Ellington

Bernice Lewis celebrates big birthday

SANDPOINT — Bernice Lewis has done a lot of living for a 25-year-old.

Former Bulldog helps MSU Northern post win streak

SANDPOINT — Former Sandpoint basketball standout Ben Mitchell scored a season-high 17 points recently to help the Montana State Northern Lights earn a 60-57 win over Westminster in a Frontier Conference men’s basketball game.

Caribou coordination resumes at Priest Lake

COOLIN — Bonner County commissioners and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service resumed coordination talks Tuesday on designation of critical habitat for woodland caribou.

State moves to condemn land for new bridge

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Transportation Board has initiated condemnation proceedings against two landowners to secure right of way for a new bridge over Trestle Creek on Highway 200.

Chamber forum offers tips on tough talks with aging parents

SANDPOINT — Tough talks with aging parents will be the focus of next week’s Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce general membership luncheon.

Fragoso helps Oscars shine Sunday

Five Questions is weekly feature highlighting community members that are often seen but rarely heard. The mini-interviews aim to bring out the personal side of these individuals with details about their work and personal lives.

Assault case is resolved

SANDPOINT — A peculiar felony assault case drew to an anticlimactic close on Monday.

Louis Marshall elected 2012 IPAA president

BOISE – Louis Marshall, Prosecuting Attorney for Bonner County, was elected last week to serve as the president by the board of directors for the Idaho Prosecuting Attorney Association.

Price of oil determined on the world market

With gasoline prices up, the usual suspects are charging that oil companies and speculators are manipulating the market, and no doubt there will soon be demands for congressional hearings in which oil company execs are forced to answer inane questions from preening, grandstanding congressmen. It’s all a P.T. Barnum spectacle of course, meant to create the illusion that Congress is “doing something” about oil prices and, when it’s over, the big top is taken down and everyone goes home.

Short story? The city needs to pave road

It surely would be nice if the city of Sandpoint could do something about “mud hole” Short Street.

Dillon leads Bulldogs with third-place finish at state

SANDPOINT — There may be strength in numbers, but the Sandpoint wrestling team proved that quality will always trump quantity at the state wrestling tournament.

Let's follow the law for nation's forests

Brad Smith of the Idaho Collaboration League and his cohorts want us to “avoid gridlock” and “avoid the conflict approach” when commenting on the forest plans of the Kootenai and Idaho Panhandle national forests. These forests could receive tens of millions of dollars over the next decade to boost timber production and “restore” the forests. Sound familiar? The Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Act of 2009 is funding the Kootenai Valley Resource Initiative and the Clearwater Basin Collaborative.

Alarms raised over coal train traffic

SANDPOINT — Lake Pend Oreille Waterkeeper and the Sierra Club are hosting a forum Thursday to raise awareness of a plan that could dramatically increase coal train traffic through Bonner County.

Curve plan moves ahead

SANDPOINT — The Curve project is moving full speed ahead with the council’s approval of a memorandum of understanding between the city and Idaho Transportation Department.

New retail ideas pop up downtown

SANDPOINT – They call it “pop-up” retailing and in cities across the U.S., it’s becoming a hot national trend. The concept makes especially good sense from an economic development standpoint, since it allows entrepreneurs and start-up businesses to test new product ideas without the initial burden of carrying a building lease or keeping a large inventory on hand.

How much of an effort do you put into buying locally?

Third trial looming for Jacquot

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County attorney is slated to be retried a third time in San Diego on allegations that he carried on a sexual relationship with an underage girl.

Dillon, Lockey advance to semis at state

POCATELLO — Senior Peyton Dillon (120 pounds) and junior Matt Lockey had stellar first days at the 4A state wrestling tournament Friday at Holt Arena, advancing to the semis and leading the Bulldogs to an 11th place team finish among 26 teams after day one.

Region once hooked on commercial fishing

(It was on Sept. 30, 2000, that Erik Daarstad and I met with Bob Selle in his home to interview him for the “Sandpoint Centennial” movie. One area he enjoyed talking about was fishing. Today, Bob shares in his own words about fishing for whitefish. In his way of speaking, them became ’em, because often became ’cause and anything to be emphasized was done with a “yeah” or, if very important, “yeah, -yeah.” Bob Selle died at his Sunnyside home on Sept. 1, 2004, at the age of 88.)

City doubles back on policy

SANDPOINT — The Public Works Committee is due for another crack at the snow and ice removal policy before the City Council makes a decision on the issue.

Woman facing felony charge

SANDPOINT — A Careywood woman is facing a felony charge for allegedly threatening a neighbor with a pistol during a dispute last fall.

Mel Dick honored as chamber's top volunteer

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce has selected Mel Dick as February’s Volunteer of the Month in recognition of his service to the community.

Wampus Cats win playoff opener

CLARK FORK — Zack Klein scored five of his game-high 20 points in a 15 second span of the third quarter, helping break open a surprisingly close game and propelling the Wampus Cats to a 43-31 win over Mullan in the 1A Region 1, Division II boys basketball tournament opener on Tuesday night in Clark Fork.

IFG cautiously optimistic on fisheries

SANDPOINT — Getting us back to Kansas from Oz was world-renowned fishing expert Mike Hansen’s analogy for the goal of reviving the kokanee population and restoring the world-class trophy rainbows trout to Lake Pend Oreille at Wednesday night’s “state of the lake”address.

Deputy honored for heroic acts

SANDPOINT — Bonner County Sheriff’s Deputy Jeremy Deal is being commended for helping to save the lives of a Ponderay family who were trapped by a structure fire last month.

SHS wrestlers ready for state

SANDPOINT — Eight Sandpoint wrestlers, including three with seeds, will be vying for a state medal today when the 5A/4A/3A/2A state wrestling tournament kicks off this morning at Holt Arena.

Murder suspects waive hearings

SANDPOINT — Two accessories in the first-degree murder of Michael Wyatt Smith are waiving their rights to preliminary hearings.

Defending barbaric conduct 'Un-American'

I read a letter to the editor recently about it being “un-American” to dictate to another person that they should not be able to terminate an inconvenient pregnancy. The core of this person’s argument was that one person’s religious beliefs shouldn’t be pushed on others. OK, for the sake of argument let’s look at it from a humanistic view, judging proper humanistic conduct according to the basis of reason, ethics, and justice.

Council OKs replat for affordable housing parcel

SANDPOINT — The low-income housing development planned for a vacant lot northeast of Super 1 is back on track after last Wednesday’s City Council meeting.

Ruling flattens Mosquito Bay court action

SANDPOINT — A 2nd District judge is swatting down a court action the Mosquito Bay Fen Preservation Association filed to thwart the controversial expansion of a housing development at Priest Lake.

It's about the survival of capitalism, folks

The election this year is about how we want to live as citizens here in America. It’s not about contraception, same sex marriage, race issues, or Newt’s previous wife. It’s not about the smear campaign going on all sides of the Republican primary process, muddying the waters for voters looking for answers to our present calamities and uncertain future. It’s about our freedom and the survival of capitalism as a way of life. It’s about the American dream our parents fought for in two world wars and most people on the planet would gladly trade their present life to realize. We live in a truly free country, but its changing … fast.

Extremists need to look at the facts

The opinion, “Sandpoint is facing a ‘coal hard truth,’ ” (Daily Bee, Feb. 12) seems to be long on opinion and short on fact.

Wampus Cats look to extend season with victory tonight

CLARK FORK — After a season that featured some tough losses against  bigger schools, the Wampus Cat boys are hoping the seasoning from a tough schedule pays off tonight when they host Mullan in the 1A Region 1, Division II tournament.

Focus tightens in deadly crash

SANDPOINT — Over-correction and excessive speed are identified as contributing circumstances in a chaotic pileup on U.S. Highway 95 that killed one motorist and injured two others.

Kodiak receives Brazilian certification

SANDPOINT — Quest Aircraft Company, manufacturer of the next generation Kodiak, is pleased to announce that it has received full certification from Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Authority.

Kirscher, Olin named to all-league team

SANDPOINT — Senior Maggie Kirscher and sophomore Hailey Olin carried the scoring load for Sandpoint all season, so it came as little surprise when the pair was named to the 4A All-Inland Empire League girls basketball team on Monday, as voted on by the league’s coaches.

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The quick brown fox jumps over the zippy fence

Firefighters tackle tower for good cause

SANDPOINT — The most grueling physical endurance test of the year is right around the corner for Sandpoint firefighters Clint Frank, Britain Whitley and Allo Pucci. 

Come join the spell-abration at annual adult bee

It seems everybody has a spelling bee memory.

Northland bringing fiber optic to downtown

SANDPOINT — Northland Communications is aiming to give downtown businesses a serious boost in bandwidth.

Women's heart attacks are often misdiagnosed

One woman said she had terrible pains in her legs. She thought she was developing varicose veins. Another woman said that she felt tired and had trouble catching her breath, but blamed it on a new exercise routine. A third woman complained of a stomachache and was munching down antacids. These women were having heart attacks.

County designates road right of way

SANDPOINT — Bonner County commissioners quickly and without discussion unanimously moved Tuesday to dedicate land at the southern fringe of the sheriff’s office for a future city street.

Honor the women of wisdom in your life

I’ll never forget the moment last year when Myrt Burnett learned that she had been selected as a Woman of Wisdom.

Defense seeks hearing on witnesses

SANDPOINT — A pressing question in bizarre felony assault case could be answered next week.

Brewery owners seek change in ownership laws

BOISE (AP) — A Sandpoint legislator has introduced a bill that would lift restrictions on Idaho brewers building a second brewery or owning a bar.

Heffner books time with FOL

FAA restoring funding to Sandpoint Airport

SANDPOINT — A dark cloud that has lingered over Sandpoint Airport for several years is finally starting to break up.

'Hard work is starting to pay off' for Feist

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint native Chris Feist ran his Mixed Martial Arts professional record to 3-0 on Saturday, scoring a unanimous decision win over over Sean Ward as part of the Xtreme Knockout 14 fight card in Arlington, Texas.

Squatters' rights should be held close to throne

The county jail can be anywhere in the county but the sheriff’s office has to be in the city limits of the county seat. When the county purchased the property for the hoosegow, it wanted the sheriff on site and invited the city to annex the property, of which then-Mayor Ron Chaney was more than happy to oblige, along with trying to annex half the rest of the county, bless his heart.

Sarabeth seeks extras for music video

SANDPOINT — The band Sarabeth has always had a close relationship with Sandpoint and its residents.

Take deep breath, relax and turn off the radio

Peter Heraper said in his letter (Daily Bee, Feb. 16) “...yes, ‘we’ have elected to the highest office in the land a cunning African American, if only to show others we are not racists. You both mention God, our current sly president claims that title.” Mr. Heraper has been “heraping” for years in the Bee, sometimes thoughtfully. But these comments about President Obama give credence to the view that the problem for many is that Obama is black, or perhaps worse, half-white. Mr. Heraper sounds like one more angry old white man. He, and others like him, should take a deep breath, turn off Rush Limbaugh, relax and await the Apocalypse in gentle repose. They have earned it.

Legislature seeing activity steadily grow

Greetings from Boise at the close of week six of the 61st Legislative session. Activity here has been steadily growing, and we are all hopeful that this may be the halfway mark of this session. I have been working on a number of bills ranging from school sports event concussion laws to legislative ethics reform. There are, however, some issues that are very ripe at the moment and their outcomes will affect the future activities and management of large tracts of land right here in Bonner and Boundary counties.

Racing to find a cure for cystinosis

24 Hours for Hank set for March 30-31

SANDPOINT — Like most kids these days, Henry Sturgis keeps a very busy schedule. And like most moms, Tricia Sturgis stays busy shuttling him from one place to another.

Suspect sold SUV after fatal shooting

SANDPOINT — A woman charged in connection with the slaying of a 19-year-old from Hope last year sold one of the vehicles suspected of being used to carry out the crime.

Support of residents, community amazing

A year ago, my husband, Rick and I flew to Florida to take a cruise. Our lives were turned upside down when he suffered a serious stroke. We were in Florida for four-and-half months before we were able to get him home on a medical escort. I want to thank the many people who supported us through this difficult time. Sandpoint is an amazing community.

Bonner County parties announce caucus dates

SANDPOINT — Idaho voters won’t see Democratic or Republican candidates for president on the primary ballot this May.

Bulldogs looking to extend season tonight

SANDPOINT — The season is on the line tonight when No. 3 seed Sandpoint heads south to face No. 2 seed Lakeland in the loser-out game of the 4A Region 1 boys basketball tournament.

Council votes to swap camp

Armed with all the necessary board approvals after months of discussions and public meetings, the Inland Northwest Council of Boy Scouts will begin negotiating the details of a land swap with a luxury developer, a scout official confirmed Thursday.

Selle shares tales of early-day ice harvests

Sandpoint Furniture/Carpet One, home of The Ponderay Design Center and Selkirk Glass & Cabinets (208-263-5138), sponsors this column.

Wampus Cats eliminated from state tournament

NAMPA — Here was the good news for Clark Fork: The Wampus Cats held Richfield to only four points in the second quarter and three in the fourth quarter.

Priest River falls to undefeated Marsh Valley

MIDDLETON — Fatigue looked to play a factor for the Spartans, who went six-for-38 from the field and turned the ball over 24 times on the way to a 54-34 semi-final loss to Marsh Valley at the 3A state girls championships in Middleton.

Tort claim filed over accident

SANDPOINT — A Sagle man who was injured when a Bonner County Road & Bridge grader allegedly struck his pickup truck last year is seeking up to a half-million dollars in damages from the county.

Sandpoint stages 'Chairlift Pitch' contest for entrepreneurs

SANDPOINT — Attention entrepreneurs: If you’re looking to take your outdoor, recreation or hospitality business to the next level, then a pioneering new competition could be your ticket.  Make that, your lift ticket. 

CIT program fights stigmas, offers hope

PONDERAY — Bonner County sheriff’s Deputy Joseph Scholten admits that it can be difficult to get excited about the prospect of lengthy on-the-job training programs.

Fishery changes mulled on Priest, Upper Priest

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Department of Fish & Game is considering changing its fishery management plans for Priest and Upper Priest lakes.

Olin's big night not enough against Bears

MOSCOW — Jackson Olin had a stellar night offensively, but poor team free throw shooting proved costly, as the Bulldogs fell 67-61 to Moscow in the second round of the 4A Region 1 boys basketball tournament Thursday night at the Bear Den.

Big future in store for 'Charlie'

SANDPOINT — Charlie is on the move.

Wampus Cats fall to No. 1 ranked Blue Devils in opener

NAMPA — If Clark Fork was nervous to start the 1A Division II state tournament on Thursday, it sure didn’t show, as Celeste Komanec and Jessica Driver each drained two 3-pointers in the first quarter to get Clark Fork going early.

Pavey 'plays like MVP' in Spartans' double OT win

MIDDLETON — Steffie Pavey summoned her ‘inner-Lin,’ scoring all nine of the Spartans overtime points and leading Priest River in a 50-48 double-overtime win to start the 3A girl’s state championships at Middleton High.

Informed decisions vital in property taxes

There are several items that we felt the taxpayers may need more information about in order to make informed decisions that can affect their property taxes.

Bulldogs ready for round three with Bears

SANDPOINT — The first two 4A North match ups between the Bulldogs and Bears were mostly even games, until Moscow was able to ride two big second half runs to 13 and 14 point victories.

Yes, the inmates have taken over the asylum

Yes, Ms. Finney, the inmates have taken over the D.C. asylum. And Mr. Tanner, yes, “we” have elected to the highest office in the land a cunning African American, if only to show others we are not racists. You both mention God, our current sly president claims that title. He has single-handedly, without three-fourths of our states’ ratification, changed the First Amendment of the bill of Rights.

Books needed for reading program

Children, ages 8-18, whose families are involved in child protection court cases often attend hearings. Being in court can be scary for kids.

Wampus Cats looking to 'put pieces together' at state

CLARK FORK — Welcome to the 1A Division II girls state basketball tournament Clark Fork, your reward is facing defending state champion, top-ranked and undefeated Dietrich Blue Devils in the first round

Avista Utilities seeks decrease in gas rates

Avista on Monday filed Purchased Gas Cost Adjustment requests with the utility commissions in Washington and Idaho to reduce overall natural gas prices by 6.4 percent and 6 percent respectively, to be effective March 1.

Prison ordered in vehicular assault case

SANDPOINT — A Ponderay man is being imprisoned for up to a year for hitting a bar bouncer with his vehicle during a drunken episode in Sandpoint last fall.

Pair killed in rollover crash

NEWPORT — Two Priest River residents were killed and a third was injured in a rollover crash on U.S. Highway 2 in Pend Oreille County on Tuesday night.

Sandpoint upholds right-of-way requirement

But road likely won’t impact fairgrounds

SANDPOINT — Bonner County’s hail Mary pass found no receivers on the City Council on Wednesday.

City examines South Boyer parking woes

SANDPOINT — Business and residential priorities butted heads at the regularly scheduled Administration Committee meeting this month.

Food bank celebrates move to new location

SANDPOINT — Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce is celebrating the Bonner Community Food Center’s new home.

Time running out on grants

SANDPOINT — Time is running out for the city to take advantage of an energy efficiency grant won in 2009.

Preliminary hearings set in shooting

SANDPOINT — Day-long preliminary hearings are tentatively set for three Bonner County residents implicated in the slaying of a 19-year-old from Hope.

Pregnancy is a time for changes and choices

Pregnancy is a sacred experience. From the moment the test turns positive, even though the embryo is too tiny to see, there are dramatic changes happening in a woman’s body. She may feel tired, develop sensitivity to certain smells and tastes, and experience nausea to name a few. Emotionally at that moment she is becoming a mother and her heart is opening in a new way.

Cardiac rehabilitation can be key to longevity

In 1987, he had his first heart attack followed by a record seven-artery bypass for the hospital, the surgeon and, obviously, him. Overweight and with cholesterol out of control, George Lee Congleton was told that he better change his ways or put his affairs in order.

Schwartz shoots Bulldogs past Hawks in playoff opener

RATHDRUM — Lakeland used a box-an-one defense in an attempt to slow down Jackson Olin, Sandpoint’s high-scoring senior guard.

All Ten Commandments have to be honored

I want to add to Steve Tanner’s letter in the Feb. 7 Daily Bee.

Miners run past Wampus Cats

CLARK FORK — Clark Fork head coach Corey Vogel felt his team played well Monday night in a 73-40 loss to Wallace, but the Miners simply had too much speed and firepower in a North Star League tilt at Clark Fork High School.

Love of youth, sports drives Albertson

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint native Tom Albertson has spent more than a quarter century as a teacher, coach and administrator at SHS, including the last four years as athletic director. Prior to that he was an SHS student, and lettered in football, baseball and track.

Dictating others' beliefs is simply un-American

Recently there was a letter published concerning abortion and how the United States is a country that needs to obey their particular version of God. While I’m not interested in opening the can of worms regarding specific gods we should believe in, I do have to address the issue of abortion.

Shelter seeks adoptions for older dogs

PONDERAY — This Valentine’s Day season, couples, singles and families alike are spreading some love by adopting a four-legged friend in need.

Technology helps keep track of Capitol events

When I was first elected to the Idaho Senate in 1996, I remember how difficult it was for people at home to keep track of what was happening at the Capitol during the three months or so that the legislature met every year.

City might ease sidewalk code for snow removal

SANDPOINT — The city’s policy on sidewalk snow removal could become less harsh if some city officials have their way.

Community Meal celebrates 20 years

Sandpoint's Barbara Blood stirs a pot of her homemade chicken soup in preparation for the weekly Community Meal at the United Methodist Church. This week marks the 20th anniversary of the free meal and her soup has been one of the favorite menu items for that entire time. (Photo by DAVID GUNTER)

Council taking up county's appeal

SANDPOINT — The City Council is scheduled to take up Bonner County’s request to waive a development requirement to dedicate a road right of way through the fairgrounds or sheriff’s complex.

Sizzling Panthers run wild over Wampus Cats

CLARK FORK — Bryan Smith and John Simon combined for 32 points to lead the hot-shooting Panthers to a 78-36 win over Clark Fork Friday night in nonleague boys basketball in Clark Fork

Woman sentenced for false rape claim

SANDPOINT — A Priest River woman has been sentenced for falsely claiming to police that she was raped by her former employer last year.

Old P-51's 'attack' on town flies into history

(Last week, I had a picture in the paper of an old P-51 Mustang. I received several calls from people with questions about the plane. I recalled that Don Johnson was a member of the class that took an aviation course back in 1946, so I gave him a call. Here, in his own words, is Don’s story of the P-51 and the men who took the aviation class.)

Ponderay glimpses traffic options

City’s residents offer feedback to circulation study

PONDERAY — Residents got a glimpse Thursday night into the future of the city’s traffic.

Suspect seeks to withdraw plea

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man who is awaiting sentencing in a methamphetamine trafficking case is considering whether to withdraw his plea.

Robinson named 145th Brigade Support Battalion commander

SANDPOINT — Ryan Robinson’s recent life has has been a balancing act.

Capurso seeks House seat

SANDPOINT — Boundary County businesswoman Donna Capurso formally announced her candidacy Thursday for a seat in Idaho’s House of Representatives.

What's local? City ponders policy changes

SANDPOINT — Although buying local remains a priority for city officials, frugality is just as important in this economy.

Sandpoint rifle team fourth in Spokane Postal Shoot league

SANDPOINT — Yankee catching great Yogi Berra once said about baseball “90 percent of this game is half mental.”

Timberwolves down Bulldogs on Senior Night

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint senior Jackson Olin and Lake City sophomore Justin Pratt waged a first half scoring duel, before the Timberwolves rode a hot-shooting second half to a 72-40 win over the Bulldogs in nonleague boys basketball Thursday night at Les Rogers Court.

Nelson is honored as chamber's top volunteer

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce has honored Marcella Nelson as January’s Volunteer of the Month for her service to the community.

County objects to minimum level on Cocolalla Lake

SANDPOINT — Bonner County commissioners are recommending against the setting of a minimum level for Lake Cocolalla unless further study of the request is conducted.

Paul is the only vote who can beat Obama

Ron Paul supporters, you know they’re Ron Paul or nothing. Thus making it almost impossible for whoever the Republican nominee would be to get the votes needed to beat Obama

Obama is gun owners' most dangerous enemy

Obama has spent his entire career seeking to eliminate our right to keep and bear arms. His record proves it.

Broadsword announces BOCC bid

SANDPOINT — State Sen. Joyce Broadsword announced Wednesday she will seek the Republican nomination for the District 1 seat on the Bonner County commission.

Curve plan taking shape

SANDPOINT — The city is preparing to complete another step in the road to getting the U.S.-2 Curve realignment on the map.

Obama is really the 'occupy' president

I was raised in Sandpoint and, daily, read the Daily Bee. Sandpoint people will always very special in my mind.

Sandpoint to form vacation rental advisory board

SANDPOINT — After discussing the problem of vacation rental tax dodgers for several months, city officials are turning to the community for input.

Chamber forum targets data protection

SANDPOINT — The protection of proprietary information will take center stage at Thursday’s Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce luncheon.

Warriors take down Wampus Cats in NSL hoops tilt

CLARK FORK — Greg Boudousquie stuffed the stat sheet with 10 points, 13 rebounds and three assists to lead Clark Fork, but 17 second half points from Kootenai’s Graden Myhre proved the difference as the Warriors downed the Wampus Cats 57-50 Tuesday night in North Star League basketball in Clark Fork.

Vaccine could offer help against the pain of shingles

It felt like a hundred thousand needles were poking me on the head. Starting at the crown of my scalp to my hairline there was an extraordinary itch that hurt like the devil when I tried to scratch it. But, there was nothing to see when I parted my hair to look.

Evaluation sought in CWC theft

SANDPOINT — Sentencing is being delayed for a Bonner County woman who pleaded guilty to embezzling from Coldwater Creek so she can undergo a mental health evaluation

Dillon, Dunton lead Bulldog wrestlers past Timberwolves

COEUR d’ALENE — Peyton Dillon (120 pounds) and Lewis Dunton (125 pounds) each picked up two wins to lead the ever-improving Sandpoint wrestling team to a split with 5A Lewiston and Lake City on Tuesday in a tri-match at Coeur d’Alene.

McLaughlin new head FB coach for Bonners Ferry

SANDPOINT — Feeling like he was ready to be a head football coach, former Sandpoint defensive coordinator and assistant head coach Casey McLaughlin was named the new head football coach at Bonners Ferry High School on Monday.

Board mulls Cocolalla Lake level issue

SANDPOINT — Bonner County commissioners are resuming discussions today about its position on a proposed legislative resolution which seeks to establish a minimum lake level for Cocolalla Lake

ASAP# 4187539

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE 

We must once again honor and obey God

Jan. 22, 2012, marked another year of legalized abortion in America. Nearly 50 million have been killed in the slaughter of the unborn. One local pastor accurately described the ruling of Roe v. Wade on Jan. 23, 1973, as the time “that a millstone was hung around the neck of Uncle Sam and Lady Liberty.”

Johnson keeping order in the court

Five Questions is a chance to highlight community members who are often seen but rarely heard. The feature seeks to bring out the personal side of these individuals with details about their work and home lives. Ask your own questions online at www.bonnercountydailybee.com.

'Pop-up retail' finds local home

SANDPOINT — For shoppers and sellers alike, the fun and festivity of an open market brings plenty of advantages in tow.

Murdock is appointed deputy prosecutor

SANDPOINT — Katie Murdock has been sworn in as a Bonner County deputy prosecutor.

Guess who's in the lobbyists' pockets?

Idahoans are dying every day from smoking related diseases. In Washington state, the cigarette tax is more than $3 a pack. In Idaho it is only 57 cents.

Officials are supposed to be our servants

Egypt is refusing to allow some of our people to leave Egypt, probably preparatory to slapping some false arrest charges on them. In the meantime, though the U.S. has a $23 trillion national debt, we have been giving Egypt $1.5 billion a year. It makes you think the inmates have taken over the insane asylum.

Theft suspect avoids prison

SANDPOINT — The victims of a years-long embezzlement case said the criminal charges against their former friend and employee could have been avoided with one thing — honesty.

Propane industry should be regulated

Although I am generally a follower of caveat emptor (buyer beware), I am pretty comfortable saying that the problem I have was not a mistake on the part of the propane distributor I use.

First quarter costly as Wampus Cats girls fall

CLARK FORK — Brocklynn Thornton posted a double-double with 10 points, 10 boards and four assists, but a 19-4 first quarter proved costly as the Wampus Cat girls fell 47-32 to Stillwater Christian on Saturday night in nonleague action at Clark Fork High School.

Residents are invited to city conversation

The first Tuesday in January was the start of my monthly conversations with Sandpoint residents.

KRFY prepares for a new year of broadcasting

SANDPOINT — In its first year of broadcasting, 88.5 KRFY Panhandle Community Radio has under gone some turbulent times.

Spotlight shines on Sandpoint Onstage

SANDPOINT — The fate of local theatre has ebbed and flowed over the past 40 years, as giddy periods of activity were interspersed with gloomy times when the stage went dark.

Bulldogs fall to Moscow

SANDPOINT — The one-two punch of Derek Pennington and Lane Brooks, who combined for 35 points, helped Moscow control the second half of a 64-50 win over Sandpoint in 4A Inland Empire League basketball Saturday at Les Rogers Court.

Health care legislation hurts our less fortunate citizens

The American Healthcare Act, also know as “Obamacare,” discriminates against our less fortunate citizens.

Redistricting map has big impact in area

In Idaho, a bipartisan redistricting commission is tasked with creating 35 new legislative districts based on the 2010 Census figures.

Klein drops in 24 in Wampus Cat loss

CLARK FORK — Junior shooting guard Zack Klein poured in 24 points, including four 3-pointers, but a cold start proved too much to overcome as the Clark Fork boys fell 59-50 to Stillwater Christian on Saturday in a nonleague game in Clark Fork.

ITD scrapes aside bypass plowing rumor

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Transportation Department is pushing aside another rumor about why the Sand Creek Byway isn’t completely open yet.

Missing puppy is now safe at home

Well, the miracle happened. I received a call from a wonderful couple from up by Bonners Ferry, who responded to an ad I placed regarding lost dog Hannah. They had found her only a few minutes after the accident occurred — she hopped right in their car and they had kept her safe in their home.

Plans for caribou sow conflict in Northwest

COOLIN (AP) — Woodland caribou, rarely-seen creatures that with their antlers stand as tall as a man, are struggling to survive in the United States, precariously occupying one remote area of the Northwest as a final toehold in the Lower 48.

Prison ordered in meth case

SANDPOINT — A Vay man who pleaded guilty to attempting to manufacture methamphetamine was ordered Thursday to serve up to four years in prison.

'Tolerance' piece slated for removal

SANDPOINT — The “Tolerance” sculpture at the Bonner County Courthouse is slated for removal.

Traveling here and there in historic Bonner County

One would be hard put to find a more colorful history than that of our area of the world. The other night I started a-rocking and took a mental trip all the way from Priest Lake to Sandpoint. I would like to share my meandering journey with you.

Bulldogs come up short against No. 3 Trojans (late)

POST FALLS — Ryan Schwartz scored a team-high 11 points, and Sandpoint played even with No. 3 Post Falls for three quarters, but the Trojans rode a 17-7 third quarter to a 48-41 win over the Bulldogs in nonleague boys basketball Thursday night at The Arena.

Bulldog girls looking to extend season tonight

SANDPOINT — The Bulldog girls have faced Lakeland three times this season, and each time the game was close before before a second half run would spur Lakeland to three wins.

Pavers eyed in square redesign

SANDPOINT — City officials are moving closer to a decision that will bring more green to the town square.

Trial nears in aggravated assault case

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County landowner is scheduled to be tried later this month for allegedly tearing down a house around a family whose patriarch is an adherent of the sovereign citizen movement

Arraignments set in burglary of pawn shop

SANDPOINT — A trio of Bonner County residents implicated in a break-in at a Ponderay pawn shop are scheduled to be arraigned in 1st District Court on Monday.

Registration now open for 24 Hours of Schweitzer

SANDPOINT — Registration is now open for the fourth annnual 24 Hours of Schweitzer, the all-day, all-night fundraiser held in honor of 5 year-old Hank Sturgis of Sandpoint, who has the rare, fatal disease Cystinosis that affects only 500 people nationwide.

Business consultant: Hard times also offer many opportunities

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce has welcomed Ron Wisman to the organization.

Goodman, Allen, Weindl notch pins in loss to Vikings

COEUR d’ALENE — Troy Goodman (132 pounds), Josh Allen (160) and Adam Weindl (171) registered pins for the Bulldogs, who fell 49-31 to the reigning 5A Idaho state champion Vikings in a dual on Wednesday night at Coeur d’Alene High School.

Limited plowing creates bad driving conditions

I am writing to you to voice my concern about the road conditions of Sandpoint this winter. I help deliver the paper every day and the road conditions that I deliver are terrible. I can hardly stop the car without getting stuck and the plow trucks are not doing anything about it. On Jan. 18, I passed three plow trucks driving down Boyer Avenue and Highway 95 and they all had their blades up. Shouldn’t they have been plowing? It is very dangerous and inconvenient when the snow keeps piling on the roads.

Student's name was spelled incorrectly

I want to thank you for covering the Lake Pend Oreille School District spelling bees on the education page (Jan. 24, page 3) and including the recent winners at Washington’s spelling bee.

'Eat it, sleep it, walk it, talk it'

Puailoa eager for second stint at SHS

SANDPOINT — He’s back.

Closed GOP primary is actually pretty open

SANDPOINT — Voters who cast their ballots based on the quality of individual candidates instead of party affiliation need not fear Idaho’s closed Republican primary.

'Compromise' serves as a warning to all

In reference to the article in the Bonner County Daily Bee (Jan. 24, 2012) entitled, “Shop’s expansion plan ends in compromise.”

Wampus Cats pull off NSL sweep of Tigers

MULLAN — Zack Klein and Zach Nesbitt scored 10 points apiece, and the Clark Fork boys shook off a sluggish start to earn a 37-24 win over Mullan on Wednesday night in North Star League action at the Mullan Pavillion.

Corporate 'people' have more rights

I want to thank Mitt Romney for explaining to me how corporations are people because the money goes back to people. But aren’t each of these people within these corporations guaranteed the same freedom of speech and civil rights as the right of us non-corporate people?

SPOT riders top 1,000 mark

SANDPOINT — The Selkirks-Pend Oreille Transit bus service sped past another milestone last week by giving more than 1,000 rides is seven days of operation.

Chamber welcomes TransEco Services

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed TransEco Services.

Chickenpox vaccinations can be a lifesaving shot

Most of us of a certain age, remember episodes of what were commonly called “childhood diseases.” Thanks to effective immunization, many of those viruses are no longer considered common in the U.S.

Sanctuary Seconds welcomed to chamber

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce welcomes Sanctuary Seconds to the organization.

Family feud lands on national TV show

SANDPOINT — Could the healing powers of a Howie Mandel-coordinated flash mob repair a fractured relationship?

Jury convicts Ellington in murder case

COEUR d’ALENE — A second Kootenai County jury has now found Jonathan W. Ellington guilty of second-degree murder and two counts of aggravated battery, following a re-trial of his case.

Bulldogs fall to Hawks in 4A Region 1 opener

RATHDRUM — Cieana Close shook off a first-half shoulder injury to score 11 of her 15 points in the second half to lead the second-seeded Lakeland Hawks to a 52-41 victory over the third-seeded Sandpoint Bulldogs in the first round of the 4A Region 1 girls basketball tournament Tuesday night at Hawk Court.

Lockey, Dillon lead Bulldogs in 4A North wrestling split

RATHDRUM — Led by a strong showing from Matt Lockey and Peyton Dillon, the Bulldogs split a wrestling tri-match of 4A North teams on Tuesday at Lakeland High School

Breaking up (Idaho) is hard to do

New map draws criticism

SANDPOINT — Bonner County appears to be at the losing end again of an effort to redraw legislative boundaries without cutting across county lines.