Ellington

Do you ever participate in Black Friday sales?

Man charged with aggravated assault

Is accused of drawing firearm during dispute

SANDPOINT — A Washington state man was arrested on Thanksgiving for allegedly drawing a pistol on a Priest River man during a verbal altercation.

Sandpoint youth skier named to U.S. telemark team

SANDPOINT — After finishing first in her age group at three national finals last year, including Canada and the U.S., Sandpoint’s Farli Boden earned a spot on the 2013-14 U.S. Telemark Development team.

Third Avenue work nears end

SANDPOINT — Construction on Third Avenue is set to wrap up before the end of the year.

SHS hosts test program

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint High School served as a testing ground this month in the effort to improve Idaho’s dismal post-secondary education rates.

Host of former Bulldogs end college soccer season

SANDPOINT — Along with the state titles come a lot of athletes advancing to play at the next level, as 10 former SHS soccer players competed in college this fall.

Students proof of NSE's success

SANDPOINT — As far as the Lake Pend Oreille School Board is concerned, Northside Elementary’s students are evidence enough of its success.

Free avalanche workshops offered this winter

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Panhandle National Forest Avalanche Center will conduct several free workshops to boost your avalanche awareness, open to any and all members of the community.

Teen dies in crash

ELMIRA — A Bonner County teen was killed Wednesday after the sport utility vehicle she was driving was hit by a northbound BNSF Railway train.

Court affirms denial of relief petition in Clark Fork stabbing

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Court of Appeals is upholding the summary dismissal of a petition for post-conviction relief sought by a former Bonner County man convicted of stabbing another man at a Clark Fork bar in 2005.

Merchants see relief on tax bills

SANDPOINT — Business owners in Bonner County are encountering a pleasant surprise with their tax bills this year.

Students grateful for life's blessings

SANDPOINT — From loved ones to favorite things, the list of things for which Sandpoint Waldorf students are thankful is a long and varied one.

Winter's here - it's tie to ski race

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Bank account aids fire victim

PONDERAY — A bank account has been established at Spokane Teachers Credit Union to help a recently widowed Sagle woman rebuild after a fire destroyed her home and nearly all of her possessions.

Walking 'The Way'

Local travels renowned pilgrims’ path

SANDPOINT — How do you walk just under 500 miles?’

Grocery supplier warns of regional data breach

SANDPOINT — A regional food distributor that supplies Bonner County grocery stores is warning customers that its payment processing system is under attack by a cyber criminal.

Convicted killer appeals sentence

SANDPOINT — A Priest River man ordered imprisoned for the rest of his life without parole after killing his wife and their unborn daughter is appealing his sentence to the Idaho Supreme Court.

Bulldogs fall short against Vikings

SANDPOINT — Three Sandpoint players scored in double figures, but a tough third quarter proved too much to overcome, as the Bulldogs fell 59-46 to the perennial 5A state power Vikings in nonleague girls hoops at Coeur d’Alene High School.

Don't be a turkey during holiday, just be careful

In the same day last week, two wise men said to me, “What you eat between Thanksgiving and Christmas isn’t nearly as important as what you eat between Christmas and Thanksgiving,” or words to that effect. Thanks, David and Keith. I agree with you. So, I will defer the task of telling our readers to eat moderately tomorrow to one of my pagemates because I, for one, am going to stuff myself with turkey and stuffing and enjoy every minute of it.

Dedicated volunteers help food bank

SANDPOINT — It wasn’t too long ago that Willow Peterson depended on the Bonner Community Food Center as a client.

Wurm, Heigis shine in loss

MULLAN — Annie Wurm and Alicia Heigis each had big games in the paint, but it wasn’t enough, as the Wampus Cats lost 48-34 to Kootenai in the consolation game of the season-opening North Star League Tournament on Saturday at the Mullan Pavilion.

Ruling pending in tax revenue dispute

SANDPOINT — A ruling is still pending on the Independent Highway District’s effort to upend a lawsuit filed by the city over tax revenue.

Host of Bulldogs earn All-IEL football honors

SANDPOINT — Call them the Dirty Dozen, as 12 Sandpoint football players earned a spot on the All-Inland Empire League football team, as voted on by the league’s coaches.

Sackett enters not guilty plea

SANDPOINT — A Priest Lake landowner accused of attempted sex trafficking of a child in North Dakota is pleading not guilty, U.S. District Court records show.

Thank you, Elks, for remembering veterans

Thank you, Elks, for again remembering the veterans and seniors in the Sandpoint community.

Traffic stop raises legal questions

This summer while traveling northbound on Highway 95, I was cited by a Idaho State Police trooper. The trooper violated two traffic laws in his attempt to issue me a citation for only a minor infraction.

Community's efforts mean a great deal

Thank you for the spectacular coverage of Veterans Day activities in the Bee.

Road & Bridge offers tips for a safe winter

Bonner County Road & Bridge would like to offer the following information to assist residents whom may have questions and concerns of how the department prioritizes its snowplowing during the winter months. It also contains information on how residents can be proactive in securing their mailboxes, and safeguarding articles that are placed in the county right of way. We would like all to have a safe and secure winter.

Many are owed thanks for concert's success

The fifth annual Songwriter’s Circle concert was once again a wonderful show and there are many good people to thank for its success.

Woman hit in crosswalk recovering

Driver facing reckless charge

PONDERAY — A Sandpoint woman who was struck and dragged beneath a pickup truck in a Walmart Supercenter crosswalk is recovering and the motorist who hit her is facing a charge of reckless driving.

A bad case of Partisan Blindness Syndrome

Polls indicate congressional approval at 9 percent, plus or minus. Got to be wrong. No way it can be this high. The President’s approval rating is 40 percent, plus or minus.  Seems that folks see Congress as bungling, but the President not so much. I don’t get it.

Toys for Tots campaign kicks off

SANDPOINT — A shaky economy and a shorter holiday season convinced the Sandpoint Lions Club to kick off Toys for Tots a week early.

Trail aims to connect two sides of county

Pend Oreille River Passage would double path system

Scott running for District 1 legislative seat

BLANCHARD — Heather Scott of Blanchard is announcing her intentions to run for District 1 state representative.

Shook Twins heading home for the holidays

Band aims to help local food banks through concerts

SANDPOINT — Katelyn and Laurie Shook have plenty to be thankful for this holiday season.

Bulldogs fall just short against Timberwolves

SANDPOINT — Coaches hate to talk about moral victories, because they often accompany a loss, but Sandpoint head coach Bill Bender was certainly pleased with the play of his team in a home-opening 61-56 loss to 5A Lake City on Friday night at Les Rogers Court.

Wampus Cats fall to Tigers in season opener

WALLACE — Sydney Koenig had 14 points and 14 rebounds to lead the Mullan Tigers past the Clark Fork Wampus Cats in the opening game of the North Star League tournament on Friday night at Kirby Krulitz Court.

Queen to lead Sandpoint BID

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed Kim Queen to the chamber as the new Business Improvement District manager.

Hip, hip, hooray for Sandpoint

Magazine names community Idaho’s hippest mountain town

SANDPOINT — At this point, local tourism advocates probably have a hard time remembering all of Sandpoint’s accolades.

Firefighters add to turkey drive total

SANDPOINT — After a rough couple of years, locals have mobilized to make sure every Bonner County resident has a great Thanksgiving.

Schoening explodes for 25 as Bulldogs topple Tigers

SPIRIT LAKE — Sophomore Madi Schoening had a monster game, scoring 25 points to go with 10 rebounds, three assists, three steals and two blocks, leading Sandpoint to a 65-59 win over Timberlake on Thursday in nonleague girls basketball in Spirit Lake.

Solution near for Ontario road closure

DOVER — A culvert collapse on Ontario Street in Dover is making trouble for residents who rely on the road for their daily commute.

Wampus Cats hoping to shoot way to state

CLARK FORK — For an inside-out game to work well, it takes good perimeter shooters and a solid low post game to make defenses have to stop both.

Woman loses home, pets

Sagle widow recovering after fire claims residence

SAGLE — A recent widow lost her home, pets and nearly all of her possessions in a fast-moving fire that swept through her residence on Wednesday night.

Ponderay highway rebuild is a disaster

It’s Nov. 14, a Thursday night, the end of the second day of the opening of the highway. I don’t know where to start with the problems created by this design.

GOP, tea party are no friend to veterans

As a veteran I have found the GOP and especially the tea party to be no friend of the veteran.

Fire levels Sagle home

SAGLE — A structure fire overran a home on Hawthorne Drive on Wednesday night.

Street fight could slow snow removal

SANDPOINT — A short, 20-minute council meeting nevertheless contained some important city announcements.

Tree gets new life for the holidays

SANDPOINT — A venerable community tree may be making an exit, but it’s certainly going out in a blaze of glory.  

Loggers can give us biofuel data for free

In the Nov. 10 Bee was an article about “UI and MSU to research using dead trees as biofuels.” They will be receiving a $10 million grant to study how to do this.

Technology start-up turning heads

Honors paving way for Solar Roadways

SANDPOINT — Recent award nominations and other accolades are paving the way to a bright future for Solar Roadways.

Bonner County forming objections to forest plan

SANDPOINT — Bonner County is preparing objections to the pending management plan for the Idaho Panhandle National Forest.

Water project nears finish

SANDPOINT — A major component in the expansion of the local water system will be complete within the next few weeks.

AIS helps customers navigate insurance options

SANDPOINT — Affordable Insurance Solutions recently opened in Panhandle State Bank’s Business Center.

Webster, Sherrill capture titles at Panhandle Championships

SANDPOINT — Top Dog sent 23 wrestlers to the podium at the Panhandle Championships on Saturday at Sandpoint Middle School. With more than 500 wrestlers in the field, Top Dog finished third in the team standings behind Post Falls’ Real Life and Lakeland.

Quit for good, quit for health, quit tomorrow

It seems like every medical condition I’ve written about in the last three years, maybe excluding bee stings and sunburn, could be prevented or alleviated if the patient quit smoking. So, I must admit it’s always a surprise to me when someone lights up, but apparently one in five of us are still puffing away our health.

Bulldog girls fall to Trojans in season opener

POST FALLS — Senior Hailey Olin and Nikole Alamillo each had strong games, but poor shooting and a slow first half proved costly as Sandpoint lost 49-37 to 5A Post Falls in a nonleague season opener Tuesday night at Post Falls High School.

Appointing Litsinger is the ethical thing to do

Dear mayor,

Perfection Tire receives chamber honors

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce has named Perfection Tire as October’s business of the month.

'They're fully believing'

Bulldog girls tip off season tonight with state aspirations

SANDPOINT — The straw that stirs the drink. The glue that holds it all together. The engine that makes the team run.

Motorist hurt in U.S. 95 crash

SAGLE — A Sandpoint man was injured in a collision on the Long Bridge on Sunday morning.

Candidate is viable choice to fill seat

Now that the election is over, it’s time for Mayor Marsha Ogilvie to fill the vacancy on the City Council left by Aaron Qualls’ move to the Planning Department.

GMOs can be a danger to health

Lee Santa’s letter (Nov. 12, Daily Bee) regarding GMOs (genetically modified organisms) is an important one. I agree in this case, the total impact of GMOs on human health is years away. It becomes critically important for consumers to educate themselves on GMOs and avoid them. Many countries in Europe, Australia, and Japan have banned the practice or enforced proper labeling so consumers can choose.

Honor constituents by appointing Litsinger

I seriously hope that the mayor of Sandpoint will take into consideration the will of the people when appointing a replacement councilperson for the seat being vacated. Bill Litsinger was the apparent fourth choice of the people in the recent election and should be given the position if he so desires to still be a part of the council.

Mixed-use zoning tops council agenda

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint officials anticipate two city meetings — a workshop and the regular council meeting — this week.

Get involved with STEM, learning

On Oct. 29, Shadle Park High School and the University of Idaho demonstrated examples of the success of the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) initiative. My company, Quest Integration, holds annual technical skill events. Students from these institutions showcased skills they will use in their manufacturing careers at our Spokane event.

Bomb threat empties Walmart

PONDERAY — An extortion-related bomb threat forced the evacuation of the Walmart Supercenter on Saturday afternoon.

Bay Trail is hinge point for bike path network

A conceptual map of the Pend d'Oreille Bay Trail shows how a linked network of trailheads, parks and a proposed underpass would link public access to the waterfront into a wider system of biking and walking trails that have the potential to connect municipalities from Sagle all the way to Priest River. (Courtesy image)

Natural resources panel's makeup is questioned

SANDPOINT — A new advisory board in Bonner County is raising eyebrows.

Councilwoman arrested on DUI charge

PONDERAY — Sandpoint City Councilwoman Jamie Brunner was arrested Thursday night on suspicion of drunken driving.

The future looks bright for Bulldog Football Nation

SANDPOINT — If you don’t like football, now might be a good time to jump to the next story. To borrow from the song in the Goldie Hawn/Wesley Snipes/Woody Harrelson classic movie "Wildcats": “It’s the sport of kings, better than diamond rings, football.”

Self-defense claimed in battery case

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint man accused of fracturing a man’s skull outside a downtown bar plans to argue that he was acting in self-defense, according to court documents.

Principal: LPOHS making strides

SANDPOINT — Lake Pend Oreille High School officials have high hopes for improved graduation rates and student performance in the coming years.

Regalia earns selection on All-NSL team

CLARK FORK — Clark Fork senior lineman John Regalia was named to the All-North Star League football team, as voted on recently by the league’s coaches.

Contor, Matlosz earn spots on district swim team

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint junior Madi Contor and freshman Kate Matlosz each earned spots on the girls 2013 All-North Idaho District swim team, as voted on recently by the league’s coaches.

Local pair enhance mediation skills

Cindy Hunter, of Evergreen Realty, and Forrest Schuck, of Century 21 Riverstone, recently took part in mediation training sponsored by the National Association of Realtors.

Memorial Field fundraising set to kick off

SANDPOINT — Planning is heating up for the future of Memorial Field.

Credit card fraud probed by authorities

SANDPOINT — Take a close look at your credit card statements.

Dist. 7 legislators look ahead to session

SANDPOINT — District 7 legislators gathered at Panhandle State Bank’s community room Thursday to talk some of the big issues with their northern constituents.

Find out the facts on different protein types

This is in response to the article on the Health page of the Nov. 6, 2013, Daily Bee by certified advanced rolfer Owen Marcus, M.A., titled “Lose weight and get strong — eat some meat.” Please do not believe everything that you read from quote “experts” such as Mr. Marcus. What he has presented is incredibly not scientific. Please do not take my word on this. Do some critical examination and judge for yourself. I would suggest that you check out any one of very many videos on YouTube under vegan body builders, vegan fighters, vegan athletes, and especially vegan calisthenics. Ladies, you may especially like the latter one.

Hearing postponed in stabbing case

SANDPOINT — A preliminary hearing in an attempted murder case is being postponed so the defendant can undergo a neurological examination.

Recall over gun debate doesn't make sense

Regarding the debate over the issue of guns in schools: This is how it should be. When a new idea is presented, it should be discussed, checked into, open for public discussion, surveyed by those closest to the issue and more. This is why we elect representatives; to bring forth this process.

Local schools honored for excellence

SANDPOINT — Local schools have once again been honored for excellence in education, solidifying the district’s place as one of Idaho’s highest performers.

Comparison is matter of apples and oranges

The editorial of entitled, “Who are the kids and who are the adults?” attempted to draw parallels between the Medicare Prescription Drug Program, and the Affordable Care Act (aka Obamacare). Let me correct some mistruths and highlight the differences:

Vegetarian diets are a great source of protein

I found irony in the recommendation by the author of an article in the Health section of the Nov. 6, 2013, Daily Bee. He promoted eating (“preferably grass fed”) meat as the means of “getting strong.” Cows are vegetarian, so it is vegetarian-built bodies that he’d have us eat in order to build our own. Perhaps the strongest bodies come from a vegetarian diet; certainly the strongest hearts do.

Handful of Top Dogs claim wrestling titles

SANDPOINT — The Top Dogs have been rolling recently during three North Idaho tournaments. They will end the season by hosting the Panhandle Championships starting Saturday morning at Sandpoint Middle School, with nearly 500 kids expected to compete.

Week focuses attention on homelessness

SANDPOINT — The stories behind homelessness rarely fit the preconceptions.

Court affirms sentences in PR slayings

SANDPOINT — First District Judge Benjamin Simpson declined on Tuesday to ease the life sentences he imposed against a Bonner County man who pleaded guilty to stabbing his wife to death and killing their unborn child.

School board ponders security options

SANDPOINT — A bevy of options are available to the Lake Pend Oreille School Board when it comes to improving school security.

Happy Paws helping area pets look their best

SANDPOINT — When it comes to keeping your pets looking their best, Happy Paws has you covered.

Widened U.S. 95 slated to debut today

Motorists will see the light at Bonner Mall

PONDERAY — Motorists will finally see the light at U.S. Highway 95 and Bonner Mall Way today.

Take time to learn about Restless Leg Syndrome

“Trying to describe my symptoms is the challenge of the century,” said a retired TV producer in the October edition of Consumer Reports on Health. “They usually begin while seated, with a jerky and uncontrollable movement of either leg accompanied by creepy-crawly sensations, resulting in an irresistible desire to stand up and walk, which almost instantly results in relief.”

Vet receives VFW award

SANDPOINT — In a few short years during World War II, Staff Sgt. Henry Bergdorf did more living than most people manage over decades.

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Tributes honor vets' service, sacrifice

SANDPOINT — The sacrifice of the nation’s veterans should be on every American’s mind as they decide how to live their lives.

Chamber welcomes Sandpoint Optometry

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed Sandpoint Optometry to the organization with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Candidate thanks voters for support

The democratic process has taken place and the electorate has spoken. I want to thank everyone that supported me and all those that voted.

Schweitzer competes in Ski Town Throwdown

SANDPOINT — Let the battle of North American ski towns commence.

Five Bulldogs earn district cross country honors

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint senior Sam Levora added to his decorated high school running career by being voted Runner of the Year on the All-District 1 cross country team, leading a contingent of five Bulldog runners to make the team, which was voted on by all of the coaches in North Idaho.

Will we learn impact of GMOs too late?

Recently I learned of a study linking DDT exposure in rats to obesity in their grandchildren:

Moving toward equitable water rates in Dover

Progress is being made toward sorting out the water rate issues in Dover. In response to concerns identified in a July 2013 analysis of water rates (Dover must develop equitable water rate plan, Bill Strand, July 23, 2013), Dover City Council formed a work group to help sort out the issues. At the Oct. 9, 2013, council meeting, Councilwoman Shaha announced some preliminary results from this work group’s efforts

Annexation is not in residents' best interest

On Oct. 22, 2013, the East Hope City Council decided to request annexation into the Sam Owen Fire District and quit supporting the Hope/East Hope joint fire department because they felt it was in the best interest of the citizens.

Foot-draggers solidly in Democrats' camp

Congress well deserves the low rating it is receiving from the public. Some of us are aware of some congressional peccadillos but ignorant of others. It ardently infuriates most of us when Congress exempts itself from laws that the rest of us must obey. Such is the case with Obamacare. A Democrat-controlled Congress in their often-extreme display of arrogance specifically exempted themselves along with their staffs from being covered by the law. They need not worry about broken websites or any of the myriad of other problems facing the public. The taxpayer will continue to provide these elite peers of the realm with everything from an aspirin to heart-lung transplants. Who would want to give that up?

Embezzlement raises questions about hire

Regarding the article in the Daily Bee on Nov. 5, 2013 titled “Embezzler dodges additional incarceration.”

Spud Cup caps sailing season

Association uses teaching as recruitment tool

SANDPOINT — Now that Lake Pend Oreille has settled into a slate gray hue for winter, it feels like ages ago when it was a deep, jade green and sailboats speckled the waters with crescent billows of white.

It will cost residents to be in fire district

In reference to the Oct. 24 article on East Hope, Eileen Klatt was quoted as saying that the city had spent $433,538 on the fire department from 2002 through August 2013. I am the former city clerk for East Hope, from 1997 through 2005, and I take issue with her figures.

Man sentenced for gun incident

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man accused of firing a pistol toward a woman during a domestic dispute has been given a suspended sentence and credit for time served, court records show.

Study: Early education makes big difference

SANDPOINT — According to a recent national study, early education can make a big difference in a child’s life.

On Coach of the Year, a dancing setter, and Jenks

SANDPOINT — Congrats to Sandpoint head coach Karen Alsager for being the 4A Inland Empire League Coach of the Year, as voted on by the sports editor of the Daily Bee.

Contract proposed for BGH nurses

SANDPOINT — A proposed contract has resulted from mediation between Bonner General Hospital and the union which represents the hospital’s nurses.

Sky's the limit for Idaho, NIC aerospace program

HAYDEN — There were 20,300 commercial airplanes in service worldwide in 2012.

Community to honor veterans

SANDPOINT — This weekend and early next week are packed with opportunities to show your appreciation for local veterans.  

Martin leads Bulldog trio on All-IEL volleyball team

SANDPOINT — Junior outside hitter Taylor Martin unloaded on some of the most powerful kills in North Idaho, earning her Most Valuable Player honors on the 4A All-Inland Empire League volleyball team, as voted on recently by the league’s coaches.

Bulldog JV team finishes season with 7-2 record

SANDPOINT — The Sandpoint JV football team ended the season on a high note, downing Lakeland 46-12 last Saturday for a season-ending road win.

Candidates grateful for local support

SANDPOINT — Despite a low voter turnout in many precincts, victorious candidates in Sandpoint and Ponderay are grateful for local support.

Trestle Creek bridge completed

New approach to bridge work saved both time, money

SANDPOINT — Work to replace an aging Highway 200 bridge across Trestle Creek is substantially complete, according to the Idaho Transportation Department.

Chamber talk takes look at customer service

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce has partnered with best-selling author and national speaker Tony Rubleski to bring an exceptional workshop to the Sandpoint area.

Wurm, Kieberts earn All-NSL volleyball honors

CLARK FORK — Senior setter Annie Wurm put the balls up at the net, and senior outside hitter Lyndsie Kiebert hammered them home, as the duo joined sophomore Leslie Kiebert to give Clark Fork three players on the All-North Star League volleyball team, as voted on recently by the league’s coaches.

No injuries after cyclist, motorist crash

SANDPOINT — No serious injuries were reported after a cyclist and motorist collided with one another at Lincoln Avenue and Pine Street late Thursday afternoon.

New Bag Lady in Town!

Miche bags that is!! It was love at first site for me with these bags! Its so easy to change my bag to match my mood or my outfit! ... I'm excited to be able to share Miche with all the lady's in Sandpoint!! 

Who are the kids and who are the adults?

In 2003, the Bush administration and the Republican-controlled Congress pushed through a controversial Medicare prescription drug program. Both misinformation and arm twisting were used to force it through.

Weme, Scott lead Bulldogs on IEL soccer team

SANDPOINT — As one-two punches go, it was tough to beat Sandpoint seniors Emma Weme and Sierra Scott this season, and the two led a host of Bulldogs earning 4A All-Inland Empire League soccer honors, as voted on by the league’s coaches.

Airport's navigation gear outage to continue

County says it lacks funds to upgrade damaged equipment

SANDPOINT — The crash-damaged navigation equipment used for instrument landings at Sandpoint Airport will stay dimmed out this winter.

New round of 'huntress' voting opens

SANDPOINT — Bonner County hunter Amanda Lowrey is one of four finalists in the “Extreme Huntress” competition and another round of public voting has opened.

War on health care and other thoughts

The Republicans’ war on national health care continues, not because it’s a bad idea but because President Obama presented it. Several conservative think tanks presented almost the same proposals as Obamacare but as soon as President Obama picked up the torch, the conservative support went away. This is health care, not a made-up war against a foreign nation that cost billions of dollars, thousands of lives and disabled thousands of others. Perhaps if Obama had put on a fight suit and helicoptered to an aircraft carrier to declare the war on health care is won, the conflict would be over but then again like the Iraq War, maybe not. Are there not more important issues for Congress? The government shut down cost us $2 billion but congressmen still got paid and have health insurance.

Continue improvements but take out 'cobwebs'

It’s wonderful to see the continuing improvements (pedestrian friendly) to downtown Sandpoint. As the work is being done on Third Avenue, I can’t but see the skeletal substance in the air above the street. I know that had Avista been approached to help in the beautification of downtown Sandpoint, they would have jumped on the PR benefits and the visual benefits to an already expensive endeavor. Windstorms blowing down overhead wires has been a continuing problem in the Northwest. If the funds are not there, at least put in conduit for future underground wires.

Youth's actions are source of inspiration

Kudos to Kaylee Goodman, the very brave young girl who save a schoolmate from a wasps’ nest and then asked for donations to the Panhandle Animal Shelter instead of birthday gifts for herself. What a treat to read about this level of selfless compassion for others.

Doesn't anyone care about the smoke?

Doesn’t anybody care about air quality lately? With all the fight we all put up against grass burning in our community, this time of year is enough to send you indoors. As soon as the ban is lifted from burning, every slash pile, burn pile and grass clipping pile gets lit. Doesn’t anybody compost or shred their clippings? We know there is no fighting the Forest Service or small logging companies.

Ogilvie announces temporary leave of absence

Logan to assume most Sandpoint mayoral duties

SANDPOINT — Based on her medical treatment schedule, Mayor Marsha Ogilvie has appointed City Council President Carrie Logan to take over mayoral duties for 90 days.

$25 Value at Vanderford's Books & Office Products FOR ONLY $15!

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Drug crackdown nets heroin, meth

SANDPOINT — Nearly a hundred grams of heroin were discovered when Bonner County sheriff’s officials raided a Sagle home last month, court records show.

Bulldog boys dominate 4A All-IEL honors

SANDPOINT — Not surprisingly, considering they were one of the top boys teams in the state, Sandpoint dominated the All-Inland Empire League soccer honors recently, as voted  on by the league’s coaches.

'Slow' turnout marks city elections

Williamson, Rognstad, and Camp elected to Sandpoint council

SANDPOINT — It was slow going for many polling places Tuesday as Bonner County residents trickled in to vote throughout the day.

Appeal in rape case to be heard Nov. 12

SANDPOINT — The state’s appeal of a dismissed rape case against a former Sandpoint man is slated to go before the Idaho Court of Appeals later this month.

Torn ACLs not just a problem for men, pros

Any given Sunday, football players go down hurt.

$20 Vapor Depot Juice Certificate only $10

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In reality, threats of gunfire do not work

Thinking about the proposal to arm our local schools, I ran into a video that documents a trial program very similar to that suggested as a deterrent to gun violence in our schools. Please take a look at it: www.youtube.com/watch?v=8QjZY3WiO9s

Zone plan drawing mixed reviews

SANDPOINT — A rezoning proposal for several local neighborhoods could mean big changes for the way people live and work in non-commercial regions.

Why can't we all just get along together?

Why can’t we all just get along together? Is that a rhetorical question? When you have a person seeking a taxpayer-funded recall of Steve Youngdahl, a public official who is taking the responsible step of considering all the possibilities regarding an explosive issue instead of an open public dialogue, because that candidate finds fault with data presented by that official then you have a partial answer to the first question. And if power corrupts, just you wait until it is made available.

Touchstone Integrated Health Therapies expands, moves

SANDPOINT — In addition to expanding, Touchstone Massage Therapies and Nutrition Plus!, also has a new home.

Embezzler dodges additional incarceration

SANDPOINT — A Sagle woman who pleaded guilty to embezzling from the Panhandle Animal Shelter was given a suspended prison term and credit for time served in a Kootenai County embezzlement case.

Contor leads Bulldog swimmers at state meet

BOISE — Junior Madi Contor earned a state medal with a sixth place finish in the 50 free, leading the Bulldogs on Saturday during day two of the Idaho State Swimming Championships at the Boise YMCA.

Northern Lights crews dedicated, courageous

I want to thank the Northern Lights crews for all their work in the middle of the storm last Sunday night. I know how dangerous it was for each of you to work into the night to restore our power.

Cough, not gun, scared bears away

The news has a lot of anti- and some positive gun stories and being an old retired U.S. Air Force soldier, I would like to add a few real time observations about hand guns.

Lifelong prison term imposed in case

SANDPOINT — A man convicted of killing Dalene Carlson, a former Bonner County resident who relocated to California, was sentenced Monday to life in prison without parole, according to The Stockton Record.

Bulldog cross country team caps stellar 2013 season at state

IDAHO FALLS — If you’ve driven around Sandpoint in the past year, there’s a good chance you’ve passed a group of SHS runners, along with coaches Matt and Angie Brass, putting in some road work to get in shape for the cross country season. The hard work paid off last weekend, with the girls team claiming a state championship.

Charter schools detail school safety policy

Forrest Bird Charter School has received several parent inquiries regarding the Lake Pend Oreille School District’s discussion on arming school personnel. Here is our response:

What's the best use of our national resources?

Congress, the President, and the American people are discussing budget priorities. What is the best use of our limited treasure? Do we continue at the current level of funding for the Pentagon and other departments that participate in military interventions, drone strikes, surveillance, and indefinite detention? Or do we choose to redirect these funds to care for our most vulnerable people, heal the land, and reduce the financial burden we leave our heirs?

Sandpoint BID's new era begins

SANDPOINT — This week marked a new era for the Sandpoint Business Improvement District.

Be extra careful when driving on U.S. 95

Due to the poor decision by the Idaho Transportation Department in Coeur d’Alene to re-pave only the slow (outside) lanes on Highway 95-South, they have created treacherous driving conditions. The re-paving was not done very well and is much higher than the inside passing lanes causing an imbalance and jerking when switching lanes.

We can't sit back and wait any longer

Another school shooting, in Nevada this time and more people dead. Are we just gonna sit around and wait until it (God forbid) happens here? It’s time to find those teachers that are willing and able to carry and, if need be, use it. Too many children are paying the price for us to sit back and do nothing until it’s time to plan the funeral of our children and or staff.

Initiative to up minimum wage is circulating

BONNERS FERRY — A grass roots initiative to raise the minimum wage in Idaho is spreading across the state.

Film fest funds outdoor classroom

Program puts kids on snow for experiential education

SANDPOINT — Attend a movie festival; throw down a couple bucks for raffle tickets; jot your name on the list for some very cool silent auction items; change the lives of local kids forever.

Sandpoint wins twice, still alive at state

COEUR d’ALENE — The Sandpoint volleyball team conquered any state jitters and came out firing on all cylinders Friday morning in the opening match of the 4A state volleyball championships at Lake City High School, nothing a solid win over Bishop Kelly.

Federal grand jury indicts Sackett

SANDPOINT — A federal grand jury in North Dakota indicted a Priest Lake businessman Wednesday on a charge of attempted sex trafficking of a child, according to U.S. District Court documents.

Board pondering replacement of localizer/DME

SANDPOINT — Bonner County commissioners are scheduled to take up on Tuesday the matter of replacing navigation equipment that was damaged when a Utah pilot recently crashed at Sandpoint Airport.

The only way to get change is to vote

The only way to get any kind of change in local and national government is to vote. If you are a registered voter and do not vote shame on you. If you are not a registered voter but are legal to register to vote double shame on you.

Bulldogs end season with tough loss to Hawks

SANDPOINT — Two teams that were dead even on paper proved mostly even on the gridiron as well, but ultimately Lakeland made a few more plays than Sandpoint in the end, earning a hard-hitting 24-14 win on Friday night at Barlow Stadium.

Officials must think of what's best for all

Past city councils (and other elected bodies) have had, and probably will have, members who have a closed mind when it comes to their pet agenda. They intend to shove it down the throats of everyone else while displaying an ability to close their minds to options, facts and opinions of others.

NIC dedicates science lab

SANDPOINT — Jenny Weerheim knows how tough it can be to commute for an education.

Warriors down Wampus Cats, earn state berth

HARRISON FLATS — Junior Morgan Willms had a 70-yard punt return for a touchdown, along with a 70-yard kickoff return for a score to lead the Warriors past the Wampus Cats in the North Star League finale for both schools.

Aitken would serve city well on council

I am writing in support of Bill Aitken who is running for City Council. Bill and his wife, Stephanie moved their family to Sandpoint seven years ago after reading that famous article in Sunset Magazine.

Bulldogs host Hawks tonight with football season on the line

SANDPOINT — While not official, playoff football ostensibly returns tonight when the Lakeland Hawks invade Barlow Stadium to face Sandpoint, with a state playoff berth on the line.

Candidate's views raise questions

As a parent of seven children, four of whom are still in Lake Pend Oreille School District schools, I have watched with baited breath the school violence throughout our nation. No parent can send their child to school and not worry about their safety. As a parent, I appreciate all that LPOSD has done to make my children safe while in school.

Appeals court upholds prison sentences

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Court of Appeals is affirming the prison term imposed against a Bonner County man convicted of felony drug possession.

Contor, Crayne, Matlosz ready to make some noise at state

SANDPOINT — Led by a pair of strong relays, the Bulldog swim team will open the state meet with preliminary rounds today in Boise.

Safety shouldn't start with guns

I don’t understand Steve Youngdahl’s obsession with finding any way to put guns into our schools. Schools are statistically the safest place for children. The rate of student deaths in school from a shooter is less than 1 in 2.5 million. That data also includes gang violence at schools. This compares to the U.S. average death rate from gun homicide at 1 in 28,000 and an average firearm accident rate with an emergency room visit of 1 in 16,000.

Remmetter is right person for council

I endorse Mark Remmetter for Sandpoint City Council. I know the excellent work he did for Cedar Street Electric and the service he has provided to homeowners as an electrician.

IDL sessions set in wake of CWC layoffs

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Department of Labor is mobilizing to help individuals laid off by Coldwater Creek Tuesday.

Find out facts when it comes to SPOT

I recently wrote a letter that endorsed three of the candidates for Sandpoint City Council. I was contacted with concerts about one of the candidates who has been, apparently, opposed to Sandpoint’s support of the SPOT bus. Because I do not listen to local talk radio, I had not heard about it, so I called the candidate and talked to him.

Downtown street talks en route

ITD gathering data on options, timeline

SANDPOINT — The first discussions over the future of downtown streets will hopefully take place around the end of the year, according to Idaho Transportation Department officials.