Ellington

One-room schools are back in fashion

“What goes around comes around.” “History repeats itself.” “Ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny.” “Deja vu all over again.”

County seeks permanent access at Bonner Park West

PRIEST RIVER — An access disagreement is emerging as the city and private developers assemble a comprehensive waterfront plan that embraces the Pend Oreille River and ties into downtown revitalization.

You're right, police are to blame for violence

I am writing this in hopes that you will share with other who I undoubtedly owe an apology. I admit I am old, set in my ways and repeatedly have defended the actions of the police across the country, I was wrong and what I saw on TV today convinced me that the “police” are the common denominator in all the violence that has taken place across the country.

Keokee presses past quarter century mark

Sandpoint firm thrives in changing industry

SANDPOINT — Twenty-five years in the publishing trade will take you through some big changes. Not Gutenberg Press kind of big, perhaps, but substantial enough to require a name change and a revised approach to corralling words and getting them in front of readers.

Area landmarks receive Orchid Awards

SANDPOINT — With three local historic buildings earning honors at Saturday’s Orchid and Onion Awards ceremony, it was very much Sandpoint’s party.

Spend quality time with your children

Three days ago, my 5-year-old daughter fell off a stool and the stool came down hard on my big, shoeless toe.

Motorcyclists hurt in crash with deputy

SAGLE — Two motorcyclists from Priest River were injured Friday when they were struck by a Bonner County sheriff deputy’s sport utility vehicle on U.S. Highway 95.

Report: Parts of Panhandle in 'severe drought'

COEUR d’ALENE — Kootenai and Benewah counties, and half of Bonner County, are in “severe drought,” according to the U.S. Drought Monitor’s newest report.

Dog shot, killed after mistaken for wolf

BONNERS FERRY — An Eastport couple is still reeling and charges may be pending after a man on a four-wheeler shot two dogs on a U.S. Forest Service road on May 17, believing one of them to be a wolf.

Area youth compete in community track meet

SANDPOINT — Area youth from 9-14 years-old recently took part in the first ever Sandpoint Community Track and Field Meet, formerly Hershey’s.

Study: Priest Lake has fewer lake trout than thought

PRIEST RIVER — Among the most surprising findings of the Idaho Department of Fish & Game’s study of the Priest Lake fishery: There are far less lake trout in Priest Lake than previously thought.

Elks offers three summer youth golfing programs

SANDPOINT — The Sandpoint Elks Lodge No. 1376 is offering a superb youth golf program: Hook A Kid On Golf 2015. Sign up begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 30 and takes place at the Elks Lodge, 30196 Highway 200 in Ponderay. Signups will be first come first serve.

P&Z takes up code change proposals

SANDPOINT — The Bonner County Planning & Zoning Commission is considering land use code amendments addressing retreat standards and shooting ranges.

Man jailed in Newport shooting

NEWPORT — An Oldtown man has been jailed for a Wednesday morning shooting in Newport.

Protesters picked wrong time, place

The people who enter their vehicles in our annual “Lost in the ’50s” show on Saturday pay good money for the space they take up for said entered vehicles. I have never, ever, heard a single one of them really complain about this as they all know it’s what makes it work.

Board dismisses Careywood post office appeal

CAREYWOOD — The U.S. Postal Regulatory Commission is dismissing the appeal that sought to undo the closure of the Careywood post office.

Hotel Ruby celebrates new addition, remodel

PONDERAY — Hotel Ruby will celebrate its new addition and new look at an open house today.

Shelter pups out of quarantine

PONDERAY — The Panhandle Animal Shelter reports that 10 puppies diagnosed with canine distemper have been released from quarantine and will soon be in new homes.

Are Common Core, relativism connected?

Does Common Core have an insidious element of relativism in it, or an element that could lead to relativism? When I first heard about it, that is the first thing that came to my mind, and the more I learned, the more I questioned. Something to think about.

Ride smart and follow the rules

So, is a bike a vehicle or a pedestrian? In Sandpoint, they are both — depending upon the choice of the cyclist. It’s dangerous for both the driver of the vehicle and dangerous for the cyclist.

Requests for personal emails inappropriate

In the 11 years I have been a member of the Lake Pend Oreille School Board, requests to examine public records have been few and far between. Since March, between them Dan and Kathy Rose have submitted six such requests, some of them requiring considerable — and costly — staff time to prepare.

Quest soars in successful EBACE debut

SANDPOINT — Quest Aircraft Company had a successful debut at last week’s European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition, which included a deal signing for a Kodiak with a European customer.

SHS to host college recruitment guru

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint High School is inviting you to spend an evening with recruitment guru Jack Renkens as he explores the myths and presents the realities of college recruiting.

Don't get ticked by creepy, crawly ticks

A reader called last week to say that she’d had a close encounter with a tick, and that this may be a good topic for this column since she’s pretty sure she won’t be alone this season. And, she’s right. The word is that because of our extremely mild winter, we just may have a very buggy warm-weather year.

Gosling killing upsets visitor

SANDPOINT — The city is finding success in using Border collies to haze Canada geese at City Beach, but there was some collateral damage earlier this month.

Plea resolves case against former county clerk

Community service, probation ordered in Dutson-Sater case

SANDPOINT — Former Bonner County Clerk Ann Dutson-Sater pleaded guilty Tuesday to a reduced charge in connection with her mishandling of a failed Lake Pend Oreille School District trustee recall election.

Peperzak: 'Respect your fellow humans'

SANDPOINT — It took her 35 years to be slowly drawn back to the religion she turned her back upon after the war.

THANKFUL

Lakes board meets June 4

DOVER — Mining proposals, hazardous materials response plans and Albeni Falls’ role in the Columbia River power system will be discussed when the Idaho Lakes Commission meets on Thursday, June 4.

Overpopulation is a growing problem

Every day, 340,000 humans are born on this planet; 10,800 of them here in the U.S. that’s daily, folks. My question is, why do we continue to freely reproduce when our species already overpopulates this planet?

Future bright for Bulldog baseball team

SANDPOINT — In one of the best baseball seasons in recent memory, the Bulldog boys won 10 games and showed that baseball is on an upswing, with a host of underclassmen having strong seasons.

Scott underappreciated for her integrity, ability

There’s something very wrong with SB 1067 child support legislation. Common sense indicates that if the government was truly interested in assisting children, it would be a simple process in providing the state of Idaho access to the database and procedure in collecting monies from deadbeat parents.

Not guilty plea in child porn case

SANDPOINT — A Kootenai man pleaded not guilty last week to possessing child pornography.

More radical legislators are now marginalized

This has been a great time for good public policy and for the mainstream voter.

Another law for the children unnecessary

Taryn Thompson, ex-Hagadone News Network reporter, pictured with her husband and ex-husband on April 15, received a lot of ink regarding her comments which she and Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter seemed to demand enactment. Thompson and Otter offer little information regarding the legislation. Otter stated, “Health officials have given the state a June 12 deadline to remedy the noncompliance.” Health officials pass laws? What treaties and what countries involved? If this is a U.N. affair, Sharia law is a major concern.

City needs to use existing system

If you see a Sandpoint water meter reader, give them a big hug. In fact hold on tightly because they may be a leprechaun with the proverbial pot of gold!

Where did all of the people go?

It is a shame that the state, county, or Idaho Transportation Department officials can’t count.

Life Care Center goes extra mile

The Life Care Center in Sandpoint and their people deserve recognition for the level of care and the effort they put in daily.

Bonner Partners in Care spreads safety net

Volunteers bring health care to area’s uninsured, underinsured

SANDPOINT — Despite the advent of the Affordable Care for America Act, millions of Americans still go without health insurance or have been sold insurance with such onerous deductibles that the coverage is useless to them.

Athol clerk sentencing set

ATHOL — The U.S. Attorney’s Office Thursday recommended four years of prison for Sally Hansen, who pleaded guilty to embezzling $417,879 from the city of Athol.

Authorities could be more transparent

I so much appreciated your report of May 15, Lee Hughes, regarding the Farmin-Stidwell lockdown, presented from the parents’ point of view. I’m no journalist, but I thought it was excellent. Even though my kids are grown, and none of my grandkids go to school there, I empathized with these parents.

Tail gunner recalls world war, service

After service, path leads Wythe into architecture

SANDPOINT — Joseph Henry Wythe was a 21-year-old architecture student studying for an exam at the University of California, Berkley School of Architecture, when the music on his transistor radio was suddenly interrupted with a news bulletin: the Japanese Navy had just bombed Pearl Harbor.

Dyno the dog brings lots of laughter, joy

Paws up.

People should be the ultimate power

“… Whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these rights … ( “… certain unalienable Rights …”) … it is the Right of the People to alter … and to institute new Government …”

Clark Fork to play host to LPOSD elementary track meet

CLARK FORK — Once again, Clark Fork will play host to the popular and fun Lake Pend Oreille School District Elementary School Track and Field Meet, on Friday, May 29 at the track in Clark Fork.

Child sex abuse case expanding

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County child sex abuse case is deepening and widening.

Practice makes perfect: Sagle students prepare for emergencies

Drill helps school put safety lessons to the test

SAGLE — Faculty and students of Sagle Elementary participated in drills Friday, practice for a real emergency.

Memorial Day tributes planned

SANDPOINT — Community members are invited to attend one of several Memorial Day tributes being held in the county.

Teens accused of SHS vandalism

SANDPOINT — Two teens have been arrested in connection with a vandalism spree at Sandpoint High School that caused more than $2,400 in damage.

Recount reveals winner in trustee race

PRIEST RIVER — In yet another twist in West Bonner County School District’s Zone 5 trustee election, a recount on Thursday revealed a true winner in the race after initial numbers showed a tie between two of the candidates.

Edlund, Dewey and Sundquist earn All-IEL honors

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint sophomore Caleb Edlund flirted with the school record for batting average, before finishing the season with a scintillating .472 average, earning the Newcomer of the Year Award on the 4A All-Inland Empire League baseball team, as voted on recently by the league’s coaches.

Solis wins '72 Dodge Dart Swinger in raffle

SANDPOINT — When David Solis checked his phone and saw that he had seven messages waiting for him, his first thought was that a family member had died.

Program's individual focus adds up to student success

SANDPOINT — Most adults have experienced the standard U.S. public school teaching model: you sit in class and a teacher talks at you. You and your fellow classmates study the same subject, at the same academic level, and at the same time in a linear fashion. Whether you are actually prepared or capable of working at that level — or beyond it — isn’t considered.

'He's a Bulldog through and through'

Dave DeMers tenders resignation as track coach at Sandpoint

SANDPOINT — Born and raised in Sandpoint, and certainly one of if not the top athletes the town ever produced, Dave DeMers went on to have a successful career as the head coach of the Bulldog track team for 27 years.

Why don't railroads run at lower speeds?

So another oil train tank car explosion in North Dakota. No one hurt, just a small town evacuated. Cars carrying crude oil derailed and exploded. What would happen it that occurred on the Long Bridge or in Sandpoint or any other populated area?

Thin turnout marks consolidated election

SANDPOINT — According to county officials, Tuesday’s election didn’t get many Bonner County voters excited enough to get out and vote.

Concert was one of the best shows ever

I am so happy that I attended the recent packed show at the Panida honoring Charley Packard. What an line-up of talented musicians. It was one of the best shows I have experienced here in Sandpoint, and this town knows how to celebrate good music. Every song performed was one authored by Mr. Packard, and it seemed each performer did his or her best to honor the song.

Show was tribute to Charley, community

My husband and I had the pleasure and the privilege to be in attendance Friday evening for the tribute and benefit to honor Charley Packard and his music at the Panida Theater.

National cycling route designated in county

SANDPOINT — Idaho is officially part of a U.S. Bike Route 10, an interstate cycling route that spans from northwestern Washington state to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Reed's contributions, grace will be missed

Almost 40 years ago I and former Sandpoint Mayor Gretchen Hellar attended a meeting in Coeur d’Alene to hear a simple man with a wonderful smile and demeanor speak. His name was Scott Reed.

Water leak workshop on tap

SANDPOINT — The devil is in the details, as the saying goes, and the City Council got wound up in them at its regular meeting Wednesday night.

Lovell wins local qualifier for U.S. Open Golf Championship

SANDPOINT — One of the unique aspects of the U.S. Open Golf Championships is that unlike most majors, thousands of golfers from around the world get a chance to qualify for the prestigious golf tournament at 111 sites across the U.S.

Community's support is a true blessing

I was recently honored and blessed beyond any, and all, expectations by a sell-out audience at the beautiful Panida Theater, and the remarkable performances of a selection of my songs by so many talented friends.

Trio of Bulldogs earn All-IEL softball honors

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint freshman Bri Baldree was a force both on the mound and at the plate, and her all-around play earned her Newcomer of the Year honors, joining sophomore catcher Sam Holland and senior infielder Lily Martin on the 4A All-Inland Empire League softball team, as voted on recently by the league’s coaches.

Pact resolves case against ex-clerk

SANDPOINT — A pretrial settlement has been reached to resolve a felony criminal charge pending against former Bonner County Clerk Ann Dutson-Sater.

Hospital introduces new technology for area's stroke victims

My father had a stroke seven years before he died.

Bonner EMS expansion is questioned

SANDPOINT — Bonner County commissioners continue to move forward with expanding EMS services in Sagle despite concerns that the move is fiscally and operationally questionable.

Molander, Lewis win LPOSD seats

SANDPOINT — In preliminary results, Joel Molander and Geraldine Lewis were headed for seats on the Lake Pend Oreille School Board elections.

Woodward, Merril lead host of Bulldogs to podium at state

SANDPOINT — Led by senior Mikhaela Woodward, who earned her 10th state medals with a second place finish in the 800 and third in the 1,600, the Bulldogs sent a host of athletes to the podium at the state meet last weekend in Boise.

Infrastructure costs are still highway robbery

Infrastructure costs are still highway robbery.

USFS approves Jasper project

SANDPOINT — Idaho Panhandle National Forests Supervisor Mary Farnsworth singed a decision memo Monday approving a forest health and hazardous fuels reduction project north of Priest River.

The time for Scotchman Peaks is now

Scotchman Peak has stood guard over the region since the earliest days of time. It’s only right that we return the favor and stand up for such a unique treasure by calling on Idaho’s congressional delegation to designate the area as wilderness.

Why is Sandpoint being so heartless?

Recently an English newspaper (The Guardian) ran an article titled: “A tale of two killings: what happened when Idaho police shot a dog and a pregnant woman in one day”. (http://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2015/apr/03/idaho-police-shootings-jeanetta-riley-justice-for-arfee)

We need to keep our state laws separate

The governor called a special session to deal with S 1067 which addresses international child support enforcement. Nine members of the House of Representatives raised questions about the details. They had exercised due diligence by carefully reading and studying this proposed legislation (the un-Pelosi approach to legislative responsibility).

FEMA grant enables removal of home in floodway

SANDPOINT — The saga of a home built in a floodway at the confluence of Pack River and Grouse Creek is drawing to a close.

FSPW earns chamber business honors

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce named Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness as its business of the month during last week’s general membership luncheon.

Legislature OKs child support bill

COEUR d’ALENE — It was long day in Boise on Monday, but after hours of testimony and debate the Idaho Legislature finally passed the international child support bill.

Woolnough named to Parkinson's panel

SANDPOINT — Retired Bonner County educator A.C. Woolnough has been named to the People with Parkinson’s Advisory Council, the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation has announced.

Ice cream truck delivers smiles

SANDPOINT — In honor of Lost in the ‘50s weekend, I checked something off my bucket list that I’ve wanted to do since the real 1950s. I hopped aboard the ice cream truck for a ride around a few neighborhoods.

Wolf People licensing action stayed

SANDPOINT — A pending action against Wolf People’s exhibition license has been stayed while the matter is being reviewed by a 2nd District Court judge, court records show.

NIC graduates take triumphant step into the future

340 participate in commencement

COEUR d’ALENE — More than 300 students dressed in maroon caps and gowns walked triumphantly into the Christianson Gym Friday morning at North Idaho College for graduation.

Sprint medley relay team fifth to lead Bulldogs at state track

BOISE — The sprint medley relay team of Kyle Perry, Kaleb Merril, Kenny Kovalchuk and Mark Kennaly finished fifth in 3:34 to lead the Bulldog track team on day one of the 4A state tournament on Friday at Donna Larsen Park in Boise.

Arrests swift in pawn shop burglary

SANDPOINT — Two people have been arrested in connection with a burglary at High-Speed Pawn on Tuesday.

Search, Kyllonen rip way into state tennis semis

BOISE — After a pair of convincing straight set wins, Sandpoint sophomores Laney Search and Khloe Kyllonen advanced to the semis of the main draw in girls doubles, leading the Bulldogs on the first day of the 4A state tennis tournament in Boise.

Idaho Club shoots for public opening in June

SANDPOINT — The pending new owners of The Idaho Club are shooting for opening its 18-hole golf course to the public in June.

Confusion delays fire response

CAREYWOOD — Is your address clearly marked at the end of your rural driveway? If not, emergency services has a cautionary tale for you.

Education is key to safe biking for all

Now that it’s May and National Bike Month, I was looking forward to riding my old Schwin, until an unrelated injury grounded me. So I’m on foot for now. Which is why I was stepping out on the sidewalk on Saturday morning to go to the first Farmers Market of the season. I had parked behind a building on Church Street across from the post office to take advantage of a shady parking spot, so I accessed the sidewalk a ways from the crosswalk alongside the building. I never imagined I should look both ways first!

Presser, Randles named to all-star team

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint sophomore Casey Randles and junior Tyler Presser have been selected to Idaway’s state All Star wrestling team. The two will accompany a team other Idaho all-stars to compete in upcoming duals at El Dorado High School in Placentia, Calif. 

Rose, Cleveland are best candidates

The office of Lake Pend Oreille School Board trustee, although unpaid, is one of the most important positions in the county. I am not a resident of Zone 1 or Zone 4, but the composition of the school board affects all residents of Bonner County. On May 19 residents living in Zone 1 and Zone 4 have the chance to vote for positive change in the Lake Pend Oreille School District.

Measuring the trees to see the forests

SANDPOINT — Over 300 students from across North Idaho infiltrated the shady woods and sunny meadows near Careywood Thursday for the 33rd annual Idaho State Forestry Contest.

Molander, Lewis will lead district wisely

I’m now in my tenth year as a Lake Pend Oreille School Board trustee with the last three as board chair. I had the good fortune joining the board at a time when things were turning around and we were heading in a positive direction. We are now one of the top performing districts in the state. The list of accomplishments in the district is long. It wasn’t always like that.

Common Core is damaging education

Common Core threatens school choice and parental and teacher participation in education. Its implementation is ballooning curriculum adoption costs from $6,600 (2015/16) to $198,000 (2016/2017) (as per Lake Pend Oreille School District budget online). Data collection, weeks of testing and denial of access to test scores by parents and teachers are only a few of the reasons why I will not support any pro-Common Core school board candidates and why I enthusiastically support Kathy Rose and Tom Cleveland.

Woodward hungry for title

SANDPOINT — As a sophomore, she finished second at state in both the 3,200 and 1,600 meters.

Is school board a closed club?

Watching Lake Pend Oreille School District’s actions makes me curious. Why is the school board chairman campaigning for a man who didn’t want to run again? Is this an effort to keep only select people in place? Only the politically correct allowed?

Bonner EMS setting up Sagle station

SAGLE — Bonner County EMS is moving forward with a plan to establish its own station in Sagle.

Pair will ask the tough questions

At a time when the federal government’s tentacles are reaching into local education through mandated testing (SBAC and ISAT), we need people on the school board who question, not rubber stamp issues such as this that are brought to them for approval.

Rose, Cleveland are great choices

I’m pleased to give my wholehearted endorsement of Kathy Rose and Tom Cleveland for the trustee positions on the Lake Pend Oreille School Board, which are up for election on May 19.

Seven Bulldogs looking to make noise at state

SANDPOINT — Led by a pair of district champion doubles teams, the Bulldogs will send three doubles teams and a singles player to the 4A state tennis tournament this weekend in Boise.

Cleveland, Rose offer a fresh perspective

I agree with Tom Clark’s letter (May 12, Daily Bee) about needing new blood on the school board. As the enrollment in the Lake Pend Oreille School Board continues to decline, it seems to be logical to make some course corrections.

Molander working for our students, teachers

Instilling a lifelong love of learning in students at an early age is vitally important to prepare the children of today to become successful adults and leaders of the future. Happy and healthy communities depend of this.

You pick: Fresh ideas versus the status quo

On May 19, there will be two choices for Lake Pend Oreille School Board elections:

Candidates' actions raise concerns

At the Lake Pend Oreille School Board meeting on Tuesday evening, there were several community members who spoke out about a perceived lack of transparency on the part of our school board and administration.

Common Core is hurting our students

As the mother of young children, I’m dismayed at what teaching Common Core in our school district is doing to our children’s education. What I’m seeing is that basic math problems are required to be solved in such a twisted and difficult way that kids are having a really difficult time trying to solve them. So, after a long day at work, my husband or I need to spend at least an hour helping our child, who is an otherwise excellent student, struggle through these ordinary math problems. This is so unnecessary.

Molander, Lewis are a vote for quality education

School board elections traditionally have a low turnout, so every vote counts. Vote on May 19 as if your children or grandchildren’s future depends on it, because it does.

Garden plants seeds for learning

SANDPOINT — A light rain, dirt and kids — all the ingredients necessary for a good time and an ongoing learning opportunity.

Let the game begin on the school board

When asked at last night’s school board meeting in Hope, Lake Pend Oreille School Board Chairman Steve Youngdahl declined to answer the “bait and switch” question asked by Dan Rose.

Cleveland will be change to LPOSD

In Zone 4 of LPOSD, Geraldine Lewis is running for the position held by retiring trustee Mindy Cameron. Ms. Lewis is touted by some on the school board as the perfect candidate to replace Ms. Cameron. This is understandable because  she holds the same pro-levy-at-any-cost  and Common-Core-or-bust attitude. She will continue the status quo on this board.

Bulldog track team seeking medals at state

SANDPOINT — A handful of Bulldogs will be vying for state titles this weekend at the 4A Idaho State Track and Field Championships in Boise, as Sandpoint is sending 20 athletes to state.

Festival concerts shine bright with star-studded lineup

SANDPOINT — Eclectic? Check. Fun? Check Progressive? Check

Dover matriarch passes away

DOVER — A founding mother of the city has passed.

Hospital Week: A focus on continuous improvement

I must say, that I am far more often contacted by people who have had exemplary experiences with our hospital than not. And, I’ve personally had diagnostic imaging, surgeries and trips to the emergency department and have never had anything less than very satisfactory results, so if someone were to say that their visit was unpleasant, I’d frankly be surprised.

Task force announces grants

SANDPOINT — The Bonner County Human Rights Task Force has awarded $18,845 in competitive grants to eight applicants.

Free Community Track and Field Meet on tap

SANDPOINT — For years, the Hershey’s Track and Field meet has been hosting youth meets around the country, including Sandpoint. Hershey’s is no longer hosting the annual track meet.

Kalispel, students share stories, ideas

SANDPOINT — Members of the Kalispel Tribe traveled to Farmin Stidwell Elementary on Tuesday to listen to fourth-grade students talk about what they had learned about regional native peoples as part of five months of study of Idaho history.

Vote is important one for entire community

The vote for the Lake Pend Oreille School Board trustee in Zone 4 on May 19 is important not just for the families with children in our school system, but for the continued growth and well-being of our entire community.

Library board candidates announced

SANDPOINT — While there are four names on the ballot for the East Bonner County Library Board, only two have active campaigns.

Woodward, Kennaly, Graham lead Bulldogs at districts

Bulldogs to take 20 to state track meet

LEWISTON — The sprint medley relay team of Kyle Perry, Kaleb Merril, Kenny Kovalchuk and Mark Kennaly teamed up to clock an eight-second personal best, leading the Bulldog boys team to its third straight 4A Region 1 track and Field Championship on Friday in Lewiston.

Bulldogs holding annual car raffle

SANDPOINT — There are more than 170 kids signed up to play football next season for Sandpoint High School, and many of them will be out and about this weekend selling $5 raffle tickets during Lost in the ’50s.

Trust and responsibility are issues to consider

Lake Pend Oreille is a consolidated school district with the responsibility for all schools and students large or small. We, the voting public, taxpayers, parents, students and staff at Clark Fork and the greater community have put our trust in the Steve Youngdahl-lead school board.

City ponders changes to water policy

SANDPOINT — The City Council found itself mired in some unintended consequences at its regular meeting Wednesday evening.

Let's keep Molander on the school board

Like our lake and our library, the Lake Pend Orielle School District is extraordinary. People we respect, say school board trustee Joel Molander has done much to make it so. Let’s keep him on the job.    

LPOSD in need of fresh blood

The Lake Pend Oreille School District No. 84 is in dire need of fresh blood on the board of directors. Any organization that has unanimity of thought or fears dissenting opinion is ripe for decay. District 84 is reflecting the decay much as our two-party system of politics keeps offering up the same backroom wheelers and dealers like Rep. John Boehner, Sen. Mitch McConnell, Sen. Harry Reid and Rep. Nancy Pelosi.

ITD dedicates $2.2M for city street reconfiguration

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Transportation Board has voted to allocate $2.245 million to fund the redesign and reconstruction of Fifth Avenue between Pine and Cedar streets, reconfiguring the existing one-way road to two-way traffic.

District needs leaders like Lewis, Molander

There are two candidates running for the Lake Pend Oreille School Board who are neither qualified for nor interested in serving the educational needs of this community. Kathy Rose and Tom Cleveland offer the voters a tea party perspective that includes substantial budget cuts.

Report: Early schooling lacking in the region

For Idaho’s kids, access to some important educational opportunities depends greatly on where they live.

Geraldine Lewis is needed on board

Education has been in the news. Through his education initiatives, Gov. Butch Otter recognizes that quality public education is a priority. Idaho’s children deserve every opportunity to acquire skills needed to be the workers and leaders in years to come.

'50s fun Still rockin' 30 years on

Concert, car show boost local economy

SANDPOINT — The annual car show and oldies concert extravaganza we now know as Lost in the ’50s would never have happened, but for a near-miss to catch a legend on stage.

Lewis, Molander are right people for board

We stand firmly in support of Geraldine Lewis and Joel Molander for school district trustees.  Although I do not live in the districts currently voting, I have a stake in the outcome. A viable and well-functioning school board is united toward the goal of student achievement.

Molander cares about our teachers, students

Bonner County schools were good when my children attended many years ago. Now they are even better, giving us one of the top school districts in Idaho.

Cleveland will curb district overspending

Dear gentle readers,

Area well represented by Joel Molander

I am beginning my 12th year as a trustee on the Lake Pend Oreille Board. I have seen many changes and challenges in the education of our children. I respect and appreciate all my fellow board members and no one more than Joel Molander. Joel’s quiet ability to listen, reflect and guide decisions that affect the children within our district has been appreciated by all of us.

Lewis, Molander are best picks for board

A reminder: school board elections are important.

Kerby: Bill should get House OK

BONNERS FERRY — The chairman of the Idaho Health and Welfare Board is confident that the Idaho Legislature will back child support legislation when it reconvenes in special session on May 18.

Jeffres named DBS regional manager

Agency announces compliance initiative

MERIDIAN — The Division of Building Safety recently announced the appointment of a statewide compliance coordinator to ensure compliance with Idaho laws, rules and regulations relating to the licensing of tradesmen and contractors.

Noxious weed research rules are amended

SANDPOINT — Lake Pend Oreille Waterkeeper reached a major milestone at the end of the 2015 legislative session with the passage of Senate Bill 1073, according to a press release.

Bowen leads Cats at districts

LAPWAI — Brandan Bowen finished second in the 300 hurdles (42.06) and third in the 100 hurdles during the prelims to lead Clark Fork at the 1A Region 1 track and field championships on Friday in Lapwai.

Host of Bulldogs advance to district tennis finals

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint’s Broc Storro lost the first set and was trailing 4-1 in the second set, before rallying to take down Lakeland’s Colin Burkhalter 1-6, 6-4, 7-6 (8-6) in the semis of the boys singles on the first day of the 4A Region 1 tennis championships Friday at Travers Park, Lakeview Courts and City Beach.

PAS distemper outbreak stirring concerns

SANDPOINT — Panhandle Animal Shelter officials say they are close to pinpointing the source of a canine distemper outbreak last month.

Graham, Collado lead Bulldogs at regional meet

COEUR d’ALENE — Jacob Graham and Sam Powell went one-two in the 3,200, and Carlos Collado and Sam Palmer did the same in the shot put, as a host of Bulldogs punched their tickets to state on day one of the 4A Region 1 Track and Field meet Thursday at Coeur d’Alene High School.

Threat puts Farmin Stidwell in lockdown

SANDPOINT — A telephoned threat warning of gun violence against students put Farmin Stidwell Elementary School in lockdown mode on Thursday afternoon.

Bulldogs bounce Bears to extend season

SANDPOINT — Freshman Bri Baldree pitched a complete game six-hitter, and also banged out three hits and scored the winning run, leading the No. 2 seed Bulldogs to an 8-7 win over No. 3 Moscow in the loser-out game of the 4A Region 1 softball tournament on Thursday at Sandpoint Middle School.

County's final dairy farm closes down

SANDPOINT — There are plenty of rural properties to be found in Bonner County, stylized homes with barn-like outbuildings, manicured lawns and paved driveways on acreage that attempt to achieve the look of an idealized farm.

Lewis dedicated to LPOSD's students

Geraldine Lewis is the right candidate for Lake Pend Oreille School Board, Zone 4, in the upcoming LPOSD school board election on May 19. She has been an active volunteer for the schools, in the classroom, and with five years on the staff of Panhandle Alliance for Education — which provides financial support to the school district for far-sighted educational programs, and with CARE— a recognition program for students at Sandpoint High School.

Rocky needs your Facebook votes

SANDPOINT — Fourth graders at Farmin Stidwell Elementary School are calling on teens and adults with Facebook accounts to put a vote in for Rocky as the Idaho Department of Parks & Recreation’s new mascot.

Memorial Field measure placed on November ballot

SANDPOINT — The City Council had a busy — if somewhat confused — meeting Wednesday evening.

Molander best pick for school board trustee

The Lake Pend Oreille School District has enjoyed great progress in the last decade. A part of that success has been a cohesive school board whose members support talented district administrators while providing prudent guidance of how taxpayer dollars are spent.

'The fun they have is universal'

Bulldog JV team features players from five foreign countries

SANDPOINT — When the Sandpoint JV softball team took the field against Coeur d’Alene for the season opener, five of its players, from countries scattered around the globe, had absolutely no clue what was about to happen.

The facts tell us that Lewis is best choice

The candidates seeking election to the Zone 4  seat on the Lake Pend Oreille School Board are a snapshot of the diversity in the local community.

Bulldogs' season comes to end with loss to Hawks

RATHDRUM — A 10-run third inning proved too much to overcome for Sandpoint, which saw its season come to an end with an 11-0 loss to Lakeland on Wednesday in the loser-out game of the 4A Region 1 baseball tournament at Gorton Field.

Molander does not represent Clark Fork

Tuesday’s LPOSD school board meeting turned into a virtual love fest for Joel Molander, trustee for Zone 1, by school board members and Superintendent Shawn Woodward. All but one member, trustee Joan Fish, made supportive comments about him, specifically dealing with Clark Fork, a town in his zone, where he also lives.

Make the election about the children

The tone of this school board election after a successful levy campaign is appalling. There are no parties involved here, just kids who need the best advocates Zones 1 and 4 can offer. When school meal programs are cut from Zone 1 … when we only hear of teacher cuts being made and no word of deep cuts at the district level, something is wrong. If proponents of Molander and Lewis have to resort to putting non-Zone 1 or non-Zone 4 persons up to slandering intelligent, involved, and well-meaning candidates for zones 1 and 4, this school district administration is afraid of change. Most of us can read between the lines; the children deserve better.

Cd'A officer shot, killed in line of duty

COEUR d’ALENE — Greg Moore was known as a gentle family man who loved being around people, especially kids.

Teen pregnancy in the U.S. down but not out

The good news is that teen pregnancies have continued to drop by roughly 10 percent a year since 2012. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that although the reasons aren’t clear, teens seem to be less sexually active and are better educated about birth control.

Qualls picked for city post

SANDPOINT — The city quietly announced the nomination of Aaron Qualls by an interview panel to fill the post of city planning and economic development director after an amendment to the council meeting agenda was published late Tuesday afternoon.

Ward, Tomazich go deep as Bulldogs bounce Bears

RATHDRUM — A power infusion from a couple of JV players, along with another strong start from ace Bri Baldree helped lead the No. 2 Bulldogs to a 10-5 win over No. 3 seed Moscow (5-17) in the opener of the 4A Region 1 softball tournament on Tuesday at Lakeland High School.

Wampus Cats compete in Spokane, Lewiston

CLARK FORK — James Cope and Niko Icardo won a second set tie-breaker 9-7 before losing a third set tie-breaker 12-10 in a marathon loss to Toppenish, and also lost 10-8 in a super tie-breaker to Medical Lake at No. 2 doubles to lead Clark Fork at the Inland Empire tourney.

Storro, Story notch big wins at No. 1 singles

SANDPOINT — Broc Storro played some of his best tennis of the season, scoring a straight set win at No. 1 boys singles, and Cassidy Story once again took apart her opponent in a 6-3,  6-2 win at No. 1 girls singles, leading the Bulldogs to a 9-3 win over the 5A Vikings in a nonleague tennis dual Tuesday at Travers Park and Lakeview Courts.

Corps offers 'state of the water' address for rivers, lakes

PRIEST RIVER — Meager mountain snows, a dry spring and above-average temperatures forecast for this summer are an uncommon recipe for river and lake enthusiasts to enjoy some great early recreation on the water this season.

'Small schools' deserve district's support

It is difficult to stand by and watch the tremendous work and dedication put forth by students, staff and school administration appear to be easily dismissed with a comment, “I’ve been given my marching orders.” And another comment “But it’s the small rural schools’ turn,” Woodward said. “Clark Fork has been spared from staffing adjustments that other schools in the district have experienced.” I could spend time and very little effort responding to “it’s the small schools turn.”

Lewis is a champion of our children, schools

Geraldine Lewis is unquestionably the right person for the Zone 4 Lake Pend Oreille School Board trustee position. I have had the pleasure of knowing and serving with Geraldine for many years and in many capacities.

Molander, Lewis are best picks for board

The upcoming school board election (May 19) gives us some clear choices. Two candidates represent tea party positions, including opposition to the levy, and the other two are more interested in educating our kids.

Hill says Otter showed him vetoed bill

COEUR d’ALENE — Idaho’s Senate Pro Tem Brent Hill said he saw the controversial SB 1011 veto on April 3, but did not take possession of the bill.

Bulldog boys fall short of state at district tourney

POST FALLS — Freshman Jack Reeves broke 80 for the third time this season, firing a 76 to lead Sandpoint, which fell short to Lakeland on Monday during the 4A Region 1 golf tournament at the Links.

Take nothing for granted and vote

So now the tea party is trying to infiltrate the Lake Pend Oreille School Board? To what end? To torpedo the next levy? This could be disastrous.

Pair finish first in derby

SANDPOINT — Derek Blanchard and Edwin Dickson have been crowned the unofficial first-place winners of the Lake Pend Oreille Idaho Club’s annual spring derby.

City: Local sales tax is grandstands' final option

SANDPOINT — It’s a community icon that has hosted generations of spectators who watched players go forth on the field of battle.

Bulldogs hold own in Spokane

SANDPOINT — Five Sandpoint tennis players advanced to the quarterfinals of the main draw last weekend at the Inland Empire Tennis Tournament in Spokane, which draws high schools from Washington, Oregon and Idaho.

Lewis is best pick for school board seat

After 11 years serving as a board member of the Lake Pend Oreille School District, I decided some time ago that this would be my final term. As an up-close witness of the many advances for our schools in the past decade, I have a deep and personal interest in who takes over the Zone 4 board slot.

Fraud suspect to challenge his arrest

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man fighting extradition to California to face fraud charges is challenging the legality of his arrest, court records show.

Martha Washington deserves to grace $20 bill

What goes around comes around and this time it is coming around for Andrew Jackson. Little 9-year-old Sofia from Massachusetts wants to see a woman represented on our currency and it looks like Andrew Jackson has lost his tenure on the $20 bill.

Proposed cuts would devastate Clark Fork

The cuts proposed by Lake Pend Oreille School District Superintendent Shawn Woodward will not only devastate Clark Fork Junior/Senior High School, they will also destroy our town.

Trio in line for preservation awards

Train depot, Nesbitt House, Heartwood Center recognized

SANDPOINT — For the first time in its 38-year history, the group Preservation Idaho will hold its annual awards Orchids & Onions ceremony in North Idaho. In Sandpoint, to be exact, making this the only occasion to date when the event has traveled farther north than the Lewiston-Moscow region.

Cleveland seeks LPOSD board seat

SANDPOINT — Tom Cleveland has announced he is seeking election to the Zone 4 seat on the Lake Pend Oreille School District’s board of trustees.

Students get a jump start on college

SANDPOINT — What do you do if you’re a high school student who finds classes unchallenging and boring? Go to college.

Fitzpatrick, Crowley fire 80s to pace Bulldogs golfers

SANDPOINT — Damien Fitzpatrick and Nick Crowley fired rounds of 80, leading the Bulldog boys to a fourth place finish on Friday at the Sandpoint Invitational, held at the Elks Golf Course.

Harris signs to play football next season at College of Idaho

SANDPOINT — There’s a reason why Sandpoint senior Tyler Harris was recruited as an “athlete” by the College of Idaho.

Court affirms forest planning rule

SANDPOINT — A U.S. District judge is outlining her rationale for rejecting a challenge of a federal rule that requires the U.S. Forest Service to rely on science and conservation biology when developing forest plans.

Quake swarm is one for the history books

BONNERS FERRY — When the dishes and windows rattled and the house shook for 10 to 15 seconds my first thought was a major train derailment. But then I realized it might have been an earthquake.

Seat-slashing case dismissed

SANDPOINT — A lawsuit accusing a former Schweitzer Mountain Resort resident of maliciously damaging scores of chairlift seat covers has been dismissed.

Sandpoint native second in 100K race

SANDPOINT — What would possess a person to run 100 kilometers, or 62 miles and change for those keeping score at home?

Transportation issues challenged Legislature

SANDPOINT — Transportation funding was the legislative hang-up this year.

Bulldog distance runners earn wins at All Star Meet

POST FALLS — With winds approaching 15 to 20 miles an hour at the start of the District 1 All-Star Meet at Post Falls High, it was important to have a strategy for how to turn that into an advantage on Thursday afternoon. The meet features the top athletes from all of the high schools in North Idaho, regardless of classification.

Bond reduced in stabbing

SANDPOINT — Bond was reduced Wednesday for a young Sandpoint man charged with stabbing another man on New Year’s Eve.