Ellington

Giving thanks for life's many blessings

On this Thanksgiving Day, I would like to use some ink and a few trees to point out a few things I am thankful for this holiday.

Cowboy Hall of Fame ropes rave reviews during trip to OKC

Jeff and Donna Rokstad are going to make the most of this upcoming weekend in Boise.

Hundreds trot out for Thanksgiving Day benefit walk

What a great turnout for Sandpoint’s Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. More than 200 walked, jogged and chatted on an overcast, but nice morning.

Cookbook bakes up tasty Christmas gift with a local flair

I just wrote out a check to my newspaper carrier, Bobbi Hunting.

A Decade of Champions: two powerhouse squads

SANDPOINT — The cream rose to the top in 2008, as two of the most storied programs in the state flexed their respective muscles and took home yet another banner to add to the ever-growing collection.

PCDC delivers Christmas cheer

PONDERAY — A festive atmosphere provided the backdrop for a presentation to the city of Ponderay on behalf of the Ponderay Community Development Corporation.

Special trombone highlights instrument donations to school

Doug Guy is going to give 94 year olds a bad name.

Lawmakers wade into winter pool issue

SANDPOINT — The chorus of voices calling for further study of a Bonneville Power Administration proposal to fluctuate Lake Pend Oreille’s winter pool is growing.

Martha Oma Thompson, 82

Martha Oma Thompson, 82, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 27, 2009 in Sandpoint, Idaho.

Judge declines to nullify Brown divorce

SANDPOINT — A judge is declining to nullify the divorce settlement first-degree murder suspect Keith Allen Brown entered into with his former wife.

Baseball debuts in A Decade of Champions

SANDPOINT — Say this for the 2006 Sandpoint sports season: it didn’t lack for drama.

Hayden man faces multiple charges

SANDPOINT — A 29-year-old Hayden man was arrested early Christmas morning on a raft of criminal charges following a felony drunken driving investigation.

Wampus Cats steal way past Knights

PLUMMER — Senior guard Shaina Gustafson continues to wreak havoc to opposing offenses, grabbing 12 steals to go with a game-high 19 points in Clark Fork’s 54-31 win over Lakeside Tuesday in North Star League girls basketball in Plummer.

Ensure firms focus is on you

On Saturday I received a call from a very distraught lady stating that her home had caught fire and needed assistance. I immediately dispatched a Journeyman and two apprentices to the scene.

Hatfield honored for BONfire program

SANDPOINT — Bonner County’s wildfire protection program has reduced hazardous fuels on 1,245 acres of timberland and protected 1,941 homes in the last five years.

Drugs stolen from BF pharmacy

BONNERS FERRY — Prescription drugs with a street value of several thousand dollars were stolen during a break-in at Well Life Pharmacy inside Boundary Trading Co., police said.

P&Z takes up proposed map changes

SANDPOINT — The Bonner County Planning & Zoning Commission will take up nearly 20 proposed amendments to the county’s comprehensive land use and zoning maps next month.

Hearing set in rape case

SANDPOINT — A hearing is set to determine if a Sandpoint man should be bound over to stand trial on a rape charge.

Accused child abuser pleads

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man accused of striking his 3-year-old son because the child woke him up is scheduled to be sentenced next month.

Make heath screenings one of your goals in 2010

As you’re making your New Year’s resolutions for 2010, resolve to take care of your health by putting health screenings at the top.

What happened to respecting everyone?

I just want to say that I agree with the letter from Sandra Woller regarding the Sarah Palin book signing event.

Jennifer Louise Eisele

Jennifer Louise Eisele passed away at her parents’ home in Elmira on Tuesday Dec 15, 2009. She lived for four wonderful, loving, and friend-filled months after being diagnosed with terminal ovarian cancer in August 2009. Jennifer recently enjoyed a luau with her friends and family in celebration of her 35th birthday, Dec. 6th.

Anna Pauline Olson Johnson

Anna Pauline Olson Johnson died peacefully on Dec. 20, 2009, at the home of her daughter in Bountiful, Utah, from the effects of leukemia and age.

Jesus loves all the children of the world

Dear Aryan Nations,

Community's generosity means a lot to DAV

My name is Ross Jackman; I am the commander of the Sandpoint Disabled American Veterans, Audrey Murphy Chapter No. 15. We meet the third Wednesday of every month, 6:30 p.m., at the VFW hall on the corner of Division  and Pine Street, Sandpoint and our meetings are open to the public. The DAV is instrumental in joint ventures with other veterans organizations in Sandpoint such as the Vietnam Veterans of America and the VFW Veterans of Foreign Wars, we donate to local food banks, help veterans, and families in need with home repairs, building wheelchair ramps, shoveling snow for the elderly, cutting and delivering firewood, and much, much more.

A Decade of Champions: soccer teams reclaim titles

SANDPOINT — Charting eerily similar courses, the Sandpoint boys and girls soccer teams won state titles on the same day for the fourth time in five years.

Sarah Palin protest was disrespectful

The Dec. 12 article in the Bee about a group of Democrat party members, led by chairwoman Laura Bry, who decided to make a non-political book signing into a tasteless and ugly political statement. Why would a group deny Sarah Palin the right to have a peaceful and friendly event in the town where she was born, and in the building where her father was a student and teacher? Laura Bry stated she didn’t want to be anti-Palin but it was obvious the group was there to be disrespectful and disruptive. Considering all of Sarah Palin’s quantities, one stands out, and that is class. Too bad Laura Bry and her group didn’t show any.

Driver's carelessness hurt family's holiday

This is an open letter to the yahoo who ran down the mailboxes on West Pine on Dec. 5 early in the morning. You did a really good job annihilating (a big word for destroy) mine. The cost to replace it took a big chunk out of our limited holiday fund.

Power house helped bring holiday magic to area Christmas trees

Twas the season of Christmas, when all through the house, every light was burning, both inside and out. This is the season of lights, and many families drive up and down the city streets to enjoy the decorations that bring a twinkle to the eye of kids from one to 100. Christmas lights, of all shape and forms, have been with us so long that we cannot imagine a time when they did not exist. But there was such a time.

Old Power House helped to brig holiday magic to area Christmas trees

     Twas the season of Christmas, when all through the house, every light was burning, both inside and out. This is the season of lights, and many families drive up and down the city streets to enjoy the decorations that bring a twinkle to the eye of kids from one to 100. Christmas lights, of all shape and forms, have been with us so long that we cannot imagine a time when they did not exist. But there was such a time.

'NARSID' cases draw scrutiny

SANDPOINT — There are few greater thrills on Schweitzer Mountain than gliding through stands of rime-coated evergreens on a pillow of untracked powder.

Shultz's art inspires new play

Paintings come to life in ‘Red Tape’

SANDPOINT — Some people scan a piece of art and catch the thread of a story. Sandpoint’s Teresa Pesce sees entire plays.

Health & Welfare's actions far-reaching

I am “Joey’s” big sister, Alicia. I just want to express my feelings. I don’t think Health and Welfare understands what they have done.

More intervention means more complexity

In response to Mr. Ramsey’s opinion of the need for health care reform (Daily Bee, Dec. 10), I applaud his concern for the welfare of the general public, but I feel he is not looking at the overall picture.

We need a better handle on 'waste'

Due to the exploitation of long existent technology, garbage is now a resource and should no longer be seen an a nuisance.

Council adopts ban on text messaging while driving

Mayor Hellar said she might veto legislation

SANDPOINT — A proposal to restrict wireless communications by motorists within city limits has regained reception with the City Council.

Harding in trouble with the law again

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County woman implicated in the killing of a Priest Lake man in 2007 is back behind bars again.

Local teens have presidential pen pal

SANDPOINT — Three Bonner County teens have a pen pal in a high place.

Teen charged with lewd conduct

SANDPOINT — A Priest River teen was arrested Monday on allegations that he molested a 7-year-old boy.

A Decade of Champions: Bulldogs lickety split in '03

SANDPOINT — Fast and powerful was the Sandpoint boys track team in aught-three.

William Clyde Johnson, 15

On Dec. 22, 2009, William Clyde Johnson, age 15, was tragically taken from his loving family. He passed away from injuries sustained in a skiing accident.

Christmas memories, wishes fill students' thoughts

SANDPOINT — Forget sugar plums and Christmas specials, the real memories of the holiday season have little to do with presents but with friends and family.

Ponderay woman awaits the gift of life

PONDERAY — A Bonner County woman is advocating for the gift of life this holiday season.

A Decade of Champions: yet another three-peat

SANDPOINT — Hard as it is to fathom from a team featuring three future college wrestlers and coming off two of the most dominating seasons in the history of Idaho, but the 2003 Bulldog wrestlers viewed themselves as underdogs.

William Clyde Johnson, 15

William Clyde Johnson, 15, of Sandpoint, Idaho, died Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2009, while skiing at Schweitzer Mountain.

Driver cited after collision

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man was charged with inattentive driving following a three-vehicle collision on U.S. Highway 95 in Sagle earlier this month.

Investigation into accident continuing

SANDPOINT — Bonner County Sheriff’s officials are continuing their investigation into an apparent skiing accident which killed a 15-year-old on Tuesday.

May holiday season be merry and bright

Clouds of gray loom just above.

More Dems were inside than outside

Regarding the anti Palin demonstration:

Advisory board stands to do well under reform

Been reading the Bernie Sanders, D-Vt., amendment (700 pages) to the House health care reform bill (H.R. 3200), which I have read (2200 pages). Interesting is that as the Sanders amendment (H.R. 3590) was being read, page-by-page, on the floor, Sanders withdrew it. To me, this was done because he didn’t want anyone to know what is in it.

Friends turn to Facebook to mourn teen

Within a few hours of learning about his friend, Will Johnson’s skiing death Tuesday, Mike Peitzer decided to grieve in his own way.

State, not county, wasting tax dollars

In my letter (Dec. 16), I expressed my frustration about the blatant waste of county tax dollars. I apologize for my lack of attention to detail. It was, and is not the county wasting so much money on repetitive plowing of bare roads, it’s the state of Idaho. All reference made about the county snow plows was incorrect. However, the point remains the same. The massive waste of Idaho tax dollars should be everyone’s concern. After the first couple passes, the other 14 plus were a complete waste of wages, fuel and manpower.

Lions help community help itself

What outstanding news!

A Decade of Champions: A rare season of perfection

SANDPOINT — As if boasting four future college players, an undefeated record and a national ranking wasn’t enough, the Sandpoint volleyball team got the rare opportunity to play for the state title in the cozy and partisan home confines of Les Rogers Court.

A decade of champions: Brothers get Feisty-y

SANDPOINT — The 2002 Sandpoint wrestling team had a little bit of everything: A sterling reputation to uphold, an undefeated wrestler, a national ranking and four more individual state champions to add to the ever-expanding list.

Leroy Ernest 'Lee' Hedlund

Leroy Ernest “Lee” Hedlund passed on to our Lord on Dec. 17, 2009.

Michael James 'Knuck' Norman

Michael James “Knuck” Norman passed away on Dec. 18, 2009, after a year-long struggle from a stroke.

Sandpoint students enjoying handball class

SANDPOINT — Sneakers were squeaking, the ball was flying around at all kinds of crazy angles, players were diving to the floor, and most importantly, laughing and smiling, as a host of Sandpoint High School students participated in a free handball class Tuesday afternoon at the SWAC.

Judgment entered in Ponzi case

SANDPOINT — A Washington state court has imposed a $300,000 judgment against a former Bonner County real estate agent accused of orchestrating a Ponzi scheme, court records in Idaho indicate.

Skiing accident claims teen's life

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint High School sophomore died following a skiing accident at Schweitzer Mountain Resort on Tuesday.

Gustafson leads Cats to win

COEUR d’ALENE — Shaina Gustafson just missed a triple-double, scoring 10 points to go with eight assists and a whopping 15 steals to lead Clark Fork to a 50-28 win over Coeur d’Alene Charter Tuesday in nonleague girls basketball at Holy Family Catholic School.

Tractor Man puts focus on customers

SANDPOINT — Like the area they live in, Mike and Cheryl Seitz say their business is a year-round enterprise as well.

Royce Darin Castle, 41

Royce Darin Castle, 41, of Sagle, Idaho, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 20, 2009, in Post Falls, Idaho.

This holiday season, remember those serving U.S.

Last week I received several calls requesting a re-print of the “Soldiers Christmas” poem.

Trial set in wolf killing

SANDPOINT — A jury trial is pending for a Bonner County man who shot a gray wolf that he perceived as a threat in his neighborhood south of Priest Lake.

Treatments effective at controlling psoriasis

Psoriasis is the most prevalent autoimmune disease in the U.S., affecting as many as 7.5 million Americans. In simplest terms, psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that is characterized by rough, flaky skin and severe dry patches, with symptoms often worsening in harsh winter climates.  It occurs when the immune system sends out faulty signals resulting in red, scaly patches on the skin that bleed and itch.  Psoriasis is not contagious.

Jenny's impact felt throughout the year

The meaning of the term community is realized in Sandpoint in many ways. I’ve been touched by the generosity and the inspired vision of “Celebrate Life”.  As a nurse at BGH’s out patient clinic, I am positioned to see some of the help that Celebrate Life has given “those in the community who are affected by cancer”.  

Frances Fanning, 92

Frances Fanning, 92, passed away on Dec. 11, 2009, in San Diego, Calif.

TV disposal fee adopted

SANDPOINT — Tossing a television will set you back $12 at Bonner County waste collection sites starting next year.

Community helping to save puppies

SANDPOINT — It’s been a tough year for Chris and Bridgett Barley.

2002 was the year of the three-peat

SANDPOINT — Nobody knows who first said “good things come in threes” or even why they said it, but they’d certainly get no argument from Randy Thoreson or Adam Tajan, who each stewarded their teams to a third consecutive 4A state title in 2002.

Fatal collision remains under review

SANDPOINT — Drugs, alcohol and reckless driving have been ruled out of a deadly collision between a pedestrian and pickup truck driver, according to Idaho State Police.

Global warming and the planet's popluation

The global ice caps are melting. The farms and cities of Bangladesh and other low-lying areas are already under water. And yet we have people going around claiming “global warming is nothing but a joke.”

Community's warmth means a great deal

This community can make most any person feel extremely appreciated. Sometimes saying, “Thank you so much,” to everyone who supported the Buff Johnson benefit auction just does not seem like enough praise for so many good people. This year has not been the best year for earning income, making a profit in business, or even paying monthly bills.

Special publication is a wonderful treat

Kudos to the writers, publishers, arborists and foresters, tree lovers and other enthusiasts for the beautiful booklet, “Outstanding Trees of Sandpoint, Idaho.”

Early station broadcast historic entertainment

     If we had the power to turn back the clock to the 1920s, we might see afamily from out Kootenai way sitting together for the first time to enjoy an historic evening of entertainment. The scheduled performers were popular in the area and almost all the family members had seen them perform at a church or in a school auditorium. However, tonight was different because the family was not in a church basement or a school auditorium. They were at home, sitting in the kitchen, with a large bowl of pop corn on the kitchen table. All present, from young to old, shared the excitement of an event that Sandpoint and Bonner County had awaited with great interest.

Agency's Web page clarifies process

Over the past several weeks, a number of news stories and Internet postings have been published regarding an adoption case involving the Blackfords, a local Bonner County family.

Hometown shopping benefits everyone

‘Tis the season to wrap up Christmas shopping.

IMCB to keep $27M in federal funds

$1.2M used to-date for community programs

SANDPOINT — Last Monday, President Obama dressed down top executives from Bank of America, U.S. Bancorp and other lending institutions and told them to cut loose with the taxpayer money that hauled them back from the brink of financial ruin this year. After being rescued from a collapse that was “of their own making,” he told the bankers, they now have an obligation to put that money to work in the form of small business loans that are needed to jump-start the economy.

Longtime postal worker putting stamp on retirement

SANDPOINT — After ending his 30-year career in public serivce, Mike Clark said it will be the people he will miss the most.

Demonstrators do not belong at book signing

I was appalled and ashamed this morning on reading of the protesters at Sara Plain’s book signing last Thursday.

Article was offensive to long-time residents

How wonderful that you decided to bless the residents of Bonner County with a front page article touting the Pedersens and their obviously ostentatious (at least by our third generation Bonner County resident standards) home — actually, appears to be a thinly veiled ad to help them dump this monstrosity in this obvious economic and real estate downturn.

Basin board seeking support

SANDPOINT — Idaho’s Pend Oreille Basin Commission is hoping to rally the support of elected officials in its effort to convince the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to take a more cautious approach to fluctuating the level of Lake Pend Oreille.

Stone Creek adds trio to enhance services

PRIEST RIVER — Stone Creek has purchased Inland Northwest Consultant’s Priest River office, a move that benefits both firms, according to officials.

Belgarde leads Bulldog wrestlers at Tri-State tournament

COEUR d’ALENE — Defending champion Garret Belgarde pinned his first three opponents Friday to lead Sandpoint at the 38th Annual Tri-State wrestling tournament at North Idaho College, which features  more than 40 teams from around the northwest.

Hearings pending in molestation case

SANDPOINT — Defense counsel for an Athol man accused of molestation is asking a judge to determine the competency of the alleged victim to testify as a witness in the case.

Avalanche danger 'considerable' in IPNF

SANDPOINT — The U.S. Forest Service is warning backcountry visitors of avalanche danger in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests.

A Decade of Champions: Four titles in one day

SANDPOINT — Nov. 2, 2002, is a day that will never be equaled in the annals of Sandpoint sports history, as the Bulldogs claimed an unbelievable four state titles that Saturday. They say records are made to be broken, but with the state tournaments on different weekends now, this one might just last forever.

Trial ordered in pistol incident

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County teen was ordered Wednesday to stand trial for allegedly pointing a pistol at an 11-year-old boy at a Priest River apartment complex last month.

Spartans down Cats

PRIEST RIVER — The host Spartans advanced to the championship game of the Priest River Christmas Tournament after defeating Clark Fork 56-20 Friday night. 

Bulldogs suffer hard-luck loss to West Valley at buzzer

SPOKANE — The Bulldogs were able to overcome fatigue, foul trouble, a tough road crowd and a double digit deficit to lead West Valley by one point with .5 seconds left on the clock late Wednesday night in nonleague boys basketball at West Valley High School.

County's juvenile lockup certification in doubt

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Department of Juvenile Corrections is giving Bonner County high marks again for its juvenile detention staff, administration and programming.

A decade of champions: Soccer standouts

SANDPOINT — Five times the Sandpoint boys and girls soccer teams have won state titles in the same season. For a frame of reference, no other school in the state has ever done it once.

Hands-free rule gets thumbs down

SANDPOINT — A proposed rule requiring motorists to use a hands-free device while driving and talking on their cell phones within the city limits was narrowly defeated Wednesday.

Writer's blatant 'bribe' for vote is appalling

I found it fascinating that in his guest opinion of Dec. 6,  2009, Mr. Starr was so blatant in his offer of a bribe to Rep. Walt Minnick, D-Idaho. One might be so crass as to suggest that this is an attempt to buy the congressman’s vote on health care legislation.  But I don’t suppose that sort of thing happens outside of Chicago.

Suspect enters plea in break-in case

SANDPOINT — Faced with a new suite of criminal charges, a Bonner County man implicated in break-ins at a storage unit business entered a plea on Wednesday.

Wanda Marie Bailey

Wanda Marie Bailey passed away Dec. 14, 2009, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, of natural causes.

Mildred H. Moreland, 93

Mildred H. Moreland, 93, Sandpoint, died Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009 at Bonner General Hospital. 

Tell senators that we need reform now

Have you noticed all the community dinners and events to help neighbors with medical expenses? In those, I see two messages. The first is that we live in a wonderful part of the world where neighbors reach out to help others. The second is that we need to reform our health care system.

Suspect waives preliminary hearing

SANDPOINT — A Priest River man was bound over Wednesday to stand trial for allegedly molesting an 11-year-old girl.

City Beach fee proposal defeated

SANDPOINT — A controversial proposal to charge non-residents a fee to park their vehicles at City Beach during the summer sank on a split vote on Wednesday.

A Decade of Champions- 2001: a wrestling odyssey

SANDPOINT — It’s tough to tell what was most impressive about the 2001 Sandpoint Bulldogs wrestling team, arguably one of the best ever from the state of Idaho.

Targeted increase is a bad idea for Idaho

“Idaho must consider targeted tax increase,” proposes Bob Wynhausen. A five percent tax increase proposed by Democrat legislator Shirley Ringo was tagged by the governor as class warfare. If you draw a line through the middle of our taxpayers and say all the above get a tax increase and all below do not, that is definitely class warfare. Bob goes on to say the governor “doesn’t want to go to war with his supporters among the wealthy and business classes.” I can understand his envy of  “ the wealthy,” we have so many roaring around Sandpoint in their black Rolls Royces, but I don’t get what Bob has against “business classes.” Does that mean our local shop keepers, our building contractors or does that mean the two kids who pooled their money to buy shovels so they could clean sidewalks of snow? These are all business classes, Bob.

Economists predict slow rebound

COEUR d’ALENE — One indication of the state of the economy was revealed Friday when Wells Fargo held its annual Economic Outlook not in an expensive resort convention center, but instead via teleconference.

Stop unnecessary waste of tax dollars

Where exactly do our tax dollars go? This morning I watched the snowplows go by 10 times in under two hours. With only 1-2 inches of snow on the ground, how does the county justify such a blantant waste of our money? After the first pass there was no snow to plow and how much de-ice is enough? Come on people, we have a voice and I feel we should use it. Stop this totally unnecessary waste of tax dollars. Safety is paramount I agree but, when is enough enough?

Bullpups place 10 of 16 wrestlers at districts

SANDPOINT — Lily DeAragon (104 pounds) pinned every one of her opponents to become the first girl to win a middle school District 1-2 title, and Colton Redding (137 pounds) avenged a loss to an opponent from earlier in the season en route to a title, leading a strong showing by the Sandpoint Middle School wrestlers at the recent district tournament.

Christmas trees help spread holiday cheer

Most of us don’t realize that our Christmas customs, songs, images of Santa, pine trees and glass ornaments migrated to us from Germany. It’s interesting how these traditions really got started.

A Decade of Champions: closing out the year 2000

SANDPOINT — The Daily Bee sports page continues its look back at each of the 23 Sandpoint High School state champions from this decade, which comes to an end in just 15 days. Today’s installment features the 2000 boys soccer team, and the 2000 girls volleyball team, rounding out the three champions from that year.

Julia Fay Schultz

Julia Fay Schultz passed away at her Grand Junction, Colo., home on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009.

Thief strikes county treasurer's office

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint Police are investigating an apparent burglary at the Bonner County Treasurer’s Office.

City takes up sewer, water rate hikes

SANDPOINT — The City Council is conducting a public hearing tonight to set new rates for water and sewer customers now that voters have approved a bond to update the lakeside water treatment plant.

Jobless rate creeps upward

Truss Tek plant manager Steve Kauffman was somewhat surprised to get 40 applicants for one job opening at the Three-Mile area company.

Coping with loss during holidays can be difficult

During the holidays, many people are dealing with loss and are often caught in a dilemma between the need to grieve and the pressure to get into the spirit of the season. Holidays or not, if you’re grieving the loss of a loved one, it’s important to find ways to take care of yourself.  These thoughts may be helpful:

Nesbitts combine for 30 in loss to Charter

CLARK FORK — Clark Fork kept the game close for a half, before Bob Sanders took over to lead Coeur d’Alene Charter to a 56-43 nonleague win over the Wampus Cats Tuesday night at Clark Fork High School.

Cornerback Hogan lone Bulldog to earn first team selection

SANDPOINT — Befitting a team that nearly won a state title, the Sandpoint football team landed five players on the 4A All-Idaho football team, announced Sunday by the Idaho Statesman newspaper in Boise.

A decade of champions: Sandpoint Bulldogs style

SANDPOINT — As aught-nine comes to a close, journalists the world over are busy compiling lists from the decade. Best movies of the decade. Biggest stories. Best teams. Best songs. Best of . . . ad nauseum.

Oregon festival is sure to fund local proposal

I think having one here would be an excellent idea. Our local winery could make a batch of Mead and Lucky Dog could make a period ale for the events. The new floating amphitheater could be moored in the Sand Creek backwater when the lake is high and moved into the lake during the winter.

Three Bulldogs grab second at St. Maries

St. MARIES — Garret Belgarde (119 pounds), Payton Dillon (103) and Leonard Fister (160) each placed second to lead the Bulldogs in their season opening wrestling tournament last weekend at the two-day St. Maries Invitational.

Lawsuit on hold - for now

COEUR d’ALENE — Before the lawsuit goes any further, attorney Starr Kelso wants to talk.

Don's Drive-In was the top spot to be to hang out, visit

     (There is a certain age group around town that has a unique reaction when they hear the words, Don’s Drive-In. First, there is the knowing smile followed by a twinkle in the eyes. Any observer of these “kids

Why the hate over former VP candidate?

What is it about Sarah Palin that brings out so much fear and hate from the left? Could it be because she is open and honest, and looks you in the eye while talking. Her history is out in the open for all to see. Unlike our sitting president who has spent a small fortune concealing his records (birth, school, passport, draft registration, employment). What do you really know about him?

Nancy Carol Barnes, 62

Nancy Carol Barnes, 62, passed away peacefully on Nov. 23, 2009, in University Place, Wash.

Plea entered in choking case

SANDPOINT — A Washington state man implicated in a violent domestic dispute entered an Alford plea to a felony charge Thursday to resolve the criminal case against him.

Walking is a right, driving is a privilege

How many pedestrians have to be killed in this “walking town”? In the first place, motorists are speeding on Fifth and Boyer avenues. It never ceases to amaze me, when the fall and winter months roll around, motorists become speedier and greedier. God forbid, those motorists are walking in the cold with sort-of cleared sidewalks and bad lightning.

Pend Oreille Health Care opens doors

Jane Hoover, a  family practice nurse practitioner in Sandpoint for three years, has opened her own practice in collaboration with Michelle Anderson, NP, at 710 Superior Street. 

Proposal to charge beach-goers is wrong

On Dec. 9, I read about a proposed fee for use of City Beach by people who weren’t residents of Sandpoint.  A fee for use of City Beach is a bad idea, unless the entire county is given a pass. City residents can walk or ride bikes or take the bicycle taxis to the beach. Those of us that live out of town can’t as easily get to the beach. If you impose a fee it should be for all users or only non-residents of the county.  Personally I think it should be as it always has been — space available for the first to come.

Entire family missing 'Joey' every day

That little sweet-ums, Joey, is my missing nephew! His brothers and sisters, along with our teenagers, have toddled him around our farm many times. He’s tromped in the puddles with our daughter, Betti, whom he just adores and smothers with kisses whether she likes it or not. He has snuck into the garden with her and gotten lost in the green beans. Where is he? Where is he now? We want to watch those two toddlers hold hands, wander around and explore the barn and catch the wily kittens. We want to see him fall and dirty his knee and be scooped up by Anna or Lacey with a gentle hug and a little kiss on the knee of his jeans.

State seeks $2M judgment from Lowell

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Department of Finance is seeking a default judgment of nearly $2.1 million against a former Bonner County man accused of bilking investors through a stock-option Ponzi scheme.

Fourth quarter propels Kellogg girls past SHS

SANDPOINT — Kellogg outscored Sandpoint 20-6 in a decisive fourth quarter, propelling the Wildcats to a 47-29 win in nonleague girls basketball action Monday night at Les Rogers Court.

Idaho must consider targeted tax increase

In these hard times, the state is facing more cuts in services. A Democratic legislator, Shirley Ringo, has proposed a temporary 5-percent surcharge (tax increase) on individuals’ taxable income in excess of $50,000. It would raise about $44 million a year. As you might expect, the governor, who called the increase class warfare, has rejected the idea.

Kirscher leads Bulldog girls to first win

PENDLETON, Ore. — Sophomore Maggie Kirscher posted a solid double-double, tallying 26 points and 12 rebounds to help the Bulldogs notch their first victory of the season, a 57-41 win over Ontario in the third place game of the Pendleton Tournament on Saturday.

Hundreds turn out to greet former VP candidate

SANDPOINT — Dick Jewell made a quick request to 2008 vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin, who returned to her birthplace Thursday evening to promote her book, “Going Rogue: An American Story.”

CdA drops charges in littering case

COEUR d’ALENE — The Aryan Nations will continue to distribute its literature across North Idaho and Eastern Washington, one member said Wednesday.

Dancers discover fountain of youth

Group welcomes new faces, friends

SANDPOINT — Conversations buzz around the room, as groups of ladies gather in threes and fours to catch their breath and catch up on one another. One woman — looking sharp in dark clothing and a pair of black cowgirl boots — busies herself at a table near the entrance.

Global warming is a very real danger

I read with interest the latest letter to the editor that adopts the climate change denial school of thought. I recognize that it’s hard to see global warming when our breath outdoors is condensing before our eyes, but there is no doubt that global temperatures are rising.

Nearly a decade of five lanes on Fifth Avenue

 Fifth Avenue was originally a three-lane road. I remember it. Sandpoint was different then, maybe even better. In 2000, the Idaho Transportation Department proposed to redo Fifth Avenue because it’s a highway. In the original plans, ITD proposed a treed median with intermittent center turn lanes. This was later removed from the plans to allow easier vehicle access to businesses along the route. The five lane road we have today was constructed a little later. It fails us in almost every way. 

Arson suspect waives preliminary hearing

SANDPOINT — A Louisiana man accused of starting a fire at a Sandpoint motel and forcing its evacuation waived his right to a preliminary hearing on Wednesday.

Buratto explodes for 35 in Bulldogs' win

PENDLETON, Ore. — Senior shooting guard Stefan Buratto went off for a season-high 35 points to help lead Sandpoint to a 60-50 win and a third place finish Saturday at the Pendleton Tournament in Oregon.

Dems represent at Palin event

SANDPOINT — Local Democrats turned out Thursday to demonstrate that not everybody in Bonner County buys what Sarah Palin is selling.

Plea is entered in gun incident

SANDPOINT — A Washington state man pleaded innocent Monday to allegations that he pulled handgun on two people during a confrontation outside an Oldtown bar.

Sandpoint athletes fare well at jiu-jitsu tournament

HELENA, Mont. — Seven members of the Integrative/Grapplers Guild team from Sandpoint competed in a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournament in Helena, Mont. last weekend, posting some strong finishes and bringing home some hardware.

Don's Drive-In was top spot to hang out

(There is a certain age group around town that has a unique reaction when they hear the words, Don’s Drive-In. First, there is the knowing smile followed by a twinkle in the eyes. Any observer of these “kids of yesterday” expects that any moment they will join Bob Hope in a rousing round of, “Thanks for the Memories.”

theater professors propose local festival

Concept sparks interest in city, arts community

Terry Converse, center-left, and Will Shephard, center-right, discuss their Shakespeare in Sandpoint festival concept with, from right, POAC board member Marilyn Sabella, Mayor Gretchen Hellar, City Councilman John Reuter and University of Montana theater graduate Greta Weber. (Photo by DAVID GUNTER)

Bulldog boys and girls upended by Clarkston

PENDLETON, Ore. — Maggie Kirscher dropped in a season-high 20 points to lead Sandpoint’s best offensive output of the season, but Clarkston and Nebraska-bound Kellie McCann Smith were too much in the opening round of the Pendleton Tournament on Friday, dropping the Bulldogs 78-62.

Hearing postponed in exploitation case

SANDPOINT — A preliminary hearing has been postponed for a Bonner County woman accused of draining a stroke victim’s bank account.

Hands-free ordinance heads to full council

SANDPOINT — A proposal that would require motorists to use hands-free devices while using their cell phones in the city will be taken up by the City Council.

Harry Lee Groanvelt, 63

Harry Lee Groanvelt, 63, passed away in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2009.

Host of Bulldogs shooting for state title

SANDPOINT — Some leaders do so strictly be example, letting their actions do the talking.

Oliver Hyde Bell, 90

Oliver Hyde Bell, 90, passed away on Dec. 9, 2009, at the Life Care Center in Sandpoint, Idaho.

Catching up with current, former ski racers

• Big League report — Olympic years have a real impact on the World Cup competitors. It’s truly the big show and they are all vying for the few slots available to each nation. The elevated intensity makes these the best seasons for ski racing fans. The season is still young, but the World Cup circuit is well under way. It started at Solden, Austria on Oct. 25 and is now in North America. Two-time overall World Cup Champion Lindsey Vonn is at it again and atop the 2010 standings. She won two Downhills and took Silver in Super G at Lake Louise last weekend, and The Edge had the pleasure of watching it live. 

Let's get a few facts straight

I am writing this in response to Mr. Larry Kettle’s letter to the editor in the Nov. 22, 2009 paper. Mr. Kettle lists five reasons why President Obama is a liar. He claims he has never answered the questions regarding his relationship with ACORN and he also states “Not one bill has been placed on the internet to be viewed by the public,” etc.

Timberlake claims wins over Cats

CLARK FORK — Shaina Gustafson had eight points, five rebounds and six steals, and Chelsea Macumber added seven points, but it wasn’t enough, as Clark Fork fell 60-25 to Timberlake in nonleague girls basketball action Tuesday night in Clark Fork.

Laughing Dog Brewing welcomes sales manager

Mike Deprez has joined Laughing Dog Brewing as sales manager.

Crocker: U.S. residents 'geographically challenged'

It’s hard to think of a Middle Eastern hotspot during the past four decades where former U.S. Ambassador Ryan Crocker wasn’t involved.

Crystal clear tips keep dishes sparkling

Last week several calls came in requesting I re-run the article I wrote on holiday crystal.  So for Nan, Terry, Sharia and Tonie; I hope this helps.

PBCA fundraiser is a success

SANDPOINT — The Panhandle Building Contractors Association held its final fundraiser of the year with a wonderfully successful prize giveaway in conjunction with the Sandpoint High School Residential Carpentry Program.  Much of the net proceeds of the event were donated to the SHS program.

We need to adopt health care reform

Health care costs are the fastest growing expense the average American faces today. Ask our senior citizens, who are facing 100-percent increases in their Medicare supplemental insurance premiums next year.

Plea entered in truck case

SANDPOINT — A Bayview man pleaded not guilty Monday to using a neighbor’s pickup truck without permission, a vehicle which he totaled while driving drunk on U.S. Highway 95.

We must work together to improve safety

In the wake of the recent tragic loss of life at the intersection of Fifth and Cedar, I suggest that we all bear some responsibility to make our community a better place. I ache for the driver of the vehicle as well as the family and friends of the victim.

Community will miss Teresa tremendously

I was lucky enough to meet Teresa when I moved to Sandpoint in1965.

Opposition builds against BPA proposal

SANDPOINT — Opposition to a Bonneville Power Administration plan to fluctuate the level of Lake Pend Oreille by as much as 5 feet this winter is, to borrow a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers slogan, “building strong.”

Bulldogs drop pair to Cheney

SANDPOINT — Stefan Buratto had his pull-up jumper working in mid-season form, dropping in 23 points to lead Sandpoint, which fell 69-56 to a lengthy and athletic Cheney team in home-opening boys basketball action Tuesday night at Les Rogers Court.

Think safety with holiday gifts for kids on your list

The Christmas holidays are quickly approaching and the shopping season is already in full swing!  As you’re making your list and checking it twice, be sure that the toys and gifts for the children on your list are safe and age appropriate.

H1N1 flu shots available to all

SANDPOINT — People of all ages and levels of health can get their H1N1 vaccinations on Saturday through the Panhandle Health District.

Aryan Nations not welcome in region

A message to the Aryan Nations:

Task force denounces Aryan Nations flier

SANDPOINT — Fliers advertising the Aryan Nations that have been turning up in Kootenai County have made their way north.

Bureaucracy chipping away at our freedom

A recent extended visit to Singapore, whose government is sometimes described as a benevolent dictatorship, got me thinking about our government. We are a constitutional republic, which by definition, limits government’s power.

Bob Fillion, 63

Bob Fillion, 63, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family at his home in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on Friday, Dec. 4, 2009.

Community made TIPS events successful

On behalf of Transitions in Progress Services, I want to thank everyone who joined us in commemorating National Homelessness and Hunger Awareness Week on Nov. 15-21.

Hands-free rule proposed

SANDPOINT — The city is contemplating an ordinance which would require motorists and cyclists to use hands-free devices while using a cellular phone within city limits.

Couple's adoption petition denied

SANDPOINT —Tuesday Judge Debra Heise denied Anna and Lacey Blackford’s petition to adopt their 2-year-old foster son.

Bulldogs looking for an encore performance at state

SANDPOINT — After getting a little taste with its first state tournament win in 43 years last season, the Sandpoint boys basketball team is hungry to prove it was no fluke, looking to start a streak of a different kind with a return trip this year.

Teresa Deshon

Teresa Deshon passed away peacefully on Dec. 2, 2009.

The Markham Family: Laclede – Seneacquoteen Pioneers

Before the white man came to this area there was a place called Seneacquoteen. The beautiful meadows and easy access to the river had from time immemorial, made it a camping place and a place of crossing for the Indians. In fact, the name itself comes from the Kalispell or Pend Oreille language and means "crossing." The early fur traders followed the same trail and in 1864, the first ferry was built to cross the river from Seneacquoteen to what is now Laclede. The gold rushes in Montana and British Columbia brought thousands of miners along the trail on their way to the digs. During this time, a wagon road ran from Walla Walla, Washington as far as the Markham ferry. A pack trail, called the Wild Horse Trail, ran from Laclede, through Sandpoint, to Bonners Ferry, and on to the White Horse mines near Fort Steele, British Columbia.

Reprehensible hunter killed beloved dog

We lost our dog Frankie, who was about 5 ‘/2 years old, last recently while we were on our morning walk.

When do torture stop and justice begin?

How is it that Keith A. Brown has been incarcerated for almost three years and still has had no trial? When does the torture stop and judicial proceedings begin? How does the prosecutor of Bonner County justify all the planned delays? Is the case against Keith Brown so weak, lacking all evidence to convict, that they are fearful to have a jury trial now? How can Keith Brown have a fair trial when folks have forgotten so much surrounding the case?

Is personal economic collapse preferred?

An interesting juxtaposition of letters in Thanksgiving’s edition of the Bee. Courtney Kinney writes a very nice missive praising the life of Buff Johnson and encouraging people to attend his benefit since “his treatments have exhausted his insurance benefits.” Ruth Bushnell castigates the proposed health care plan as a forerunner to “the economic collapse of this country.” Apparently personal economic collapse is preferable to any sort of government interference in the workings of the marketplace.

BPA seeks fluctuating lake level

Meeting Tuesday to discuss plan

SANDPOINT — A Bonneville Power Administration proposal to fluctuate the level of Lake Pend Oreille this winter is raising concern in Idaho.

Holiday indoor soccer tourneys kicking off again in Sandpoint

SANDPOINT — It’s back! Join Sandpoint Parks and Rec for two youth and adult fun-filled indoor soccer tournaments on Dec. 28-29 at the Bonner County Fairgrounds Main Exhibit Building.

Public option choice needed in country

Dear Congressman Minnick

People, places shine in 'Legendary' book

SANDPOINT — It started out as a guidebook, but like the lake that inspired the project, “Legendary Lake Pend Oreille: Idaho’s Wilderness of Water” soon proved to have a mythology too circuitous, a history too broad and subject matter far too deep to be confined by such a limited boundary.

Gustafson leads Cats to win

CLARK FORK — Shaina Gustafson had her second consecutive double-double with points and steals, tallying 18 points and 10 steals to lead the Wampus Cats to a 61-39 win over Coeur d’Alene Charter Friday night in nonleague girls basketball action.

Man arrested on lewd conduct charge

SANDPOINT — A Priest River man has been arrested on charges alleging he molested an 11-year-old girl.

Super 1 hopes for July 4 grand opening

SANDPOINT — Dirt is turning on Sandpoint’s newest grocery store.

Jesse Donald Vanhorn, 86

Jesse Donald Vanhorn, 86, passed away in Kootenai, Idaho, on Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2009, from complications of a massive stroke.

Man pleads in poaching case

BONNERS FERRY — On Wednesday, Dennis ‘Butch’ Liermann Jr. of Naples pled guilty to two counts of possesson a bull elk out of season and lost his hunting privileges for five years.

Evaline Kealiikaapuni Johnson, 84

Evaline Kealiikaapuni Johnson, 84, of California, former Sandpoint resident died Nov. 17, 2009 at her home in California. 

Bulldog girls fall to Lewiston

LEWISTON — Sophomore Maggie Kirscher scored 12 points and senior Christina Johnson added six, but a cold-shooting first half proved costly as the Bulldog girls fell behind early and never recovered in a nonleague 72-24 loss to Lewiston Thursday night.

Case expands against accused embezzler

SANDPOINT — A theft case pending against a former Oldtown grocery store manager has mushroomed.

Pair win LPOIC derby

SANDPOINT — Bonner County anglers dominated the rainbow trout standings during the Lake Pend Oreille Idaho Club’s annual Thanksgiving Derby, according to final results.

Grace Gladys Dunn, 92

Grace Gladys Dunn, 92, passed away on Monday, Nov. 30, 2009, in Sandpoint, Idaho.

Teresa Deshon

Teresa Deshon passed away peacefully on Dec. 2, 2009.

Beverley Ruelene Gregory, 75

Beverley Ruelene Gregory, 75, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2009, in Sandpoint, Idaho.

Give winter footwear problems the boot

Winter is here and with that comes wet rainy and snow-filled days.

Kimberly A. Oriole, 48

Kimberly A. Oriole, 48, of Ohiopyle, Pa., formerly of Salem, Ohio, died Nov. 26, 2009, after a three-year fight with lung cancer.

Sharon Lynne Groanvelt, 60

Sharon Lynne Groanvelt, 60, passed away in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on Sunday Nov. 29, 2009.

Welco Lumber closes doors today

BONNERS FERRY — Thursday is the last day of work for most of Welco Lumber Co.’s 93 employees.

Host of Bulldogs named to 2009 All-IEL team

SANDPOINT — Senior running back Ben Fisher was named the Offensive Most Valuable Player, Junior safety Eric Nikssarian was tabbed Defensive Newcomer of the Year, and head coach Mike Mitchell garnered Coach of the Year honors for the third consecutive year, leading a strong contingent of Bulldogs voted to the team by league coaches.

Many questions must be answered on depot

To quote from a letter to the city of Sandpoint by Frederick Walters, an historical architect and architectural conservator who works with the Idaho Heritage Trust, “… every preservation project has a “threshold” of significance to a community balanced against economic reality.” To preserve or not to preserve-is that the only issue?  Some citizens have insisted that the important issue is whether Amtrak continues to stop in its current location. They maintain without an Amtrak stop that Sandpoint and the surrounding communities would suffer economic harm and also miss an exciting economic opportunity, and that preservation of the depot is of secondary importance. Therefore, efforts should be on Amtrak decision rather than the depot So let’s look at some specific issues that must be decided to determine in which direction that balance tips.

Macumber, Komanec lead Wampus Cats past Miners

WALLACE — Clark Fork guard Chelsea Macumber had a most unusual double-double, posting 14 points and a whopping 14 steals to lead the Wampus Cats to a 49-26 North Star League win over host Wallace on Tuesday night.

Ruth Christine Oliver, 94

Ruth Christine Oliver, 94, passed away in Kootenai, Idaho, on Saturday, Nov, 28, 2009.

'Going Rogue' selling well at Vanderford's

SANDPOINT — Vanderford’s Books & Office is rustling up every copy of Sarah Palin’s autobiography the store can get its hands on as her book-signing stop in Sandpoint nears.

Sponsors, community made event a success

From the Sandpoint Chapter of Wishing Star a big thank you goes to our sponsors and the community for their support

Teresa Deshon passes away

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint has lost another one of its colorful matrons.

Darrus R. Irons, 53

Darrus R. Irons, 53, passed away at the Boundary Community Hospital in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, on Nov. 23, 2009, from complication of a massive stroke.

Palin book tour coming to town

SANDPOINT — Former GOP vice presidential candidate and Alaska governor Sarah Palin is scheduled to make a stop in Sandpoint this month to promote her autobiography.

Crosswalk safety on city's agenda

SANDPOINT — The city’s Public Works Committee is taking up crosswalk safety when it meets tonight.

BGH Auxiliary's Parade of Trees now on display

The Bonner General Hospital auxiliary volunteers are a vital part of our community hospital and play an important role in the lives of our patients. While our physicians, nurses and healthcare professionals provide medical care and treatment, the auxiliary volunteers promote the health and welfare of our patients by providing those special touches that make the hospital stay a little more pleasant. Whether they’re delivering cards or gifts, bringing the morning newspaper to a patient’s room or simply asking how they can make a patient or family member more comfortable, these volunteers are truly amazing.

Badgers drop Cats

CLARK FORK — Chaunce Nesbitt posted eight points and seven rebounds, and Nate Nesbitt added nine points and four steals, but Clark Fork struggled offensively in the second half of a 75-30 loss to Bonners Ferry in nonleague boys basketball action Tuesday night in Clark Fork.

Legislators: 'Grim' session ahead

SANDPOINT — North Idaho legislators used terms like “staggering” and “grim” as they spoke about coming to grips with what could be a $151 million budget shortfall when they arrive in Boise in January.