Stories for June 2015

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Tuesday, June 30

June 30, 2015 7 a.m.

Local pilot killed in Alaskan plane crash

HOPE — Local pilot Bryan Krill died Thursday when the de Havilland DHC-3 Otter turboprop float plane he was piloting crashed in what was described as unsettled weather about 25 miles northeast of Ketchikan, Alaska, during a charter sightseeing tour.

June 30, 2015 7 a.m.

SHS grad Hadley competes in last Ironman

COEUR d’ALENE — Being from the surrounding area of Coeur d’Alene, the one thing you can prepare for when competing in the annual Ironman event is the course itself.

June 30, 2015 7 a.m.

Charge pending in Bloom Lake shooting

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man was arrested for shooting another man during an altercation at Bloom Lake on Sunday afternoon.

June 30, 2015 7 a.m.

Judge finds no probable cause in crash

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County Magistrate Court judge declined to find probable cause Thursday to support an inattentive driving charge against a sheriff’s deputy who was involved in a crash last month.

June 30, 2015 7 a.m.

Protesters don't care about the real issues

I just had a taste of the power-tripping narcissists posing as pro-lifers at the Farmer’s Market. They and the other extremists who constantly write letters of Obama hate, etc. really think they are going to change a national issue here in little old Sandpoint?

June 30, 2015 7 a.m.

Maybe it's time to become a Luddite

As I was stuck in the daily traffic jam as predicted would happen on the Sand Creek bypass, I thought of a solution to the oil train problem.

June 30, 2015 7 a.m.

Fear helps keep 'vocal minority' in check

About the police killing of a pregnant Jeanetta Riley, Sandpoint Mayor Carrie Logan stated, “The initial public response … was mixed with a vocal minority being very critical of the police.” She goes on to say, “once the investigation had been completed and we were able to fully release the information, there has been a lot of support for the Sandpoint Police Department with continued criticism by a vocal minority.”

Saturday, June 27

June 27, 2015 7 a.m.

Sandpoint Special Olympians shine at state games

SANDPOINT — The Sandpoint Special Olympics team posted a strong showing recently at the Idaho State Summer Olympics in Moscow, representing their hometown with pride.

June 27, 2015 7 a.m.

Former BF resident imprisoned in ATM thefts

BOISE — A former Bonners Ferry resident was sentenced to more than 18 years in prison on Monday for a string of ATM larcenies.

June 27, 2015 7 a.m.

Local jobless rate shows improvement

SANDPOINT — Bonner County’s jobless rate is going down.

June 27, 2015 7 a.m.

Study notes area's economic sustainability

SANDPOINT — Is Bonner County on the cusp of an economic sea change? It may be, if it can overcome some challenges.

June 27, 2015 7 a.m.

Court hears convicted killer's appeal

SANDPOINT — The North Dakota Supreme Court is considering an appeal filed by a former Bonner County man convicted of murder, according to the Bismarck Tribune.

Friday, June 26

June 26, 2015 9 p.m.

Panel: As exports climb, so will train traffic

SANDPOINT — Former presidential candidate Ross Perot coined the phrase, “giant sucking sound,” during his failed 1992 presidential bid. He was referring to the sound American jobs would make when they were sucked offshore to cheaper labor markets in developing countries overseas should the then-proposed North American Free Trade Agreement be approved.

June 26, 2015 7 a.m.

Event serves up support for public officials

SANDPOINT — Firefighters and law enforcement officers will be facing off Saturday — across the softball field, that is.

June 26, 2015 7 a.m.

Charge is pending in fatal crash

SANDPOINT — A Coeur d’Alene man is going to be charged with vehicular manslaughter in connection with deadly rollover crash earlier this month.

June 26, 2015 7 a.m.

Adventure Series hikes announced

SANDPOINT — In its ninth summer, the Idaho Conservation League Adventure Series in North Idaho features day hikes of varying difficulty, paddle trips on both Lake Pend Oreille and Lake Coeur d’Alene and campsite and trail maintenance volunteer opportunities.

Thursday, June 25

June 25, 2015 9 p.m.

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June 25, 2015 7 a.m.

Oil train numbers keep going up

The number of trains hauling crude oil, ethanol, and coal through northern Idaho keeps growing. Here are the facts:

June 25, 2015 7 a.m.

Trio pick up victories at Summer Solstice Swim Meet

SANDPOINT — Jacob Ballard, 12, won the 50 fly, 50 free and 200 fly to lead a strong showing by the Sandpoint Sharks swim team, which sent a strong squad to the recent Summer Solstice Swim Meet in Spokane.

June 25, 2015 7 a.m.

It truly takes a village to make an old lady happy

It sometimes takes a village to make an old lady really, really happy. That’s precisely what happened to me and three other area women in the days leading up to and including Saturday, June 13.

June 25, 2015 7 a.m.

FOIA failure prompts lawsuit

SANDPOINT — Failure to respond to a public information request is resulting in a lawsuit against the federal government.

June 25, 2015 7 a.m.

9-11 report was completely false

How often are we subjected in the print and electronic media to the fiction that Middle Eastern terrorists were responsible for the disasters at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon? Surely, those editors and commentators are aware of the many refutations by reputable scientists and engineers and of the statements by members of the Congressional 9-11 Investigating Commission that the Administration refused to cooperate and that the commission’s report was completely false.

Pot patches discovered in Clark Fork Delta
June 25, 2015 7 a.m.

Pot patches discovered in Clark Fork Delta

CLARK FORK — Restoration work on the Clark Fork Delta has lifted the lid on outdoor marijuana growing operations, according to the Idaho Department of Fish & Game.

June 25, 2015 7 a.m.

Sentence to stand in manslaughter

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County Magistrate Court judge declined on Wednesday to lessen the sentence imposed against a Washington state man who accidentally killed another motorist in a collision.

Wednesday, June 24

June 24, 2015 7 a.m.

Deputy ticketed for injury crash

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County sheriff’s deputy is being cited for reckless and/or inattentive driving in connection with a collision that injured to motorcyclists last month.

June 24, 2015 7 a.m.

Vertigo is not just the title of an old movie

If you’re a golf fan, you probably watched some or all of the U.S. Open last weekend. The tournament was played in Tacoma on a very difficult course.

June 24, 2015 7 a.m.

Man accused of opening fire on PR woman

SANDPOINT — A Priest River man was arrested on Monday night for allegedly opening fire on a woman.

June 24, 2015 7 a.m.

Cd'A Ironman moves start time up for potential heat

COEUR d’ALENE — An unusually high forecasted temperature prompted Ironman Coeur d’Alene organizers to start Sunday’s race slightly earlier.

June 24, 2015 7 a.m.

Monarchs down Rapids in North Idaho Cup

SANDPOINT — The Montana Rapids Premier of the Flathead Valley impressed with a young, talented squad full of collegiate players whose fitness tired the Monarchs first string and wore into the Monarchs’ deep bench.

Horse camp offers rein-y day fun
June 24, 2015 7 a.m.

Horse camp offers rein-y day fun

SANDPOINT — School may be out for Bonner County students, but for some the learning continues, but in a different classroom environment: the back of a horse.

Tuesday, June 23

June 23, 2015 7 a.m.

Gun control argument misses the point

As a retired police chief, what I’m going to say may sound controversial but here it goes:

June 23, 2015 7 a.m.

Hull returns home to practice dentistry

Sandpoint native Dr. Ben Hull has returned home to practice dentistry with Dr. Michael Durnin in the beautiful Mountain West Bank building on Highway 2.

Police chase ends in crash
June 23, 2015 7 a.m.

Police chase ends in crash

SAGLE — A man was reportedly arrested Monday after trying to outrun law enforcement and crashing on U.S. Highway 95 at Pit Road.

June 23, 2015 7 a.m.

What has happened to this country?

What has happened to this country?

June 23, 2015 7 a.m.

County's actions reek of corruption

Liz and Matt Deen have owned their home on Cherry Lane (Clark Fork) since 2010.  The majority of their land is federally protected wetlands and floods every spring.

June 23, 2015 7 a.m.

Sign, article and photo are very misleading

The front page, above the fold, photo and article (June 17, Daily Bee) are misleading. There is no “no trespassing” sign on Walker or Dean’s property. It was apparently placed to sway the article toward the land owners.

Festival, friends mourn maestro
June 23, 2015 7 a.m.

Festival, friends mourn maestro

SANDPOINT — Pulitzer Prize-winning composer, musician, conductor, writer, and former Festival at Sandpoint artistic director Gunther Schuller died in Boston Sunday from undisclosed medical issues. He was 89.

June 23, 2015 7 a.m.

Bulldogs hold their own at Border League Camp

SANDPOINT — Despite being marred by a scary and unsavory ending, it was a great week of camp for the Bulldog football team, which went toe-to-toe with the biggest schools in the region and more than held its own.

June 23, 2015 7 a.m.

Risch to donate CoCC contribution

COEUR d’ALENE — U.S. Sen. Jim Risch will donate a $500 campaign contribution he received from the leader of a white separatist group reportedly cited in Charleston shooter Dylann Roof’s manifesto.

Sunday, June 21

June 21, 2015 9 p.m.

NAACP calls for continued investigation of hate mail

SPOKANE — The newly appointed president of the NAACP said Friday that the local chapter is still interested in finding out who mailed the threatening letters to the organization, but police say they have exhausted all leads.

June 21, 2015 7 a.m.

Avista Utilities seeks OK for new billing mechanism

COEUR d’ALENE — Avista Corp. no longer wants to be vulnerable to the whims of customer usage of electricity and natural gas — which is trending downward.

Family turns eyesores into public art
June 21, 2015 7 a.m.

Family turns eyesores into public art

SANDPOINT — Peter Goetzinger travels the country working a kind of artistic magic — he can make giant water tanks disappear into the surrounding landscape. Then again, he can make them stand boldly out from it, depending on what the client wants.

June 21, 2015 7 a.m.

Medical only versus fire-based EMS

This letter is to clear up the differences between Bonner County EMS and Selkirk Fire as well inform the public on the types of emergency medical services currently offered so you, the taxpayer, can make an educated decision.

June 21, 2015 7 a.m.

County road repair questioned

Last summer during a potential construction project, my wife, Donna Foth, and I were speaking with Gordon Bates, the then-director of the county Roads and Bridge Department. He stated that Bottle Bay Road had last been resurfaced nine years ago and was therefore scheduled to be resurfaced in 2015.

June 21, 2015 7 a.m.

Leave the dogs home; try plastic swans

Reading about the geese at City Beach reminded me of the geese in Illinois, our former home.

Saturday, June 20

June 20, 2015 7 a.m.

Unique open house blends art, architecture

Art and architecture are blending with the business of real estate with a unique open house.

June 20, 2015 7 a.m.

Farber excels in new role for SKLZ as manager

Sandpoint Native Brian Farber has been a star for the San Diego Sockers of the Major Indoor Soccer League since joining the team in the 2010-11 season, but suffered through his most frustrating professional season last year. Knee troubles persisted throughout the season, reducing Farber to a part-time contributor to the team.

June 20, 2015 7 a.m.

Hearing set in Wolf People license case

SANDPOINT — A June 30 hearing is set in Wolf People’s bid to thwart a license suspension for allowing the public direct contact with captive wolves at its Cocolalla facility.

June 20, 2015 7 a.m.

Underground drug culture hiding in plain sight

Galloway: ‘Be an active parent. Talk to your kids’

SANDPOINT — There is a widening generation gap that most parents are unaware of, one that has little to do with shifting world views or social values. It does have plenty to do with drugs and alcohol, however, and how, in today’s teenage and young adult world, those substances are found and consumed.

June 20, 2015 7 a.m.

Player cited after football melee

SPOKANE VALLEY — A varsity Coeur d’Alene High football player was cited for fourth-degree assault on Thursday after a melee at a scrimmage.

June 20, 2015 7 a.m.

Bulldogs taking love of running off to college

SANDPOINT — Continuing a positive recent trend, six more Sandpoint cross country runners will be in action in college next fall, as the Bulldog program continues to churn out strong runners with a desire to keep competing.

Friday, June 19

Sturgis, Team Laughing Dog ready to Race Across America
June 19, 2015 7 a.m.

Sturgis, Team Laughing Dog ready to Race Across America

SANDPOINT — For the fifth straight year, a team of cyclists from Sandpoint are set to traverse the United States, pedaling more than 3,000 miles as part of the annual Race Across America.

June 19, 2015 7 a.m.

Resolution is sought in road dispute

SANDPOINT — A hearing on a restraining order was called off Thursday in a access dispute involving Shadow Valley Lane near Clark Fork.

Northland Communications named top chamber business
June 19, 2015 7 a.m.

Northland Communications named top chamber business

SANDPOINT —The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce has named Northland Communications as its June business of the month.

June 19, 2015 7 a.m.

Swim lessons set for City Beach

SANDPOINT — It’s never too late or too early to learn how to swim. New this year, registration has begun for Sandpoint Parks and Rec swim lessons

June 19, 2015 7 a.m.

Property taxes on the rise in Elmira, Samuels

County:Increases reflect market value

SANDPOINT — Assessed values are on the climb in the Elmira and Samuels area, which is giving landowners a case of sticker shock.

Thursday, June 18

June 18, 2015 9 p.m.

#3568 RAPID LIGHTNING

Rapid Lightning Road Asphalt Pavement Bonner County, Idaho NOTICE OF ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Sealed Bids will be received by Bonner County at the office of the Bonner County Commissioners, 1500 Highway 2, Suite 308, Sandpoint, Idaho 83864 on or before the 1st day of June, 2015, until the hour of 1:10 p.m. for the Rapid Lightning Rd Asphalt Pavement Bid. The project generally consists of the following: Base Bid: 2.2 miles of Rapid Lightning Rd from the end of existing pavement to Upper Gold Creek intersection . Hauling new gravel, grading the new and existing gravel in preparation for new asphalt. Placing 6318 tons of new asphalt pavement over the prepared base. Placing gravel on shoulders and driveway approaches after paving. Bids will be opened in the office of the Commissioners on the 1st day of June, 2015, at 1:10 p.m. on said date. All interested individuals are welcome to attend. Bid forms, bidder's instructions, and specifications and contract forms may be examined at the following locations: • Bonner County Public Works Office, 1500 Hwy 2 Suite 101 , Sandpoint, ID 83864, Phone 208·255-5681 . Copies may be obtained at the office of the Bonner County Public Works. The standard set of contract documents includes the project drawings. All bids shall be presented or otherwise delivered to the Bonner County Commissioners under seal with a concise statement "SEALED BID --- RAPID LIGHTNING ROAD ASPHALT PAVEMENT" marked on the outside thereof identifying the expenditure to which the bid pertains. All bids shall contain one of the following forms of bidder's security in an amount equal to 5% of the amount bid: (a) Cash, (b) Cashiers Check made payable to the County, (c) Certified Check made payable to the County, or (d) bidder's bond executed by a qualified Idaho Surety Company, made payable to the County. Bids will remain subject to acceptance for 45 days after the bid opening. Davis-Bacon Wage Rates will not be applicable to this project. The right is reserved to reject any or all Bids. Dated this 5th day of May, 2015. Cary Kelly, Chairman Attested by: Darcy C. Smith Deputy Clerk SNP Legal 3568 May 15, 22, 2015

June 18, 2015 7:45 a.m.

Green Monarchs win tourney in Bonners Ferry

Ready to compete in home match on Friday night

SANDPOINT — Avenging decades of defeat experienced by Sandpoint’s soccer founders, the Green Monarch Football Club kicked off the summer tournament season last Sunday posting three dominant wins over northern hamlet teams from the Purcell trench. Sandpoint assembled a mixed squad, combining a handful of GMFC premier players, to supplement their masters division Grey Monarchs and a few standout Sandpoint women.

June 18, 2015 7 a.m.

Dogs' leavings are vexing to couple

My husband and I purchased a lovely home in the Ponder Point development about two years ago. We haven’t regretted the move one bit. The neighbors are cordial and friendly, the streets are swept clean, and everyone on out street is taking wonderful care of their homes and yards.

Friends remember David Logan as a man with a big heart
June 18, 2015 7 a.m.

Friends remember David Logan as a man with a big heart

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint head soccer coach Adam Tajan had a front row seat as Joab Logan wreaked havoc on goalies as one of the top high school soccer players in North Idaho for a couple years.

June 18, 2015 7 a.m.

God protect us from tyrannical governments

Below is a list of observations:

June 18, 2015 7 a.m.

We must elect world leadership wisdom

Next year, Americans will  select a new leader not only for America, but actually the world. That is more important than just winning the classic media game shows and  debates.

June 18, 2015 7 a.m.

Neighbors, smoke alarm key to stopping fire

SANDPOINT — A smoke alarm and a local couple are credited with a quick response to a fire that minimized what would likely have been a much more catastrophic event.

June 18, 2015 7 a.m.

Suit challenges no-jeopardy call on mine

SANDPOINT — A coalition of environmental groups filed suit in federal court Wednesday to challenge a U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service determination that the proposed Montanore mine would not jeopardize endangered bull trout and grizzly bear.

June 18, 2015 7 a.m.

Forum looks at oil trains

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Conservation League will be hosting an oil train forum titled, “Pipeline on Wheels Through North Idaho,” Wednesday, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Heartwood Center, 615 Oak St.

Wednesday, June 17

Panida Theater to close for ceiling repairs
June 17, 2015 7 a.m.

Panida Theater to close for ceiling repairs

Work part of ongoing effort to restore facility

SANDPOINT — The ongoing effort to restore the Panida Theater to its original grandeur is taking another step forward this summer with the refurbishment of the facility’s ceiling.

June 17, 2015 7 a.m.

Sandpoint chamber welcomes bed and breakfast

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce welcomed new member EstateOnTheLakeBandB.com last week with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted on the estate.

June 17, 2015 7 a.m.

Listen up: One in 10 will get swimmer's ear

Several years ago, a neighbor called to thank me for the column I had written that week. He told me that he had been suffering from an annoying pain in his ear and that when he read my article on otitis externa (also known as swimmer’s ear) he immediately knew that was what his problem was. His healthcare professional confirmed his self-diagnosis and he was treated and healed.

June 17, 2015 7 a.m.

Sandpoint softball players excelling at regional level

SANDPOINT — A trio of Sandpoint softball players are making their presence felt on some top level club teams in the region, and will get to play at some national-level tournaments this summer.

June 17, 2015 7 a.m.

Lewd conduct case dismissed

SANDPOINT — A lewd conduct case pending against a Sagle man has been dismissed with prejudice and without explanation.

Tuesday, June 16

June 16, 2015 7 a.m.

New 4x4 park opens in Athol

ATHOL — If one can find it, a 43-acre off-road 4x4 park paradise awaits.

June 16, 2015 7 a.m.

Let officials know how you feel about the lake

Jim McKiernan’s editorial raises an important issue — who controls our lake level and why isn’t Lake Pend Oreille kept at 2062.5 feet for at least six months out of the year?

June 16, 2015 7 a.m.

PTECH helps students chart their futures

We just finished our first year as a beta school with PTECH with one student graduating from high school this June, entering summer school in aerospace before she received her diploma. Several community members who confuse PTE (professional-technical education) with PTECH have asked me how this new program benefits students at Clark Fork High School, so I thought I’d add my thoughts here.

June 16, 2015 7 a.m.

Youth match play tennis week hits Sandpoint

SANDPOINT — Attention any and all youth looking to improve their tennis game: A youth match play tennis camp, open to any players between the ages of 8- to 12-years-old, will be held at Travers Park courts on June 22-26.

June 16, 2015 7 a.m.

Child's death still under investigation

SANDPOINT — The death of a 3-year-old boy who was found unconscious in an unattended vehicle remains under investigation, according to Bonner County sheriff’s officials.

June 16, 2015 7 a.m.

Students benefit from pair's generosity

On Page 3 of the June 11 Daily Bee, there is a picture and article about this year’s recipients of the Panhandle Alliance For Education. Everyone in the picture looks quite happy, and I’m certain that they are grateful to have some extra funding for their classrooms.

June 16, 2015 7 a.m.

Drawdown aided milfoil winter kill

DOVER — The deep drawdown of Lake Pend Oreille last winter  helped curb Eurasian milfoil growth, according to the Idaho State Department of Agriculture.

Sunday, June 14

June 14, 2015 7 a.m.

Day of the flag

COEUR d’ALENE — Often overlooked, Flag Day, which is today, is held in high regard by Roy Higgs.

June 14, 2015 7 a.m.

NAACP standing behind Dolezal

COEUR d’ALENE — The NAACP issued a statement Friday in response to the controversy regarding Rachel Dolezal’s ethnicity.

June 14, 2015 7 a.m.

Leniency sought in manslaughter

SANDPOINT — Leniency is being sought for a Washington state man who accidentally killed a woman in a collision on U.S. Highway 2 last year.

June 14, 2015 7 a.m.

Quake shakes Bonner County

SANDPOINT — A magnitude-3.1 earthquake was detected on Friday, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

Larson's at 75
June 14, 2015 7 a.m.

Larson's at 75

SANDPOINT — Larson’s Good Clothes has chalked up a monumental achievement — 75 years in business in the same downtown location.

Saturday, June 13

June 13, 2015 7 a.m.

Transformer malfunction cuts power

SANDPOINT — A reported transformer malfunction cut power throughout Sandpoint for about three hours on Friday evening.

June 13, 2015 7 a.m.

Lowrey enters into deal on ND charge

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County woman who was crowned Extreme Huntress is entering into a pretrial diversion agreement to resolve hunting violations in North Dakota.

June 13, 2015 7 a.m.

Suspects in case waive hearings

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man accused of lewd conduct and possession of sexually exploitive material waived his right to a preliminary hearing on Wednesday.

Friday, June 12

June 12, 2015 7 a.m.

Boy dies in vehicle

SPIRIT LAKE — A 3-year-old boy died Thursday after apparently becoming trapped inside an unattended vehicle parked at his home.

June 12, 2015 7 a.m.

Lewis named Kootenai mayor

Keough resigns after move outside the city

KOOTENAI — There is new leadership in the city of Kootenai , following the departure of Mayor Mike Keough.

June 12, 2015 7 a.m.

New counsel is sought in home-invasion case

SANDPOINT — Standby counsel for a North Idaho man implicated in a home-invasion robbery attempt last fall is asking to be removed from the case.

June 12, 2015 7 a.m.

Sandpoint Special Olympics team shines at regionals

SANDPOINT — A host of athletes claimed medals and had a fun time as the Sandpoint Special Olympics team competed at the regional meet in Moscow recently.

Thursday, June 11

June 11, 2015 7 a.m.

Public has the right to officials' emails

Mindy Cameron’s scathing guest opinion article, “Requests for Personal Email Inappropriate” of May 28, 2015, is a false representation of condition and facts. Cameron’s approach to malign honorable community members who seek transparency through legal process is repugnant.

June 11, 2015 7 a.m.

Bay Trail Fun Run raises more than $13,000

SANDPOINT — With scoring hot weather and some of the best scenery around serving as the backdrop, a record 344 participants hit the trails on Sunday during the third annual Bay Trail Fun Run in Sandpoint, taking part in 5K and 10K races.

June 11, 2015 7 a.m.

Poverty trapping many in vicious cycle

SANDPOINT — The city and the beauty of its natural surroundings gets plenty of kudos for being one of the best place to live, retire, and for generally being one the most beautiful places in America.

June 11, 2015 7 a.m.

Positive is action needed on lake level

Kudos to Jim McKiernan for his excellent and thought-provoking editorial on “What’s up with Lake Pend Oreille’s level?”

June 11, 2015 7 a.m.

Man accused of lewd conduct

SANDPOINT — A Sagle man was arrested Tuesday on allegations that he carried on a sexual relationship with an underage girl.

June 11, 2015 7 a.m.

No good life saving goes unpunished

COEUR d’ALENE — Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office deputy J.D. Allen got punched in the face by a drunk at the beach Tuesday night.

June 11, 2015 7 a.m.

Gosling's death was senseless, brutal act

May 21, 2015, is burned into my memory. My daughter and I, visiting from out of town, were witness to the senseless murder of a baby’s life.

Wednesday, June 10

June 10, 2015 9 p.m.

Wolf shooting trial continues

COEUR d’ALENE — Closing arguments and jury deliberations are scheduled for Thursday morning in the Rathdrum Mountain wolf-shooter case.

June 10, 2015 7 a.m.

Debate continues in Bonner EMS expansion

SANDPOINT – The Sagle Fire District remains optimistic that it can work out a new contract, but Bonner County is showing no sign of changing course in expanding its EMS service into Sagle.

June 10, 2015 7 a.m.

Take steps to protect your skin this summer

This week’s fabulous summer weather reminded me that it’s time for you to read my annual lecture on preventing sunburn.

June 10, 2015 7 a.m.

Former clerk is sentenced

COEUR d’ALENE — Sally Hansen was sentenced Tuesday to four years in prison for embezzling $417,879 from the city of Athol.

June 10, 2015 7 a.m.

PBCA announces playhouse auction

Everyone enjoys playing in playhouses and the Panhandle Building Contractors Association is offering the opportunity to own one of three unique playhouses.

June 10, 2015 7 a.m.

Bulldog Nation Football Raffle another raving success

SANDPOINT — A red army of youth football players in jerseys hit the local streets and businesses recently to sell raffle tickets for the annual Bulldog Football Nation car raffle.

Tuesday, June 9

June 9, 2015 7 a.m.

Upbeat attitude is a welcome change

Thanks for the guest opinion telling us about the upbeat approach to politics so dearly needed these days. Being positive is a good thing and a refreshing change.

June 9, 2015 7 a.m.

Tiny Hawk and Mini Hawk sports camps coming soon

SANDPOINT — You’re never too young to learn the life sport of tennis, and opportunities abound for the youth of Sandpoint this summer to do just that.

June 9, 2015 7 a.m.

Alcohol a factor in fatal crash

PRIEST RIVER — Alcohol impairment was a contributing circumstance in a Highway 57 crash that claimed the life of a Priest River man last spring.

June 9, 2015 7 a.m.

Trial starts today in wolf shooting

COEUR d’ALENE — A jury trial is under way today for the man who shot a wolf on Rathdrum Mountain while out walking his dogs near his home.

SHS students tabbed to lead Fourth of July parade
June 9, 2015 7 a.m.

SHS students tabbed to lead Fourth of July parade

SANDPOINT — The Sandpoint Lions Club has named its grand marshal for this year’s July Fourth Parade, and it’s a doozy: the entire Sandpoint High School student body.

June 9, 2015 7 a.m.

VA program gets necessary changes

In March, I wrote about working with Idaho veterans to press for needed changes to the Veterans Choice program to ensure that Idaho veterans can access the services they so greatly deserve.

June 9, 2015 7 a.m.

Crews should return and do the job right

Why does this happen every time it rains — the water collects in a big puddle on Superior Street parallel to the 45 mph sign on the right side of the street leaving Sandpoint going toward the Long Bridge? Can’t this be repaired? The city puts up signs that say “water over road.” Gee, that’s just swell.

Sunday, June 7

June 7, 2015 7 a.m.

Railroad response plan awaits approval

DOVER — BNSF Railway is finalizing a geographic response plan for hazardous materials spills in the Panhandle’s three northern counties, according to Bob Howard, director of Bonner County Emergency Management.

June 7, 2015 7 a.m.

Be aware and drive safely on roadway

I have just come from the home of Kathy Ginter. What I found there tore my heart out.

Take a Seat turns chairs into fine art
June 7, 2015 7 a.m.

Take a Seat turns chairs into fine art

SANDPOINT — On June 12, about 40 different chairs will make the transition from furniture to fine art. It happens every other year, as NAMI Far North holds its dinner-auction fundraiser to help improve the lives of those affected by mental illness.

June 7, 2015 7 a.m.

What's up with Lake Pend Oreille's level?

Obviously I am new to the area. I remind folks of that every day as I mispronounce a street or city name. The biggest reminder, however, is when I drive the wrong way down a one-way street — something I have done several times.

Saturday, June 6

June 6, 2015 7 a.m.

Firefighters prepare as weather heats up

COEUR d’ALENE — The North Idaho Wildfire Training Zone hosted a weeklong wildlands fire training course at Camp Lutherhaven this week. More than 300 firefighters attended the annual Guard School event.

June 6, 2015 7 a.m.

Police: Renfro kept criminal company

COEUR d’ALENE — The man accused of shooting Coeur d’Alene Police Officer Greg Moore also likely has ties to a home raided for guns, drugs and stolen property.

June 6, 2015 7 a.m.

Man is rescued after Long Bridge jump

SAGLE — Firefighters from Sagle and Sandpoint rescued a man from the Pend Oreille River after he jumped off the Long Bridge early Friday morning.

June 6, 2015 7 a.m.

Washington wins team title at LPOSD elementary track and field meet

CLARK FORK — Hundred of elementary students from the Lake Pend Oreille School District took part in the annual track and field meet at Clark Fork High School.

Friday, June 5

June 5, 2015 7 a.m.

Street light fees questioned

SANDPOINT — When is a municipal fee really a tax in disguise? According to one North Idaho resident, when it’s not charged to an individual person for a specific service.

June 5, 2015 7 a.m.

BGH names skywalk after Jack Parker

SANDPOINT — Bonner General Health is naming its skywalk after longtime hospital board member and community leader Jack Parker.

Soccer raffle benefits slain Cd'A officer
June 5, 2015 7 a.m.

Soccer raffle benefits slain Cd'A officer

A young Sting soccer player sacrificed his most prized possession to help the family of a fellow player.

June 5, 2015 7 a.m.

Sandpoint athletes excelling in classroom

There were a lot of impressive numbers posted this spring sports season, which recently ended, putting the finishing touches on another great season at Sandpoint and Clark Fork high schools.

Thursday, June 4

June 4, 2015 7 a.m.

U.S. 95 crash kills motorist

ELMIRA — A Sandpoint woman died following a three-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 95 in Elmira on Tuesday.

June 4, 2015 7 a.m.

Grimm: Board must be more open

SANDPOINT — The Sandpoint Urban Renewal Agency is going to become more transparent, that is if one commissioner has his way.

June 4, 2015 7 a.m.

Legion 16U team starts season with a sweep

SANDPOINT — The 16U American Legion Sandpoint VeriFunds.net Dawgs kicked off the pre-season with a three-game sweep against Northern Lakes and Libby, Mont., this past weekend. 

June 4, 2015 7 a.m.

Kinderhaven announces new board members

SANDPOINT — Kinderhaven, a home for abused and neglected children in the greater Sandpoint area, has announced the addition of four members to the Kinderhaven Board — Dave Deeds, Alana Hatcher, Teri Nickisch, and Megan Johnson.

June 4, 2015 7 a.m.

NIFRW spreading the Republican word

North Idaho Federated Republican Women board members have been championing the message that Republicans are united in traditional Republican beliefs in Bonner and Boundary counties since its inception. The message is being heard and membership is growing exponentially.

June 4, 2015 7 a.m.

Remember wording of the Constitution

The mean-spirited letter from Ms. Louise Cruise exposed the underlying weakness of those who blindly criticize anyone who opposes the view of supporters of big government.

June 4, 2015 7 a.m.

Be careful, scammers are back in the county

Let the public beware. The fly-by-night seal coat/chip seal/waterproofing, etc., non-local people are back to scam you out of your hard earned money.

June 4, 2015 7 a.m.

Siding project raises concerns

BONNERS FERRY — Neighbors are up in arms about a two-mile stretch of the Union Pacific Railroad’s track along Moyie River Road in the permitting and design process to add a two-mile siding between the twin bridges over the Moyie River and Snyder Guard Station.

Wednesday, June 3

June 3, 2015 7:42 p.m.

SL Police, BCSO ink mutual aid agreement

SPIRIT LAKE — Spirit Lake Police is now cross-deputized with the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office.

June 3, 2015 7 a.m.

Venue change is sought in lewd case

SANDPOINT — A North Idaho man awaiting trial on lewd conduct charges is seeking a change of venue and the disqualification of 1st District Judge Barbara Buchanan.

June 3, 2015 7 a.m.

STCU offering Money Camp

STCU is hosting a free Money Camp in Sandpoint as part of its longstanding tradition of providing financial education to people of all ages.

June 3, 2015 7 a.m.

Brass tabbed head coach of Sandpoint track team

SANDPOINT — As a senior in 1994, Matt Brass ran the 800 meters for Sandpoint and longtime head coach Dave DeMers.

June 3, 2015 7 a.m.

Paddler's Challenge offers up fun on scenic Sand Creek

SANDPOINT — Whether you like to leave a wake when you paddle, or prefer a more leisurely pace, the 7th annual Sand Creek Paddler’s Challenge is for you.

June 3, 2015 7 a.m.

Stigma biggest obstacle to preventing tragedy

Perusse: Be blunt if you think someone is considering suicide

SANDPOINT — Suicide is a socially touchy subject: taboo. Many people dance around the topic, fearful that discussing it with someone they suspect may be considering taking their own life might give the person the final push to complete the act.

Tuesday, June 2

June 2, 2015 7 a.m.

Revised Clean Water Rule released

On May 27, 2015, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers finalized their proposed Clean Water Rule to protect the streams and wetlands that form the foundation of the nation’s water resources from pollution and degradation.

June 2, 2015 7 a.m.

Stand down not being held

SANDPOINT — There will be no Veterans Stand Down in Bonner County this year.

June 2, 2015 7 a.m.

Region's officers part of torch run

COEUR d’ALENE — On Tuesday, Wayne Longo began a journey across the country to promote this year’s Special Olympics.

June 2, 2015 7 a.m.

Adult tennis lessons offered

SANDPOINT — Ever wanted to learn how to play tennis, or maybe refine the skills you do have?

June 2, 2015 7 a.m.

System protects us from foreign takeover

I was once again intrigued by the fascinating facts put forth by writers of letters to the editor on May 26. I was so flabbergasted by some of the things that are reportedly going on in this country that I’d better learn more. So I checked things out like any critical thinker.

Community celebrates depot's new start
June 2, 2015 7 a.m.

Community celebrates depot's new start

SANDPOINT — As officials gathered Saturday afternoon on the platform of the Sandpoint Depot to rededicate the 1916 depot, a grain train rumbled past, the honking of the horn and clanking of the bells mixing with the laughter and applause from the crowd.

June 2, 2015 7 a.m.

Sandpoint receives 'most livable' honors

Livability.com has just released its inaugural Top 100 Best Small Towns list, an expanded edition of our annual Top 10 Small Towns index.

June 2, 2015 7 a.m.

Country has a lot to remember

America has lots to remember including the fact that the operation of America is the natural consequence of the fact that we live in a real universe under a real godhead that creates, sustains and operates human life via its indwelling presence in human life.

Monday, June 1

June 1, 2015 9 p.m.

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