NEW THIS MORNING: Thursday, Aug. 22
1. Coeur d'Alene council OKs alcohol at farmers market, ignoring police concerns
The City Council has approved a request from the Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association to allow open containers at the 5th Street Farmers Market. Under the pilot project, beer and wine would be allowed from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays on Fifth Street between Front and Lakeside avenues. The trial could start soon and continue through Sept. 25.
According to an association report, the move would boost sales for market vendors and downtown businesses by attracting more visitors and encouraging longer stays. It would also “create a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere that enhances the community experience.”
“We already have an enormous problem with alcohol in our area,” Police Chief Lee White told the City Council. “And I just wanted to make sure the council was aware of the gravity and the scope of the issue we’re dealing with.”
2. Idaho sets new rules for bear hunters
Starting Sept. 1, any person placing bait to hunt black bears, hunting at a bait site or witnessing the use of a bait site by a grizzly bear, must immediately report the presence of a grizzly bear at a bait station to a Fish and Game regional office.
"Hunters must stop hunting over that bait site for the remainder of that specific hunting season," the release said. "The bait site may not be rebaited and must be removed as soon as it’s safe and feasible."
3. Drag performer may collect $1.1 million judgment against Post Falls blogger
In May, a Kootenai County jury unanimously found that Summer Bushnell defamed Eric Posey when she falsely accused him of exposing himself during Pride in the Park 2022.
Bushnell asked the court earlier this month to stay enforcement of the judgment while she appeals the case. First District Judge Ross Pittman denied Bushnell’s request Wednesday.