Friday, February 29
Martin, McMahon and Wilkinson carry Cats to win
CALDWELL - As bounce-back games go, Drew Wilkinson's was hard to beat Friday at the 1A state basketball tournament, as the streak-shooting senior guard exploded for a career-high 30 points to lead Clark Fork to a 67-53 win over Clark County in consolation action at Vallivue High School.
Community mourns after East Hope mayor passes away
Bud Moon was son of early-day area pioneers
Heavy winter could affect summer road work plans
PONDERAY - This season's heavy winter is expected to take a bite out of summer road maintenance plans, state and local transportation officials said on Friday.
Nora Mona Mitchell, 91
Nora Mona Mitchell entered into rest on Feb. 27, 2008, at her home on the Dufort Road, Sagle, Idaho. She was 91.
Senate rejects revised iSTARS bill
BOISE - The Senate turned down a revised version of the iSTARS teacher pay increase and bonus plan here Friday.
Thursday, February 28
PSB inks lease for new parking site
SANDPOINT - Panhandle State Bank has completed a lease on property at the corner of Fourth Avenue and Oak Street on Thursday.
Clark Fork falls to Lapwai
CALDWELL - Defense was not the problem for Clark Fork Thursday at the 1A state basketball tournament at Caldwell High School, as the Cats held Lapwai's two top scorers to a mere six points while keeping a high octane offense in check.
House panel OKs field burning bill
BOISE - A measure to make law of a statewide field burning agreement was easily approved Thursday by the House Energy, Environment, and Technology Committee.
Douglas Kent Wesselman, 44
Douglas Kent Wesselman, 44, passed on Monday, Feb. 18, 2008, at Deaconess Medical Center in Spokane, Wash. Dougie went peacefully, with his family at his side, following complications after surgery.
Edwin Alfred 'Ed' Hansen
Edwin Alfred “Ed” Hansen, 57, of Priest River, Idaho, passed away at Kootenai Medical Center in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, on Feb. 25, 2008, after an extended illness.
Marina plan is being changed
SANDPOINT - Idaho Department of Lands officials expect to hold a public hearing on a private marina on Lake Pend Oreille at Trestle Creek sometime this spring.
David Borge Wilburn, 53
David Borge Wilburn, 53, passed away in Las Vegas, Nev., on Valentine's Day, Thursday, Feb. 14, 2008.
Matt Ponack
Matt Ponack was born to Nikolas and Darlene Ponack on Nov. 10, 1961.
Wednesday, February 27
PAFE looks to boost literacy to get students 'Ready' for school
SANDPOINT - Family literacy may just be the most important crayon in the pencil box for a child's success in school.
Matt Ponack
Matt Ponack was born to Nikolas and Darlene Ponack on Nov. 10, 1961. He passed away on Feb. 23, 2008, at his home in Hope.
Wampus Cats win state tourney opener
CALDWELL - Plan A was not working so well for Clark Fork, but fortunately for the Wampus Cats, Plan B wasn't a bad alternative.
Neighbor's complaint was a real snow job
This letter is in reference to Ms. January Roberts' rant about snow being dumped one lot away from the apartment she rents. Instead of being criticized, her neighbor should be praised and applauded for allowing her vacant lots to be used for dumping snow during this difficult snow season.
Johnny L. McLeroy, 57
Johnny L. McLeroy, 57, went to be with the Lord on Feb. 21, 2008.
Mary Ann Branson, 83
Mary Ann Branson, 83, died Feb. 26, 2008, at Kootenai Medical Center in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.
Some things are innate, not a choice
I am responding to Kathy Hood's letter published on, of all days, St. Valentine's Day.
Positive changes have ski resort bustling
There is something going on at Schweitzer.
Theory is one of most corroborated of all time
In a promotional article (“Science and Faith,” Feb. 15), Randy Hohf incorrectly asserts, “It (the theory of evolution) is based on neither observation nor repeatable experimentation, but is a matter of faith - a faith that is held so religiously that no one is even allowed to question it.”
Helen Lucille Irish Battien, 83
Our dearest mother and grandmother Helen Lucille (Irish) Battien passed away peacefully on Saturday, Feb. 23, 2008, in Spokane, Wash.
Signatures pending on bypass agreement
State paying $6.4 million for railroad right of way
SMS: Staff cuts miss the mark
Propose alternate plan to LPOSD officials, board
Tuesday, February 26
John Haile, 84
John Wesley Haile Jr., 84, passed away Saturday, Feb. 23, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.
Helen Lucille Irish Battien, 83
Our dearest mother and grandmother Helen Lucille (Irish) Battien passed away peacefully on Saturday, Feb. 23, 2008, in Spokane, Wash.
Judge won't fuse cases in PL murder
Consolidation question might be revisited later
Multi-step effort required to eliminate smoke, soot odors
Restaurant and kitchen fires are very demanding, primarily because of the complexity of the smoke and soot.
James B. 'Doc' Doolittle, 80
James B. “Doc” Doolittle, 80, passed away on Monday, Feb. 25, 2008, in Sandpoint, Idaho.
Vote brings water issues to forefront
SANDPOINT - Expanding Sandpoint's water system boundaries has been, and will most likely continue to be, one of the most divisive topics the city will face in coming years.
Month calls attention to dangers of heart disease
We've spent most of this month talking about the effects of methamphetamine use, including the damage it can cause to the heart, so as February draws to a close, it's fitting to note that February is American Heart Month. Heart disease is the number one killer of all Americans, taking the lives of 700,000 of our friends, relatives and co-workers each year.
Man imprisoned for shooting incident
Peterson fired as many as 60 shots at neighbor's home
Monday, February 25
Clarence Jean 'Sonny' Florea, 68
Clarence Jean “Sonny” Florea, 68, passed away at his home on Upper Pack River Road, Thursday, Feb. 21, 2008. No services are scheduled at this time.
Education, services are needed to prevent unwanted pregnancies
The recent letter on the abortion issue provides the opportunity for another point of view, a woman’s. I agree with Steve, children are precious, although our society seems to do little about the daily exploitation, neglect and abuse of already living children. His letter implies that he has spent a great deal of time actually witnessing what takes place in a women’s clinic, or simply has been exposed to biased sources.
Local players in ISHS All-Star game
Sandpoint shooting guard Ryan Armbruster and Clark Fork point guard Mike Martin will represent the area as participants for the boys and girls 2008 Idaho State High School All-Star Basketball Games were announced Monday by the North Idaho College Athletics Department. Bonners Ferry’s Ryan Winebark and Priest River’s Lacy Hopkins are the only other regional players named to the team. Badger A.J. Bennett is an alternate.
Montana man hooked up on local warrant
SANDPOINT — A man living near Montana’s Glacier National Park was recently arrested by a Flathead County Sheriff’s SWAT team on a warrant from Bonner County.
Sidewalks, water topped council's discussion
Currently two important city issues are sidewalks and water. Sidewalks are being promoted in older parts of town by relative newcomers who are not necessarily sensitive to the financial limitations of some of our residents.
Sandpoint locals to fly in Outrageous Air Show
SANDPOINT — Sandpoint’s own Tyler Wahlin, Brennen Chasse, Dustin Hendricks and Matt Gillis will be performing in the Yokes Outrageous Air Show this Friday and Saturday. This elite group of jumpers will be performing two free aerial acrobatic shows each night under the lights in the Schweitzer Mountain Village.
Boge announces plans for Sandpoint Zip's Drive-In
SANDPOINT — When Zip’s Drive-In opens on Memorial Day, Councilman Michael Boge will achieve his longtime goal of becoming a Sandpoint business owner.
Medina defends welterweight title
WORLEY — Facing an experienced and cagey opponent, Sandpoint boxer Favio Medina knew well the importance of dominating the middle of the ring and taking the fight to his opponent, scoring a unanimous 12-round decision over Spokane’s Santos Pakau Thursday night at the Coeur d’Alene Casino.
Prevent your dogs from chasing wildlife
Today as I looked out the window at the deep snow, I was sickened at the sight of eight deer running in panic. some went onto the highway, some into the woods.
Is 'No Child' causing train wreck in LPOSD
Could it be No Child Let Behind is causing a train wreck in the Lake Pend Oreille school system?
Practices at Dover City Hall scrutinized
City officials, AG’s office tight-lipped about investigation
James Fleming Scott, 86
James Fleming Scott, 86, spontaneous in song, outdoor enthusiast, competitive sportsman, pastor, loving father and husband, passed peacefully to his Father’s arms on Thursday, Feb. 21, 2008, in Sandpoint, Idaho.
Mt. West soars in 3rd quarter
COEUR d’ALENE — Mountain West Bank announced record earnings and balance sheet growth information for the 12-month period ending Dec. 31, 2007.
Sentence imposed in contested molestation case
SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man was sentenced Thursday to five years of probation after pleading guilty to a felony assault charge stemming from molestation allegations made against him.
Saturday, February 23
marina development
Trestle Creek at
what does exclusive mean?
People to think about
Friday, February 22
Pepperdine advances to state finals
NAMPA — Sandpoint senior Timmy Pepperdine took longer to warm up than he did in advancing to the finals of the 4A 112-pound championship Friday night at the Idaho Center in Nampa.
Field burning deal reached
COEUR d'ALENE — An agreement has been reached to allow field burning in Idaho, but the deal still must be approved at several other levels before it can take effect.
Thursday, February 21
Five Bulldogs register first round pins at state
NAMPA — Five Bulldogs won their first-round matches as the 4A state wrestling championships got unde rway Thursday at the Idaho Center in Nampa — four that were half-expected and one that was a pleasant surprise.
Margaret E. Brinker
Margaret E. Brinker of Hope, Idaho, passed away on Feb. 20, 2008.
Clark Fork defeats Kootenai
KELLOGG — Jared Broggi scored a game-high 14 points, one of three Cats in double digits as No. 1 Clark Fork advanced to the 1A District 1 championship game with a 49-26 whooping of No. 4 Kootenai Thursday night at Andrews Gymnasium in Kellogg.
Oakley lands spot on All-IEL second team
Sandpoint junior shooting guard Brittany Oakley was named to the All-Inland Empire League second team, as voted on by the leagues coaches. Oakley emerged as the Bulldogs' top scoring threat this season, and her high-pressure perimeter defense created much havoc. Oakley, who averaged 11 points, five assists and three steals per game, was the lone Bulldog honored in arguably the best league in the state.
Wednesday, February 20
Levy needed to address LPOSD facility concerns
On Tuesday night the LPOSD Board of Trustees passed a resolution to ask voters to support a two-year supplemental levy totalling $14.1 million.
Wrestlers claims wins at tournament
Sandpoint wrestlers BreAnna Williams and Lily DeAragon both took home first place medals at the USGWA Montana State Tournament in Lockwood, Mont., last Saturday, earning them another state title.
Roberta Ann Bostock
Roberta Ann Bostock passed away Sunday, Feb. 17, 2008, at Bonner General Hospital in Sandpoint, Idaho, after a short battle with a rare and aggressive form of colon cancer.
Tuesday, February 19
Season ends as Bulldogs fall to Lakeland
RATHDRUM — Tanner French scored 12 and Spencer Swerin 10, but it wasn't enough to keep Sandpoint's season alive, as they fell 59-43 to Lakeland in the loser-out game of the 4A District 1 tournament Tuesday night at Lakeland High School.
Quick response is critical to cleaning up soot
As most of you know, in October of last year, my company started the fire and smoke remediation and restoration of Arlo's restaurant on First Avenue in Sandpoint. I'm happy to report that project will be finished soon with an expected opening date of March 17 — I'm sure Tom and Lisa would love to have you stop by and see their new restaurant during their grand opening.
Methamphetamine devastates body, communities
In last week's article, I shared some disturbing statistics about the devastating financial and social consequences that methamphetamine use has caused in Idaho as our state's number one1 drug problem. Here's one more fact: Idaho currently ranks fifth in the nation for Meth abuse.
Monday, February 18
Frances Wyonnia Pitts, 71
Frances Wyonnia Pitts, 71, was born on June 29, 1936. She married to Robert James Pitts on June 20, 1953. They were married for 54 years.
Harassing wildlife isn't an amoosing thing to do
Who is smarter, the moose that have invaded Sandpoint or the town's residents who pay taxes, have jobs and have evolved from single-celled sea creatures?
Group appreciates letter writer's support
I believe that Matt Kerr understands the heart of the Community Assistance League. Five days per week, 52 weeks per year, approximately 12,000 hours per year, the volunteers of CAL work at Bizarre Bazaar to earn funds to give to the community.
Intersection are way overdue for signage
Stop signs are way past due at the following intersections in Sandpoint: Division at Pine, Division at Spruce and Boyer at Larch. Five years ago, these stop signs were not needed but with the many additions to our populations, these intersections are not only bottlenecks but they are downright dangerous. Kids walking home from the schools, the impatient drivers, some on cell phones and not paying attention, and heavy traffic in these areas area accidents waiting to happen.
'Social engineering' depends on who is getting help
One of the reasons given for the demise of the grocery tax credit increase is that many legislators considered it "social engineering." The bill provides more tax relief for the poor than it does for the rest of us. Some legislators simply want to do away with the sales tax on groceries and that would be great if we could afford it. So they voted against it. Others represent voters who are simply opposed to giving those less fortunate than themselves a "hand out."
Saturday, February 16
Clemons trying to fix property taxi methods
All of us living in Bonner County are aware of the Assessor's Office and the history of determining our property taxes by crystal ball. Typical justifications for increases while dealing with the prior Assessor ranged from "you keep your property up" to someone determining a value based upon their believe your "property might sell for a certain amount in the future." People were so upset with this system that they voted the incumbent out of office. It's likely she wasn't the cause of the problem but simply followed a flawed system.
Tax relief, sales tax keep Legislature busy
Property tax relief, removal of sales tax from food, more equitable pay for teachers and state employees. These are just a few of the difficult issues facing us in the legislative session — compounded by January's $34 million decline in revenues.
Angel's offer for taxi ride sent the right message
We were celebrating Mardi Gras with the Angels Over Sandpoint at the Panida last Friday. We had a really good time and people were drinking and partying.
Robert E. 'Lefty' Chaffins, 87
Robert E. "Lefty" Chaffins, 87, passed away in Spokane, Wash., on Feb. 7, 2008.
Writer's assumptions are simply ridiculous
I read with sorrow the letter entitled "Don't be intimidated into supporting gay rights" by Kathy Hood of Sandpoint. (Bee, Feb. 14)
Friday, February 15
Sandra Mae Wethington, 69
Sandra Mae Wethington, 69, passed away on Monday, Feb. 11, 2008, in Clark Fork, Idaho.
Idaho Meth Project seeks end to drug's use
Ronk: 95 percent of first-timers users use again — and again
Thursday, February 14
Bulldogs defeat Lakeland, 55-51
RATHDRUM — Spencer Swerin had 19 points, eight rebounds and five assists to help lead Sandpoint to a 55-51 win over Lakeland Thursday night in the 4A district playoff opener at Lakeland High School.
Prompt action needed when glass breaks in your home
This week, my company has received several calls from area home owners regarding glass cleanup. For most of them, their second-floor deck fell apart because of the heavy snow load; the impact pressure from the snow and debris hitting the ground blew out their downstairs windows. Shards of glass and debris filled the downstairs living envelope, causing a very hazardous environment.
Sandpoint Volleyball Club notches impressive finish in U18 tournament
SPOKANE — The Sandpoint Volleyball Club U16 team had its second strong showing of the year, finishing second overall out of 24 teams in the Sideout February Classic in Spokane.
Wednesday, February 13
When did we stop thinking about others?
Snow, snow, snow and, oh my gosh, more snow. It's bad enough that it's coming down from the heavens and naturally filling up the yards and streets, but now my neighbor has allowed a "commercial" snow remover to haul mountains of snow from another county no less, onto an empty lot at the southeast corner of Dearborn and S. Third Avenue in Sandpoint because this snow plowman does not want to pay to have someone haul away the snow he is getting paid to remove and it saves the owner a few bucks because he plows her drive for free.
What will city residents be asked to do next?
The public has been asked to "adopt a fire hydrant" by shoveling out the snow around it to keep it open for safety reasons because those responsible for this job won't or can't get to it. What's next? With the snow melting, will the next call be to adopt a storm drain to keep it open, fill a pot hole or two, perhaps repair a sewer line or water main leak? Maybe it will be to tow your neighbor's car when they fail to understand the concept of even/odd parking when it snows so the plows can do a better job on the city streets. Those in charge of these duties need to look at what didn't work and make the changes necessary to fix what turned into an enormous mess.
We owe it to lake to try healthier alternatives
I can't believe the Bonner County Milfoil Task Force approved the use of the chemical herbicide 2,4-D after their public meeting last March where the audience nearly unanimously spoke out in opposition and staged many rallies opposing the use of chemicals in the lake. 2007 saw a positive direction: no 2,4-D was used, swim areas were protected, bottom barriers and diver dredging were given a limited try.
Delbert Edward Piatt, 100
Delbert Edward Piatt, 100, passed away in Sandpoint, Idaho on Sunday, Feb. 10, 2008.
Rolland C. Ames, 89
Rolland C. Ames, 89, passed away in Sandpoint, Idaho, on Monday, Feb. 11, 2008.
Tuesday, February 12
Methamphetamine leads list as top drug problem
Meth is the top drug of choice and the number one drug problem in Idaho. Law enforcement officials, drug counselors and state legislators agree-there has never been a drug as powerful, addictive and quick to destroy lives and communities as methamphetamine. The financial and social consequences of meth abuse are devastating. Consider these statistics:
Kindness predominates in community as neighbors help each other out
Classified ad in the Bee: "Farm skidding wench. $1,000. Priest River area." One reader dropped me a note asking what the "wench" did to earn $1,000. "She must be really something to go for $1,000," the astute writer wrote.
Bulldogs fall to Vikings in final dual of season
COEUR d'ALENE — Braden Mowry hit the on switch at just the right time.
Monday, February 11
Embrace 'Rachel's Challenge' - end bullying
When is the last time a school assembly saved a life … or perhaps changed the fate of a town?
Keep commercial zones out of neighborhoods
I've read about the efforts of Save Our Sandpoint, as well as letters by Erik Daarstad, Ed Braun and others, regarding the draft land use map being considered for Sandpoint. Obviously, they are all concerned about Sandpoint's future. Erik mentions the Coons and Whittaker homes, which were demolished to make way for a huge condo complex. Those houses were the last vestiges of old Sandpoint, the original town by the lake. Some had hoped to make them part of a museum group. But the houses are gone, and much of Sandpoint is being proposed for mixed commercial/residential usage.
Events organized by Friends of the Library
Dave Gunter's article about Paul Rawling's book collector (Jan. 13) contained some erroneous information. I want to correct that the book sale described in the story is run by the "Friends of the Library," not the East Bonner County Library. We are a volunteer group who works hard, have fun and enjoy making books available to the public. Our sales are the First Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m..
Where are we headed and where do we go from here?
Bonner County applied close to 600,000 pounds of herbicides to our waterways over the past two years in attempt to eradicate Eurasian watermilfoil. Given every expert in the field of aquatic weeds that Bonner Counties Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force has heard from assures us that "eradication" is not just unrealistic, but virtually impossible. From this it seems clear that our battle with this noxious weed will not end any time soon.
Saturday, February 9
House bill was a reasonable compromise
This is old news now but as one of the sponsors of House Bill 439, the sales tax credit on food purchases, I was disappointed that the bill did not make it out of committee. Even though other legislative proposals are being worked on, the reality is that any legislation that goes beyond House Bill 439 in reducing revenues in the upcoming fiscal year will have difficulty in getting approved.
Customer service lacking at Post Office
I understand I have to clear a path in front of my mailbox. I understand mail carriers are having a particularly difficult time this year.
Prayers, thoughts greatly appreciated
Thank you all so very much for all the wonderful cards and your prayers. They have meant a lot to us. We will truly miss our wonderful, sweet granddaughter, Taija, and we are so thankful that we had her, even though it was much too short.
Tips for avoiding 'cash crisis' are valuable
Having lived in this area for a few months, I want to thank the Bee for helping me connect to the Sandpoint area, past and present. I always look forward to your kudos strip on the front page.
Suspects in drug bust face stiff penalties
SANDPOINT — Arraignments are pending for two Bonner County men accused of selling drugs from their apartment.
Friday, February 8
Sandpoint Depot is a picture of dignity, beauty
The old depot in Sandpoint has been sitting by the tracks doing the same job for 92 years. One can see some changes have transpired over the years but she still presents a picture of dignity and beauty. She came into being in 1916 and was hailed as an important addition to the growing village of Sandpoint. Unlike her predecessor, who had been surrounded by homes and businesses, she stood pretty much alone because the people had moved to the present town site across Sand Creek.
Chamber welcomes Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry to area
Dr. Dance and his staff are bringing joy to the greater Sandpoint area one little smile at a time.
Hollands to compete in snowboarding Grand Prix
TAMARACK — Tamarack Resort will play host to the country's greatest snowboard competition series, the 2007-08 Chevy U.S. Snowboarding Grand Prix, this weekend. U.S. Olympic medalists, X Games champions and world-class snowboarders go head-to-head at Tamarack on a 22-foot Olympic-sized SuperPipe and on a specially-constructed snowboard cross course.
Floodings among most common hazards
Floods are one of the most common hazards in the U.S. All floods, however, are not alike. Some develop over a period of days, and others develop quickly, in just a few minutes. Flash floods are very dangerous because they consist of a wall of roaring water that contains rocks, mud and other debris that can sweep away everything in its path.
Patricia Louise 'Pat' Lewis, 77
Patricia Louise "Pat" Lewis, 77, passed away in Sandpoint, Idaho, on Friday, Feb. 8, 2008.
Bulldog wrestlers hammer Lakeland
SANDPOINT — Good things are indeed worth waiting for.
Thursday, February 7
Donald G. 'Don' Hiatt, 81
Donald G. "Don" Hiatt, 81, passed away in Post Falls, Idaho, on Monday, Feb. 4, 2008, and was reunited with his heavenly family.
Ben Stein's money goes toward home in Seasons at Sandpoint
It was Ben Stein's money and he spent some of it around Christmas to purchase an upper unit condo at the Seasons at Sandpoint.
Wednesday, February 6
Yep, we've gotten plenty of the white stuff, but it's s(no)w record
Let's talk about the snow.
Democracy is thriving here
Democracy is alive in Bonner County.
NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE
On May 29, 2008, at the hour of 11:00 o'clock AM of said day, at First American Title Company, 419 North Second Avenue, Sandpoint, Idaho, JUST LAW INC., as Successor Trustee, will sell at public auction to the highest bidder, for cash, in lawful money of the United States, all payable at the time of sale, the following described real property, situated in the County of Bonner, State of Idaho, and described as follows to wit:
STATE TIMBER SALE
CR-20-0271
Clark Fork girls drop district opener to Kootenai
SPIRIT LAKE — Kami Haynes came off the bench and scored all six of her points in the opening minutes of the third quarter to lead Kootenai past Clark Fork in the opening round of the 1A District 1 Tournament Wednesday night at Timberlake High School.
Fees fund Fish & Game programs in area, state
A few weeks ago there was an article in our newspaper about a 13-year-old girl from Kalispell, Mont., who shot a very large elk. A very proud moment, even for a teenager.
Genocide in Darfur is going unnoticed
For more than three years now, a U.S. labeled genocide has been occurring in Sudan, more specifically in the Darfur region. To date, more than 400,000 innocent civilians have been murdered and more than 2.5 million displaced from their homes.
Martin dunk, Wilkinson three-pointers pace Cats
COEUR d'ALENE — Drew Wilkinson scored 11 of his game-high 24 in the third quarter and Mike Martin added 20, including a dunk, as the North Star League-leading Clark Fork ran past Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy Tuesday night in Coeur d'Alene.
ORDER SETTING DATE FOR HEARING AND FOR NOTICE
Case No. CV-2008-00132
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
The Board of Bonner County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on Wednesday,
NOTICE OF APPLICATION
Pursuant to Section 58-104(g) and 58-1301, et seq., Idaho Code (The Lake Protection Act) and rules of the State Board of Land Commissioners, notice is hereby given that JLZ Enterprises, Inc. dba Pend Oreille River Marina and Resort of P. O. Box 1335 - Sagle, ID 83860 made application to install a 123 slip commercial marina. Located on the Pend Oreille River, Idaho adjacent to: Section 25, Township 56 North, Range 5 West; B.M., in Bonner County.
Tuesday, February 5
SHS boys fall to Lakeland
SANDPOINT — For three quarters, it looked like it might be a nice Senior Night for Sandpoint seniors Ryan Armbruster, Kyle Gibson, David Duarte, Brian Keough and Alex Crossingham.
Edgar E. 'Ed' Bratton
Edgar E. "Ed" Bratton passed away on Jan. 27, 2008, at the age of 83. He was born on June 23, 1924, in Gunnison, Colo., to Mary and Clarence Bratton.
Gerald 'Gary' L. Yarger, 61
Gerald "Gary" L. Yarger (61) died peacefully from complications due to pancreatic cancer Feb. 2, 2008, at his Trestle Creek home near Hope, Idaho.
James A. 'Jim' Sawhill, 70
James A. "Jim" Sawhill, 70, passed away in Sandpoint, Idaho.
Bulldog girls fall to Lakeland in regional action
RATHDRUM — Forced to play catchup from the early going, the Sandpoint Bulldogs were unable to do so, and lost 49-36 to the Lakeland Hawks in the semifinals of the 4A Region 1 girls basketball tournament Tuesday night at Hawk Court.
Let it snow outside, but be sure to shovel with care
When I moved to Sandpoint three years ago from the considerably warmer climate of Dallas, Texas, I couldn't wait for the first winter snowfall. As I've watched our rooftop, driveway and sidewalk pile up with the seemingly endless white stuff during the past couple of weeks, though, I've been keenly reminded that while snow is beautiful, it must also be removed. And often, that means shoveling.
Mildred Ruth Rickabaugh, 90
Mildred Ruth Rickabaugh, 90, passed away in Sandpoint, Idaho, on Saturday Feb. 2, 2008.
Monday, February 4
We must protect the rights of the innocent
Jan. 22 marked the 35 years since the legalization of abortion (Roe vs. Wade). Upwards of 40 million abortions have been performed since then. This case was a fraud and the woman who was the party in this case is working to reverse it. It is a clear issue; medical monitoring equipment has clearly shown babies being killed in an abortion.
Ruth D. Andreas, 95
Ruth D. Andreas, 95, passed away, Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2008, in Sandpoint.
Leon LeRoy Rich, 85
Leon LeRoy Rich, 85, fell asleep in Christ on Jan. 30, 2008 after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson's and two strokes in March 2006.
Emma Maria McConnell, 90
Emma Maria McConnell, 90, passed away in Sandpoint, Idaho on Saturday, Feb. 2, 2008. Private family services will be held with interment in Pinecrest Memorial Park.
Idaho needs to protect rights of all people
As Americans operating under the primary legal entitlement of "equal protection under the law" we, too, are required to reciprocate socially and treat all persons as equal. Certainly, the term "equal" does not apply to financial benefits or physical attributes, but connotes equally in a spiritual context. This was benchmark of the Declaration of Independence which contended that all have been endowed by our creator with rights that cannot be separated from the individual and that among those are: life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. As such, when we deny these rights to others we violate not only our mutual social contract but God's law.
A big hooray for National Guard, LPOSD folks
How about a big hoo-yah to the National Guard troops who are here to help shovel out several of the schools in Sandpoint.
Feds need to make tax cut permanent
Presidents from both parties — Kennedy and Bush to name two — have firmly taken the position that tax cuts stimulate the economy and increase tax revenue to our treasury. Our president, together with members of both parties, is pushing for the issuance of a rebate to individual taxpayers for the purpose of jolting the economy. Now, I'm not smart enough to prove if this is a good thing or a bad thing. Intuitively, however, I say any program that keeps more of your dollars out of Congress' wallet is a good thing. Similarly, any program that pries your tax dollar out of their hands and gets it back to you is also a good thing.
SHS girls hope to start up lacrosse
A group of Sandpoint High School girls trying to start up a lacrosse team is hoping their energy, coupled with some support from the community, will help them reach their goal.
Maras wins the Bee Super Bowl Challenge
SANDPOINT — For the second year in a row, the Bee Super Bowl Challenge has been won by a casual NFL football fan, at best.
Taija Lyn Belwood
Taija Lyn Belwood, born Jan. 25, 1990, passed away Dec. 31, 2007, after a car accident at 11:30 a.m.
Saturday, February 2
Hillary offers Americans more than just hope
Gail Locke's letter outlined her belief that Barack Obama offers hope to the country. But aren't we tired of hoping for change in this country? Wouldn't it be better to elect someone who does a little more than talk about hope and change without ever giving us an idea of how it could be done? We don't need another cheerleader in the White House.
Edwards is a true advocate, populist
Over the past several weeks the media has bombarded us with polls that show Senator Clinton leading the Democratic Presidential nomination race. Well I thnk that the results of the first primaries and caucuses have given lie to the inevitability of her inaugeration. On Jan. 28, another heavy blow was dealt to her campaign when the entire Kennedy Clan threw their support behind Sen. Obama.
Edwards is still the best person for the job
For the last eight years, I have felt that America and its people are not as good as we can be. I believe in the progressive movements and ideas that freed the slaves, gave women the right to vote, created fair and safe working conditions, sustained us during the Great Depression, provided benefits to our World War II veterans, ensured equal public education for our children, and guaranteed civil rights for all.
Friday, February 1
Second half of Great Scott pursuit wraps up
The second half of the Great Scott Pursuit, part of of the 2008 Nordic Race Series, ran at Schweitzer last weekend.The race was a "reverse pursuit." The times for the first race determined the starting times for the second race, in theory making for a close finish for all competitors.The race had more than 35 competitors, including the Nordic team from Spokane.Overall Pursuit Participant/Adjusted TimeJack Rinck — 53:53Richard Beber — 54:25Aaron Bleyker — 54:30Kirsten Dehart — 54:45Jamie Emmer — 55:12Men's Open 10K SkateLee France — 29:15Tom Dehart — 30:13Wright Alcorn — 32:21Men's Over 50 10K SkateJared France — 31:03Jamie Emmer — 36:40Richard Beber — 54:25Men's Over 50 5K SkateBill McPhearson — 19:17Men's Open 10K TraditionalDan Porker — 42:37Women's Open 10K SkateKirsten Dehart — 35:33Jane Rockwell — 44:16Sally Smales — 49:21Women's Over 50 10K SkateCoral France — 40:46Women's Open 5K SkateArlene Cook — 21:47Women's Open 5K TraditionalPaula Lee — 31:53Women's Over 50 5K TraditionalCynthia Dalsing — 39:24Junior Male 10K SkateDerek Alcorn — 27:51Ryan Utsey — 29:45Arrol Bryant — 30:12Junior Female 10K SkateKiersten Utsey — 0:34:55Jeanie Nelson — 36:30Junior Male 10K TraditionalMichael Townshed — 31:19Junior Female 10K TraditionalAnnie Porkorny — 34:49Junior Male 5K SkateScott Strong — 20:22Dylan Driscoll — 27:22Junior Female 5K SkateMcKenzie Momany — 22:30U12 5K SkateColin McCarthy — 20:41Ian McCarthy — 21:55Jack Rinck —39:26
