Ellington

Fury, Hislop earn post season lacrosse honors

SANDPOINT — A pair of Sandpoint Club Lacrosse players garnered All-North Idaho Lacrosse League honors this week, as voted on by the league coaches.

ITD chipping away at Icicle Cliffs

CLARK FORK — Motorists traveling on Highway 200 east of Clark Fork can expect intermittent delays in June due to work to stabilize Icicle Cliffs and improve drainage.

LPOHS hosts paranormal investigation

SANDPOINT — Is it possible that Lake Pend Oreille High School is housing more than students?

Sandpoint revises parks policy

SANDPOINT — In the interest of protecting community peace and quiet, events held in public parks will follow some new classification procedures.

The Flower Farm celebrating 20th anniversary

SANDPOINT — The Flower Farm, a family-owned greenhouse business located in the Selle Valley, is celebrating the company’s 20th anniversary.

Haden's Heart Fun Run to benefit Clark Fork senior students

CLARK FORK — Eager to keep the memory of a former student alive, and offering some of the best scenery in the region, the second Haden’s Heart 5K Fun Run will be held in Clark Fork on Thursday, July 4. The fundraising run kicks off the 4th of July festivities at 7 a.m., starting and ending at the Clark Fork Fire Department.

Bonner County faces no-opinion disclaimer on audit

Clerk refuses to sign off on audit

SANDPOINT — An independent audit of Bonner County’s finances could bear a dreaded no-opinion disclaimer.

Artists, photographers sought for art project

Did we forget you?

Taxpayers hit again on ever-ending remodel

County commissioners have, once again, approved more money for the never-ending courthouse remodel; around $54,000 this time. The $1 million project is now close to $6.5 million and that probably does not include the cost of relocating all the staff and equipment to other buildings during this lengthy process.

Three cheers for an amazing team

It has been my privilege to help coach Sandpoint varsity softball the last four months.

Sentence stands in deadly attack

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Court of Appeals is affirming the sentence imposed against paranoid schizophrenic man who went on a violent rampage in Bayview that left one person dead and three others injured.

City, ITD ponder 'no-construction' Curve alternative

Plan would divert two-way traffic onto Fifth Avenue

SANDPOINT — The future of transportation in town could rest on a Monday council meeting.

Full or Half Page Color Ad in the Bonner County Daily Bee!

http://getitnorthidaho.com/daily_deals/102149

Two injured in rollover crash

PRIEST RIVER — A Washington state man who was injured in a rollover crash on Sunday is being cited for drunken driving, according to Idaho State Police.

Westside Fire seeking input from taxpayers

DOVER — Public turnout was scant for a Westside Fire District workshop to consider raising its levy rate to improve its level of service and conduct necessary repairs of its fire-fighting equipment.

Fundraiser to benefit training for mental illness intervention

The recent, albeit-long debated, controversy about gun control often focuses on the mental health component to heinous crimes. But, it’s not just the headline making crimes that are committed by the mentally impaired. It can be your common everyday law breaking or civil disturbance. Knowing how to interact with someone in a psychiatric crisis is important for everyone in law enforcement and emergency response.

KSCO cuts ties with Boy Scouts

COEUR d’ALENE — The Kootenai County Sheriff said Friday that he is compelled to drop the department’s Boy Scouts of America charter because the organization is promoting a lifestyle that is against state law.

SHS golf team announces awards

SANDPOINT — Junior David Currie, who fulfilled his goal of playing in state, was named Most Valuable Golfer, and Anna Aylward, the lone senior on the team, was named Captain at the Sandpoint golf team’s Letterman Awards banquet recently at the Elks Golf Course.

Vacation rental plan approved

SANDPOINT — The city has a new system to keep tourism home rentals on the right side of the law.

Look to public for direction, not political parties

Since Gov. Otter has decreed “Second Amendment Month” in Idaho, perhaps we should take a closer look at this historic document.

Police uncover indoor pot grow

SANDPOINT — A routine welfare check on Wednesday ended in the arrest of a Sandpoint man for cultivating marijuana in his home.

Bulldogs announce track awards

Senior Todd Pays, who finished sixth in the shot put and 11th in the discus at state recently, won the coach’s award for throwing at the recent Bulldog track team awards banquet at SHS.

Some communication isn't progress after all

These are my thoughts on cellphones. I don’t own phone, I like my landline just fine. If I leave my home and my landline, it’s because I have other things to do which require my full attention. Leave a message and I’ll get back to you when I get home.

Community support helped SHS club soar

I wanted to personally thank everyone in the community who supported the Sandpoint High School Honor Flight Club in any way. Learning how much the veterans went through really opened my eyes, and I had a great time participating in the club.

Hair donations add up and make a difference

Mane Reflections would like to say “thank you” to all the wonderful people who generously donated their beautiful hair to a special organization — Locks of Love.

Timber sale set for watershed

Sale will raise revenue, protect against wildfire

SANDPOINT — The Little Sand Creek Watershed is set to receive a welcome grooming later this year.

Creating awareness

SANDPOINT — A rare genetic disorder has Sandpoint Junior Academy students hitting the road at the end of the month.

Lack of support on road has been frustrating

After reading the guest opinion by Dover Mayor Randy Curless (March 28), I feel compelled to offer that which I’ve experienced as a resident of Dover. The picture painted by the mayor was what I had envisioned for Dover’s future when I spent countless hours fighting the annexation by Sandpoint and hoping to be annexed by Dover instead, many years back.

Garbage turns to gold in compost pile

Festival ‘green team’ keeps waste out of the landfill

SANDPOINT — Start with a few tons of castoff paper plates and food scraps, mix it with several yards of manure and rotten hay, let it cook for two years and the result is what gardeners like to call “black gold.”

Local wins 1986 Corvette in Bulldog Nation football raffle

SANDPOINT — It’s tough to tell who the biggest winner was during the recent Bulldog Nation Raffle, which raised more than $45,000 — Sagle’s Corie Castle, or the Sandpoint football team.

Marshall: Killing was justifiable homicide

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint man who killed another man that shot him with a pistol during an altercation has been cleared of wrongdoing, according to Bonner County Prosecutor Louis Marshall.

Westside ducks questions about tax increase

DOVER — The Westside Fire District is holding public workshops to consider increasing its operating budget, but district officials declined on Friday to disclose how much of a tax hike they might seek.

Police solve costly heist

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint Police investigators made quick work of solving a burglary case in which tens of thousands of dollars worth of tools and equipment were taken, court record show.

Claim alleges sexual harassment at Sagle Fire

SANDPOINT — A Sagle Fire District firefighter is seeking $1 million in damages from the district for allegedly failing to stop a supervisor from harassing her following the demise of a romantic relationship.

Bay Trail Fun Run celebrates National Trails Day

SANDPOINT — Celebrate National Trails Day with a run along the shores of Lake Pend Oreille and Sand Creek in Sandpoint and help protect a treasured waterfront trail.

Man's death undetermined

PONDERAY — The cause of death of a Bonner County man whose skeletal remains were discovered in a wooded area cannot be determined.

Probation denied in molestation case

SANDPOINT — Probation was denied Thursday for a former Bonner County man who pleaded to molesting a 12-year-old girl in 2010.

Bulldogs land three on All-IEL baseball team

SANDPOINT — It was a tough season for the Bulldog baseball team, but some individual performances were recognized as three Sandpoint players earned a spot on the 4A All-Inland Empire League baseball team, as voted on by the league’s coaches.

CPA Pavement Services

CPA Pavement Services, Inc. is a full service Asphalt/Pavement Maintenance company.

Elks golf tourney to raise money for youth program

SANDPOINT — Attention local golfers: Get ready to tee it up for a great cause.

Ponderay receives $75,000 IDPR grant

PONDERAY — Ponderay officials are confident that a new $75,000 grant will bring the third Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail parcel within reach.

State seeks 10-year term in rape case

SANDPOINT — A Ponderay man who pleaded to drunkenly attacking a young woman and raping her is facing up to 10 years in prison.

Focus on process that's worked for eons

A letter was published in the Daily Bee on May 2, discussing marriage from a rights and equality point of view, specifically referring to gay rights. If it were simply a matter of fairness for homosexuals to be legally recognized in marriage, I suspect there would be little, if any objection. However, the law that in most places applies to one man and one woman involves considerations that go well beyond simply being fair.

Gunter, Ray grateful for voters' support

SANDPOINT — Gloria Ray and Wayne Gunter are thanking voters for electing them to the East Bonner County Library District’s board of trustees on Tuesday.

Idaho Club opens for 2013 golfing season

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Club is pleased to announce that its Jack Nicklaus Signature Course will open for play for the 2013 season starting this Friday, May 24.  

This Congress is disgusting

We all know the tax code is a disgrace; the war on drugs is a loser; our infrastructure is rotting away; industry pollutes our air, water, and soil; yes, we do need gun control; our schools are failing the students; our borders need to be secured; if it is too big to fail, it is too big; hospitals should have one price for all patients; a debt limit is asinine; we shouldn’t be locking up people in Guantanamo whom we can’t prove did anything wrong.

Obama's response to scandals astounding

Regarding (finally) some questioning even by the left-wing media on the first several of what is likely a multitude of emerging scandals, I was astounded at Obama’s replies.

Community invited to baby shower benefit

Hi! My name is Beckham Spencer Williams. I was born three months premature and weighed 1 pound, 7 ounces.

Gunter, Ray claim seats on library district board

SANDPOINT — Retired librarian Gloria Ray and retired library director Wayne Gunter cruised to lopsided wins Tuesday in the race for two seats on the East Bonner County Library District’s board of trustees.

Youngdahl wins re-election

SANDPOINT — Steve Youngdahl won re-election to the Lake Pend Oreille School Board, defeating Peter Kriz 167-42.

Bright future in store for SHS track team

SANDPOINT — Ten Bulldogs scored points at the state track and field meet last weekend, and seven of those are underclassmen who will return to anchor an emerging team next season.

Rare disease affects one in a million people

The kudo in Saturday’s Bee read, “To Dr. Wheeler, Rob, Lori and BGH emergency room staff. Thank you for the prompt, caring, gentle and professional care you gave our daughter treating the pain she was experiencing as a result of a seizure brought on by Stiff Person’s Syndrome.”

Five Bulldogs named to All-IEL softball team

SANDPOINT — It was the best season in years for the Sandpoint softball team, and the success was rewarded with five players earning a spot on the 4A All-Inland Empire League team, as voted on by the league’s coaches.

Man charged with reckless driving

SANDPOINT — Two vehicle collisions on back-to-back days resulted in the arrest of a Heron, Mont., man for reckless driving.

Crashes snarl bridge traffic

SANDPOINT — Cars backed up well into the downtown core after series of crashes on the Long Bridge slowed traffic Monday afternoon.

No new gun laws needed; enforce existing instead

No new gun laws. Instead, aggressively prosecute criminals under current federal laws. It’s not happening under Obama’s/Holder’s Justice Department.

Please do not pick up newborn fawns

A population explosion takes place in the wild around this time every year. Some newborns are already present and visible. Goslings have been out and about growing rapidly for a month now. Other species of birds have hatched young or are incubating eggs. Some bird species have yet to begin nesting. Regardless of the exact timing, most bird and mammal species will produce young in the spring and early summer. This gives the young the needed time to gain strength and size to be able to survive the challenges of winter or fall migration.

Cardio Junkies host Aspirin Rally Run

SANDPOINT — More than 60 runners worked out some of their Lost in the 50’s revelry, as the annual Aspirin Rally Run capped a busy weekend in Sandpoint on Sunday morning.

Hutchens held in contempt

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint woman being prosecuted for allegedly battering a city official talked her way into a stay at the Bonner County Jail on Monday.

KRFY readies for annual fund drive

SANDPOINT — There was a time when the outlook didn’t look nearly so shiny for Panhandle community radio station 88.5 KRFY.

Shame on you, Jerry Clemons

Jerry Clemons calling for raising tax assessments on agricultural land is absurd. His saying soil type is affecting land valuation — the soil type has not changed forever. It has not improved to justify an increase in any value.

Tyson wins Troika Triathlon

MEDICAL LAKE, Wash. — Local triathlete Steven Tyson dominated the bike and run portions of the 33rd Annual Troika Triathlon on Saturday en route to winning the half Ironman race at Medical Lake.

News of Record 4-18-13

04/18/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 755

News of Record 4-15-13

04/15/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 783

News of Record 4-23-13

04/23/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 783

News of Record 4-28-13

04/28/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 747

News of Record 4-9-13

04/09/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 783

News of Record 4-29-13

04/29/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 747

News of Record 4-13-13

04/13/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 783

News of Record 4-25-13

04/25/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 765

News of Record 4-16-13

04/16/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 747

News of Record 4-10-13

04/10/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 806

News of Record 4-20-13

04/20/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 755

News of Record 4-19-13

04/19/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 806

News of Record 4-22-13

04/22/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 747

News of Record 4-26-13

04/26/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 755

News of Record 4-8-13

04/08/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 783

News of Record 4-24-13

04/24/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 755

News of Record 4-12-13

04/12/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 814

News of Record 4-30-13

04/30/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 747

News of Record 4-21-13

04/21/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 783

Newsof Record 4-14-13

04/14/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 747

News of Record 4-17-13

04/17/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 765

News of Record 4-11-13

04/11/13 Bonner County 9-1-1 814

Kootenai crosswalk connects community

KOOTENAI — OK, so maybe it’s not an “official” crosswalk, since it doesn’t have road striping. But the flashing strobes and the iconic crossing signs have managed to do what generations of children here were never able to accomplish on their own — cross Hwy. 200 safely from Ponder Point to Kootenai Elementary School.

Legal crisis turns into moral dilemma

The county commissioners’ decision to void the inter-fund transfer loan creates a moral crisis.   

TransluSense targets tactical applications

SANDPOINT — If you were asked to think of the perfect firearm accessory, an iPhone probably wouldn’t top the list.

SPD offers unique law enforcement

As a retired CHP officer, my opinion is based on the following traffic stops within the last year.

Hero is a term that's bandied too freely

I thought a hero when I was growing up, was a person or animal that performed extraordinary acts of bravery above that which was called for.

Four vying for library board seats

SANDPOINT — Elections in Bonner County don’t get much more cordial than Tuesday’s contest for two spots on the East Bonner County Library District’s board of trustees.

Defense probing deadly Highway 95 accident

SANDPOINT — A pretrial conference in a misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter case was postponed Friday so the defense can conduct a crash reconstruction investigation.

Alamillo claims second straight state discus title

Woodward, Levora each finish second in 3,200 meters

EAGLE — While there might have been a little more drama that she wanted, at the end of the day, Sandpoint junior Nikole Alamillo defended her state title in the discus on day one Friday at the Idaho State Track and Field Championships at Eagle High School.

Charter school student earns NIC degree

SANDPOINT — As far as graduating high school students are concerned, Matisse Lovett has a major head start.

Bulldogs battle at state

BOISE — Micah Buckmiller and Alex Hon went 2-1 in boys doubles, and Megan Rockwell and Kennedy Search 2-1 in girls doubles to lead Sandpoint on day one of the 4A state tennis tournament Friday in Boise.

Wold, Kiebert advance to semis

CALDWELL — The Clark Fork girls doubles team of senior Heather Wold and junior Lyndsie Kiebert advanced to the semis on Friday during day one of the 3A state tennis tournament at Vallivue High School.

Driver in boat crash sentenced

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint man who crashed into a powerboat into a moored sailboat on Lake Pend Oreille entered a plea Wednesday to an amended charge of simple negligent operation of a vessel.

Joe English is best pick for WBCSD trustee

It’s raise your taxes time again!

Bonner County jury deadlocks in rape case

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County jury deadlocked Wednesday on a verdict in the case of a Montana man charged with rape.

Return Youngdahl as school board trustee

Vote for Steve Youngdahl to return to the Lake Pend Oreille School Board on May 21.

Doubles teams lead Bulldogs at state tourney

SHS tennis team sending nine to 4A state tourney

SANDPOINT — A lot of variables go into setting a tennis lineup for districts, and if all goes well there, at state the next weekend.

Ricin-tainted letters received in Spokane

SANDPOINT — Postal officials in the Inland Northwest are on alert after two pieces of mail postmarked in Spokane contained material that preliminarily tests showed the presence of ricin.

Gunter, Ray are best picks for library board

Vote for Wayne Gunter and Gloria Ray for library trustees.

Steve Youngdahl has earned re-election

Steve Youngdahl has done a great job as the chairman of the Lake Pend Oreille School Board, and deserves to be re-elected next week.

Select Youngdahl for LPOSD board

I support Steve Youngdahl for Lake Pend Oreille School District board trustee. He is a man of integrity and has worked very hard to be a strong community leader and drive our schools to a new level of excellence.

Ceremony honors an Idaho hero

Memorial pays tribute to Jacobson, all law officers

SANDPOINT — A U.S. Forest Service agent’s dedication to justice and familiarity with the lay of the land in Bonner County were recognized Wednes-day during a ceremony honoring law officers in Idaho who were slain in the line of duty.

Time running out on Curve options

SANDPOINT — Time is running short for the city and ITD officials to reach a consensus on the U.S. 2 Curve project.

Ray, Spagon deserve seats on library board

I would like to encourage Bonner County residents to vote for Gloria Ray and Jim Spagon for the two positions available for the East Bonner County Library board of directors.

Festival at Sandpoint announces powerhouse lineup

SANDPOINT — The Festival at Sandpoint’s 31st annual concert series is a powerhouse lineup of cutting edge artists and classic favorites.

Convicted tax cheat imprisoned

SANDPOINT — A Hope businessman was ordered Monday to serve three and half years in federal prison for withholding income taxes from debt-elimination businesses that federal prosecutors say raked in millions.

Youngdahl has the vision, leadership

For the past year the patrons of the Lake Pend Oreille School District have been the beneficiary of Steve Youngdahl’s leadership, as chairman of the school board. His commitment to providing students the opportunity for academic excellence and personal development has been rewarded with unprecedented success in student opportunities and achievement. He is a strong supporter of ideas that will improve the school district operation, ensure continued progress in staff professional development, keeping always the primary focus on student opportunities for success and achievement. He is a strong advocate of and sensitive to the practices of stewardship securing the publics’ trust and interests in the operation of their school district and the education of their children.

Democrats seek clerk's candidates

SANDPOINT — The Bonner County Democratic Party is seeking candidates to complete the balance of county Clerk Marie Scott’s term.

Spagon's experience invaluable on board

Because I’ve been on the East Bonner County Library District’s board of trustees for about six years, I’m excited to see that we have four candidates running for two seats. Too many times in previous trustee elections, there has been a lack of candidates. Now we have a great group of individuals hoping to help oversee the operation of our terrific local institution — the library.

Vote for experience; elect Ray, Gunter

Tuesday, May 21, the community will have a unique opportunity when voting for two candidates for the East Bonner County Library Board.

Bulldogs looking to do some damage at state track meet

Host of school records are in danger of falling

SANDPOINT — It’s been a stellar season for the Sandpoint track team, which will look to end the season on a high note on Friday and Saturday at the 4A state track meet at Eagle High School.

Support Gloria Ray and Jim Spagon

I am supporting Gloria Ray for election to the board of trustees of the East Bonner County Library. She will bring to the board a wealth of experience in the community and at the library, from which she has retired.

Scott announces retirement as county clerk

SANDPOINT — Bonner County’s unofficial fourth commissioner is bowing out.

Currie finishes 14th at 4A state golf tourney

MOSCOW — Sandpoint junior David Currie capped a rock-solid season by finishing 14th out of 44 players on Tuesday at the 4A state golf championships at the University of Idaho Golf Course in Moscow.

Teen pleads to reduced charge

SANDPOINT — A former Bonner County resident accused of sexually assaulting a preteen girl pleaded guilty to a vastly reduced charge of disturbing the peace, court records indicate.

Locals compete in Hershey's Track Meet

SANDPOINT — Some of the fastest youth in the area were on hand recently for the annual Hershey’s Track Meet recently at Sandpoint High School.

Sandpoint feline survives shooting

SANDPOINT — Riley, a cat owned by local couple Gregory and Natalie Larson, used up one of his nine lives Monday night.

Fundraiser is a great deal for everyone

I am used to tuning things out. I have a wife and three teen boys. And in-laws. You can do the math. So, despite my wife telling me about the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce’s Ultimate Raffle, it didn’t register. I am writing this as a public service announcement for those like me.

Wampus Cats sending four to state tennis

MOSCOW — Heather Wold and Lyndsie Kiebert went 3-0 in girls doubles to claim the championship last weekend at the 3A District tennis championships in Moscow.

You can't sugarcoat POAC's need for help

Thanks to Cameron Rasmusson and the Bee for the front page article published Wednesday, May 8. The board of directors of Pend Oreille Arts Council is eager to get the word out and hopefully find businesses and individuals who want to make sure the programs they’ve come to know and love aren’t discontinued.

Youngdahl dedicated to district, students

I have served on the Lake Pend Oreille School Board for the past nine years. During this time I have had the privilege of working with Steve Youngdahl. I have come to admire and respect his various abilities and dedication to the children of Sandpoint.

Lottery fever strikes region

SANDPOINT — Lottery fever has struck North Idaho once again.

Youngdahl has done much for district

As an interested observer, first as a parent and now as a grandparent, I would like to add my endorsement for Steve Youngdahl and what has been able to accomplish in his time on the school board.

Four Wampus Cats punch ticket to state track meet

KAMIAH — Megan Frazier clocked a 13:32 to finish third in the 3,200 on Saturday at the 1A Region 1 track meet at Kamiah High School, and the Wampus Cats qualified four athletes for the state meet.

Montana governor vetoes water degradation bill

LIBBY, Mont. — Montana Gov. Steve Bullock cited water-quality concerns and the health of aquatic life in his veto of Sen. Chas Vincent’s water degradation bill last Friday. This leaves a bumpy road for the mine-permitting process of the Montanore and Rock Creek projects.

Benefit baby shower seeks to help family

SANDPOINT — Beckham Williams has had a rough go in his first few months of life.

Residents need equal protection

How does a citizen of Bonner County receive a fair trial when a Bonner County deputy clerk conducts a traffic stop on a person in Sandpoint, uses her official government position to direct and influence a local police officer to issue a citizen citation for something more than what she perceived as a mere traffic infraction into a criminal offense? Next, to persuade the Bonner County Prosecutor’s Office to not only issue the case but demand a no plea offer in the case.

County should return surplus

Please correct me if I’m wrong. Bonner County Solid Waste had a surplus of taxpayer money of at least $3.1 million from 2011 and 2012.

Parking practices are not friendly

I stopped to pay a bill at Merwin’s Tuesday morning. Not a single car was on either side of the street. Less than five minutes afterward, I had a ticket. The ticket stated the car was not 100 percent in the white box painted on the street that designated a space.

Lifeline Resources leads dramatic turnarounds

By DAVID GUNTER

Have you already hit the beach this season?

'Guys and Dolls' wows on stage

SANDPOINT — Energetic, rollicking, bombastic, enthralling: it’s easy to bust out the adjectives for the classic musical “Guys and Dolls.”

Wahl, Woodward, Alamillo earn wins for Bulldogs girls

LEWISTON — Lani Wahl won the long jump and triple jump, Mikhaela Woodward the 3,200 and Nikole Alamillo dominated the discus, leading the Bulldog girls team to a big lead after the first day of action Friday at the 4A Region 1 track championships at Lewiston High School.

Lifelong Sandpoint resident guns for hunting title

SANDPOINT — Hunting has been a part of Amanda Lowrey’s life ever since she was big enough to keep up with her father on the trail.

Bulldogs shine at district tennis

SANDPOINT — Megan Rockwell and Kennedy Search won in straight sets at No. 1 girls doubles, leading Sandpoint on Friday during the first day of the 4A Region 1 tennis championships in Moscow.

Photographer's work picked for biennale

SANDPOINT — It’s no easy task to capture a theme as broad as the influence of weather on mankind in a single piece of artwork.

Prison ordered in sex abuse case

SANDPOINT — A 48-year-old Washington state man convicted of sexually abusing a 15-year-old girl was ordered Thursday to serve up to 12 years in prison.

'I always dreamed that I'd do it once'

Sagle runner wins age group at Bloomsday

SANDPOINT — Sagle’s Kenneth Hinds might not have finished Bloomsday 2013 amongst the Kenyans and Ethiopians at the front of the pack, but his recent performance was every bit as impressive in its own right.

Bluemer, Williams lead Bulldogs past Bears

SANDPOINT — A couple of hot bats in the middle of the order and another strong performance from their ace led the No. 2 seed Bulldogs to a 9-2 win over the No. 3 Bears on Thursday in the loser-out game of the 4A Region 1 softball tournament.

Wampus Cats geared up for district tennis tournament

CLARK FORK — Heather Wold and Lyndsie Kiebert earned the No. 1 seed in girls doubles for Clark Fork, which is competing for state berths at the district tournament today and tomorrow in Moscow.

Trial is reset in fatal crash case

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint woman’s trial for leaving the scene of a deadly crash on Highway 200 last year has been reset for July.

Comfort Keepers opens Sandpoint office

Comfort Keepers of North Idaho has opened up a new office in Sandpoint, beginning May 1 to meet the growing demand for quality in-home care services for seniors throughout the panhandle.

Convicted tax dodger faces prison term

SANDPOINT — Federal prosecutors are recommending more than six years in prison for a Hope man convicted of dodging his personal income taxes and failing to file corporate tax returns.

City's friendliness puts it on 'must visit' list

As a traveling salesman in the 1970s, a roaming hippie in the 1980s and as a restless retiree, I’ve stayed in hundreds of placed. I’m not sure if Sandpoint is the friendliest town in North America but when the subject comes up, I’m sure your little town is mentioned in the top three. I would describe Sandpoint as outrageously friendly and sublimely pretentious.

Gunter, Ray best picks for library board seats

Never before have we had two librarians running for library board positions.

New standards will help us help students

Next school year we will be implementing the new Idaho Core Standards in all of our classrooms in the Lake Pend Oreille School District. These standards are considerably higher than the previous standards Idaho had in place for mathematics and English language arts. Our teachers have been working diligently all year reviewing these new standards to prepare for implementation. Overall, we are thrilled with the greater emphasis on writing, higher level thinking skills, and application of mathematics to real world situations. We are confident these new standards will even better prepare our students for life after high school.

Bulldogs' season ends with loss to Hawks

RATHDRUM — Troy Carr went 2 for 3 with three RBIs and three runs scored as the Lakeland Hawks defeated the Sandpoint Bulldogs 16-0 in a 4A Region 1 baseball tournament loser-out game on Wednesday at Gorton Field.

Police: Suspect was at KMC for 'manic episode'

COEUR d’ALENE — A man charged with arson for an April 25 incident at Kootenai Medical Center had been taken to the hospital because he was having a “manic episode,” according to a police report released Wednesday.

POAC seeks help to get beyond economic downturn

SANDPOINT — Pend Oreille Arts Council officials are looking to the community to get past some lean years.

Think about nursing when making career choices

“What do you want to be when you grow up?” When asked that did you answer, “A nurse?” So many of us did, but we don’t know how many of us actually followed through.

Judge orders time served in battery case

SANDPOINT — A Sagle man was sentenced Monday to time served for entering another man’s home, beating him and threatening to kill him if he reported the attack to authorities.

Bulldogs take down Bears, fall to Hawks

RATHDRUM — Senior Jordan Speelmon wasted little time setting a tone in Tuesday’s 4A Region 1 softball tournament opener on Tuesday, smashing the first pitch of the game over the fence for her first home run of the season, propelling the No. 2 seed Bulldogs to a 9-5 win over No. 3 Moscow at Lakeland High School.

NSH, Samuels open Northwest Oncology

SANDPOINT — Northwest Specialty Hospital and Dr. Brian Samuels are pleased to announce the opening of Northwest Oncology.

Doubles wins lead Bulldogs to tie with Vikings

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint notched impressive wins at No. 1 doubles in both boys and girls, leading Sandpoint to a 6-6 tie with Coeur d’Alene in nonleague tennis on Tuesday at Pine St. Park and Lakeview Courts.

Highway 95 work continues

PONDERAY — Drivers, bikers and pedestrians should keep an eye out for road closures in the coming weeks as work on the U.S. 95 expansion continues.

The tourists are coming; here's how to reach them

SANDPOINT — Are you ready for the tourists?

Man pleads to lewd conduct

SANDPOINT — A Clark Fork man charged with engaging in lewd conduct with a minor pleaded guilty on Monday.

Prescribed fire program under way

SANDPOINT — The U.S. Forest Service is conducting prescribed fire operations in a number of areas in the northern Panhandle.

Vogel earns berth at state

WALLACE — Clark Fork senior Tessa Vogel shot a 123, tying for third overall and earning an automatic berth at state on Monday during the 1A Region 1 golf championships at Shoshone Golf Course.

Appeals court affirms rulings in rape case

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Court of Appeals is affirming the conviction and sentence imposed against a Bonner County man for statutory rape.

America must return to its founding principles

In the 1980s my husband and I met some Ukrainian political refugees. They were intelligent, educated people. They said their government gradually began passing laws concerning the right to have guns and religious freedom. It escalated to the point where police were bursting into people’s homes, arresting them and taking their guns. They warned us they could see the beginnings of the same thing here, and we’d better be aware, not let it happen.

Vote against gun control is vote for Constitution

It has been suggested that the “liberal wish-list” is little more than a marginal policy adjustment in gun regulations (strict complete gun registration). “And widely practiced in other Western democracies.”

Why waste time or money on bomber?

Now at taxpayers’ expense, the remaining Boston bomber’s defense team is getting a major boost according to a recent paper. They are bringing in Judy Clarke, an attorney from San Diego, to help defend this coward. This was approved by Magistrate Judge Marianne Fowler from Boston who is the same judge who said, “that this coward has to be given his rights before he can be questioned any further by the FBI.”

Review backgrounds of library board candidates

I was privileged to serve in a profession (registered nurse) that did not rely on testimonials but considered all credible evidence before making a decision. I was honored to be on the board of trustees for the East Bonner County Library (Sandpoint Library) for four years.

Currie shoots 78 to punch ticket to state

POST FALLS — Sandpoint junior David Currie broke 80 for the fourth time this season, firing a 78 under pressure to earn a spot at state and lead the Bulldogs on Monday at the 4A Region 1 golf tournament at The Links Golf Club in Post Falls.

President Obama is giving away the country

Back when I was young we didn’t have anything, just mom, dad, two brothers, a sister and me living an old log cabin overlooking Springy Point. Two more sisters and a brother came later. Except for a few pop bottles we would find in the road-ditch and sell for pennies, our living came from working.

Pair exemplified true public service

For the last 15 years that we have lived along Grouse Creek, we have counted ourselves fortunate to bare witness to this creek’s beauty as we watch the ebb and flow of the seasons.

Review hearing scheduled in theft case

SANDPOINT — A probation compliance review hearing is set for a Hope woman who pleaded guilty to diverting disability benefits for personal use while employed at Goodwill Industries in 2007.

A remarkable man, Robinson will be missed

I was saddened to learn that my good friend and colleague, Phil Robinson, passed away two days ago after a courageous battle against cancer. Phil will be missed by many people. Phil was a tremendous attorney and also a warm, generous man who constantly gave of himself to others. If you had a legal question, Phil was always willing to take the time to quickly respond and offer advice. He was knowledgeable in the law and he was a champion in the courtroom.

Sorry, Sandpoint, you can't have it both ways

I’m sorry, Sandpoint, but you opted to sacrifice some of your “small town character” for a scenic byway (which is actually a bypass) a few years ago when you did not push for a westside bypass.

City ponders system of bike trails

SANDPOINT — If a proposed system of bicycle trails comes to be, city officials hope visitors and residents will be inspired to “explore Sandpoint.”

Legislators' votes at odds with our wishes

Wake up Bonner County! Did you want Obamacare? Neither did the Bonner County Republican Central Committee. They unanimously passed a resolution against the Health Care exchanges. Despite our wishes, all three of our elected Bonner County Republican legislators, Rep. George Eskridge, Rep. Eric Anderson and Sen. Shawn Keogh, voted for the health care exchanges in mid-March 2013.

Museum's 're-opening' unveils new era of access

Collections, archives move into the public view

SANDPOINT — One Friday, May 10, the Bonner County Historical Society & Museum swings wide its doors for a “grand re-opening” after a winter of major changes and notable improvements to the museum experience. Prepare to be wowed.

Permit sought for motocross track

BONNERS FERRY — A motocross race series could be coming to Boundary County this summer if the permit is approved.

Feist, Rosholt earn MMA wins

CLINTON, OKLAHOMA — A pair of former Sandpoint state champion and college wrestlers picked up wins at the recent C3 Mixed Martial Arts Championship fights at Lucky Star Casino in Oklahoma.

City revises parking rules

SANDPOINT — Complaints over parallel parking spots in downtown Sandpoint have prompted city officials to make changes.

Another chapter opens in Glengary Bay piling saga

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Supreme Court is affirming the Idaho Department of Lands’ denial of a controversial piling proposal at Lake Pend Oreille’s Glengary Bay, but is remanding a companion dock proposal back to IDL for further review.

Currie blazes a 73 to lead Bulldogs at Links

POST FALLS — David Currie fired a one-over par 73, just two strokes off of medalist honors, to lead the Bulldogs to their best team score of the year on Thursday at the Lakeland Invitational on Thursday at The Links Golf Course in Post Falls.

Work could boost river's health

SANDPOINT — Recent improvements to the Cabinet Gorge and Noxon Rapids dams are expected to result in a healthier Clark Fork River.

Levora, Alamillo, Wahl shine at District 1 All-Star Meet

POST FALLS — Sandpoint distance coach Matt Brass knew his 19 year-old school record in the 1,600 had a short shelf life, watching his protege Sam Levora steadily creep toward the mark.

Jessen, Temple lead Bulldogs past Timberwolves

SANDPOINT — Nicolette Jessen and Spencer Temple staged a third set comeback to win at No. 1 mixed doubles, leading Sandpoint to a rock-solid 9-3 win over Lake City in a tennis match on Thursday at Travers Park.

Residents seek God's blessings for nation, community

SANDPOINT — Blue skies reigned over hundreds of local faithful Thursday as they prayed for divine blessings on the nation, state and local communities.

Theft suspect withdraws pleas

SANDPOINT — An Oldtown wrecking yard operator charged with possessing stolen vehicles and methamphetamine rescinded his guilty pleas after a 1st District judge declined to adopt the terms of a plea agreement.

La Chic Boutique offers modern take on clothes

SANDPOINT — As far as Justine Murray and Michele Verzier are concerned, business is simply better together.

Bulldogs split with Bears

MOSCOW — It was a tale of two games for the Bulldogs on Wednesday in a 4A Inland Empire League softball doubleheader at Moscow, but at the end of the day, the No. 2 seed was secure for the upcoming district tournament.

It it isn't broken, don't try to fix it

On May 21 area citizens will elect two candidates to the Sandpoint Library Board of Trustees. As a former trustee of this proud community treasure, and as one who wants the library to keep to the high road on which director Ann Nichols and the current board have led it, I urge thoughtful residents to vote for Jim Spagon. Jim is a much-admired board member whose term expires this month and is running for re-election. A solid, experienced, highly educated, retired corporate manager, Jim’s strategic planning expertise and common sense have been central to our library’s steady progress. His support of and relationship with the vital Friends of the Library is well known, as is his reasoned, thorough approach to complex library issues. Our library is a prized community asset and Jim is a learned and effective steward of that asset.

Sandpoint, ITD officials talk 'Curve' compromise

SANDPOINT — City and Idaho Transportation Department officials are working together to reach an agreement on the U.S. 2 Curve project before a June deadline.

Support new board's efforts to get it right

Bonner County Commissioners recently voted unanimously to nullify, and not repay illegal solid waste fund loans. The money was illegally accumulated in the solid waste fund and illegally spent on the courthouse and juvenile detention center.

Don't find yourself on wrong side of history

Recently same sex marriage has come back into the spotlight as more and more politicians are stating their support for equality, along with the Supreme Court cases. This is good news since all Americans are protected under the same Constitution, and entitled to the same protections.

Bears take down Bulldogs

MOSCOW — Justin Puryear, Nik Feyen and Nate Stangel each banged out two hits in the opener, but the Bulldogs could manage only two first inning runs in a 12-2 loss to Moscow in a 4A Inland Empire League baseball doubleheader on Tuesday at Moscow High School.

Industry shouldn't control public lands

North Idaho residents should know that our state Legislature has an interim legislative committee dedicated to the state taking title and control over federal lands in Idaho.

Kiwanis Club named chamber's business of the month

SANDPOINT — The local Kiwanis Club has been selected as the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce’s business of the month for April.

Judge orders evaulation in battery case

SANDPOINT — An eccentric quilt artist accused of battering a public official was ordered Wednesday to undergo a mental health evaluation.

Host of locals help with new SHS softball field

SANDPOINT — Thanks to the efforts of a host of Sandpoint community members, the Sandpoint softball team has a brand-new, beautiful field to play on at Sandpoint Middle School.

Thrift store seeks planter's return

SANDPOINT — A group that gives generously to the community is hoping it will receive back a decorative planter that a thief callously stole last month.

Mitchell leads Bulldogs in sweep of Spartans

SANDPOINT — Senior Mamie Mitchell laced a triple and a double and drove in three runs, and Casey Bottomley allowed just six hits and struck out 10 to lead Sandpoint to a 12-2, 13-3 sweep of Priest River in nonleague softball action Tuesday during Senior Day at Sandpoint Middle School.

Inflammatory breast cancer rare, but also very serious

In her sappy novel “Firefly Lane” author Kristin Hannah has one of her characters diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer.

Lewd conduct convict seeks lesser sentence

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint man who ordered imprisoned for up to 10 years for engaging in lewd and lascivious conduct with a minor argues he received an unduly harsh sentence.

McMullen, Brooks claim wins at North Star League Championships

HARRISON FLATS — Seamus McMullen won the 100, 200 and high jump to lead the Clark Fork track team on Tuesday at the North Star League Championships at Kootenai High School.

County's high schools claim national honors

SANDPOINT — It was local high schools’ turn to bring home an excellent report card this week, courtesy of the U.S. News and World Report.

Community mourns Robinson's passing

Attorney left an indelible mark on Bonner County

SANDPOINT — An enduring force in Idaho’s legal community dimmed on Monday.

Brooks, Spartans double up on the Bulldogs

SANDPOINT — Nik Feyen ripped two doubles, including a 360-foot blast that would have been a home run at most fields, but it wasn’t enough as the Bulldogs lost 6-3 and 14-5 to the Spartans in a nonleague doubleheader on Tuesday at War Memorial Field.