Ellington

Dispute tied to politics rather than to racism

There’s a lot of talk nationally, in the Bee’s editorial and blog about the president and race. Some suggest that if you disagree with the president, than you are racist. It’s a great attack as many will back away because they don’t want to be accused of being racist. The president states he is half-black and half-white based upon his parents’ origin. We can say (not a scientific guess) the president is of equal mixed blood and of equal black and white origin.

Marsha Ogilvie has drive to do job right

If you want to get something done in Sandpoint just ask Marsha Ogilvie.  She has a tremendous record of organizing community needed events and facilities.  There are so many children who have benefited from Marsha’s drive to develop and maintain Kinderhaven.  And who can forget the wonderful welcome home event for the disabled vet that Marsha coordinated to show our support for this amazing soldier.

Trafficking cases dropped

SANDPOINT — The state is moving to dismiss marijuana trafficking charges against a Bonner County couple after a district judge suppressed evidence in the case, court records show.

Man jailed on molestation allegations

SANDPOINT — A 46-year-old Bonner County man was arrested Tuesday on allegations he repeatedly molested a 9-year-old girl.

Event to commemorate Thompson's trek

On Oct. 14, the public, students and history buffs are invited to a once in a lifetime opportunity to participate in a historical event to take place from noon to 1 p.m. at the David Thompson monument located just east of town on Highway 200 in Thompson Falls.

City's water bond returning to ballot

SANDPOINT — Six months after rejecting a bond to expand and renovate the city’s lake water treatment plant, Sandpoint voters will get another chance to make their opinions known when the bond measure returns to the ballot next month.

Top Dog registration on tap

SANDPOINT — Top Dog wrestling will kick off its fall season next week beginning Oct. 12, with practices held at Sandpoint High School. The program has produced a multitude of state and national caliber athletes at all levels.

Event focuses on kids getting to school safely

As the local Safe Routes to School coordinator, for Lake Pend Oreille School District, I was very pleased to see a front-page photo on Sept. 9 of the Bee which supported walking and biking to school.  I also commend the parents, for getting it together to walk and bike with their children to and from school. The Sandpoint area is unique in that way and it is why we love living here.

Habitat benefits from Harvill's birthday celebration

SANDPOINT — At a typical birthday party, the honoree receives the gifts.

Donald Earl Pick, 84

Donald Earl Pick, 84, passed away on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2009 in Sandpoint, Idaho.

Tracking blood cholesterol numbers key to health

High blood cholesterol affects more than 65 million Americans. It is a serious condition that increases your risk for heart disease. You can have high cholesterol and not know it. Lowering cholesterol levels that are too high lessens your risk for developing heart disease and reduces the chance of having a heart attack or dying of heart disease. Below are a few key aspects about cholesterol that you should know as part of your personal health and wellness plan:

Hooked on adventure

Smith tracks down forgotten treasures

SANDPOINT — Like many kids raised in the boundless wilderness of North Idaho, young Eric Smith spent his formative years fantasizing about exploring the world and living the life of an adventurer.

Bulldogs dominate on Senior Night

SANDPOINT — One of the most storied senior classes in Sandpoint volleyball history celebrated Senior Night in style Tuesday night at Les Rogers Court, playing relaxed and spirited in dispatching Lake City 25-12, 25-15 an 25-12.

Clifford Lawrence Eberley, 83

Clifford Lawrence Eberley, 83, of Sandpoint, Idaho, died Monday, Sept. 28, 2009, at his home after a courageous battle against melanoma and multiple myloma.

John Robert Pennington, 83

John Robert Pennington, 83, died Sept. 18, 2009, in Boca Raton, Fla.

Nostdahl leads Bulldogs past Vikings

SANDPOINT — Two teams that know each other well, but don’t particularly get along all that great, renewed old acquaintances Tuesday night in a very physical Inland Empire League battle under the lights of War Memorial Field.

Plane is stolen from BF airport

BONNERS FERRY — Pat Gardiner never expected that someone would steal his airplane — at least not from Bonners Ferry.

Don't fall behind in your winter home preparations

I, like everyone else in the area, have started preparing for winter.  Around my home that means painting, caulking and nailing in an attempt to seal my home up from wind and water intrusions.  Below are a few handy tips that you may find beneficial:

Macumber rips 11 aces to lead Wampus Cats in sweep of Charter

CLARK FORK — Senior Chelsea Macumber ripped a career-high 11 aces, and Mariah Miller added seven more as the Wampus Cats served their way to a 25-21, 25-14, 25-23 sweep over Coeur d’Alene Charter Tuesday night in Clark Fork.

Naccarato flies high as youngest member of the Jets' Flight Crew

Chris Naccarato is the self-proclaimed biggest Jets fan in Idaho.

PHD readies for H1N1 flu

SANDPOINT — The Panhandle Health District is firming up plans to distribute and administer swine flu vaccine in Idaho’s five northern counties this fall.

Accounts of crash vary

SANDPOINT — A Clark Fork woman is facing a reckless driving charge following a two-vehicle crash on Highway 200 on Sunday.

Why won't park replace bench?

I’ve seen this one too many times — state employees believing their job positions grant them the right to operate any way they see fit regardless of what the general public wants. Take for example a story of a public bench. Yes, something as simple and non threatening as a bench. Recently, I approached Randall Butt, Farragut Park manager, concerning the subject of a bench at  the Eagle boat launch. There had been a bench there for as long as I can remember but it was removed about a year ago.  In April, I first e-mailed Mr. Butt and asked him if he would be replacing the old bench. He said no and cited congestion issues.  I have a problem with his argument against replacing the old bench to its original site or at least close by.

Ogilvie is the best choice for Sandpoint

Dedication and commitment, those are great words to describe Marsha Olgivie.  She created Kinderhaven from a single bud that has bloomed into entire garden of fresh, colorful, and delightfully successful women and children.  Voting for Marsha is the best thing we can do for Sandpoint.

We all deserve to voice our opinions

To Emily Kuzmich.  First of all, forgiveness is something we do for ourselves, not other people.  Yes, I have forgiven Vick for his actions, but I don’t excuse his actions anymore than I would excuse a murderer or a drunk driver for their actions.  Vick committed a crime, he served his time and now he’s back to making millions of dollars a year playing football.

Hertel to compete in 'Super Bowl' of Ironmans

SANDPOINT — Ironman triathlons are brutal by nature, physically and mentally demanding affairs where athletes push themselves to finish a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike and 26.2 mile run as fast as they can.

Where has all of our civility gone?

Is civility dead?

Facts surrounding pot bust should be printed

The big “pot” bust that your paper wrote about with the reference to 420.  Kim and Seth. All charges were dropped. Are you going to write about that? It would be nice if you would let folks know how a young couple was hurt by the Bonner County Sheriff and what the Daily Bee wrote.

Ogilvie is a person of action, integrity

Marsha Ogilvie is running for City Council. How fortunate for Sandpoint.  She is a doer, not a talker. She is a listener, not a talker. She is a person of action, not indecision.

Man says he posted anti-Obama posters

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man has come forward to claim responsibility for posting images depicting President Barack Obama in Nazi regalia on the doors of three local schools.

Chamber Ambassadors welcome Carden Academy

Teaching children to think is the goal at Carden Academy-Sandpoint, a private Kindergarten through Fifth grade school which recently celebrated 10 years of providing academic excellence.  Director Cynthia Nielsen announced at the anniversary that they are not celebrating buildings, but celebrating the 105 students who have passed through Carden Academy.

E. coli bacteria found in outlying PR water

PRIEST RIVER — Coliform bacteria has been found in the Industrial Park area, west of the city.

Letter writer was incorrect

On Sunday, Sept. 13, your publication printed a letter to the editor in which the writer asserted that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is planning to construct a boat dock, parking lot and other facilities at Denton Slough.

SilverWing poses funding dilemma

SANDPOINT — Last year, plans for an affluent fly-in residential development on city owned property adjacent to the Sandpoint Airport prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to cut off all funding for the county operated facility, costing at least $150,000 a year in entitlement funds and potentially millions more in annual grant money.

Sentencing set in molestation case

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint man being held on a forcible rape charge is scheduled to be sentenced this fall in a separate case alleging he molested another teenager several years ago.

Geese an icon of small-town charm

The city of Sandpoint is now engaged in removal of the domestic geese from City Beach. I am saddened! Domestic geese have been in the Windbag Marina and Sandpoint Marina since at least the 1930s, according to my late friend, Capt. Fred Kennedy.

Traffic shift expected to ease construction impacts

SANDPOINT — Motorists on U.S. Highway 95 should get their first taste of the Sand Creek Byway alignment this week.

Bypass segment nears debut with motorists

Detour expected to reduce traffic impacts on bridge

SANDPOINT — Motorists on U.S. Highway 95 should get their first taste of the Sand Creek Byway alignment this week.

Giving in to global warming

Call me crazy but I’m starting to believe all those thousands of scientists who for years have been warning us about the dangers of man-made global warming.

Congress should be protecting us

I would like to see our country go back to being one of freedom. Congressmen, not corporations should be writing the bills, they should deal with one subject at a time and anyone voting should be required to read every page.

SilverWing poses airport funds dilemma

FAA: County could purchase site, stop new homes

SANDPOINT — Last year, plans for an affluent fly-in residential development on city owned property adjacent to the Sandpoint Airport prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to cut off all funding for the county operated facility, costing at least $150,000 a year in entitlement funds and potentially millions more in annual grant money.

Sentencing set in lewd conduct case

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint man being held on a forcible rape charge is scheduled to be sentenced this fall in a separate case alleging he molested another teenager several years ago.

Downtown was fine before DSBA, BID

In reference to Kathleen Hyde’s article “Prosperous downtowns don’t just happen,” I have owned a Sandpoint business since 1971 and it could be that I’ve been around the area longer than Kathleen because I remember things a bit differently.

Flume proved irresistible temptation

(Today, Bernice shares in her own words, some of her earliest memories of Brenn’s Spur, Idaho, and some of the people who lived there. Like life, some of her memories are happy and some are sad and frightening. Bernice’s maternal grandfather, Robert Sparks, homesteaded in the Fernwood - Clarkia area and Anthony Robert and Mabel Louise Brill, Bernice’s parents, followed him to Idaho. They bought an existing three-room log house that nestled against the hill that one climbed to get to her grandfather’s homestead.)

Mistakes prove costly in Spartans' loss

PRIEST RIVER — The Tigers sent a message early, scoring three times on 154 first quarter rushing yards in a 37-7 win over Priest River Friday night.  Timberlake tallied 341 total yards of offense with 287 yards on the ground.  Senior runningback John Morris scored two touchdowns on the ground and another through the air on a Derek Puckett pass.

2009 Business Fair is bigger, better

SANDPOINT — This year’s Business Fair promises to be bigger and better.

Bulldogs drop 23-20 thriller to Post Falls

POST FALLS — Another thriller between 4A Sandpoint and a 5A squad, another last-minute victory for the bigger school.

Familiar faces fill Ponderay council races

PONDERAY — When residents head to the polls Nov. 3 to fill the city’s two open council seats, the names of all four candidates will likely seem familiar.

Third suspect in alleged kidnapping arrested

PONDERAY — A third suspect was arrested Friday in connection with the seizure and beating of a Sandpoint man, an assault allegedly committed in the wake of a violent confrontation at Grouse Creek.

Cats show life in loss to Kootenai

CLARK FORK — Clark Fork opened the game with its best drive of the season, but Kootenai had a potent answer in the form of Jake Hall and Hayden Kraack, who combined for six first half touchdowns to lead the Warriors to a 66-22 win over the Wampus Cats Friday night in Clark Fork.

Burglary suspect waives hearing

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man waived his right Thursday to a preliminary hearing on allegations he broke into the Samuels Conoco station to steal cigarettes, lottery tickets and other items.

Festival's rainy day fund dries up

SANDPOINT — The Festival at Sandpoint’s rainy day fund evaporated as the annual concert series ate up the remainder of a $300,000 cushion this season.

Macumber leads balanced win over Kootenai

CLARK FORK — Chelsea Macumber, whom her coach calls the best outside hitter in the North Star League, hammered home 10 kills to help lead Clark Fork to a convincing 25-17, 25-19, 25-14 win over Kootenai in league volleyball action at Clark Fork High School.

Trade-N-Post opens in Ponderay

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce, family, and friends gathered to celebrate the opening of the new Trade-N-Post Pawn & Coin.

Bulldogs blank Post Falls 3-0

POST FALLS — Meghan Pagano, Elle Engel and Alicia Mertz each scored a goal — all in the second half — to lead Sandpoint to a 3-0 win over Post Falls, completing the season sweep Thursday afternoon at Post Falls High School.

Trio score in Sandpoint win

SANDPOINT — When the reigning 4A state champs are clicking, as they were on Thursday afternoon at Great Northern Park, they’re a downright tough team to contend with.

Sandpoint buys land for wastewater treatment site

SANDPOINT — Plans for a regionalized sewer plant are gaining momentum, and while few expect to see the project come to fruition any time soon, Sandpoint is already positioning itself to be the site’s home base.

Deep winter drawdown anticipated

SANDPOINT — Another deep winter drawdown appears to be in Lake Pend Oreille’s future.

There should be a caucus for everyone

Jimmy Carter has been spouting off lately about how racist everyone who opposes Obama is. There’s a Congressional Black Caucus and a Congressional Hispanic Caucus (which is lobbying for illegal aliens to be covered by the health care reform).  When we can have a Congressional White Caucus we will truly not be a racist country.

Piling driver keeping busy near Clark Fork

I thought the public would like to know a little piece of information about our new bridge going in over Lightning Creek at Clark Fork.

Run caused excess of exhaust fumes

Sunday while driving into Sandpoint from Sagle, I was treated to an event I assume was created to promote good health, the Scenic Half run. This event closed off one lane on First, thereby creating a bottleneck for northbound traffic. Because of this, traffic backed up well onto the Long Bridge, causing an excess of gasoline to be burned and creating additional exhaust fumes for those runners having to run by these idling vehicles.

Strikers teams continue to impress early in season

n North Idaho Avalanche U13 girls

Hunt on for missing Sagle girl

SANDPOINT — The Bonner County Sheriff’s Office is enlisting the public’s help in locating a 12-year-old Sagle girl who has not been seen since Tuesday.

Higher lake level would benefit all

Oh well, another boating season is … water under the boat. The good news is all the money I can’t spend now. The bad news is all the money I can’t spend now. Our boating season is rather short compared to many locations and depending on the length of your dock, the marina you’re moored in, or if you’re trailering, it can be somewhat variable but mostly too short considering the cost of the boat.

Chamber celebrates new Sandpoint Center for the Arts

The Sandpoint Center for the Arts, once known as the red building on the corner of Sixth and Oak, is a hub for arts education and local arts and is home to the Arts Alliance and Red Tail Gallery.

Hearing reset in Priest Lake murder case

SANDPOINT — An evidentiary hearing to determine if a Bonner County Sheriff’s detective misled a judge in seeking an arrest warrant in a Priest Lake murder investigation has been reset for Nov. 13.

Scenic Half ran away with participants' raves, race's success

Nothing like an Indian Summer (Can I still write that? Is Indian Summer PC?) to put people in a good mood.

Woman arrested on drug charge

BONNERS FERRY — A Coeur d’Alene woman was arrested for selling prescription pills to an undercover police officer at Kootenai River Inn.

BGH answers common flu questions

Flu season is once again upon us, complicated this year by the introduction of the H1N1 (“swine”) flu, which appeared in the United States in April 2009.  Bonner General Hospital is working very closely with Panhandle Health District and a region-wide emergency preparedness network to ensure we are ready to deal with this influenza.  Below are the CDC’s answers to the most commonly asked questions about this flu and tips on what to do if you get sick. 

Quest lays off 25 employees

SANDPOINT — In an effort to “rightsize” the company, Quest Aircraft recently laid off 25 employees at its Sandpoint headquarters, according to CEO Paul Schaller.

Flush away problems with toilet maintenance

Last week we were working on a home and we had to remove the toilet. While in a conversation with the home owner she said they have been having problems with their toilet. She said the bowl would fill very slowly and spontaneously refill the tank frequently. I told her I was not a plumber however I would look at the toilet while we had it out. I asked her if they were on a well system. She said they were.

Pagano sisters lead Bulldogs past Bears

SANDPOINT — It was the Pagano sisters three, the Moscow Bears zero, as Nichole Pagano scored twice and assisted on her younger sister Meghan’s goal, helping the Bulldogs blank the Bears Tuesday afternoon at Great Northern Park.

Ponderay abandons sales tax idea

PONDERAY — Despite its financial needs, the Ponderay City Council recently voted to abandon a controversial plan to increase the city’s sales tax.

Edith Marie Jennestad, 94

Edith Marie Jennestad passed away on Sept. 4, 2009, just two weeks shy of her 95th birthday in Kirkland, Wash. 

Macumber leads Cats past Kootenai

CLARK FORK — Chelsea Macumber had 12 kills, Shaina Gustafson added 10, Celeste Komanec had 23 assists and Moranda Becker tallied six aces to lead the Wampus Cats (6-3, 3-1 NSL) to a 25-20, 25-7 and 25-16 win over Kootenai Tuesday night at Clark Fork High School.

Lake trout netting program boosts kokanee survival

SANDPOINT — Angler harvest of rainbow trout remains a high priority for the Idaho Department of Fish & Game as fishery recovery efforts continue on Lake Pend Oreille.

Millard serves Bulldogs past Trojans

SANDPOINT — Alissa Millard had a huge service run in the pivotal fourth game, to help Sandpoint stave off an upset and take down Post Falls 25-23, 27-29, 27-29, 25-23, and 15-9 in a dramatic win Tuesday night at Les Rogers Court.

Tanker crash closes U.S. 95

SANDPOINT — Traffic on U.S. 95 was closed for nine hours and two homes were evacuated after a gasoline tanker overturned around milepost 483 near Colburn early Sunday morning.

Mann, Dunn and Pearlstein nab wins

SANDPOINT — Junior Chris Mann won the 200 and 400 freestyle to lead the Sandpoint boys to the team title over Coeur d’Alene, Lake City and Post Falls Saturday in a swim meet at the Sandpoint West Athletic Club.

Where is the change we were promised?

The government has devalued our currency by printing money. This will make everyone holding dollars poorer, including our country.

Margaret Elizabeth Hadjisky Muzik

Margaret Elizabeth Hadjisky Muzik was the first daughter of Elizabeth Appleby of England and Joseph Hadjisky of Bulgaria, and the first and only wife of Thomas Muzik. 

Chamber welcomes Catie's Uniform Shoppe

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce welcomed new business Catie’s Uniform Shoppe owned by Cathy Murray.

Bird honored for his work

SANDPOINT — Famed North Idaho inventor and aviation expert Dr. Forrest Bird is once again being recognized for his vast body of work, and for the second time in a year he will travel to the nation’s capital for a White House awards ceremony.

Sandpoint council adopts alarm fees

SANDPOINT — After spending what was described as an inordinate amount of time and man power responding to false alarms, the city last week implemented a new fee structure meant to deter home and business owners from calling in multiple false alarms.

Bob Allen Anderson

Bob Allen Anderson, of Sandpoint, passed away at Kootenai Medical Center in Coeur d’Alene on Sept. 14, 2009.

Right uses false data to bolster its claims

Last Saturday Glenn Beck, Fox News and FreedomWorks organized a protest against the Obama Administration, the 9/12 March on Washington. For an event that was billed to bring the country back to the national sense of unity we felt on 9/12/01 it was a dismal failure. Some people carried the most odious signs I’ve seen since Obama walked on to the national stage. Clearly, some hold great resentment at a black man being in the White House.

Informed voters are crucial to the future

Having a country of informed voters is crucial to our future. Do not be naive as to support  someone for the sake of their principles before election. We have been sorely disappointed by our politicians’ change of convictions after election day. They will say anything to get your vote. We need to scrutinize their statements of being an everyday, patriotic American. Research their track record, examining their organizations of affiliation, their background, and leanings on the issues.

Cats hang tough at BF tourney

BONNERS FERRY — Clark Fork won once and lost twice during pool play on Saturday at the Bonners Ferry volleyball tournament.

Is a civilian national defense force next?

I have previously referenced President Barack Obama’s proposed “civilian national defense force.” I just watched a video of Obama speaking about this concept, and read several articles about this proposal.

Road & Bridge has always been friendly, professional

While I have had limited experience with Bonner Road and Bridge — only the guys keeping our road maintained and plowed during the last two winters — I have found them to be friendly, polite and helpful, and doing a good job. I’m happy to have them here.

Actions, not politics, dictate pulling funding

I hope everyone reading this is aware of the latest ACORN corruption that occurred in their Baltimore office which entailed offering advice on setting up a prostitution ring involving underage girls from El Salvador. This particular situation has been publicized on only a few major outlets, such as the Wall Street Journal and FOX news channel — you won’t see this information on most of our mainstream media outlets.

Guitar builders create dream collection

SANDPOINT — Beginning in the 1950s, a sickness swept across America until, by the end of the 20th Century, it had become a global epidemic. The malady continues to affect both men and women, but studies have shown that males are far more prone to come down with the illness.

How sad to live in a negative community

I have been reading the editorials in this lovely newspaper. I have been sickened by the beliefs that a person that has been convicted and paid his dues is still being bashed. I have pit bulls and I’m able to forgive Mr. Vick.

Fallout from Grouse Creek battery case continues

SANDPOINT — A second suspect in an alleged attack linked to a perplexing assault at Grouse Creek was arrested Wednesday following a hearing on another charge.

Ordinance is a sign of future tyrannies

I think it’s wonderful that the city of Sandpoint has finally found a way to conduct warrantless searches of its citizens’ homes and property under the guise of inspecting backflow devices.

R&E center support is much appreciated

Thank you to all those who attended the listening session on Sept. 15 regarding the possible closure of the University of Idaho Sandpoint Research & Extension center. Likewise, I want to thank all those who sent letters and e-mails or called the college to advocate and make suggestions, and those who contributed to the full page ad supporting the station.

Sandpoint send ban on skateboards to the curb

SANDPOINT — Local skateboarders who have longed to legally cruise the streets of downtown Sandpoint are celebrating after the City Council voted to legalize all non-motorized transportation in the downtown core, ending a 20-year prohibition.

Dover Bridge work forces traffic delays

DOVER — Motorists on U.S. Highway 2 can expect delays of up to 30 minutes on weekday afternoons as excavation begins for the new Dover Bridge.

Bulldogs lose first game of season to opportunistic Vikings

SANDPOINT — By both head coaches account, two very good football teams waged battle Friday night under the lights of Barlow Stadium, with Coeur d’Alene senior quarterback Ryan Dunton diving over the pile with 1:30 left in the game for the decisive touchdown to lead the Vikings to a 17-10 win over the Bulldogs.

Peacock honored as top chamber volunteer

Kristan Peacock from the University of Idaho Extension Office received the honor of volunteer of the month at the Chamber’s August luncheon.

Marathon runner racing 'For Paul'

SANDPOINT — Last November, Chris Jones decided to honor his longtime friend Paul Donaghue, who had recently passed away after a battle with lymphoma, by writing “For Paul” on his shirt while running in the New York City Marathon.

Police chase ends in crash, charges

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man was jailed Tuesday after crashing his Harley-Davidson motorcycle in Sagle in a failed attempt to outrun a sheriff’s deputy.

Jail ordered in cancer charity thefts

SANDPOINT — A Coeur d’Alene woman who pleaded guilty to defrauding a Sandpoint nonprofit which aids cancer patients was ordered Wednesday to serve six months in jail.

Eleanor Emma 'Ellie' Nelson

Eleanor Emma “Ellie” Nelson, passed away on Sept. 17, 2009, surrounded by love.

Sandpoint, CdA clashing in battle of undefeated teams

SANDPOINT — Riding a wave of confidence after three solid wins to start the season, Sandpoint will try and stay atop said wave in its stiffest test of the season tonight when undefeated Coeur d’Alene comes to town, the first of three consecutive tough games against 5A schools for the Bulldogs.

City brushes aside fluoride challenge

SANDPOINT — Much to the chagrin of the 20-plus anti-fluoride advocates in attendance, the City Council decided Wednesday night to continue its controversial water fluoridation program.

Becker, Komanec lead Cats in sweep

CLARK FORK — Moranda Becker had a season-high eight service aces, and Chelsea Macumber had a match-high 14 kills as the Wampus Cats swept the visiting Miners 25-19, 25-20, 25-11 Thursday night in North Star League play in Clark Fork.

Quest Aircraft receives production certificate for Kodiak

SANDPOINT —  Quest Aircraft Company has received full unrestricted production certification for the Kodiak.

Lewd conduct trial postponed

SANDPOINT — An alibi defense appears to be forming in the case of a Washington state man who was indicted by a grand jury for molesting a Bonner County girl in 2005.

Lewis and Clark defeats SHS

SPOKANE — It was another tough outing for the Sandpoint girls soccer team in the state of Washington, as the Bulldogs fell 4-0 to Lewis and Clark Thursday afternoon in Spokane.

Wahlin serves Bulldogs past Hawks

SANDPOINT — The match high 12 kills have come to be expected from Sandpoint senior outside hitter Piper Wahlin, but it was her dominating jump serves that propelled the Bulldogs to a 25-16, 25-14, 25-13 sweep over Lakeland Thursday night at Les Rogers Court.

Judge tosses drug evidence

SANDPOINT — A marijuana trafficking case pending against a Bonner County couple has been stripped of evidence and incriminating statements made by the accused growers.

Norma Jean (Flanagan) Jordan, 87

Norma Jean (Flanagan) Jordan, 87, residing in Kootenai, Idaho passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2009.  It was a beautiful day as she made her journey home.

Justin Anton Peine, 41

Justin Anton Peine, 41, of Sagle, Idaho, died Saturday, Sept. 12, 2009, from injuries received in an accident at his home.

Eugene 'Gene' Ryder Savage, 76

Eugene “Gene” Ryder Savage, 76, of Sandpoint, Idaho, passed away at Valley Vista Care Center in Sandpoint on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2009.

Country headed down the road to socialism

In response to Thomas Keenan’s letter (Aug. 27), you may want to go on another “bender” if the past eight years were unbearable, the next eight years ought to put you in a complete stupor as we are led like sheep down the road of socialism.

Mangus William Newman, 90

Mangus William Newman, 90, passed away on Wednesday, September 9, 2009 in Sandpoint, Idaho. 

Protect waterways from harmful chemicals

The decision to put herbicides into our waterways is one to consider carefully. Herbicides applied last month into Lake Pend Oreille waterways are linked to health problems such as endocrine, neurological and reproductive disorders and cancer.

Investment in hope will pay off for all

We would like to take this opportunity to thank our community for its support and generosity.

Larry L. Swanson

Larry L. Swanson, resident of Sagle, Idaho, passed away Sept. 12, 2009, at Kootenai Medical Center in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Depot's future still uncertain

SANDPOINT — The fate of Sandpoint’s deteriorating train depot was topic number one at a Wednesday forum hosted by Amtrak and attended by an assortment of local officials.

No charges in wake of 'sexting' scandal

Former detective was accused of exchanging nude photos via phone

SANDPOINT — Criminal charges are not being sought against a former Sandpoint Police detective accused of exchanging sexually explicit images with a woman he met during a drug investigation several years ago.

Robert P. Chenault, 84

Robert P. Chenault, 84, of Sandpoint, Idaho, died Friday, Sept. 11, 2009, at Bonner General Hospital.

Stealing chairs was wrong and shameful

A few of us had a yard sale, We aren’t wealthy people. We sold things we didn’t need any more and made extra money to help with some bills and things. We closed it down and covered things up figuring we would get to it the next day.

Striker teams shine at Pend Oreille Cup

U10 Striker boys claim title

Ben Symmes, 31

Benjamin Robert Symmes of Bozeman, Mont., was lost at sea on July 31, 2009, near Togiak, Alaska. He was 31.

SHS grad could avoid criminal charges

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint High School graduate held responsible for reportedly acting on an ill-conceived dare during his commencement ceremony could escape a criminal charge for his conduct.

Jack William Yaryan, 87

Jack William Yaryan, 87, of East Hope, Idaho, died Tuesday, Sept, 15, 2009, at his home.  He was born Feb. 10, 1922 in Spokane, Wash., the son of Floyd and Perola Verral Yaryan. 

Crossingham leads Sandpoint over Lake City

SANDPOINT — Seniors Zac Linscott and Adam Crossingham each scored goals, and Erik Wehse posted his second shutout of the season to lead Sandpoint to a 2-0 win over Lake City Tuesday night at War Memorial Field.

Fun, tips on hand at health fair

Don’t forget the second Community Health & Wellness Fair this Saturday, Sept. 19, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Bonner County Fairgrounds.

Skateboards may get right to use streets

SANDPOINT — If the Public Works Committee gets its way, the days of bicyclists having a monopoly on legal, non-motorized transportation in downtown Sandpoint will soon be over.

Clark Fork falls in five sets to Lakeside

PLUMMER — Celeste Komanec had 19 assists and three aces, but it wasn’t enough, as the Wampus Cats suffered their first loss of the season Tuesday night in Plummer, falling 25-12, 16-25, 24-26, 25-16 and 15-6 to the Knights.

Kiselica goal earns Sandpoint a tie with Lake City.

COEUR d’ALENE — Elli Kiselica scored off a free kick in extra time as the visiting Bulldogs tied the Timberwolves 1-1 in nonleague play at the Irma Anderl Soccer Complex.

Make a list, check it twice before emergencies strike

In this week’s article I want to take just a few minutes and briefly discuss disaster clean up, primarily fire and floods.  Winter is just around the corner and with winter comes frozen broken pipes and unfortunately fires.

Plea entered in molestation case

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man pleaded guilty Thursday to molesting a teenage girl at a graduation party this spring.

Perfection Tire named chamber's business of the month

Perfection Tire of Ponderay was bestowed the honor of business of the month by the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce at its August luncheon. In a competitive business environment, it is small businesses with outstanding customer service and excellent products and services that rise to the top – and Perfection Tire is an example of both.

Wahlin serves Bulldogs past Timberwolves

COEUR d’ALENE — After suffering its first loss of the season to a tall and talented Pullman team last weekend, Sandpoint bounced back nicely with a convincing 25-11, 25-16, 25-17 sweep of Lake City Tuesday night.

Government's rules mandate erosion effort

That green stuff you see being applied freely to soil disturbed by grading activity is deemed necessary by the contractor as an erosion prevention measure. A coating of it helps prevent loose soil from washing away in a heavy rain.

Depot can be sanctuary for city's merchants

I know what we could do with the old train depot. We can fix it up as kind of a sanctuary where downtown Sandpoint merchants could go and wave goodbye to their prospective customers, who will soon be bypassing Sandpoint on the Sandpoint bypass if it is ever completed.

Working together, we can minimize H1N1 threat

To help our area prepare for the return of H1N1 pandemic flu, Panhandle Health District recently invited community leaders from the five northern counties to a planning meeting. More than 70 representatives of schools, child cares, governments, healthcare providers, emergency responders and more gathered for PHD’s H1N1 Flu Summit in Hayden to determine how they could help keep northern Idaho as healthy as possible.

Share extra harvest with less fortunate

Harvest time is upon us, and once again, I’m driving around the area seeing a lot of wasted food that someone could eat. Is your back yard home to a fruit tree that is loaded with apples, pears, or plums? How about your garden? Did you plant too much and can’t eat it all? Please take a little time to harvest that food and take it to the nearest food bank. If you belong to a church or volunteer organization, maybe you could get a group of people together to help neighbors or friends who are unable to pick the produce in their yards.

Pence returns as Coldwater Creek CEO

SANDPOINT — After leading the company for two tumultuous years, Coldwater Creek announced early Monday that Dan Griesemer was resigning his post as chief executive officer, with company co-founder Dennis Pence taking over the position.

Program is something for area to be proud of

Sandpoint has a curbside recycling program to be proud of, at no cost to residents, and as Kristi Harrison mentioned in her article, it does include glass recycling. Details on Sandpoint curbside recycling are on Waste Management’s Web site at

Thermal imaging brings quick end to search

SAGLE — A thermal imaging device is being credited with the swift rescue of an inexperienced sailor who lost his way on Lake Pend Oreille last week.

Damage to car was senseless, appalling

My daughter, Rachel, who has no enemies in the world, parks her car at the bus stop at the corner of Upper Pack River Road and A Street. Between 7:05 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Tuesday, the first day of school, some local Bonner County scum decide to take a key or similar object and scrape up the whole side. I truly hope they get their just reward for such behavior.

2009 Pend Oreille Cup draws rave reviews

SANDPOINT — If things seemed a little busier than normal around town this weekend, it’s because they were, as scores of youth soccer players from around the region converged in Sandpoint for the 2009 Pend Oreille Cup soccer tournament.

Gene Walker

Gene Walker, beloved father, brother and husband, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2009 at Deaconess Medical Center in Spokane, Wash.

Term limits needed to stop career politicians

It’s not a new topic — we’ve been talking about it since 1776. Back then it involved discussion between Thomas Jefferson, Ben Franklin and George Washington. All three favored some sort of term limits for Congress.

Boat dock would hurt slough's wildlife

Beth Reinhart

Council off the mark on backflow program

On Aug. 19, four members of the City Council, namely Stephen Snedden, Carrie Logan, John O’Hara and John Reuter, voted to approve a very invasive and punitive ordinance.

Kidnap suspect waives hearing

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County teen implicated in a retaliatory attack on a 20-year-old man apparently connected to a mysterious assault at Grouse Creek waived her right to a preliminary hearing on Wednesday.

Inmate's consecutive sentence stands

SANDPOINT — A former Bonner County man doing time for a stabbing in Clark Fork has lost his appeal of a sentence for assaulting a fellow inmate at the Idaho State Correctional Institution in 2007.

Centenarians deliver wit, wisdom

SANDPOINT — Consider the changes that have taken place over the past century.  Now imagine having lived through that defining period in the world’s history. 

City needs to make intersection safer

Busy blind corners are fun; you never know what you are going to hit.

Store upset about pilfered petunias

On the weekend of Sept. 4, Labor Day weekend, someone stole five beautiful large pots of petunia that we here at Performance Automotove loved to look at and enjoyed growing from seed. We give a lot to our community in so many ways. We would have been more than happy to have given them to you who took them. We hope you enjoy them as much as we did.

Bridge work blocks path

DOVER — The last 500 feet of the Sandpoint-to-Dover bike and pedestrian path will be closed during construction of the new Dover Bridge, a two-year project.

Council expected to weigh in on fluoridation

SANDPOINT — The Fourth of July is well behind us, but Sandpoint is saving its most explosive fireworks for Wednesday night, when the City Council finally gets its chance to weigh in on the controversial water fluoridation ordinance.

Charvoz leads Bulldogs in rout of Vikings

SANDPOINT — The final score may have been Sandpoint 36, Middleton 14, but that hardly did justice to the one-sided nature of the Bulldogs’ nonleague win Friday night at Barlow Stadium.

Daarstad keeping busy during retirement

I have been doing some reading of late and I notice a lot of those writing people start with a thing they call a “preface.” I think they use this preface thing to tell you about something they are going to tell you later, without doing it all at once, abrupt like. So, I can’t come right out and say I am disappointed because I have failed in realizing a life-long dream — that would be too abrupt. So sit back, let me preface you, and ease up to what I will finally get around to saying.

Pedicabs arrive in community

SANDPOINT — Local taxicab drivers encountered a bit of unexpected competition this summer with the arrival of two new businesses offering pedal-powered transportation for hire.

Gibson earns CWS designation

Thomas L. Gibson, Vice President and Senior Financial Consultant for D.A. Davidson & Co. is among the first 1,000 professionals nationwide to receive the distinguished designation as a certified wealth strategist from Cannon Financial Institute. The designation comes after two years of study regarding issues surrounding comprehensive client needs.

Priest River banks Newport

PRIEST RIVER — Senior runningback Tanner Rabidue rushed for 102 yards on just three carries for the Spartans who won 34-0 Friday night.  Rabidue would also catch 3 passes for 80 yards and have a 65-yard touchdown run called back on a holding penalty.

Drawdown is coming

SANDPOINT — The level of Lake Pend Oreille is slated to commence its annual winter descent next week, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Buldogs looking to make it three straight

SANDPOINT — The Bulldogs host the first of two consecutive home football games against the Vikings tonight — Coeur d’Alene comes to town next week — when a dangerous Middleton team ventures north looking to hand Sandpoint its first loss of the season.

Group debating historic depot's future

Meeting set to discuss options

SANDPOINT — With reports of vandalism and hints that it will soon be abandoned, the future of Sandpoint’s train depot is uncertain at best. However, that hasn’t stopped a group of depot advocates from fighting to save the 93-year-old structure.

Man jailed for kicking officer

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man was arrested late Wednesday for allegedly kicking a Sandpoint Police officer while being escorted into Bonner General Hospital.

University defeats Sandpoint, 4-2

SPOKANE — Sandpoint dug a 3-0 deficit in the first half, before rallying to within one in the second half, but University had too much firepower as the Bulldogs fell 4-2 in nonleague girls soccer Thursday afternoon at University High School.

Macumber leads Clark Fork past Noxon

CLARK FORK — Chelsea Macumber had 13 kills and four service aces to help lead the Wampus Cats to a 24-26, 25-14, 25-14, 25-17 win over Noxon Thursday in a home opener at Clark Fork High School.

Gerard 'Rick' Fitchett, 53

Gerard “Rick” Fitchett, 53, passed away in Missoula, Mont., on Tuesday, Sept. 08, 2009.

Youth bowling league sign-up on Saturday

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint youth bowling leagues are starting up again soon for Bantams (4 to 11 years-old) and Junior/Seniors (11 to high school).

Leaving deer to suffer was callous, reckless

To the reckless, careless woman, who on the evening of Aug. 27, hit a deer on Spades Road. You not only injured a beautiful creature, you callously drove off, leaving her to suffer and die in the road. I saw what you did. Shame on you.

Rape trial is ordered

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint man accused of raping a 16-year-old Bonner County girl was ordered to stand trial on Wednesday.

Youth flag football sign up deadline on Friday

SANDPOINT — The Parks and Rec youth flag football league kicks off soon, with the deadline to register on Friday, by 5 p.m.

Wolf hunt ruling brings praise, criticism

While some local and state officials praised a federal judge's decision on Wednesday to allow wolf hunts to continue, environmentalists are still circling with litigation in their quest to restore protection.

Reform bill is very misleading to all

Mr. Paul Graves’ column in the Aug. 20 Bee is very misleading to seniors and everyone else. He complained about the so-called scare tactics used at town hall meetings. I suggest that he and everyone else read the entire bill and not just selected sections. (It can be obtained from the House government Web site.) It is a very serious concern, especially to seniors.

VAST loses a position, but not its focus

In 2008, when VAST was faced with shutting its doors for good, Law Enforcement and victims rallied together and put their support in writing. That support led the county commissioners to adopt VAST under its budget making it a permanent county office. At that time, only two positions could be adopted with the third pulled together from surplus and reserves.

Elizabeth 'Betty' May, 80

Elizabeth “Betty” May, 80, passed away on Aug. 29, 2009, at the Hospice of Spokane, Wash. Private services were held.

What could possibly go wrong with plan?

Let me get this straight.

Pair recommends book to president

Dear President Obama,

Jury rules in daycare case

SANDPOINT — A Bonner vCounty jury has awarded $1 in damages to the owners of a failed daycare business in Kootenai who claimed they were sold a bill of goods.

Get a pulse on your health at annual fair

Bonner General Hospital is committed to caring for the health needs of our community.  As part of that commitment, we are proud to join the Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce and many other local sponsors in hosting the second straight Community Health & Wellness Fair on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Bonner County Fairgrounds.

Obaitek, Clark lead Bulldogs past Trojans

SANDPOINT — Junior McKinzi Obaitek blasted in the game-winning goal off a nice assist from Meghan Pagano in the 58th minute to lead Sandpoint to a hard-fought 1-0 win over Post Falls Tuesday evening at War Memorial Field.

Paige Wilson joins Taylor-Parker Motor Co.

Paige Wilson has recently joined Taylor-Parker Motor Company in downtown Sandpoint as part of the firm’s sales team.

Macumber leads Wampus Cats in rout

HARRISON FLATS — Chelsea Macumber had 13 kills and four aces as Clark Fork defeated Kootenai 25-12, 25-9, 25-13 in North Star League play.

Donald Dean Burns, 77

Donald Dean Burns, 77, passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side on Sunday, September 6, 2009 in Sandpoint, Idaho.  Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 am, Saturday, September 12, 2009 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints Sandpoint Stake Center, 602 Schweitzer Cut off road, with Bishop Arnie Wolff conducting.  Visitation will be held in the Relief Society Room one hour prior to service time.

Dog survives bear's attack

SAGLE — Given our close proximity to the great outdoors, it’s no surprise that domesticated pets occasionally mix it up with wild animals, but it’s truly rare for a dog to tangle with a black bear and live to bark again.

Anderson scores two goals in win over Trojans

POST FALLS — Daniel Anderson scored an unassisted goal in the 23rd minute and added a penalty kick in the 27th to lead Sandpoint past Post Falls 2-1 in nonleague play Tuesday at Post Falls High School.

Bulldogs rout Vikings in home opener

SANDPOINT — Piper Wahlin, Koko James and Christina Johnson — powerful hitters the lot of them — each had eight kills to lead Sandpoint to a 25-16, 25-10, 25-12 dispatching of Coeur d’Alene in home opening volleyball action Tuesday night at Les Rogers Court.

Deardorff draws lengthy prison sentence

SANDPOINT — A Washington state man who pleaded guilty to vehicular manslaughter and aggravated drunken driving was sentenced to 15 years in prison on Tuesday.

Dynasty Taekwondo opens Sandpoint studio

SANDPOINT — Fans of the martial arts now have another studio to hone their craft with the recent opening of Sandpoint’s Dynasty Taekwondo.

Golden Rule Roofing climbs to 3rd at Elks

SANDPOINT — Golden Rule Roofing posted the highest team score to move up to third at the Elks Thursday Night Men’s Golf League, but the Elks Golf Course team looks to be in the driver’s seat for the overall championship with just one week left to play.

Weevil project delayed a year

SANDPOINT — Plans to stock beds of Eurasian water milfoil with a milfoil-munching weevil in Lake Pend Oreille have been postponed until next summer, Partners for Milfoil Control has announced.

Albertson takes over stewardship of SHS athletics

Third generation SHS graduate eager to tackle athletic director duties

SANDPOINT — As Bulldog lineage goes, Sandpoint High School would be hard-pressed to find a better athletic director than Tom Albertson, who today officially succeeds Cheryl Klein in stewarding the successful athletic program.

Bonnie Jean Reed, 74

Bonnie Jean Reed, 74, passed away at her home in Sandpoint, Idaho, on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2009.

Dump site blooms with beauty

SAGLE — It’s not exactly the Louvre, but one woman’s quirky, ornate creations have turned a local garbage dump into the area’s newest must-see art gallery.

Use name and stand behind statements

After living in Sandpoint for 37 years and being a Daily Bee subscriber, I missed the news of the town I love when we moved to Post Falls two years ago.  I was delighted to learn I could access the Bee online. I am appalled, however, to see that people can comment on news articles anonymously using an alias,  with vitriolic and nasty responses and no accountability.

Thrill of hunting wolves is embarrassing to all

In Response to “Wolf Hunt on For Now”  (Sept. 2, 2009)

Holistic approach will heal health care

If our health care system were a patient, it would be on its deathbed. With current costs of $2 trillion per year — that’s $8,160 per person, per year — it’s clear that immediate intervention is required.

Service offers training, chance to serve U.S.

Parise Whitley’s critique of the military’s recruitment program was informative and useful for those who wish to avoid military service. However, for those wishing to further their education, military service might deserve a second look. My stepson received valuable training that allowed him to continue his aspirations as an interventional cardiologist. I received my pilot training from the USAF and was pleased to pay back to my country for the lifetime of security that I have received. I found that serving my country and receiving an education at the same time to be a very rewarding adventure.

Michael Vick and cruelty to animals

The owner of Slates Restaurant is to be commended for his principled stance in joining a national movement of withdrawing support for Michael Vick because of Vick’s record of cruelty to dogs. Mahatma Gandhi wisely said that “the greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated”. Michael Vick’s cruelty to dogs is, unfortunately, only the tip of a very, very large iceberg. The cruelty perpetrated on the animals we call “food” is staggering in scale.

Owner's boycott of Vick is positive move

In response to the article regarding Slates boycotting the NFL’s Eagles, as a professional businessman trying to set an example, it seems that maybe the owner of Slates should continue to sell Coors beer and air Eagles games and use those profits to donate to the spay and neuter clinic and the local animal shelter.

Are protesters more informed than thought?

I think it is so interesting how the media describes those people objecting to the policies of the current administration. Even our local media seems to do the same. In the Bee (Aug. 26), David Keyes referred to the people speaking out at town hall meetings across the nation as “hate filled, venom-spewing lunatics.” Does anyone recall the media describing President Bush’s critics in such negative terms? I think they were referred to as patriots.

CCS: An ally in fighting cancer

Donations down as need for services climbs

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Hospital Association estimates that nearly one in two Idaho residents will face cancer during their lifetime, according to historical information compiled by the Cancer Data Registry of Idaho.

Rewarding a depraved killer is not acceptable

What kind of society do we have that rewards a depraved killer like Michael Vick with a multi-million dollar contract merely because he can toss a football? What Vick did to those poor defenseless dogs by forcing them to fight to the death, killing and torturing those who refused is worthy of the Roman coliseum thirst for blood. A just punishment for Vick would be to throw him into a lions’ den rather than a mere one-and-a-half year stay in prison. For those who say everyone should have a second chance, Vick did not give those poor dogs a second chance to live.

Gwen Salesky, 89

Sandy, Ore., resident Gwen Salesky died at her home on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2009.  She was 89. 

William Lee Kice, 69

William Lee Kice, 69, of Port Townsend, Wash., passed away on Aug. 17, 2009, at Harrison Medical Center in Bremerton, Wash., due to complications with lymphatic cancer.

If you don't like reform, you haven't been sick

It’s possible to intelligently debate health-care reform without labeling opponents nasty names. Cite sources when saying I read/I saw.” Don’t quote the Internet unless address says .edu or credible non-partisan organization. Reading it online doesn’t make it true.

USFS: Fire season is moderate

SANDPOINT — Despite enduring a handful of impressive lightning storms, this summer’s fire season is shaping up to be average at worst.

If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is

There is an old saying: If it sounds to be good to be true, it probably is. So many people have always thought public schools were so great. Now what do you think with Obama’s indoctrination plan? Parents: You have contracted your kids with the government.

Schools getting broadband

COEUR d’ALENE — Gov. Butch Otter and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna announced Tuesday that 12 Idaho schools — from Bonners Ferry to Bear Lake — are the first to be connected to the new Idaho Education Network.

Political newcomers join incumbents in council race

SANDPOINT — The field is now set for Sandpoint’s City Council election, but voters will only see three new names on the ballot come November.

Guard told of possible deployment

BONNERS FERRY — Guardsmen from Bonners Ferry, Sandpoint and Post Falls Army National were placed on alert Friday for possible deployment to Iraq.

New EMS chief to start

SANDPOINT — Bonner County’s new EMS director starts this week.

Bulldogs topple Indians

COLVILLE, Wash. — Senior running back Cody Hecker had another big game and the defense gave up just seven points for the second straight week, propelling Sandpoint to a solid 20-7 road win over Colville on Friday night.

Mullan downs Clark Fork

CLARK FORK — Mullan scored the first three touchdowns of the game to provide all of the cushion they would need in a 36-12 North Star League win over host Clark Fork on Friday night.

Thompson's journal tells tale of Kullyspel House

(It has been nine years since I had the opportunity to work with Erik Daarstad filming the Sandpoint Centennial movie. The day we met Bob Betts and Mark Wendle to go to the site of David Thompson’s “Kullyspel House” is still vivid in my mind. As I stood at this historic spot, I wondered what all occurred, just beneath my feet. I turned to the man who had the answer, David Thompson and his journal. Notice the colorful way he expressed himself as he tells how the buildings that housed the first business in Idaho were built.)

Nostdahl leads Bulldogs in rout

SANDPOINT — Anders Nostdahl scored two goals and added an assist, and four other Sandpoint players found the back of the net as the Bulldogs smoked Stillwater Christian 6-1 Friday afternoon in nonleague boys soccer at Great Northern Park.

Bulldogs win Libby Invitational

LIBBY, Mont. — Jimmy Mathews finished fourth, clocking a 16:28 to lead a strong pack finish by the Sandpoint boys cross country team, which beat eight other schools to win the Libby Invitational Friday afternoon at Jay Neils Park in Libby.

Hit-and-run accident had silver lining

SANDPOINT — A local ministry is reminding folks that blessings can come in peculiar ways, even through hit-and-run collisions.

Bulldogs sweep Trojans

Kaiti Lunde led the Bulldgs with four blocks in a 25-23, 25-15, 25-17 road win over Post Falls Thursday night.

Clark Fork downs Cd'A Charter

COEUR d’ALENE — Flashing a new and improved team unity, Clark Fork scored an impressive 25-18, 25-16, 25-20 win over Coeur d’Alene Charter Thursday night.

Train strikes truck in Wednesday crash

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint woman is lucky to be alive today after her vehicle was struck by a speeding train early Wednesday morning.

Council to mull fluoride questions

SANDPOINT — Tensions ran high at Wednesday’s Public Works meeting when more than a dozen anti-fluoride activists stood before the commission to demand the city stop adding fluoride to its water.

Applications do not pose health risks

Perhaps Ms. Betz from Red Lodge, Mont., should have read those salmon colored posters that are posted saying “be aware.” The areas that are being treated have signs that are put up 48 hours before area is treated and taken down when the level are tested normal which is usually 48 hours after the area is treated. There is no health risk with the application and her fears are unwarranted.

Alleen F. McIntire, 97

Alleen F. McIntire, 97, peacefully passed away on Sunday, Aug. 30, 2009. She went to be with her Lord and Savior.

Jed B. Haines, 50

Jed B. Haines, 50, of Priest River, Idaho died Thursday, August 27, 2009 at his home.  He was born July 5, 1959, in Houston, Texas, the son of George and Carol Haines.

Get Risch quick, 'less awfuller,' Sand Creek Byway tour

There is still room on the buses Saturday for the first-ever public tour of the Sand Creek Byway project.

We are being lied to on health care reform bill

I’m reading HR 3200, the 1,017 page Health Care bill.  I won’t bore you with details. Rather, let me make some broad, general statements relative to HR 3200.

Reuter, Schuck announce bids for council seats

SANDPOINT — Despite the low pay and treacherous hours, two more residents have announced their candidacy to join the Sandpoint City Council.

Court: Trucker at fault for hitting cyclist

SANDPOINT — A judge found a Coeur d’Alene crane truck driver at fault Wednesday for colliding with a cyclist on Sagle Road last spring.

Does this nation still have a constitution?

The U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights are written contracts between the federal and state governments and the people of this great nation. The Bill of Rights guarantees us, its citizens, very specific rights that can’t not be breached or taken away by the government. The Constitution established a representative democracy for which we, the people, elect representatives to serve us in the executive branches of government.

Lawsuit sees dramatic turn

SANDPOINT — A personal injury and negligence suit filed against Schweitzer Mountain Resort appears to have taken a dramatic turn.

Kiselica, Mertz notch goals to lead Sandpoint over Moscow

MOSCOW — Four different players got into the scoring column, and Sandpoint scored a solid 4-2 road win over Moscow Tuesday in IEL girls soccer action at Moscow.

Former pro cyclist now tackling triathlons

SANDPOINT — Calling himself a full time doctor and part time athlete, Jonathan Fisher is nonetheless one of the top triathletes in the region, parlaying a background in professional cycling into newfound success at Olympic distance triathlons.

What is the purpose of police road blocks?

Regarding the activities conducted by local and state law enforcement on Friday in Bonners Ferry, which was ostensibly a drug interception, I found this: Sixth,” …the Supreme Court has upheld brief, warrantless seizures at fixed roadside checkpoints aimed at intercepting illegal ALIENS (see United States v. Martinez-Fuerte, 96 S.Ct. 3074, 428 U.S. 543, 49 L.Ed.2d 1116 [1976]) and drunk drivers (see Michigan v. Sitz, 110 S.Ct. 2481, 496 U.S. 444, 110 L.Ed.2d 412 [1990]).

Tips keep grills in top-notch shape

Summer is almost over and soon it will be time to clean up your barbecues and grills. Cleaning barbecue rack can prove to be labor intensive. Below is a tip that will make the job a lot easier.

Edward 'Ed' James Ham, 91

Edward “Ed” James Ham, 91, passed away in Sandpoint, Idaho, on Sunday, Aug. 30 2009, at the Valley Vista Care Center.

Crossingham, Wehse lead Bulldogs past Bears

SANDPOINT — A beautiful goal by Adam Crossingham and some stellar goalkeeping from Erik Wehse kept Sandpoint in the game, before an own goal by Moscow proved the difference in the Bulldogs 2-1 win over the Bears Tuesday afternoon in Inland Empire League boys soccer at Great Northern Park.

Favreau seeks new sentence

SANDPOINT — A man imprisoned for breaking a cast-iron skillet over his former wife’s head argues he should be re-sentenced due to ineffective defense counsel.

Prevention is key when dealing with Reye's syndrome

Aspirin is a staple in many medicine cabinets. But if you have children, this common medication is a potentially dangerous drug. Aspirin has been linked with Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can affect children and teenagers recovering from a viral infection.

Harold 'Andy' Andersen, 93

Harold “Andy” Andersen, 93, of Sandpoint, died in his sleep Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2009, at Life Care Center of Sandpoint with his daughter, Karlen, at his side.

Parking plan finds success

SANDPOINT — The city’s foray into a trendy new parking technique has not resulted in mass panic, but Sandpoint officials will wait until next spring before calling the project a success.

Kenneth B. Kingston, 82

Kenneth B. Kingston, 82, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2009, in Sandpoint, Idaho.

Priest River chlorine leak prompts evacuation

PRIEST RIVER — The discovery of a leaking valve on a 150-pound chlorine gas tank at the city’s water treatment plant forced the evacuation of the city’s entire five-block downtown Tuesday.