesday evening for a facilitated forum on the anticipated  increase in coal and oil train traffic through Bonner County.

Pair uninjured in slide-off accident

SANDPOINT — A pair of Schweitzer Mountain Resort visitors narrowly escaped a dangerous rollover crash on Monday afternoon.

Four Sandpoint shooters post trap score of 22

SANDPOINT — Mike Hunter, John Jaeger, Randy Poelstra and Doug Bottcher each carded a 22 to lead the Sandpoint Gun Club to a team score of 88 last Sunday at the Spokesman Review Trap Shoot.

Wampus Cats dominate second half to down Panthers

CLARK FORK — It was a tale of two halves for the Wampus Cats during a 51-41 comeback win over Coeur d’Alene Charter on Tuesday night in nonleague boys basketball at Clark Fork High School.

Another chapter opens in asphalt plant saga

SAGLE — The saga of a contested asphalt plant continues on Thursday.

Sandpoint's VFW hall gets a facelift

SANDPOINT — Be sure to bring hearing protection if you have any business at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2453 in Sandpoint in the near future, as some noisy renovations began on the venerable veteran’s building Tuesday.

Norris, Collado help Bulldogs bounce Tigers

SANDPOINT — Davan Norris dropped in a game-high 13 points, including two 3-pointers, and the Bulldogs’ brought full court pressure from start to finish, earning a 64-45 win over Timberlake in non-league boys basketball Tuesday night at Les Rogers Court.

PBCA announces playhouse auction grant recipients

SANDPOINT — Playing around ended up paying off for four local organizations, thanks to the Panhandle Building Contractors Association.

BGH to open clinic for anticoagulant patients

If you or someone you know takes the drug warfarin, brand name Coumadin, you’ll want to read this. The rest of you can take the day off!

Teacher killed in collision

HERON — A Bonner County teacher was killed in a collision with a log truck on Monday, according to the Montana Highway Patrol.

Homeless animals deserve better care

I went in to the Panhandle Animal Shelter on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2014, and was absolutely appalled by what I saw. There were three employees at the desk chatting and drinking smoothies. Not one of them looked up to acknowledge me and my children.

City must need all the revenue it can generate

Yesterday I wanted to go to Starbucks downtown to buy a package of coffee. When I pulled in there were no parking places in either of the parking lots and no parking places on either side of the street. So I put my pickup in four-wheel low and drove up on a two-foot snow berm over the sidewalk as the sidewalk had not yet been cleared of any snow. I got out of my pickup standing in snow up to my knees and proceeded to walk into Starbucks to buy my package of coffee.

Bonner County officials take oaths

SANDPOINT — Six Bonner County elected officials took their oaths of office on Monday.

Smokin' Aces Tour kicks off first stop of 2015 at Schweitzer

SANDPOINT — Get ready for a high-flying ski and snowboarding spectacle, as the 2015 Smokin’ Aces Tour rolls through North Idaho with a stop at Schweitzer Mountain Resort on Saturday, Jan. 24.

Praise every day that you are alive

I an so blessed to have met so many wonderful human beings here in Sandpoint. I’ll try to limit my account here: “Beaner” Johnson, Jerry Meyers and so many more. Now there is one more I have to attend — Marcie Carne at Lakeside Funeral. My birthday, too. Same age as hers that I will turn on Jan. 9. Praise every day that you are alive!.

Washington man jailed for stabbing

PRIEST RIVER — A Washington state man was arrested Friday on allegations that he stabbed his father in the neck during an argument.

Saving the planet one meal at a time

Group works to educate, build community

SANDPOINT — Could your food be harming you? Could it be harming the planet? It’s likely, according to one local group. But through informed food choices, they claim those negative effects can help heal both ourselves and the planet.

Keystone project is in country's best interest

As active participants in the decisions made in Congress, Idahoans contact me with valuable input about the issues our country faces.

Labrador's support for Boehner unacceptable

Per Rep. Raúl Labrador’s statement on his home page, concerning his yes vote for John Boehner, he states that we needed 12 more votes to stop Boehner. This is not true. All we needed were four more votes to cause a second vote. In addition, the congressman decided to represent the leadership and not his constituents.

Bread and circuses while Rome burning

Many people in North Idaho have voiced their disappointment with our U.S. Rep. Raul Labrador’s vote in support of John Boehner. I was shocked to read his explanation of his support.

Honeymoon cut short by alleged road rage incident

HAYDEN — It was a honeymoon cut short.

Satellite companies only care about themselves

Most counties’ rural folks rely on one of two satellite providers for TV and online connections.

Court: Brown's confession was not coerced

SANDPOINT — A district judge has ruled that Keith Allen Brown’s confession in the killing of a Priest Lake man was voluntary, court records show.

Assistive technology gets red carpet welcome

Library serves as local office for free program

SANDPOINT — Any disability, any age, any task with any technology.

Be grateful we have many news choices

I am responding to Jim Peasha’s letter of Jan. 8 regarding political change. He cites the loss of Fox news and Fox affiliates on Dish as an example of Dish’s liberal slant. This is the second letter to the editor presenting this viewpoint.

Fish & Game proposes price lock plan

SANDPOINT — Idaho Fish and Game will ask Idaho lawmakers this legislative session to consider a proposal to increase resident Idaho license and tag fees

Soderbergs, Roop lead Thunder in win boys to win

KOOTENAI — Jimmy Soderberg had a big game, scoring 18 points to go with seven boards, while making 12 of 15 attempts from the free throw line, leading the Kootenai Thunder boys basketball team to a 72-61 win over Flathead Valley in recent tournament action at the Hub in Liberty Lake.

Tribes seek end to instant racing machines

COEUR d’ALENE — Four Idaho-based Indian Tribes sent a letter Tuesday to Idaho’s governor and attorney general asking them to put an end to “Historic Horse Racing Machines.”

Bulldogs split at River City Duals

POST FALLS — Scout Nash (120), Mahonri Hunsaker (152), Andrew Webster (160), Tyler Presser (170), Casey Randles (182) and Jake Williams (195) each won twice on Friday night to lead Sandpoint during day one of the River City Duals in Post Falls.

Meeting set on Lightning Creek project

CLARK FORK — The Idaho Panhandle National Forest is hosting a community meeting Thursday to acquaint the public with a plan to restore whitebark pine and its habitat in the Lightning Creek watershed.

Brown seeking post-conviction relief for killing

SANDPOINT — A former Bonner County man convicted in a killing at Priest Lake in 2007 is launching an effort to have his case overturned and his sentence amended.

Bail stands in stabbing case

SANDPOINT — A bail reduction request was denied Wednesday for a young Sandpoint man accused of stabbing another young man on New Year’s Eve.

Anderson, Boudousquie lead Wampus Cats past Tigers

CLARK FORK — Geoffry Boudousquie and Eich Anderson combined for 42 points, dominating the paint as the Wampus Cat boys notched a 63-60 win over Mullan in North Star League boys basketball Thursday night at Clark Fork High School.

Obama: Free community college for all

Plan eyes free learning ‘for everybody who’s willing to work for it’

President Barack Obama revealed Thursday that he will propose free community college “for everybody who’s willing to work for it.

B&B gains Sandpoint council blessing

SANDPOINT — The Sandpoint City Council at its regular meeting Wednesday evening gave Bonner County planning officials its blessing — with some recommendations — regarding a conditional use permit for a proposed bed and breakfast bordering the city.

Daring rescue saves elk

BONNERS FERRY — A daring rescue by local farmers saved a pair of young cow elk from an icy grave during one of the snowiest days of the winter Monday.

Community prays for nation, leaders

SANDPOINT — Music played, the faithful swayed to the music and hands were raised in prayer as several hundred residents gathered at Farmin Park Thursday for the annual Day of Prayer.

Sandpoint will miss you, Pastor Steve

Steve Nickodemus, the founder and leader of the chaplaincy at Bonner General Health, has mentored many volunteer chaplains in sharing God’s love and compassion to those in the hospital.

Transportation plan needed in the county

It is time for the citizens of Bonner County to accept the fact that the railroads are here to stay. Spending time and taxpayer money trying to regulate the length of trains and the cargo they haul is a futile and costly effort at best.

Man pleads guilty to manslaughter

SANDPOINT — A Washington state man took responsibility Wednesday to accidentally killing another motorist on U.S. Highway 2 last year.

Change may be closer than people realize

The fundamental change Obama was talking about six years ago could be here in the next two years. This change would be from a capitalistic republic to a socialistic democracy. Here are some things to think about:

Farmin leads Sandpoint in trap shoot

SANDPOINT — Tim Farmin had his shooting eye sharp, nailing 23 of 25 targets to lead the Sandpoint Gun Club during the first week of the Spokesman Review Trap Shoot on Sunday.

The cold? The flu? How can you tell which it is?

You woke up this morning with a sore throat. Dry, scratchy, hurts to swallow sore throat.

Local skiers compete in Bend

Four Sandpoint Nordic Club skiers competed at the Pacific Northwest Ski Association Junior Qualifier Nordic race at Mt. Bachelor in Bend, Ore., last weekend.

Claim seeks damages from city, BGH over shooting

SANDPOINT — The husband of a Bonner County woman killed by Sandpoint Police is seeking $2 million in damages from the city and Bonner General Health.

Prison ordered for man who crashed into cop

SANDPOINT — A Washington state man accused of ramming a stolen truck into a Spirit Lake Police chief’s vehicle was ordered Tuesday to serve up five years in prison.

Non-wisdom only leads to ditch jobs

We can, if we choose, expand our understanding of democracy. We need to recognize that America is a real system. All real systems impersonally dictate how they must be operated. Thus we need to recognize that American is created and operated by the Godhead via its in-dwelling presence in our human lives. This in-dwelling grace and the wisdom thereof in action in our lives is provided to govern American as an under-God nation.

Why can't the city keep roads safe?

Just a quick little question. With a city budget adopted earlier this year that spends just a little shy of $40,000 per for every man woman and child figuring a population of 7,500; why can’t the city at least sand the nice icy intersections in town? Perhaps buying shiny new police cruisers ate up this budget?

Storm dumps massive amounts of snow

COEUR d’ALENE — Sunday’s snowfall was the largest one-day event since the massive snow storms that occurred in the winter of 2008.

SilverWing sought $5M settlement

SANDPOINT — Correspondence between attorneys in SilverWing at Sandpoint’s lawsuit against Bonner County indicates the company would settle the matter if the county paid at least $5 million in damages.

Let P&Z know permit doesn't have support

The notoriously winding, dusty and pothole-filled East Spring Creek Road near Clark Fork may get worse. If the Bonner County Planning Department approves Conditional Use Permit #C976-14 for Shadow Valley Camp, this will happen. This proposed commercial facility will include 25 cabins, one two-story house, a new 3,600-square-foot lodge, a 1,100-square-foot bathhouse and more. It will have a capacity of 75 people.

Technology, software add bright note to community's economy

SANDPOINT — In a very mixed year for the Bonner County economy, an unexpected industry — software and technology — is gaining greater importance.

Christmas spirit and The Golden Rule

Great article by Keith Kinnaird in the Jan. 1, 2015, Daily Bee about the wonderful rescue by the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office’s Marine Division of two dogs from the steep cliffs of the Green Monarch Mountains after spending two frigid nights completely exposed to the elements. Certainly these dogs and their companion people were so relieved to be reunited after fearing for their lives. Kudos to all involved in this rescue!

Guns should be kept at home

First let me say, I believe in the public’s right to own a gun. I’m not anti-Second Amendment, I’m pro gun regulation. I’m not a gun owner myself, but I know many here in North Idaho own many guns. The sheer numbers of guns per capita here astounds me. Lots of folks that live up here, hunt and fish for fun and food. I support those that own for recreation.

County seeks clarity on MLS data disclosures

SANDPOINT — Bonner County is seeking an opinion from the Idaho Attorney General’s office whether it can withhold real estate sales data generated by the Selkirk Association of Realtors’ multiple listing service.

Wampus Cats fall short

CLARK FORK — Eich Anderson and Geoffrey Boudousquie each had strong games, but Clark Fork simply couldn’t match the depth and speed of Selkirk in a 50-21 loss in nonleague boys basketball on Saturday at Clark Fork High School.

Speed, alcohol factors in deadly traffic crashes

SANDPOINT — Excessive speed and intoxication were factors in unrelated crashes that claimed the lives of two people in Bonner County last summer.

Sandpoint has all the good winter weather

I see that Sandpoint has all the good winter weather. It is 9 degrees and clear. We are suffering with 36 degrees and partly cloudy. What is going on?

Shooting resulted in a loss of innocence

The killing of a pregnant Jeanetta Riley, 35, outside the Bonner General Health on July 8, 2014, by Sandpoint Police officers was unnecessary and has caused Sandpoint to lose whatever innocence it had left at the time.

Literacy finds ally in Book Trust

Program for first-graders goes districtwide

SANDPOINT — Never underestimate the power of a good book. Even in a world where technology crowds out simple joys such as opening a cover and turning real pages, the printed word is quietly turning the tide.

A formula for a terrible tragedy

The Bonner County Human Rights Task Force’s report on the death of Jeanetta Riley is a great service to the community. It balances firm compassion with disciplined investigation and considerable courage.

There are huge issues looming ahead for us

I’ll try to be brief, however, there are huge issues looming for us. It started with an unasked “offer” from Macy’s to partake in a pledge to cash in on a credit offer. What? I don’t wear rubies or diamonds and I can’t think of using any of their arrays of perfumes. How did they find me? Rather than politely “unsubscribing” as a proper subservient buyer would do I became so irritated that I created some awfully some rather new derogatory and only imagined responses that still linger in a bitter aftertaste in my craw.

Derby has no place in Trout Creek area

The “Varmint Derby” which was quickly renamed the “Great Montana Coyote and Wolf Hunt” is coming to Sanders County this month. Originally this event was going to be hosted at the Lakeside Resort in Trout Creek, with support of the Sportsmen of Sanders County, whoever they are.

Twilight ski and snowboard specials on tap at Schweitzer

SANDPOINT — The Schweitzer Mountain Twilight Ski and Snowboard special is back, and just in time for the latest and most significant snowfall of the season. 

Charge elevated in stabbing case

SANDPOINT — A felony charge against a Sandpoint man implicated in a stabbing is being upgraded to attempted murder.

SilverWing: No $5M settlement offer

SANDPOINT — SilverWing at Sandpoint is shooting down a claim that it offered to settle its lawsuit against Bonner County for $5 million.

Judge explains ruling rationale

SANDPOINT — A former Bonner County man convicted of murder and other crimes in North Dakota apologized for the suffering he’s imposed, but reiterated that he meant no harm in a shooting death.

Empire Builder route back on track

SANDPOINT — Amtrak is slated to resume operating its Empire Builder on its regular schedule in both directions this month.

TOPSoccer is now open for winter registration

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint Soccer Association and Sandpoint Parks and Recreation bring this exciting program to you for another year. TOPS is now accepting registration forms for the winter 2015 TOPSoccer program.

Teen arrested on battery charge

SANDPOINT — An 18-year-old Sandpoint man was arrested on Wednesday for allegedly stabbing another man during an altercation.

County seeks vote in Tongue River proposal

(Editor's note: This story has been updated to correct an erroneous figure involving the amount of coal the proposed rail line is expected to generate.

'Just a tragic accident'

Details unfold in accidental shooting

COEUR d’ALENE — Veronica “Roni” Rutledge’s family prefers to remain private when it comes to the media, but after seeing all the criticism of her on social media they wanted to set the record straight.

Meaningful debt reform possible in 2015

As you know, it has been a busy couple of weeks in Congress and we have made some bittersweet progress in fighting for our great state of Idaho. On the sweeter side, two of my bills combating federal land control are headed to the president and should become law.

Bulldog boys and girls win final games of year

COEUR d’ALENE — The one-two punch of junior Madi Schoening and freshman Grace Kirscher once again helped lead Sandpoint to a win, downing Grangeville 44-36 on Wednesday in the final consolation game of the Coeur d’Alene Winter Classic.

BSCO volunteers rescue dogs trapped at Green Monarchs

CLARK FORK — The Bonner County sheriff’s officials rescued two hunting dogs Tuesday that spent two frigid nights trapped on the steep and rugged flanks of Green Monarch Mountain on Lake Pend Oreille.

Public ignorance must be turned into wisdom

Public ignorance must turn into wisdom. In fact, democracy is ideal for blind leaders.

U.S. is governed by a cabal of nincompoops

I’m sure Bob Wynhausen would like us to believe that we are governed by a plutocracy. A plutocracy being a government by the very wealthy. I’m also sure that he knows it’s far from true.