Sunday, March 31

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: STINK on stuff — Former Vandal and NFL player, and current analyst Schlereth, weighs in on football, former teammates and his nickname
“If I’ve got availability, have bags, will travel,” said Schlereth, currently an analyst for Fox Sports. “That’s where I am when it comes to helping out Idaho, because, to be honest with you man, being a kid that came out of Alaska, they’re the place that gave me the opportunity to continue to live out my dream of making it to the NFL, and nobody else seemed to be very interested in doing that. So, I owe them a debt of gratitude. Anytime I can pay that forward, I am definitely willing and able.”
NIC SOFTBALL: Cardinals rally to sweep rival CC Spokane
NIC is scheduled to host Wenatchee Valley in its home opener at Memorial Field on Friday, a doubleheader slated for 2 p.m.

'We're always telling our story'
Beth Rich's Mix It Up stores receive global recognition
Mix It Up Home Gift recently was honored at the annual Inspired Home Show 2024 in Chicago as among the world’s most innovative and creative home and housewares retailers are honored at the annual IHA Global Innovation Awards program.

‘Celebrations of Christ’
North Idaho’s faithful observe Easter
In a manner of speaking, Christians celebrate throughout the year. That’s how Dan Deuel, senior pastor at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Coeur d’Alene, looks at it.

Lake City High 'Unsinkable'
Grant earns school special musical production
The warm smell of popcorn being popped filled the air. Inside the auditorium, the lights were up. The stage was set, and the actors warmed up by dancing and singing their way through the titular number from “Little Shop of Horrors.” “Do what you need to do to make a great show,” Lake City High School teacher and theater director Daniel Bell instructed the cast and crew.

Hayden Surgery Center opening in phases
The new Hayden Surgery Center at 8552 Government Way is opening in phases with comprehensive care including Orthopedic Urgent Care and Orthopedic Physical Therapy.

Huckleberries: Seattle's all wet; water skiing was invented in Cd'A
Returning heroes, leaning barns and true leaders
RECYCLE: If not now, when?
Are we someday going to get serious about recycling in Coeur d’Alene? The first Earth Day was many years ago…
EDITORIAL: A happy hymn for Easter Sunday
Take it from the top, Van-Dogs

Milestone Announcements
See who's celebrating!
PARTIES: Here’s one disturbing similarity
Thanks to Doug Miller’s “Parties: Darn right there’s a difference,” Coeur d’Alene Press, Sunday, March 24. It struck a nerve.

Louise Ann Hartley, 73
Born to Lyman George Edward and Marjorie Evelyn McKay on January 24, 1951, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Louise Ann Hartley, beloved mother and wife, reached out to Jesus’s hand and went to heaven with her immediate family surrounding her on March 1, 2024.
OUR GEM: EPA’s Superfund Job Training Initiative coming to Bunker Hill
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Superfund Job Training Initiative, or SuperJTI, supports job readiness programs in communities affected by nearby Superfund sites and encourages the employment of trainees at local site cleanups.

Celebrate National Humor Month with a laugh
I like to find humor in most situations, no matter how dire. Take for example the devastating tornadoes that hit my home city of Minneapolis in the summer of 1987. There was massive damage, and people were emotionally distraught. Our local newspaper pictured a man standing by his car, which had been crushed by a fallen tree. He was smiling, waving at people driving by and holding a sign that read, "new-style compact car."
Important housing bill signed into law
Gives property renters in housing communities chance to buy the real estate
POLICE: Thanks to Chief White, officers
In today’s climate, where law enforcement often faces more criticism than praise, I felt compelled to write a letter of gratitude to Chief Lee White and his dedicated officers at the Coeur d’Alene Police Dept.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
What's the Easter Bunny's favorite book?
COLUMN: The bully strikes again
In his latest column (https://cdapress.com/news/2024/mar/22/opinion-party-on-gem-state-heist/) Brent Regan chooses to do what most bullies do. When they are outsmarted or can’t admit to facts, they lash out with lies and name calling.
Saturday, March 30

THE FRONT ROW with JASON ELLIOTT: Prangley back in his competitive element
“You’re really got to have a good team around you,” Trevor Prangley said. “And I appreciate everything these guys did and how they pushed everybody. Everyone in the gym really came together and sacrificed their time for us. And it was pretty cool to see.”

Council seeks park input
Councilmember Gary Sonnen brought an early concept design for a city park during the Wednesday council session. The park is slated to be located right behind city hall and other city facilities on the corner of Hanley Avenue and 4th Street. He said the park idea was brought forward by the previous city council, and the plan is to use ARPA funds to pay for it. Sonnen also said the city can possibly get additional funding through grants if any are available.

Highway 54 tree clearing underway
Tree clearing along Highway 54 en route to Bayview is meant to improve the roadway’s safety, according to the Idaho Transportation Department.

Critchfield: 'We're hopeful'
Public school budget should be ready soon, says state superintendent
Reverting to average daily attendance-based funding from the enrollment-based funding formula used during COVID-19 years has left many Idaho school districts feeling a financial pinch. “Money was left on the table, and we knew that last year,” Idaho State Superintendent of Public Education Debbie Critchfield said Friday during a visit to The Press office.
Egg-cellent strategies
A fierce hunt was underway Friday afternoon as a local kids sought to find the most colorful plastic eggs. Clad in their Easter purples, Charlie Maloney, 2 and Elsie Maloney, 4 were a little bit overwhelmed by the crush of kids an parents springing across the lawn at the Hayden Clubhouse.

Red Baron fires up memories of giving
Mind you, it didn't have the crosses on the helmet. It wasn’t one of the originals. Still, it was the Red Baron.

Overstuffed ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’ fails to justify its existence
Trying to appease all types of fans and regular moviegoers, the new “Ghostbusters” film, subtitled “Frozen Empire,” introduces a half-dozen decent ideas and fails to deliver on any of them.
Hospital reports data breach
Letters being mailed to patients whose info may be at risk
The Rehabilitation Hospital of the Northwest in Post Falls has experienced a data security incident that involved patient information.

The Exhausted Dad: Different personalities on the sidelines
I take pride in being a respectful member of an audience. As a moviegoer, I silence and stay off my phone, and I don’t converse with other moviegoers. Even when I tell my kids in the theater to be quiet, I tell them with sign language and, rarely, an extremely hushed whisper.
ITD halts plans to reconfigure stretch of Highway 54
The Idaho Transportation Department has halted plans to reconfigure a 3.5 mile stretch of the four-lane section of U.S. Highway 95 from Athol to Farragut State Park into a two-lane facility with a continuous left center turn lane.
After missing target date, legislative session to resume Tuesday
When the Idaho Legislature resumes Tuesday, it will mark the 86th day of the session, which began on Jan. 8. Holidays, weekends and days off like Monday still count toward the official number of days in session.

FAST FIVE: Animals are LaRain Saige's people
Meet LaRain Saige, an animal care specialist helping pets and their people stay healthy and happy at home.

Lillian Dodson, 92
Lillian Dodson, Artist 92, was born into spirit on March 18th, 2024, a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.
Cd'A notifies 57 in Idaho of data breach
Accessed info included Social Security, driver's license numbers
In the city’s Feb. 12 press release on the subject, it said the city was working with nationally recognized third-party cybersecurity and data forensics consultants and following industry best practices while developing a strategic plan to address the issue.

Sharon Dillon, 85
Sharon Dillon, 85, of Rathdrum, Idaho, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2024, in Pullman, Washington.

‘Howl’ to communicate with your dog
Dogs have a remarkable ability to communicate through a variety of sounds, or vocalizations. Because each vocalization conveys a specific message or emotion, understanding the meaning behind different vocalizations can help owners address their pets’ needs more effectively, leading to a stronger bond and a happier, healthier dog.
School and Senior Meals
School and Senior Meals: April 1-5

MY TURN: Thoughts behind hateful actions
Why did racial harassment generate so much national media attention?
PREP SOFTBALL: Lakeland falls to Frenchtown
Delilah Zimmerman and Emma Avalos had the lone hits for Lakeland (0-2), which scored twice on wild pitches in the third inning.

Glenn Elliott, 82
Glenn Harris Elliott was born on May 20, 1941, in Turlock, California to parents Glenn and Mae Elliott.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
Why was the Easter Bunny wearing a hat?
Legals for March, 30 2024
Friday, March 29

Easter is March 31 this year. Here's why many Christians will wake up before sunrise to celebrate
There is biblical symbolism in the Easter worship of the early risers.

In Jerusalem, Palestinian Christians observe scaled-down Good Friday rituals
A young group of Palestinian Arab scouts led the day’s procession, past the 14 stations along the route, each marking an event that befell Jesus on his final journey. Hundreds of Palestinian Christians walked in their wake. Behind them was a small parade of the Franciscan religious order, composed mainly of foreigners who live in Jerusalem.
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: There's always a shot at winning the stuffed panda
HOWEVER the trek to Detroit turns out, though, most people who know hoops will tell you that this season might be Few’s best overall coaching job.
ALL-IDAHO BOYS, GIRLS BASKETBALL: Orchard, Colvin, Waddington, Zufelt, Banks, Williams, Charley named to first team
Teagan Colvin (Coeur d’Alene), Avery Waddington (Lake City) and Sophia Zufelt (Lake City) all made the 5A girls first team, announced by The Idaho Statesman newspaper of Boise, following voting by coaches statewide.
PREP ROUNDUP: Lakeland comes up short in season opener
Lakeland plays Frenchtown today.

'Sherman Tower' going up
15-story hotel gets design commission's OK; construction expected to start next year
The project received strong support from letter writers and those who spoke at the public hearing that lasted about 90 minutes in the Coeur d’Alene Library Community.

Special meeting goes nowhere
CLN board at odds over presence of attorney, open meeting law
A special Thursday meeting with a focus on Idaho's open meeting law didn't go as planned when the Community Library Network's legal counsel was absent from the meeting.

Hoston earns firefighter honors
Cd'A Fire Department responded to a record 10,022 emergency service calls
The Coeur d'Alene Fire Department responded to a record 10,022 emergency service calls in 2023,

Shoshone County commissioners approve overlay district
Shoshone County commissioners voted this month to create a mountain overlay district for the areas surrounding Wallace.
'Don’t be scared'
“One-nine-nine?” “Nine-one-one?” “One-one-nine?” It took a couple of tries, but after a few attempts for the kindergartners to recite the number to call when an emergency happens, they were all in agreement. “Nine-one-one,” the Silver Hills Elementary students said in unison.

California's commercial Dungeness crab season will end April 8 to protect whales
The situation will be reassessed in mid-April.
NEO-NAZIS: Give them no safe harbor
The horrible racist attack last week against the Utah basketball team is directly connected to the 2022 infamous U-hall truck full of neo-Nazis preparing for mayhem by and through the famous quote: “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”

'Assisted Living' musical brings in $20K for Orchard Ridge
Orchard Ridge Senior Living put a new twist on its spring fundraiser with “Assisted Living: The Musical” at the Kroc Center March 22-24.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
What sport are eggs the best at?
RACISM: Still waiting for GOP renouncement
To Brent Regan and the KCRCC: Based on last Thursday’s events, do you think it is time to denounce White Supremacy?

OPINION: Government stays open … for now
At long last, Congress has quit kicking the can down the road in regard to keeping the government open. And that’s good news for the federal employees drawing government paychecks.
NATIONALISTS: Show us some proof
In your editorial Wednesday, you specifically stated that our county has become a base for “…white Christian Nationalists.”
$10K reward offered for info into racial incident
KCRCC chairman says visitors should feel safe
Tony Stewart, secretary of the Kootenai County Task Force on Human Relations, said they welcome the offer of a $10,000 reward by Regan.
SUPREMACISTS: You showed your true selves
Another proud moment for white supremacy. I can see you now, in the security blanket of your late-model Compensator pickups cruising along Sherman with your Civil War runner-up banners flying while you shout worn out idiocy at college girls. Your sister-wives must be chuffed.

Easter festivities
Easter Sunday is just a couple days away.

Shoshone County jail bookings
Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail

Return to the '90s this summer
Smash Mouth, Sugar Ray to play the fair's Party in the Dirt
Pull those crop tops out of the closet and frost those tips, because Sugar Ray and Smash Mouth are coming to the North Idaho State Fair this summer.

OPINION: Rejecting racism and the status quo
Party of Lincoln must root out racism
Barbara J. Seyfert, 63
Barb passed away on March 22, 2024. She was born on January 18, 1961, to Robert & Mary Nickel in Davenport, Iowa.

Planned power outage near Kellogg scheduled
About 110 Avista electric customers near Kellogg will experience a planned power outage Wednesday, April 3, Avista officials stated in a press release.
Movers & Shakers
Movers & Shakers

OPINION: Recommended candidates
The Kootenai County Republican Central Committee (KCRCC), the official Republican Party, has made their recommendations for the upcoming May Primary Election. The KCRCC candidate rating and vetting process is just that, a process involving questionnaires, interviews, candidate forums, due diligence, sub-committee reports, discussion, debate, and finally a vote by the full KCRCC.

LaVerna St. Clair Frymire, 93
LaVerna St.Clair Frymire passed peacefully from this life on March 22nd, 2024 at Schneidmiller Hospice House in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
Collegiate Commendations
North Idaho College announces fall 2023 Dean’s List
Universities announce fall 2023 Dean’s Lists
RACISTS: We must not let them go
As a born and raised Coeur d’Alene native, I was heartbroken to hear about the racist treatment the Utah women’s basketball team received in my town. Low-IQ idiots in their redneck trucks spouting racism. Are we going to let this go?
BEHAVIOR: Not hard to identify its source
It is deplorable when anyone harasses others with despicable, dehumanizing language. (Utah coach says team was shaken after experiencing racist hate during NCAA Tournament March 26.)
KCRCC: Statement proves racist points
Just read the statement from Brent Regan’s KCRCC on Racial Supremacy. My advice: Take it down ASAP.
MY TURN: Librarians, parents and bounty hunters, oh my!
Legislators on right path to clean up filth in libraries.
Movie times
Movie times
RACISM: The answer is love
As I read articles stating NCAA players participating in tournaments in Spokane that had to stay overnight in Coeur d’Alene were harassed multiple times downtown by people revving their engines and spouting horrible racist expletives, I am just so disappointed.
SUPREMACY: Writer sees some hypocrisy
Anyone else see the hypocrisy in the front-page photo with the person holding the sign, “end white supremacy?”
RACISM: Alive and unwell in North Idaho
The recent incident with the Utah women’s basketball team is an example of the still active racist mentality that exists in part of our community.
INCIDENT: Facts first, then judgment
Let’s all take our pulses and remember what a great city we live in. Let’s remember how great the people are here.
RACISM: The sickness is simply sickening
I am deeply embarrassed for my city and my state. As an alumnus of U of Utah, I have great pride in the school and the athletic program. The women’s basketball team deserved their invitation to the NCAA Tournament. Certain people in my beautiful city ruined their experience and they will never want to visit this area again.
RACISM: My town just isn’t the same
What happened to our beautiful friendly town I grew up in? Where are these people coming from that would do such a thing to visiting guests?

County shifting grant funds
Shoshone County Grant Administrator Colleen Rosson recently met with the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to discuss the statuses of a handful of their approved projects.

Free job training offered for Basin Environmental Improvement Project
The Basin Environmental Improvement Project Commission is hosting free job training April 2-16 for individuals looking to get into the industry.
RACISM: Alas, not new to North Idaho
How disappointing to hear of the racist behavior in Coeur d’Alene. Such a black mark on the city and the state of Idaho. The part that is not surprising is the history of this type of behavior in North Idaho that has gone on for many years. Having grown up there it has been a part of life since the 1970s.
RACISM: It offends us all
It was shocking to learn that Aryan Nation-style racist intimidation took place last weekend in downtown Coeur d’Alene. This behavior was publicly defended and excused by David Reilly, who is connected to both Idaho Freedom Foundation (IFF) and the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee (KCRCC).
LOSERS: Don’t represent community
Sorry to hear that a bunch of “losers” in a pickup truck and another in a car shouted racial comments to the Utah women’s basketball team. Bill Reagan said it best. “Don’t let the actions of a few indict all of Coeur d Alene.”

'Mom'
My mom was special and unique No place here for the weak My mom went to Heaven you see With no one to watch over me
Legals for March, 29 2024
Thursday, March 28

US changes how it categorizes people by race and ethnicity. It's the first revision in 27 years
Under the revisions, questions about race and ethnicity that previously were asked separately on forms will be combined into a single question

Pope, looking strong, washes feet of 12 women at Rome prison from his wheelchair
The Holy Thursday foot-washing ceremony is a hallmark of every Holy Week and recalls the foot-washing Jesus performed on his 12 apostles at their last supper together before he was crucified.

Biden administration restores threatened species protections dropped by Trump
Details on the proposed rules, which could take a year to finalize, were obtained by The Associated Press in advance of their public release.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: Leftover thoughts from the NCAAs in Spokane
That rant aside, the good folks of Spokane … and North Idaho — and perhaps elsewhere in the country — showed out once again when the NCAAs came to town last weekend.
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: If healthy, the Mariners can contend — no joke
Bottom line: It would be a shock if pitching is the Mariners’ problem. Assuming the guys are healthy.

COLLEGE VOLLEYBALL: Idaho places Gonzalez on administrative leave
Gonzalez, in his second year as coach, went 1-27 in 2023, after going 4-24 in 2022.

WSU names McCoy interim athletic director
McCoy will continue to serve in the role until a permanent director is named.

Bowling scores: March 28, 2024
Scores from area leagues.
AT COLLEGE: March 28, 2024
Updates on area athletes at the next level.
Weekend TV/Radio highlights
Television, radio and streaming highlights for upcoming weekend.
Work set on $56M PF Dam rehabilitation
Avista expects project to be complete by spring 2027
It's been nearly 50 years since any major work has been done on Avista's Hydroelectric Development North Channel Dam, originally constructed 118 years ago.

'A cool opportunity'
Men have plan to renovate, open three restaurants in lakefront town
The Candle Group, owners of the Candle in the Woods in Athol, plan to open three restaurants in Bayview, with hopes for two to be ready for Memorial Day Weeked.

NIC athletics budget may reach $6.2 million
North Idaho College’s athletics budget could jump from $2.2 million in 2024 to $6.2 million in 2025 due to full scholarships for student athletes and additional travel costs associated with NIC’s return to the National Junior College Athletic Association.

Locals do well in chess competitions
The top three winners from each section were invited to play at the Tournament of Champions held on the second day, March 17. The overall winner of K-5th grade will represent Idaho in the Rockefeller Tournament.

Enjoy food with flair at Care Affair
CDAIDE benefit set for April 11 at Cd'A Resort
Delicious food, exciting auctions, support for local restaurant and hospitality workers — it's CDAIDE's Care Affair, and it will return to The Coeur d'Alene Resort for its sixth time at 5 p.m. April 11.

Hunter harvest: Drop in elk, mule deer, bump in whitetails
For the first time since 2013, statewide elk harvest came in below 20,000.
The elk harvest is a bit of a head-scratcher. Anecdotally, Fish and Game heard reports from experienced elk hunters who were not finding elk in their usual spots during fall, and suspect weather may have been a significant factor.

The Humble and Gentle Art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Next we were instructed in a specific technique, the kimura, and had a chance to pair up and practice it on each other. Jiu Jitsu (Japanese for “gentle art”) is a martial art focused on leverage and applying techniques which allow a smaller person to subdue a much larger opponent.

Richard David Welts, 84
Richard David Welts, #11011, Sergeant II, of the Los Angeles Police Department was born on Friday, September 1, 1939, in Los Angeles, and was called home, concluding his final EOW on Monday, March 25, 2024 at the Schneidmiller Hospice House in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.
Paving planned at 'The Mudhole'
Construction is slated to start in April and is expected to continue through mid-July, delaying opening of the recreation area from its historical opening date of the third weekend in May.
F&G director responds to legal decision regarding wolf trapping and grizzly bears
Says decision will affect wolf trapping by public trappers in some parts of the state
Prior to this decision, Fish and Game wolf trapping seasons varied across the state, based on public and private lands, potential conflict with other land users, and wolf conflicts with livestock and people.

MY TURN: Come together against the tide
An open invitation to serve on the side of light

Glacier National Park crews plowing Two Medicine Road
Will start Going-to-the-Sun Road at Rising Sun next week
This year expect road construction on the west side this spring, as crews need to finish up a construction job on the Sun Road from just before the Lake McDonald Lodge to the North McDonald Road. Crews were unable to finish that section due to snow and cold last fall.

Movers & Shakers
Movers & Shakers
Republican Idaho legislator introduces late-session Texas-style immigration bill
Bill would allow local law enforcement to arrest non-U.S. citizens for entering Idaho without legal authority outside of ports of entry
Rep. Vito Barbieri, R-Dalton Gardens, also told Crane to correct the fiscal note on the bill, but Barbieri voted for introducing the bill. Crane did say he would provide an updated fiscal note in time for the bill to receive a full hearing.

Bryan Sean Happell, 61
Larger than life and twice as vibrant, the world lost a true force of nature when Bryan Sean Happell passed away after a short and unexpected illness in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, on March 18, 2024.

LC State earns Military Friendly Gold designation
Lewis-Clark State College, which has campuses in Coeur d'Alene and Lewiston, has once again been designated as a Military Friendly School and this time with a special gold-level designation by Military Friendly, the organization announced Wednesday.
Legals for March, 28 2024
Wednesday, March 27

Amazon pours an additional $2.75 billion into AI startup Anthropic
The Seattle-based tech giant made an initial investment of $1.25 billion in Anthropic in September and indicated then it had plans to invest up to $4 billion.

A faster spinning Earth may cause timekeepers to subtract a second from world clocks
It’s a complicated situation that involves, physics, global power politics, climate change, technology and two types of time.

Stock market today: S&P 500 sets a record after Wall Streets breaks out of its lull
The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 477.75
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: The business of being a Coug
The Cougs have taken so many hits that they’re pretty bruised, but they’ve still hung in there. I don’t expect that to change.
PREP GIRLS BASKETBALL: After Blair game, Post Falls senior Brennan ready for next step
On Tuesday, Brooklynn Brennan had 10 points, four rebounds and four assists for the Region, which held off the Metro All-Stars in the annual Jack Blair Memorial Girls Basketball Game at Lewis and Clark High in Spokane.
Youth Sports March 27, 2024
Scores, results, highlights, news, etc., from local youth sports teams, leagues, etc.

Signing photos March 27, 2024
Local high school seniors signing letters of intent to continue their athletic careers.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Colton Smith, Christian Center School
Christian Center School boys basketball player Colton Smith is this week's Knudtsen Chevrolet Press Athlete of the Week.

University: ‘Hateful’ actions in Coeur d’Alene left players shaken
Mayor Hammond, others apologize, some call for stronger stances against racism
The incidents occurred shortly after the traveling party arrived in the area to participate in the NCAA women’s basketball tournament’s first and second rounds hosted by Gonzaga University in Spokane.

Police seek witnesses, recordings
According to a police report of the incident, Robert Moyer, a donor for the University of Utah basketball team, told police the team was in town for the NCAA tournament in Spokane and had gone to Crafted at Fifth and Sherman.

Stewart: Racism still a problem
Human rights task force takes strong stance, once more, against 'acts of hatred'
Tony Stewart, KCTFHR secretary, said the racism faced by women basketball players in downtown Coeur d’Alene on Thursday when racial slurs were reportedly shouted at them, “is once again a stain on our community that we have worked so hard to erase since the early days of the Aryan Nations?”

Season's snowfall tops 50 inches
Of that 14.1 inches has fallen in March, more than double the normal March snowfall of of 6.7 inches.

Wired2Learn Academy pursues federal nonprofit status
Therapeutic school hosting dyslexia simulation, open house Thursday
An independent therapeutic school in Post Falls is in the final phases of earning its federal 501(c)3 status.
LIBRARY: Board thrusts dagger in woke’s heart
I’m glad the library board finally decided to stand up to the woke ideology that is Juneteenth. Liberals have long stood for diminishing my rights. The fact the library board voted to align the library with the Biden propaganda network last year to give their liberal employees the fake holiday off was unconscionable.

Harley Rickey Mills, 89
Harley Rickey Mills (89) January 2, 1933—March 21, 2024

Elbert Stebbins, 85
Elbert (AL) E. Stebbins Sr., 85, of Hayden, Idaho, died January 13, 2024, at the Schneidmiller House with his son Will by his side.
LEARNING: Critic writes an obituary
Imitating Post Falls, our Coeur d’Alene School District is teasing the idea of reducing the school week from five days to four. The excuse is a spurious claim that money will be saved, but the reason is much simpler. Administrators and teachers union bosses are trying to curry favor with those whom they have disappointed.

OPINION: Condemn racism and build a better future for Kootenai County
As Chair of the Kootenai County Democratic Central Committee, I am deeply troubled by recent events surrounding the NCAA Women's Basketball tournament held in Spokane. The fact that teams competing in the tournament felt compelled to change hotels from Coeur d'Alene to Spokane due to racism directed at them is not just a stain on our community, but a reminder of the work we still have ahead of us in combating bigotry and intolerance.
HOUSING: Sharing a fact-of-life lesson
Reading the Coeur d’Alene Press article “Rising rents squeeze Idaho families” took me back in time.

Eberlein running for Kootenai County commissioner
Post Falls resident Marc Eberlein has announced his candidacy for Kootenai County commissioner, aiming to retake the District 1 seat he lost in 2016 to outgoing commissioner Bill Brooks.

MY TURN: Macomber’s hypocrisy over federal funds
Let's talk about what's happening at North Idaho College (NIC), especially with former attorney Art Macomber's recent public stance in opposition to federal funds and state funds. It's kind of funny when you think about it.
Idahoans react to reported racial incident
Officials and organizations across Idaho reacted on Tuesday to the reported racial incident involving the University of Utah women’s basketball program in downtown Coeur d'Alene. Here are some of their statements:
EDITORIAL: Plague isn't banished after all
Racism, hatred, white nationalism did not die when Aryan Nations was burned to the ground

Today's Ghastly Groaner
Why couldn't the flower ride a bike?

Shirley Andrews, 82
Shirley Ann Andrews, nee Taylor, was born in Bakersfield, California, on September 10, 1941, to Fred Riley and Alice Taylor. She joined siblings Dora, Russ and Ray, with younger brother Chuck arriving soon after.
Children’s Village will get COVID-19 rescue funds
After overcoming setbacks and delays, Children’s Village will receive the $291,000 in federal COVID-19 rescue funds that were approved by Kootenai County in 2022.

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Reaping the rewards of non-invasive body contouring
Embarking on the journey of fat loss can feel like an uphill battle, with countless diet plans, surgical interventions, and guidance available. While lifestyle adjustments can certainly make a difference, for many, achieving desired changes proves elusive. Enter non-invasive body contouring, emerging as a beacon of hope for safe and effective fat loss procedures.

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Mastering the art of wine tasting: A delightfully subjective affair
For the uninitiated, the world of wine tasting can seem shrouded in an air of pretentiousness and elitism. After all, how can someone wax poetic about the "bouquet of sun-ripened blackberries intertwined with hints of smoky cedar" when all you taste is…well, wine? The truth is wine tasting is an art form that relies heavily on individual perception and personal preferences. While there are certain techniques and skills that can elevate one's tasting abilities, at its core, tasting is a delightfully subjective affair.

Beryl G. Williams, 90
Beryl Elizabeth Goudie Williams, 90, of Bayview, Idaho, passed away on March 7, 2024, at Kootenai Health in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
EXCEL: Came through again for music program
Thank you to the Excel committee for your continued support of our music program in our community and here at Skyway Elementary!

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Decoding food labels: Part II
In part I of Decoding Food Labels, I discussed reading label claims of “natural,” organic,” sugar, low calorie, and “enriched” foods. We had so much fun! Now in Part II, I will talk about other label tricks to beware of.

March Madness fun for local couple
Alan and Dani Wolfe of Post Falls are an athletic pair ... running, hiking, golfing, Ironman and coaching youth sports.They’re engaged and enthusiastic grandparents, cheering on their scholar/athlete grandson, Dylan Wolfe, as he played football and runs track for Post Falls High School.
MASTERSON: Save our rural lifestyle
For county commissioner this time around my support goes to my good friend Bat Masterson and he should be your choice as well.
Legals for March, 27 2024
Tuesday, March 26

Bird flu, weather and inflation conspire to keep egg prices near historic highs for Easter
In Europe, egg prices are 10% to 15% lower than last year but still about double what they were in 2021, Mulder said.

Trump's social media company soars in its first day of trading on Nasdaq
The stock created such a frenzy that Nasdaq briefly halted its trading just two minutes after it began for the day

Utah coach says team was shaken after experiencing racist hate during NCAA Tournament
Utah was staying about 30 miles away in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and was relocated to a different hotel on Friday.
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Smith leaving WSU not a surprise
There’s certainly a financial score for Smith in this move, and Stanford carries major prestige. The Cardinal, though, have jumped to the Atlantic Coast Conference, and will be traipsing back and forth across the country.
PREP BASKETBALL: Area high school all-star games tonight in Spokane
Brooklynn Brennan of Post Falls High is the lone District 1 player scheduled to participate. Teagan Colvin of Coeur d’Alene is sitting out the game with an injury, and three other players who were invited declined due to being out of town for spring break this week.

Kellogg killer gets life without parole
Majorjon Kaylor will spend the rest of his life in prison without the possibility of parole for killing a family of four in Kellogg.

'Special heroes'
Medal of Honor recipients, artist honored at CDA Veterans Affairs clinic
An emotional ceremony for local Medal of Honor winners attended by many veterans was held in the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs North Idaho Community Clinic in Coeur d’Alene on Monday, National Medal of Honor Day.

'All of a sudden, your future can look different'
From county to county, the needs of students and their families experiencing housing challenges or homelessness may present differently, but whether a student in Kootenai County or Shoshone County needs support, protections from the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act are there to create a safety net in their school district.

Wallace noise ordinance headed for public hearing
The Wallace City Council plans to hold a public hearing during their April 10 meeting to discuss their recently completed draft noise ordinance.
As spring practice nears, Idaho names new defensive line coach
He spent three seasons in the NFL, where he played for the Kansas City Chiefs (2014-15), Pittsburgh Steelers (2013-14), Seattle Seahawks (2012-13), and the Houston Texans (2012).

Enrollment up at Lewis-Clark State College
Cd'A, Lewiston campuses see 2% increase since last year
Official spring semester census day numbers are in and confirm that Lewis-Clark State College’s enrollment is on the rise, including at the Coeur d'Alene center.
Officials to address report of racial incident
The topic is in response to a major racial incident in Coeur d'Alene on the evening of Thursday, March 21, 2024.

Dan D. Oswald, 84
November 11, 1939 – March 12, 2014 Dan D Oswald, 84, was the oldest of four children born to Noel and Delores (Sheetz) Oswald.

Judith Bieze, 75
Born on April 8, 1948, Judith (Judy) Marie (Foss) Bieze grew up in the Chicago area and received her Bachelor of Science degree from Illinois State University.
VETERANS PRESS: Military culture
Military culture is internalized by most service members and veterans but sometimes a mystery to their family members and friends. Military values such as sacrifice, honor, humility, collective effort, and a desire to limit risk or harm to others are important to understand.
VETERANS PRESS: Remembering history
MARCH 3, 1865: Congress approves the establishment of the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers

Shoshone County jail bookings
Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail

Sholeh: Mad about food
What you're eating might be killing you.

Donald McSparrin, 99
Donald Richard McSparrin passed away on March 19th, 2024, at the venerable age of 99, at Cascadia Rehabilitation Nursing Home in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
Silver Valley Sports Recap: March 18-24
Spring sports underway; North Idaho Athletic HOF finalists announced.

John Wilson, 72
John Wilson, age 72, of Osburn, Idaho, passed away on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at home with family.
VETERANS PRESS: Paving a path to 'Help and Hope' for veterans and their families for over 5 years
Over the past 68 months, Veterans Help Net has partnered with the Coeur d'Alene/Post Falls Press to produce the monthly edition of the Veterans Press.
VETERANS PRESS: North Idaho Resource Directory
A list of the veteran service offices in North Idaho.
VETERANS PRESS: Honoring your service: Why U.S. military veterans should apply for the benefits they earned
We hear this comment from our veterans way too often… “I did not apply for help or benefits because there are other veterans who deserve it more…I did not want get in their way.” Let us outline some reasons why “If you served, you deserve.”

VETERANS PRESS: North Idaho Veterans Stand Down coming in May
Mann-Grandstaff VAMC and our North Idaho Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) staff in Coeur d’Alene are looking forward to participating and supporting the May 18 North Idaho Veterans Stand Down at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds!

Larry Jamison, 87
Larry Lee Jamison, 87, was born May 3, 1936. The hometown of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, sadly left us on March 7, 2024, following a massive stroke.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
What did the frog say to the seamstress?
VETERANS PRESS: Important message to Vietnam Era veterans
The message below is another notice of the new eligibility available because of the Pact Act. Please read and pass this along to any veterans you know that may qualify. Hello veteran and to each of you supporting the veterans you know… Next week, the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs will email two million Vietnam Era veterans with important information about the PACT Act and why now is the time to ensure that veteran you know gets enrolled in VA!
Legals for March, 26 2024
Monday, March 25

OPINION: Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s
How Christ viewed separation of church and state

Men described as Idaho prison gang members appear in court on hospital ambush and escape charges
Dean agreed to keep the bond for both men set at $2 million after prosecutors said they were a danger to the community and flight risks.

The IRS has 940,000 unclaimed tax refunds from 2020 that are about to expire. Is one of them yours?
Taxpayers typically have three years to file and claim tax refunds, otherwise the money becomes the property of the U.S. Treasury.

To make water last year-round, Kenyans in dry regions are building sand dams on seasonal rivers
Before the sand dams were built, she and her children would walk many miles to fetch water in springs in the faraway Mbooni Hills. It took them three hours, and many times they’d fall because of the rocky terrain.

Nevada's first big-game moose hunt will be tiny as unusual southern expansion defies climate change
Only a few Nevada moose, perhaps just one, will be killed across an area larger than Massachusetts and New Jersey combined. But state officials expect thousands of applications for the handful of hunting tags, and it’s already controversial.

NCAA TOURNAMENT • Spokane: Sears, Dioubate lead Alabama past upstart GCU, into Sweet 16
“Sears wasn’t letting us lose tonight,” Alabama coach Nate Oats said. “This was as good a defensive game as Mark has played. He was cramping at the end, but I didn’t feel I could take him out.”

NCAA TOURNAMENT • Spokane: San Diego State rolls past Yale, earns rematch with defending national champion UConn
“I think we got the hardest game out of the way (on Friday),” Trammell said. “We came out loose and confident, and got open shots.”
Monday TV/Radio highlights
Television, radio highlights for Monday, March 25

Emerging Visionary
Cd'A student lands national Prudential award
Mathematics has always been a space where 17-year-old Adeline Smith could explore her own limits and by co-founding Growing the STEM with her sister, Lilian Smith in 2017, she’s been passing on the love of learning and passion for science, technology, engineering and math to other students in their community.
Ten years of burgers and smiles
Schmidty’s Burgers marks decade in Cd'A
Nathan and Denise Schmidt have been serving up smiles for a decade in Coeur d’Alene, and are celebrating the restaurant’s 10th anniversary this year. The owners of Schmidty’s Burgers at 1524 Sherman said they love what they do and have no plans on slowing down.
Learning the ranch life
New UI program gives 4-H kids agricultural exposure
A new University of Idaho Extension 4-H Youth Development program gave a group of Kootenai County youths the opportunity to spend a weekend as working ranch hands.

A superbloom expected in California's deserts
Last week certainly felt like spring across the Inland Northwest. March 17 was the warmest St. Patrick’s Day in recorded history in Coeur d’Alene with a high of 71 degrees. The old record was 70 degrees set back in 1972.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
What did the waffle say to the waffle iron?
Sunday, March 24

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: One more chance for Madness at the Arena
If nothing else, the WCC regular season and postseason tournament should be a little more competitive the next two years, with WSU and hopefully Oregon State providing a challenge to the Zags and Gaels.
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Kudos to Zags and Cougs, despite differing results
How good is this Gonzaga team? Really.
PREP ROUNDUP: Reese shines as Lake City avenges loss to Highland
Lake City notches win, Lakeland sweeps in prep baseball on Saturday.

COLLEGE WRESTLING: Lovett, a Post Falls native, sixth at NCAAs
Lovett, the top seed, lost by a 3-1 decision to Kyle Parco of Arizona State in the fifth-place match, concluding his season 27-4. Parco was the tournament's second seed at 149 pounds. The top eight in each weight class earned All-American honors. It was the second time Lovett has been honored (2022).
NIC SOFTBALL: Cardinals sweep Walla Walla
Sophomore Karli Kostoff hit a grand slam in the second game for NIC (15-2, 7-0 NWAC), which faces the Community Colleges of Spokane next Saturday at Spokane Falls Community College.

Appeal hearing set on Marriott hotel
Joan Woodard will dispute DRC decision before City Council on April 16
But Woodard believes the public was not given sufficient notice and information about the project until it was too late, and the hotel was given a green light despite what she sees as conflicts with the principles of the city’s comprehensive plan
'I matter'
Quilt of Valor honors 'the boy who went to war'
At his Quilt of Valor ceremony, the empty table in the corner was first and foremost on Joel Walker’s mind. It was a place set for his fallen friend, Romey Earl Hughart Jr., who was killed in action August 11, 1966. “That’s going to be a tough one, he was a good friend,” Walker said.
Report: Alzheimer's projected to rise in Idaho
A new 2024 Alzheimer’s and dementia report from the Alzheimer's association shows there are only eight geriatricians in the state. Only one of those doctors is based in North Idaho.

Metro Express Car Wash celebrates grand opening
Metro Express Car Wash celebrated its grand opening in Hayden with the Chamber of Commerce and Young Construction.

Huckleberries: Attention, shoppers: Dixie was ahead of her time
DFO is back after root-seeking Portugal quest

Today's Ghastly Groaner
I just opened a new flower shop.

Roy Toyama, 98
Roy Toyama, 98, passed away on March 17, 2024, at home after a short illness.

Living trusts are a powerful tool if you own real property in more than one state
It is common for my clients to own real property in multiple states. Maybe they are snowbirds with primary residence in Idaho, and winter property in Arizona, or California. Sometimes my clients own out of state investment properties such as rentals in Spokane. Whatever the case may be, owning real property in more than one state can be a problem after your death if you don’t want your estate tied up in probate court.

How to ask for a raise
Former Secretary of Commerce Malcolm Baldrige enjoyed telling a story about how a high-ranking official responded to an employee's request for a raise by saying: "Because of the influctuational predisposition of your position's productive capacity as juxtaposed to government standards, it would be monetarily injudicious to advocate an increment."
EDITORIAL: Crumbling schools see work crews en route
Press offers praise for supportive legislators

Carol L. May, 79
Carol May passed away Sunday, December 10, 2023, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
Voluntary housing deed restrictions
Can deed restricts work to ease the housing crisis?
PARTIES: Darn right there’s a difference
Evan Koch’s Opinion piece on Republican vs. Democrat decision making unwittingly exposes why Democrats make seriously poor decisions. Proper leadership decision making requires open debate and the consideration of different perspectives — even those opposed to your own.
NOISE: Concerns fall on deaf ears
To the two Press letter writers who expressed some of the very worst concerns I’ve seen in a long time.
CYBERFAIL: Hold somebody accountable
As relates to Coeur d’Alene’s recent cyberfail, wherein the city failed to properly safeguard infrastructure through awareness, systems and training, Hammond should resign — as should whomever has explicit responsibility for the city’s IT infrastructure.

Helena Kahler (Vieira), 88
Helena was born March 3, 1936, to John and Mary (Ferreira) Vieira in Port-of-Spain,
Saturday, March 23
Rummage sale at The Altar Church today
Rummage sale at church today

NCAA TOURNAMENT • Spokane: San Diego State rides LeDee, last year's experience to win over UAB
San Diego State (25-10) advanced to Sunday’s second round to face 13th-seeded Yale (24-8), which fought back and stunned No. 4 seed Auburn (27-8) 78-76 before a crowd which became louder and louder in support of Yale down the stretch.

North Idaho 14-day weather forecast
North Idaho 14-day weather forecast

NCAA TOURNAMENT • Spokane: Simply Grand — D-I newbie Grand Canyon knocks off Saint Mary’s for first NCAA tourney win
“It’s cool for the world to see what GCU’s capable of,” said Lopes senior forward Gabe McLothan, who finished with 12 points and 11 rebounds. “We’re not done yet.”
PREP ROUNDUP: Trojan boys dominate at Lewiston Invitational
Friday's area high school results.

COLLEGE WRESTLING: Lovett falls in semifinals, drops into consolation bracket
Lovett, who was runner-up in 2022, will wrestle in the consolation bracket today (8 a.m., ESPNU).

CLN drops Juneteenth holiday
Action criticized as racist
The Community Library Network will no longer observe Juneteenth, the state and federally recognized holiday that marks the end of slavery in the United States.

Dreams of dresses
Students launch drive for prom
Members of the Ant’oqmi’wes club were looking for a way to help their peers that tied in with spring. The Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy students put their heads together and came up with the idea to run a prom dress drive for the community. The group, led by seniors Abigail Fitzgerald and Ari Begalman, also goes by the United Together club.

'That's how deadly it is'
Prosecutor outlines challenges of fighting fentanyl as state passes tougher laws
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that’s far more powerful than morphine.The pills can resemble prescription narcotics like Oxycontin, but are counterfeit and often lethal.

Prosecutor’s office gets $100K for expert witnesses
Kootenai County commissioners unanimously approved a $100,000 request from the prosecutor’s office to spend on expert witnesses.
NIC SOFTBALL: Cardinals romp past Columbia Basin
NIC is scheduled to play a doubleheader at Walla Walla today at noon.
Blessings for Bangladesh
NI Christian School packs meals with love during Feed the Need event
In hairnets and gloves, North Idaho Christian School's 220 students prepared meals with blessings and love. The students worked in rotations throughout the day March 14 to pack 10,000 vitamin-rich meals of rice and lentils that will feed people in Bangladesh, a historically high-poverty, highly populated South Asian country.

FAST FIVE: Keaton Lee paints up a storm
Meet Keaton Lee, an 18-year-old custom painter with a shop located in Post Falls. Follow her instagram @crazy.k.kustomz to see her works.

Springtime bliss: Keeping your pets safe from poisonous plants
Spring brings a burst of color and new life to our surroundings, but the very things that make spring so vibrant can pose serious threats to our beloved pets.

Nancy Ellen Chandler Johansen, 84
Nancy Ellen (Chandler) Johansen, born January 15, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, to Henry and Winnie (Daves) Chandler, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2024, at the Schneidmiller Hospice House after spending a beautiful day surrounded by her family and loved ones.

Marilyn Joyce Saunders, 82
Marilyn Joyce Saunders of Bayview, Idaho, passed away at Kootenai Health Hospital in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on March 15, 2024, at age 82.
Senior Meals
Senior Meals: March 25-29

MY TURN: Persecution of Christians and Martyrs around the world
The media has largely ignored the millions of Christians who have been persecuted, tortured and even killed for their faith.

Easter's on its way
Egg hunts aplenty will be found across North Idaho this spring.
Son setting pace in good-deed contest
I don’t know who’s winning, but that doesn’t matter. It’s the good deeds that count.

Awesomeness for hire
Nearly 300 students participate in Reverse Job Fair
Nearly 300 Post Falls-area high school seniors had the opportunity to not only learn more about their prospective future careers, but also earn scholarships and awards Wednesday at the Post Falls Chamber's Reverse Job Fair.
Sheriff's Office Notable Calls
The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office published the following notable calls that occurred between March 18 and March 21. The sheriff’s office describes this information as preliminary and subject to revision as investigations continue.

The Exhausted Dad: Overscheduled and on the run
My wife and I made a pact before we started a family: We can’t overschedule our kids.
2024 commemorative bricks available
The Hayden Veterans Commission offers area residents the opportunity to memorialize a veterans name on a brick paver, and bricks for 2024 are now available. Bricks can be bought for $150 and they will be placed in the PFC Robert J. Gordon Veterans Memorial Plaza in front of Hayden City Hall.

MY TURN: 'Old Guard' put N. Idaho on the map
With primary election nearing, decide who you think will make our community its most desirable.

Ghostbusting — the hardest job in cinema
Bustin’ makes people feel good. Well, it did that one time, at least.
Avista to host PF Dam rehab open house Wednesday
Spillway work to begin in April
Avista will host an open house from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday to speak with the public about a multi-year project to rehabilitate the spillway for the Post Falls North Channel Dam.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
What did the snail say while it was riding on the turtle's back?
Legals for March, 23 2024
Friday, March 22

Kate, Princess of Wales, says she has cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy
The news is another shock for the royal family since the announcement last month that King Charles III was being treated for an unspecified type of cancer that was caught while undergoing a procedure for a benign enlarged prostate.

Deaths of dog walker, 83, and resident of a remote cabin possibly tied to escaped Idaho inmate
Investigators said Thursday that while on the run, Meade and Umphenour may have been responsible for the deaths of two men, one in Nez Perce County and the other in Clearwater County

Kentucky's loss to unheralded Oakland crushes millions of March Madness brackets
Kentucky's exit erased a lot of perfect brackets, and by the end of the first full day of the NCAA Tournament, only 1,825 remained at ESPN

'Saved!'
“Saved!” is made up of a combination of recognizable Christian hymns, including “Nothing but the Blood of Jesus” and “How Can I Keep from Singing,” as well as original and sometimes more subversive tracks like “All of My Friends Are Going to Hell.”

NCAA TOURNAMENT • Spokane — Saint Mary’s ready for “road” treatment tonight against Grand Canyon at Arena
“We’ve definitely felt it,” added Bryce Drew, Grand Canyon’s fourth-year coach. “We went out to eat last night and we stepped in the restaurant and people are saying, ‘Beat Saint Mary’s.’ … So that rivalry is real out here. It only took us a little bit of time around people to realize how serious that rivalry is.”
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Good start, but great needed again for Zags
We’ll need to see another game or two to know whether or not Gonzaga has stepped it up a gear. Actually, just one game will be enough.

COLLEGE WRESTLING: Former Post Falls star Lovett into quarters of NCAAs
The quarterfinals begin at 9 a.m., and will be broadcast on ESPNU.
PREP ROUNDUP: Ziegler's slam lifts Trojans
Post Falls faces Bishop Kelly and Capital of Boise today at Capital High.
Weekend TV/Radio highlights
Television, radio and streaming highlights for upcoming weekend.

Quadruple murder sentencing Monday
The man who pleaded guilty to killing a family of four in Kellogg last summer will be sentenced Monday.

'Big impact'
Sue Thilo, Becca Stinson honored at UWNI annual awards luncheon
Thilo received the Volunteer of the Year award, while Becca Stinson with St. Vincent de Paul received the Nonprofit Professional of the Year award at the Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn on Thursday.

Health care challenges urge innovation
'Community Conversations' has people talking abut problems, solutions
Economic challenges are a part of every industry, and are not only found in the region. Similar challenges face communities across the nation, but collaborations are bringing talks of solutions to the table. On Thursday, the Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber, in collaboration with North Idaho College and Kootenai Health held a public panel discussion about the regional healthcare workforce and some surrounding challenges.

Salud! Margarita mix-off April 13
Agave event to support Post Falls Rotary
No need to wait until Cinco de Mayo to enjoy fine tequila. Prime your palate for the party April 13 during Post Fall's Rotary's famous Agave margarita mix-off contest, from 4-7 p.m. at Nashville North, 6361 W. Seltice Way, Post Falls.

'Appreciation for Life'
Online Art Talk with Meidi Karampour at 6 p.m. Saturday
The Art Spirit Gallery will host its next session of Art Talks, “An Appreciation For Life” featuring a talk by Persian painter Meidi Karampour, online via Zoom from 6-7 p.m. Saturday.

Shirley Ann Schneider, 79
Shirley Ann Schneider, 79, of Osburn, Idaho, passed away on March 16, 2024, at Shoshone Medical Center in Kellogg, Idaho.

OPINION: Partisan rancor takes a brief vacation
Here’s something that you don’t normally see in Washington — the Democratic and Republican leaders of the Senate Finance Committee standing side-by-side at a news conference, talking about a bill aimed to help pharmacists and patients.

Baconators emerge victorious at Battle of the Books
Students compete in reading competition
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NOTE: Shows why you should read the source
It appears the Editor did exactly what I recommend one shouldn’t do. Here’s a copy and paste from the Editor’s response to my “Make the Effort to Think for Yourself” letter to the Editor.

Randy Steven Hill, 72
Randy Steven Hill passed away on Nov. 17, 2023, in Coeur d'Alene at the age of 72.
NORMAL: Let’s hope Bruce Reed is right
Bruce Reed, Coeur d’Alene’s own son of Mary Lou Reed, Idaho’s great former senator, said what I hope is truth: “We live in abnormal political times…American people are still normal people…given a choice between normal or crazy, they’ll choose normal.”

Shoshone County jail bookings
Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail.

Cybersecurity option ruled out for Shoshone County HAVA funds
'Many people have no idea of how much work is put into the elections'
Shoshone County was one of many counties receiving grants through the Help America Vote Act to update elections equipment, but after a public hearing last month, county officials investigated other options than the original plan to purchase four additional ExpressVote machines.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
Where did the egg go for spring break?

Marty and Max: Real Estate Tango
Pivots are often used to accomplish tango dance steps. One's pivot must be stable, confident, and calm. This can make a big difference in the dance and lead to more control in one's embrace.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
Spring is here
Shoshone County primary candidates announced
The March 15 filing date has come and gone, but Shoshone County voters now know which races will be contested in the upcoming May primary elections.
Movie times
Movie times
EDITORIAL: Schools must adjust to changing rules
4-day school week is one way to attract students

Wallace Idaho Capparelli, 86
We regret to announce the passing of Wallace Idaho Capparelli, 86, who passed away peacefully on February 16th, 2024, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, at the Kootenai Hospital.

OPINION: Party on — Gem State heist
Last week I wrote about the need for political parties because they bring stability to our Republican form of government and how that stability is under threat from the Uniparty.

morning crash delays westbound traffic
A rollover crash along the westbound lanes of Interstate 90 outside of Post Falls caused traffic delays for morning commuters. **WAITING ON CRASH REPORT

MY TURN: Libraries flooded with joyful support
Support will help damaged libraries return to normal

OPINION: Stop spending my money on stupid stuff!
Here's one great way to stem the insanity.

Two dead in apparent murder-suicide shooting in PF
Two people in Post Falls have died of an apparent murder-suicide. Post Falls Police responded to a reported shooting in the 1400 block of Moonstone Street around 11:20 a.m. Thursday, Post Falls Police reported.

Shirley Ann Capparelli, 82
We regret to announce the passing of Shirley Ann Capparelli, 82, who passed away peacefully on December 23rd, 2023, in her home on Beaver Creek Road.

Say, 'Ahhhh'
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Idaho man gets federal prison for schemes to defraud
An Idaho man who formerly supervised order-fulfillment and warehousing operations for the Jacklin Seed Company received a federal prison sentence Thursday for his role in multiple schemes to defraud the J.R. Simplot Company and Jacklin, its former subsidiary, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Oregon.

Beverly Ann Snider, 61
Our beloved Mom, Sister and Aunt went to be with Jesus and the love of her life, husband Jon, on Wednesday, March 13, 2024.
Man fined for illegal possession of bighorn sheep
A man has lost his hunting license for two years and must pay more than $11,000 in penalties and restitution after DNA testing revealed the bighorn sheep he claimed to have salvaged as roadkill in Idaho was really harvested illegally in Montana.

Shoshone County examining leased properties
The formal workshop allows for ideas to be suggested and deliberated, and even receive input and questions from others in attendance – while still maintaining open meeting laws.

Irma Pickard, 82
Irma Pickard, 82, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, died in the comfort of her own home on March 17, 2024, in Cataldo, Idaho.

From a songwriter's heart
I picked up People Magazine While waiting for a plane They interviewed a movie star About his favorite things
POVERTY: Here are roots of problem
Referring to Sholeh Patrick’s article “Poverty Closer Than it Used to Be” — Sholeh suggests doubling the minimum wage. I don’t agree. It’ll drive all goods and services much higher, destroying huge numbers of businesses.
Legals for March, 22 2024
Legals for March, 22 2024
Thursday, March 21

Idaho prison gang member, accomplice sought after ambush in custody, may have killed 2, police say
Skylar Meade, the escaped inmate, and Nicholas Umphenour, the man who police say shot two Idaho corrections officers early Wednesday to break Meade out of custody, were arrested during a traffic stop Thursday afternoon in Twin Falls

Two dead in apparent murder-suicide shooting in PF
Two people in Post Falls have died of an apparent murder-suicide. Post Falls Police responded to a reported shooting in the 1400 block of Moonstone Street around 11:20 a.m. today, Post Falls Police reported.

One Tech Tip: How to spot AI-generated deepfake images
A lot of AI deepfake photos, especially of people, have an electronic sheen to them, “an aesthetic sort of smoothing effect” that leaves skin “looking incredibly polished,” Ajder said.

A small town suspended its entire police force. Residents want to know why
Ridgely Director of Operations David Crist declined to provide The Associated Press with even basic information about the suspensions, including the number of officers on the force

Escaped white supremacist inmate and accomplice still at large after Idaho hospital ambush
Three corrections officers were shot and wounded during the attack — two allegedly by Umphenour and one by responding police.

Man pleads guilty in eagle ‘killing spree’ on reservation to sell feathers on black market
Branson, of Cusick, Washington, sold an unidentified purchaser two sets of golden eagle tail feathers — highly prized among many Native American tribes — for $650 in March 2021, according to prosecutors.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: Thoughts as the NCAAs (finally) return to our area
If you’re a casual NCAA fan attending the games at the Arena, it usually isn’t necessary to have a local/regional rooting interest anyway.
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: With Madness comes some real good underdog stories
It tosses up a story every year. Usually more than one.
COLLEGE WOMEN'S BASKETBALL: Gonzaga's Ejim named AP honorable mention All-American
This is the second-straight season a Zag has been given the honors
PREP ROUNDUP: Post Falls tennis, St. Maries baseball fall at home on Wednesday
Results from Wednesday's prep tennis and baseball matchups.

Bowling scores: March 21, 2024
Scores from area leagues.

Idaho wolf trapping cut over threat to grizzlies
Idaho’s wolf trapping and snaring season will be shortened by a federal court ruling, which found that grizzly bears, protected under the Endangered Species Act, could be injured or killed by the devices.
Hauser Fire to float levy for first time in 21 years
Reset of $481K to help keep pace with increasing costs; open house tonight
The Hauser Lake Fire Protection District and Volunteer Fire Department will float a $480,675 maintenance and operations levy reset in May.

'We're trying to be protective of your information'
Mayor addresses cyberattack that shut down Cd'A's network
“It’s not that we’re hiding it. It’s that we're trying to be protective of your information and our employees,” he said.

Rolling through adversity
Parasport Spokane visits Lake City Academy on Wednesday
Against a backdrop of hardship and adversity, individuals living with disabilities can tap into regional resources to help them defy limitations and compete in para-athletics. Resources like Parasport Spokane help light the pathway for people living with illness or disabilities. Parasport Spokane visited Lake City Academy on Wednesday afternoon to support fifth grader Rowan Blackwelder and raise awareness about para-athletics.

Idaho ski areas set closing dates
Some ski areas have closed for the season, while others will close in phases through the end of April, according to Ski Idaho. For the time being, 15 of the Gem State’s ski areas are open, including three in North Idaho.
AT COLLEGE: March 21, 2024
Updates on area athletes at the next level.
State looking to minimize aggressive driving
The Idaho Office of Highway Safety is teaming up with law enforcement agencies across the state to campaign against aggressive driving from March 19-30. Drivers can expect to see more officers on the road targeting aggressive driving behavior.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
The doctor said I should do lunges to stay in shape.

'Women In the Woods' returns
There will be two classes offered by the Idaho Department of Lands and the University of Idaho Extension.
Lake Pend Oreille State of the Lake meeting slated April 4
Anglers and other members of the community who are interested in the status of the diverse fish populations to which Lake Pend Oreille is home are encouraged to participate in this year’s meeting.

MY TURN: Investing in Idaho’s forestry workforce
It’s no secret that forestry is an important part of Idaho’s economy. A 2023 University of Idaho study found that the forest products business sector contributed $2.5 billion to Idaho’s gross state product in 2022. The vast majority of the $61 million in state endowment lands money that went to public schools in 2023 came from timber harvesting proceeds. That means close to 30,000 of our friends, families and neighbors work in Idaho forests. They’re the loggers, truck drivers, mill workers, foresters, sales and accounting professionals who sustainably manage our forests to produce lumber, paper products, furniture and other wood products.
PHD offering free nutrition counseling
Grocery store tours will be at Super 1
The grocery store tours will be at Super 1 Foods in Coeur d’Alene.

Annual Idaho Fish and Game fur auction to run online April 8-22
Nonresident purchasers should be aware that their state may not allow import of certain animals or a

Wild and Scenic Film Festival set in Sandpoint
"It is a celebration of wild places, human resilience, and communities built on compassion," a press release said.
Hospice hosting advanced care conference
Many families are faced with the challenge of advanced healthcare decision making, and Hospice of North Idaho is hosting a free public conference on April 16 at their community services building at 2290 West Prairie Avenue starting at noon.
Idaho librarians oppose revived materials bill
House Bill 710 is the latest legislation to regulate library materials for minors
The bill grants county prosecuting attorneys or the attorney general the authority to seek injunctive relief against schools or public libraries found violating the law on promoting, giving, or making available material deemed harmful to minors.
Legals for March, 21 2024
Wednesday, March 20

Washington Gov. Inslee signs fentanyl bill sending money to disproportionately affected tribes
The state Legislature earlier this month overwhelmingly approved the tribes bill expected to provide nearly $8 million total each year until at least 2031 for the 29 federally recognized tribes in Washington

'Dangerous and abusive'
AP documents grueling conditions in Indian shrimp industry

French bulldogs remain the most popular US breed in new rankings. Many fans aren't happy
After Frenchies, the most common breeds registered were Labs, golden retrievers, German shepherds and poodles. Then came dachshunds, bulldogs, beagles, Rottweilers and German shorthaired pointers.

Federal Reserve still foresees 3 rate cuts this year but envisions higher rates in future
In their new quarterly projections, Fed officials forecast that stronger growth and stubborn inflation would persist this year and next

Idaho police search for escaped inmate and accomplice after ambush at Boise hospital
One officer shot by the suspect was in critical but stable condition, police said, while the second wounded officer had serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Other stuff to focus on, while we wait for Thursday
So, let’s be fair. For now. Besides, we’ve got the hoops just a day away.
PREP ROUNDUP: St. Maries, Timberlake split in baseball
Results from Tuesday's prep baseball, softball, track and field and tennis matchups.

Youth Sports March 20, 2024
Scores, news, highlights, etc., from local youth sports teams, leagues, etc.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Austin DeBoer, Post Falls High School
Post Falls High School senior baseball player Austin DeBoer is this week's Knudtsen Chevrolet Press Athlete of the Week.

Former ISP trooper convicted of murder
Daniel Howard will remain in custody until sentencing
Jurors convicted a former Idaho State Police trooper of second degree murder and felony domestic battery in the death of his wife.

Swans making safe stop
Deaths in Cd'A basin down from previous years
Peak season for viewing tundra swans in the Coeur d’Alene basin typically falls in the second to third week of March. Dave Leptich, Regional Wildlife Habitat Biologist with Idaho Fish and Game said the annual migration happened a little earlier this year.

Bill requiring disclosure of paid signature gatherers for initiatives heads to Idaho House
Legislation would require people who are paid to collect signatures to verbally tell voters they are paid and wear a badge indicating they are being paid

Hammond: Cd'A up to challenges
Mayor delivers State of the City address
“Sometimes, we’ve been kind of grumpy about those accolades because it shines such a light on us that everybody wants to move here,” Hammond said to about 175 people at The Coeur d’Alene Resort.

Cross at The Cause
Cross at The Cause

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Golfing got you down?
One of the favorite pastimes of both adult men and women is golf. Although this sport is not a contact sport, avid golfers, professional or not, are also prone to getting injured. One of many conditions that they may suffer from is chronic back pain.
Today's Ghastly Groaner
What do you say when it’s raining chickens and ducks in April?

RFB alert: Student crossing ahead
Rotarians, city partner on crosswalk rapid flashing beacons
The city partnered with the Coeur d’Alene Sunrise Rotary Club on the $10,000 project, and many Rotarians were on hand for the first official RFB crossing Tuesday morning.

Grant will boost organic food market
Local business at the forefront
The United States Department of Agriculture awarded a $3 million Organic Market Development Grant to ZEGO foods on March 14 to help expand organic and clean food access. ZEGO foods has a working partnership with a local company called Snacktivist foods. This funding will help the northwest regional market.

Yes, a simple checking or savings account can cause your estate to go through probate
But you can avoid this problem if you know how
Bank accounts and brokerage or investment accounts may be the most overlooked part of most people’s estate planning. There are some simple ways you can be sure your accounts will go where you intend upon your death, but your decisions need to be coordinated with your overall estate plan. Let’s take a look.
BILL: Sponsor shuns many Idaho families
Mr. Alfieri, you have just left out many families living in Idaho with your resolution, and I would bet even some of your colleagues in the Legislature. I won’t even try to name those, what you would call “a nontraditional family.”

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Uncork the best of Washington wine country
If you're a wine lover, there's no better time than Washington Wine Month to explore the world-class wineries and vineyards right in our neighboring state's backyard. With over 1,000 wineries and 20 diverse AVAs (American Viticultural Areas), Washington has solidified its place as the second-largest premium wine producer in the United States. From the fertile Columbia Valley to the scenic Puget Sound, each region imparts distinctive terroir and flavors into the bottles. So, grab a designated driver and get ready to sip your way through some of the most acclaimed wine destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Decoding food labels: Part I
While I am an advocate of and prefer a whole food diet, invariably processed foods enter the scene more often than I would like. This is true for millions of people worldwide. How do we navigate the myriad choices we have and try to stay on the healthy side of things? Because the population as a whole seems to be drawn towards eating healthier, and demanding a better quality of food presented to us, manufacturers and therefore marketers, are making labels harder and harder to decipher. Many intentionally trick the public into believing what they are eating is healthy. Just as we can make an evil person appear like they are an angel, and an angel appear evil, the same is being done with our foods with the caveat emptor (“let the buyer beware”) lurking behind the label.

Kelly Jo Brewer, 65
Kelly Jo Brewer 65 passed away on February 17, 2024. She was born on October 13, 1958, to Melvita (Beta) Brewer and Robert Hogan of Spokane, Washington.
March madness; 70 degrees again
Temperature high in Cd'A
Tuesday's 70 degrees broke the previous March 19 high of 67 degrees set in Coeur d'Alene in 1947.

OPINION: Democrats disagree differently
Israel-Gaza issue shows how parties handle passionate debate

Dwight McCain, 79
On a beautiful, bluebird sky day of January 18, 2024, on Mt. Spokane, covered with glistening fresh powder snow, Dwight Allan McCain passed away as he lived his life, loving every moment and in his perfect way, God’s Day.
PRIMARY: Sifting through some nasty lies
Brent Regan has used his column no fewer than seven times since the start of the year to tell North Idaho Republican voters how great the recent Republican caucuses were for them, and how much the average voter was being lied to by the local press.
Gonzaga's Ike named AP honorable mention All-America
Ike averages a team-high 16.7 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. He is shooting 61.1 percent from the field. He led the West Coast Conference in scoring during league play at 18.4 points per game at a WCC-best 64 percent shooting from the field.
EDITORIAL: Expecting the unexpected is a privilege
A friendly reminder that North Idaho's weird weather is a blessing, not a curse
SHERMAN: A solution for better weekends
I was running late and missed the St. Patrick’s Day parade this year. In the aftermath of the parade, as I was sitting outside Studio 107 with a glass of wine, I noticed how unusually pleasant it was. The reason was that Sherman hadn’t been reopened to traffic yet.
NOISE: Look up for worst offenders
Noise ch. 10.8 needs to cover planes/helicopters: that prohibits operation of any vehicle or engine that’s excessively disruptive, annoying or of reasonable sensitivities.

Top down and sounds of spring
Ruthie Clark always wanted a little red convertible, which seemed impractical during marriage and motherhood and life in rural North Idaho.
Legals for March, 20 2024
Tuesday, March 19

OPINION: Labrador's dereliction of duty impairs Legislature
Refusal to produce written advice is for political self-preservation

MacKenzie Scott donates $640 million, more than doubling her planned gifts to nonprofit applicants
Some 6,353 nonprofits applied for the $1 million grants when applications opened

As electric vehicle sales slow, US relaxes plans for stricter auto emissions standards for a while
The auto industry called the benchmarks unworkable with EV sales slowing as consumers worry about cost, range and a lack of publicly available charging stations.

A newspaper says video of Prince William and Kate should halt royal rumor mill. That's a tall order
The video clip published by The Sun late Monday appears to show William and Kate smiling as they walked together, carrying shopping bags. It said the footage was taken Saturday in Windsor, west of London.
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Zags, Cougars so different, yet so similar
Here’s the most critical similarity between Gonzaga and Wazzu, the one that likely will determine how far they advance in the tournament. Both have been outrageously erratic 3-point shooting teams, and it has cost them dearly.
PREP ROUNDUP: Nordman, Bridge, lead Coeur d'Alene past Timberlake
Junior Leah Nordman pitched a one-hitter with nine strikeouts, and freshman Kyndal Bridge went 3 for 4 with a triple, double and four runs batted in for Coeur d’Alene (2-2).

Rising rents squeeze Idaho families
Network: Affordable homes shortage means low-income suffer most
Maggie Lyons, executive director of the Panhandle Affordable Housing Alliance, said there is a large segment of the population in Kootenai County that needs affordable rentals, but the high cost to buy a home is equally concerning.

Hot and cold
Record 71 degrees on St. Patrick's Day giving way to cold
It was also sunny and warm for Saturday’s St. Patrick’s Day parade, which brought out thousands who lined downtown Sherman Avenue.

Jury to begin murder trial deliberations
After both sides presented closing arguments Monday, jurors are poised to begin deliberations Tuesday in the trial of Daniel Howard, a former Idaho State Police trooper accused of killing his wife three years ago.

Shoshone County eyes broadband
Examines internet infrastructure
In the 1930s, a push to extend electricity throughout rural America in addition to the cities through the Rural Electrification Administration. Nearly a century later, Colleen Rosson said the internet connectivity holds a similar status in the national spotlight, especially in rural areas such as Shoshone County.

Idaho bill to prohibit cities and counties from regulating knives moves to Senate
Redman: 'Knives are arms protected by the Second Amendment'
Todd Rathner — representing Knife Rights, a national organization of knife collectors, owners and manufacturers — helped craft the bill. Rathner said there are 14 other states with similar legislation.
In the pros March 19, 2024
Manzardo, who starred at Lake City High and Washington State, hit .381 (8 for 21) for Cleveland in spring training games, with two RBIs and four runs scored.

Under new management
While Inland Forest Management sold, little will change
It was 40 or so years ago that Dick Bradetich and Mike Wolcott walked into Bill Love's office at the Idaho Department of Lands in Sandpoint. The pair, Love recounts, wanted to let him know about their new forestry consultation business. Now, Inland Forest Management officials are letting the community know about a new change in the company with the sale of IFM to Georgia-based F&W Forestry Services.

Murray electrical project could be powered by grant
WALLACE – Idaho Strategic Resources had already planned to upgrade the electrical infrastructure in Murray, but when the Idaho Department of Commerce became interested in the project, the time seemed ripe to connect with Shoshone County.

Fatal crash west of Rathdrum under investigation
A collision Sunday on State Highway 53, just west of Rathdrum resulted in a fatality, Idaho State Police said in a press release. Two vehicles were involved in the crash, which occurred at 3:46 p.m. and State Highway 53 was blocked for approximately two hours.

Canyon Elementary celebrates legacy of hands-on education
While it may be a surprise to many that a school as small as Canyon Elementary School would be at the forefront of technology, it’s not surprising why Idaho Gov. Brad Little would be supportive of their efforts.

Avista customers near Kellogg to experience planned power outages
Approximately 110 Avista electric customers near Kellogg will experience a planned power outage on Monday, March 25 and Wednesday, April 3, Avista officials stated in a press release.
Silver Valley Sports Recap: March 11-17
Spring sports start in the Silver Valley
Drive-thru food distribution Thursday in PF
A drive-thru food distribution event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday at River City Middle School, 1505 Fir St., Post Falls.

Forrest Keith Spencer, 90
Forrest Keith Spencer, 90, of Bremerton, Wash., passed away at his home Feb. 27, 2024, from an extended illness.

Sholeh: Bring on spring!
Here's the story behind it.

Shoshone County jail bookings
Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail

Today's Ghastly Groaner
Why did the botanist turn down the gardener for a date?
Car seat safety checks offered at Shoshone County fire districts
Firefighting/EMT staff are offering a car seat check program for the Silver Valley for families on Wednesday, March 27 in Osburn and Thursday, March, 28 in Kellogg.

Donavon Lee Adamson, 75
Don Adamson passed away peacefully on January 28 after a short illness.
Man arrested, charged with aggravated DUI
Coeur d'Alene police Sgt. Jared Reneau said Marotta was northbound when he hit the youngsters at Fourth Street and Birch Avenue about 7 p.m.
Legals for March, 19 2024
Legals for March, 19 2024
Monday, March 18

Who is Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and why is he running for president?
RFK Jr. built a reputation of his own as an activist, author and lawyer who fought for environmental causes such as clean water.

Putin extends rule in preordained Russian election after harshest crackdown since Soviet era
The election was “neither free nor fair in any sort of way,” said Nigel Gould-Davies, a senior fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London.

Idaho considers a ban on using public funds or facilities for gender-affirming care
If the legislation is enacted, Idaho would become at least the 10th state to ban Medicaid funding for gender-affirming care for people of all ages
Monday TV/Radio highlights
Televison, radio highlights for Monday, March 18

Water main upgrade keeps flowing
First phase of $1.7M project funded by state grant
The project has relocated the existing transmission main into the public right of way. Another project feature was to construct waterlines to improve system looping, water pressure, and reliability, Rose said.

Take a hike
Grant awarded to Rathdrum Parks and Recreation
Over 3 miles of new trails will be added to the StormKing trail system on Rathdrum Mountain this year. Rathdrum Parks and Recreation Director Eric Singer said the city was awarded a $68,000 grant from Idaho State Parks and Recreation in January to help cover the cost of new trail development. His department initially applied for the grant in early 2023 he said.

The spring equinox is here
On Tuesday, March 19, at 8:06 p.m. PST, spring will officially arrive across the North American continent. The date is also known as the spring equinox, and this occurs at the exact same moment across the globe.
Turkeys on the move
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COLLEGE BASKETBALL: Zags a 5 seed in Salt Lake; seventh-seeded Cougars assigned to Omaha; Gonzaga women will host
Gonzaga’s men knew they were headed to their 25th straight NCAA basketball tournament. The Zags just didn’t know where.
NIC GOLF: Cardinal men fifth, women fourth at spring opener
“Teams were rusty for sure, as we only had two practice days before competing this spring,” NIC men’s and women’s golf coach Russell Grove said. “But it was good to get out and compete.”

Today's Ghastly Groaner
How does the sun listen to its favorite music?
Groups take on child abuse
Event set for April 4 in Cd'A
Idaho is celebrating Child Abuse Prevention Month in April.
Sunday, March 17

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: Locals could make bigger impact on Idaho football this fall
“Zach (Johnson, the former Lake City High star) kinda became a situational pass-rusher too, and played some defensive end," Idaho football coach Jason Eck said. "He did a good job on special teams. He probably played more on defense at defensive end than he did at linebacker. He’s playing Will (weakside) linebacker right now, but I do think he’s got some ability to rush the passer, so he might be a guy that, on first and second down, plays linebacker, and if it’s third and seven, sub him down to edge rush. I like that model.”
IDAHO HIGH SCHOOL ALL-STAR BASKETBALL GAMES: Good vibes at NIC ... State all-stars shine on Christianson Gymnasium for 21st annual game
“It was really cool,” Lake City High senior Sophia Zufelt said. “Especially at NIC. We’ve put a lot of hours into this gym (practicing, as a youngster, with her North Idaho Elite AAU team). So it was really cool to get to finish it off for the last time with the Lake City jersey on in this gym.”
PREP BASEBALL: Post Falls opens season with sweep at Sandpoint
“Austin hit the ball really well all day today,” Reese said. “His pitching was good, but he was just a little off and had some close pitches. But he looked good for an early season start.”
NIC ROUNDUP: Hobson has a day for Cardinals in sweep
Sophomore Kani Korok also hit a grand slam in the second game for NIC (12-2, 4-0 NWAC), which travels to Columbia Basin on Friday.
Former trooper on trial for murder arrested at airport
Howard extradited to Kootenai County, jailed

Green wave washes over Cd'A
Sunshine sets stage for a magical St. Patrick's Day Parade
The 30-minute parade with a “Green and Gold” theme featured about 25 entries. It was put on by the Coeur d'Alene Downtown Association in partnership with Idaho Central Credit Union.
A celebration of exceptional service
PF American Legion honors first responders, volunteers
It was an evening of surprise and celebration as the Post Falls American Legion Steven H. Nipp Post 143 honored the community's finest. Volunteers, firefighters, paramedics, deputies and more were lifted up for their dedicated service and selfless sacrifice during a Saturday evening banquet at the Post Falls Legion. The event was attended by nearly 100 guests.

Circle K opens at Stateline
A Circle K convenience store is now at 70 N. Beck Road at Stateline.

OUR GEM: Restoration Partnership selects Coeur d’Alene Basin restoration projects
The Restoration Partnership is excited to announce that 10 projects have been selected in 2024 to address natural resource injuries or services lost due to the release of mine waste contamination in the Coeur d’Alene Basin. Many of the projects will start in this year.
PREP TRACK AND FIELD: Timberlake boys, Sandpoint girls win at Bonners Ferry Invitational
Results from season-opening Bonners Ferry Invitational.
PREP SOFTBALL: Coeur d'Alene brings home first win from the Tri-Cities
Coeur d’Alene plays host to Timberlake on Thursday.
BILL: Best step to school safety
During the current Idaho State Legislative session there has been a guns in schools bill (H415) that is actually very irresponsible. Thanks to Sen. Jim Guthrie (District 28), Chair of the Senate State Affairs Committee, it has been re-written into a reasonable, responsible and well-regulated bill (S1418).

Milestone Announcement
See who's celebrating!

Today's Ghastly Groaner
Why do frogs love St. Paddy’s Day?

Sandra 'Sam' Kuykendall, 64
Sandra “Sam” Kuykendall, 64, suddenly passed away on February 24th, 2024 after doing something she loved with someone she loved even more.
CAUCUS: Original source is key
I was a caucus captain at the recent Idaho Republican Presidential Primary Caucus, and I personally witnessed a good example of why you should do your own research — beginning with the original source. There was so much misinformation and confusion about the caucus!
‘ILLEGALS’: Media covering up facts
Watching the news on FOX 28, Morgan Ashley did a clip of the state trooper who was killed by an illegal while he was parked on the side of the road. The illegal just plowed into the trooper’s patrol car, killing him. Ms. Ashley called him a driver. No mention of him being an illegal.

Karen Passaro (Faur), 63
On a bright bluebird day, Karen Faur Passaro hiked a mountain. Let’s say she was 26 or 62. At the top—the good part—breathing hard, alive in her body, she threw her arms wide, saying this day will be a memory.

Time to make a change
Aesop wrote a fable about a proud oak tree that took root along the bank of a stream. For 100 years it had withstood the high winds, until one day a violent storm arose. The great oak fell with a mighty crash into the swollen river and was carried down toward the sea.
EDITORIAL: Thankful for a juicebox full of joy
It's grand to stop, breathe and share.

Community Thanks
See who's thankful!
RULING: Still waiting for an apology
Here we are over three years later… Kootenai County Community Planning & Development, run by David Callahan, was forced to acknowledge they were wrong in my variance case which has since been approved. But not before forcing me through a punitive process that cost three times ($25K) what the actual project was supposed to cost ($8K).
GOP: Chaos ends up hurting everyone
In a recent My Turn, Art Macomber argues that Republicans in North Idaho should stop doing the splits. This is one of the few things that Macomber and I will agree upon. Chaos in the Republican Party harms Democrats (like me), too.
Introducing Cd'A chamber rebrand
But that's not all – our updated color palette takes inspiration from the breathtaking natural beauty of our surroundings, infusing traditional greens and blues with a modern twist.

This is typically NOT the best way to transfer your home to your children
Clients will often ask me if it is possible to avoid probate court proceedings after their deaths by simply adding their adult children’s names to their real property deeds while they are alive. If there are no other assets in your estate that would be subject to probate (which is a big if), then it is theoretically possible to avoid probate this way. However, there are plenty of reasons not to do this.
Kootenai County housing crisis: Second in a series
For nearly three years elected officials, building and housing professionals and civic organizations have been working together to build a ToolKit of Solutions to address the housing crisis in Kootenai County.
Saturday, March 16
Howard arrested at Spokane airport
Daniel Howard, the former Idaho State Police trooper currently on trial for the murder of his wife, was arrested Friday night at the Spokane International Airport.
PREP ROUNDUP: Post Falls boys, Coeur d'Alene girls shine in sunny Sweeney track opener
Results from Friday's prep track and field, softball and baseball slate.
NIC SOFTBALL: Cardinal bats break out in NWAC-opening sweep at Treasure Valley
NIC (10-2) visits Blue Mountain of Pendleton, Ore., for a doubleheader today.
THE FRONT ROW with JASON ELLIOTT: Shaking things up, or at least trying to
Newer might be better in a lot of ways. If nothing else, someone’s trying at least.
North Idaho Hall of Fame announces finalists for high school awards
The award winners will be announced at the annual banquet, which is set for April 6 at The Coeur d’Alene Resort and will take place along with the induction ceremonies for the North Idaho Hall of Fame. The featured speaker for the event is former University of Idaho offensive lineman Mark Schlereth, now an NFL analyst for FOX Sports. Dennis Patchin, sports director for KHQ/SWX, will serve as the emcee.
Idaho High School All-Star Games: Updated rosters announced
The 21st annual games begin with the girls game at 1 p.m., followed by the boys game at 3:30 p.m.
DISTRICT 1 ALL-STAR BASKETBALL GAMES: Viks' Orchard shines for East, earns MVP honors
The game, which matches the top area seniors, was postponed in 2023 due to slick roads, the second time in four years (2020) that the game had been called off.

Man charged after Post Falls K-9’s death
The owner of a Bonner County kennel is facing criminal charges after five dogs died in overheated conditions at his facility last summer, including a Post Falls Police Department K9.

'A wee bit Irish'
Nancy DiGiammarco is grand marshal for today's St. Patrick's Day Parade
The 19th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade is scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. today at Eighth and Sherman and travel west to First Street.

Primary candidates file
The deadline to file for the May 21 primary election has passed.
'The silly side of life'
Mamas in Business urged not to be too serious
“Who here feels like they’re on autopilot?” Heather Pincelli asked the audience at the Mamas in Business conference at Prairie Falls Golf Club. The conference featured “Beyond Limits” as the theme and hosted local experts, interactive workshops and networking opportunities for regional business professionals in attendance Friday. Mamas in Business is a supportive networking community open to everyone offering educational sessions and community-driven events.

I-90 Exit 15 off-ramp to close for tree removal
Signs are in place throughout the I-90 corridor in Coeur d’Alene to alert travelers of the closure.

Lake City High School announces fall 2023 honor roll
Lake City High School has announced its fall 2023 honor roll.
Sheriff's Office Notable Calls
The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office published the following notable calls that occurred between March 9 and March 14. The sheriff’s office describes this information as preliminary and subject to revision as investigations continue.
Best Night Sky Events for March 2024
March unfolds as a celestial spectacle, ushering in the first equinox of the year and a subtle shift in seasons.

Joseph Hoffman, 87
Joseph “Joe“ Hoffman was born on September 21, 1936, to Andrew and Anna Hoffman in Medford, Oregon.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
Corned beef and cabbage walked into a bar.
Bombastic brews bring awards
Four Bombastic Brewing beers were recently ranked as some of the best brews in the region during the first ever Untappd Community Awards. Untappd is a mobile application that allows users to rate and refer beverages they like. Over 11 million Untappd users rated thousands of breweries and beers last year.
MY TURN: Clearing up convention confusion
Support proposed Convention of States

James 'Jim' Elliston, 79
On Monday, March 4, 2024, the Lord called James (Jim) Elliston home. He passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends.
School and Senior Meals
School and Senior Meals: March 18-22
Donations
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FAST FIVE Idaho adventures await Lisa Reeder
Meet Lisa Reeder, who was born and raised in North Texas. Lisa attended East Texas State University, obtaining a bachelor's in accounting and a Master of Business Administration from Texas A&M University. She spent 30 years working in the U.S. defense industry. Lisa is married to Don and has a daughter in Texas and a son in California. She also has four beautiful granddaughters. Lisa is an avid quilter and loves to teach her granddaughters and friends to sew and quilt. She and her husband relocated to North Idaho several years ago and now consider themselves Idahoans.
Plan for a safe St. Patrick’s Day
Those who plan to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this Sunday should plan now for a sober ride home.

The Exhausted Dad: Fun with money
My kids know how to hoard their cash. While we don’t offer them allowance in exchange for chores, my four children acquire money in a variety of ways: Tooth fairy visits, occasional odd jobs like weed pulling or snow shoveling, etc.
Hot Wheels in my heart
Racing, crashing cars treasured days of childhood
My brothers and I arranged the tracks through the basement, seeing how far we could run them. We could set the jumps far apart to see just how far they could go. We could set the starting line on a table with a steep drop to see how fast they could go.
Food donations distributed by Kroc Center
Through the Families Feeding Families Program, the Salvation Army Kroc Center in Coeur d’Alene was able to distribute 4,452 pounds of food donations across five northern Idaho counties.

Streaming mediocrity: ‘Ricky Stanicky,’ ‘Damsel,’ ‘Spaceman’
Streaming services are capable of making good movies that don’t play in movie theaters, as proven every fall when Netflix unleashes a solid handful of titles intended to garner Oscar nominations.
Legals for March, 16 2024
Friday, March 15

Home sellers are cutting list prices as spring buying season starts with higher mortgage rates
The pickup in the share of home listings with price cuts is a sign the housing market is shifting back toward a more balanced dynamic between buyers and sellers

Why are so many voters frustrated by the US economy? It's home prices
The United States is slogging through a housing affordability crisis that was decades in the making

McDonald's apologizes for global system outage that shut down some stores for hours
The company said the outage also wasn't related to its shift to Google Cloud as a technology provider

Pierce Brosnan pleads guilty to walking off trail at Yellowstone hot springs, must pay $1,500
The actor issued an apology on his Instagram account Thursday, saying he “made an impulsive mistake” and calling himself an environmentalist with “the utmost respect for and love of our natural world.”
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: The uniformity of uniforms is not so uniform anymore
The Ducks are stuck wearing things like those basketball bananas — and they’re way, WAY past ugly. For a uniform snob, huh, what can I say?
PREP ROUNDUP: Lakeland bounces back for split in Bevacqua's debut at alma mater
“Our guys came out and competed,” said Lakeland coach Al Bevacqua, who played on state championship teams at Lakeland in 1993 and 1996. “The guys really started seeing the ball and putting some stuff together in the second game.”

Principal: No four-day school week at Charter Academy
Cd'A School District still considering budget options; pros and cons cited
The Post Falls School District went to a four-day school week. The Coeur d'Alene School District is considering it. In a recent letter to parents, Coeur d’Alene Charter Academy Principal Dan Nicklay left no doubt where his school stands on the issue.

Medical examiner testifies in murder trial
The former medical examiner who performed Kendy Howard’s autopsy stands by his opinion that she died from a gunshot wound.

Snack Pak working for the weekend
Silver Valley nonprofits keeps kids fed
The assembly line of volunteers worked like a well-oiled machine, collecting two breakfast items, two main meals to go, and some fruit and other snacks before depositing tied plastic bags at the end of the line. Silver Valley Snack Pak has been around for about six years, helping schoolchildren get enough food to make it through the weekend in Shoshone County when money is tight for families at home.

Opening doors for the next generation
Rathdrum chamber showcases local job opportunities
Approximately 300 students filed through the “Opportunity Knocks” job fair hosted by the Rathdrum Chamber of Commerce at Timberlake High School on Wednesday. Students were able to meet representatives from several industries including banking, construction, fiber internet services, auto care and more.
Weekend TV/Radio highlights
Television, radio and streaming highlights for upcoming weekend.

Idaho House Republicans call for traditional family values month celebration
Democrats say state should instead honor all strong families
Some Democrats who opposed the resolution said language included House Concurrent Resolution 35 was offensive to nontraditional families.
Are you a poet? Let us know it!
Send short poems to share for National Poetry Month
Do you have original short poetry you would like to share?
EDITORIAL: Three big reasons for health, happiness
Residents enjoy Triple Crown of health care

MY TURN: Here's how Banducci can be NIC hero
Time for duo to do the right thing.

Movers & Shakers
Movers & Shakers

Gary Charles McWilliams, 70
Gary Charles McWilliams, 70, of Smelterville, Idaho, went to be with the Lord on March 10, 2024, at Shoshone Medical Center in Kellogg, Idaho.

Soroptimist event helps girls dream big
COEUR D’ALENE – The more tools young adults have to advocate for themselves and pursue their dreams, the better. That’s the guiding principle behind a Soroptimist International of Coeur d’Alene’s “Dream It, Be It” career support for girls event. Girls from eighth grade through twelfth grade are invited to participate in the upcoming session Saturday, March 16 from 9:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds, Building 3 at 4056 N Government Way.

Smelterville resident convicted of unlawful possession of a firearm
After a two-day jury trial, a Shoshone County jury found Cordelle Slinkard, 25, of Smelterville, guilty of five counts of unlawful possession of firearms by a convicted felon Wednesday.

OPINION: Party on
Political parties are private organizations. They are the manifestation of our freedom of association, our fundamental right to increase our persuasive capability by gathering with likeminded individuals to petition our government.

ART INSIGHTS Don't forget that two-letter word
Not all art requests are equal
What is the most outrageous, difficult or dangerous art project you have agreed to undertake?

'It made my day'
Cd'A woman pleased when Little signs HB 444
The bill will amend Idaho Code Section 31-808 to exclude property acquired by tax deed from being gifted to other government entities without compensation to the property owner, according to the Mountain States Policy Center.
Movie times
Movie times
SOTU: May you rest in peace
I was about to start this letter with “back in the good old days” but then I realized it likely would not make it past your first screener. So I will start it with my view that it would be a very good idea for the State of the Union Address to actually tell us at least a few things about the state of the union.
RIGHTS: Don’t be fooled again
The constitution that says “Political power in Idaho is inherent in the people.” This statement is intentional, keeping the state house responsible to Idaho citizens.
DEFENSE: Why we have 2nd Amendment
Whether local, state or federal, law enforcement has no mandate to protect a U.S. citizen. They all have a mandate to ENFORCE THE LAW. Our founding fathers understood this when adding the Second Amendment to the Constitution. The God-given right of self-defense of one’s person, family, property, cattle, horses, etc., is an individual responsibility — just part of a well-regulated militia.
Golden anniversary
NIC Wind Symphony to celebrate 50 years at March 20 concert
Bold beaming brass, lulling clarinets, triumphant trumpets, silky smooth saxophones. Instruments played in the North Idaho College Wind Symphony are as unique as the musicians themselves, each with their own individual music that completes the sound as a whole.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
Cook 1: "What do you think of my Irish stew?"

OPINION: Precinct by precinct, take back your party
Take part in this critical primary election

Très chic: It's Cd'A Fashion Week
Festivities begin Saturday, show set for March 22
Designers, artists, models, lights, cameras and an abundance of action will color the Lake City in bold and creative choices when Coeur d'Alene Fashion Week returns this weekend through Friday, March 22.

Richard Lynn (Rick) Geaudreau, 65
Richard Lynn Geaudreau passed away on October 15, 2023, in the woods he loved. Rick was born March 8, 1958, to Richard W. and Judy M. Geaudreau.

OPINION: The presidential election from hell
It’s amazing. Seventy percent of American voters don’t want to see a Biden-Trump rematch, yet that’s what the two major political parties are giving us.
LEGISLATORS: Shooting at the wrong targets
The excellent column by Evan Koch gave this old Republican cause to feel a boat load of shame about what’s going on in Boise orchestrated by radical Republicans in the Legislature.
DIVISION: The more things change…
Talking Heads say our nation is divided… Twelve score and eight years ago our fathers (divided Federalist/Democrat-Republican) brought forth a new nation (once divided Loyalist/Patriot)… conceived in Liberty and dedicated to the proposition that “all men are created equal.” (Hence the division.)
Legals for March, 15 2024
Legals for March, 15 2024
Thursday, March 14

James Crumbley, who bought gun used by son to kill 4 students, guilty of manslaughter in Michigan
Defense attorney Mariell Lehman said James Crumbley “obviously feels terrible” about what happened at the school. He faces a possible minimum sentence of as much as 10 years in prison.

Colorado snow storm knocks out power for thousands even as I-70 reopens
The heaviest accumulations were expected in Colorado's Front Range region, where the eastern plains meet the Rocky Mountains and the vast majority of the state's population lives

It's not just 'hang loose.' Lawmakers look to make the friendly 'shaka' Hawaii's official gesture
Some say the only requirement is an extended pinky and thumb. Others say shaking the shaka is a no-no.

Montana man used animal tissue and testicles to breed 'giant' sheep for sale to hunting preserves
In 2019, Schubarth paid $400 to a hunting guide for testicles from a trophy-sized Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep killed in Montana

What's Pi Day all about? Math, science, pies and more
Pi can calculate the circumference of a circle by measuring the diameter — the distance straight across the circle's middle — and multiplying that by the 3.14-plus number.
THE FRONT ROW WITH MARK NELKE: Prep boys basketball rivals Lakeside, Lapwai come together in hoops… and in song
“They live basketball, so when they lose, they take that to heart,” Lakeside senior point guard Brutis SiJohn said. “They were up every morning and after school, playing basketball, preparing for this. We weren’t up every morning.”
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Where, oh where, is the Seahawks' next QB?
Seattle didn’t need a quarterback when Mahomes and Allen showed up in the draft, but there’s an opening for THE future star right now. Schneider and Macdonald are going to find a quarterback from someplace.
North Idaho 14-day weather forecast
North Idaho 14-day weather forecast
NORTHWEST NOTES: March 14, 2024
Dante Sawyer, a sophomore guard from San Francisco, was named to the first team. Jalen Skalskiy, a redshirt sophomore forward from Rathdrum and freshman Vaughn Weems from Federal Way, Wash., were selected to the second team for NIC, which finished 21-10 in its first season in the conference since 2016.
PREP ROUNDUP: Lake City romps over Gonzaga Prep in opener
Lake City travels to Lewiston for a doubleheader on Saturday.
AT COLLEGE: March 14, 2024
Updates on area athletes at the next level.

What goes around ...
Brian Hansen receives free 2024 Trax from Knudtsen Chevrolet
Bryan McConnaha, sales manager with Knudtsen Chevrolet, said they wanted to honor Hansen for what he did in June 2020, when in a gesture that stunned onlookers, he turned down the 2019 Trax and gave it to a Timberlake High School graduate.
Third Avenue Marketplace to open soon
New PF nonprofit of senior center, food bank aiming for April 1
Upgrades to the old Post Falls Senior Center building are nearing completion in preparation for the opening of the Third Avenue Marketplace, where food bank and senior services will be provided in one location. “We are so excited,” Executive Director Leslie Orth said Wednesday. “It’s surreal, it really is. We’ve needed this for so long.”
Body was moved, blood spatter expert says
Kendy Howard’s body was “significantly moved” after her death, a blood spatter expert said in court.

Calf staying put
Fish and Game monitoring moose that's been in town reportedly for two months
Moose not moving on

Bowling scores: March 14, 2024
Scores from area leagues.

PF Chamber's Reverse Job Fair set for March 20
Real Life Ministries to again host student event
Post Falls High School seniors will once again participate in the Post Falls Chamber of Commerce's Reverse Job Fair, set for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 20 at Real Life Ministries, 1860 N. Cecil Road, Post Falls.

Let there be LADYBUGS
Kindergarteners at Hayden Meadows Elementary released more than 1,000 ladybugs in their school greenhouse Monday.
Basic handgun course coming up
Sign up now to learn the basics of shooting handguns from NRA-certified instructors
The class will cover: handgun types; terms and definitions; safe handling; sight alignment; gun cleaning; recreational shooting and live fire.

Study: Glaciers falling to pieces
It’s been expected for years that the Glacier Park’s namesake glaciers would melt to a fraction of their former selves and eventually disappear altogether.

Wesley Alderson, 78
This is my last chance to have anything printed in a newspaper so I’m writing my own obituary. I was born March 6, 1946, in Carlinville, Illinois to the best parents anyone could hope to have, Dorothy Griffiths Alderson and William W. (Bill) Alderson.
Steps for Schools raises $48K for Idaho education
The annual Steps for Schools walking challenge generated $48,000 for Idaho schools, thanks to the efforts of state legislators and constitutional officers who participated in the Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health program that promotes the importance of physical activity.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
What do you get when two leprechauns have a conversation?

Movers & Shakers
Movers & Shakers
Comment for game bird season proposals open
Deadline to comment is March 24.
For those interested in commenting on a specific season proposal, click on the section you wish to provide input on below. Ducks, mergansers, coots and Wilson’s snipe

Colleen Louise Moreland, 82
Colleen was born to Colin and Jean O’donnell on March 18, 1941, in Seattle, Washington.

Claire McDonald, 79
Claire Lillete McDonald, 79, of Blue Springs, Missouri passed away on March 2, 2024.

BLM creates leadership positions
Idaho woman earns promotion
Michael Nedd, the current Deputy Director of Operations, will transition to the role of Deputy Director for Administration and Programs, and Karen Kelleher, the current BLM Idaho State Director, will assume the position of Deputy Director for State Operations.

Diving into the Science of Recovery
Arriving at their new location in The Shops, we met Gunnar Amos, Recovery Manager for BioPerformance Institute (BPI), who took us through the Regener8 protocol

Basic shotgun course at Farragut
Sign up now to learn the basics from NRA-certified instructors
There are only 20 spots available in the class

Ronald H. Johnson, 81
Ronald Henry Johnson passed away on March 4, 2024. Ron was born September 8, 1942, to George and Edna (Olsen) Johnson in Sandpoint, Idaho.
MY TURN: Have courage in fight against authoritarians
Impact of Christian nationalism being felt here
Legals for March, 14 2024
Legals for March, 14 2024
Wednesday, March 13
OPINION: For Sunshine Week, consider creating an Open Government Ombudsman
Happy National Sunshine Week! No, I’m not talking about the weather getting better and days getting longer but the time of year that Americans across the country celebrate the importance of open government laws to protect our right to know what public officials are doing on our behalf. One reform that we’d like to see across the mountain states in honor of Sunshine Week is the creation of an Open Government Ombudsman.

House passes a bill that could lead to a TikTok ban if Chinese owner refuses to sell
TikTok, which has more than 150 million American users, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Chinese technology firm ByteDance Ltd.

Putin warns again that Russia is ready to use nuclear weapons if its sovereignty is threatened
He also noted that he doesn’t think that the world is heading for a nuclear war, describing U.S. President Joe Biden as a veteran politician who fully understands the possible dangers of escalation.

Biden and Trump are now their parties' presumptive nominees. What does that mean?
Last week, the Republican National Committee ushered in new leadership handpicked by Trump, in the form of a new chairman, co-chair and party chief of staff. Trump's installed leaders then moved to fire dozens of RNC staff.
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: The WCC thud, and a big cat in Seattle
These Cougs, who perhaps should have worn name tags to introduce themselves at practice, finished second to Arizona in the Pac-12, currently sit at No. 17 in the AP poll — and will take a 23-8 record into the conference tournament beginning Thursday. Oh, and they’re a cinch to play in the NCAA tournament for the first time in 16 years.
PREP BASEBALL: Coeur d'Alene splits rainy twinbill with Sandpoint
Coeur d’Alene (2-2) faces Rocky Mountain in the North-South Tournament on March 22 at Rocky Mountain High in Meridian.
All-league boys basketball
Top boys basketball honorees from 2A Central Idaho League announced.

Youth Sports March 13, 2024
Scores, results, news, etc., from local youth teams, leagues, etc.

'That's our house'
Family chosen for Rathdrum home through First Story
Instead of being greeted by more home applications or a housing interview, the Reesers were instead met with a celebration when they found out they had been selected as the homeowners for a house being built in Rathdrum.

Standing on common ground
Jimmy McAndrew: Disagreement doesn't have to mean division
Looking back, McAndrew came to realize something, which he shared with about 125 people on Tuesday morning.

Body camera footage shown in murder trial
The night his wife died, Daniel Howard told police he believed she shot herself because he wanted a home she planned to buy in her hometown to be liquidated as part of their impending divorce.

Preliminary planned unit development approved
Concerns linger surrounding development
A modified version of the Hayden Sky preliminary development was voted through 3-2 during the March 12 council session. After nearly three hours of presentations and deliberations, the plan will be moving forward for a final plan to be developed.

Inventing the future
North Idaho students shine at Invent Idaho State Finals
They invented. They ignited. They innovated. Results have been announced for the Invent Idaho State Finals, held March 1-2 at the University of Idaho in Moscow.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Chelsey Cate, North Idaho Christian School
North Idaho Christian School girls basketball player Chelsea Cate is this week's Knudtsen Chevrolet Press Athlete of the Week.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
I was accosted by a guy with milk, cream and butter.

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Hope for Lupus patients
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), commonly referred to as Lupus, is a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause damage to any part of the body, but especially the joints, skin and organs. It is a disease of progressive damage, resulting in aberrant immune system function. It is characterized by inflammation, pain, fatigue, skin rashes and fever.
TREES: Re-leaf city parks, walkways first
I noticed the article on March 7 regarding “City plants future with trees.” This appears to be an effort to increase trees through the Re-Leaf CDA Program.
VOTING: Important info for May 21 primary
If you have quit driving and gone to assisted living, and your driver’s license has expired, you need to check on your voter registration to make sure you can vote in the Idaho Primary Election, May 21.

OPINION: This bill is a referendum slayer
Oppose HB 652

CHS announces fall 2023 honor roll
Coeur d’Alene High School has announced its fall 2023 honor roll.
Cd'A man sentenced for voyeurism, intimidation, drug charges
In September 2023, after looking through his girlfriend’s iPad without permission, Burke discovered nude photographs sent to other people before they began dating, a press release said.
CAUCUS: Some pros but more cons
Now that Idaho’s latest caucus is behind us (March 2), it is interesting to read the different takes on this recent change in what our present leaders of the Republican Party are doing. Was it a success?

First buttercup?
Buttercup cometh
CAUCUS: Strategy to limit voting is working
I have voted Republican since 1968. I believe in individual freedom and personal responsibility for one’s actions. In a democracy, freedoms are maintained and exercised at the ballot box. Many Republicans have decried the Democratic Party’s decades long push to enlist voters to their cause and fear that many participants may or may not be eligible voters.
VOTER GUIDE: Deserves local legislative support
We need a voter guide. The Idaho Senate recently approved Senate Bill 1273 and it’s now in the House. This bill, proposed by Secretary of State McGrane, would simply add candidate information to the voter pamphlet already produced at no additional cost. It would allow candidates to submit an up to a 200-word statement and a photo for the guide that would be printed and distributed to every household in the state and available online. Seems pretty reasonable and helpful information for voters, doesn’t it?
Idaho Senate passes bill to reinstate presidential primary election
State’s political parties would still be able to choose to conduct their own caucus under Sen. Chuck Winder’s proposed legislation
Sen. Scott Herndon, R-Sagle, voted for the bill, saying he liked the simplicity of the solution

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — The roots of Washington wine
As we celebrate Washington Wine Month, it's the perfect time to take a deeper look at the rich history and rapid rise of the wine industry in the state. While Washington may not have the centuries-old heritage of renowned regions like Napa Valley and Bordeaux, its wine story is a fascinating one of pioneering spirit, diverse terroirs, and outstanding vintages earning global acclaim.

Planting peas and parading on St. Patrick's Day
Back in the day, my late mother, Alice Rankin, was a master gardener, teaching classes through the county extension office.
'Couragous' Kootenai County kids tour state capitol
The students visited the Capitol to learn how state government works. They met with legislators who talked about their jobs in state government

Jean J. Klippstein, 93
Jean Jenell Klippstein was born in Los Angeles, California, on November 13th, 1930, to John Daniel Wisehaupt and Elda Emma (nee Rothenpieler).

William 'Bart' Barton Chamberlin, 57
In loving memory of William Barton Chamberlin, known as Bart, born on January 4, 1967, in Mesa, Arizona, and departed from us on February 3, 2024, at 4:44 pm, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, surrounded by friends and family.

Bobby Ray White, 68
Bobby Ray White passed away on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at the Schneidmiller Hospice House, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Is your estate plan too detailed?
It may seem obvious that when planning for what should happen after your death, more detail is better. Indeed, the problems I see with many estate plans have to do with ignoring some aspect of planning that should be addressed. However, the opposite problem is also possible. Let’s take a look…

MY TURN: Republicans do the splits
Here's how to fix the damaging divide in local GOP

OPINION: Democrats competing everywhere in 2024
Democrats will challenge in all state legislative districts.
EDITORIAL: Your neighbors know who deserves support
Press calls for endorsement letters for May 21 primary election

Beverly Gay Waller, 56
Beverly Gay Waller was born September 1, 1967, to Martin D. Waller and Diane (Nethery) Waller in Bellevue, Washington.
Legals for March, 13 2024
Tuesday, March 12

The IRS launches Direct File, a pilot program for free online tax filing available in 12 states
Certain taxpayers in Florida, New Hampshire, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wyoming, Arizona, Massachusetts, California and New York can participate.
Married Idaho couple identified as victims of deadly Oregon small plane crash
A husband and wife from Caldwell, Idaho, were the two fatalities

Kate's 'photogate' scandal shows that relations between royals and the press rarely run smoothly
The palace issued the image of Kate and her children — Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis — on Sunday to mark Mother’s Day in Britain

Pentagon to give Ukraine $300 million in weapons even as it lacks funds to replenish US stockpile
Ukraine's situation has become more dire, with units on the front line rationing munitions as they face a vastly better supplied Russian force
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: With the Mariners, it's never too early to wait 'til next year
It would be almost a miracle if this team (including the pitching staff) might stay healthy all season. Meantime, we’ve been looking at the future at spring training.

Experts testify in Howard murder trial
Daniel Howard’s DNA wasn’t found on the gun that shot his wife three years ago, a forensic scientist testified.

Room for everyone
Unlikely duo now housemates after housing emergency
One is a university student walking away from a checkered past along a path of redemption. The other is a community college instructor with a penchant for Shakespeare, disc golf and tabletop gaming. “You can have two polar opposites live together and it be wonderful,” University of Idaho elementary education student Paul Myers said Wednesday.

Partnership promotes safe holiday
DUI task force highlighting education over enforcement
One local business is partnering with the North Idaho DUI Taskforce to promote safety and education as St. Patrick’s Day approaches. Heather McDaniel, the public information officer for the Idaho Transportation Department, said a partnership with Watkins Distributing started forming approximately two years ago. The main goal of the partnership is to offer people alternative ride options so they don’t drink and drive.

Pinehurst call leads to false imprisonment charge
A dispatch call Sunday concerning apartments on Division Street in Pinehurst led to charges of kidnapping and false imprisonment.
Kellogg job fair 'a little like trick or treating'
The pressure was on as freshman Mykah Gray worked to try and keep the seal on the resuscitation training bag firmly over the practice dummy’s mouth. Elizabeth Babcock talked him through the procedure and modified his movements to indicate the best method to save a life.
Chip Shots March 12, 2024
Results, news, etc., from local golf leagues, courses, etc.

Silver Valley Sports Recap
Rosters announced for annual all-star game
The annual exhibition games features outstanding seniors from throughout the panhandle, all converging on the small community of Mullan for a fun night of basketball and celebration for the outgoing senior athletes.

Wallace (Jim) Capparelli, 86
Wallace Idaho (Jim) Capparelli passed away on February 16, 2024. We were so lucky to have him involved in our lives for 86 years.

Shososhone County jail bookings
Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail

Wesley Drake, 96
Wesley Ira Drake of Dalton Gardens, Idaho, a longtime resident of Kootenai County, Idaho and Stevens County WA and Southern CA, passed away peacefully at the age of 96 on March 2, 2024. He passed at home, under the skilled care of North Idaho Hospice.

Gloria Stuart, 96
Gloria Lois Stuart passed away Sunday, March 3, at home surrounded by loving family. She was 96.

Celtic justice had a feminine side
When Americans think of the Irish we imagine a stereotypical sense of fun. Shamrocks, jigs, and green Guinness. Corned beef and shepherd’s pie.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
Why do leprechauns love to garden?

William Oliver Hensley, 80
William Hensley passed peacefully from this world on February 23, 2024.
Legals for March, 12 2024
Monday, March 11
NIC SOFTBALL: Cardinals take two to wrap NWAC crossover
Freshman Jaylyn Christensen had eight strikeouts in the win over Centralia for NIC (8-2), which opens conference play against Treasure Valley on Friday in Ontario, Ore.

Housing market off to solid start
Spring could see more inventory, sales
He said investors are coming back to the market and start buying property and homes again, showing an increased confidence.

Snowpack improves, but not enough
Low streamflow expected this summer without solid spring precipitation
“Even if well above normal snow accumulation occurs during the remainder of winter, the Coeur d’Alene-St. Joe and Pend Oreille-Kootenai basins will end their winter with well below normal snowpacks,” the report said.

Public wanted for 'Community Conversations'
Free forum series aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the vital connections between education, health care, and business within our community.

Earthquakes in the Midwest with threats in the Northwest
Recently, residents in the Midwest have been concerned about the recent increase in earthquake activity in southern Illinois. Since the middle of November of 2023, there have been three earthquakes measuring from a 2.5 magnitude in early March of this year, to 3.6 magnitude last November.
Monday TV/Radio highlights
Television, radio and streaming highlights for Monday, March 11.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
Why shouldn’t you borrow money from a leprechaun?
Sunday, March 10

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: Journey to a title in Bonners — with a brief stop in Cd’A
“The whole process has been completely amazing,” said Nathan Williams, now in his fourth season as the Badgers boys basketball coach. “And the parents … it’s an hour and a half to Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, when we’d play an AAU game, and an hour and a half back, and there were so many times there was 6, 8 inches of snow. And we’ve got a game at 8 a.m. They’d always schedule us at 8 a.m., coming from Bonners. So we’re waking up at 5 … it was crazy. But the commitment from the parents and the kids has been amazing.”

NORTH IDAHO ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME: Mueller, Bopp, Eggers, Ross-Mattox to be inducted
North Idaho sports awards banquet set for April 6 at The Coeur d'Alene Resort
The four will be inducted during the Idaho Athletic Hall of Fame Banquet, which is set for Saturday, April 6, at The Coeur d’Alene Resort.

BIG SKY MEN'S BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT: Vandals bow out in first round again
Idaho finished 11-21 — the 11 wins the most for the Vandal men since the 2017-18 team finished 22-9. Since that year, Idaho won 5, 8, 1, 9 and 10 wins in the next five seasons.
IN THE PROS: March 10, 2024
This spring, Manzardo is batting .462 (6 of 13) with two RBIs for the Guardians.
PREP BASEBALL: Coeur d'Alene bounces back to down Seattle Prep to open season
Coeur d’Alene (1-1) is scheduled to play at doubleheader at Sandpoint on Tuesday.
NIC SOFTBALL: Cardinals go 1-1 to open NWAC crossover
NIC concludes the crossover against Lower Columbia College today at 8:30 a.m., then faces Centralia at 1:30 p.m.
'What’s going to happen once I’m gone?'
“What’s going to happen once I’m gone?” That’s the question many families and caregivers for people with disabilities have had when contacting agencies like Disability Action Center NW.

Malek earns achievement accolades
Idaho Women Lawyers selects local attorney for award
Every two years, the Boise nonprofit Idaho Women Lawyers presents one remarkable individual with a Notable Achievement of the Year award.

Historic mystery
Divers, museum team up to identify, protect old wreck
It's likely she was deliberately sunk; the rocks piled in the front of the bow attest to that. But her name? Her story? When she operated in the community? Those are among the mysteries the Bonner County Museum hopes to solve, starting that journey with a dive into a recently discovered historic wreck.

Helmszz Deep Ink opens in Hayden
"If you think it, they can draw it" is the theme of Helmszz Deep Ink now open at 9045 N. Hess St. (Unit C) in Hayden.
TRUMP: Not qualified to serve as president
John Gartner is a widely published psychotherapist specializing in borderline personality disorders. He graduated magna cum laude from Princeton University.

Steven E. Eller, 70
Steven E. Eller unexpectedly entered into eternal rest on January 15, 2024.

Blanche Donahue, 101
Blanche Donahue, age 101, passed away on Sunday, March 3, 2024, in Fort Mohave, Arizona.

OPINION: Housing problems — and solutions — focus of new column
Restructuring means important work will continue

Kenneth W. Graves Jr., 74
Kenneth William Graves of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, passed peacefully from this earth on Tuesday, February 6th.

How to make opportunities happen
In 1896, Emmanuel Ninger was arrested for passing counterfeit $20, $50 and $100 bills. When law enforcement searched his home, they discovered three portraits that Ninger had painted. He was a very good artist and hand-painted his counterfeit bills.
EMBRYOS: A reply to the physician
What an odd, preposterous scenario that Dr. Stormogipson has presented us with. As a medical doctor, he should know that every embryo has a unique set of DNA never to be replicated.
SATIRE: Another modest proposal
We here at Our Lady of Perpetual Conception have become aware that women’s fertility, women’s bodies and the ongoing need for service workers in the great state of Idaho have been commented upon at length.
CDA Regional Chamber 2024 Scholarship Program
Coeur d’Alene Tribe continues support for third year
“Education has always been a top priority for the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, and in these uncertain times, it is even more critical to support our students. That is why the Tribe continues to step up and challenge the business community to join us in supporting our students,” said Allan.
EDITORIAL: Can NIC's leopards change their spots?
Trustees are in final six-month stretch to do what they should have done two years ago.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
What did the toast say to the psychic?
NEW LAW: Know about protections
I would like employers to know about the Pregnant Fairness Act that just came into federal law last June. This act protects pregnant workers who need accommodations regarding weight restrictions, breaks, etc.
PRIMARIES: Open them to all voters
We are in the midst of primary season, when we select the presidential candidates for the upcoming November election. This should be a matter of great importance, but here in Idaho we have allowed less than two hundredths of one percent (.014%) of our population to make that determination for one of our major parties.
Saturday, March 9

REGION 18 MEN'S BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT: Cardinals feel the buzz ... No. 3 Salt Lake hits 14 3-pointers in romp of NIC
NIC, back in the Scenic West Athletic Conference for the first time since 2016 — when the Cardinals advanced to the NJCAA Tournament for the first time since 1997 — finished 21-10.
THE FRONT ROW with JASON ELLIOTT: Let the games keep on going
“Saturday’s going to be our first time on grass this season,” fifth-year Coeur d'Alene High baseball coach Erik Karns said. “But, we’d been outside on the football field each day taking ground balls before spring break. Having that turf field has been enormous for us. All three teams are practicing at the same time and each of the coaches are doing a great job of leading a different aspect of it.”

The 'Maximizer'
Jon Ness leaves Kootenai Health in good shape
The 68-year-old employed that strategy in his 13 years of leading Kootenai Health as its CEO. Friday, on his last day, a relaxed Ness sat down in his almost empty office for an interview with The Press.

Shasta Groene loses home to fire
People rally to help with donations, encouragement
who survived serial killer Joseph Duncan, now looking for community support to help her family survive house fire
Doctor: Death scene was staged
Kendy Howard’s death “bears the hallmarks of a staged crime scene,” doctors said in court Friday.

CLN votes to again pursue Redman Insurance
Insurance, job descriptions, staff utilization plan among tasks for director
The board majority plowed through several motions Wednesday during a special meeting of Community Library Network trustees at the Hayden Library, where the board chair had two attendees removed for behavior she considered to be disruptive.

Cd'A man gets 30 years
Granger pleaded guilty to the new crime lewd conduct with a minor
Granger pleaded guilty to the new crime lewd conduct with a minor under 16 and admitted to a sex offender enhancement

Yvonne M. Martin, 84
Yvonne M. Martin, the only child of Leslie George and Delores Dunn, was born October 28, 1939, in Flandreau, South Dakota.

Skating in the sunshine
Skating in the sunshine.

FAST FIVE Michelle Lewis dreams in color
Meet Michelle Lewis, a color psychology expert who helps people connect with the power of color in their daily lives.
MY TURN: NO on HB 652! WHY is the Idaho Legislature so eager to SILENCE voters?
On March 5, 2024, the Idaho House State Affairs Committee voted to advance House Bill 652 restricting citizen initiatives to the House floor, recommending passage.
School and Senior Meals
School and Senior Meals: March 11-15

Wesley Drake, 74
Wesley Ira Drake of Dalton Gardens, Idaho, a longtime resident of Kootenai County Idaho and Stevens, County, Washington and Southern California, passed away peacefully at the age of 96 on March 2, 2024.

‘Dune: Part Two’ pays off ‘Part One’ with more spectacle
With six Oscar wins and widespread critical acclaim, 2021’s “Dune” embraced the awe-inspiring scope of Frank Herbert’s sci-fi classic.

Oscar predictions 2024 — ‘Oppenheimer’ poised to dominate
After a long winter, the final act of movie awards season ends Sunday with the 96th Academy Awards. For the Oscars, the year of “Barbenheimer” will be officially stamped the year of “Oppenheimer,” as Christopher Nolan’s sprawling biopic is expected to win multiple handfuls of trophies.

Caroline 'Carol' L. Vineyard, 76
Caroline 'Carol' L. Vineyard, 76

HREI hosts 'Female Heroes of Human Rights' exhibit
One of the key pillars of Inspire Inclusion is the promotion of diversity in leadership and decision-making positions, the release said.

Joshua Miller, 43
Joshua James Miller, 43 of Meridianville, passed away on March 5, 2024.
Big Sky Conference men's, women's basketball championships
Schedules and dates for the Big Sky men's and women's basketball tournaments in Boise.

St. Patrick's Day celebrations coming up
'Best Legs in a Kilt Contest' at All Things Irish is today
Coeur d'Irish by the Rotary Club of Coeur d'Alene is scheduled 6 p.m. March 16 at The Coeur d'Alene Resort. It will include Irish dancers, food, whiskey, rinks, games and live music by Deep Roots.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
So many people these days are too judgmental.

Donations
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Legals for March, 9 2024
Friday, March 8

Kyoto's picturesque geisha district fights back against over-tourism with keep-out signs
In a city known for gorgeous temples and gardens, Gion is one of its most scenic and historical spots

Another burst of hiring shows off the resilience of the US job market
Many Americans say they are unhappy with the state of the economy

What do you get when you cross rodeo with skiing? The wild and wacky skijoring
Every winter, thousands of people converge on the old mining town of Leadville, Colorado, high in the Rocky Mountains
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: When your mind wanders from gutting a moose to other bizarre things
I’m trying to picture this. "It fell on my sled; it was sprawled on the trail," Seavey told an Iditarod Insider television crew at the Finger Lake checkpoint, where he urged race officials to get the moose off the trail. "I gutted it the best I could, but it was ugly," he said.
PREP ROUNDUP: Timberlake baseball, softball teams first in area to open seasons
Both teams return to action on Tuesday.

'In honor of beloved angels'
Gala to raise money for the Maddie Kaylee Scholarship Fund
A newly formed non-profit organization will be hosting their first gala June 15 from 6 to 9 p.m. The Made With Kindness Foundation was founded by Angela Navejas and her daughter Ashlin Couch.

Murder trial continues for ex-ISP trooper
Kendy Howard was a loving mother and grandmother.

'I don't like injustice'
Nearly 20 years after starting her battle, Kathy Hunt thrilled with HB444
The bill would amend Idaho Code Section 31-808 to exclude property acquired by tax deed from being gifted to other government entities without compensation to the property owner, according to the Mountain States Policy Center.

The Snake Pit: 'still standing after 140 years'
Enaville landmark gets new owners
Times have changed a lot over the last 140 years, but in Enaville, there’s been one constant: The Snake Pit. It’s been a saloon, railroad layover, hotel, logging landmark, brothel, and restaurant.
Northwest Notes March 8, 2024
Notes on Spokane Velocity soccer and Big Sky basketball postseason honors for former NIC Cardinal Julius Mims.

Big news coming from Tiny Town
The childcare facility in Pinehurst is in the midst of an expansion that will give them more than 4,000-square feet of new space.
Weekend TV/Radio highlights
Television, radio and streaming highlights for upcoming weekend.

OPINION: They’ve sold out your vote
Dorothy Moon, Chair of the Idaho State Republican Party (IDGOP), cares much more about the national spotlight than she does about the votes of Idaho’s registered Republicans. She is excited to change our primary voting system to an early caucus which she thinks might attract visits from presidential candidates. Dorothy wants national media attention on her leadership of the IDGOP and does not seem to care about Idaho’s Republican voter turnout.
High school art exhibition opens Wednesday
'Inheritance' to feature works of Silver Valley students
The third annual High School Art Exhibition of the Silver Valley will open with a reception from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday.

Hippity hop over to egg hunts, craft fairs this spring
Craft fairs, egg hunts and other Easter activities will be found across North Idaho this spring.

Kelly Jo Brewer, 65
Kelly Jo Brewer was born Oct. 13, 1958, and passed away Feb. 17, 2024. Kelly was born to Beta Brewer and Robert Hogan of Spokane, Wash.

Cd'A Charter's 'Drowsy Chaperone' opens tonight
Show runs through March 16
Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy Drama's production of "The Drowsy Chaperone" opens at 7 tonight in the school's multipurpose room.
TRANSITIONS: Path to better understanding
Regarding the recent letter asking questions about “kid transitions,” I hear you. I appreciate your passion for the well-being of children and the sustainability of human civilization. I would love to have a discussion with you about this.
KCRCC: You messed up, so own it
In a recent op-ed, Brent Regan claimed that Greg McKenzie, Michael Barnes and Todd Banducci did not go through the KCRCC rating and vetting process. Perhaps he can explain why they were listed on the KCRCC postcards and website as the KCRCC “rated and vetted” candidates? If they were not hand-picked and endorsed by KCRCC, then why did they fund their campaigns?

John Wheeler Cook Jr., 82
John Wheeler Cook Jr., 82, of Osburn, Idaho, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away on March 2, 2024, at Shoshone Medical Center in Kellogg, Idaho.

OPINION: Caucus saboteurs
Last Saturday, thanks to efforts by the Idaho Republican Party, nearly 40,000 Idaho Republicans were able to cast their vote for their preferred Presidential Candidate. This could not have happened without the Republican Party acting after the Secretary of State, the legislature and the Governor all agreed to cancel the March Presidential Primary.

Shoshone County jail bookings
Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail

Marty and Max: Inspect over suspect
One of the greatest moments in sports history was when the 1988 Dodgers beat the mighty A’s to win the World Series. Analytics had not yet taken over the game and managers managed with instincts instead. Injured Dodger, Kirk Gibson (Gibby) had just one at-bat, but what an at-bat it was.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
Did you know companies don't charge for new roofs?
PROBLEMS: Things to wonder about
Just wondering if anyone else has thought the following: With all the failed executions, why not use the fentanyl that is taking innocent lives by accidental overdosing?

Magruder and Beachey
South of Coeur d’Alene is an off-road Idaho treasure, the “Magruder Corridor” (U.S. Forest Service: 1980). It is 109 miles long. There are 117 miles between the two nearest gas stations. Almost 60 miles is rated as “four-wheel drive required.” At mile 60 is a sign directing to the site where the grisly murders of Lloyd Magruder, Charles Allen, and Horace and Robert Chalmers occurred in 1863.
Silver Valley food instability issues aided by local partnerships
The turnout for the Wallace Food Bank has kept steady since the dramatic increase they experienced this past fall.

Medical emergency reported at Lookout Pass
Lookout Pass Ski and Recreation representative Matt Sawyer reported Thursday afternoon that a man experienced a medical emergency and was presumed dead.

Kellogg man sentenced for sex abuse
A Kellogg man was sentenced to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to sexual abuse of a child by causing or having sexual contact with a minor under the age of 16.
Cd'A woman arrested after standoff
Meth found in home
After a short standoff, Brouwer came outside where she was detained while officers searched the residence and found a large quantity of methamphetamine.
SMC: Family grateful for kindness, care
Thanks to Shoshone Medical Center for your kindness and excellent care of my husband, John, during his recent hospitalization. We’ll never forget your kindness.
ARTICLE: Unfair shots at law enforcers
The front-page article titled “Blind Woman Shot 9 Times” is extremely misleading and does our excellent local law enforcement a huge disservice. We quickly learn the shooter is an officer, the woman committed no crimes, and she died — all on the front page. A clear implication law enforcement executed a blind woman. It’s only upon reading the rest of the buried article that we get the REAL story.
EDITORIAL: Answer library's call for helping hands
Damaged Post Falls Library needs extra community support right now

Art on the Green poster contest closes March 15
Submissions must be in by noon
Local creatives still have time to submit their work for the 2024 Art on the Green poster contest.
CAUCUS: No dead bodies to be found
In the editorial of March 1, “Is it a caucus or carcass,” don’t look for the carcass, there isn’t one. Everything mentioned is nothing more than a complaint about the majority Republicans and how they have decided to run their process of nomination in Idaho.
MY TURN: Mega floods, massive basalt flows and monarch butterflies
Twenty years ago Bill Buley of the Coeur d’Alene Press wrote an article titled, “Noah Next Door” (2004). The article was on worldwide catastrophism and geological methods.

Hagfest returns April 5 to Lake City Center
Hagfest Northwest, a new local tradition, will return April 5 to Lake City Center in Coeur d'Alene.
OPINION: The cluster caucus referendum on the Idaho GOP
Goal of fewer people voting was reached.
Legals for March, 8 2024
Thursday, March 7

OPINION: Budget amendment no easy sell
Elected officials weigh pros, cons of Constitutional Convention

Orchard expansion in Canada's wine country stirs fears a key wildlife corridor will be harmed
Terbasket and other experts worry man-made barriers are already hurting the corridor's habitat connectivity, further threatening at-risk species and jeopardizing the area’s biodiversity.

Analysis: First fatal attack on shipping by Yemen's Houthi rebels escalates risk for reeling Mideast
Wednesday's attack underlines the danger to those not even involved in the war

Analysis: First fatal attack on shipping by Yemen's Houthi rebels escalates risk for reeling Mideast
Wednesday's attack underlines the danger to those not even involved in the war

Why are clocks set forward in the spring? Thank wars, confusion and a hunger for sunlight
here's been plenty of debate over the practice, but about 70 countries — about 40% of those across the globe — currently use what Americans call daylight saving time.

OPINION: Attorney General Labrador has no business meddling in election security
House Bill 470 would create an “Office of Election Crimes and Security” in Raul Labrador’s office. That would certainly be a waste of taxpayer dollars. The office staff would have little to do because Idaho elections have historically been fair and honest. The Attorney General’s sidekick, Dorothy Moon, who now chairs the extremist branch of the GOP, was never able to prove her wild claims that Canadians were coming over the border to vote in Idaho elections. The fraud claims of their friend, the My Pillow guy, were proven false. Where is the need for this new office?

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: Reasons for both city rivals to be proud
Coeur d’Alene had a season for the ages — first league title since sharing one in 2016, first outright league title since 2014, first regional title since 2011, first trip to state since 2012, first win at state since ’11, when the Vikings placed third.
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: And then, boom, the Seahawks start the rebuild
They aren’t likely to settle for Love and a group of youngsters. In case you’re wondering, there are a bundle of veteran safeties on the free-agent market, and a few more who should be in that category shortly.

PAC-12 WOMEN'S BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT: Cougars bow out in opener
Bella Murekatete, a senior from Genesis Prep, had eight points, seven rebounds, two assists and one block for Washington State, which awaits its NCAA Tournament fate next weekend.

NIC BASKETBALL: Hard work gets Cardinal men back into Region 18 mix
NIC (21-9) is the fourth seed and opens the tournament against top seeded Salt Lake (27-3), who won the Scenic West Conference regular season title, on Friday at 4 p.m. PST.
AT COLLEGE: March 7, 2024
Updates on area athletes at the next level.

Bowling scores: March 7, 2024
Scores from area leagues.

Local karate team wins international tournament
“Our Idaho team competed against larger international teams with more experienced competitors and won in multiple divisions," Siegfried said. "They represented themselves, their families, and the state of Idaho by performing with skill, poise under pressure, dignity and respect. I could not be prouder of them.”
Athol woman didn’t die from gunshot, medical examiner says
Police and death investigators said Kendy Howard’s death appeared suspicious from the beginning.
Drink is the Bee's Knees
Hayden whiskey bar wins Bartender's Ball that benefits animals
The Bee’s Knees Whiskey Bar out of Hayden came away from the 12th annual Bartender’s Ball as champions. This year the ball was held at the Coeur d’Alene Casino on March 2. The ball also brings donations together for Help Every Little Paw, a local non-profit that helps area animals.

Hear them roar — no more
City Council OKs amendments that aim to quiet downtown vehicle noise
“The gist of the ordinance has not changed,” Adams said. “We’re just becoming more explicit” to be sure people understand and to leave no doubt

Green thumbs in the making
Cd'A Tribal students keep busy in school greenhouse
Kindergarten through fifth grade students at the Coeur d’Alene Tribal School in De Smet are engaging in hands-on learning in the school greenhouse.

Glacier National Park receives over $1.9 million for ecosystem restoration
Bison reintroduction through the Innii Initiative is a Blackfeet-led effort to bring bison back to the landscape, and the herd is expected to freely roam onto National Park Service lands
Idaho student victims’ families decry ‘delay game'
Court appeal could pause murder case
Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty for Kohberger if he is convicted
Backcountry Veterans set banquet
Idaho Backcountry Veterans Sportsman's banquet on March 23
CDA offers free trees
The tree species still available are Emerald Sunshine Elm, Black Tupelo, English Oak and Greenspire linden

Today's Ghastly Groaner
What's E.T. short for?

KCSO arrests two after traffic stop
Over a pound of methamphetamine, a gram of fentanyl, a handgun and multiple pieces of paraphernalia were located inside the vehicle, the release said.

Youth archery class coming up at Farragut Shooting Range Center
Youth bows, arrows and targets will be provided by Fish and Game
'Talk Shop with Idaho Fish and Game' gathering to be held March 21 in St. Maries
Anyone from the public is encouraged to attend

Safety commission looks at crime data
Commission Chairman Scot Haug presented some statistics to the Public Safety Commission on Tuesday, and said he wants to ensure commissioners can understand the information so they can better help the public.

Summer 2024 Learn-to-Hunt-and-Fish day camps in the Panhandle Region
Similar to last year’s camps, the last day of camp will be focused on learning the nuts and bolts of fishing.
Concealed weapons permits to be issued from driver's license offices
CWP applicants need to use the Qless App or KCSO website to select the date, time, and type of permit for your appointment.

MY TURN: How to empower social workers
Social workers tackle some of society's toughest problems
Legals for March, 7 2024
Wednesday, March 6

Workers expressed concern over bowed beams, structural issues before Idaho hangar collapse killed 3
A woman who answered the phone Wednesday at Big D Builders said owner Dennis Durrant declined to comment to The Associated Press.

Momentum builds in major homelessness case before U.S. Supreme Court
The U.S. experienced a dramatic 12% increase in homelessness last year to its highest reported level, a federal report found

Trump has become the last Republican standing in the 2024 primary
Here's how he bulldozed the field

Europe's Digital Markets Act is forcing tech giants to make changes. Here's what that will look like
The new rules have broad but vague goals of making digital markets “fairer” and “more contestable."
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Gimme a good 2 instead of a bunch of 3s any day
The 3-pointer was a carnival act when it was introduced (1967), and now it’s taken over the sport. Watching Steph Curry routinely can jumpers from 40 feet, there have been NBA gurus suggesting that we need ANOTHER line to signify a 4-point heave. Please, spare me the circus.
All-league basketball
Top honorees announced for area leagues.

Youth Sports March 6, 2024
Scores, news, highlights, etc., from local youth teams, leagues, et al ...

College basketball: Murekatete honored again; Fortier, Ejim earn WCC awards
Top players announced for West Coast Conference, Pac-12 Conference.

‘She was scared to death’: Friends testify in murder trial
People close to the late Kendy Howard told jurors she was scared of her husband but looking forward to a new life without him in the days before her death.

It's snow wonderful
Ski resorts report best conditions of the season with recent snowfall
Gus Colburn with Silver Mountain Resort said they have received 44 inches of snow in the last two weeks. That gives them 88 inches of snow at the summit and 57 inches at the lodge.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Carson Leonard, Lakeland High School
Lakeland High School freshman Carson Leonard is this week's Knudtsen Chevrolet Press Athlete of the Week.

Cd'A police rolling out ebike patrols
Will ride in downtown area starting May 1
Police received a Justice Assistance Grant of $31,770 to purchase six ebikes and related equipment

CDA mayor to offer State of the City
Hammond will share his vision for Coeur d'Alene and unveil strategic initiatives.

Buttons highlight children's literature
Guests to the Coeur d’Alene Public Library can take a walk through history because the Historic Button Club has a display set up through the month of March. Simone Kincaid with the club said they set up the display to correlate with National Button Week which starts March 11.

Signing photos March 6, 2024
Local high school athletes committing to play at the next level.
EDITORIAL: Tackling societal threat at ground level
Our children — and our future — are in serious trouble.

Is estate planning different for women?
Let’s start by acknowledging that estate planning is incredibly important for every adult person in America. No matter what level of wealth, or lack thereof, and no matter what your gender, marital status, or age, if you are an American over the age of 18, you should have at least basic estate planning in place. By “basic estate planning,” I simply mean the collection of documents that establish what will happen to you, your family, and the things you own if you become unable to make your own decisions (“incapacitated”) or upon your death.

Lynn Wolfe, 69
Lynn Marie Wolfe joined our Lord in Heaven on November 14, 2023, from her home in Prescott, Arizona.

Linda Dawson, 80
Linda Lou Dawson went home to be with Jesus and many of her loved ones, on February 2, 2024.

Darrin K. Lovitt, 50
Darrin Lovitt passed peacefully on March 1, 2024, when his heart could not beat any longer, surrounded by his family and friends.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
What award did the dentist win?

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Energy drinks: Are they worth the risk?
The same pick-me-up that powers you through a boring afternoon meeting or late-night deadline could be silently setting your body up for some serious health problems. A 2013 report from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration outlines a drastic climb in energy-drink-related emergency room visits. With cans lining gas station and grocery store coolers across the nation, these beverages have become a billion-dollar industry in the United States. Energy drinks are very popular, globally the energy drink market was worth $39 billion in 2013 and is forecast to reach $61 billion by 2021. But research is citing major health implications due to the consumption of these pick me up drinks.
PUTIN: Opinion piece divorced from reality
Having just read the guest opinion piece by Reid Harlocker I can only shake my head in both wonder and dismay. In this case I wonder how folks become so disconnected from fact/reality and yet are so passionate about their misinformed view; dismayed because they are in hard denial of the realities.
PRIMARIES: Open is better for Idaho
We The People. It’s not we the Republicans. Over the last couple decades, the Idaho GOP has spent more time on legislation favoring their party than they have any other issue. You know, the issues actually pertaining to the state of Idaho. And politics ain’t one of them.

David Samuel Estes, 54
Remembering David Samuel Estes April 10, 1969 ~~ February 1, 2024. Too short of a stay, Brother
PUTIN: A vote for My Turn writer
Reid Harlocker’s My Turn article from Feb. 29 was right on target! Reid, you have hit the nail square on the head.
Most of Idaho’s registered Republicans didn’t vote in GOP presidential caucus
Turnout nearly 9% in Kootenai County
Caucus results released Saturday by the Idaho Republican Party shows that 39,584 votes were cast in the caucus, which was only open to registered Republican voters who met the party’s Dec. 31 affiliation deadline

OPINION: Disaffected Rs, this one's for you
You might be pleasantly surprised what the Democratic Party has to offer.
OPINION: Promoting children's behavioral health: Why Idaho needs stricter access to technology in schools
As members of the Idaho Behavioral Health Council, we are deeply concerned about the increasing behavioral health issues among children, particularly those stemming from the misuse of technology and social media. House Bill 663 will provide for more restrictive access to phones and social media in schools for children, alongside the implementation of a digital literacy course. This bill aims to address the negative impacts of excessive screen time and empower students to navigate the digital world responsibly.

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Neuropathy helped naturally
The screaming pain of neuropathy can be life altering, and the milder annoying tingling, burning, and numbness of it can alter quality of life as well. We trust our limbs to be healthy and cooperate with our daily activities. Some people describe it as feeling like they have a piece of leather between their foot and the floor while barefoot. The loss of sensation can cause loss of balance, weakness, lack of coordination and muscle wasting, making it challenging to walk, stand or use the hands for fine motor skills, frequently dropping things.
SCHOOLS: Separate steak from baloney
Shon Hocker, Coeur d’Alene School District superintendent, is back at the trough, literally begging for more of your hard earned tax dollars.

Beatrice 'Bea' Carney, 85
Beatrice Lolita Blanchard Neely Carney March 29, 1938 — Feb. 19, 2024

Are power lunches still powerful?
The era of the three martini lunch is long past but doing lunch with clients, customers or prospects is still a thing, or is it?

Redman running for re-election
Jordan Redman, the incumbent Idaho House Representative for District 3 Seat B, officially declared his candidacy for re-election in the upcoming election cycle. Throughout his tenure, Redman has been a tireless advocate for legislation supporting local businesses and the local economy.
Lakeland senior awarded
One senior at Lakeland High School came away from the Model United Nations Competition with an award for excellence and service. Alexandrea Hall has been involved in Model U.N. for three years, and brought home the Fred Cornforth Award this year. This year's competition was held from Feb. 22-24 at the Frank Church Institute at Boise State University.
OPINION: Voter registration facts for May primary
March 15 is a key date for Republicans.

Barbara Wimmer Garbinski, 82
Barbara Wimmer Garbinski fell asleep in the Lord on February 27, 2024.

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Uncorking the Treasures: A journey through Washington's celebrated AVAs
Washington Wine Month is currently underway, offering wine enthusiasts a golden opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Washington's thriving wine industry. This annual celebration invites you to explore the unique terroirs that have captured the hearts and palates of connoisseurs worldwide, with each sip unveiling the state's vinous treasures.

Ellsworth (Al) Holm, 88
Al Holm was born 88 years ago to Florestine Brien Holm and Floyd Holm in Little Sunburst, Montana. The family moved to a farm in Hayden Lake, Idaho in 1943.
BORDER: Two visits, one lopsided story
Last week both Trump and Biden went down to the southern border. What a disgraceful debacle on Biden’s part. As expected, he went after Republicans for this crisis which he single-handedly and deliberately created.
MOON: Letter lands on wrong lunar target
Regarding Ron Dayton’s letter, “Moon Landing was a waste of time.” I was impressed with his credentials but he totally missed the point regarding Tom Mueller’s message to the students… If you want to achieve something, you need to work for it… And you don’t need an Ivy League education to achieve your goals.
DAMAGE: It follows elected ‘leaders’
The three Stooges (Trustees Ottosen, Hanley and Plass) who are piloting the Clown Car known as the Community Library Network continue their erratic drive to demolish our wonderful local library system.
Legals for March, 6 2024
Tuesday, March 5

Biden and Trump are sweeping Super Tuesday races and moving closer to a November rematch
Biden and Trump had each won Texas, Alabama, Colorado, Maine, Oklahoma, Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Arkansas, Minnesota and Massachusetts
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: M's need Brash — and his elbow — to keep cleaning things up
The club can find another good reliever, maybe another closer — but it will be almost impossible to come up with a Cleaner. Brash, his doctors and the club all believe that normal treatment has reduced this inflammation. We’ll know in a couple of days, after he’s back to throwing. I don’t need to tell you how critical this result will be.

Former Lake City star Gordon wins NAIA national title in 800
Gordon showed off his kick in the final meters of the 800. He was in the middle of the pack for most of the race before passing the group in the final strides to join Clayton VanDyke as the only two Warrior men to win titles at the distance. Gordon ran the second-best time in school history at 1 minute, 51.00 seconds.

Murder trial for former ISP trooper begins
A former Idaho State Police trooper is on trial for allegedly killing his wife three years ago.

Winter marches on
Monday's snowfall breaks 107-year-old record
An unexpected storm dumped 5.7 inches of snow on Coeur d’Alene as of 4 p.m. Tuesday, and more was falling.
Warriors for clean water
Volunteers with the Idaho Conservation League honored
A group of volunteers working with the Idaho Conservation League were given an award for their efforts in water conservation. The Idaho Nonprofit Center presented them with the award Monday at the Human Rights Education Institute in Coeur d’Alene.

40th anniversary show opens at Sixth Street Theater
This past weekend marked the opening of the 40th Anniversary Reunion Show at the Sixth Street Melodrama and Theater – a show rooted in memories and nostalgia. The show leans into the theater’s history and features a revolving cast of current actors as well as many former thespians from the past four decades.
WCC BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS: Gonzaga men, women earn byes to Monday's semifinals
Gonzaga's men and women each earned triple byes into this week’s West Coast Conference men’s and women's basketball tournaments starting Thursday at Orleans Arena in Las Vegas.

Calls impacting ambulance district budget
Contract may need to be adjusted
During a recent Shoshone County Ambulance Service District meeting with the Shoshone County Board of County Commissioners, the joke was made that the district services have gotten “better with age” as the group has navigated its first three years.
Idaho gas prices climb
Gem State still below the national average, but rising in the rankings

Autoimmune disease: Yes, it’s real
Being believed is a big step in right direction
Benefit for Eric Tester
A spaghetti fundraising dinner and auction event for Eric Tester is being held at 4 p.m. Saturday, March 9 at the Morning Club at117 Hunter St in Mullan.
'Dream It, Be It' coming up
Program aims to help girls grow up to be strong, successful, happy

Fetal remains found in sewer, not storm drain
Investigation continues
The Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office's initial release stated that the fetal remains were found in a storm drain – however, they were actually found in a sewer line.

Joseph Patrick 'Pat' Acuff, 78
Joseph Patrick “Pat” Acuff, left his beloved Coeur d’Alene on February 9, 2024.

Silver Valley Sports Recap: Feb. 26 - March 3
That's a wrap for winter sports. Kellogg wrestling will miss their graduating seniors. All-League girls basketball teams announced.

Shoshone County jail bookings
Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail

Joan Barbara (Prendergast) Head, 89
Joan B. (Prendergast) Head, 89, of Kellogg, Idaho, passed away on March 1, 2024, at Silverton of Cascadia.

Oma Phyllis Davis, 89
Oma Phyllis Davis, 89, a longtime resident of Mullan, Idaho, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister passed away on March 1, 2024, at Kootenai Health in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

James Joseph Polla, 83
James Joseph Polla, 83, of Mullan, Idaho and lifelong resident of the Silver Valley, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2024, at Silverton Health and Rehabilitation of Cascadia in Silverton, Idaho.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
What’s a dentist’s favorite kind of dinosaur?

Terry Robert Dellinger, 53
Terry Robert Dellinger, 53, of Prichard, Idaho, passed away on February 25, 2024, at The Schneidmiller Hospice House in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Patricia Bailey, 89
Patricia Ann (Larsen) Bailey July 30, 1934 – February 25, 2024

Margaret Ann Wilson, 84
Margaret Ann Ashworth Wilson was born in Masterson, New Zealand on January 26th, 1940 to “Nell” and William Ashworth.
Sandpoint man dies in avalanche
Lance J. Gidley, 54, of Sandpoint, was caught in an avalanche Friday afternoon in the remote area of Boundary County.
Legals for March, 5 2024
Monday, March 4
Trains collide near Bonners Ferry
Boundary County Dispatch was notified of the head-on collision between the two Union Pacific trains on the road, located about a half-mile west of Bonners Ferry.

Supreme Court restores Trump to ballot
Rejects state attempts to ban him over Capitol attack

More mountain snow expected even as powerful blizzard moves out of Northern California
More than 7 feet of snow fell in some locations and fierce winds lashed the Sierra over the weekend.

Abortion is enshrined as a constitutional right in France after lawmakers approve an amendment
The right to an abortion has broad support among the French public
Stoddard Barn contract approved
Wildlife removal is first phase
A $41,000 contract to remove nuisance wildlife from the Stoddard Barn was unanimously approved during Tuesday's city council session. The contract is with Bayuk Enterprises, and the wildlife removal is slated to be done by Northwest Conservation Services, owned by Tyler Lowe.
Slime and CPR
Anticipation was in the air during a Ramsey Magnet School of Science school assembly Friday afternoon. And slime was soon to follow.

A history of daylight saving time
On Sunday, March 10, most U.S. and European residents will once again move their clocks forward one hour. Daylight saving time is the cycle that starts in the second week of March and ends in the first week of November.
Monday TV/Radio highlights
Television and radio highlights for Monday, March 4, 2024

Hayden cheer team moves on to U.S. finals in Disney World
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City may muffle revving engines
Council to consider tougher noise laws
The city continues to receive complaints about the noise generated by vehicular traffic from citizens who live, shop, dine, or recreate near streets.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
I gave up my career as a plumber.
Sunday, March 3

Hundreds of inmates flee after armed gangs storm Haiti's main prison, leaving bodies behind
Haiti’s government urged calm as it sought to find the killers, kidnappers and perpetrators of other violent crimes that it said escaped during the outbreak of violence.

In Hawaii, coral is the foundation of life. What happened to it after the Lahaina wildfire?
A bill before the state House would provide long-term funding for water quality monitoring in hopes of providing answers for residents whose lives are closely tied to the ocean.

Key Northern California highway closed as snow continues to fall in the blizzard-hit Sierra Nevada
The multiday storm closed I-80 and other highways, shut down ski resorts and left thousands of homes and businesses without power.

Trump wins caucuses in Missouri and Idaho and sweeps Michigan GOP convention
The Republican-led Legislature considered holding a special session to reinstate the presidential primaries but failed to agree on a proposal in time, leaving both parties with presidential caucuses as the only option.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: More on their minds than just basketball
“We’ve had a lot of stuff weighing on our hearts the last month; we’ve lost a couple players (in the St. Maries basketball program) in the last year,” St. Maries boys basketball coach Bryan Chase said on Thursday, after the Lumberjacks lost to Cole Valley Christian of Meridian in the first round at Capital High in Boise. “Not to make any excuses but … that’s something we always talk about, ‘Hey, we’re down here playing for these guys.’ Sometimes that can work one or two ways, right?”

STATE 5A THIRD-PLACE GAME: Vikings stall out in second half vs Madison
“I’m very proud of this team,” said Adams, in his fourth season at his alma mater. “Just how far we’ve come since I’ve been here has been amazing. From the pandemic, and just trying to get into the gym, to the Lake City super team, the progress has been amazing. You’ve got to have a group of kids that come together, and our seniors did that, bought into what we were trying to do and played the right way.”

NJCAA WRESTLING CHAMPIONSHIP: Craig takes third as Cardinals slip to sixth at nationals
Western Wyoming of Rock Springs repeated as national champion with 161 points.

STATE 5A CONSOLATION CHAMPIONSHIP: Lake City bounces back again, takes consolation title
“It’s huge for us,” said first-year Lake City boys coach James Anderson, who took over the program after coaching the girls program for the previous six years. “For our kids to come back, and we start a player in each class, with a whole new staff, it just shows their resilience. Coming into this season, we didn’t have that experience.”

STATE 3A BOYS CHAMPIONSHIP: At last — Bonners Ferry captures first state boys basketball title
“It’s unbelievable,” said Badger senior Trey Bateman, Thomas’ cousin. “We fought; we’ve earned it, we’ve done everything we can as a basketball team. Mr. Williams (Nathan, the Bonners coach) has helped us so much throughout life and basketball. My brothers (Brady and Seth) won a state championship in baseball in 2018, and that was so huge for our community, and it showed. We are unbelievably grateful and blessed to have this state championship here.”
STATE 1A DIVISION 1 BOYS CHAMPIONSHIP: No repeat — Lakeside’s bid for second straight state title falls short as Lapwai avenges last year’s surprising loss
“It felt weird; we started off the tournament good, but we weren’t hyped for today,” said sophomore Tyson Charley, Lakeside’s leading scorer. “Just weren’t ready, like we were the last two days. They came out more excited than us; they had more fire. They wanted it more.”
NIC ROUNDUP: Cardinal men fall, but advance to regionals
NIC (21-9, 7-5 SWAC) will face top-seeded and conference champion Salt Lake on Friday in an opening round game. CSI (22-8, 9-3), the second seed, will face third-seeded Utah State-Eastern in the other opening round game.

Trump wins Idaho Republican caucuses
Kootenai County Republicans voted overwhelmingly for Trump
Kootenai County Republicans voted overwhelmingly for Trump

Building a miracle
PF neighborhood to set example for homeownership through public-private partnerships
For two long years, Ryan Ryle and his fiance, Jayne Foster, tried to buy a home in North Idaho. Ryle, who grew up just on the other side of the Idaho-Washington stateline, said the couple would put in offers on houses just to constantly be outbid by other buyers who had larger down payments or cash in hand. “We even looked at new builds, but we needed so much earnest money down, we couldn’t save for it,” Ryle said Thursday.

Ironwood Family Practice opens in new building
After being on Ironwood Drive since 1986, Ironwood Family Practice is open in a large new building at 3815 N. Schreiber Way (Suite 102).

Linda L. (Fairweather) Folk, 82
Linda L. (Fairweather) Folk passed away on February 8, 2024, at home surrounded by her husband, of 60 years, James Folk, her daughter, Ronda Mein and Rick Bogar.

Stuart 'Stu' Barclay, 80
Stu Barclay was born in Spokane, Washington on November 17, 1943, and passed on February 5, 2024.
SCHOOLS: Consider the funding facts
After reading Paul Graham’s letter on schools, I had to respond.
Healthy soils protect our water
Public awareness about soil health has increased in recent years, and more people from outside of ranching and farming communities have learned about the role that soil plays in our world. Since the Dust Bowl of the 1930s, government entities like the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) have been implementing soil health initiatives. Understanding the complex interactions between soil, human health, and environmental quality is essential for sustainable land and water management.
EDITORIAL: Through it all, Ness has been more
Kootenai Health CEO retires as one of region's finest leaders
BARBIERI: Trying to block will of people
I feel it’s very disgraceful that one of our local representatives, Vito Barbieri, is trying to push through a constitutional amendment to preemptively block any chance that the Idaho Open Primaries Initiative would be able to be enacted if passed by the people.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
What happened to the dog that swallowed a firefly?
FROZEN EMBRYO: Take this telling test
I challenge anyone who claims to believe that a fertilized human egg is the moral equivalent of a baby to consider this…
2A: Don’t twist the unambiguous
In my time on this Earth (almost 80 years) I have witnessed several factions attempt to twist the clear and unambiguous language of the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

How to make opportunities happen
There is an ancient superstition of the sea that periodically a wave comes along that is greater than any that has preceded it. It is called the Ninth Wave, a powerful culmination of sea and wind. There is no greater force.

Do you know the difference between a Living Will and a Last Will & Testament?
Nowadays many of my clients are particularly concerned with making sure their legal planning includes planning for medical treatment and decision making. Often people are confused about which legal documents are used for advanced medical planning. Several estate planning documents have similar and easy to confuse names, which adds to the potential for confusion. Estate planning legal matters are already confusing enough, so it certainly does not help to have similar names for related but completely different documents. Let’s take some of the mystery out of two similarly named documents now: the “Last Will & Testament” and the “Living Will.”
SCHOOLS: Looking for the positive
Behavior problems, such as task refusal, disruption, property destruction, aggression, protestations and others, can result in serious interruptions in any setting — whether in the classroom, at home, in the community or at a workplace.
Saturday, March 2

STATE 5A BOYS SEMIFINALS: Shot to the gut — Coeur d’Alene suffers heartbreaking loss in semis as Timberline hits game-winning 3 in closing seconds
“I said it hurts now, but what they’ve done, to put Coeur d’Alene basketball back on the map … to play that style, to develop that style and set a standard for how we go forward," Viking coach Jon Adams said. "To have all these underclassmen there to see it, to watch what it takes — the dedication, the effort, the sacrifice, the struggle. They’ve set the blueprint for it.”
THE FRONT ROW with JASON ELLIOTT: A lesson in valley history
Chances are, if I ever had to repeat history in high school, I’d flunk. Miserably. Along with a few other subjects if I’m being honest.
STATE 1A DIVISION I BOYS SEMIFINALS: The 'underdogs' getting their date with Lapwai ... Lakeside advance to second straight title game vs. storied Wildcats
It is the second straight year that Lakeside (17-3) and Lapwai (24-2) will meet for the title. Lakeside won last year’s meeting 81-79 in overtime.

NJCAA WRESTLING CHAMPIONSHIP: Still in the title fight ... Cardinals, with three semifinalists, tied for fourth after first day
Western Wyoming of Rock Springs leads with 103 points, followed by Iowa Central in second with 97.5 points. NIC and Clackamas are tied for fourth with 91.5 points

STATE 5A BOYS BASKETBALL: Arrieta’s 3s, Strawn’s late-game heroics propel Lake City into consolation championship game
“Definitely put a chip on my shoulder, made me work harder,” Arrietta said of last season. “I had my ups and downs, but I stuck with these guys, and it’s been my best season so far.”

STATE BOYS BASKETBALL: St. Maries goes out in two in 2A; Bonners Ferry back in 3A title game
Swallows scored 11 points and Holmes had seven points and seven rebounds for St. Maries, which finished 15-9.

Early spring fling
Home and Garden Show opens at fairgrounds, continues through Sunday
Hundreds of area residents made their way to the opening day of the North Idaho Home and Garden Show at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds on Friday. Dozens of vendors were set up to offer a variety of goods and services to guests.

'A good serviceman'
Ray Almeida receives Quilt of Valor for military service
Ray Almeida, of Coeur d’Alene, grinned after he was presented with the colorful quilt by Kayla Main.

'Something we would entertain'
ITD, city say they would consider traffic light control change
It would involve a lengthy process and a memorandum of understanding, said Heather McDaniel, ITD public information officer.

Timberlake High School makes the college preparedness grade
Timberlake High School recently become the first school in Idaho to be nominated for the American College Application Campaign’s School of Excellence Award.

Sex offenders arrested
Two sex offenders are facing felony charges after police said they unlawfully moved into a home close to a school building, according to the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office.

Brushing up on your pet’s dental care
February is National Pet Dental Health Month, but maintaining good dental care for pets is essential year-round, as dental problems can also impact overall health.

FAST FIVE: Lisa Schaff: 'Our vote is our power'
Meet Lisa Schaff, a Coeur d’Alene resident of 12 years who has been a member of the League of Women Voters of Kootenai County since 2016. Lisa would tell you that compassion and empathy are the core emotions that drive her to work for the League. Fairness, truth and civil democracy are at the forefront of her values.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
I'm going to start collecting highlighters.

‘Drive-Away Dolls’ a diverting, ‘Diet-Coen’ road movie
The Coen Brothers make movies unlike most everything on the market. Even then, their filmography can be splintered into distinct flavor types, from something as gripping and serious as “No Country for Old Men” to the absurdist worlds of “Raising Arizona” and “The Big Lebowski.”

MY TURN: Power of the presidency
Author of 'Fractured' paints picture of nation's enormous choice this November

Movers & Shakers
Rod Clugston, Edward Jones financial adviser of Coeur d'Alene, recently qualified for the firm's Impact conference, which celebrates the contributions and achievements of 413 successful financial advisers from among the firm's more than 19,000. The conference, which includes financial advisers from both the U.S. and Canada, will be held May 6-9 in Scottsdale, Ariz.
School and Senior Meals
School and Senior Meals: March 4-8

The Exhausted Dad: Scrolling Facebook to feel young
As an Old Millennial, I remember the early days of social media. I made a friend named Tom at MySpace, and nobody yet understood the concept of Catfishing. Yes, at least three of my friends in college had girlfriends who were models in Canada.

NIC remains on show-cause status
North Idaho College remains accredited, though it will continue to operate under a show-cause sanction until spring 2025.

Edward James Fisher, 70
Edward James Fisher, 70, of Post Falls, Idaho, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 24, 2024, surrounded by his loving family, following a recent diagnosis and rapid progression of acute myeloid leukemia.
Legals for March, 2 2024
Friday, March 1

Botched execution of serial killer in Idaho puts focus on capital punishment secrecy laws
Neither his attorneys nor the public knew where the state obtained the drug or the exact qualifications of his executioners.

Putin foe Alexei Navalny is buried in Moscow as thousands attend under a heavy police presence
At least 67 people were detained at events across Russia in Navalny's memory

New York man who killed a woman after a wrong turn in his driveway gets 25 years to life
Michelini scolded Monahan for showing no remorse

Parts of the Sierra Nevada likely to get 10 feet of snow from powerful storm by weekend
Meteorologists predict as much as 10 feet of snow is possible in the mountains around Lake Tahoe by the weekend,

SCSO investigating fetal remains
The Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office is investigating what appears to be the illegal discarding of a fetus.

STATE 5A BOYS BASKETBALL: Coeur d'Alene settles down after early Lake City flurry, advances to semis for first time since 2011
“Lake City can shoot the leather off the ball, and we knew that coming in,” said Coeur d'Alene guard Logan Orchard, who has signed with NAIA Eastern Oregon University in La Grande. “They came out shooting hot. I think we underestimated them honestly, since we beat them twice … it took us (a bit) to get us locked in defensively.”

STATE 1A DIVISION I BOYS BASKETBALL: Lakeside makes big plays late, fends off Liberty Charter
“We were checking MaxPreps and saw they only beat Riverstone by six, and in the play-in game we just beat Riverstone by 46,” Lakeside senior guard Brutis SiJohn said. “So we thought … I don’t know, we probably didn’t prepare as much as we should have.”
THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: A lot of variables at QB in Seattle
Trust me, there will be players, agents and fans scratching their heads about the Seahawks’ plans from time to time. We’ve known for a long time that Schneider — now the president of football operations — is really a character.
STATE 2A BOYS BASKETBALL: Turnovers plague St. Maries in rare first-round loss
St. Maries (15-8) will play fourth seed North Fremont (17-5) today at 11 a.m. PST in a loser-out game. North Fremont lost to No. 5 West Side 59-48.
STATE BOYS BASKETBALL ROUNDUP: Bonners Ferry back in state 3A semis
Bonners Ferry faces sixth-seeded Marsh Valley in the semifinals tonight at 6.

NJCAA WRESTLING CHAMPIONSHIP: A hungry flock ... Cardinals prepared for another run at NJCAA Championships
Championship finals are scheduled for Saturday at 4 p.m. PST.

Prosecutor comments on Spirit Lake shooting
The blind Spirit Lake woman fatally shot by police after firing her own weapon last year sustained nine gunshot wounds, according to a news released published Thursday by Kootenai County Prosecuting Attorney Stan Mortensen.

Assessor to correct errors
Commissioners directed Kootenai County Assessor Béla Kovacs to correct more than 100 parcels whose property owners were undercharged on their taxes due to an assessor’s office error.

Economists wary of what's ahead
Rise of retirees 'both a blessing and a curse'
John Mitchell, who taught economics at Boise State University, and the Idaho Department of Labor's Sam Wolkenhauer offered their annual economic outlook at The Coeur d’Alene Resort.

Searching for O'Sherman
Gold Quest begins in downtown CDA
O’Sherman the Leprechaun will be hiding every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during business hours.

Acting locally, thinking globally
Girl Scouts raise $540 for Children's Village during World Thinking Day
World Thinking Day is a time when Girl Scouts place themselves in the shoes of other Girl Scouts and Girl Guides around the world and honor their counterparts in other countries. "Living in America, we're very gifted living in the area we do," Haileigh Alban, 16, of Troop 2035 Post Falls, said Tuesday. "It's nice to see other countries and see how other communities revolve around each other. It's a look into the outside world that we're not the only ones here.
Weekend TV/Radio highlights
Television, radio and streaming highlights for upcoming weekend.

I feel better when I’m dancin’
It’s hard to describe the class without using words like “booty”.

Oldies but goodies
'Assisted Living' musical to benefit Orchard Ridge opens March 22
Growing older is not something to be afraid of, but rather something to celebrate and have fun with as the years pass.
Movie times
Movie times
EDITORIAL: Is it a caucus or a carcass?
Voters will decide tomorrow in Idaho.

Dale Lee Blankenship, 53
Dale Lee Blankenship, 53, of Pinehurst, ID, passed away on February 24, 2024 at his home in Pinehurst. Dale was born on April 6th, 1970, to his father, Dennis Lee Blankenship and mother, Gayle (Blankenship)Lucas Erickson in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

We the Students...
Kellogg High School council working to adopt a constitution
A handful of students at Kellogg High School are getting a crash course in government processes and procedures to have a say in how a few things are handled at their school.
PARTIES: What primaries are all about
Words mean things. We use vocabulary to clearly communicate a thought, idea or perspective. Political parties are a type of vocabulary. When we say republican or democrat, it puts a label on a set of principles, goals and strategies designed to address pressing issues.
FEDS: Don’t forget funding strings attached
Regarding Geri Douglas’ letter published Feb. 25 “Biden — Gratitude for Essential Funding.” $1.9 trillion — wow.
CAUCUS: The end is finally here
Very soon — March 2 — Idaho Republicans will caucus to determine who will be given our state’s presidential votes.
LIBRARIES: End the book wars
Parents deserve to lead their children in reading choices and NO Government body of meddling fanatics with a political, religious or omnipotent sense of righteousness should determine those choices.
MY TURN: Republics can be raucous
Another perspective on CLN board performance

Cat Wranglers seeing success after years of struggle
The nonprofit organization has been dedicated to its cause of improving the lives of cats throughout the Silver Valley by emphasizing education and outreach for residents – which includes assisting in spay and neuter surgeries.
LETTER: Logic seems to be absent
In a recent letter, Ralph K. Ginorio bemoans environmentalists’ belief in man-made climate change. He states, “Science does not deal in truth. Truth is a matter of judgement. Facts never speak for themselves.”

Aging Shoshone County Sheriff's Office fleet to get refresh
As the Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office waits for the arrival of five vehicles to replace current patrol vehicles, an opportunity to bolster their fleet recently arose.

OPINION: Republicans are not pro-life
It’s time to consider which party is actually pro-life. Last week, House Republicans killed a Democratic-sponsored bill that would have required schools to tell a parent if their child was being bullied. All of your North Idaho Representatives voted against it.

Art reception Saturday at the JACC
Exhibits feature works of late artist William Reese
The Jacklin Arts and Cultural Center will host an art opening reception featuring the works of late artist William F. Reese from 2-4 p.m. Saturday.

OPINION: Critics and liars
Hearing some of the complaints about the upcoming caucus I am reminded of the story of the young mother and son’s day at the beach.

Wallace casino night fundraises for hospital equipment
Shoshone Medical Center Foundation is hosting a casino night fundraiser Saturday, March 16 for the Shoshone Medical Center so they can update their blood monitoring alarm system.

Shoshone County jail bookings
Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail

OPINION: Republican optimism vs. left wing radical rules
In the dynamic realm of Idaho Republican politics, conservatives confront a critical decision: to embrace President Ronald Reagan's uplifting optimism or to continue deploying the divisive strategies of an obscure leftist union leader, Saul Alinsky.

Today's Ghastly Groaner
I hired a handyman and gave him a to-do list.

Cd'A to become blues paradise in April
Resort announces 2023 festival
In a harmonious blend of soulful serenity and electrifying rhythm, The Coeur d'Alene Resort has announced its scenic grounds will transform into a blues paradise for the 13th annual Coeur d'Alene Blues Festival, to be held April 12-14.

Man arrested for vandalizing PF city vehicles
A Post Falls man was arrested Thursday for causing more than $7,000 worth of damage to Post Falls city vehicles.

Gov. Little declares March STEM Matters Month
Idaho Gov. Brad Little is declaring March STEM Matters Month, calling attention to the need for a STEM-literate workforce and spotlighting several science, technology, engineering, and math events taking place across the state over the next 31 days.