Ellington

We must work together to stop cyber attacks

With the holiday shopping season well under way, consumers, retailers and banks are reminded of the great need to protect financial data and payment information.

Stolen grader recovered in Montana

SAGLE — A Bonner County road grader believed stolen on Christmas has turned up in Helena, Mont., according to Bonner County sheriff’s officials.

P&Z holding hearing on retreat planned near Clark Fork

CLARK FORK — The Bonner County Planning & Zoning Commission is holding a public hearing next month on a proposed retreat in the Cabinet Mountains.

Bulldog boys and girls fall in Cd'A hoop tournaments

COEUR d’ALENE — Elani Williams scored 11 points to lead Sandpoint, which was held way below its season average in a 56-26 loss to Lake City in the opener of the Coeur d’Alene Winter Classic on Monday afternoon at Coeur d’Alene High School.

Quick thinking, fire crews turn tables on blaze

SAGLE — A homeowner near Gamlin Lake managed to turn the tables on a structure fire on Sunday by simply shutting a bedroom door.

Foreign films at theater are missed

It is Thursday, almost the day to start making plans to attend a movie of Global Cinema Cafe series. What will it be this week? “The Pianist”, 2003; “In America”, 2004; “March of the Penguins”, 2005; “Volver”, 2006; “Pans Labyrinth”, 2007; “Outsourced”, 2008; “Milk”, 2009; “As it is in Heaven”, 2010; “Of Gods and Men” 2011; “The Intouchables” 2012; “The Butler”, 2013; and “Nebraska”, 2014.

Cemetery caretakers are thankful for volunteers

SANDPOINT — “We had to do something, because nobody was doing anything.”

Mr. Sub first planned as donut shop

Popular restaurant is a local landmark

SANDPOINT — Trying to imagine Sandpoint without Mr. Sub is a little like watching Jimmy Stewart in a scene from “It’s a Wonderful Life,” as George Bailey gets a glimpse of what Bedford Falls would look like without him around.

Report: Idaho residents have gift for giving

When it comes to supporting our own, Idaho knows how to get it done.

Let liberalism roll and let me have my news

Interesting withdrawals from Fox News being dark on DISH. I feel the weight of the world is off my shoulders, but it’s a lot to digest. I don’t have to worry about the state of the country and world any longer.

Group uses tragedy to promote own agenda

The Bee’s guest opinion (Nov. 23, 2014) was written by the president of the local chapter on the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI Far North). Ms. Snoddy stated that the NAMI board of director “decries” (The Random House Dictionary definition: “to speak disparagingly of”) the fatal shooting of a woman by our local police as well as the conclusion by another county’s prosecutor that the officers’ action was justified. Ms. Snoddy failed to support that criticism.

Idaho needs to have an anti-SLAPP law

It’s getting harder to have political differences in North Idaho without someone threatening to sue over political differences. In some instances, these threats are just that, threats wherein people either have no intention of pursuing litigation or they have no legal grounds for such action. In either case, such suits are used for their intimidation value to silence opposition to their causes or candidates.

Parks and Rec debuts Little Dribblers basketball program

SANDPOINT — You’re never too young to learn the exciting sport of basketball, and now there is a chance for area boys and girls in first and second grades to play some hoops.

Winter weather making belated arrival

Call it Ma Nature’s comeback.

Husband doubts wife had death wish during confrontation

SANDPOINT — Jeanetta Riley’s husband does not believe his wife thought she would be killed by Sandpoint Police last summer.

Woman killed in Highway 95 crash

SAGLE — A Priest River woman was killed Friday in a collision on U.S. Highway 95 at Dufort Road.

Thunder girls ready for Tri-State tourney

Machaela Montgomery scored six points to lead the Kootenai Thunder in a recent Mountain Christian League girls basketball game.

Christmas dinner celebrates season's reason

SANDPOINT — The wood logs gleamed in the light, lending a warmth to the Christmas decorations festively hung around Community Hall.

Court imposes life sentence in Horvath case

SANDPOINT — A former Bonner County man convicted of murder in North Dakota was sentenced to life without parole on Tuesday, The Williston Herald reports.

County planning new waste site for Blanchard

BLANCHARD — Plans are under way to develop a full-service solid waste collection site in Blanchard, Bonner County Planning Department records show.

Veteran remembers unforgettable holiday

I joined the Navy when I was 17 years old. At Christmas 1945, I was 18 years old, stationed at Subic Bay in the Philippines as a shipman first class and I was very lonely. It was my first Christmas away from home. I was on a patrol craft, PC609. It was about 160 feet long and we had around 65 crew members.

MCC brings Christmas to area families

HOPE — The word “hope” means a lot more to the Memorial Community Center than just the name of a town.

Holiday magic fills students' memories

SANDPOINT — Sugar plums?

Meeting prompts drive to investigate issues

Being concerned resident, I submitted the following request to several officials who attended the closed coal train meeting.

USFS project aims to restore whitebark pine

CLARK FORK — The U.S. Forest Service is seeking public comment on a plan to restore whitebark pine and whitebark pine habitat in the Lightning Creek drainage.

VA needs targeted, meaningful reform

Over the past few months, I have written about efforts to seek input from Idaho veterans about their experiences with veterans’ services.

Parks and Rec youth basketball teams forming

SANDPOINT — Another exciting season of youth hoops is on tap, as Sandpoint Parks and Rec basketball continues to put the fun in fundamentals for area boys and girls in grades 3-8.

Manslaughter suspect to plead guilty

SANDPOINT — A Washington state man accused of accidentally killing another motorist in a head-on collision on U.S. Highway 2 is slated to withdraw his not-guilty plea.

Cell tower planned for Colburn

SANDPOINT — A cell tower is being proposed near the corner of Colburn Culver and Hopkins roads, according to Bonner County Planning Department records.

Jensen, Soderberg lead Thunder boys to win

KOOTENAI — Shayne Jensen filled the stat sheet with 12 points, five steals, four assists, four rebounds and two blocks, leading the Kootenai Thunder boys basketball team to a decisive 49-8 win over Classical Christian Academy in recent Mountain Christian League action.

Forecast: White Christmas still possible

COEUR d’ALENE — Even if you don’t get a white Christmas, you could be in for a white weekend.

Let's be safe out there this Christmas

My niece who’s an intensive care nurse at a Spokane hospital drew the short straw to work through all the holidays this year. On Thanksgiving Day, one of her critically ill patients said, “I can’t believe you’re not home enjoying dinner with your family!”

#3322 PROPOSAL

Request For Proposals The Bottle Bay Recreational Water & Sewer District, Sagle, Idaho is soliciting qualifications from licensed civil engineering firms interested in providing professional contract Project Engineering services for its Wastewater Expansion Project, a public works project. The location will be at 8640 Bottle Bay Road and environs. Details are available on request by emailing Will Valentine/ BBRWSD/ at valentine66@intermaxnetworks.com or by calling (208)255-1114. Responses will be due January 23 at 4:00 pm at BBRWSD/PO Box 304, Sagle, ID 83860 or 146 Stewarts DR, Sagle, ID 83860. SNP Legal 3322 December 26, 2014 January 2, 2015

Hayden council mulls firearms ordinance amendments

HAYDEN — The Hayden City Council tonight will consider amending its firearms ordinance.

Shelter welcomes Wings of Rescue delivery

Dogs faced euthanasia at other shelters

PONDERAY — Eighteen dogs and four puppies from Southern California shelters that practice euthanasia gained brighter futures in North Idaho on Monday.

Randles, Williams lead Bulldog wrestlers at Tri-State Tournament

SANDPOINT — Despite taking only five wrestlers to Tri-State, the Bulldogs more than held their own in one of the premier wrestling tournaments in the Northwest, finishing 27th among 67 schools as wrestlers from four states converged at North Idaho College last weekend.

Policy Analysis Group needs to finish the job

I just read the Policy Analysis Group report regarding the transfer of federal lands to Idaho. This report is so flawed that I can only imagine this was done on purpose. It’s fundamentally hobbled by the limitation of its scope and if taken as complete would bias the Daily Bee reader to think that it would be difficult for the state of Idaho to successfully profit from the transfer — not true.

Something akimbo on social media warnings

Something feels akimbo. Why, in order to warn of any needed changes about the dangers or misuse of the Internet and social media, is the Internet and social media mainly used for those changes?

City needs refresher on Open Meeting Law

Jonathan Gruber, infamous and arrogant Obamacare architect, has nothing on our Sandpoint and other officials, who like to operate in comfortable secrecy to work on their agenda so that — voila! — one day you’ll be served a done deal before you know what hit you.

Permanent blacktop plant plan resurfaces

SAGLE — Permanency is being sought for a temporary asphalt batch plant on the west side of U.S. Highway 95.

When it doubt, open the meeting to public

On Dec. 11, Attorney General Lawrence Wasden was in town giving a three-hour workshop on Idaho’s Open Meeting Law and Public Records Act. It was standing-room only at the library.

Center recognized for positive community impact

Heartwood reels in award

SANDPOINT — Since 2005, the non-profit organization Idaho Smart Growth has presented its Grow Smart Award to municipalities and individual projects, recognizing them for the part they play in creating vibrant communities.

Want to volunteer? Site tells you where

Do you agree that Sandpoint is a wonderful place to live? Do you realize that there are about 200 non-profit organizations that all work hard to make this such a special place? Do you want to do your part?

Marine makes it home for the holidays

SANDPOINT — It was raining when James Hall opened the doors of Sandpoint High School and walked inside.

Embezzlement investigation sent to U.S. Attorney's office

ATHOL — An investigation into the alleged embezzlement of money from the city of Athol has essentially wrapped, and the evidence has been given to the U.S. Attorney’s office.

Renovation of depot is wonderful to see

When I attended Sacred Heart School of nursing in Spokane (1960-1963), at times I would ride the Greyhound bus home to Sandpoint for the weekend. The bus stop was at the Panida News stand at 310 N. First and the Fountain Cafe was next door.

Bulldog boys handle Badgers

BONNERS FERRY — The Sandpoint boys claimed a commanding 71-29 win in Friday's Moose Madness basketball game.

Bulldogs outlast Badgers in triple overtime win

BONNERS FERRY — Four quarters and two overtimes weren’t enough to decide the Moose Madness tilt between the Bulldog and Badger girls, but an 11 point outburst in the third overtime was, as the Bulldogs prevailed 57-54 in a three overtime thriller on Friday night at Bonners Ferry High School.

AG's office looking into corruption complaints

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Attorney General’s Office has received 43 complaints of public corruption since it received additional staff and resources to investigate such cases.

Sportsman charged with license violations

SANDPOINT — Negotiations may resolve criminal charges against a man who is accused of obtaining Idaho resident hunting and fishing privileges while living in Arizona.

Region's grizzly bear population stable

BONNERS FERRY — Two grizzly bear mortalities this year did not impact the long term stable population trend of grizzly bears in the Selkirk Mountains and the Cabinet-Yaak recovery areas, according to the 2014 Autumn Cabinet-Yaak and Selkirk Mountains Grizzly Bear Ecosystems Update.

Gors pours in 21 points in Wampus Cat loss

 WALLACE — Sam Gors had a huge night offensively, but it wasn’t enough, as the Wampus Cats fell behind early and never recovered, falling 53-28 to Wallace in North Star League girls basketball Thursday night at Kirby Krulitz Court.

Bulldogs taking eight wrestlers to Tri-State

COEUR d’ALENE — As technology improves, so has the Tri-State wrestling Invitational, which starts today at North Idaho College.

Event unleashes a 'purrfect' Christmas

PONDERAY — If someone told Dr. Marty Becker adopting a pet during the holidays is a bad idea, he would respond that “smoking is a good idea.”

Parties seek trial in SilverWing lawsuit

SANDPOINT — Mediation and arbitration have failed to gain any loft in SilverWing at Sandpoint’s federal suit against Bonner County.

Grinch swipes Dover treetop

DOVER — A Grinch swiped the top of a storm-damaged tree near the Westside Fire District Station over the weekend, presumably for use as a Christmas tree.

Rotary Club of Sandpoint named month's top business

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce has recognized the Rotary Club of Sandpoint as December’s Business of the Month.

Bulldogs beat Badgers for B-Cup title

BONNERS FERRY — The coveted B-Cup trophy will remain in the Bulldogs’ possession, after Sandpoint downed Bonners Ferry 48-33 on Tuesday night in a double-dual at Bonners Ferry High School.

'Twas the week before Christmas …

‘Twas the week before Christmas and all through the city,

Kokanee project swimming along

BAYVIEW — Idaho Department of Fish & Game biologists admit they weren’t sure if the spawning habitat project on Lake Pend Oreille would draw in kokanee.

New fire agency ponders name

SANDPOINT — With Sagle Fire District and Sandpoint Fire Department combining operations, local officials believe it’s time for a new identity.

What was really the point of BCHRTF ad?

On Friday, Dec. 5, the Bonner County Human Rights Task Force paid for a full page ad in the Daily Bee.

United States has become a plutocracy

I have long believed that America has become a plutocracy — government of the wealthy, by the wealthy, for the wealthy.

Commission seeking lake level certainties

DOVER — The Idaho Lakes Commission is refining a position document that’s meant to bring certainty to the management of water levels in Lake Pend Oreille.

Sleep apnea needs to be treated properly

Here’s an interesting report out of White Plains, N.Y., published Monday in USA Today: “A New York commuter railroad committee Monday approved a contract to hire a firm to test engineers for obstructive sleep apnea after a fatal crash in 2013 was determined to be the result of the engineer suffering from the illness.

County accepts East Shore Road into program

SANDPOINT — Bonner County commissioners unanimously agreed on Tuesday to accept a nine-mile stretch of road at Priest Lake that deviates from county design standards in nearly a half-dozen respects.

Bowen, Anderson lead Wampus Cats past Tigers

MULLAN — Brandan Bowen and Eich Anderson had strong games, leading Clark Fork to a 50-42 win over Mullan in a North Star League boys basketball opener on Tuesday at the Mullan Pavilion.

Bulldogs run out of gas in loss to Tigers

SPIRIT LAKE — The road-weary Bulldogs built a six point halftime lead, but couldn’t close the deal, falling 44-32 to Timberlake in nonleague girls basketball action on Tuesday night at Timberlake High School.

Hearings lead council agenda

SANDPOINT — Two public hearings head up the last regular council meeting of 2014.

Man pleads to unauthorized use of forest

COEUR d’ALENE — A Blanchard man accused of posing as a U.S. Forest Service official in a bid to acquire 240 acres of timberland pleaded guilty Thursday to a reduced charge.

Environmentalists are in control of the city

Last week’s closed meeting on coal and oil trains, attended by Sandpoint, county, and state officials as well as select invitees from environmentalist organizations, shows that this city and region is on a serious course to be run by environmentalists.

We must speak up on crude oil shipments

As a resident living along a rail route hauling Bakken crude oil shipments from North Dakota to West Coast ports, I am concerned.

Meeting smacks of 'railroading' by LPOW

In a move that can be called many things, none of them good, the Sandpoint mayor convened a meeting on oil and coal trains last week to which only a few chosen public and elected officials along with folks from environmentalist organizations were invited. We, the citizens, were not, and the mayor actually told a citizen to leave when he tried to attend.

Business as usual for the city of Sandpoint?

We all know that perceptions can create an air of distrust when it comes to public figures and events. Mayor Carrie Logan’s denial of public access to a recent meeting gives the impression that someone had something to hide and to call it “… just an informal meeting …” is a lame excuse for an error in judgment.

Kiebert, Gors lead Wampus Cats to first win

CLARK FORK — Leslie Kiebert and Sam Gors each made three shots from beyond the arc, combining for 24 points to lead Clark Fork to a 34-27 win over Hot Springs in nonleague girls basketball on Saturday in Plains, Montana.

Tips sought in moose poaching

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Department of Fish & Game is seeking the public’s help in finding the culprit behind a moose poaching incident.

Soderberg brothers lead Thunder boys to victory

KOOTENAI — Peter Soderberg stuffed the stat sheet with 15 points, six rebounds and four steals, and Shane Jensen 10 points, six assists, six steals, four rebounds and three blocks, leading the Kootenai Thunder to a 60-45 home win over Immaculate Conception of Post Falls recently in Mountain Christian League boys basketball action.

BCHA helps families own homes

SANDPOINT — It’s been a big year for the Bonner Community Housing Agency.

Some claims still survive in Schweitzer suit

SANDPOINT — Schweitzer has been granted partial summary judgment on some claims filed by a Texas woman who sued the resort after suffering a head injury in its inner tubing park.

New shop joins 'Music Row'

    SANDPOINT — Nashville lays claim to the original name, but downtown Sandpoint now has a Music Row of its own.

Elks help secure nation's legacy

I wish to publicly thank the Sandpoint Elks Lodge No. 1376 for their generous donation of almost 1000 pocket-sized US Constitution booklets.

City seeks input for new website

SANDPOINT — City officials are set on reshaping the online presence of Sandpoint, but they need the community’s help.

Safe Routes To School encourages safe walking

How pedestrian savvy are we?

Trains are a part of Sandpoint life

Great letter Pat Ramsey had about people complaining about trains traveling through Sandpoint (Dec. 2, 2014). He said it for many of us.

Do you think the city of Sandpoint was right in closing a recent meeting about oil and coal trains?

B&B tour welcomes season

It’s a holiday tradition with an open-door policy, and all are welcome to step inside.

Bulldog wrestlers ninth at Inland Empire tourney

SPOKANE — A handful of Bulldogs claimed first round wins, leading Sandpoint to a ninth-place team finish on day one of the 18 team Inland Empire Wrestling Tournament Friday night at Central Valley High School.

No. 5 Lake City takes down Bulldogs to avenge loss

COEUR d’ALENE — Coming into Friday night, Sandpoint was the only girls basketball team to beat Lake City this season.

DOJ: Tribes can sell, grow marijuana

GRANTS PASS, Ore. — Indian tribes can grow and sell marijuana on their lands as long as they follow the same federal conditions laid out for states that have legalized the drug, the U.S. Department of Justice said Thursday.

Norris drops 24 points in loss to Lake City

COEUR d’ALENE — With only two returnees from last year’s team, Lake City’s boys basketball team is forming its own identidy this year.

City defends decision to bar public

SANDPOINT — The city is aggressively defending its decision to shut the public out of a meeting involving oil and coal train traffic issues on Thursday.

Kalispel share culture, heritage

SANDPOINT — Despite superficial appearances, Kalispel and European-based heritages aren’t all that different on a fundamental level.

Sandpoint bars public from rail issues meeting

SANDPOINT — The city denies violating the state’s open meeting law the same day Idaho Attorney General Lawrence Wasden was in town to educate officials and the public on that very law.

Bulldogs sweep duals

SPIRIT LAKE — Sandpoint head coach Mike Randles had high praise for the wrestling of freshmen Tucker Hall (126) and Hyrum Hunsaker (138), who each picked up pins to lead Sandpoint to a 53-30 win over Timberlake in a double dual Wednesday night at Timberlake High School.

Education is the focus of man's sentence

BONNERS FERRY — Instead of time in jail for vehicular manslaughter, a Bonners Ferry man will be required to talk to driver’s education classes about the dangers of distracted driving.

Quick thinking, response save local man's life

SANDPOINT — Training and a coordinated response are credited with saving the life of a local man who plunged a knife into his chest in a crowded downtown bar early Wednesday morning.

Legion offers help in recruiting VA doctors

POST FALLS — National American Legion representative met with about 80 veterans in Post Falls Wednesday afternoon to discuss issues with the Veterans Administration Hospital in Spokane.

Moose Madness set to ensue in North Idaho

SANDPOINT — Grab the ear plugs and warm up the lungs, as the 7th annual Moose Madness spirit competition between the Bulldogs and Badgers is set to ensue on Dec. 16.

Why do trains trump our need to travel?

After watching the last of 111 oil tanker railroad cars passing from view down the tracks along Great Northern Road, I shake my head and wonder — what’s ahead for Sandpoint? A few days prior, driving to Coeur d’Alene, I saw another tanker with 106 cars parked on the tracks at Sagle, waiting, blocking several county railroad crossings. Further down Highway 95, there was an Amtrak train, stopped, waiting, certainly several hours behind schedule. Still further south was another tanker train, stopped, waiting — for what — another oil tanker train?

Will Delta's courage inspire other firms?

While Tea Party Republicans in Congress were talking about shutting down the government (again), this time to retaliate against President Barack Obama’s action to reform immigration laws, a leader in the business community has defended his action.

Students' projects mix ideas, learning

SANDPOINT — Video games are a major passion for Breann LaBorde, especially when it comes to their portrayal in media.

Video proves training must be rethought

I have always been a supporter of the Bonner County Human Rights Task Force and have been appreciative of the work that organization has done over the years.

Sentence stands in Jacobson killing

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Court of Appeals is rejecting yet another effort by a Sandpoint man to have his life sentence reduced for his role in the killing a U.S. Forest Service law officer in 1989.

Cats start fast in loss to Trojans JV

CLARK FORK — Facing arguably the toughest pressure they’ll see all year, Clark Fork lost 74-48 to the Post Falls JV in home action on Tuesday night.

Area legislators secure committee assignments

SANDPOINT — With a new legislative session looming, local legislators have secured committee assignments to build Idaho law from the ground up.

Bulldogs can't close the deal

KELLOGG — Davan Norris scored a team high 14 points, but the Bulldogs committed too many turnovers, which proved costly in a 56-48 loss to Kellogg in nonleague boys basketball Tuesday night at Andrews Gymnasium.

IFG: Kokanee spawning totals see a big year

COEUR d’ALENE — Fishery managers collected 9.25 million eggs from spawning Lake Pend Oreille kokanee that returned to Granite Creek this winter.

Wampus Cats fall short against Trojans

CLARK FORK — A slow start offensively proved costly for Clark Fork, which didn’t score a point until the second quarter, ultimately falling 43-36 to the Post Falls J2 team in nonleague girls basketball Tuesday night at Clark Fork High School.

Bulldog girls grind out win

KELLOGG — Sandpoint has shown the ability to win track meets, and on Tuesday night, it showed the ability to win a tractor pull, grinding out a 27-24 defensive slugfest over Kellogg in nonleague girls basketball at Andrews Gymnasium.

New publisher comes to the Daily Bee

The Hagadone Corporation announced this week that veteran newspaper publisher Jim McKiernan would take the helm of the Bonner County Daily Bee, Bonner Ferry Herald and the Priest River Times.

Violence caused by proliferation of guns

After listening for the last month to the endless chatter about police brutality, cops being too quick to shoot, racism, etc., particularly with inner city youth, poor people and even mental illness (recall our Sandpoint cops), I want to just scream.

Sandpoint chamber welcomes Phones Plus

PONDERAY — Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce officials welcomed Phones Plus with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark opening of the company’s second location last month.

Accidental code input triggers SMS lock-down

SANDPOINT — An accidental alarm activation put Sandpoint Middle School into lock-down mode and Sandpoint into lock-out mode on Monday.

Clark siblings ready to compete at XC Nationals

Local students set to represent Sandpoint at USTAF Nationals

SANDPOINT — Many of the top youth cross country runners in the country will toe the line on Saturday at United States Track and Field nationals in South Carolina, and among the ranks will be Sandpoint runners Trey and Ara Clark.

Governing entities need to report information

Idaho passed new legislation in the 2014 session that requires local governing entities to report their organization’s information on the new Legislative Service Offices online portal between Jan. 1, 2015, and March 1, 2015. The portal must then be updated annually.

Library expanding as its mission evolves

SANDPOINT — The East Bonner County Library is gaining more elbow room as its role within the community expands.

Relative newcomer inhabits North Idaho waters

COEUR d’ALENE — A newcomer is establishing itself in North Idaho.

U.S. is not a democracy

Several recent letters to the editor have mentioned that we no longer have a democracy due to the behavior of Obama. I have news for them. We lost all of that on Nov. 22, 1963, when President Kennedy was assassinated.

All non-service dogs should be left at home

The Food and Drug Administration does not permit live animals, with the strict exception of service animals, on the premises of grocery stores, restaurants or other food establishments.

Maybe we need a vote on train issue

Thinking of trains as part of the Dark Ages is conveniently ignoring the billions of dollars that California wants to spend on a train from Los Angeles to San Francisco.

City votes to erase parking loopholes

SANDPOINT — When it comes to public parking, the city aims to keep residents playing by the rules with a new ordinance prohibiting the removal of tire markings.

American Legion calls foul on Spokane VA town hall plans

Regional leaders of the nation’s largest veterans service organization say it appears that Spokane Veterans Administration officials are trying to upstage efforts to hold their own town hall meeting next week in Post Falls.

Group seeking to help folks this winter

As winter falls we are looking to put together a list of addresses (names are voluntary) for individuals or families who are disabled or otherwise unable to provide snow removal for sidewalks, driveways, and walkways at their residences. The service will be coordinated and carried out via an informal volunteer group called the Bonner County Kindness Un-Authority. If you’d like to reach out to this group or join in the fun, you can find us on Facebook (where else?) under the same name.

'The goal is to get stronger as the season goes on'

SANDPOINT — The Clark Fork girls basketball team is hoping eight is enough this season, and we’re not talking about the old Dick Van Patten television show from the late '70s.

Water pact changes top lake meeting

DOVER — The Idaho Lakes Commission discuss the abandonment of a proposal to use releases from Lake Pend Oreille to moderate downstream water temperatures when it meets on Tuesday, Dec. 16.

Manslaughter case heads to jury trial

SANDPOINT — A Washington state man is rejecting a plea offer to resolve a vehicular manslaughter case against him.

State appeals court upholds man's drug conviction

BONNERS FERRY — The Idaho Court of Appeals is affirming a felony drug conviction in Boundary County even though inadequate foundation was laid for testimony on the weight of the marijuana.

Wampus Cats hoping team unity takes them far

CLARK FORK — The physical pieces are there, as the Clark Fork boys will have height down low and athleticism in the backcourt when they take to the hardwood this season.

Forest plan approval aids Scotchman proposal

SANDPOINT — Proponents of the proposed Scotchman Peaks Wilderness are hopeful that approval of forest management plans in Idaho and Montana will give the proposal additional traction.

Bulldogs handle business in opener

SANDPOINT — Boasting the most depth they’ve had in years, the Bulldog wrestling team claimed a convincing 53-18 win over Priest River in a wrestling season opener on Thursday at Sandpoint High School.

Sandpoint ProBuild closing its doors

SANDPOINT — ProBuild Holdings officials announced this week they are closing the Sandpoint location due to insufficient business.

Wampus Cats fall to Badgers

CLARK FORK — Geoffry Boudousquie posted a double-double with 11 points and 10 boards and Eich Anderson scored 12 to lead the Wampus Cats, but a brief period of the third quarter proved the difference, as the Bonners Ferry JV scored a 56-47 win over Clark Fork in a nonleague boys basketball season opener at Clark Fork High School on Thursday.

New art studio and gallery celebrates with holiday open house

SANDPOINT — Kevin Watson doesn’t look at things the same way as other people. To him, a thick slab of wood becomes the foundation for Passage, a boat-like sculpture, pear sticks, steel and leather are transformed into an assembly called She Sees the Ocean. So when he passed by the former Darigold distribution building at 525 Oak St. on a daily basis, Watson saw potential in the humble cement block building.

VA holding town hall talk on health care

SPOKANE — The U.S. Veterans Administration is holding a town hall meeting Monday to discuss new changes to its health care delivery system, which could affect an estimated 25,000 veterans in North Idaho.

Wampus Cat girls fall short in home opener

CLARK FORK — Leslie Kiebert scored seven points to lead the Wampus Cats, who simply didn’t have the depth to match the Bonners Ferry JV team, falling 67-20 in home opening action.

Bulldog wrestling program continues to climb ranks

SANDPOINT — There was a time back in the day that Sandpoint was the top wrestling team in the state, if not the northwest.

Police: Video doesn't support stabbing claim

SANDPOINT — Surveillance video does not appear to support a woman’s claim that she was stabbed during a scuffle in the 219 Lounge, according to Sandpoint Police Chief Corey Coon.

Train number more a concern than noise

A second opinion. My name is also Pat Ramsey, but I did not write the letter that appeared in the Bee on Tuesday, Dec. 2, referencing the complaints about train noise. More than noise related issues, I am much more concerned with the increase in number and weight of trains traveling through Sandpoint, especially those carrying uncovered coal and hazardous materials.

Sandpoint taking fire merger plan for test drive

SANDPOINT — For fire protection personnel, a joint powers agreement is a test run for a permanent fire district merger.

The problems with being LGBT

A recent letter in the Bee pointed out some of the many serious problems faced by gay males in our society. The list included shorter lifespan and higher rates of STDs, suicide, substance abuse, and domestic violence than in the heterosexual community.

Train whistles are a welcome sound

I’m with you, Pat — I like the trains! I grew up with that sound and I find it comforting. When I’m away from home and the night is silent it’s as if something is missing.

It's time to get out of dark ages with trains

After reading the letter to the editor about trains I agree trains have been here a long time and before that there were horse and buggies and whale oil lamps.

Fire damages Kootenai home

KOOTENAI — No injuries were reported following a structure fire which destroyed a lean-to and damaged a home on North Kootenai Road on Wednesday afternoon.

#3285 OCT 28

NOTICE October 28, 2014 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT – Accepted the Estimate for Change Order #1 from Fogg Electric in the amount of $6,700; accepted the BHS-DOT grant # HM-HMP-0445-14-01-00 in the amount of $36,000; accepted the Hazardous Material Emergency Preparedness Planning Grant resolution # 14 – 86 authorizing the Director of Emergency Management to manage, prepare, sign and submit Homeland Security reports. PROSECUTOR – motion made to annex the parcel of property known as the City of Hope into the Sam Owen Fire District; motion to annex the parcel of property known as the Latronico Property incorporated in the Order of Annexation, into the Sam Owen Fire District; motion to annex the parcel of property known as the McCarthy Property incorporated in the Order of Annexation, into the Sam Owen Fire District; motion to annex the parcel known as the Wakefield Property incorporated in the Order of Annexation, into the Sam Owen Fire District. PLANNING – directed the planning staff to review and work with the Fire Chiefs toward an amendment to Title 11 (Building Regulations), Section 11-110(D), for consideration by the Board of County Commissioners at a public hearing to be scheduled at a later date; approved a final time extension for File # C930-10 to November 24, 2016. SANDPOINT AIRPORT – approve this SURA funded change order # 1 for runway repair project in the amount of $43,170.00 with RPI. PRIEST RIVER AIRPORT –approved the agreement with ES Engineering for services at the Priest River Airport, priced at $100.00 per hour and in no case to exceed $1,200; approved the Quarterly Performance Report for the Priest River Airport Master Plan Project. MISCELLANEOUS - approved Claims in Batch #2 totaling $736,846.19; approve EMS Claims in Batch #2 totaling $34,753.52. ASSISTANCE - October 22, 2014 Kevin Rothenberger met with the Board to discuss the following files: Denied: 2015-001; 2015-003. SPECIAL MEETINGS held pursuant to Idaho Code §67-2343(2): October 20, 2014 a Debriefing Meeting; and an update from the Area Agency on Aging; October 22, 2014 a Planning Public Hearing; and October 27, 2014 a Debriefing Meeting. SNP Legal 3285 December 4, 2014

Sandpoint shooting cited in CBS report

SANDPOINT — The deadly officer-involved shooting in Sandpoint was cited Tuesday in a CBS Evening News report about President Barack Obama’s desire to see more officers fitted with body cameras.

Choking can be serious hazard to your health

Joni had everyone in the room rolling with laughter. Not that the group was insensitive to her frightening story of choking on a bit of turkey while her family was engrossed in a football game, but because they knew it had a happy ending. She was telling it, after all.

Plea offer is made in case

SANDPOINT — A plea offer is on the table in a vehicular manslaughter case resulting from a U.S. Highway 2 crash that killed a Washington state woman.

Sandpoint native named Boston's first digital officer

SANDPOINT — With the advent of the Internet and the age of social media, cities have more options than ever when it comes to serving their residents.

Bulldogs amp up the pressure in opener

SANDPOINT — As advertised, the Bulldogs used full court defensive pressure, an up-tempo offense and balanced scoring, running past the Spartans 73-24 in a nonleague boys basketball season opener on Tuesday night at Les Rogers Court.

New BCEMS hire steeped in experience

SANDPOINT — Benjamin Dowdy has been hired as a full-time paramedic for Bonner County Emergency Medical Services, Chief Bob Bussey has announced.

Accused home invader pleads not guilty

SANDPOINT — A transient accused of attacking a family with bear attack deterrent spray during a home-invasion robbery pleaded not guilty Monday to a suite of felony charges.

More than 1,000 veterans complete survey

Thank you to the more than 1,000 of Idaho’s veterans who have taken the time to share their experiences with veterans’ services through a survey I recently conducted.

First year coach looking to guide Bulldogs back to state

Leiss begins 25th year as high school coach at Sandpoint

SANDPOINT — As the head basketball coach for 10 years at Coeur d’Alene High School recently, Kent Leiss got an up close look at Sandpoint, always marveling at the level of athletes the Bulldogs put on the floor.

Talks under way on EPA permit

SANDPOINT — The updated terms of a renewed Environmental Protection Agency permit could end up escalating costs to the city’s wastewater treatment plant.

The trains were here before the complaints

One questions for the guy (Karl Fuchs) complaining about the trains traveling through Sandpoint and the associated noise.

ISP investigating fugitive's death following standoff

COEUR d’ALENE — Idaho State Police investigators are looking into the death of a fugitive whose body was found inside a Coeur d’Alene home early Sunday following a standoff that began Saturday night.