Ellington

I know the Constitution and commandments

I know the Constitution and what the commandments are.

Dr. Dick Smart, 69

Richard “Dick” Smart was surrounded by his family when he passed away peacefully at his home in Coeur d’Alene on March 28, 2014.

Local conservation projects rank high nationally

SANDPOINT — Two proposals to protect sprawling tracts of forest land from development in the Panhandle have ranked as high priorities for federal funding.

Welcoming means respecting all views

I find it very interesting that Mr. Millheim wanted to move to Sandpoint because of its welcoming of all viewpoints. Really? Now that he’s here, he wants silence or at least remove from view a certain viewpoint he doesn’t agree with. What happened to his welcoming of all viewpoints?

Christians aren't that different from the Taliban

If you are a Christian. And if you believe that your particular religious beliefs are the only true, correct and authentic religious beliefs. If you believe that your religion has been ordained by God to become the only religion that anyone should follow. And if you take the position that your religious beliefs should be applied to everyone else through the facilities of majority rule and force of law. How, then, are you different than the Taliban?

Hall Mountain preserves link

BONNERS FERRY — A proposed conservation easement at Hall Mountain in Boundary County aims to protect 2,885 acres of habitat within an internationally recognized wildlife corridor.

PR man enters not guilty plea

COEUR d’ALENE — A 22-year-old Priest River man accused of shooting at law enforcement officers during a high-speed chase in December pleaded not guilty Friday in Kootenai County District Court.

Chalich, Linehan vie for QB job at Vandals spring practice

MOSCOW — The reward for Chad Chalich earning the starting quarterback job at Idaho last fall as a redshirt freshman — he has to win the job again this fall.

Cd'A Casino announces poker plans

COEUR d’ALENE — The Idaho Constitution outlaws poker, but the Coeur d’Alene Tribe is going all in.

Megaloads could roll through Bonner County

SANDPOINT — Megaloads could be rolling through Bonner County this spring.

Delta restoration could start this summer

Full funding is still in question

SANDPOINT — A massive project to restore the fading Clark Fork River Delta is slated to start this year if environmental clearances are secured.

Man arrested after pursuit

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint man was arrested following a brief high-speed chase on the west side of town last week.

Tests confirm meningitis

SANDPOINT — Tests have confirmed that a Sandpoint Middle School teacher contracted neisseria bacterial meningitis during a recent trip.

Youth shine at 24 Hours of Schweitzer fundraiser

More than $100,000 raised for cystinosis

SANDPOINT — Bolstered by sunny skies, good weather and the generosity of the Sandpoint community, 24 Hours of Schweitzer raised more than $100,000 at one of the largest cystinosis fundraisers in the country, bringing the 24 Hours for Hank Foundation’s fundraising total to more than $725,000 in six years.

Hopefully, encounter was just a mere fluke

My husband and I came to visit my parents recently and witnessed something that has been weighing heavy on my heart.

Hospice group helps us help each other

Approximately five months ago my son died. That’s why I’m writing this letter. It has come to my attention that my son was not the only child to die before the passing on of one’s parents. News of death by health disorder, car accident, train mishap or gunfire occurs regularly, even in this small community. Many parents are grieving the loss of their son or daughter and they don’t know there are others with the same type of pain.

Downstream demands may face push-back

DOVER — Momentum is gathering behind efforts to countervail downstream interests’ covetous eyes on Lake Pend Oreille’s water.

Trials ordered in home-invasion robbery case

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint man was ordered Wednesday to stand trial in connection with a home-invasion robbery in which an Elmira man was shot in the face and doused with gasoline.

Ten Commandments are good rules for life

Let’s keep the Ten Commandments monument in Farmin Park. Thank you to the Eagles for your gift of the monument many years ago, and thank you again for saying your preference is to let it remain where it is — much appreciated. It seems to me this monument is grandfathered in.

Trial date set in murder case

SANDPOINT — A former Sandpoint man accused of a deadly shooting during an altercation in North Dakota is scheduled to be tried this summer.

Bulldogs 'get monkey off back' with win

SANDPOINT — Aggressive base running by senior Chase Rodriguez manufactured the winning run, as the Bulldogs ended a lengthy losing streak with a 3-2 win over Bonners Ferry on Tuesday in a home opener at Pine St. Field.

Third added to city street plan

SANDPOINT — A section of Third Avenue is now officially a part of the downtown streets design guide.

Bulldogs defeat Badgers in doubleheader

SANDPOINT — Sophomore Cody Baldree had two doubles among her three hits, also driving in three runs and scoring three times to lead the Bulldogs past the Badgers 12-2 in the first game of a doubleheader on Tuesday in nonleague softball action at Sandpoint Middle School.

Information is critical to understanding IBD

“I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed, guilty, lost, stuck, clueless, helpless, uninformed, sad and any other negative emotion that could take one’s happiness hostage,” a woman wrote on the forum pages of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America’s website.

Bridge, widening are a matter of when

The Sand Creek Byway is completed and the widening of U.S. Highway 95 in Ponderay is nearing completion, but it remains unclear when the two remaining segments of the sprawling Sandpoint North & South project will be constructed.

Schweitzer celebrates a golden season

SANDPOINT — At the grand old age of 50, Schweitzer Mountain Resort has reached the point where it has nothing to prove, but it still has a few tricks up its sleeve.

Mid-pool reservoirs are a better solution

The Columbia River Treaty: “Silent Spring” in British Columbia.

Natural life operates in harmonic ways

In regard to negative letters, there is an impersonal system design feature that renders discordant life expression self-destructive, actually suicidal.

Kootenai man charged with lewd conduct

SANDPOINT — Another Bonner County resident has been indicted on lewd-and-lascivious conduct charges by a grand jury.

Sandpoint Arts Alliance closes doors

SANDPOINT — After seven years of promoting community art, the Sandpoint Arts Alliance has closed its doors.

Love your neighbors, show kindness to all

I am confused by all the violence we see in our newspapers, movies, TV, video games that our children watch.

Ignorance is not an acceptable excuse

I don’t know Steve Tanner of Bonners Ferry but he was “right on” in his letter (”We must return to God’s standards, Feb. 20, Daily Bee).

If you can't afford kids, just don't have them

As a species, we continue to turn a blind eye toward our overpopulation of this planet. We give little thought to the 360,000 humans born each and every day. Isn’t it about time to adjust our perceived “holier than thou” human superiority attitude? If you can’t afford to support them, don’t have them. It isn’t society’s responsibility to support your children.

Jail escapee apprehended

NEWPORT — An escaped Pend Oreille County Jail inmate was arrested Saturday, ending more than a month on the lam.

Adhere to principles of the monument

The Sandpoint City Council is charged with the responsibility to protect the health and welfare of its citizens.

Funding helps BCHA boost home ownership

SANDPOINT — Thanks to a recent acquisition of funding, Bonner Community Housing Agency is giving more people a shot at home ownership.

Idaho Legislature wraps up '14 session

“Sine die” — Latin for “without a day fixed” — are the words used at adjournment for the end of the state legislative session which was Thursday, March 20. This was the second shortest session in the last 14 years. We addressed many important issues, did not address others, and focused on growing the economy and balancing the budget.

Basin board meeting set

DOVER — Clark Fork Delta restoration efforts, temperature modeling in the Pend Oreille River and the level of Lake Pend Oreille will be discussed when the Lakes Commission meets on Wednesday.

New system helps LPOSD keep kids safe

SANDPOINT — When it comes to parents and their kids’ safety, there’s no such thing as too much information.

What's the problem?

The Ten Commandments aren’t so much a religious monument as they are a basis of law that was written for society at the time of their authorship.

Sandpoint softball players show their grit

SANDPOINT — After helping lead their team to a third place finish last fall at the Masters World Softball Championships in Las Vegas, a trio of Sandpoint softball players are gearing up for the 2014 season.

LPOW seeks contest votes

SANDPOINT — Online voting could be the key to a new Lake Pend Oreille Waterkeeper program that will recruit boaters to the cause of clean local waters.

SMS warns of possible case of meningitis

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint Middle School officials are advising parents to keep an eye on their kids after a teacher was hospitalized this week with possible bacterial meningitis.

Board rescinds meeting recording ban

LACLEDE — The Laclede Water District swiftly rescinded a proposed policy Thursday to prohibit members of the public from making audio or video recordings during open meetings.

State lawmakers call it 'sine die' for 2014 session

BOISE — At the end of a long day Thursday, the 2014 Idaho Legislature wrapped up its 74-day session.

Farmin Stidwell team undefeated

The Farmin Stidwell A 5th/6th boys city rec basketball team recently wrapped up an undefeated season, finishing with a perfect record of 6-0.

Lund family hits the slopes for Hank

SANDPOINT — A family that skis together, stays together — or at least until it’s freezing cold in the middle of the night and you’re tearing down the same run for the 120th time.

Eagles: Keep monument at Farmin Park

SANDPOINT — The members of Sandpoint Eagles Auxiliary decided Thursday that their preference is for the Ten Commandments monument to stay in Farmin Park.

Talk to your vet about your options today

Many of us have been encouraged to discuss end-of-life health care issues with our physicians. Have you considered having a similar discussion with your veterinarian re: your pet’s care? I urge you to do so.

Sandpoint council debates monument's future

Crowd calls on city to keep Ten Commandments at park

SANDPOINT — Most who attended Wednesday’s meeting want the city’s Ten Commandment’s monument to stay right where it is — at Farmin Park.

Johnson leads softball team to championship

SANDPOINT — Dottie Johnson has graced the earth for 62 years, and remarkably, has been playing softball for 56 of them. For the math impaired, the Sandpoint resident has been enjoying her favorite sport for 90 percent of the years she’s been alive.

For legislators, the rules only apply to us

Once again, our Legislature has shown that the rules they set for us shouldn’t apply to them. To be fair, that indictment only applies of a certain few.

FEMA grant being sought

SANDPOINT — Bonner County is seeking another federal grant in a bid to resolve a floodway development violation that poses a threat to flood insurance rates for landowners.

Open park to all religions, beliefs

Regarding the Ten Commandments: I was wondering that instead of removing the monument, why not open the park to monuments of all religions and beliefs.

No one knows what commandments are

Why make a fuss over Ten Commandments monuments when nobody knows exactly what the commandments are?

Move would serve all of society's needs

The City Council might consider moving the Ten Commandments monument to the front of the Tam O’Shanter. Thus there would be two local icons in close proximity, each serving some desired need of society.

Film sings praises of harp guitars

Trio craft documentary about instrument’s culture, history

SANDPOINT — It’s hard to ignore a harp guitar when you first lay eyes on one.

Couple shows the true meaning of friendship

Dear Sandpoint and Ponderay readers of the Bonner County Daily Bee,

Spencer: Move to take over committee about giving choices

COEUR d’ALENE — He has been talking about it for a couple of years now, but just last week Larry Spencer decided to just do it.

County EMS chief put on paid leave

SANDPOINT — Bonner County Emergency Medical Services Chief Robert Wakeley has been placed on administrative leave pending a disciplinary hearing, according to county commissioners.

Bunty murder trial date set

SANDPOINT — A 12-day jury trial has been set in the case of a Cocolalla businessman accused of robbing and killing two men in southern California in 1995.

Vikings rout Bulldogs in openers

COEUR d’ALENE — Brooke Albertson drove in eight runs and homered twice, leading the Vikings past the Bulldogs 25-0 and 16-1 in a season opening nonleague doubleheader Tuesday at Larry Schwenke Field.

Month shines spotlight on colorectal cancer

We had Mardi Gras, then St. Patrick’s Day, and many of you might not know that today is World Poultry Day, but the whole month is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and it’s time I shared the good news, bad news story about this disease that’s the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S.

Group joins 'ag-gag' suit

SANDPOINT — A local vegetarian group is joining a national effort to overturn an Idaho bill prohibiting documentation of animal agriculture activities.

Trial in SilverWing suit on hold

SANDPOINT — A jury trial in SilverWing at Sandpoint’s suit against Bonner County has been called off, according to U.S. District Court records.

Spring would not be same without Lost in the '50s

I overheard a conversation the other day about Lost in the ’50s food booth fundraiser. I asked “does anybody know if Lost in the ’50s is happening this year?” They all looked at me as though they couldn’t imagine what I was talking about.

Chamber welcomes Northwest Autobody

SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome Northwest Autobody in Ponderay — its second location.

Bulldogs asking 'why not us' this season

SANDPOINT — Stealing a successful page from Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson, Sandpoint head softball coach Derek Dickinson has been preaching a “why not us” philosophy to his team this year, hoping to ride some power bats to a district title and trip to state.

Expedite the retirement of all the incumbents

It’s been nearly a year since Idaho signed on to Obamacare in the form of a state health insurance exchange, aided by our trio of N. Idaho representatives.

Come see the sights at the Sandpoint City Zoo

I recently went to the Sandpoint City Zoo, it’s not like the San Diego Zoo or the Tacoma Zoo but Sandpoint does have a small, interesting and fun zoo. It’s located on West Lake Street. They have several jackasses or donkeys, they may be burros. There is one older rhinoceros. The RINO is an albino, double horned, quite rare outside of Kenya, South Africa.

Updated boating law awaits adoption

SANDPOINT — A bill to improve Idaho’s law against grossly negligent operation  of a vessel was delivered to the governor’s office on Monday, according to District 1 state Sen. Shawn Keough.

Presnell leads Bulldog golfers in Lewiston

LEWISTON — Senior Jared Presnell fired a 98, the lone Bulldog to break 100 amid terrible golfing conditions at the Lewiston Invitational, held Monday at the Lewiston Country Club.

Head on over to library for great jazz

Attention jazz fans:

Don't just complain, be part of the solution

George Thornton should be more honest about the ownership, and management of “… public lands,” at least those in Idaho, and he should name the Republicans who “… stated they want to sell off public lands … to private entities.” Perhaps he knows only a small part of the whole story.

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The country requires a contrite spirit

The country requires

Students prepare for Mexico trip

SANDPOINT — Most Sandpoint Music Conservatory students can’t speak Spanish, but their imminent trip to Mexicali, Baja California in Mexico will still keep a conversation alive.

School program inspires compassion

SANDPOINT – The road to finding a state of grace can be easy and direct or long and arduous. Lindy Lewis had to take the latter route to discover self-kindness.

Don't let party politics cloud your judgement

Americans are facing political party fascism. The basic objective is to buy votes and thereby supersede or subvert the in-dwelling God-given wisdom of the voter. This is money-mongering fascism. (Time magazine’s March 3 edition covered the problem).

Do you think religious monuments of any kind have a place on public property?

Father, daughter fare well at nationals

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint’s Farli Boden, 13, originally registered to race as a junior at the recent U.S. Telemark National Championships at Bromley Mountain and Haystack Mountain in Vemont.

NIC switching to new league

COEUR d’ALENE — They’re going regional.

Seniors, freshmen to power 2014 Bulldog golf team

SANDPOINT — A pair of talented seniors will join a pair of strong freshman newcomers to give the Sandpoint boys golf team a legitimate shot at state, as the 2014 season tees off in North Idaho.

Candidates file for state, local races

SANDPOINT — The race for the District 1 seat on the Bonner County commission is a busy one.

Trial postponed in city's suit against district

SANDPOINT — A five-day jury trial in the city’s lawsuit against the Independent Highway District is being pushed back to the fall.

PLSAR searching for volunteers

SANDPOINT — Priest Lake Search & Rescue is searching for volunteers to broaden the ranks of its Sandpoint Detachment.

Massive drug sting nets 29 arrests in 20 locations

More than 100 federal, state and local law enforcement agents coordinated arrest and search operations Thursday morning at 20 locations in Spokane, North Idaho, Nevada and California.

Caesar's actions put country in jeopardy

I see your plans are going well. You know, destroying the economy, pulling back from our world allies, making alliances with our enemies, taxing the rich out of business, brainwashing the poor, taking control of health care (Affordable Care Act) and education (through Common Core), bypassing the Constitution, usurping the powers of Congress, creating a climate of fear, hatred, greed and envy. Now, using the Federal Communications Commission to control the newspapers, radio and television.

Details emerge in robbery case

SANDPOINT — An Elmira man who was shot in the face following a home-invasion robbery on Monday was also doused with gasoline by his alleged assailants.

If everyone isn't voting, it's not a democracy

In my effort to become a more informed voter, I have learned some frightening facts. I read these letters to the editor and many of you complain about this person or that person or one thing or another. Most people don’t like to talk about politics. They feel it doesn’t matter how you vote or that it will make any difference to even bother. It really is fairly easy to register and vote and please consider this: Less than half of Americans vote and in Idaho it’s even worse — less than one third!

Bulldog baseball team hoping for bounce back season in 2014

SANDPOINT — Last year, the Bulldog boys baseball team failed to win a game. To use an appropriate metaphor, consider that strike one.

Politicians only take care of each other

Re: Idaho incumbent legislator campaign school letter

Pause for a moment and think about God

Have you ever looked up at the stars on a clear cool night? Sure you have! I have even in the old days of fighting forest fires. Looked up into the sky, with the bright stars just twinkling. What a great short rest to the body and mind! The background of fire, smoke, and glowing embers. The smell of sweat, smoke, and dirt.

City: Time to move 10 Commandments

SANDPOINT — An outcry arose Wednesday following word that a Ten Commandments monument may be removed from Farmin Park today.

Sandpoint Nordic Club competes at Yellowstone

SANDPOINT — It was a great experience, as the Sandpoint Nordic youth racing team took 10 skiers over to the Rendezvous Ski Race in West Yellowstone, Mont., recently.   

Finding megaloads route proving to be megahurdle

Highway 200 eyed as alternate route

Finding a route for megaloads to travel through Coeur d’Alene has been a megahurdle.

Heroin traffickers enter guilty pleas

SANDPOINT — Plea agreements have been struck to resolve heroin trafficking cases pending against two Bonner County men, court records show.

Sandpoint Special Olympics team brings home medals

SANDPOINT — It was a long trip for the Sandpoint Special Olympics team, which traveled to Sun Valley recently for the Winter Olympic State Games, but well worth it, as a host of local athletes brought home medals.

Bonner General expands Parkinson's treatment options

Most of us know someone who has Parkinson’s disease. The fourteenth leading cause of death in the United States, it’s estimated to affect over one million people. The Centers for Disease Control figures that 50,000 to 60,000 new cases of Parkinson’s are diagnosed each year.

Health focus of chamber talk Thursday

SANDPOINT – The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce would like welcome area residents and businesses to its March membership meeting, being held at the Ponderay Events Center on Thursday.

WBCSD voters strike down $3.5 million levy

PRIEST RIVER — Voters struck down a West Bonner County School District levy Tuesday with a total of 747 nays versus 550 yays.

Bow deemed 'firearm' in man's arrest

SANDPOINT — Can a hunting bow be construed as a firearm under Idaho law?

Putting no controls on big business unwise

An open letter to Heather Scott:

There are exciting things going on in city

To the citizens of Sandpoint:

Arrest warrants lead to standoff

SANDPOINT — A standoff between law enforcement and subjects wanted on arrest warrants blocked off a portion of North Ella Avenue on Monday night.

Pipe bomb injures two in Bonners Ferry

BONNERS FERRY — Two people were injured when a pipe bomb exploded at the front door of a home early Sunday morning.

City set on spending all plowing money

Wow, three different pieces of equipment came down our street recently, within eight minutes of each other, plowing less than two inches of snow.

Pierce Auto Center helps customers drive in style

SAGLE — When Jim Pierce started out in the car dealership business, his competition gave his career a life span of 90 days max.

Toenjes, McConnell lead Bulldog golfers in opener

CLARKSTON — Freshman Max Toenjes wasted little time making his presence known on the Sandpoint golf team, carding an 86 to lead the Bulldogs Monday in season opening golf action at the Clarkston Invitational.

Who do you want to represent you?

About the GOP’s Taliban wing: no, it is not all hate. They do have some loves, also some “would loves.” Let’s take a gander at some of them:

Boom eases need, raises concerns

COEUR d’ALENE — Even though agencies and companies are acting to ease fears that the next oil-by-rail catastrophe is just around the corner, some observers say only time will tell if those steps are sufficient.

Reasons Why Companies Prefer Renting a Crane

Tasks concerning building of flats, high as can be structures and exclusive homes are picking up worldwide ubiquity on account of the progressed ages of fast advancements. Are these building activities pricey, as well as they are exceptionally overwhelming and require immense capital ventures. This is the definite excuse for why the work of a foreman is frequently miscomprehended.

Council delays roundabout decision

SANDPOINT — Council members are holding off on determining a location for a prospective roundabout for the time being.

Foundation honors Orton's legacy

SANDPOINT — If there’s one thing that can be said about the life of Patrick Orton, it’s that he pursued his passions fearlessly.

Sandpoint Rock Gym offers winter climbing fix

Sandpoint climber Ashley Stoneham reaches for the next hand hold on Thursday at Sandpoint Rock Gym.

Taste of Home here next Saturday

SANDPOINT — The most popular cooking show in the United States is coming to Sandpoint next Saturday.

Pair of Bulldogs named to All-Star hoops teams

COEUR d’ALENE — A pair of Bulldogs will get one  more chance to enjoy high school hoops, as the participants for the boys and girls 2014 Idaho State High School All-Star Basketball Games were announced recently by the North Idaho College Athletics Department.

JFAC OKs $300K to expand NIC-Sandpoint

BOISE — State budget writers on Thursday approved North Idaho College’s $302,300 budget request for expanding programs at its Sandpoint Outreach Center.

Alliance business owners sell to Sequel

COEUR d’ALENE — The owners and operators of Alliance Family Services North Inc. sold their business to Alabama-based Sequel Youth and Family Services.

Clogged drain floods NIC's BF facility

BONNERS FERRY — Melting snow added up to a tricky situation Thursday for staffers at the North Idaho College Bonners Ferry Center.

Laclede Water District probed

SANDPOINT — The Laclede Water District is under investigation.

Sharks shine at Inland Empire Championships

MOSCOW — The Sandpoint Sharks took just five swimmers to the 2014 Inland Empire Swimming Championships recently at the University of Idaho Swim Center, but still left their mark with a slew of top 10 finishes.

It's time to say no to WBCSD's demands

Taxpayers of West Bonner County School District: Do you realize that private schools have a much better educational outcome than public schools with half as much spending per student?

Council passes BGH road idea

SANDPOINT — City and Bonner General Hospital officials may strike upon a mutually-beneficial relationship to improve Third Avenue.

Flood advisory issued for county

SANDPOINT — Bonner and five other Panhandle counties are under a flood advisory until Friday, according to the National Weather Service in Spokane.

'Ag-gag' is a violation of First Amendment

As an investigative journalist who has worked and lived in Idaho for 35 years, I find the votes in support of the “ag-gag” bill from Rep. Eric Anderson and Rep. George Eskridge to be both reprehensible and a violation of First Amendment rights.

WBCSD levy is nothing more than a slush fund

I have been an administrator and teacher in the public school systems for more than 37 years. I have also been a teacher at a major university in the graduate education department.

Levy benefits teachers and not our children

Hey, property owners! March 11, 2014, is the election date for the West Bonner County School District levy. Here are some questions one should ask:

Bill turns blind eye to animals' abuse

It’s a sad day in Idaho when lawmakers pass a law to protect animal abusers and prosecute those who wish to blow the whistle instead. The recent “ag-gag” law SB 1337 which Gov. Clement Leroy Otter had the opportunity to veto, was sparked by a dairy farmer who was unhappy that cruelties against nature were caught on camera at his facility in Wendell.

Escapee tracked to car wash attic

COEUR d’ALENE — Law enforcement arrested a 35-year-old Spokane man Wednesday evening after a pursuit and a tense standoff at Mobil 1 Lube Express that lasted more than an hour.

Spalding, Gagnon earn All-IEL hoops honors

SANDPOINT — One was a scoring machine, the other a high percentage post player, and both represent Sandpoint on the 4A All-Inland Empire League boys basketball team, as voted on recently by the league’s coaches.

Panel gives green light to proposed speed limit hike

BOISE — While a lobbyist for AAA Idaho asked state lawmakers to “tap the brakes” on legislation that could lead to higher speed limits, the House Transportation and Defense Committee on Tuesday kept a steady foot on the accelerator.

Jail ordered in theft case

SANDPOINT — A Ponderay woman who pleaded guilty to manipulating her former employer’s credit card charging system to pay down personal debt was ordered Tuesday to serve 90 days in jail.

Pink eye may not be serious but is contagious

Mark Twain said, “You can’t depend on your eyes when your imagination is out of focus.” But, you can imagine what a nuisance it was for Olympics commentator Bob Costas to try to focus on camera with bright pink eyes that colleague Matt Lauer described as making him look like a loser in a prize fight.

CFHS students launch online magazine

CLARK FORK — As the primary Clark Fork High School student publication, Fuse Magazine is very aptly named.

Winter storm wallops community

SANDPOINT — Make those snowmen while you can, because Bonner County is projected to get a whole lot wetter in the coming days.

Bulldogs place four on state podium

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint’s Josh Travers capped a strong senior season with a second place finish at 220 pounds, getting pinned by the No. 1 seed from Canyon Ridge late in the first round in the finals on Saturday at the state wrestling tournament in Nampa.

Comfort Keepers of North Idaho receives honors

Comfort Keepers of North Idaho has been recognized with Home Care Pulse’s “2014 Provider of Choice” distinction for the third year in a row.

Accident would be devastating to area

Congratulations to the Washington State Department of Ecology and Cowlitz County for recognizing the broad scope of the environmental impact for the proposed increased coal train transit. It is very short sighted for the Army Corps of Engineers to only be looking at the terminal impact. These trains originate in Montana and Wyoming passing through many miles of farm and ranch lands, rural communities, cities, river, wetlands and pristine forests.

Anderson's retirement is welcome news

On Feb. 17, we learned that Eric Anderson, five-term Legislative District 1A representative, suddenly announced his retirement to concentrate on spending more time on quagga and zebra mussels.

Cutting our military doesn't make sense

I listened as the Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel gave his administration-controlled speech (Feb. 24) indicating the president’s intent to decrease active Army forces from 520,000 to 440,000, along with pay and benefit cuts, citing lack of budget dollars to continue support at current levels.

Leadership changes keep Dover moving ahead

On Feb. 6, the City Council unanimously selected Councilwoman Annie Shaha as the new mayor of the city of Dover.

Albertson honored as state's top assistant principal

SANDPOINT — It’s difficult for Tom Albertson of Sandpoint High School to take credit for being named Idaho’s assistant principal of the year.

'Revenge porn' bill clears panel

BOISE — Despite concerns from the ACLU of Idaho, Rep. Luke Malek’s bill targeting “revenge pornography,” gained the House Judiciary, Rules, and Administration Committee’s approval Monday.

Let's get someone who will get things done

Quick Idaho Legislature quiz:

Bayview group calling for new cellphone tower

BAYVIEW — Locals call it the “dead zone” or “the hole.”

Angels top million-dollar giving mark

Local group puts the fun in fundraising

SANDPOINT — Over the past 17 years, one local organization has raised money a little at a time and, just as quickly as it got its hands on the cash, spread it around the community to help people in need.

Inflammatory rhetoric doesn't help anyone

Robert Wright’s recent letter gives us a pretty good insight to Mr. Wright’s frame of mind: hate.

Council mulls idea of new roundabout

SANDPOINT — The location of a proposed roundabout within town heads up the first Wednesday’s March council meeting.

Expanding Medicare has many benefits

While Idaho has an economic growth opportunity in one of the fastest growth industries in the country, that won’t require tax giveaways, why are we considering a tax incentive program that could cost taxpayers millions?

Legislature tackles agriculture, gun bills

We ended Day 54 of this legislative session on Friday, Feb. 28, and we are more than halfway through the session if we adjourn on March 21 as scheduled.

Court affirms sentence in voyeurism case

SANDPOINT — The Idaho Court of Appeals is upholding a district judge’s decision not to grant leniency to a Sandpoint man imprisoned for video voyeurism.

Theft suspect claims he was strong-armed

SANDPOINT — A burglary suspect told Sandpoint Police on Tuesday that he was forced at gunpoint to commit the crime by an unnamed accomplice.

4 Bulldogs advance to second day at state

NAMPA — Senior Josh Travers scored two pins and a decisive win to advance into the championship match of the 220-pound bracket, leading the Bulldogs during day one of the 4A state wrestling tournament on Friday at the Idaho Center in Nampa. Sandpoint is 12th in 4A after day one.

Whistleblower awarded damages

Jury votes 9-3 that firing was wrongful

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County jury awarded $56,000 in damages Friday to an excavation crew foreman who alleged that he was fired for reporting safety violations on the Sand Creek Byway construction project.