Ellington

Shelby Rognstad is an effective leader

On Tuesday, Nov. 5, we will have the responsibility and privilege of voting for our town representatives. Sandpoint city councilman Shelby Rognstad has worked for the betterment of the community and has proven to be an effective leader.

Pick wisely, Sandpoint, we are all affected

While most of us in Bonner County don’t live in Sandpoint or vote for Sandpoint City Council, the decisions they make affect us all, and we therefore have a stake in these elections.

Williamson is the right choice for Sandpoint

Shannon Williamson is a right choice for Sandpoint City Council. She is committed to Sandpoint as a family-friendly community and supports economic growth and vitality. Shannon promises to make fiscally responsible decisions and to foster our economy by supporting employers who provide jobs that pay well.

Woodward: Armed staff option is off the table

District, BCSO working on security options

SANDPOINT — A proposal to arm select Lake Pend Oreille School District staff is effectively off the table, according to Superintendent Shawn Woodward.  

Mo Dunkel will be there for kids, city

I have grown up in Sandpoint and probably will stay for quite some time more. We can’t forget that our youth in this town need people to motivate to strive for better things. Let’s face it, the TV even states that our schools are behind others we need to remember that our youth will be in charge some day our choices and things we do now will effect them later.

Deadline looms for voters to declare party

SANDPOINT — If voters have any second thoughts about their declared political party affiliation, they have until March 14 to get them sorted out.

Sandpoint needs Rognstad on council

Shelby Rognstad is a touchstone for a healthy Sandpoint future. We urge you to vote for his retention on the Sandpoint City Council.

Balanced Bulldogs ready to make some noise at state

SANDPOINT — For the 35th time in the past 37 years, the Sandpoint volleyball team will be competing in the state tournament, opening against Bishop Kelly on Friday morning at 8 a.m. at Lake City High School.

Attitude, abilities make Rognstad the best pick

Anyone who has stopped for morning coffee at Common Knowledge knows that Shelby Rognstad is excited about public policy. He often has intelligent and non-reactive discourse with his friends and customers. Though he is eager to be part of Sandpoint’s future, it is not just enthusiasm that qualifies Rognstad for Sandpoint City Council. His prior experience on the council, position in the business community, and open-minded nature make him the ideal candidate.

Tricked-out home is a Halloween treat

SANDPOINT — It’s hard to miss the so-called Halloween House — a fact chaperones of trick-or-treat parties will soon discover.

Chamber, STCU host Women in Business conference

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce will host the fifth annual Empowering Women In Business Conference next month.

Coldwater Creek announces employee layoffs

SANDPOINT — Like her fellow employees at Coldwater Creek, she figured layoffs were coming.

Some jumping the gun on security concept

SANDPOINT — The concept of using retired law enforcement or military personnel in the community to enhance security in the Lake Pend Oreille School District remains just that — a concept.

Organizers: Recall effort making headway

SANDPOINT — The recall effort of Lake Pend Oreille School Board chairman Steve Youngdahl is making headway, according to organizers.

SMS cross country team wraps up season

SANDPOINT — The Sandpoint Middle School boys cross country team finished first and the girls team second among seven North Idaho teams recently in the final middle school meet of the season.

On Halloween, walk safely and carry a big pumpkin

“We are quickly approaching two dangerous dates for those walking,” one of my favorite readers emailed the other day. “Halloween evening and 6 p.m. on the Monday following daylight savings ending.”

Rognstad is the right person for the job

I urge you to vote for Shelby Rognstad for Sandpoint City Council on Nov. 5. I have been fortunate enough to work with him on council for the last two years. I have witnessed first-hand his dedication to Sandpoint’s future.

Wampus Cats wrap up 2013 cross country season

CLARK FORK — Clark Fork’s Megan Frazier clocked a 25:20 to finish 14th out of 39 female runners at the recent 2A/1A, District 1-2 cross country championships at Lion’s Park in Grangeville.

Recall stance raises candidate 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.

Sitting back, waiting, is just not an option

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.

Rognstad's experience is invaluable to the city

I feel the coming local election is of utmost importance, the local government makes many decisions that directly affect the function of our great community. Sandpoint City Council currently has three seats open, as well as an upcoming appointment by our mayor, to fill Aaron Qualls’ seat.

No injuries in rollover accident

COCOLALLA — No injuries were reported after a sport utility vehicle overturned and landed in a marshy area on the east side of U.S. Highway 95 on Monday morning, according to Idaho State Police.

Bulldogs' win over Knights hardly an upset

SANDPOINT — Upset nothing, this was vintage Sandpoint soccer, pure and simple.

Death probes continue in Clark Fork

CLARK FORK — Authorities may be able to positively identify the remains of person that were discovered after a fire swept through a home near the Montana state line.

Food bank starts Thanksgiving turkey drive

Officials say 900 turkeys needed for local families

SANDPOINT — Bad news arrived at the Bonner Community Food Bank this week, just as the center is ramping up efforts to feed households in need this holiday season.

Workshop knowledge will be worth it, right?

I took a little time this morning to watch the news on TV. What I saw was an arrest (not in this area) by at lest three officers of a man, who was seen in the act, yet only under suspicion of stealing a piece of cake.

Suspect in sex battery enters plea

SANDPOINT — A Bonners Ferry man accused of sexually abusing a Sandpoint teen pleaded not guilty on Monday.

Williamson, council are a perfect match

Shannon Williamson is running for city council for all of the right reasons and my family and I support her all the way.

Program just the ticket for schools

SANDPOINT — It’s unlikely anyone has recently burned through more lottery tickets for a better cause than the Idaho Lottery school scratch-off Wednesday.

Idaho's core values measured in education funding

Aristotle famous said that if you really want to understand what a state values, observe how it spends its money.

Bulldogs bounce Bantams

CLARKSTON — Chase Rodriguez hauled in touchdown catches of 30, 39 and 55  yards from quarterback Nate Loutzenhiser, leading the Bulldogs to a 47-29 road win over Clarkston in nonleague football action on Friday night.

Manslaughter case dismissed

SANDPOINT — The state is discontinuing its prosecution of a motorist accused of causing a deadly crash on U.S. Highway 95 in Cocolalla last year.

Bulldogs advance; ready for showdown with Knights

CALDWELL — Sandpoint took care of business for the second straight day at the 4A state girls soccer tournament, setting up one of the most anticipated championship games since Idaho started holding state soccer tournaments in 2000.

CWC analysts see both good, bad

SANDPOINT — Analysts are seeing both good and bad signs in Coldwater Creek’s financial situation.

LPOHS, SOLE team up for program

SANDPOINT — Lake Pend Oreille High School and Selkirk Outdoor Leadership and Education are joining forces to bring local students more educational experiences.

Sandpoint chamber welcomes Evergreen Home Loans

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome Evergreen Home Loans to the community.

Claim alleges rights violations

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint woman involved in a protracted saga with law enforcement and the court system in Bonner County is seeking $2.5 million in damages for alleged civil rights violations.

LPOSD grapples with security against grim backdrop

SANDPOINT — Although a recent poll of staff at the Lake Pend Oreille School District shows little support for arming school personnel, there is a strong consensus for additional security measures of some sort.

Man accused of rape sentenced

SANDPOINT — A Montana man who took a plea agreement to stave off being retried on a rape allegation was sentenced to time served on Monday and placed on probation for three years.

Bulldog cross country teams sweep districts

MOSCOW — Senior Sam Levora clocked a 17:44 to win the boys race, and junior Mikhaela Woodward a 22:14 to finish second in the girls race, leading the Bulldogs to a sweep at the 4A Region 1 cross country championships on Thursday at Phillips Farm in Moscow.

Weme, Crane lead Bulldogs to win in state opener

CALDWELL — One player’s performance was to be expected, another a bit of a surprise, but each proved key to Sandpoint’s 4-0 pasting of Blackfoot on Thursday in the opening round of the 4A girls state soccer tournament at Brothers Park.

Bulldogs advance at state

Sandpoint High School girls defeated Blackfoot in their opening game against Blackfoot to advance in the girls state soccer tournament.

There are better ways to improve school safety

First, as a teacher and counselor at Sandpoint Middle School, the husband of an elementary school teacher and a parent of children in the district, I want to make it clear that the following is my own opinion on the subject of arming teachers in our schools.

Homemade touch wins Miller's Country Store plenty of fans

SANDPOINT — There’s nothing quite like the homemade touch, as fans of Miller’s County Store will tell you.

East Hope approves fire district annexation

EAST HOPE — The aim of ending years of divisive vitriol came to a possible end this week when council members voted to request annexation into Sam Owen Fire District. However, 38 residents of this community of less than 200 have already filed a petition to put the annexation to vote by the total population, not just the City Council.

Bulldogs kick off quest for 6th state title today

SANDPOINT — Bring on the champs. Bring on big, bad Bishop Kelly.

Tamarack, Cessna solidify partnership

SANDPOINT — Local company Tamarack Aerospace has solidified a partnership with one of the biggest names in aviation: Cessna Aircraft.

Wagoner powers Wampus Cats past Tigers

SPIRIT LAKE — Senior Autumn Wagoner had her best match of the season at the most opportune time, ripping 15 kills to go with six blocks to lead the No. 1 seed Wampus Cats to a hard-fought 25-22, 23-25, 24-26, 25-21, 15-12 win over No. 2 seed Mullan Wednesday night in the 1A Division II championship at Timberlake High School.

Dover council candidates square off

DOVER — Utility rates, transparency in government, law enforcement and the continued role of urban renewal were recurring themes Wednesday at forum for candidates seeking election to the City Council.

Camp can work with others, get things done

“Hey, Bob … I have an idea …”

Remmetter is best choice for council

I recently found out that my friend, Mark Remmetter, was running for a seat on the Sandpoint City Council; I couldn’t be more pleased. Mark has never held elected office before but over the years has always voiced his concern for this community and wanted to make a difference within it. By trade, he is a skilled craftsman, always doing his job well and with integrity.

Sandpoint council candidates debate issues

SANDPOINT — One of the most diverse selections of Sandpoint City Council candidates in recent years made their case at a public forum Tuesday night.

Bonner General hosting open house on diabetes

Look around. If you’re in a room with four people, one of you either has or will have diabetes.

Bulldog cross country team primed for districts

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint will be looking for a boys and girls sweep and automatic team berths to state on Thursday at the 4A Region 1 cross country championships at Phillips Farm County Park in Moscow.

LPOSD open to broadening security options

Staff polling shows little support for arming teachers

SANDPOINT — The Lake Pend Oreille School District appeared open Tuesday to broadening its options for improving school security and refining the way those alternatives are evaluated.

'That's soccer'

SANDPOINT — A lot of people around Sandpoint have used the words “that’s soccer” to sum up the Sandpoint boys tough-to-stomach 1-0 loss to Lakeland in a shootout during the 4A Region 1 championship.

County passes on SilverWing settlement offer

SANDPOINT — Counsel for the developers of SilverWing at Sandpoint offered to settle its suit against Bonner County for $4.5 million, according to correspondence obtained by The Daily Bee.

#2435 ORDINANCE NO. 1289

SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 1289

UI Extension office is alive and well

Thanks to the Daily Bee for including the article on the former University of Idaho Research and Extension Center property.

Contor, Crayne lead Bulldog swimmers at districts

MOSCOW — Junior Madi Contor finished third in the 50 free and 100 fly to lead the Bulldog swim team at the North Idaho district swim meet Saturday at the University of Idaho pool.

Chamber honors Chris Bessler as top volunteer

SANDPOINT — Chris Bessler’s volunteering efforts in the community are vast and his impact tremendous.

Coldwater Creek ponders options

SANDPOINT — It’s too early to tell what Coldwater Creek’s exploration of “strategic alternatives” will mean for the community.

Political correctness sabotaging country

It is a great idea to have guns at your side in any controversial arena such as these mentioned. It could easily save the lives of those attending and would likely prevent a threatening occurrence from starting.

Board is right to give matter serious thought

Steve Youndahl and the Lake Pend Oreille School Board are to be commended for holding a public hearing on the very controversial issue of arming staff members. Nothing is more important than the safety of our kids, grandkids, and, of course, staff members.

Panida Theater ushers in digital age

SANDPOINT — Catching a movie at the Panida will be more immersive than ever starting this weekend.

Feds don't need any more of our money

We gave our child a credit card with a $1,000 limit and told him to do a budget that would allow him to keep his spending reasonable. He refused to make a budget, ran his credit card to the limit and took money from our savings (government retirement funds). Now he wants us to increase his credit card limit and still refuses to do a budget. He keeps spending money on vacations and his friends (politicians) but cuts spending to those who need the money like retirees but not those who did not deserve it in the first place like illegals. He then blames us, the taxpayer, for causing this mess and gets upset when we ask him to stop spending money that he doesn’t have.

We're better off following Youngdahl's leadership

The Lake Pend Oreille School Board’s public comment session on campus safety Tuesday evening was respectful and informative, but for Mindy Cameron and her husband Bill Berg who, it seemed to me, put their personal feelings against board chairman Steve Youngdahl ahead of a rational discussion of school safety.

Swanson seeking leniency

SANDPOINT — A Priest River man sentenced to life in prison without parole for killing his wife and their unborn child is making a post-conviction appeal for leniency, court records show.

Magro runs wild as Bulldog JV routs Bears

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint running back Logan Magro ran wild for the Bulldog JV football team in a recent 47-0 pasting of Moscow, picking up 212 yards and four touchdowns on just 14 carries.

Armed teachers may pose problems

I think this question can really be broken done into two parts. First, will installing guns in every school district wide really help prevent school attacks or is there more effective ways to deal with the problem at hand? The second question: Will the students and teachers still feel safe at school with guns on the premises?

Woman blames 'World of Warcraft' in child neglect case

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Court of Appeals is upholding the termination of parental rights of a North Idaho woman who claimed video game addiction was partly to blame for neglecting her kids.

Mother and daughter pursue a new life after breast cancer

SANDPOINT — Mary Faux is wearing pink today. Yes, it looks absolutely lovely on her, but that’s not the reason she leans toward this side of the color palette.

Facts shed light on school shootings

Since 1963, 137 school shootings have taken place — 59 percent involved explicit targets, 90 percent featuring students as shooters with 69 percent of those targeting fellow students. Twenty-five percent involved random and mass shootings by students or former students. Seventeen percent of random school shootings were perpetrated by either external adults, insane kids with no affiliation to the school or were gang related.

Do you think the recall effort against Lake Pend Oreille School District trustee Steve Youngdahl is justified?

Bulldogs beat down Bears in 4A IEL opener

MOSCOW — A clutch 99 yard game-winning drive, a dominating defensive effort and winning the turnover battle all added up to a 21-14 win for Sandpoint over Moscow in a 4A Inland Empire League opener Friday night in Moscow.

Outburst at meeting was not appropriate

I am dismayed and appalled at Mindy Cameron’s outburst to Steve Youngdahl, Lake Pend Oreille School Board chairman, at the school board meeting this week. Not only did she ignore Roberts Rules of Order, but continued her outrageous behavior. Youngdahl explained she could speak later during their meeting and also at the workshops. He explained that the forum was for public input.

Miners down Wampus Cats

WALLACE — The Wallace Miners started their North Star League game with the Wampus Cats when Mitch Millard returned the opening kickoff for a 70-yard touchdown, setting the tone for the game on Friday night in Wallace.

Sackett accused of sex trafficking

SANDPOINT — A Priest Lake businessman embroiled in a high-profile wetland dispute with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has been arrested in North Dakota on a federal sex-trafficking charge.

Smaller jails feel insurance pinch

BONNERS FERRY — Small county jails are feeling the brunt of regulations aimed at larger jails in Idaho.

School gun proposal prompts recall drive

SANDPOINT — Opponents of the proposal to arm school staff have launched a recall effort against Lake Pend Oreille School District trustee Steve Youngdahl.

City examines ITD truck rules

SANDPOINT — Regulations over massive commercial truck routes led an otherwise straight-foward council meeting Wednesday.

Circles Initiative squares off against poverty

SANDPOINT — When it comes to helping residents lift themselves out of generational poverty, Idaho has a long way to go, according to local nonprofit workers.

BGH, nurses enter into mediation

Nurses working under contract extension

SANDPOINT — Bonner General Hospital and the union representing its nursing staff are calling upon a federal mediator in hopes of resolving an ongoing contractual stalemate.

Exercise Institute opens in new location

SANDPOINT — A new home is a great reason to rejoice so it’s no wonder the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated the Exercise Institute’s new location.

Hawks pull off shocking upset of Bulldogs in championship

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint dominated Lakeland in nearly every facet of Thursday’s 4A Region 1 boys soccer championship at Pine St. Field.

Deputies investigate unrelated deaths

CLARK FORK — Sheriff’s detectives are probing two unrelated deaths that occurred in eastern Bonner County last week.

Where are the voices we need to hear?

Obama wants to push through his health care, won’t negotiate with Republicans, and so he, not Republicans, shut down the government.

Want to fix D.C.? Throw them all out

Who are they? Surely, you know — you are the voters who sent them to Washington. To say the least, your choices leave a lot to be desired. Tell me, if you will — why are we paying these “do nothings?”

Can we just get along and work together?

Why can one or several anti-gun activists try to ban firearms because two or three nuts do something stupid. There are millions who enjoy the shooting sports and seem at the mercy of so few. Now I certainly condemn abhorrent behavior by nuts and criminals but perspective is necessary so that we can all get along. Ever wonder why Congress can’t talk to one another? The answer is pandering for votes, said another way doing what you know is wrong but selfishly advances your agenda or pads your wallet.

Legal costs ascend in SilverWing lawsuit

SANDPOINT — Bonner County commissioners declared a financial emergency Wednesday to sustain its vigorous defense of a multi-million-dollar lawsuit filed by developers of SilverWing at Sandpoint.

Democracy can't work without divine help

Today’s congressional problems reflect the design, revealed and demonstrated fact that human lives, of themselves, operating open loop to their in-dwelling spiritual selfhood wisdom cannot operate a democracy.

Bulldog girls punch ticket to state tourney

SANDPOINT — Many on the Bulldog girls soccer team waited a year for the chance to exact some revenge against Moscow, and coupled with the pressure of either moving on to state or going home, things were understandably tense for the first 50 scoreless minutes of the 4A Region 1 championship game on Tuesday at Pine St Field.

Obama determined to destroy our greatness

“Mr. Obama, tear down this fence” — a small sign held by one of the protesters at the World War II Memorial last weekend.

Fair helps students make financial sense

KOOTENAI — Sandpoint High School student Bailey Tomazich probably didn’t expect she’d have to financially support a four-year-old daughter Wednesday morning.

Ponderay Garden Center receives chamber honors

PONDERAY — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce has recognized the Ponderay Garden Center at September’s Business of the Month.

Inflation is country's biggest problem

The biggest problem with today’s economy is inflation. For decades the Federal Reserve bank has lowered the prime interest rate to make more money available. The problem with this is when more money is available prices increase and you have higher inflation. The Federal Reserve should start slowly raising the prime interest rate to curb inflation or possibly reversing inflation.

Sisterhood abounds on Bulldog soccer team

Suit aims to restore timber contracts

SANDPOINT — A lawsuit was filed in U.S. District Court Monday to force the federal government to honor timber sale and stewardship contracts it let prior to the government shutdown.

New Panida board members welcomed

SANDPOINT — With several fresh perspectives taking leadership roles at the Panida, a new era is ahead for the historic theater.

ITD pledges funds if stalemate continues

SANDPOINT — Idaho will pay contractors working federal highway projects and keep funding flowing to transit providers with state funds if the national government shutdown continues beyond Thursday, the Idaho Transportation Department announced Tuesday.

Kluver, Neumann lead Bulldogs on Senior Night

SANDPOINT — Mariah Kluver tallied nine digs and four jump serve aces, and Hannah Neumann hammered nine kills, leading Sandpoint to a 25-15, 25-16, 25-9 straight set win over Lakeland in 4A Inland Empire League volleyball Tuesday night at Les Rogers Court.

Bulldogs shine at home cross country meet

SANDPOINT — The Sandpoint girls varsity team placed second out of seven teams at the William Johnson Sandpoint Invitational on Saturday at Travers park.  

Public duels just might encourage D.C. civility

Just like every other citizen in the country, I have been watching the antics of our elected officials with dismay. Just the other day, while lying prone in the dentist’s chair with nothing else to occupy my mind, I arrived at a very sensible solution to the rancorous behavior of our elected officials. It doesn’t require new laws or special elections or new taxes. Civility would return to the nation’s capital in very short order.

Scotchman Peaks fares well in forest plan

SANDPOINT — A U.S. Forest Service national forest management plan is recommending 25,900 acres in the Scotchman Peaks area be added to the federal Wilderness Preservation system.

Bonner County Fair honors volunteers

SANDPOINT — As the engine that keeps the Bonner County Fair running, local volunteers often don’t get the recognition they deserve.

Referendum needed over minority tyranny

Jim Ramsey, recognition of America’s current minority rule efforts is just one of the many that occur with our two-party politics. Minorities are always busy trying to tyrannize the majority. Even the Supreme Court feels free to violate majority wisdom.

Utt sentenced in sex case

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint man accused of engaging in a sexual relationship with an underage girl has a chance of avoiding a lengthy prison term.

Bill Gates has doubts about Common Core

As the Washington Post reported on Sept. 27, 2013, the man who poured billions into Common Core education reform revealed during a Sept. 21 interview at Harvard, “It would be great if our education stuff worked, but that we won’t know for probably a decade.” He repeated it soon afterwards during a Clinton Global Initiative panel discussion.

Teachers suing to uncover allegations

PRIEST RIVER — Two Priest River Junior High School teachers are suing the West Bonner County School District to uncover unflattering allegations that were made against them by their colleagues.

Bonner General Hospital prepares to expand

SANDPOINT — Land preparations are underway for the expansion of Bonner General Hospital, a project that will add several new facilities to the local health care hub.

Honor flight opens floodgate of memories

SANDPOINT — For veterans of World War II, taking the Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., can set loose a flood of memories.

Education, innovation anchor economic security

SANDPOINT — A collaboration between education and innovative industry is the key to economic security, according to an economic summit Thursday.

Charges revived, expanded in child porn case

SANDPOINT — Child pornography charges have been reinstated and expanded against a former Sandpoint man.

Suspect in felony battery pleads not guilty

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint man accused of fracturing another man’s skull in an alleged attack outside a downtown bar pleaded not guilty on Thursday.

Bulldogs continue torrid stretch with 0-0 draw

COEUR d’ALENE — Another game, another stellar defensive effort for the Sandpoint boys, who tied Lake City 0-0 on Thursday in nonleague soccer action at the Irma Anderl Soccer Complex.

Plane crash pilot pleads not guilty

SANDPOINT — A Utah man accused of crashing a plane at Sandpoint while under the influence of prescription medication is maintaining his innocence.

Milltown Apts. shuttered by shutdown

SANDPOINT — As the autumn cold sets in, dozens of affordable, efficient apartment units are standing empty — and local residents are suffering for it.

Wurm leads balanced Wampus Cats to win over Miners

CLARK FORK — A surprise visit from a guest coach paid dividends, as Clark Fork dispatched Wallace 25-13, 25-16, 23-25, 25-10 on Thursday in North Star League volleyball action at Clark Fork High School.

Fish & Game keeping an eye on walleye

Some want walleye fishery established

SANDPOINT — Walleye have proliferated throughout Lake Pend Oreille and the Pend Oreille River, but the Idaho Department of Fish & Game has no near-term plans to change its strategy for managing the non-native fish.

Scott, Kiebert lead Bulldogs past state champs

SANDPOINT — Sierra Scott scored her 12th goal of the season just five minutes into the game, and Sandpoint rode the early momentum to a 3-1 win over the reigning 5A state champion Timberwolves in nonleague girls soccer on Thursday at Pine St. Field.

Word! What an adventure

Game transforms learning into fun

SANDPOINT — Farmin Stidwell first grade teacher Nicole Dash doesn’t have a hard time getting her students to learn their sight words — in fact, they look forward to it.

Judge orders trial in sexual battery case

SANDPOINT — A Bonners Ferry man was ordered Wednesday to stand trial for sexually abusing a teen despite testimony from the alleged victim’s father that she has a history of making false allegations.

These days, it is the minority that rules

The minority rules.

Let teachers teach and experts protect

I do not agree that we should arm teachers or other staff in our school buildings.

Paper owes readers diverse discussion

Crayne, Reich notch wins for Bulldog swimmers

SANDPOINT — Shanna Crayne won the 200 free, Madi Contor the 100 butterfly and Kate Matlosz the 100 breast to lead the Sandpoint girls to a sweep of Post Falls and Lakeland in a three team swim dual on Wednesday at the Sandpoint West Athletic Club.

Fitchett named new head coach of Sandpoint baseball team

SANDPOINT — New Sandpoint head baseball coach Scott Fitchett has one important thing in mind when he takes over the program this spring: W.I.N.

Suspect may be delusional

SANDPOINT — A Post Falls man accused of attempting to kill his estranged wife has been ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation, court records show.

Weme goal earns Bulldogs 1-1 draw with Bears with Bears

SANDPOINT — Make it nine straight wins without a defeat for the Sandpoint girls, who earned 1-1 draw with Moscow on Tuesday in a 4A Inland Empire League soccer clash at Pine St. Field.

Questions on asthma? See your health care provider

“It was very peculiar,” a reader wrote recently. “Last week’s thunderstorm made me sick. For a while I couldn’t breathe and couldn’t stop wheezing and coughing. When the storm was over I felt fine. Could you look into this and let me know if I have asthma?”

Felony charges dismissed in assault case

SANDPOINT — Felony assault and kidnapping charges are being dismissed against a Cocolalla man.

Hundreds pack LPOSD hearing on arming teachers

SANDPOINT — Supporters say arming school staff members could save innocent lives; critics contend that it could take them unintentionally.

The Box Golf Training Center helps golfers sharpen game

SANDPOINT — All golfers are well-acquainted with the tension that precedes a critical swing of the club.

Bulldog boys blank Bears

MOSCOW — A strong second half and another stingy defensive effort led Sandpoint to a 2-0 win over Moscow in 4A Inland Empire League soccer on Tuesday in Moscow.

Bulldog girls sweep swim dual; host Post Falls today

COEUR d’ALENE — The Sandpoint girls beat Post Falls 82-67, Lewiston 77-68 and Lakeland 92-30 to earn the duals sweep recently at a four-team meet at the Kroc Center in Coeur d’Alene. The Bulldog boys lost 49-47 to Lakeland, 79-41 to Lewiston and 80-29 to Post Falls in the team scoring.

Bonner County flush with elections

SANDPOINT — Bonner County is conducting 11 elections on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

Schools are for learning, not guns

I wanted to follow up Tom Bokowy’s eminently diplomatic letter of Oct. 3. The day school staff are armed, I will remove my two children from Lake Pend Oreille School District and any support for its funding.

Politicians must stop acting like children

It’s about time the people in Washington, D.C., quit acting like a bunch of schoolchildren and started acting like the leaders of this great nation.

UI: Mixed use key to resurrecting R&E property

SANDPOINT — University of Idaho Sandpoint managers believe there’s still plenty of local value left in the 77-acre property.

Martin leads Bulldogs in Spokane

SPOKANE — Taylor Martin tallied 25 kills, 16 digs and five aces to lead the Bulldog volleyball team to a 4-3 record and second place finish in the Silver bracket at the Linda Sheridan Volleyball Classic, formerly known as the Crossover.

Salvation Army, Love INC team up on fundraiser

SANDPOINT — The proceeds collected in the Salvation Army’s familiar red Christmas kettles will be under new management this year.

Scott, Kiebert sisters power Bulldogs past Bengals

LEWISTON — Senior Sierra Scott scored her 10th and 11th goals of the season one minute apart at the very end of the game, leading Sandpoint to a 4-2 win over Lewiston on Saturday in nonleague soccer at Lewiston High School.

BGH needs to retain, support its nurses

Bonner General Hospital is a wonderful hospital.

Accused drug dealer sentenced

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man accused of drug trafficking and possession has steered clear of a custodial prison sentence, 1st District Court records show.

Scarywood spooks up a frighteningly good time

ATHOL — Silverwood looks a little different this time of year.

Man dies in Hwy. 2 crash

PRIEST RIVER — An Oldtown man was killed Saturday after he drove left of the center line and off the left shoulder of Highway 2.

Renewable sources of energy need in U.S.

I am writing in response to Mr. Heraper’s letter regarding coal, printed on Sept. 24.

Anyone know who Dusty and Amy are?

Can anyone tell me who Dusty and Amy are and why there are signs posted urging them to keep going?

Songwriter heads home to Sandpoint

Blaze & Kelly hit Panida stage on Thursday

SANDPOINT — The first time Niccole Blaze played the Panida Theater, she booked the venue on her own dime for a CD release concert for her first collection of songs titled, “Despite the Dents.”

Environmental issues are about security

Though most people are aware of the drastic effects climate change poses to our planet, very little view this in terms of national security. However, the threats of climate change are influential to the point where the environment should now be included in our national security policy. Why?

Carlson's killer faces lifelong imprisonment

SANDPOINT — A jury acquitted a man of raping for Sandpoint resident Thursday, but found him guilty of killing her and a kidnapping enhancement that could result in a lifelong prison sentence.

Bowen, Nesbitt shine as Cats fall to Knights

CLARK FORK — Brandan Bowen scored on a couple of long touchdowns to lead Clark Fork, but the passing connection of Lakeside quarterback Charlie Zahir and running back Doug Schatz was simply too much, as the Knights posted a 44-34 win over the Wampus Cats in a North Star League battle on Friday night in Clark Fork.

Woodward, Foster pace Bulldogs

MOSCOW — Mikhaela Woodward was the top junior, Sydney Foster was second place among the seniors and Rainey Woodward was second among freshman runners to lead the Sandpoint cross country team on Friday at the 13 team Moscow Invitational.

Bulldogs struggle in red zone in loss to Blackhawks

CHENEY — The area on the football field from the 20 yard line to the end zone is called the red zone, but many coaches call it the green zone, as in money.

Local man pleads guilty in arson case

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint man charged with second-degree arson and aggravated assault in Kootenai County has pleaded guilty, according to the Idaho Supreme Court Data Repository.

Another delay in crash case

SANDPOINT — Unavailability of an essential witness is forcing yet another postponement in the case of a Sandpoint woman accused of fleeing the scene of a deadly highway crash.

Economic Summit date announced

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce & D. A. Davidson & Co. would like to welcome area residents and businesses to next week.

Board ponders training, arming LPOSD staff

SANDPOINT — Will armed staff members make Lake Pend Oreille School District schools safer?

Choir brings world to community

SANDPOINT — Diego Mendoza and Lucio Ahuate couldn’t have imagined what was in store for them when they first joined the Matsiko World Orphans Choir.

Bulldogs hungry for third straight win tonight

SANDPOINT — Riding a hot defense and the first winning streak in three years, Sandpoint will look to make it three wins in a row tonight on the road at Cheney High School.

Waters grow choppy for state boating law

SANDPOINT — A district court judge is buoying a lower court’s ruling that Idaho’s negligent boating law is unconstitutionally vague.

Guilty verdict in Carlson killing

SANDPOINT — A California jury found a man guilty Thursday of the first-degree murder of Dalene Carlson, a former Bonner County resident.

Ariss scores twice to lead Bulldogs past Hawks

RATHDRUM — Sandpoint started slow, giving up two goals in the first eight minutes, but held strong to post a 5-2 win over Lakeland in a 4A Inland Empire League girls soccer clash on Thursday in Rathdrum.

Stellar class of players honored on Senior Night

SANDPOINT — A huge Sandpoint senior class celebrated Senior Night in style with a 3-0 blanking of Lakeland on Thursday night in 4A Inland Empire League soccer under the lights of War Memorial Field.

Man sentenced in gun incident

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man has been sentenced to time served for allegedly opening fire on two people last year.

More guns in schools is not a good answer

I feel more guns in schools is a flawed plan:

Rosholt signs with UFC

SANDPOINT — Former Sandpoint state champion wrestler Jared Rosholt signed with UFC recently, following his older brother Jake into Mixed Martial Arts highest governing body.

Man accused of threatening, choking woman

SANDPOINT — A preliminary hearing is pending for a Kootenai man accused of kidnapping and threatening his estranged girlfriend.

Shuttle service growing in popularity

SANDPOINT — It’s been a whirlwind three months for the SMS Community Shuttle.

Suit seeks delta monitoring plan, more analysis

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Conservation League is pressing ahead in federal court to protect Lake Pend Oreille from a Bonneville Power Administration plan to fluctuate the winter pool on the state’s largest lake.

McCray, Seigal compete at Portland Jiu-Jitsu tourney

SANDPOINT — Black Bear Jiu-Jitsu practitioners Mike McCray and Cean Seigal represented Sandpoint last weekend at the North American Grappler’s Association Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournament in Portland.

Sandpoint company keeps the focus on natural

SANDPOINT — When it comes to dealing with the everyday necessities of life, it’s hard to find better products than those produced locally.

What the government shutdown means to you

As of Oct. 1, the federal government is shut down until a continuing resolution or other funding bill can be approved by both the U.S. House and U.S. Senate and then signed by President Obama. While these negotiations continue, I have provided the following information about how personal offices will be staffed and answers to frequently asked questions about how the shutdown impacts the lives of Americans.

Don't risk your life when it comes to breast cancer

Risks. We take them every day, don’t we?

Kiebert sisters lead Cats in sweep of Warriors

HARRISON FLATS — The Kiebert sisters had an impact in the back row and front row, leading Clark Fork to a straight set 25-19, 25-20, 25-22 sweep of Kootenai in  North Star League volleyball on Tuesday night.

Man arrested on attempted murder charge

SANDPOINT — A Post Falls man was arrested Monday for entering his estranged wife’s home north of Priest River and stabbing her.

Council faces light agenda

SANDPOINT — If the agenda is any indication, the Sandpoint City Council meeting tonight will be short and sweet.

Voting ends Wednesday night

SANDPOINT — There’s just one day left in America’s Transportation Award voting.

Chamber offers Facebook classes

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce is happy to announce fall social media workshops.

Pertussis cases increase in region

SANDPOINT — After sitting out several winter seasons in North Idaho, pertussis — more commonly known as whooping cough — is making a comeback.

Clear rules needed for safety's sake

Regarding bicycles and skateboards:

Sandpoint lauded as family town

SANDPOINT — According to a recent study, Sandpoint is a top-notch location to set the foundation for a lifetime of family memories.

Bullpup cross country team fares well early in season

SANDPOINT — The Sandpoint Middle School cross country boys team recently finished first at a meet in Twin Lakes and third at a meet in Coeur d’Alene, while the girls placed fourth and third, respectively.

Market is wonderful community partner

We want to thank Winter Ridge Natural Foods Market in Sandpoint for being a wonderful community partner for READY! for Kindergarten.

Former player sues over gridiron injuries

Suit seeks damages from district, Riddell

SANDPOINT — The family of a Bonner County teen who suffered a traumatic brain injury during a football game is suing the West Bonner County School District and the manufacturer of the former student-athlete’s helmet.

October offers great fishing opportunities

Many people in northern Idaho have shifted their focus toward hunting now that the summer is over. However, some of the best fishing of the year remains available in area waters for outdoor recreationists who don’t hunt; and, for those who were already successful at filling the freezer during the recently completed archery elk and deer seasons.