Ellington

Senior leadership to drive Bulldogs' chances

SANDPOINT — Boasting three returning starters, a front line featuring the most height in years, a varsity comprised of nine seniors and two juniors and a couple of athletic newcomers, it’s little wonder why Sandpoint boys basketball coach Tyler Haynes is excited to tip off the season tonight.

Motorcycle club helps Lions scoot closer to $50K goal

SANDPOINT — This year Santa and her helpers are riding motorcycles.

City: Pay BID soon or face collection

SANDPOINT — City officials will be asking dozens of business owners for some holiday giving in the form of unpaid Business Improvement District fees this December. 

Property owners bear burden in district levies

A levy to once again cover a Lake Pend Oreille School District budget shortfall should be based on income rather than property values. At a time when people are losing their homes through mortgage foreclosures, an increase in taxes should not be put on the backs of property owners, many of whom senior citizens on fixed incomes.

Making abortion illegal is not the answer

Thanks and dittos to Dennis Shellhorn, Bob Wynhausen and Dan Mimmack for your letters to the editor (Oct. 26, Daily Bee.) I totally agree with you all. As for Brady Smith’s letter: while I would agree that abortion is a very bad (and sad) thing, making it illegal is the same as sticking your head in the sand. We’ve already been down that road. Just because it’s illegal doesn’t mean it won’t continue. It’s better to make something that will happen regardless, safe.

Joseph R. Fey, 73

Joseph R. Fey, 73, passed away with his wife at his side on Tuesday, Nov. 23, 2010, at his home north of Clark Fork, Idaho, following a brief, but valiant battle with cancer.

Depot's future is still unclear

SANDPOINT — The future of the historic Sandpoint Depot remains unclear.

Scootin' Sisters thank community

The Scootin’ Sisters would like to thank everyone in the community who helped this years’ event be so successful: Aerocet, Akido, Athlete's Choice, Behind the Wheel, Ben Franklin, Blue Sky Broadcasting, Bonner County Daily Bee,

Margaret Jane Crowell, 83

Margaret Jane Crowell passed on to be with the Lord on Wednesday, Nov. 24, 2010.

Yes, Virginia, there are Jews in North Idaho

When I first moved here over seventeen years ago, the Aryans were in full force and friends in Arizona were fearful for me. In my naivety, I said, “Don’t worry, I’ll be fine.”  Barbara Veraniam hosted a “Jewish Women’s Brunch” and there I met other wonderful Jewish women, and later, wonderful Jewish men, who have since become good friends.

Local students helped celebrate veterans

Veteran’s Day has passed but not unnoticed here in Sandpoint. It started for me on Monday at a Veteran’s Day program at Northside Elementary, where veterans were fed lunch and then treated to a program put on by the students and faculty. I felt an air of respect from the students throughout the program. I was at Northside because I was invited by my two grandsons, Tyler and Garrett Connolly.

Anglers shake up LPOIC Derby standings

SANDPOINT — Anglers from Sandpoint and the East Coast shook up the Lake Pend Oreille Idaho Club Thanksgiving Derby standings on Friday.

Couple dies in U.S. 95 crash

COEUR D'ALENE — The Idaho State Police say a Post Falls couple died and their 16-year-old son was injured in a collision on snow-covered U.S. 95 south of Coeur d'Alene.

Shelter closure leaves victims in danger

SANDPOINT — A homeless puppy is cute and thoroughly adoptable. A child in need is heart-rending and easy to help. But a woman who has been beaten black-and-blue is just plain terrifying.

Cut jobless benefits but not Bush tax cuts?

Last week the House of Representatives voted down a bill to extend unemployment compensation (HR 6419) through the end of February 2011. Walt Minnick voted no. It would have been a three-month extension of the Nov. 30, 2010, termination costing $12 billion. The benefits would have gone to those in great need.

Stokes, Ivy atop derby

SANDPOINT — With warmer temperatures on the horizon and the holiday in the rearview mirror, Lake Pend Oreille Idaho Club’s Thanksgiving Derby heated as a strong day on the lake saw a lot of changes on the leader board.

Cocolalla Ice Plant workers had harvesting down to a science

(I want to thank Judy Pederson for having the foresight to interview many of the early residents of the Cocolalla area. Nothing is left along the shore line of Lake Cocolalla that would indicate that years ago there existed an enterprise that was one of the two largest employers in the area — the other being Humbird Mill. 

County wades into Outlet Bay dock dispute

SANDPOINT — Landowners at Priest Lake’s Outlet Bay are seeking Bonner County’s help in installing a dock to replace one that was removed by a homeowner’s association.

Alma Ree Syth, 81

Alma Ree Syth, 81, passed away on Friday, Nov. 19, 2010, in Sandpoint, Idaho. 

Dogs learn rescue skills

PONDERAY — Dogs might be man’s best friend, but in search and rescue situations, they can also be a lifesaver.

Wampus Cats look to bounce back this season

CLARK FORK — New Clark Fork boys basketball head coach Corey Vogel played for the Wampus Cats back in the late 1980’s, and he coached the junior varsity for the past two years, so he couldn’t help but feel the sting of last year’s winless season for the boys basketball team.

Woman dies in accident

SANDPOINT — Icy roads resulted in a number of accidents Thursday, including a fatal accident near Bonners Ferry and another near Elmira that sent five people to the hospital.

County's jobless rate inches upward

Seasonally adjusted unemployment rates rose in two dozen of Idaho’s counties last month, reflecting the tenth of a percentage point increase the statewide jobless rate posted for October.

No changes in winter highway maintenance

SANDPOINT — State highway motorists will see no changes in winter maintenance routines as the Idaho Transportation Department wraps its arms around a shortage in funding.

Court upholds life sentence

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Supreme Court is affirming the life sentence imposed on an Oldtown man convicted of repeatedly molesting a 6-year-old boy.

Morgan honored as 4A Inland Empire League Defensive MVP

SANDPOINT — Senior middle linebacker Luther Morgan was named Defensive Most Valuable Player, headlining a strong contingent of Sandpoint players named to the 4A All-Inland Empire League 2010 football team, as voted on recently by the league’s coaches.

Much has been accomplished in city parks

Dear Sandpoint citizens,

Cleanup sponsors, helpers appreciated

We wish to thank all who participated in the highway cleanup in memory of Kip Smith.

SAR launches 2010 Giving Tree project

SANDPOINT — During this holiday season, the agents, brokers, members, affiliates and staff of the Selkirk Association of Realtors are taking the words of Winston Churchill to heart: “We make a living by what we do, but we make a life by what we give.”

Giving thanks for our blessings

SANDPOINT  — There is much to be thankful for — simple things, really.

Woman sentenced for fatal collision

SANDPOINT — A Washington state woman who accidentally killed a participant in an interstate relay race last summer was given the maximum sentence of a year in jail on Wednesday.

Foundation gives donation to Finally Home

BOISE — US Bancorp Foundation recently contributed $8,500 to the Finally Home! homebuyer education program administered by the Idaho Partners for Home Buyer Education, Inc.

Pepperdine, Kohal pick up wins at Orofino MMA fights

OROFINO — Sandpoint’s Tim Pepperdine ran his record to 4-1 with a win over Yakima’s Junior Martinez, leading a strong showing of Sandpoint Mixed Martial Arts fighters in action Saturday night in Orofino.

Stoll lands prestigious national academic honor

SANDPOINT — University of Montana senior safety Erik Stoll was named to the 2010 All-Big Sky Conference first team on Tuesday, but to proud father Bob Stoll, that honor ran a distant second to another award handed out on the same day.

Bonner General recognizes home health workers

More than 11 million Americans receive home-delivered health care from home health care providers. In their honor, Bonner General Hospital joins the National Association for Home Care & Hospice in recognizing November as National Home Care Month.

Food bank demand increases

SANDPOINT — Times are tough this holiday season, but the Bonner Community Food Center knows there’s always a reason to be thankful.

Storm wreaks havoc in community

SANDPOINT — Winter hit Bonner County hard Monday night, and area residents spent Tuesday picking up after the destructive wind and cold.

Appeals court rejects ruling in DUI arrest

SANDPOINT — Idaho’s Court of Appeals is overturning two lower court rulings that suppressed evidence in a drunken-driving case in which a Sandpoint Police officer pursued the suspect outside of city limits and arrested him.

Sandpoint residents issue invitation to 'feel the hunger'

Editor’s note: This is the first of three stories about a local initiative, Feel the Hunger Day, to raise awareness of world hunger.

Trooper to face criminal charge

SANDPOINT — An Idaho State Police trooper will be prosecuted for harvesting a bull moose out of season.

Six Top Dog wrestlers nab titles at home meet

SANDPOINT — Thirteen Top Dog wrestlers advanced to the championship round at Saturday’s North Idaho Wrestling League team championships held at Sandpoint Middle School. The tournament drew wrestlers from across the Idaho Panhandle as well as several from the Spokane area.

Those enforcing policy are heroes, winners

My congratulations to Lake Pend Oreille School District for enforcing its zero tolerance to drugs policy, even at the cost of not only the school community, but the community in general. 

Fire destroys Cocolalla home

COCOLALLA — A fire leveled a two-story home and attached shop on Monday afternoon.

Review bill to prevent third-party charges

Watch your monthly billing from Frontier. Evidently third companies such as OAN are unable to bill us/we the customers directly so they submit their “so-called authorized billings” as third-party services through local telephone venders.

Winter wallops Bonner County

SANDPOINT — Northwest U.S. residents will likely be more thankful for space heaters than anything else as they contend with this week’s bone-chilling weather.

Sadly, styling trumps integrity in many cases

 In the demeaner of politics it appears to me that reason overall worldwide has taken a leave of abscence. Styling trumps integrity in many cases.

Proposed district is not wanted or needed

The proposed county watershed protection district overlay ordinance is unnecessary, costly and invasive. Applies city rules inappropriate to rural living.

Idaho makes basic Career Information System free to public

The basic service of the Idaho Career Information System is now available free to the public.

Getting Ahead class fights poverty cycle

Moderated debate on issues would be nice

I want to thank the Bee for all the letters during this,”crazy season” of political sparring between candidates. You surprised me in printing my letter about public employees unions and endorsements. Also, thanks to Mr. Hilton of Sagle, for his counter position and good narrative; it promotes hard examination of tough issues.

Stokes , Ivy lead LPOIC derby

Roy Stokes of Post Falls and Dave ivy of Sagle are at the top of the leader board as the 2010 Lake Pend Oreille Idaho Club Thanksgiving Derby kicked off Saturday.

Lifesavers are true heroes in community

I would like to thank the following folks for saving the life of Deborah, my bride of more than 40 years. Due to a life-threatening medical emergency I called 911 on  Sunday morning, Nov. 14. I was fortunate enough to connect with Misty, a 911 operator, who kept me calm, took all the necessary information, and coached me as to what to do while I waited.

Man found dead at lodge

SAGLE — A California man was found dead in his hotel room after Bonner County Sheriff’s officials received a request Saturday morning to check on his welfare.

Search to start for new library director

SANDPOINT — The East Bonner County Free Library District is forming a search committee for a new library director following Wayne Gunter’s retirement after 13 years.

Bee should not print non-stories on wolves

I am puzzled why Hagadone press publishes sensationalist stories about wolves.

Why not gave trips to executions as well?

Here’s my take in reference to the recent opinion about the cow and its disembowelment, for what it’s worth.

4-H club seeks help to make holidays merry

I am writing on behalf of the 4-H club, The Beaver Creek Kritters. For the past three years, we have hosted a “Free Christmas” for our community. We are planning another Free Christmas event this year, too. Free Christmas is a way our club helps out our community and helps us complete the community service part of our projects.

Cocolalla Ice House delivered blue ice throughout the nation

(I want to thank Judy Pederson for sharing with me her 1980 interviews with Lee Bates, and Bill and Frank Mase. Their memories give us an excellent picture of the size and scope of the ice house of Cocolalla.)

Woman accused of selling diseased puppies

SANDPOINT — A jury trial is pending for a woman accused of selling puppies infected with parvovirus out of her Oldtown store.

Vogel leads Cats past Tigers in opener

CLARK FORK — Sophomore Tessa Vogel celebrated her 16th birthday in style, dropping in a game-high nine points to go with 11 rebounds and six steals, leading Clark Fork to a 41-18 win over Mullan in the season-opening North Star League tournament at Clark Fork High School.

Trinity at City Beach named chamber's top business

SANDPOINT — Trinity at City Beach has been honored as the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce’s “business of the month” in November for its generosity in the community.

Former office manager finally charged in theft

SANDPOINT — The former office manager of the University of Idaho Extension Office has been charged with grand theft for allegedly embezzling public funds.

2010 falls sports season in the books

Since quarter-sized snowflakes are currently falling outside the window of the Daily Bee, it seemed appropriate to get a fall sports wrap up column out before the winter sports season hits full gear.

Dover gets water grant

DOVER — With the Friday acquisition of water planning grant, Dover residents won’t be running out of the fundamental ingredient for life any time soon.

Wampus Cats primed for another run at state tournament

CLARK FORK — The bad news is that the Clark Fork girls varsity basketball team has only seven players to start the season, which tips off tonight when the Wampus Cats host Mullan in the four-team North Star League Tournament.

Russell N. Brodeur, 81

Russell N. Brodeur, 81 of Sandpoint, Idaho, died Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2010, at Kootenai Medical Center.

Robert Loren 'Robby' Hubbard

Robert Loren “Robby” Hubbard passed away on Oct. 29, 2010, at St. Patrick’s Hospital in Missoula, Mont., after a 20-year struggle with bi-polar disorder.

More snow needed for Schweitzer opening

SANDPOINT — A little more snow is needed before Schweitzer Mountain Resort can open for the winter.

Former Sandpoint wrestler inducted into coaches Hall of Fame

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint native Mark Perry, a two-sport standout who graduated from Sandpoint High School in 1979, was recently inducted into the Washington State Wrestling Coaches Hall of Fame.

Stoll receives prestigious academic honor again

MISSOULA, Mont. — Former Sandpoint football player and current University of Montana senior safety Erik Stoll was once again named to the 2010 ESPN Academic University Division 1 All-District 7 football first team recently.

Fuel spilled during crash

MOYIE SPRINGS — Approximately 200 gallons of diesel fuel was spilled after a tractor-trailer overturned on U.S. Highway 95 on Wednesday.

Crook wins lottery prize

SANDPOINT — Six-year Sandpoint resident Jason Crook had been playing the Idaho Lottery’s Scratch Game Free Ride regularly for a year since it debuted in the fall of 2009.

Corey sets designs on making houses into homes

PONDERAY — For those engaged in the eternal “kitchen island or no kitchen island” debate, Selkirk Glass and Cabinets is offering assistance with its new design specialist.

Response to question shows dishonesty

I was not present at the community hall for Mike Crapo’s visit (”Crapo visits Sandpoint,” Daily Bee, Oct. 27), but his responses to questions from what the Bee described as tea party members shows his dishonesty.

Go ahead, touch my junk to keep me safe

I guess we’ve all heard the new battle cry,”don’t touch my junk.”

Special exemptions for Muslims unacceptable

The recent images in the news of the Muslim TSA woman frisking the thighs of a Christian nun wearing a habit has ignited a tsunami of outrage, and has inflamed the already-heated issue of increased airport security in America involving scanners and pat-down body searches. Almost everyone agrees the pat downs are excessive, but if they’re going to be done, then everyone gets the same treatment. After all, they’re looking for explosives and weapons; this is not a game. But Muslims claim the procedures violate their religious beliefs and feel they have a right to a special exemption from it.

Alan Beaulieu

Alan Beaulieu passed away on Oct. 28, 2010, at 11:45 a.m. in Calgary, Canada.

Sandpoint MMA fighters return to action on Saturday

Sandpoint MMA fighters return to action on Saturday

Clagstone Meadows wins conceptual approval

Ample battleground remains for opponents

SANDPOINT — Clagstone Meadows earned conceptual approval from the Bonner County commission on Wednesday.

Council OKs fee increases

SANDPOINT — Residents arrived in droves for the November City Council meeting — most to voice disapproval of the fee increases initially proposed last month.

Fear overriding reason with airport scanners

There is a lack of interest in the pattern airline body scans and so called pat downs. Why have we become so submissive? Fear overrides reason.

Voice betrays robbery suspect

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint man was arrested Wednesday morning for the armed robbery of a payday loan office last week.

De-listing questioned

SANDPOINT — A proposal to remove the Pend Oreille River from a list of Idaho waters impaired by phosphorus is generating concern among water quality watchdogs.

Rands family sets off on a journey of a lifetime

Jeff Rands has traded in his Realtor hat to join the U.S. foreign service.

Nesbitt, Becker and Berkley make all-league team

CLARK FORK — Senior running back/linebacker Nate Nesbitt, senior lineman James Becker and junior quarterback Stillman Berkley were each named to the 2010 All-North Star League football team, as voted on by the league’s coaches.

Bulldogs fall short against Trojans

SANDPOINT — For a good indicator of how far the Sandpoint girls basketball program has come in one year consider this: Last year, the Bulldogs lost both games to the Trojans by the combined score of 117-43. This year, behind some scrappy defense, the Bulldogs held a late third quarter lead before falling 49-42 to the Trojans in nonleague girls basketball Tuesday night at Les Rogers Court.

Paul J. Bankhead

On Nov. 12, 2010, Paul J. Bankhead of Heron, Mont., went home to be with the Lord.

LPOSD ponders levy options

PONDERAY — No matter what option the Lake Pend Oreille School Board selects, trustees will be asking voters to improve a supplemental levy increase.

BGH recognizes area hospice workers

When faced with a terminal illness, fear takes on many forms. Some patients fear the loss of control they will have over their own lives, while the fear of dying alone and in pain compels others to simply give up on their precious last days.

Litehouse now dressing up the Kibbie Dome

SANDPOINT — The Hawkins family has about a million reasons they are proud to be University of Idaho boosters.

Excessive rain can cause drainage problems

With inclement weather come floods. Last week I received calls from local residents needing assistance because their basement or sunken living room flooded from excessive rain. Generally this situation happens because of hydrostatic pressure forcing water through the cracks or pores of the concrete foundation.

Anna F. Bennett, 92

Former Bonner County resident Anna F. Bennett, 92, of Spokane, Wash.,  died Monday, Nov. 15, 2010, in Spokane.

Trio of Wampus Cats named to all-league team

CLARK FORK — Junior setter Celeste Komanec was named co-Most Valuable Player on the All-North Star League volleyball team, as voted on recently by the league’s coaches.

What are the benefits of dog parks exactly?

I’m curious. Exactly what are the “detailed benefits of dog parks” as Sandpoint Police Chief Mark Lockwood states? Also which “parks across the country” is he talking about?

Top Dogs making noise

SANDPOINT — With three tournaments under their belts and two to go, the Top Dog Wrestling Club is not only aging but also gaining wisdom with each experience. Boasting a bevy of talent in its older age groups and reloading within the younger groups, the Top Dogs collected more than 30 medals at three events.

City to stick with Bonner County EMS

SANDPOINT — The city is sticking with the status quo for emergency medical services.

Clagstone hearing set

SANDPOINT — Bonner County commissioners are scheduled to resume deliberation Wednesday on one of the largest housing developments ever contemplated.

Thanks for all you did for us, George

I must admit that I wasn’t prepared for the interview George Bush had with Oprah recently. I expected Oprah to barbecue the ex-president with vicious questions about the way he conducted his administration through some tough times. Well, she did ask the tough questions but finally Bush took the opportunity  to answer these in his own words.

Irene Helen Brackett, 93

Irene Helen Brackett, 93, of Sandpoint, Idaho, died Saturday, Nov. 13, 2010, at Huckleberry Retirement Home.

A little holiday cheer can go a long way

As party-goers celebrate the holidays with friends and family, law enforcement administrators across Bonner County want to remind everyone to keep the party off the road. Remember, buzzed driving is drunken driving.

DayBreak Center celebrates move to new home

SANDPOINT — After its recent move into its new facility at 820 Main St., the DayBreak Center  celebrated with a ribbon cutting sponsored by the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce.

Cystinosis fundraiser eclipses $40,000

Local runner raises more than $8,100 by running 120 miles

SANDPOINT — Every mile was worth $68, every hour was worth $340 and every minute was worth $5.67 as Sandpoint’s Chuy Fragoso ran a whopping 120 miles at the 24 hour Cycling for Cystinosis fundraiser in September in the Selle Valley.

Why wasn't injured player mentioned?

The article about Sandpoint’s victory over Moscow made no mention of the injured Moscow player who was on the ground for an inordinate amount of time before finally being taken off the field on a stretcher, and I could not find any other reference to it in the rest of the Bee. It should warrant a line or two — in the interest of good sportsmanship if for no other reason.

Man faces lewd conduct charge

SANDPOINT — A Montana man has been arrested on charges that he molested a 7-year-old girl in Bonner County.

Tax credit benefits PAFE donations

Group tries to help balance state education cuts

SANDPOINT — As a political lobbyist, local attorney and Panhandle Alliance for Education board member Bill Berg is batting a thousand. True, he admits, he has only lobbied for a total of one bill, but that legislation passed overwhelmingly, helped along by the fact that it was hand-carried to Idaho lawmakers by a unified front that included Rep. George Eskridge, Sen. Shawn Keough and Rep. Eric Anderson.

Get your news from many different sources

Mr. Johnson: Fox News as fair and balanced? Really? Fox News that is owned by Rupert Murdoch and Prince Alwaleed bin Talal al Saud, the main contributor to the Islamic Center near ground zero?

A one-party system hurts Idaho residents

I can remember the 1950s when there was as much discrimination in union towns as there was in red-neck, right-wing rural communities. The unions needed to sell the idea that the more people included, the better the economics were for all. I remember the union slogan from the ’50s. “There was Joe who did not know; discrimination costs you dough.”

Use money and build schools, classrooms

Perhaps I am jumping into something that I know very little about but I had a thought regarding the problem that our county commissioners are having coming up with enough funds to build a new kiddy prison in our community. What if they took the funds that they have and used that money to build a school or at least add more classrooms to existing schools. Seems like I keep hearing about the benefits of education versus incarceration. Just a thought.

Where is the outrage over Rush Limbaugh?

Rush Limbaugh is a truly despicable person and a racist. Just this week, in discussing the competition for the Democratic minority whip position in the next Congress between Steny Hoyer (white) and James Clyburn (black), he suggested that Clyburn could retain his perks by “Driving Miss Nancy.” It was an unmistakable reference to the great movie, Driving Miss Daisy, in which Morgan Freeman played a chauffeur for an aristocratic Southern woman.

Let me start my own tea party on the left

Trying to fix a government that is broken is no revolution. Being the wild extension of the Republican party, Tea Party, you’re still part of one of the oldest institutions in history. Rebellion is for teenagers and the very few who believe, like I do, that you’re group dominated, old-world caste system of debt and high tech indentured servitude is a deeply flawed mistake.

Bulldogs drop season opener to Tigers

SANDPOINT — Senior shooting guard Charissa Chatburn scored a team-high 13 points, including three bombs from beyond the arc, but it wasn’t enough as Sandpoint dropped its season opener 53-34 to Timberlake Friday night in nonleague girls basketball at Les Rogers Court.

Community mourns passing of beloved 'Grandma'

SANDPOINT — Lorena Hawkins wasn’t just a mother to her four children.

Robber strikes payday loan office

SANDPOINT — A knife-wielding robber held up a loan office on Friday morning and made off with an undisclosed amount of cash, Sandpoint Police Chief Mark Lockwood said.

Cocolalla plant once kept nation cold with prime 'blue ice'

Anyone fortunate enough to have been born before the days of modern refrigeration remembers the sound of the horse and wagon nearing the house with its load of huge blocks of ice.

Country Store delivers a new shopping option

SANDPOINT — Rod Miller knows that nothing quite tops the sights and smells in Mom’s kitchen after some chocolate chip cookies emerge piping hot from the oven.

Rosholt returns to cage in Xtreme Fight Night

SANDPOINT — After a brief hiatus from the cage, former Sandpoint and Oklahoma State wrestling standout and mixed martial arts fighter Jake Rosholt is back in action tonight as the main event in the debut of Xtreme Fight Night in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Duane M. Stolley

Duane M. Stolley passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2010, at his home in Naples, Idaho, after a four-year battle against melanoma cancer.

Gunter explains abrupt retirement

SANDPOINT — Wayne Gunter is breaking his relative silence about his sudden retirement as director of the East Bonner County Library District.

Bulldogs looking to 'play as one' this season

SANDPOINT — If hard work does indeed pay off, as the old saying goes, then it could be the best season in years for the Sandpoint girls basketball team, which kicks off its season tonight at home against Timberlake.

Stephen Lee Samuelson, 62

Stephen Lee Samuelson, 62, of Boise, Idaho, passed away on Nov. 10, 2010, at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Boise following a lifelong battle with diabetes, heart and kidney disease.  Above all, Stephen was a tenacious survivor who refused to let illness get him down.

Community salutes region's soldiers

SANDPOINT — Civilians and soldiers alike huddled together against the cold Thursday morning to stand in honor of America’s veterans.

Duo fends off wolf pack

Two Flathead Valley men who were retrieving an elk in the South Fork Flathead drainage say they ended up fending off a pack of aggressive wolves Saturday.

Idaho Club lenders start foreclosure proceedings

SANDPOINT — Lenders are moving to foreclose on developers of the upscale Idaho Club, which has suffered with the sharp decline in demand for high-end real estate in the Panhandle.

Buratto leads four Bulldogs on All-IEL volleyball team

SANDPOINT — Senior Sam Buratto was named Co-Player of the Year as the 4A All-Inland Empire League volleyball team was released, as voted on by the league’s coaches.

No time for despair as action, hope needed

We have new energy crisis deniers elected to Congress, but don’t assume this represents the will of the people. This election cycle has allowed corporations to assert unprecedented influence, i.e. money, big oil and dirty coal have spent $70 million on energy-related attack ads and put $20 million directly into the pockets of their allies running for Congress. That is on top of the $500 million spent previously. Sen. Mike Crapo had previously received more than $200,000 from “big oil.”

Defense tab in brown case tops $77,000

SANDPOINT — More than $77,000 in public funds were expended to safeguard Keith Allen Brown’s constitutional right to counsel and a defense in his case.

A tax on the rich ends as a tax on everyone

Another reason I’m a stanch conservative:

Paul B, Armstrong, 84

Paul B, Armstrong, 84, passed away in Post Falls, Idaho, on Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2010.

'Greatest' soldiers reflect on service

SANDPOINT — One of America’s most precious resources  — its World War II veterans — is dwindling.

American people were the biggest winners

Jubilant Republicans, supported in large part by the Tea Party movement, have worked hard and deserve their day. Clearly the biggest winner on Nov. 2, however, was the American people. They have demonstrated that no matter what party is in power that they will be heard and their voice can reshape Washington and influence the state levels as well.

Mary Kay (Booth) Clark, 86

Mary Kay (Booth) Clark passed from death to life and into the arms of her Savior Jesus Christ at the age of 86 on Nov. 8, 2010. She died of natural causes at home at Royal Columbian Assisted Living in Kennewick, Wash.

Floyd Howard Bailey

Floyd Howard Bailey was born June 13, 1935, in Aitkin, Minn.,  to Howard and Esther Bailey. Floyd passed peacefully in his home in Caldwell, Idaho, on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2010.

Here's the buzz on how to eliminate fruit flies

Last week I received a call from a very nice lady who said she was having problems with little flies.

Alan C. Bergman, 64

Alan C. Bergman, 64, of Rapid City, S.D., passed away on Sunday, Nov. 7, 2010, at Rapid City Regional Hospital.

It's no surprise that the bills increased

What a surprise. Thanks to Dover Bay, the water/sewer bill has gone from $75 per month to $98.90 a month. I was at the meeting when Ralph Sletager said, “If anything, your water/sewer bill will go down.”

Lorena Hawkins, 87

Lorena Hawkins was born Aug. 24, 1923. She passed away on Nov. 8, 2010.

A Sandpoint Charter student's perspective

One sunny October morning, a large majority of students, including myself, went on a field trip to watch a steer get slaughtered. We were given a choice, go or don’t go.

PBCA donates funds to Habitat chapter

The Panhandle Building Contractors Association’s fall fundraiser dinner and auction was a giant success, organizers said.

Timothy James Fitzgerald, 51

Timothy James Fitzgerald, 51, of Powell, Ohio, died peacefully on Sunday, Nov. 7, 2010, surrounded by his loving family after a five-year battle against lung cancer.

Broken pipe at Washington soaks library

Quick action limits damage

SANDPOINT — Water damage from a burst pipe at Washington Elementary last week could have been much worse if not for the school staff’s speedy action.

November promotes awareness of diabetes

November is American Diabetes Month — a time to shine a spotlight on a serious disease that leads to potentially life-threatening complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness, and amputation.

Driver ticketed following crash

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint woman was cited for violating the rules of the road following a collision with a tractor-trailer on Fifth Avenue last week.

Sandpoint Volleyball Club to hold tryouts on Sunday

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint has long been known as a volleyball hotbed within the inland northwest, and much of that stems from a thriving club program.

Otter: Legislative session is going to be a lean one

COEUR d’ALENE — The next legislative session is going to be a lean one.

Awash in a sea of pink after home improvement project goes awry

“Hey Dad, I can see the living room from here!”

Bulldog boys swim team shines at state

BOISE — It was all about quality, not quantity for the Sandpoint boys swim team, which earned a fourth place trophy at the Idaho state swim meet on Saturday despite having only five swimmers competing.

Estimated revenue is not achievable

The tentative FYE 2011 budget for Bonner County was published in the Daily Bee on Aug. 19, 2010.

Small minority drove Sarah Palin from office

I agree with James Ramsey about the interesting election. One item that I wanted to address was Gov. Sarah Palin’s resignation. I also found this very troubling and confusing until I read her reasons in her book. As she states in her book, “It got to the point where I thought, to do this job, you either have to be rich or corrupt.” (page 373, “Going Rogue”) She continued this thought further down: “The truth is that the obstructionists figured out a way to inflict heavy personal financial toll on their opponents at no cost to themselves. In Alaska, the governor and executive staff have to hire attorneys at their own expense to defend themselves against ethics charges, no matter how frivolous, malicious or ill-conceived an ethics complaint may be. The state attorney general cannot provide representation under the law because these types of complaints are considers ‘personal’ even though they arise from government service. The liberal mentality is that if a charge doesn’t stick, personal bankruptcy has to eventually.” While some in Alaska have recommended changing this, legislators have yet to do so.” So her resigning was a necessary choice for her personally and it also saved the state of Alaska thousands of dollars as it was obvious that this tactic was going to continue along with the avalanche of Freedom of Information requests that were literally stopping any work from being done. The entire executive branch was paralyzed and that certainly was not what the people of Alaska deserved.

Informed voters made right choice with Scott

Congratulations to Marie Scott on her victory in Tuesday’s election! Marie has served Bonner County well over these past years and with any luck for many more years to come.

Jack H. Plumb, 89

Jack H. Plumb, 89, passed away in Kootenai, Idaho, on Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010.

MADD returns to the Panhandle

SANDPOINT — Mothers Against Drunk Driving is restoring its presence in the Panhandle.

Our government is the best money can buy

To paraphrase Will Rogers, “we’ve got the best government money can buy.” Some of the elections in Bonner County surely proved this maxim to be true.

Ness outlines ITD overhaul

Fewer managers, less red tape and more boots on ground

SANDPOINT — Idaho Transportation Department Director Brian Ness outlined a realignment of the agency Monday that aims to improve customer service, efficiency and accountability.

Edward Ernest Ahlquist, 85

Edward Ernest Ahlquist, 85, of Sandpoint, Idaho, died Saturday, Nov. 6, 2010, at Life Care.

Justin Lee Tallman, 32

Justin Lee Tallman, 32, of Clark Fork died Thursday, Nov. 4, 2010, at his home.

City's artwork goes round and round

SANDPOINT — Drivers taking a spin around the roundabout on Larch and Boyer will now get a daily dose of cultural appreciation with the installation of new artwork.

David Jenkins was true hero in the community

My first memory of David Jenkins was at Sandpoint West Athletic Club, it left me a bit envious. Here was a person facing dramatic physical challenges, who displayed such fearless emotional strength, confidence and compassion, it initiated a self-evaluation of my own life. It was not long before my envy turned to inspiration.

Photographs a powerful reminder on Veterans Day

As Veterans Day approaches, some of us know firsthand the realities of war — we either have family members currently serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, a grandfather or great-grandfather who is a World War II or Vietnam War veteran — or have lost a loved one to war.

Do you think a cow slaughter is a good idea for a field trip?

Rescuers stumble across missing vet

Editor’s note: This is the end of a two-part series on Stuart Nelson’s survival in the Yukon. Check out the beginning in Saturday’s paper or on the web.

Couple hike 3,500 miles on local trails

Fullings make weekly treks in any weather

SANDPOINT — Together, they have hiked nearly 3,500 miles over the course of about 360 trips to the trailhead. For Betsy and Jim Fulling, these hikes are more than a passion for the outdoors. They are the weekly remembrance of a love story that plays itself out on the trail.

Damming creek is wrong thing to do

I am writing this protest of Stimson Lumber Company’s damming of Beaver Creek. I have had a couple of hundred feet of Kelso Lake for the last four years and have enjoyed fishing and the wildlife of the great outdoors. If they give permission to Stimson Lumber Co. to shut down Beaver Creek, it will lower Kelso Lake and some property owners will be left without a beach.

It's time for trooper to step down from post

Now that Idaho State Police trooper Jeff Jayne has admitted to poaching of big game in the state of Idaho, it’s time for him to step down from his authority position as a state trooper. How many other mistakes has he made or lied about that have cost good people their jobs or a lot of money having to defend against this communistic cop? Karma has finally caught up with this person.

UP engineers need to learn how to share

Those Union Pacific engineers have class, with no big egos, as surely they took instructions on public relations. When the northbound train needs to pause for a minute or 30 before getting clearance to cross the BNSF tracks at the intersection north of town, it is way more classier to creep up 200 yards closer and block both the Boyer and Division crossings than it is to stop short of Boyer so that at least one crossing is open. Those choo-choo drivers rock.

No such thing as reciprocity in Islam

Religious facilities in the United States, by law, are supposed to be financed and built by individuals, not the government. Mosques are said to be planned not only near ground zero but also throughout the country. If these religious facilities are financed by foreign money, then the question is: Can a foreign government, under the guise of religious freedom, accomplish what our own government is forbidden to do?

Time has come to end daylight saving time

I have talked to quite a few people about Daylight Saving time and all agree Sandpoint and Bonners Ferry would like it to remain the way it is now and not change. In northern Idaho, I live alone and it gets dark so early and it makes the evening so long, it’s hard to take.

Woman accused of embezzlement

SANDPOINT — A preliminary hearing was postponed Wednesday for a Bonner County woman accused of embezzling money from a fuel distributor in Oldtown.

BCSO investigation has made us safer

Recently, the Daily Bee printed an article informing us that our sheriff, Daryl Wheeler, had coordinated a long and difficult, behind-the-scenes investigation of illegal gang activities while we slept. We may never know the far-reaching positive effects of this roundup.

Trooper's explanation was simply ludicrous

Regarding the illegal harvest of a moose by Idaho State Police Trooper Jeff Jayne: I, and the constituents of Bonner County and the great state of Idaho, have something to say.

Quest Aircraft announces layoffs

SANDPOINT — Quest Aircraft Co. announced Friday that 26 full-time employees have been laid off from the local plane manufacturer.

15-year sentence imposed in Priest Lake slaying

SANDPOINT — A former Bonner County man who pleaded to unlawfully shooting a Priest Lake man to death during a heated argument was given a 15-year prison sentence on Friday.

'Daddy Huff' renowned in Blue Lake area

Calvin Hardesty Huff was a pioneer of the Blue Lake area, which is located about 12 miles north of Priest River. He was born on Feb. 12, 1868, and was known throughout the Blue Lake Valley as “Daddy Huff.” He was a woodsman, trapper, carpenter, ranger, farmer and a tanner. He took great pride in being a devoted family man.

Mishap strands vet in Yukon wilderness

Editor’s note: This is the beginning of a two-part series on Stuart Nelson’s survival in the Yukon. Look for the story’s conclusion, along with Nelson’s list of essential survival items, in tomorrow’s paper.

Did you know?

Name: Stuart Nelson

Brosnahan nabs coaching award; SHS swims at state

SANDPOINT — Longtime and popular Sandpoint swimming coach Mike Brosnahan was named the Idaho State Coach of the Year, as voted on by coaches around the state recently.

Bulldogs suffer 33-0 shutout loss in playoff opener

SANDPOINT — For some stats that tell the tale of Skyview’s 33-0 dispatching of Sandpoint in a 4A playoff opener Friday night at Barlow Stadium, consider this: Skyview quarterback Hunter Hyde threw for 308 yards and four touchdowns, and that was just in the first half.

Jobless rate increases for third straight month

Total employment in Idaho slipped further in October, pushing the forecasted seasonally adjusted unemployment rate up another notch to 9.1 percent.

Rich refutes campaign claims

SANDPOINT — Bonner County Commissioner Lewie Rich is disputing a political opponent’s contention that he campaigned while conducting county business.

Doris Lucille Lloyd, 92

Doris Lucille Lloyd, 92, of Sandpoint, Idaho, died Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2010, at Valley Vista Care Center.

Clarence T. 'Lindy' Linstrum, 96

Clarence T. “Lindy” Linstrum, 96, of Sandpoint, Idaho, died Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010, at Luther Park.

'The kind of player you hope to coach'

SANDPOINT — In the Bulldogs’ stirring 31-28 double-overtime win over Moscow, versatile Sandpoint senior Eric Nikssarian caught a touchdown pass, ran for a touchdown and came up one yard short of throwing for a touchdown — and that was just on offense.

Body found after fire

CLARK FORK — An adult white male was discovered in a mobile home that was destroyed by fire early Thursday morning, Bonner County Sheriff’s officials said.

Bulldogs host Hawks in playoff opener

SANDPOINT — The win-or-go-home portion of the season, also known as the playoffs, kicks off tonight when Sandpoint hosts Skyview in the opening round of the 4A state football playoffs.

City backs Memorial Field project

SANDPOINT — Residents had parks on the brain Thursday night at the administrative committee meeting.

LPOSD talks levy options

SANDPOINT — The Lake Pend Oreille School Board sought the most bang for the community’s buck Tuesday when members discussed possibilities for a two-year supplemental levy.

A Kick in the Grass - Fall soccer season ends in style for local teams

Strikers U13 boys

Is the Maddux case one of entrapment?

Is the Maddux case entrapment?

The bottom line is one of fairness

I have been told that this development is going to have 1,200 units and more than 3,000 residents. Is this really what is going to be, or is this just hype for detractors? If so, how long in our present economy will such happen: 5 years, 10 years, or 20?

Zuberbuhler, Kosse join D.A. Davidson

SANDPOINT —  Jim Zuberbuhler and Dee Kosse have joined the D.A. Davidson & Co. office in Sandpoint.

Scott, Nielsen and Rich prevail in general election

SANDPOINT — Republicans Mike Nielsen and Lewie Rich won their races for county commission seats, while Clerk Marie Scott was the only Democrat to prevail in Bonner County.

Return purloined assets to Steele and his family

I don’t know if attorney Edgar Steele is guilty of murder-for-hire or not, but something smells about the way this case has unfolded so far.

Two injured in crash with semi

SANDPOINT — Two people were injured Wednesday afternoon after the car they were in collided with a tractor-trailer on Fifth Avenue north of Larch Street.

James Delbert DeLaVergne, 84

James Delbert DeLaVergne, 84, passed away on Monday, Nov. 1, 2010, in Sandpoint, Idaho.

All good things will run downhill, right?

I’m not sure I understand the new meaning of conservative. These conservatives want everything controlled by big corporations or the religious right, no protection or oversight by government agencies. They seem to want government intervention in only areas that they approve. A doctor and patient’s right  to choose what procedure is in the patient’s  best interest based on religious beliefs of someone else. 

Loren R. Wittrock, 72

Loren R. Wittrock, 72, of Clark Fork, Idaho, died Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2010, at his home.

Family brings cozy comfort to K2 Inn

SANDPOINT — Weary travelers seeking a place to lay their head have new recourse when the K2 Inn reopens its doors this month.

Bed tax gets thumbs up

PONDERAY — The city of Ponderay gave a loud and pronounced “yes” to the bed tax Tuesday, passing the measure with a three to one majority.

Donald Lee 'Bud' Newton, 83

Donald Lee “Bud” Newton, 83, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 31, 2010, in Sandpoint, Idaho.

Holiday spirit arrives early at BGH

Every November, Bonner General Hospital rings in the holiday season early with its annual Santa’s Workshop arts and crafts fair.

Focus on safety when it comes to hunting

Last week I was talking to some of the local guys at Co-Op and the subject of this year’s hunting plans for the group came up.

GOP official presses absentee issue

SANDPOINT — An 11th-hour attempt to keep Bonner County elections officials from opening absentee ballots prior to Tuesday’s general election has come up short.

Nielsen, Rich win commission seats

Scott retains clerk's post

SANDPOINT — Republicans Mike Nielsen and Lewis Rich easily claimed wins over their Democratic challengers for seats on the Bonner County commission.

Sports program teaches skills, values for life

SANDPOINT — In an era of sports with trash talking, win-at-all-cost mentalities and fights on the field, it’s no wonder that 70 percent of U.S. children playing organized sports will quit by age 13, and never play again. Sandpoint kids and families, believing that sports can be a positive experience, are participating in an unconventional youth sports league which teaches that the process of competition is just as important as the outcome.

Dawgs take down Steelers to bring home 2010 SYSA title

SPOKANE — On a cool Spokane night at Dwight Merkle Stadium the Sandpoint junior tackle 8th grade football team did something no other team has been able to do, beat the mighty Shadle Steelers.

Bonner County election results

http://www.co.bonner.id.us/Clerk/ElectionResults.htm

County election results

Here are the final county results from the Nov. 2 elections in Bonner County. Read the Daily Bee in print and online for complete results and analysis.

Name five businesses who have opened here

I’m curious: I have heard about 80 new businesses that have joined Sandpoint. Name me five.

Children's taekwondo and self defense class offered

SANDPOINT — A children’s self defense course, taught by Sandpoint Taekwondo, begins its first session of the winter on Tuesday, Nov. 9, from 3:15 to 4 p.m. at Sandpoint Taekwondo (675 Kootenai Cutoff Road, in the Wal-Mart Shopping Center). 

Schools set parent-teacher conferences

SANDPOINT — Some students will be praised and others grounded, but either way, Sandpoint High School parent-teacher conferences stand to completely disrupt social schedules next week.

Let's keep the games fun, safe for both sides

On Oct. 21, I had the opportunity to come to Sandpoint to watch my son play football.

Take stand now to stop bypass graffiti

Now that the bypass is finally showing some semblance of shape, I wonder how long it will be before our local idiot graffiti clowns will start defacing the concrete and metal structures.

Susan Margaret D'Aoust, 71

Susan Margaret D’Aoust, 71, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2010, in Clark Fork, Idaho.

12 indictments, 12 innocent pleas

SANDPOINT — Twelve people indicted by a Bonner County grand jury on a variety of offenses ranging from drug distribution to criminal gang recruitment entered not guilty pleas on Monday.

Hearing set on code changes

SANDPOINT — The Bonner County Planning & Zoning Commission is considering a proposal to make permanent an emergency ordinance that grants time extensions to landowners and developers who are facing financial hardships.

Jesse Richard Bennett, 96

Jesse Richard Bennett, 96, of Careywood,, Idaho died on Friday, Oct. 29, 2010, at his home.

Wayne Gunter has served area well

There has been a lot of hub-bub in this town lately with the surprise retirement of long-time director Wayne Gunter from the East Bonner County Library. There have been so many word since spoken of his service and dedication to our library as well as questions as to the timing of his retirement and the reason. A letter was written to the editor of this paper and many comments on the Daily Bee blog about those letters.

Flashing light needed to warn of moose

Regarding the guardrail on Highway 200, I would like to make one additional point. — five years ago I came with in a second or two of T-boning a moose south of Salmon Creek Road. This has happened twice.

Karl Reed Walker, 87

Karl Reed Walker, 87, Post Falls, Idaho, passed away on Oct. 30, 2010, at home from natural causes.

Cow's slaughter was inappropriate

One day in early October, most of Sandpoint Charter High School’s students went on a field trip. A cow was introduced, shot dead, and disemboweled and dismembered with a chainsaw. Those students who could stomach the event stayed and played with the cow’s bloody organs. Those who could not stomach the event were taken back to the high school by a teacher who was openly irritated at missing out on the remaining “fun.”

Community facility would benefit us all

With the end of the growing season and the harvest in many are canning the fruits of their labors — difficult for many with limited resources, electricity, small kitchens and supplies.