Ellington

Philadelphia plane crash causes fiery scene with multiple homes ablaze

A small plane crashed in Northeast Philadelphia 30 seconds after it took off as crews respond to a fiery scene, Pennsylvania’s governor said Friday.

A small plane has crashed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania governor says

Pennsylvania’s governor says a small plane has crashed in Philadelphia as crews respond to a fiery scene.

Thousands of Costco workers prepare to strike with midnight contract deadline looming

Thousands of Costco workers prepared to strike with a midnight deadline drawing closer Friday while the worker's union and the company negotiated.

Serbian protesters march ahead of their Danube bridge blockade as driver rams Belgrade demonstration

Along the way to Novi Sad on Friday, the students were greeted by cheering citizens who honked their car horns or came out of their homes to offer food and drinks.

White House says Trump tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China will come Saturday. No word on exemptions

The tariffs carry both political and economic risks for Trump, who is just two weeks into his second term. Many voters backed the Republican on the promise that he could tamp down inflation, but the possibility of tariffs could trigger higher prices and potentially disrupt the energy, auto, lumber and agricultural sectors.

Grim memories resurface after DNA advances lead to arrest of suspect in Hawaii teen's 1977 murder

Chun Oakland didn't know Momohara, who was 16, but the unsolved death has haunted her and other McKinley students and staff for nearly half a century. That was until last week, when police used advances in DNA technology to arrest a 66-year-old resident of a Utah nursing home.

Boats return to the Potomac River for DC plane crash recovery and investigation

Investigators have already recovered the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder of the American Airlines jetliner, which struck the chopper as the plane was coming in for a landing at the airport next to Washington. Officials are scrutinizing a range of factors in what National Transportation Safety Board Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy has called an “all-hands-on-deck event.

NIC ROUNDUP: A good Deng night for Cardinals

NIC hosts Snow basketball on Saturday; Cardinal wrestling wins in Moses Lake; Cardinal softball wins in Arizona opener

PREP ROUNDUP: Barta pushes St. Maries past Orofino

Results from Thursday's prep boys basketball, girls basketball and wrestling matchups.

ALL_STATE VOLLEYBALL: Lakeland's Munyer, Zazuetta named to 5A first team

The all-state teams were chosen by the state’s coaches, via a voting system put together by Brandon Walton of the Idaho State Journal.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: M's look like a playoff team, but are they?

Bottom line: Maybe they’ll find a trade, maybe they’ll stay quiet.

Kootenai County jail sees surge in immigration holds

The number of people booked into the Kootenai County jail on “border patrol hold” is increasing after President Donald Trump issued a slew of executive orders on immigration, while the sheriff’s office promised to continue to cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Student reporters keeping sharp eyes on their district

Student reporters keeping sharp eyes on their district

Lakeland High School's Hawkeye student news reporters are keeping sharp eyes on the Lakeland Joint School District. The staff of 18 has been busy covering local and national news, with a keen focus in Lakeland High School and the issues that affect and interest student peers. This includes Lakeland School District's supplemental levy — its failure, its future and implications that are already being considered by the very students those levy dollars support.

Spirit Lake gets ready for Winterfest

Outhouse Races set for Saturday

The lack of snow will be no issue on Saturday for the fourth annual Winterfest and popular Outhouse Races — but the racecourse will look a bit different.

Shoshone fire crew returns from California

Dietrich is the chief at Shoshone County Fire District #2, one of many departments that answered the call earlier this month when several fires broke out around Los Angeles. When he received the email from the Idaho Fire Chiefs Association, requesting any help that could be spared, Dietrich asked his crew if anyone would be interested in a 20-day excursion to California.

Vandals win at Weber State

Julius Mims, the former North Idaho College standout, had a key block with the Vandals up four with 1:30 left. Then Kolton Mitchell, the former Lake City High star who was 0 for 5 from deep to that point, rattled in a 3 at the other end for a 73-66 Idaho lead.

Post Falls Police warn of email scam

Post Falls Police Department announced in a news release they have been alerted to an email scam involving impersonation of a fictional person allegedly working at the department.

Idaho prep boys basketball poll Jan. 31, 2025

How the state's media voted this week.

Church bookkeeper from Idaho Falls convicted of tax evasion

In 2018, Fisher began working as a church administrator and bookkeeper. A co-worker reported Fisher to the Idaho Falls Police in 2022 after going through the church’s financial books and discovering Fisher was embezzling money.

MY TURN: Putting minors in harm's way

Is the CLN board banning books from our public libraries? No. Books are being challenged all over our state, but a challenge is not a book ban. A challenge occurs when a parent or guardian exercises their right of free speech and petition. A challenge triggers a review, and IF the review committee deems the content meets the legal definition of “harmful for minors,” then according to our state legislature, the book must be moved to a place in the library where it is no longer being marketed to minors. It is not banned, it is just moved to protect minors.

ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION: Enter legally or get sent home

Being in America is a privilege, not a right. We The People elected President Trump on a mandate to fix our broken system and he is delivering results. Coming across the border into this country without going through a port of entry with proper paperwork is a violation of immigration law and a criminal act. The Biden administration’s lack of enforcement and blanketed temporary asylum paired with court dates years down the road and extensive government handouts, gave a green light for millions of people to flock across our border unvetted and without consequence. That lack of enforcement has threatened the sovereignty of our nation and the safety of lawful citizens.

EDITORIAL: A stumble in the right direction

However, buried within this poorly executed policy was a kernel of wisdom worth preserving: the notion that federal spending deserves rigorous scrutiny.

Shoshone county struggles to staff jail

Shoshone County Sheriff Holly Lindsey and Undersheriff Lance Stutzke went before the county commissioners on Wednesday to discuss what they’re calling a “dire” concern.

Local author to release new paranormal romance novel Tuesday

Local author to release new paranormal romance novel Tuesday

A prolific writer, an avid reader, a teacher of children and a dabbler in magical realms, Courtney Davis pens novels she would enjoy reading. "My favorite books have always had at least a touch of romance to them," Davis, of Coeur d'Alene, told The Press in a Jan. 22 email. "I have always been drawn to books with supernatural elements as well, so many of my books have both of these elements in them. I just think the world is more interesting with magic and love is its own special kind of magic."

OPINION: Whining

The Trump victory has resulted in a seismic shift in the direction of the country. Domestic, regional, international and economic policies have taken a new direction for the better. Trump has accomplished more in the first 100 hours of his administration than other presidents accomplish in their first 100 days.

Aspire's 'Amélie' opens Feb. 7

Aspire's 'Amélie' opens Feb. 7

While times may be hard for dreamers, dreaming is all Amélie Poulain does. After surviving a tragic and isolated childhood, Amélie heads out on her own, joyfully finding her way through Paris and making friends from all walks of life: Suzanne, a trapeze artist-turned-cafe owner; Georgette, a hypochondriac tobacconist; Julian Dufayel, an artist with brittle bone disease; and many more.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

What's the difference between a bad joke and a dad joke?

Shoshone Medical Center launching Lunch and Learn series

This is the first in a series of Lunch and Learns planned for 2025. This first, on the topic of heart health, will feature guest speaker Cardiologist Dr. Aaron Notestine. The lunch is free and the event is open to the public.

Wayne Gene Fister, 83

Wayne Gene Fister, 83, of Kellogg, Idaho, passed away on January 22, 2025, in his sleep at home in Kellogg. Wayne was born on August 4, 1941, in Bremerton, Wash., to Robert Earl and Georgia Lucille Eastwood.

'He loved what he did'

K9 Murphy leaves legacy of responding to disasters

Murphy deployed multiple times, including two deployments for a disaster response in Hawaii. Murphy was 11 years old, and was a member of our team since he was 7 weeks old. He loved what he did, and we loved him too.

KOCH: Call for unity forgotten

Am I the only person to notice that Evan Koch’s Op/Eds always start with a call for unity, but within a few paragraphs he is delivering figurative kicks to the crotch of every Conservative? This happens without fail. It is apparent he regards those who disagree with him with such utter disdain that he forgets he is calling for unity.

Young guitarist earns sponsorship for Music Conservatory of Coeur d'Alene

The Music Conservatory of Coeur d’Alene has awarded an Adam Benka Memorial Guitar Student Sponsorship of just over $1,000 to up-and-coming guitarist Josiah Babak, 11, a dedicated student of the Music Conservatory.

California dogs to meet firefighters

Just days after the pups arrived at the Center, four of Northern Lakes Fire Protection District's finest returned home after weeks of assisting California firefighters

Weekend TV/Radio highlights

Television, radio and streaming highlights for upcoming weekend.

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail.

North Idaho hit with air stagnation warning

Old, young among those most at risk during stagnation advisory

People checking the weather on their mobile devices were recently hit with a new and ominous warning that simply read: Air Stagnation Advisory. But what exactly is an air stagnation advisory? What causes it and who might it affect?

BISHOP: Showed no respect for president

Mr. Ernest Warner states that the bishop of Washington asked for mercy for illegal immigrants, but showed no respect nor mercy for the president whom she had as a captive audience, not to mention his family and the millions who gave him a mandate. She guised her lecture as a sermon.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS: A double burden

I agree with Mr. Erwin’s three points about school choice, that it is the parents choice to send their children to private school, we don’t need to spend more, and that it is our own taxpayer dollars that fund public schools. The point he misses however, is that our current method of funding public schools is unwise.

MEDICAID: Idaho voters are in favor of it

A young wife and mom, married with two delightful children, became seriously ill. She was admitted to a local hospital, but her infection worsened to the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) stage. She was transferred to Kootenai Health in Coeur d’Alene as it had the medical staff and equipment to treat her. After weeks of treatment, she recovered enough to return home. Fortunately, Medicaid Expansion covered her treatments and the family did not walk away with a medical debt of six digits.

SPIRIT LAKE: The ice is very thin

Just one week ago Sunday, I was enjoying watching hundreds of ducks dipping their heads into Spirit Lake about 200 feet off my dock. It’s extremely unusual for our medium-sized lake to still be mostly unfrozen in mid-January. I opened my curtains the next morning — Inauguration Day — to discover that the lake had finally frozen over during the night, joking with a friend “it was probably the Trump effect.” I was therefore horrified to spot two husky teenage guys out there on ice skates just six days later, exactly where the ducks had been playing in open water! They were standing and talking on maybe three inches of ice at best, so I ran outside to holler a warning to them when they started to skate back to the thicker boat launch area.

JazzNIC concert Tuesday at North Idaho College

The JazzNIC Festival Concert will be at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Schuler Performing Arts Center on the NIC campus, 880 W. Garden Ave, Coeur d'Alene.

Bill to cut Idaho's tax income by $253M advances to the House

What may be the biggest ongoing cut to Idaho income taxes has advanced to the House floor.

Dahlon Hess, 53

Dahlon Mark Hess was born February 9, 1971, to David Gary Hess and Josephine Ruth (Klimosh) Hess in Indianapolis, Indiana. He grew up in Berrien Springs, Michigan and graduated from Andrews Academy in 1989.

OPINION: The fall of the Lava Ridge project

Idaho’s congressional delegation has spent years battling with the Biden administration and the Bureau of Land Management over the Lava Ridge Wind Energy Project, which would have turned a stretch of southern Idaho into a sea of ugly wind turbines.

Hayden Cinema movie times

Hayden Cinema movie times

Legals for January, 31 2025

Report says staffing in control tower was 'not normal' at time of deadly air collision

A report by the Federal Aviation Administration says staffing in the air traffic control tower was “not normal” at time of the midair collision near Washington.

Fresh lawsuit hits Oregon city at the heart of Supreme Court ruling on homeless encampments

In Grants Pass — where officials have struggled for years to address a homelessness crisis that has divided residents — the decision paved the way for the new mayor and City Council members elected in November to crack down on camping upon taking office.

U.S. economy grows solid 2.3% in October-December on eve of Trump return to White House, 2.8% in '24

Consumer spending grew at a 4.2% pace, fastest since January-March 2023 and up from 3.7% in July-September last year. But business investment tumbled as investment in equipment plunged after two straight strong quarters.

Idaho student test scores still haven’t overcome pandemic dips, but top national averages

Idaho students have demonstrated minimal academic growth in reading and math, according to the most recent results from a federal exam dubbed “The Nation’s Report Card.”

A New Zealand mountain is granted personhood, recognizing it as sacred for Māori

The law passed Thursday gives Taranaki Maunga all the rights, powers, duties, responsibilities and liabilities of a person. Its legal personality has a name: Te Kāhui Tupua, which the law views as “a living and indivisible whole." It includes Taranaki and its surrounding peaks and land, “incorporating all their physical and metaphysical elements.”

FireAid, a benefit for LA wildfire relief, is almost here. Here's how to watch and donate

FireAid will be broadcast and streamed live on Apple Music, Apple TV+, Max, iHeartRadio, KTLA+, Netflix/Tudum, Paramount+, Prime Video, the Amazon Music Channel on Twitch, SiriusXM, Spotify, SoundCloud, Veeps and YouTube. It will also be shown at select AMC Theatre locations in the U.S.

Everyone aboard an American Airlines jet that collided with an Army helicopter is feared dead

All 64 people aboard an American Airlines jet that collided with an Army helicopter were feared dead in what was likely to be the worst U.S. aviation disaster in almost a quarter century, officials said Thursday.

PREP BOYS BASKETBALL: Adams out as Cd'A boys basketball coach

Coeur d’Alene is 8-8, 2-4 in the Inland Empire League, and sitting third among the three 6A teams in the league.

NIC BASKETBALL: Behind honesty and grit, Cardinals getting going in Scenic West

NIC returns home tonight to face Utah State-Eastern, starting with the women’s game at 5 p.m., followed by the men’s game at 7.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: The way the ball is bouncing in local high school hoops

I’M GUESSING few people had the Post Falls boys leading the Inland Empire League heading into the home stretch. Probably not the Trojans themselves, either.

High school honors Jan. 30, 2025

Area schools honor their athletes

PREP ROUNDUP: NICS coach Bittner notches 400th career win

Results from Wednesday's prep boys and girls basketball, as well as wrestling matches.

Signing photos Jan. 30, 2025

Local athletes signing to play at the next level.

Bowling scores: Jan. 30, 2025

Scores from area leagues.

North Idaho firefighters return home after California deployment

Firefighters welcomed after firefighting in L.A. County

Tyler Turrell was covered in big hugs by his sons Doxon, Summit and Brixton Tuesday outside the Northern Lakes Fire Protection District station in Hayden. The family had a joyful reunion after a two-week deployment to help firefighting efforts in Los Angeles County.

Vikings, Timberwolves give back to community through charitable drives

Vikings, Timberwolves give back to community through charitable drives

The first school week back from winter break is annually dedicated to practicing cheers, decorating hallways and preparing for the Coeur d'Alene-Lake City high school Fight for the Fish spirit competition and basketball games. When the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily upended the tradition in 2020 and 2021, the Timberwolves and the Vikings came together to start a new tradition of kindness, collaboration and community service: All for Awl. "It's awesome," Coeur d'Alene High School ASB President Payton Conn said Wednesday.

Coeur d'Alene councilor says progress being made on housing

But City Councilor says there is still much work to do

Miller gave a presentation on housing issues before about 25 people at a gathering of Kootenai Strong, a new non-partisan community group.

Coeur d'Alene 10-year-old a winner of Lemonade Day holiday contest

Coeur d'Alene 10-year-old a winner of Lemonade Day holiday contest

A Coeur d'Alene 10-year-old has been recognized for her plans to make lemonade out of prickly pears. And lemons, of course.

Griz hearings canceled

One was slated for Cd'A

“We are disappointed, but not shocked, that the new administration cancelled its public hearings where people could voice their support for keeping federal grizzly bear protection in place under the Endangered Species Act.

At college/In the pros Jan. 30, 2025

News on local standouts at the next level.

Bill to create government-managed public notice website in Idaho stalls

Alfieri says it could lead to information being kept from the public

Rep. Jeff Ehlers, R-Meridian, pitched the bill as a way to modernize public notices and reduce costs that Idaho government agencies pay newspapers to publish public notices.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

What did the croissant give to his girlfriend?

Idaho bills would create new state crimes for illegal immigration

Idaho legislators introduced two bills Wednesday that would make it a state crime to be in Idaho without legal immigration status.

Michael James Upchurch, 56

Michael James Upchurch, 56, January 31, 1968 - January 18, 2025

North Idaho College announces fall 2024 dean's list

North Idaho College has announced its dean’s list for fall semester 2024. Students eligible for the list must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credits and obtain a grade point average of 3.75 or above.

MY TURN: Hayden lacks good governance

How does a small city manage unanticipated growth while ensuring quality, sustainable services for all its citizens? The city of Hayden is facing this dilemma. Growth is already straining the infrastructure, services, budget and staff. Tough decisions are confronting the mayor and City Council members about funding services for growth and funding infrastructure deficiencies.

River otter trapping closed for the season in the Panhandle Region

Trappers can call 1-800-323-4334 or visit  idfg.idaho.gov for the most up-to-date statewide information on otter harvest limits and closures.

Rathdrum man sentenced in DUI case

The charge stems from a Sept. 28 incident when three people called 911 complaining that Veltri was swerving and driving into oncoming traffic, the release said.

Coeur d'Alene man sentenced to prison for lewd conduct with minor

"Although Clark denied the allegations when confronted by officers, Clark’s DNA was later confirmed to be on victim, the release said.

Montana woman gets two years for fentanyl distribution

U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered that Bacon be placed on supervised release for three years following her prison sentence. Bacon pleaded guilty to the charge in August.

Idaho fourth, eighth graders above national average for reading, math

The latest scores from the National Assessment for Education Progress show Idaho fourth and eighth graders holding steady in this year’s assessed subjects of math and reading when compared to results from other states.

Keith Patrick Hanlon, 69

Keith Patrick Hanlon, April 4, 1955 – January 7, 2025

Coeur d’Alene Boat Expo begins today

Offers chance to win a Harris pontoon boat

The Expo runs 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily at Hagadone Marine Center, 1000 S Marina Dr, Coeur d’Alene. Free admission with pre-registration at www.cdaboatexpo.com.

Coeur d'Alene police warn of online predatory groups

As parents, please stay engaged with your children and monitor their online activities. Talk to your children about these types of incidents and report any occurrences to the police. Below is an FBI article related to these issues.

Bills look to extend wolf seasons in Montana

Aim to cut population by more than half

The two bills heard in committee to reduce wolf populations by relaxing hunting rules follow up on legislation passed in 2021 that directed the FWP commission to reduce wolf populations “to a sustainable level.”

Legals for January, 30 2025

Passenger jet with 64 aboard collides with Army helicopter while landing at Reagan Airport near DC

The Federal Aviation Administration said the midair crash occurred around 9 p.m. EST when a regional jet that had departed from Wichita, Kansas, collided with a military Blackhawk helicopter while on approach to an airport runway. It occurred in some of the most tightly controlled and monitored airspace in the world, just over three miles south of the White House and the Capitol.

Commissioner doubles down on Mountain West's commitment to remain viable after 5 teams leave in 2026

Air Force, Nevada, New Mexico, San Jose State, UNLV, Wyoming and Hawaii have executed a grant of rights agreement that binds the schools together through the conference via television rights from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2032.

Frontier makes a second bid for Spirit as budget airlines struggle

Spirit said almost immediately that it's not interested in the sale, and an attempted merger between the two airlines came to nothing in 2022, yet Frontier has not indicated it is ready to take ‘no’ for an answer.

OPINION: Private school subsidies will produce a few winners and many losers

Let’s be honest. The push to require Idaho taxpayers to subsidize private and religious schooling is not about “choice.” Experience in voucher states indicates that the great majority of those who get the subsidy money are already sending their kids to private or religious schools. That will undoubtedly be the case in Idaho. The only real question is who benefits from the money extracted from taxpayers and who gets stuck paying the bill–who wins and who loses. Just follow the money.

The Year of the Snake is underway with Lunar New Year festivities around the world

The Lunar New Year is a time to wish for good luck and prosperity in the coming year for oneself and others.

Trump White House rescinds memo freezing federal grants after widespread confusion

The White House confirmed that OMB pulled the memo Wednesday in a two sentence notice sent to agencies and departments, but said that Trump's underlying executive orders targeting federal spending in areas like diversity, equity and inclusion and climate change, remained in place.

Idaho LGBTQ+ community commemorates 10 years since 'Add the Words' hearing

Since 2015, the Idaho Legislature has implemented multiple laws targeting LGBTQ+ community

Fed hold rates steady, says job market is 'solid' while inflation 'remains somewhat elevated'

In a news conference Wednesday, Fed Chair Jerome Powell largely deflected questions about recent comments from President Trump, including one from last week, when Trump said he would lower oil prices and then “demand” lower rates. He also said he would speak with Powell about it.

PREP GIRLS BASKETBALL: Coeur d'Alene caps unbeaten IEL slate, downs Lakeland

Results from Tuesday's prep girls basketball games.

PREP ROUNDUP: Viking boys shackle Lewiston from deep

Coeur d'Alene to face 4A top-ranked Bonners Ferry on Friday at North Idaho College.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: What does Geno's future hold in Seattle

Whether you have faith in Geno or not, it’s a cinch that his future in Seattle was a major topic in conversations between coach Mike Macdonald and his new offensive coordinator, Klint Kubiak.

Youth Sports Jan. 29, 2025

Scores, results, news from local Youth Sports teams, leagues, etc.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Ben Connelly, Coeur du Christ Academy

Coeur du Christ Academy boys basketball player Ben Connelly is this week's Knudtsen Chevrolet Press Athlete of the Week.

Idaho agencies await answers amid federal funding freeze

In the wake of President Donald Trump’s order to halt federal grants and loans while the Republican administration determines whether the spending complies with a flurry of recent executive orders, federal grant recipients in North Idaho are waiting for answers about how their programs will be affected.

Fernan Lake plan gains support

If funding of a few million is found, improvements could soon follow

Fernan Lake has experienced poor water quality for decades. It flushes well from winter to spring, but little flow occurs in the summer. That leads to an increase in nitrogen and phosphorus in the lake, which causes algae blooms comprised of toxic cyanobacteria.

Report: To make ends meet, Post Falls residents need to earn $27 an hour

79% of respondents identified house prices as a major issue.

Coeur d'Alene Tribe rejects Justice Department's use of 1884 case in birthright citizenship debate

Elk v. Wilkins also argued that Tribal members are born as members of their Tribes and not as citizens of the U.S.

Elk v. Wilkins argues that Tribal members are born as members of their Tribes and not as citizens of the U.S., Coeur d’Alene Tribe’s legislative director Tyrel Stevenson explained.

Coeur d'Alene nonprofit seeking help with afterschool program

Children's nonprofit seeking help with afterschool program

A few hours of tutoring and guidance each week can make a huge difference in a young person's life. Canopy Village is seeking tutors and mentors to provide those precious hours of support during an afterschool program for youth ages 12-17 at the Canopy Village Family Support Center. "There's a lot of change happening in our community," Canopy Village CEO Vanessa Moos said Jan. 20. "The need is growing and growing and we're struggling to keep up."

Northwest Notes Jan. 29, 2025

Grove was the North Idaho College men's and women's golf coach the past 10 seasons. He left the program recently when NIC school officials chose to cut the programs, effective the end of the spring 2025 season.

Darlene Dee Prater, 79

Darlene Dee Prater, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, & friend, passed away peacefully on January 21st, 2025, at the Hospice House of North Idaho, surrounded by family and friends. Born on December 21st, 1945, in Ashland, Ore.,

MARIJUANA: If you don’t have money, don’t buy it

Regarding the Jan. 19 letter where the writer was very concerned about the financial impact of a proposed mandatory fine of $300 for marijuana possession and how many people would not be able to afford that and it would be a horrible financial burden for them.

LAKELAND WRESTLING: Accusations don’t reflect reality

We are incredibly proud of the efforts our coaches have put into building the girls wrestling program at Lakeland High School. When we started this year, we had 10 girls sign up, and while we are currently down to 8, we have seen significant progress. For the “Battle for the Paddle” competition, we only had 3 athletes eligible to compete — 4 were injured and one was ineligible. Of the 3 who were eligible, only 2 felt comfortable stepping onto the mat, as many of our athletes are in their first year of wrestling.

DePRIEST: Simple and logical solution

I just read Ed DePriest’s solution regarding school vouchers in the My Turn column in Friday, Jan. 24 edition of the Coeur d’Alene Press. His suggestion is a very simple and logical way to handle this situation. He is “right on.”

Carole Henry Tabakman, 78

It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Carole Tabakman on January 27, 2025. Born on February 11, 1946, in Pomona, Calif.,

TRUMP: Pardons damage the Thin Blue Line

This week a U.S. president made it ACCEPTABLE to brutally attack the police. No one can EVER convince me that Donald Trump is now or ever was the law and order president. I watched the attack on the Capitol with my own eyes. I watched TV for hours on multiple TV stations as police officers were beaten with flag poles, fire extinguishers, metal barriers, clubs and then repeatedly tased.

DePRIEST: A very reasonable solution

Many thanks to Ed DePriest for his well written recent opinion piece regarding the proposed use of public funds for private schools. As a staunch supporter of public school systems, the bedrock of our democracy, I welcome any suggestions that address this funding matter.

Idaho prep girls basketball media poll Jan. 29, 2025

How the state's media voted this week.

Idaho's House speaker introduces property tax-cutting bill

State government does not set or collect property tax revenue, Moyle underscored, but rising property values in the state have come with calls to help reduce the property tax burden.

Listen to your body, life is a blessing

In January 2008, I was emceeing the Post Falls Chamber's Annual Banquet at Templin's Resort. During the evening, I felt a bit clammy and muddleheaded, but finished the event.

Nancy Smith, 75

Nancy Smith of Rathdrum, Idaho, passed away at the age of 75.

Helen Meyer, 96

Helen Elizabeth Hood Meyer - September 1928 - January 2025

Fire department responds to record calls in 2024

Bond headed to voters in May

In 2024, 38% of calls for service in the city included at least one unit from Fire Station 2.

OPINION: With malice toward none; with charity for all

In the spirit of working together to build something bigger than ourselves — a more perfect and bipartisan union — the Kootenai County Democrats are reaching across the aisle.

Nominations due by March 16

Nominations due by March 16

The Idaho Department of Education is seeking nominations for the state’s top honor for teaching talent — the CapEd Credit Union Idaho Teacher of the Year.

Literary Souls: Book lovers turn to a new chapter

POST FALLS — Stephanie Seher can’t help but notice how her regular customers like to drive trends at Literary Souls, her used bookstore. Gnomes populate many of the shelves and Seher said she’s had to hide her collection of solar movement decorations since they became too big of a trend for visitors coming to the shop to bestow.

Estate planning considerations during and after divorce in Idaho

When going through a divorce in Idaho, updating your estate plan might not be at the forefront of your mind. However, failing to revise your estate planning documents during or immediately after divorce can have serious unintended consequences. Here's what you need to know about protecting your assets and wishes during this transitional period.

Bradford James Johnson, 78

Bradford James Johnson, 78, crossed over in the early morning of January 22nd at his home with his wife Doña, daughter Tammy, and OCD fur ball Ozzie by his side. Born May 1st, 1946, to Walter and Shirley Johnson in Spokane, Washington.

EDITORIAL: Recognize the Centennial Trail for the asset it is

The nonprofit North Idaho Centennial Trail Foundation does a wonderful job of managing the 35-year-old trail, planning, carrying out improvements, and raising money through grants, memberships, sponsorships and events like the Coeur d’Alene Marathon and Ales for the Trail. Executive Director Tabitha Bonner and a dedicated board are to be commended for their efforts.

Abner M. (Rick) Kama III, 90

Abner M. (Rick) Kama III, 90, passed away peacefully at home on January 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Rick was born on March 4, 1934, in Kalapana, Territory of Hawaii, to Annie Campbell Kama.

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Crystals for fatigue and exhaustion

In the aftermath of extreme physical or emotional exertion, the ensuing effects of fatigue are sure to follow. Periods of tiredness can last a few hours or, in extreme cases, much longer. And, in today's trying times with stress bombarding us from all sides — work, family, children, physical illness, finances — it may all seem overwhelming, and our bodies and minds will, eventually, come to the conclusion that they “will shut down in 5…4…3…2…”

Today's Ghastly Groaner

What do you call a substitute dog that barks a lot?

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Rethinking heartburn and reflux: The truth about stomach acid

Heartburn and acid reflux effect millions of Americans. Medications for treating acid reflux seek to neutralize stomach acid or prevent the production of it. While they are generally well tolerated, these medications don’t address the root of the problem.

Mavis Ann Fuchs, 88

Mavis Ann Fuchs, 88, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, went home to Jesus on January 22, 2025, with her loved ones by her side at Hospice of North Idaho Schneidmiller House in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Mavis was born in Hallock, Minnesota on September 29, 1936, to Clarence and Mildred Anderson. She attended Mott Lincoln High School in Mott, North Dakota.

Betty Hendricks, 93

Betty was born at home to Wiley and Lena Daily on February 17, 1931, in Leesburg, Texas. She arrived safely in Heaven on January 19, 2025.

Glen Earl Brandvold, 93

Glen was born in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, on October 16, 1931, to Verla (Elder) & Joseph Brandvold. He married Phyllis (Stengel) on December 24, 1950, and was married to the love of his life until she died after 55 years. They had two sons, William & James (deceased) & three grandchildren, Tristesse, Shane & Tyrell. Glen had three deceased siblings: Marion, Allis, & John. Even though years separated them, he was always involved in their lives & families.

Legals for January, 29 2025

Man in custody following report of assault with a firearm

A man is in custody after Kootenai County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a report of an assault with a firearm Tuesday morning.

Federal judge temporarily blocks freeze on federal grants and loans

A federal judge on Tuesday temporarily blocked a push from President Donald Trump to pause federal funding while his administration conducts an across-the-board ideological review to uproot progressive initiatives.

Job fair on Wednesday

Employers planning to attend include Ace Industrial Supply, Inland Chess Academy, Ivy Court, North Idaho College, Post Falls School District, North Idaho Dental Group, Travelers Insurance, Kootenai County and Gentle Genie Rug Care.

Legal battle is joined as Trump orders a funding freeze during a review of federal loans and grants

The White House is pausing federal grants and loans starting Tuesday as President Donald Trump's administration begins an across-the-board ideological review of its spending.

Local Native Tribes issue statements on sovereignty and protection

The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, Shoshone-Paiute Tribes and Coeur D'Alene Tribe recently issued statements following Trump's executive orders.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: We'll see soon if Zag fixes stick

It’s time to find out if this group of Zags will make the customary surge down the stretch and into the NCAA tournament. Or discover that the recent surgery was no more than rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic.

PREP BASKETBALL: Timberlake shoots past Lakeside on senior night

Results from Monday's prep girls and boys basketball games.

Eldora Brown reflects on 100 years of life, cards and cross-stitch

Eldora Brown reflects on 100 years of life, cards, and cross-stitch

Eldora Brown counts her 100 years of life through cards and cross-stitch.

Canine refugees from California wildfires touch down in Kootenai County

CAC takes in dogs from crowded Los Angeles-area shelter due to wildfires

Paws for Life K9 Rescue joined forces with Wings of Rescue to fly hundreds of adoptable dogs from shelters in the Los Angeles area to partner rescue organizations in nearby states.

Centennial Trail change in Coeur d'Alene OK'd

ITD plans to realign part of pathway as part of I-90 widening project

City Engineer Chris Bosley said ITD is looking to place a large swale in the area where the trail is located east of Atlas Way to accommodate stormwater from the I-90 widening that has reached a stage of seeking bids

VETERANS PRESS: 'I cried today'

January 15, 2025, “I cried today.”

Grace Boughton, 96

Our beloved mother, grandmother, sister and aunt, Grace LaVada Mae (Hoffman) Boughton, passed from our lives on January 23, 2025, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Grace was born December 9, 1928, to Fred and Helene Hoffman in Brush, Colorado.

Idaho lawmaker proposes increases in grocery tax credit

The bill would increase the grocery tax credit from $120 per person to $155 per person.

Pinehurst man pleads guilty in child porn case

A Pinehurst man pleaded guilty to three child pornography charges on Monday morning.

VETERANS PRESS: North Idaho Resource Directory

North Idaho Resource Directory

Mask mandate ban heads to Idaho House

A bill that would ban government entities from implementing mask mandates has been sent to the Idaho House.

Silver Valley Sports Recap: Jan. 20-26

Local teams move into conference play as winter sports moves toward the final weeks.

Fernwood woman injured in crash

A Fernwood woman is hospitalized with severe injuries after a single-vehicle crash over the weekend.

VETERANS PRESS: Explore VA benefits and health care: Resource reference guide

Health care https://www.va.gov/health-care/ Apply for VA health care, find out how to access services, and manage your health and benefits online.

FEB NIBJ: Local website developers empowered by AI

Artificial intelligence is becoming a game-changer in website development, and Victory Alliance Marketing founder Grant Richards is all for it.

VETERANS PRESS: Hey veterans did you know?

“The VA has a benefit called the non-service connected pension; it helps low-income veterans get to a prescribed income level set by law. I had a World War II couple come to my office asking for assistance in getting registered for VA Healthcare. I asked them into my office and discovered they only received between the two of them $720 a month. I asked them if I could help them with this and they smiled and said yes. A few months later they came back to the office and stated that this year they would be able to buy their grandchildren Christmas presents. The benefit increased their income by 120 percent. The sad part about this story is the couple were eligible for this benefit for over 35 years and didn’t know it.” — Darryl Heisey: Former North Idaho Service Officer

VETERANS PRESS: Patient advocates

The patient advocates at VA Spokane health care are specially trained to help you resolve issues with your care. If you’ve experienced any problems that you haven’t been able to resolve by talking with your care team, please reach out to one of our patient advocates.

Bill to add a judge in Kootenai County introduced

Idaho Supreme Court Chief Justice G. Richard Bevan in his annual State of the Judiciary address called for more judges to address a growing population and other challenges in rural districts.

Silver Valley Chamber honors community servants

It was a night of celebrating the helpers on Thursday when the Silver Valley Chamber of Commerce held its annual Volunteer Appreciation Night at Noah’s Loft.

Avista outage affects thousands in Coeur d'Alene

Outages left 2,255 Avista customers without power in Coeur d’Alene Monday morning.

VETERANS PRESS: AARP’s New Military Caregiving Guide: Essential resources for veteran caregivers

Navigate challenges and find resources, step-by-step

In the 1980s, I cared for my grandfather, C. V. Goyer, a veteran of World War I, World War II and the Korean War, and more than 20 years later, I cared for my dad, Robert Goyer, a World War II and Korean War veteran. Throughout both experiences, I often struggled to find support.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

If anyone gets a link from me about canned meat, don't open it.

VETERANS PRESS: Veteran Crisis Line: We’re here anytime, day or night – 24/7

If you are a veteran in crisis or concerned about one, connect with our caring, qualified responders for confidential help. Many of them are veterans themselves.

VETERANS PRESS: Did you know, the GI Bill covers test fees?

Do you need to earn certification or licensure for your desired career? You can use part of your GI Bill entitlement to cover the cost, up to $2,000, of certain tests and certifications to become a licensed or certified professional. Learn more about this benefit and find out what’s approved before you take any tests.

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and jail bookings for the Shoshone County jail

VETERANS PRESS: How do I start getting my veteran benefits or VA medical help?

What are my first steps?

Many deserving veterans or their families believe they may qualify for some earned veteran benefits or medical help but don’t know where or how to start the process. Below you will find three steps to get you started on the path to hope and help.

VETERANS PRESS: VA pensions are available to many

Veterans and their loved ones may face financial challenges from time to time. VA pension can provide some level of income security for economically disadvantaged wartime veterans and their survivors.

Legals for January, 28 2025

3 dead including suspect and 2 officers hurt in shooting at Indiana grocery store

Two police officers were injured in the shooting late Monday afternoon at Martin’s Super Market, Elkhart Police Department spokesperson Jessica McBrier said during a media briefing.

Idaho House asks Supreme Court to overturn gay marriage decision

Memorial now moves to Senate

Members voted 46-24 to approve House Joint Memorial 1, which if approved by the Senate, would send a letter to the nation’s high court asking it to “restore the natural definition of marriage, a union of one man and one woman.”

At Auschwitz memorial, survivors see echoes of the past in rising antisemitism

In all, the Nazi regime murdered 6 million Jews from all over Europe, annihilating two-thirds of Europe's Jews and one-third of all Jews worldwide. In 2005, the United Nations designated Jan. 27 as International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Tech stocks tank as a Chinese competitor threatens to upend the AI frenzy; Nvidia sinks nearly 17%

The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 289 points, or 0.7%, and the majority of U.S. stocks climbed. But anyone holding an S&P 500 index fund, which are found in many 401(k) accounts, felt the pain because of how influential those tech giants have become on indexes.

Snow briefly closes major interstate north of LA as needed rain douses California fires

In southern Kern County, snowy conditions late Sunday shut down the mountainous Tejon Pass section of Interstate 5, a key north-south artery for the state. It reopened Monday afternoon.

Largest earthquake in nearly a year shakes up Idaho on Monday

The U.S. Geological Survey reported a magnitude-4.2 quake at 9:32 a.m., originating in Custer County, according to the agency’s website. The reported epicenter was located 16 miles west-northwest of Clayton.

UPDATE: Power restored for Avista customers

Power outages affected 2,255 Avista customers in the Coeur d’Alene area Monday morning.

Wallace special events ordinance up for public comment

A new law aimed at special events was up for public comment during Wallace’s January City Council meeting.

Safety Fest set for Feb.19-21

Safety Fest of the Great Northwest is set to take place Feb. 19 to 21 at the NIC Workforce Training Center in Post Falls.

There's more snow near the gulf states than North Idaho

January has produced some amazing and unbelievable weather patterns across the U.S. The lower elevations of North Idaho continue to struggle for snow as only 8.4 inches have been measured at Cliff’s station in Coeur d’Alene for the season to date. According to his records, this is the lowest amount of snowfall at this time of year in recorded history.

Monday TV/Radio highlights

Television and radio highlights for Monday, Jan. 27

Rathdrum City Council to have earlier meetings

City Council will have a new start time for their bi-monthly meetings starting in February.

Hayden man arrested in connection to robbery

Man arrested at home

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offering free tax help

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is offering free tax help at five sites in North Idaho starting Feb. 1. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides IRS certified tax preparation services to taxpayers with low to moderate income and is open to taxpayers of all ages.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Why do Eskimos wash their clothes in Tide?

PREP BOYS BASKETBALL: A moment to remember for Lysne

Coeur d'Alene travels to Lewiston on Tuesday, while Post Falls visits Lake City on Friday.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: A local reason to watch NFL kickoffs today

On the rare occasions where it isn’t a touchback, you notice the kickoff returner(s). But it’s still a little weird, with the new rules, seeing the kickoff in the air, but NOBODY is moving. Anyway, pay attention to special teams today, when the Washington Commanders play at the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship (noon, KAYU).

PREP GIRLS BASKETBALL: Vikings start fast, down Trojans

Coeur d'Alene concludes regular season at home against Lakeland on Tuesday. Post Falls visits Lake City on Friday.

NIC ROUNDUP: Cardinals get technical, take down No. 18 Salt Lake women

NIC basketball returns home on Thursday to face Utah State-Eastern.

Vandals stumble in home loss to Northern Arizona

"Credit Northern Arizona, they played like the experienced team that they are,” Idaho coach Alex Pribble said on the Vandals' postgame radio show. “But we need to have consistency on defense; we have to find a way to come up with some stops.”

PREP WRESTLING: Johnson, Garten win at Othello tournament; Sandpoint girls win at Thompson Falls tourney

Area schools will compete in the North Idaho Rumble next Friday and Saturday at Coeur d'Alene High.

Woody McEvers: 'Ready to step up'

Coeur d'Alene mayor says he plans to campaign to keep office he was appointed to last year

McEvers said not only does he want to continue as mayor, but he believes he can do the job well for the city he has called home more than four decades, with more than 20 years on the City Council.

A great winter day to be outside

Cliff Harris says 'pattern of extremes' to blame for unusual weather

After a lengthy period of overcast weather, blue skies have returned to North Idaho.

Overdose support group launches in Coeur d’Alene

Amid the fentanyl crisis growing in communities across the country, including in North Idaho, a support group aims to create space for those affected by drug overdoses.

Coeur d'Alene native opens own massage therapy practice

Cd'A native opens own massage therapy practice

After 10 years of working in a chiropractic office, Carly Kauffman has struck out on her own.

HUCKLEBERRIES: Opportunities to play

Arnold (Red) Halpern’s name is on the Rock of Fame at Memorial Field. But it probably should be on something else, too: a park, a softball field, a building.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

If all the months of the calendar had a race, who would win?

Leaders and followers need each other

Part of a college application was directed to the applicant's parents. One of the questions: "Would you consider your child to be a leader or a follower?"

SCHOOL CHOICE: We already pay for schools

This is a reference to the article on Jan. 7 on Gov. Little’s State of the State speech. I am concerned about the issue of public and private schools. First I do not believe that the public should have to support private schools. That would be the decision of parents where to send their children to school.

Patrick O'Sullivan, 70

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Patrick “Paddy” O’Sullivan on January 20, 2025,

Coeur d'Alene Resort nominated for Best Waterfront Hotel

The Coeur d’Alene Resort has been nominated for Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Waterfront Hotel.

Joseph L. Bohart, 87

Joseph L. Bohart - April 26, 1937 – January 19, 2025

Else Wittrock, 91

Else (Wende) Wittrock, age 91, passed into the loving arms of our Lord Jesus Christ, surrounded by family, on Thursday, November 21st, 2024. Else was born on November 29th, 1932, in Twin Butte, Alberta, Canada.

Milestone Announcements

See who's celebrating!

Looking ahead to 2025: A message from the 2025 Chair of the Cd'A Regional Chamber

I am deeply honored to have been elected Chair for the Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber of Commerce for 2025. This opportunity to serve our vibrant business community is both humbling and exciting. As someone who has had the privilege of working closely with leaders, entrepreneurs, and organizations throughout our region, I am continually inspired by the innovative spirit and resilience that define Coeur d'Alene.

EDITORIAL: Fire department bond deserves support

If Fire Chief Tom Greif says it is necessary to have new equipment and new fire trucks and vehicles to protect homes and battle blazes, we believe him.

TRUMP: Women take a stand

I found it interesting that Pamela Hemphill, a 71-year-old retired drug and alcohol counselor from Boise, who took part in the Jan. 6 Capitol Hill riot, rejected a pardon from President Trump. Her stated reason for doing so: “It’s an insult to the Capitol police, to the rule of law, and to the nation. If I accept a pardon, I’m continuing their propaganda, their gaslighting, and all their falsehoods about January 6th.” A woman standing up for her moral core and not taking the easy way out. Kudos, Pamela.

DEI: Left is not right

My response to Shelly Williams re DEI [Diversity, Equity, Inclusion]. I respectfully disagree with her opinion. As someone with common sense, I speak as one who has lived for over 65+ years and have been in Leadership and Management positions for decades. Under my purview I have interviewed, hired and fired people. Yes we should have equality in our places of work.

After much debate, bill to prohibit DEI policies at Idaho colleges moves forward

Sen. Ben Toews, R-Coeur d’Alene, presented the proposed legislation, which was a slightly altered version of a draft he presented on Jan. 9.

MARRIAGE EQUALITY: The right to marry and live freely

As a parent of a pansexual daughter, this issue is deeply personal for me. I want my daughter and all children to grow up in a world where they are accepted, loved and free to be themselves, without fear of their rights being stripped away. House Joint Memorial 01 (HJM 01) threatens the rights of same-sex couples in Idaho, dismantling critical protections like marriage equality, tax benefits, inheritance rights, health care coverage and adoption rights. These are not abstract concepts — they are the foundation of stable, loving families.

LAW ENFORCEMENT: Too many negative headlines

It is a wonder our local law enforcement and justice system personnel are given any respect and trust with the continuous string of news articles published in The Press highlighting mistakes and illegal acts committed by them locally, regionally, nationally and worldwide. The amount of coverage about individuals and departments performing their duties of apprehending, detaining, and using lethal force on, if necessary, suspected criminals in a professional and lawful manner is miniscule in comparison. I do not include community service and outreach articles.

INAUGURAL PRAYER: Thoughtful and engaging

Reading the article of Bishop Mariann Budde at the Inaugural Prayer Service in Washington, D.C., brought to mind a quotation from the prophet Micah 6:8.

OUR GEM: Drought and snowpack update for the Idaho Panhandle

After a dry and mild fall, many were looking forward to an increase of moisture across northern Idaho to lessen the drought impacts that have persisted for the last two years. Since last fall, the National Weather Service’s (NWS) Climate Prediction Center (CPC) has been advertising wetter than normal conditions for the winter season across the Inland NW with the arrival of La Niña.

Estate planning considerations for blended families in Idaho

Blended families are very common. When you're creating an estate plan in Idaho that involves stepchildren, former spouses, and complex family dynamics, careful consideration is essential to ensure everyone's interests are protected. Here are some things to consider when looking to create a comprehensive estate plan for your blended family.

Tax-Aide seeks volunteers

“For over 20 years, we’ve assisted thousands of people in preparing and filing their tax returns,” said volunteer Duane Brown. “We could not do it without our volunteers, who make an indelible mark on the communities they help.”

Joana Ensley, 64

Joana Ensley, 64. Born 8/27/1960 went home to Jesus 01/06/2025 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Rain on the way to Southern California will aid firefighters but create a risk of toxic ash runoff

Rain on the way to parched Southern California on Saturday will aid firefighters mopping up multiple wildfires. But heavy downpours on charred hillsides could bring the threat of new troubles like toxic ash runoff.

TERHARK CUP: A good fight ... Coeur d'Alene wins 23rd straight in rivalry dual with Lake City

“It’s obviously a team sport, and you want to do the best you can for your team,” White said. “When it comes down to it, it’s only you out there. It’s a fun dual and to have a run like this, it means something to be on this team when they’ve been doing it for so long.”

THE FRONT ROW with JASON ELLIOTT: Two good guys, but are they Fame worthy?

Regardless, at some point soon, former Seattle Mariner pitcher Felix Hernandez and former Seahawks coach Pete Carroll should be in a Hall of Fame somewhere. In Seattle, Cooperstown, Canton or wherever.

PREP BASKETBALL: Connelly, Moore put on a show as Coeur du Christ outlasts Kootenai

Ben Connelly of Coeur du Christ and Chris Moore of Kootenai put on a scoring duel for the ages Friday night. Connelly, a senior, scored 51 points as the visiting Coeur du Christ Saints outscored the Kootenai Warriors 91-81 in a North Star League shootout between teams tied for the league lead. Meanwhile Moore, also a senior, poured in 53 in a losing effort.

NIC SOFTBALL: Cardinals win in return to NJCAA play

NIC is scheduled to face Northeastern and Yavapai today to conclude the tournament.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: The absurdities of Baseball Hall of Fame voting

If Jones was one of the best players of his generation, he would have had serious support right from the start. Instead, he was basically ignored. How did he become worthy of Cooperstown in that short span of time? Like I said, the best way to approach all this is to giggle.

Meeting on Fernan Lake plan to improve water quality scheduled Tuesday

Meeting on Fernan Lake plan to improve water quality scheduled Tuesday

The plan addresses short- and long-term challenges and solutions for the 400-acre lake, currently iced over, just east of Coeur d’Alene. It does not offer a definitive course of action, but rather, several options.

Coeur d'Alene High School music programs bolstered by donations

Instrument donations warm up support for Coeur d'Alene High School music programs

John Tindall was a proud tuba player and Coeur d'Alene High School musician. "John was very much a connector," John's wife, Tracey Tindall, said Wednesday. "He loved talking about the good old days. He loved talking about band." He used to replace the word "fiddle" with "tuba" when "The Devil Went Down to Georgia" played on the radio. "I can't ever not hear that now," Tracey said with a soft laugh. John was especially fond of his time playing at Coeur d'Alene High, from which he and Tracey graduated in 1984 — a golden era to be a Viking.

Executive order to pause refugee resettlement in Idaho

An executive order issued on Monday by President Donald Trump will suspend the arrival of refugees into the U.S. for at least 90 days.

Northern Lakes Garwood fire station project remains at standstill

Work on the new build for Northern Lakes Fire District Station 3 has come to a standstill.

Twin Lakes Elementary hosts 'Kids and Coding' event for Lakeland students, families

Twin Lakes Elementary hosts 'Kids and Coding' event for Lakeland students, families

Tomorrow's jobs will require the experience and expertise of today's young minds. Elementary students from across the Lakeland Joint School District enjoyed dabbling in age-appropriate robotics and tech toys Wednesday during the "Kids and Coding" Advanced Learning Program event at Twin Lakes Elementary School. Betty Kiefer Elementary kindergartner Atlas Pursley, 5, was engrossed in the world of Hexbugs, small robotic critters that vibrated along a green track on a table. “I just mowed that boy!” an animated Atlas Pursley exclaimed as one piece knocked another out of the track.

School and Senior Meals

School and Senior Meals: Jan. 27-31

University of Idaho-led program opens second round of producer applications

A University of Idaho-led program offering technical and financial assistance to Idaho farmers and ranchers who adopt climate-smart agricultural practices has opened for a second enrollment period.

FAST FIVE Cindy Mead: A familiar friendly face at the Post Falls Museum

Meet Cindy Mead, who was born in Coeur d’Alene and grew up in rural Post Falls with sisters Susie and Edie until age 10 when she and her parents, Wilbur and Florence, moved to Oregon.

Lake City High junior is Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year

A Lake City High School junior with a heart for kids has been selected as the Boys and Girls Club's 2025 Kootenai County Youth of the Year. "I was very surprised, honestly, everyone else did so great," Sienna Miller said Jan. 17.

Worth the wait: Favorite movies of 2024

Yes, I can read a calendar.

Dorothy Bartz, 91

Dorothy Bartz, 91, of Coeur d’Alene, left this earth for heaven. She was born in Chicago.

Idaho bill would end Medicaid expansion

Voters approved expansion in 2018

Idaho lawmakers are trying again to repeal Medicaid expansion, which would revoke health coverage for around 90,000 Idahoans.

Northwest Breast Imaging Center earns ACR accreditation

Northwest Breast Imaging Center at Northwest Specialty Hospital has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in mammography as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology.

MY TURN: Just say no

During this legislative session in Boise, there will be strong lobbying efforts to convince legislators to ask for an “Article V convention.”

Today's Ghastly Groaner

I spent hours trying to find what the opposite of "night" was.

McHugh named administrative district judge

Judge Barry McHugh is now the administrative district judge for Idaho’s First Judicial District, which includes the five northern counties.

Coeur d'Alene 'streamlines' child care licensing process

Those 16 and 17 can obtain a provider license, “as long as they are continuously supervised by a licensed provider and are not left alone with children.”

Legals for January, 25 2025

After 80 years, not many Auschwitz survivors are left. One man makes telling the stories his mission

Fürst, now 92, is one of a dwindling number of Holocaust survivors able to share first-person accounts of the horrors they endured, as the world marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazis’ most notorious death camp. Fürst is returning to Auschwitz for the annual occasion, his fourth trip to the camp.

Trump proposes 'getting rid of FEMA' while visiting North Carolina

President Donald Trump said he was considering “getting rid of” the Federal Emergency Management Agency during a trip to disaster zones Friday, offering the latest sign of how he is weighing sweeping changes to the nation's central organization for responding to disasters.

Target is ending its diversity goals as a strong DEI opponent occupies the White House

Discount store chain Target said Friday that it would join rival Walmart and a number of other prominent American brands in scaling back diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives that have come under attack from conservative activists and, as of this week, the White House.

Mitchell's buzzer-beater helps Vandals stun first-place Northern Colorado

“I just looked up at the clock, to see how much time I had left,” Mitchell said on the Vandals’ postgame radio show. “I knew I wasn’t passing the ball ... I just let it fly. Honestly, I didn’t think it was going in.”

PREP BOYS BASKETBALL: Lake City holds off Coeur d'Alene late

Results from Thursday's prep boys basketball games.

PREP GIRLS BASKETBALL: Coeur d'Alene locks up Lake City, IEL title

Results from Thursday's prep girls basketball games.

NIC BASKETBALL: Fast start fuels Cardinal women in romp; men fall to Colorado Northwestern for first time since 2012

Both teams return to action against Salt Lake on Saturday in Utah.

North Idaho nonprofit launches $10M capital campaign for larger space

Veteran nonprofit launches $10M capital campaign for larger space

Newby-ginnings of North Idaho isn't in need of a new beginning — it needs a new building. The Post Falls nonprofit that serves the region's veterans, active service members and Gold Star families has launched a $10 million capital campaign to find a larger location to accommodate the growing need to support its expanding client population.

'Cheers' to the North Idaho Centennial Trail

Foundation highlights growing importance of paved path

The meeting was a chance to highlight the importance and impact of the 23-mile trail that stretches from Higgens Point east of Coeur d’Alene all the way to the Idaho/Washington stateline.

Hayden Chamber celebrates the best in business

2024 proved to be a big year for the Hayden Chamber of Commerce.

New truck adds fuel to fighting food insecurity

Betty (White) the truck joins 3rd Avenue Marketplace team

POST FALLS — How do you have a party for a truck? Staff at the 3rd Avenue Marketplace know the answer.

Idaho prep boys basketball media poll Jan. 24, 2025

How the state's media voted this week.

Northwest Notes Jan. 24, 2025

Kriskova went 1-26, 0-16 in the Big Sky Conference as interim coach in 2024. She took over for Chris Gonzalez, who went 5-51 in two seasons, and resigned amid an investigation into allegations of abuse and bullying.

MOVING HISTORY FORWARD: A decade of growth brings new facilities

Last month, our story closed with NIJC students and faculty moving from City Hall to the new campus. It would be a month and a half before classes would actually commence since took workers another month to complete work on Lee Hall, the Mechanical Arts Building, and the gymnasium.

Surgeon pleads guilty to voyeurism

An orthopedic surgeon pleaded guilty to hiding a camera in a bathroom at his medical office and secretly recording employees and their children.

Coeur d'Alene Symphony Orchestra concert Saturday night at North Idaho College

Coeur d'Alene Symphony Orchestra concert Saturday night at North Idaho College

Join the Coeur d'Alene Symphony Orchestra for a night that celebrates family, music and the power of storytelling during the "Celebrating Family" concert at 7:30 p.m. Saturday in Schuler Performing Arts Center on the North Idaho College campus.

TRUMP: More than two genders

As a mother of a non-binary child, I am outraged by President Trump’s executive order enforcing the narrow and harmful belief that there are only two genders. This action blatantly disregards the existence and validity of countless individuals across this nation who do not fit into a binary box. It’s clear now — Trump’s agenda is one of exclusion, erasure and control.

Lake City Playhouse to continue selling engraved bricks as fundraiser

Lake City Playhouse to continue selling engraved bricks as fundraiser

For a reminder of how much Lake City Playhouse is loved and supported by the community, all people have to do is look beneath their feet when stepping across the nonprofit theater's newly installed paver patio.

Hayden Cinema movie times

Hayden Cinema movie times

LIBRARIES: Free people read freely

I want to thank Community Library Network trustees Rachelle Ottosen and Tom Hanley for attending the viewing of “Banned Together” at the Coeur d’Alene Library on Sunday, Jan. 19. Given the unfortunate outcomes of the board meeting the Chair and Co-chair led on Jan. 16, where over 8,000 residents will no longer have full access to the cooperative’s catalog (likely inciting a lawsuit), I hope they learned why the government shouldn’t tell citizens what they can and can’t access. In case they missed it in the film, here are six points that warrant a review.

MARIJUANA FINES: Don’t do something illegal

Response to HB 7: Fine for marijuana will create financial burden

Weekend TV/Radio highlights

Television, radio and streaming highlights for upcoming weekend.

Smelterville man arrested after domestic dispute turns violent

According to court documents, Robert Funk, 36, was arrested after deputies responded to a call from Funk’s ex-girlfriend, who was attempting to leave their shared residence after an argument allegedly escalated into a violent altercation.

Kingston-Cataldo sewer district awarded $1.4M loan for treatment facility project

Last week it was announced that the Kingston-Cataldo Sewer District had been awarded a $1.4 million loan from the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (IDEQ).

MARRIAGE EQUALITY: Do not judge

In reading the paper online I found a letter that talks about marriage. It is said that this is to be ONLY between a man and a woman. First Matthew 7 in my Bible says Judging Others.

WRESTLING: Why weren’t the girls’ scores counted?

I recently attended the Battle for the Paddle sports and social event at Sandpoint High School. I was there for the wrestling and was quite impressed with Lakeland’s boys and Sandpoint boys. Lakeland won but the two girls from each school who wrestled did not get their scores recorded.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Where do peanuts get their energy?

Idaho House freshmen and veteran Republicans divided on pay raises

There was a clear divide between some new lawmakers and veteran legislators during the 30 minutes of debate Thursday before the House voted overwhelmingly to approve a resolution allowing lawmakers to donate their salaries toward a tax relief fund.

File income tax returns starting Jan. 27

New this year, Idaho is participating in the IRS Direct File program. An estimated 210,000 Idaho taxpayers will be eligible to use the free program, a press release said.

Flag ban bills have been introduced in the Idaho Legislature

These new bills seek to limit what flags can be flown by Idaho public schools, as well as government entities.

OPINION: Winning

Jan. 20, 2025, was one of the best days for Republicans, and the country, in a long time. We now have an actual president, not a titular sock puppet that signs Executive Orders without knowing what they are about. We have a president that can converse freely and unscripted with the press while demonstrating his knowledge and command of the issues. We have a fully functional Commander in Chief.

William 'Bill' Earl Corder, 86

On January 15th, 2025, William Earl Corder, ready to be reunited with his beloved Rosemary, passed away peacefully in his Kellogg home at the age of 86. Bill was born on April 15, 1938, in Shawnee, Okla.

MY TURN: Idaho already has School Choice

Can we stop referring to it as “School Choice?” Idaho families already have school choice. If you want to attend a public school; you have that choice. If you want to attend a private school; you have that choice. If you want to attend a Christian or parochial based school; you have that choice. If you want to home school; you have that choice. Nobody is stopping anyone from attending the school of their choice.

Idaho House speaker proposes income tax cut, hints at future sales and property tax cuts

Idaho lawmakers will consider significantly reducing income taxes this year, resulting in an anticipated $253 million reduction in revenue.

Author event Saturday at Kindred and Company

Discover the stories behind the stories from 4-6 p.m. Saturday during a book signing and discussion panel at Kindred and Company, 851 E. Fourth Ave., Post Falls.

Cole Allen Tindell, 70

Cole Allen Tindell, 70, of Osburn, Idaho, passed away at his home on January 18, 2025. He was born on December 30, 1954, in Burbank, CA. He was preceded in death by his father, Clyde, and his mother, Irene (Lacey) Tindell.

EDITORIAL: The news you help create

At The Press, we pride ourselves on bringing you the stories that matter. But what many of our readers might not realize is that we don’t just sit around waiting for the news to find us — we rely on you, our community, to bring it to us.

OPINION: Public demands choice, says GOP leader

Sen. Lori Den Hartog of Meridian, the new Senate Republican leader, has identified the best reason why political leaders — from the governor on down — are backing expanded school choice (a.k.a. vouchers).

Morbeck Foundation accepting grant applications

The Frank A. Morbeck Community Foundation recently announced that they have begun accepting applications for their 2025 grant cycle.

Donald Duane Oeleis, 78

Donald Duane Oeleis, 78, of Osburn, Idaho, passed away on January 17, 2025, at the Schneidmiller Hospice House in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Don was born on October 3, 1946, in Caldwell, Idaho, a son of the late Dewey and Hazel (Hawkins) Oeleis.

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail.

Legals for January, 24 2025

Stock market today: S&P 500 climbs to a record

The Dow Jones Industrial Average piled on 408 points, or 0.9%, while the Nasdaq composite added 0.2%.

Trump orders release of JFK, RFK and MLK assassination records

Trump had promised during his reelection campaign to make public the last batches of still-classified documents surrounding President Kennedy's assassination in Dallas, which has transfixed people for decades. Trump made a similar pledge during his first term, but ultimately bent to appeals from the CIA and FBI to withhold some documents.

Alarm misdial triggers police presence at Skyway Elementary

A "School Lock Down" notification received by Coeur d'Alene Police from Skyway Elementary School on Thursday afternoon turned out to be an accidental alarm.

Purdue Pharma and owners to pay $7.4 billion in settlement to lawsuits over the toll of OxyContin

The deal, agreed to by Purdue Pharma, the Sackler family members who own the company and lawyers representing state and local governments and thousands of victims of the opioid crisis, replaces a previous settlement deal that was rejected last year by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Judge to weigh genetic evidence and search warrants in University of Idaho quadruple murder case

Kohberger's attorneys say law enforcement violated his constitutional rights when they used a process called Investigative Genetic Genealogy, or IGG, to identify possible suspects.

Teen charged in Christmas Day robbery

Police arrested a 17-year-old boy who allegedly admitted to robbing a gas station clerk at gunpoint on Christmas Day.

Aerial attack helps firefighters maintain the upper hand on a huge fire north of Los Angeles

There was no growth overnight and crews were jumping on flareups to keep the flames within containment lines, fire spokesperson Jeremy Ruiz said Thursday morning.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: An outside-the-box approach for Coeur du Christ boys basketball coach Kiefer

“I only have 90 minutes a day to get them better at basketball,” Kiefer said. “And even if I was Phil Jackson, there’s still 22 ½ hours in the day that have a much bigger impact on our season than my 90 minutes of practice. “How do you best impact the 22 ½ hours that our outside of our practice? I would say it’s through journaling, and intentional planning that I’m training the players to do.”

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: The problem with the Seahawks and no clear answer

It’s pro football’s version of a Rubik’s cube. I don’t have an answer, either.

Viking girls basketball with an off-court assist

"As the first-year head coach of the CHS girls basketball program, this event epitomized the vision I have for our team,” Stacy Boyd said. “By fostering strong bonds off the court, our players have cultivated a level of cohesion and trust that has translated into their success during game competition. I am incredibly proud of the way our players represented Coeur d'Alene High School and the positive impact they’ve made within our community.”

NIC WOMEN'S BASKETBALL: Galindo named NJCAA Player of the Week

Galindo averaged 35.5 points per game while shooting 67.5% from the field (27 of 40) and 85.7% (6 of 7) from beyond the 3-point line last week. She also pulled down four rebounds per game.

PREP ROUNDUP: Kellogg pins down Sandpoint

Results from Wednesday's prep schedule, featuring wrestling in Kellogg and girls basketball in Bonners Ferry.

Coeur d'Alene Historic Preservation Commission chair: 'An unfortunate incident'

Fire department trains on older home targeted for demolition before review hearing takes place

The City Council in November adopted a new section in the Historic Preservation Code creating a demolition review process for historic residential and commercial structures built before 1960.

Post Falls Middle School one of two local Name a Snowplow Contest winners

Post Falls Middle School one of two local Name a Snowplow Contest winners

It's big. It's bad. And if "The Berminator" could talk, each winter it would say, "I'll be back." "It's pretty sweet," Post Falls Middle School eighth grader Griffin Dooley said Wednesday after jumping out of the driver's seat of an Idaho Transportation Department snowplow. "It's awesome," he said. "It was really cool. It was comfortable. A lot of controls."

DePriest talks growth with Hayden residents

Residents had a lot of questions for councilmember Ed DePriest Wednesday night, most surrounding the growth of the city.

NIC prepares to go before accreditors

North Idaho College leaders will travel to Seattle next week for a meeting that will determine whether NIC remains accredited.

Lake City High announces new principal

Kelly to take the reins; Clifford to retire in July after 15 years at the helm

Bryan Kelly has been selected as Lake City High School’s principal for the 2025-2026 school year.

Northwest Notes Jan. 23, 2025

Eastern Washington has announced its full 12-game football schedule, with five home games at Roos Field, including an Oct. 18 home matchup with Idaho.

At college/In the pros Jan. 23, 2025

Updates on local athletes now playing at the next level.

KCRCC’s defamation lawsuit against Gookin continues

If the Kootenai County GOP’s defamation lawsuit against one of its own goes to trial, it won’t happen before October, about two years after the suit was initially filed.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

What did the hat say to the scarf?

Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour coming to Coeur d'Alene

The Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour will be shown for three nights at the Kroc Center beginning Friday night.

Trail Foundation annual meeting tonight

Public welcome to North Idaho Centennial Trail Foundation annual meeting

Competing Idaho school choice bills clear hurdles

House and Senate members introduced competing private school choice proposals on Wednesday.

After emotional hearing, Idaho committee advances resolution to overturn gay marriage

Idaho lawmakers have advanced a resolution rejecting the Supreme Court’s 2015 ruling to nationally legalize same-sex marriage.

Bowling scores: Jan. 23, 2025

Scores from area leagues.

MY TURN: To the Honorable Sens. Jim Risch and Mike Crapo

Senators are now evaluating President Trump’s nominees for federal offices. Senator Risch said many interesting things in a recent news interview that bear on that process.

Glacier to provide limited access to Many Glacier during 2025 Swiftcurrent construction

Officials with Glacier National Park have announced that due to limited parking during construction in the Swiftcurrent area, the park will restrict personal vehicle access into Many Glacier and provide a temporary shuttle service for hikers to access Many Glacier and Swiftcurrent from July 1 to September 21.

Over the Hill: Cases of mistaken identity

In Idaho, grizzly bears are listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act, meaning it is illegal to harm, harass, or kill grizzly bears, except in self-defense or the defense of others, according to Idaho Fish and Game.

Pellet gun found at Sandpoint Middle School

An unloaded airsoft pistol was discovered in a student’s backpack during a routine search at Sandpoint Middle School Wednesday morning.

South-central Idaho turkeys trapped, moved

Some want same thing done in Coeur d'Alene

The relocation site, enhanced through collaborative habitat restoration efforts, provides an ideal environment for the birds. Last spring, trees were planted at the site, supported by Groasis Waterboxxes, funded through the Idaho Fish and Game Community Challenge Grant and the NWTF Idaho State Super Fund.

CLN board advances adults-only library rooms

Plass to patrons: 'If you see something, say something'

Community Library Network board members recently moved ahead with creating adults-only rooms in CLN libraries in Kootenai County. So far, CLN has received 17 requests for relocation of material and no requests for reconsideration of materials since the harmful materials law went effect July 1, 2024, according to Library Director Martin Walters.

Legals for January, 23 2025

Evacuations ordered as new fast-moving wildfire threatens mountain homes north of Los Angeles

Evacuations were ordered on Wednesday for remote communities near a new fast-moving wildfire in mountains north of Los Angeles, as Southern California endured another round of dangerous winds ahead of possible rain over the weekend.

Teen fatally shoots a female student and himself at Antioch High School in Nashville, police say

A female student was killed and another student was wounded Wednesday in shooting in a Nashville high school cafeteria, police said.

Murdoch's UK tabloids apologize to Prince Harry and admit intruding on the late Princess Diana

News Group Newspapers acknowledged its private investigators and journalists targeted Harry with phone hacking, surveillance and misuse of private information

Coeur d'Alene fire department damages historic home before preservation committee review

Older home inadvertently used for fire department training before Historic Preservation Commission review

“Unfortunately, the property owner granted permission to the Fire Department to conduct their training activities prior to the review and even though the demolition permit had not been issued,” a fire department press release said. “The Fire Department was not aware of the demolition review meeting scheduled for the subject property.”

Youth Sports Jan. 22, 2025

Scores, news, results, photos, etc., from local youth sports leagues, teams, etc.

PREP BOYS BASKETBALL: Lewiston rallies past Lakeland in fourth quarter

Results from Tuesday's prep boys basketball games.

PREP GIRLS BASKETBALL: Simon powers Lakeland past Lewiston

Results from Tuesday's prep girls basketball games.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Connor Carver, Post Falls High School

Post Falls High School junior basketball player Connor Carver is this week's Knudtsen Chevrolet Press Athlete of the Week.

Police eye designs for new building

Captain says operations have been maintained since last year's fire

The new police building will have a sprinkler system, which its predecessor did not because when it was acquired in 2016, it wasn't required that it have a sprinkler system as it was predominately used for storage.

River City Middle School students prep care packages for cancer patients

River City Middle School students prep care packages for cancer patients

In colorful Crayola marker, "You are resilient," "Keep fighting," "Your spirit is unbreakable" and other encouraging messages were written on bright construction paper cards. Ryan Heasty's leadership students at River City Middle School paired off or grouped up Tuesday afternoon as they collaborated on notes of love and positivity that will be sent to those recovering from surgery at Cancer Care Northwest.

Corridor traffic project bumped up

Mild weather allows work to begin on Government Way

The project includes upgrading traffic signal components at 10 intersections, bringing pedestrian ramps into ADA compliance, and providing coordination between signals to improve traffic flow.

Athol shop building destroyed in fire

A large shop building was destroyed in a fire that broke out on the 600 block of S. Beaver Lake Road Tuesday morning.

Idaho prep girls basketball media poll Jan. 22, 2025

How the state's media voted this week.

Bill introduced to ban mask mandates

A new lawmaker is bringing back previous proposals that would prohibit government entities from implementing mask mandates “for the purpose of preventing or slowing the spread of contagious or infectious disease.”

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Winter time blues got you down

It's that time of year again when it's cold and gray outside and the sun is playing peek a boo. As the reality of the holidays and New Year set in, so does the Winter Time Blues for some. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also known as the ‘winter blues’, is thought to affect an estimated 10 million Americans each year. True, there is a lot happening in the outside world that is beyond our control, but winter doesn’t have to stay sad and blue. If you have trouble staying positive and motivated this time of year, you may want to check your vitamin D levels.  Since the vitamin comes from the sun, most people have some level of deficiency this time of year. The amount of Vitamin D our skin produces depends on a few factors, including the time of day, season of year, where geographically we are located, and skin pigmentation. Depending on where you live geographically, like north Idaho, Vitamin D production drastically decreases or can be completely absent during the winter months.

FIREWORKS: Fire away

To all those busy body residents who feel the need to get mad at literally a few hours of noises twice a year need to be silent. Your crying is giving me a headache. How about that?

Equal and fair are not always the same thing in an estate plan

When planning your estate, you might assume that dividing assets equally among your children or other beneficiaries is the best approach. After all, treating everyone the same seems like the fairest solution. However, experienced estate planners understand that equal division doesn't always result in fair outcomes. Let's explore why this distinction matters and how it might affect your estate planning decisions.

Dorothy 'Beth' Elizabeth Pietlicki, 72

Dorothy Elizabeth “Beth” Pietlicki, 72, passed away on January 5, 2025, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. She was a beloved mother, Nana, and friend, one who will be missed deeply by all who knew her. Beth was born on September 12, 1952, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania

OPINION: It’s high time for Idaho to obliterate obsolete and unnecessary laws

Kudos to Idaho House Speaker Mike Moyle for starting a crusade against “outdated, obsolete and unnecessary” laws. Moyle’s House Bill 14 — the “Idaho Code Cleanup Act” — would cleanse Idaho’s statute books of laws that are void, unenforceable and not in the public interest. It is high time to comb through our laws and get rid of those oldies that are no longer relevant. But we should not overlook newer laws that serve no purpose, nor legislative proposals that would just add to the clutter.

Gas prices hold steady

Cost of crude oil trending downward after hitting $80 per barrel last week

Kootenai County prices are in the $2.70s and back into the $2.80s at many stations. A few weeks ago they were in the $2.50s.

Frank Stephens Bittick, 97

Frank Stephens Bittick was born in Southern California to Frank Sr. and Julia Bittick on June 3, 1927, and went on to be with his Lord on January 6, 2025.

TAXES: Money already spent

When President elect Trump stops taxing Social Security I will donate the money I pay on 85% of my social security, currently paid to federal income tax (approximately $2,500), to the Athol food bank.

You're enough, put down the measuring stick

Earlier this month, veteran actress Demi Moore won a Golden Globe for Best Actress in The Substance, a campy horror flick. What was remarkable about her win is it’s the first award she’s ever received in a career that’s spanned over four decades.

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Hope for Trigeminal Neuralgia sufferers

Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN) is a horrible condition. It’s also known as Tic Douloureux (a French title that means “painful tic”). The pain is excruciating! In the U.S., there are 10,000-15,000 new cases per year. The risk increases with age and trauma. Fortunately for most, it is not permanent, but for many, it is.

Leopold Lookout

Leopold looks out at Higgens Point

ICF scholarships available for Kootenai County students

The Idaho Community Foundation announced Tuesday it is inviting Kootenai County students to apply for a variety of scholarship opportunities to support them as they pursue higher education.

OPINION: Peaceful, not passive

Two distinct occasions collided on Monday: Inauguration Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day. One event marked the peaceful transfer of power, and the other reminded us that peace is not passive.

Resolution introduced to allow lawmakers to donate their salaries

The House Ways and Means Committee on early Tuesday morning introduced a concurrent resolution that would allow state legislators to donate some or all of their salaries.

MARIJUANA FINES: Spend money on food instead

To Clayton Sappington: Regarding the new fine for marijuana possession that is unfair to the lower income residents.

Mandatory minimum fine for pot possession advances to Idaho Senate

Bill sponsor Rep. Bruce Skaug, R-Nampa, said police officers “need this tool to better fight marijuana use made regular in our state.”

Montana State University announces fall 2024 honor roll

Montana State University has announced its fall 2024 honor roll.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

A wise man once said: "A man who runs in front of a car gets tired."

Hayden man faces multiple felonies

A man is facing multiple felony charges after police said he sexually assaulted a woman.

EDITORIAL: The area's only warming shelter needs help

This warming center isn’t a like a hotel room. It offers the basics. Couches. TV. Table and chair. Kitchen. Restrooms. It is the only game around here when it comes to a warming shelter. There isn’t a second or third choice.

WARMING SHELTER: Draws more homeless

Despite their best intentions, this will only draw more homeless to our hometown. Please stop helping them to recruit more homeless.

VAULT DOORS: Thanks for saving them

Thank you to all the team that saved the vault doors from the Johnston Building and stored them for historic perpetuity.

SCHOOL CHOICE: A deceptive strategy

Brent Regan’s Jan. 17 opinion column claimed that American innovation is stalled by an outdated public education system. He declares that public education needs to change in order to better teach innovation. As a monopoly, however, it has no incentive to change and competition would be the best way to improve the system. “School choice will open the marketplace to new ideas, and the best ideas will percolate to the top.”

CLIMATE CHANGE: A call for action, not dismissal

The recent column dismissing 2024’s heat record reflects a misunderstanding of climate science and the urgency of addressing human-caused warming. While Earth’s climate has varied over geological timescales, today’s rapid warming, driven by greenhouse gas emissions, is unprecedented and alarming.

DOG POOP: Pick it up

Forget turkeys. Y’all, we have a pawsitively stinkier problem. It always gets worse in winter — something about snow makes people think poop doesn’t stink — but we’ve hardly had a flake, and the doo-doo is already piling up.

CAC to receive dogs from Los Angeles

Expected to arrive Sunday

Companions Animal Center, formerly Kootenai Humane Society, has been actively communicating with rescue agencies in the greater Los Angeles area. As of today, we are still in discussions with them.

Babette Banducci, 62

It is with broken hearts that we share with you the passing of our beautiful, most precious Babette Renee Banducci (Gilman) on Sunday, 12-29-2024. Babette was born at Travis AFB on 11-25-1962 to Larry Wayne Gilman & Ilona Sharon Gilman (McCrary).

Legals for January, 22 2025

Idaho bill aims to use firing squad as primary form of execution

Currently, the state’s primary method of carrying out the death penalty is lethal injection, and the firing squad is to be used if the chemicals for lethal injection cannot be obtained.

Trump's executive order gives TikTok a reprieve. What happens next?

President Donald Trump has directed his Justice Department to pause enforcement of the TikTok ban until early April, but a host of questions remain - including whether Trump has the authority to issue such an order and if TikTok’s China-based parent would be amenable to selling the popular social media platform.

Pivotal hearings set as Kohberger defense tries to nix key evidence in murder trial

In hearings this week that will likely set the table for his summer murder trial, Bryan Kohberger and his attorneys will return to the courtroom for the first time in more than two months to argue for excluding a host of evidence.

'Orchestrated attack' on Portland elections office shatters dozens of windows, police say

A group of hooded and masked people broke dozens of windows and spray painted anti-government graffiti on the Multnomah County Elections building in what Portland police called an “orchestrated attack.”

‘Once in a lifetime’ snow hits parts of the U.S. South

The National Weather Service's Lake Charles, Louisiana, office issued its first-ever blizzard warning Tuesday. The NWS' Mobile office reposted video on X of two people having a snowball fight in Orange Beach, Alabama, just steps from the Gulf of Mexico.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: My annual rant on the hypocrisy of Baseball Hall of Fame

Every year on this day, I get worked up all over again about the stupidity – worse, the hypocrisy – of MLB and its HOF voters, vested members of the Baseball Writers Association of America.

PREP BASKETBALL: Lakeside girls down Genesis Prep, move to 4-0 in Scenic Idaho Conference

Results from Monday's prep boys and girls basketball games.

Vandals comeback falls short at Montana

Idaho plays host to Northern Colorado on Thursday.

'Trump Train' celebrates Trump's inauguration in Coeur d'Alene

On President Donald Trump’s inauguration day, local fans organized a show of support after the ceremony. Terri Seymour said she watched a broadcast of the full ceremony before quickly leaving to drive around the area along with other supporters with, gathering up banners and decorations along the way to adorn their vehicles.

Fire destroys Coeur d'Alene shop

Shop leveled in CDA Fire.

Hagadone Marine Group giving away $75K pontoon

Enter drawing by attending Coeur d'Alene Boat Expo

The process to have a chance to win it is simple: Attend the Coeur d’Alene Boat Expo that runs Jan. 30 to Feb. 8 at the Hagadone Marine Center, 1000 S Marina Dr. Every person 18 and old will be entered in a drawing that will be held Feb. 15, and must be present to win.

18,000 Costco workers may strike

Has one store in Coeur d'Alene

Last week, hundreds of Costco Teamsters nationwide organized practice pickets in preparation for a potential strike.

Donna Doulder, 72

Donna Ruth Doulder, a beacon of strength and a shining example of resilience, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 12, 2025

Silver Valley Sports Recap: Jan 13-19

Wallace, Kellogg boys clash; Kellogg girls drop tough CIL battle to Priest; Mullan girls finish busy week; Wildcat Wrestlers compete in Lewiston

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and jail bookings for Shoshone County jail.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

An insurance agent went to a museum and accidentally hit a statue.

THE DIRT: Air quality monitoring

Think back to the red AQI forecast on your phone. What information was it trying to convey? The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a color-coded tool to relay air pollution threats. Starting at GREEN, for good, colors warm to MAROON, for hazardous. The AQI can represent a variety of pollutants. In North Idaho, two air pollutants are monitored—PM10 and PM2.5.

Elinor Patricia Robinson, 88

Elinor (Pat) was called to heaven on January 15, 2025, to be reunited with her husband Ray J Robinson, parents, and multiple siblings. Pat was born in Wolf Point, Montana, on September 10, 1936.

Major Idaho education groups oppose school choice legislation

The Idaho Education Association, Idaho Association of School Administrators, and Idaho School Boards Association held a press conference Monday at the Capitol to voice opposition to any proposed legislation that would allow state funds to go toward private tuition or homeschooling.

Legals for January, 21 2025

Gusty winds, extreme fire weather return to Southern California

The National Weather Service issued a warning of a “ particularly dangerous situation ” for parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties from Monday afternoon through Tuesday morning due to low humidity and damaging Santa Ana winds.

Rathdrum man dies in crash

Evidence was found at the scene to indicate that alcohol may have been involved in this crash. That evidence is part of the ongoing investigation.

Billionaires' wealth soared in 2024, anti-poverty group says as the elites prepare for another Davos

The World Economic Forum expects to host some 3,000 attendees, including business executives, academics, government officials, and civic group leaders at its annual meeting in the Alpine village of Davos.

Trump returns to power after unprecedented comeback, emboldened to reshape American institutions

Declaring that government faces a “crisis of trust," Trump said in his inaugural address that under his administration “our sovereignty will be reclaimed. Our safety will be restored. The scales of justice will be rebalanced."

Patriotic Piecers present Quilts of Valor

The Patriotic Piecers presented Quilts of Valor on Saturday at American Legion Post 143 in Post Falls.

Talk of the Town celebrates 20 years

Talk of the Town Toastmasters Club recently celebrated 20 years of helping Coeur d'Alene residents develop communication and leadership skills.

Fire tornadoes being generated from wildfires

Wildfires continue to rage across the Los Angeles region. The largest blaze, the Palisades fire, has burned approximately 24,000 acres.

Monday TV/Radio highlights

Television, radio and streaming highlights for Monday, Jan. 20.

Two local students named Classic Learning Test Scholars

Classical Christian Academy junior Benjamin Kummer and Coeur du Christ Academy sophomore Marius Kressin have been recognized as Classic Learning Test Scholars.

Shoshone County Sheriff Lindsey discusses new term

When Holly Lindsey received word that she had won the race for sheriff in the November election, her initial thoughts were of gratitude to have received the stamp of approval from the voters in Shoshone County.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

People are saying exaggerations have become an epidemic.

Corner turned ... Gonzalez shines late as Vandals knock off regional rival Eagles

Kolton Mitchell, the redshirt freshman from Lake City High, scored all 11 of his points in the first half. He also finished with five rebounds and three assists.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: More tests for the Zags in league are a good thing

Zag fans would likely rather have the usual blowouts in league — a lot less stressful to watch — but these types of games will turn out to be better for their team in the long run.

NIC BASKETBALL: Cardinal women notch road sweep in Utah

NIC's men's and women's basketball teams return to action on Thursday at Colorado Northwestern of Rangely, Colo.

PREP BASKETBALL: Bonners Ferry's Williams pours in 50 vs. Timberlake

Results from Saturday's prep boys and girls basketball games.

PREP WRESTLING: Armstrong, Tucker, Booth, Leonard win at Rocky Mountain Classic

Results from Saturday's prep wrestling tournaments and the Backwoods Brawl featuring Timberlake and Bonners Ferry.

Kootenai's County only warming center could exceed capacity as cold snap approaches

Area's only warming shelter could exceed capacity as cold snap approaches

The executive director of the nonprofit St. Vincent de Paul North Idaho is worried that the shelter, with a capacity of 25 men and women and men and has been operating “dangerously close” to capacity, may have to turn people away as the coldest conditions of winter approach.

Right to Life marches for 46th year in Coeur d'Alene

Those who marched with Right to Life of Coeur d’Alene hoped to share a message of positivity on Saturday morning.

For the love of mac and cheese

Downtown eateries had their eye on one prize in particular on Saturday afternoon.

Teriyaki takes flight at Madd Chicken

Tim Bastedo of Post Falls is a jack of all trades when it comes to jobs.

HUCKLEBERRIES: 'We know what overkill looks like'

Wallace works hard, plays hard and minds its own business. The same can’t be said, according to the locals, of the federal government, which invaded the Silver Valley mining town on three occasions over the course of a century.

HISTORIC PRESERVATION: It’s a team effort

The Johnston Building at Second and Sherman has just been demolished, but two important pieces of its long history survive.

DEI BAN: A step backward in equality

Idaho’s DEI ban is a devastating blow to fairness and inclusivity. As someone with tribal heritage, I find this decision heartbreaking and infuriating. Senator Ben Toews of Coeur d’Alene claims the initiative will “promote free speech” while shutting down centers supporting women and minority students. But I have to ask, Mr. Toews: what is your real goal?

Build_ fosters startup culture in Kootenai County

Long before Nick Smoot’s online platform Build_ came to fruition, the Coeur d’Alene native kicked around the idea of creating a new kind of innovation collective.

POST FALLS: Council should welcome those who served

A government for the people by the people should be representative of those people, should it not? It seems that this is not the case according to some of our Post Falls City officials. Instead, the current vacant city council seat can only be filled if a certain set of requirements is met. These newfound requirements are well beyond that required by state law and seem to come directly from these elected officials (not those who they represent). If you served on a commission or previously ran in an election and did not receive more votes than your opponent, then you are barred from applying to this public position. Could this mean that anyone whoever ran for a position but didn’t win be barred in the future?

Get yourself connected: The writing's on the wall

Charlie Brown's friend Linus made the mistake of confessing to his big sister, Lucy, that he wanted to be a doctor when he grew up. Lucy was astounded at her brother's declaration and said, "You, a doctor! That's a laugh! You could never be a doctor! You know why? Because you don't love humankind!"

JUST WATCH: Confirmation hearings show divide

I watched part of the Senate hearings on Pam Bondi. Although I really know very little of her other than being Florida’s last attorney general, she was very impressive during her Senate confirmation hearings.

EDITORIAL: A bond that keeps us strong

Born from the lessons of Hurricane Andrew in 1992, EMAC emerged when states realized that natural disasters don't respect geographical borders, and neither should our response to them.

Clayton 'Bub' St. Peter, 92

Clayton “Bub” St. Peter, 92, passed away on December 15, 2024. Born on July 14, 1932, in Bismarck, North Dakota, to the late Alma Lecuyer and Joseph D. St. Peter.

HB 7: Fine for marijuana will create financial burden

Regarding a portion of HB 7, specifically the changes to penalties for possession of 3 oz. or less of marijuana. This bill classifies possession of 3 oz. or less of marijuana as a misdemeanor, with a mandatory fine of no less than $300 plus other penalties. I believe this introduces significant issues that could have a detrimental impact on Idaho citizens, particularly in light of the current economic climate.

Thank you Coeur d'Alene: A message from our outgoing Cd'A Regional Chamber Chair

As 2024 draws to a close, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for your unwavering leadership, support, and dedication to our mission. Together, we have accomplished so much this year, and your contributions have been the driving force behind our many successes.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

My wife told me to put ketchup on the shopping list.

Rathdrum Police Department seeking help in locating missing person

The Rathdrum Police Department is seeking the public's help in locating a missing person.

With a US ban on TikTok hours away, Trump says he 'most likely' will grant an extension

The clock is ticking toward a U.S. ban on TikTok, but users seeking clarity on what that will mean did not get much Saturday from the company that runs the popular video-sharing platform or the tech giants that offer the TikTok app in their digital marketplaces.

Extreme cold forecast for much of US in coming days

Another blast of winter weather is expected in parts of the U.S. in the coming days, including bone-chilling wind in the Northern Plains and unusual snow and ice in the Gulf Coast area.

EWU hires NIC men's, women's golf coach Grove

Eastern Washington reviving men's golf program in 2025-26

Grove, a Coeur d'Alene High graduate who played at Idaho, was named Northwest Athletic Conference Coach of the Year seven times.

PREP BOYS BASKETBALL: Sandpoint trips Lakeland at buzzer

After the game, Lakeland was awarded the Paddle as the winner of the spirit competition.

THE FRONT ROW with JASON ELLIOTT: Getting their best, and a good show to boot

There’s something to be said for a good rivalry game. The gym is packed.

PREP GIRLS BASKETBALL: Lakeland topples Sandpoint again

Lakeland, which beat Sandpoint 60-50 at home on Jan. 7, plays host to Lewiston on Tuesday.

NIC WRESTLING: Cardinals fall to No. 3 Clackamas

NIC hosts NAIA University of Providence next Saturday at 6 p.m.

PREP WRESTLING: Lakeland paddles Sandpoint in spirit dual

Coeur d'Alene second at Rocky Mountain Classic, Post Falls leading Tiger-Grizz after first day.

Coeur d'Alene Fire Department bond survey underway

Gauges support, provides look at possible cost to taxpayers

Grief they are hoping for at least 400 responses over the next three weeks. A presentation of the results is scheduled to be presented to the City Council on Feb. 18.

Rabbit sculpture 'Harvey' hopping away from downtown Coeur d'Alene

Rabbit sculpture 'Harvey' hopping away to new Arizona home

Rabbit season is over for the Art Spirit Gallery. The popular metal bunny sculpture "Harvey" that has watched over downtown Coeur d'Alene since 2015 from its post at the south end of a Diamond parking lot adjacent to the gallery is hopping away to its new home in Arizona this weekend. It is expected to be installed at the home of John and Julie Vanderwey midweek. "It's going into a very unique situation," John Vanderwey said Friday in a phone call with The Press. "I love it. It’s so fun. We’re building our whole backyard around it."

Cold, dry weather expected to hold in North Idaho

North Idahoans may want to hunker down as cold conditions hold through next week.

Coeur d'Alene native works on recently launched lunar lander

Chris Major has long been reaching for the stars, and it paid off this week with the launch of Firefly Aerospace’s Blue Ghost Mission 1.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Perhaps that self-help book could help Zags, too

The Zags seem to become paralyzed in all those tight games, missing open shots and routine defensive assignments — and they’ve lost them all. Madness. So, how do you handle it?

All aboard! Brunner Road railway crossing project funded

Lakes Highway District recently announced a $14.5 million award from USDOT Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to eliminate a railway crossing on Brunner Road. The BNSF Railroad crossing project will construct a roundabout, the second alternative outlined in the project pitch to FRA. Brunner Road is a rural east/west major collector road.

Cheers to Timberlake Junior Cheer

Spirit Lake's Timberlake Junior Cheer won big in their first competition of the season last weekend, taking home first place for their Sideline Routine and 2nd place for their Pom Routine during the Wolves Winter Cheer Challenge.

Unsung movie performances of 2024

A trophy isn’t everything.

Idaho's budget writers approve $12.6 billion in baseline budgets

Idaho’s budget writers have swiftly passed maintenance budgets for all state agencies and programs, representing all the ongoing expenditures approved by past Legislatures.

Mary Martin, 83

Mary Florence (Bridge) Martin 83, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2025, in Glendale, Ariz. She was born March 13, 1941, to Dr. Walter and Frances Bridge and she grew up in Spokane, Wash.

Everett Headrick, 94

Long-time Hayden resident, Everett L. Headrick, 94, passed away on December 29, 2024, at the Life Care Center of Coeur d’Alene. Born to Frank and Clara Headrick in Moscow, Idaho, in December 1930, he was the oldest brother to Donald and Rodney.

Here's hoping 'Old Notre Dame will win over all'

At the center of it all, the ringleader, the master of ceremonies, was my father. He wanted people there. The more, the merrier. He wasn’t passionate about Notre Dame.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Where's the warmest place in the house?

Idaho Senate rejects legislator pay raises

The Idaho Senate voted to reject pay raises for themselves that were previously set by a citizen’s committee.

North Idaho man's musical message of hope, unity translates to listeners around the world

Mike Baker's musical message of hope, unity translates to listeners around the world

Thirty-one languages and counting, a diverse expanse of instrumental sounds, one unifying message: "The Light We Share."

FAST FIVE Capt. Jon Totten's world of water and wellness

Meet Capt. Jon Totten, founder of Dogsmile Adventures.

Janet 'Jan' Jeffries, 90

Janet, affectionately known as “Jan,” passed away on January 1, 2025, in Gig Harbor, Washington, at the age of 90 after a hard-fought cancer battle. Janet Urbanek was born on Sept 27, 1934, in the Wolf Creek area of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

The Exhausted Dad: Resistance to holiday takedowns

The painted pumpkins on the porch made it until 2025.

School and Senior Meals

School and Senior Meals: Jan. 20-24

Charlene M. Boyd

Charlene M. Boyd passed away on December 8, 2024. She was born in Wallace, Idaho, to Mary and Wylie Gardner.

'Hearts for Homes' to benefit Habitat for Humanity

Proceeds from the dinner and auction will support Habitat’s efforts to provide affordable homes and critical home repairs for low-income families throughout the county.

Legals for January, 18 2025

Idaho Republican reintroduces bill to end state prohibition on private, armed militias

The latest proposal to repeal Idaho’s longstanding ban on armed private militias received approval for future consideration on Friday.

Supreme Court backs law banning TikTok if it's not sold by its Chinese parent company

The Supreme Court on Friday unanimously upheld the federal law banning TikTok beginning Sunday unless it's sold by its China-based parent company, holding that the risk to national security posed by its ties to China overcomes concerns about limiting speech by the app or its 170 million users in the United States.

Trump's swearing-in will move inside the Capitol Rotunda because of intense cold weather

President-elect Donald Trump will take the oath of office from inside the Capitol Rotunda on Monday due to forecasts of intense cold weather.

PREP ROUNDUP: Priest River handles Kellogg in Central Idaho League tilt

Thursday's prep girls basketball, boys basketball and prep wrestling results.

NIC BASKETBALL: Galindo pours in 40 as Cardinal women net big road win

NIC resumes road trip at Utah State-Eastern of Price, Utah on Saturday.

Hayden council approves increased impact fees

Developers will be seeing higher impact fees after City Council voted unanimously to approve an increase earlier this week.

Fifth graders honor Martin Luther King Jr. at 38th annual human rights celebration

Fifth graders honor Martin Luther King Jr. at 38th annual human rights celebration

One small action can make a big difference in someone's life. "Give a little compliment to someone each day and the world will get better with each kind word," Bryan Elementary School's Adeline Thorhaug said Thursday morning as she read her essay on the Schuler Performing Arts Center stage. "You should be the reason someone smiles today," she said. "If everyone did this, we could achieve what Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. set out to do."

Plew picked to fill Post Falls council seat

Mayor Ron Jacobson and city councilors interviewed Aaron Plew, Patrick O'Halloran, Annette Nolting, and Julie Hensley in a conference room at city hall, eventually unanimously confirming Aaron Plew to fill council seat two Thursday after the name was put forth by Jacobson. A full room of residents were present to observe the interviews and additional chairs had to be added as additional constituents arrived.

Northwest Notes Jan. 17, 2025

Strawn, a four-year varsity member of the Timberwolves and a 1,000-point career scorer, was one of 234 boys nominated for the West team.

Post Falls Bridal Tour turns 10

Wedding vendors will be at three locations on Saturday

In 2010, Vickie and Larry Tanner tied the knot and got married on a crisp fall day in November at the Trailhead in Post Falls. As the ceremony progressed, snow began to fall, framing their ceremony with soft fluffy flakes. Vickie Tanner said she and her husband had reconnected three decades after high school and stumbled onto the venue as an option through her work as a city employee for Post Falls Parks and Recreation Department.

Special Assistant United States Attorney Office opens branch in North Idaho

History was made on Tuesday afternoon when the Shoshone County Commissioners approved two agreements that will create the first Special Assistant United States Attorney (SAUSA) Office in North Idaho.

Weekend TV/Radio highlights

Television, radio and streaming highlights for upcoming weekend.

Idaho prep boys basketball media poll Jan. 17, 2025

How the state's media voted this week.

Rape sentencing set for February

A St. Maries man who pleaded guilty to raping a teen girl and faces similar charges in another county will be sentenced next month.

Barbara Evans Chambers, 76

Barbara Evans Chambers the “Original Precious”, 76, of Las Vegas, Nev., and former long-time Kellogg, Idaho, resident, passed away on January 3, 2025, at Summerlin in Las Vegas, Nev. Barbara was born on March 4, 1948, in Pitcher, Okla., the daughter of the late Mack Evans and Evadna (McBrien) Evans.

FIREWORKS: Legal ones are not the problem

In response to reading of councilor Wood’s solution to the out-of-control fireworks problem, I can only say...you have got to be kidding me. Setting up zones for people to use “safe and sane” (legal) fireworks has got to be a joke.

OPINION: The right to choose

Now more than ever we need to innovate to survive. The Artificial Intelligence Pandora’s Box has been opened. We will have practical humanoid robots by the end of the decade. High minimum wages are incentivizing automation in the service and manufacturing sectors. The number of instances where people can work remotely has skyrocketed. The world’s economy is rapidly being transformed. The only constant, it seems, is change.

EDITORIAL: Coeur d'Alene a place that values its past

And that’s why we are delighted to see that two magnificent vault doors were saved from the Johnston Building in downtown Coeur d’Alene that is being demolished this week to make way for Sherman Tower, a 15-story project by the Hagadone Corp.

Bed bug outbreak prompts groups to donate to pest control

Local philanthropic group Silver Valley CARES received $2,000 in donations earlier this week to aid those battling pests in their homes.

FIREWORKS: Respect and Compassion for others — Bottom Line!

In regard to both Mr. Bell’s and Mr. Sanner’s letters re: Fireworks, I am one of those individuals affected by PTSD. I abhor the noise and craziness the ‘sub humans’ partake in throughout the year in Kootenai County.

MY TURN: Climate change: Important facts missing

Earth breaks yearly heat record… (Jan. 11, page C7). This article is missing many important facts because it is designed to scare an uninformed public. For example, ("Earth had its hottest year ever in 2024…"). False. Our record keeping does not go back more than 200 years, which is about .000006% of the age of our planet. This small sample has no meaning in the larger picture. (Try making an accurate weather forecast by looking out the window for 1/2 second each day.) The geological record is much longer, reaching back billions of years. It shows much larger planetary variations. It was about 30 degrees warmer during the age of the dinosaurs. Earth has been cooling for the last 80 million years. There were several ice free periods and some Iceball Earth episodes (google Iceball Earth).

TRUMP: Morbid sense of humor?

If Donald Trump was just kidding about buying Greenland, taking back the Panama Canal, renaming the Gulf of Mexico, making Canada another state, then he has a morbid sense of humor.

Movers & Shakers

Institute for Organization Management, the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is pleased to announce that Christina Petit of the Post Falls Chamber of Commerce, has graduated from the program and has received the recognition of IOM.

Hayden barista wins Kaffee Meister's inaugural Latte Art Throwdown

Hayden barista wins Kaffee Meister's inaugural Latte Art Throwdown

The fancy foam was flying last Friday night as Kaffee Meister in Hayden held its inaugural Latte Art Throwdown.

Hayden Cinema movie times

Hayden Cinema movie times

Bluegrass Jam at the JACC

Enjoy free Bluegrass Jams at the Jacklin Arts and Cultural Center from 5:30-7:30 p.m. every second and fourth Wednesday of the month.

Blue Room Improv show tonight at Lake City High

Blue Room Improv show tonight at Lake City High

Uncovering dark family secrets, impromptu informercials and breaking out into song are all part of the unpredictable antics of the Blue Room Improv players.

VFW Patriot Pen, Voice of Democracy contests announce winners

Kellogg High School students expressed their thoughts on the theme, "My voice in America's democracy" and the question, "Is America today the forefather's vision?" as part of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Voice of Democracy competition.

Andrew 'Andy' Osborn, 63

Andrew “Andy” Osborn passed away peacefully at home on December 11, 2024, surrounded by his family, after a long journey of living with ALS. His gentle, kind, fun-loving spirit will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Born June 1, 1961, in Dillon, Mont., to Alva “Ozzie” and Kris Osborn

Today's Ghastly Groaner

The one thing I can't deal with

Man gets probation for delivering, possessing meth

A man who was acquitted of causing a woman’s overdose death will spend time on probation for drug-related charges.

TURKEYS: Population has skyrocketed

Christy Wood was totally correct in bringing up before the city council the issue of wild turkeys in the Fairway Forest area. I have lived in that area for 45 years, the first 40 turkey free.

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and jail bookings for Shoshone County jail.

FIREWORKS: Worse than before

Concerning Chris Willoughby Sr.’s letter published Jan. 15. I grew up in the Spokane Valley and we had SOME fireworks going off in the ’60s and ’70s but nothing like you see today.

OPINION: School choice plan called a ‘government handout’

The fight over school vouchers might be the leading issue going into this legislative session, but the term “vouchers” will have selective use.

Legals for January, 17 2025

Biden won't enforce TikTok ban, official says, leaving fate of app to Trump

President Joe Biden won't enforce a ban on the social media app TikTok that is set to take effect a day before he leaves office on Monday, a U.S. official said Thursday, leaving its fate in the hands of President-elect Donald Trump.

Standoff in South Africa ends with 87 miners dead and anger over police's 'smoke them out' tactics

South African authorities have been fiercely criticized for cutting off food and supplies to the miners in the Buffelsfontein Gold Mine last year. That tactic to “smoke them out,” as described by a prominent Cabinet minister, was condemned by one of South Africa's biggest trade unions.

A judge in Texas rules 3 other states can challenge access to abortion pill mifepristone nationwide

The states of Idaho, Kansas and Missouri made the request in U.S. District Court in Amarillo, Texas. The only judge based there is Matthew Kacsmaryk, a nominee of former President Donald Trump who previously ruled in favor of a challenge to the pill's approval.

Former newspaper editor sentenced for paying girls to send him explicit videos

Smith pleaded guilty in November to one count of exploitation of a minor and three counts of first-degree possession of child pornography as part of a plea agreement, KHQ-TV reported at the time.

Threat from toxic fire debris will prevent many LA residents from checking on damaged homes

Homeowners learned Thursday that it could be a week or more before they will be allowed to check on their fire-damaged properties while officials assess the threat of potentially toxic ash and debris left by the blazes that have blackened neighborhoods across the LA area.

David Lynch, visionary filmmaker behind 'Twin Peaks' and 'Mulholland Drive,' dies at 78

David Lynch, the filmmaker celebrated for his uniquely dark vision in such movies as “Blue Velvet” and “Mulholland Drive” and the TV series “Twin Peaks,” has died just days before his 79th birthday.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: Opportunity is there for Vandal basketball on Saturday

“It’s time for this program to start turning the corner,” Pribble said. “If we can get a win against Eastern Washington at home, against a rival, in a great atmosphere, it shows we’re taking steps in the right direction.”

PREP ROUNDUP: Vikings take care of Sandpoint; Trojans roll

Results from Wednesday's prep wrestling and prep girls basketball games.

AT COLLEGE: Jan. 16, 2025

Updates on area athletes at the next level.

High school honors Jan. 16, 2025

Area schools honor their athletes.

Coeur d'Alene police chief: Illegal fireworks hard to stop

Cd'A officers issued three citations, 14 warnings for fireworks violations last year

The loud explosions from aerial fireworks on and around the July 4 and Jan. 1 holidays has led some residents to call for the city to do something. They have said fireworks frighten pets, create fire hazards, affect military members with PTSD and in general disturb the peace.

Birders brave warm winter weather during Coeur d'Alene's monthly Mica Bay Survey

Coeur d'Alene Audubon offers educational, social activities for all levels of birders

Deep croaks were heard as a raven soared south near a turnout on Mica Creek, then circled around to fly north. It was the first bird of the day for those on the Coeur d'Alene Audubon's January Mica Bay Survey, and the first eBird of the year for one participant keeping track on his Cornell Lab phone app. "He flies like he's rowing a boat," Coeur d'Alene Audubon President Ted Smith observed Tuesday morning as the large black corvid sailed overhead.

In Coeur d'Alene, 'everybody loves mac and cheese'

Downtown festival sells out again as demand for tickets heats up

The Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association Mac & Cheese Festival, in its seventh year, is noon to 6 p.m. Saturday. It will feature more than 20 locally renowned chefs at tasting locations at downtown businesses.

Lakeland to run $7.52M levy in May

Majority wins in a split decision that almost didn't happen

The Lakeland Joint School District will run a $7.52 million levy election in May.

Northwest Notes Jan. 16, 2025

Bogar joins the Warriors after serving as the head assistant coach at Treasure Valley Community College in Ontario, Ore., and head coach at Rocky Mountain High in Meridian. The Coeur d'Alene native competed in cross country and track and field at Lake City, then played club volleyball at Boise State, graduating in 2018 with a degree in psychology and minor in sociology.

Bill proposing minimum fine for marijuana heads to Idaho House

The House Judiciary and Rules Committee on Wednesday voted 10-4 to send HB 7 to the full House for a full vote, after another motion to kill the bill failed narrowly in a 6-8 vote.

Glenn Winebarger, 89

Glenn Winebarger, father, grandfather and great-grandfather passed from this life on January 9, 2025, in Lewiston.

Movers & Shakers

STRATA, a leading innovator in transportation, energy, mining, municipal, and commercial development sectors, is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Arneson, P.E., (Mike) as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), effective Jan. 13.

Beating the winter blues

Locals find light among the darkness of winter

Winter weather is here to stay for a while longer, but the winter blues don’t have to be.

Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office moves to Hayden

The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office will conduct most operations out of a newly-renovated facility in Hayden, dubbed Kootenai North.

The goose old days

A gaggle of Canada geese gather at Independence Point on a sunny Tuesday morning as blue skies and snow-covered mountains offer a beautiful backdrop

The impact of wildfires

Can affect big game for decades, negatively and positively, and here's why

“Fire resets the ecological clock,” Fish and Game’s Salmon Region Wildlife Biologist Sean Schroff said. “Idaho is a diverse state, and the timetable at which a site recovers is dependent on the habitat type, and that timetable also changes as you travel across the state.”

Bowling scores: Jan. 16, 2025

Scores from area leagues.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

I got pulled over driving home from work last night.

Coeur d'Alene man gets federal prison for $2.5 million wire fraud scheme

A man will spend almost four years in federal prison for a multimillion-dollar accounts receivable factoring scheme.

Upcoming trapper, wolf trapper, hunter education classes in the Panhandle Region

Classes fill quickly, so register now before it’s too late

With the holidays and hunting seasons now over, there’s no better time to get enrolled in a class and be ready for hunting and trapping seasons in 2025. Below is a list of classes currently open for registration.

ECHO Idaho offers classroom behavioral health, autism support training

ECHO Idaho’s K-12 education program is offering educators and clinicians the ability to be trained in behavioral health in the classroom and supporting students with autism this year. During its first year of digital offerings in 2024, a total of 217 different organizations participated in the training program across 37 counties in Idaho to create a digital professional learning environment at no cost to professionals within an industry.

Idaho's chief justice asks for pay increases, new judge in Kootenai County

Idaho Supreme Court Chief Justice G. Richard Bevan on Wednesday highlighted the experiences of rural judges, who are covering increasingly large caseloads and traveling across wide swaths of land.

Hayden Lake district lands funds

The Hayden Lake Watershed Improvement District has been awarded $356,500 to identify sources of nutrients that promote harmful algal blooms in Hayden Lake, according to a press release from the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality.

Post Falls council sets strict rules for filling vacant seats

Rules exclude past candidates

City councilors communicated very specific stipulations to Mayor Ron Jacobson about the kind of candidates desired wanted to fill Josh Walker’s council seat.

Legals for January, 16 2025

Idaho governor orders flags to be raised full staff on Inauguration Day

Idaho Gov. Brad Little has joined other Republican leaders by ordering U.S. and Idaho flags be raised to full staff on Monday, Jan. 20 to recognize the inauguration of incoming President Donald Trump.

Idaho’s largest health system sues AG, seeking emergency abortion protections

Saying Trump administration may drop Biden administration’s lawsuit challenging Idaho’s abortion ban, St. Luke’s files its own lawsuit

Middle East latest: Israel and Hamas agree to a Gaza ceasefire, mediators say

Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza began on Oct. 7, 2023, when militants stormed into southern Israel and killed about 1,200 people and abducted around 250. A third of the 100 hostages still held in Gaza are believed to be dead.

Albertsons lays off corporate employees across the company. Here’s what we know

Albertsons is laying off corporate and division support employees around the country, a spokesperson for the company told the Idaho Statesman on Wednesday.

Firefighters need better weather to fight California's flames. When will they get relief?

The level of humidity affects moisture in soil, trees and other organic matter. When potential fuels are more moist, then fire danger is reduced because they're less combustible. Forecasters look out for relative humidity — or how much water vapor the air is holding. Fire warnings are issued when relative humidity is 15% or lower, combined with higher wind speeds.

FDA bans red dye No. 3 from foods

The dye is known as erythrosine, FD&C Red No. 3 or Red 3. The ban removes it from the list of approved color additives in foods, dietary supplements and oral medicines, such as cough syrups. More than three decades ago, the FDA declined to authorize use of Red 3 in cosmetics and externally applied drugs because a study showed it caused cancer when eaten by rats.

PREP BOYS BASKETBALL: Preparation puts Post Falls out front ... Trojans down Lake City to move into first in IEL standings

“I was super proud of our guys to be able to prepare for a team like Lake City,” Post Falls coach Mike McLean said. “They can score in several different ways, and they’ve got posts that can score and always have constant movement. They’ve got a really challenging style and I couldn’t be prouder of how the guys executed.”

PREP GIRLS BASKETBALL: Allert steps in as Trojans notch IEL victory

Coeur d'Alene, Lakeland, Wallace also victorious on Tuesday.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Cougs could contend, but they'll need some cash first

Wazzu’s new football coach promised that he’d get good players, that they’d play a physical game, and he guaranteed the REAL bottom line … they would win. In fact, Rogers stated flat-out that Washington State should be in the national title picture.

Youth Sports Jan. 15, 2025

Scores, news, etc., from local youth sports teams, leagues, etc.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Brookeslee Colvin, Coeur d'Alene High School

Coeur d'Alene High School sophomore basketball player Brookeslee Colvin is this week's Knudtsen Chevrolet Press Athlete of the Week.

Lakeland leaders to recommend $7.52 million levy

Special meeting tonight at Timberlake High

A $7.52 million levy election to run May 20 is expected to be recommended to the Lakeland School Board by district leadership during a special meeting at 5:30 tonight at Timberlake High School, 5973 W. Highway 54, Spirit Lake.

Crowds gather to watch the demolition of Coeur d'Alene's Johnston Building

Crowds gather to watch the demolition of Coeur d'Alene's Johnston Building

People stopped by throughout the day to watch the first early stages of bringing down the 1905 Johnston Building for the coming of the 15-story Sherman Tower, expected to be completed in 2027, by the Hagadone Corp.

Chamber CEO: Membership provides 'unparalleled access' to businesses

Linda Coppess highlights organization's value

In the chamber’s first “Breakfast Connection,” formerly Upbeat Breakfast, Coppess outlined ways for members to “unlock the full potential” of their membership in a 40-minute talk before about 100 people at The Coeur d’Alene Resort.

Lakeland, Sandpoint high schools' spirit, sports competitions are Friday

Lakeland, Sandpoint high schools' spirit, sports competitions are Friday

If Lakeland High School wins this year’s Battle for the Paddle against Sandpoint High School, it will be the sixth consecutive victory for the Hawks.

Idaho football: Dunbar, Finau round out coaching staff hires

Dunbar will coach running backs and Finau is set to coach the defensive line.

Give Kids a Smile Day set for Feb. 7

Avondale Dental will provide free dental care to children from families in need next month during Give Kids a Smile Day.

EDITORIAL: Experience should count when choosing a city councilor

With government, as with almost anything, experience counts. A person who has previously served on a commission or committee would be a stronger candidate than someone who has never spent one minute serving the city.

Idaho prep girls basketball media poll Jan. 15, 2025

How the state's media voted this week.

OPINION: Presidents Day in Coeur d'Alene will be noteworthy

One month from now, we will celebrate Presidents Day. For one day of the year, we remember outstanding American presidents and their most important contributions to American history.

ROSDAHL: He is missed

Bring him back. Nils Rosdahl was the pulse of the business community, and his Sunday column, Business Bits, was a treasure chest of information that was so helpful for all of his readers.

COEUR d’ALENE: Little San Diego

Welcome to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Visit on Vacation and leave on probation. Many call it, “little San Diego;” with Texxxass style government.

Moscow man gets federal prison for distributing child sexual abuse material

A Moscow man will spend 15 years in federal prison for distributing child sexual abuse material, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced Tuesday.

FIREWORKS: Brazenly breaking the law

Christie Wood’s proposed solution to our illegal fireworks dilemma completely misses the mark. She suggests the city designate areas where legal, ‘safe and sane’ fireworks could be used by families. While that’s a nice gesture, legal fireworks displays are NOT the problem in our county, ILLEGAL fireworks are the problem!

PRESS CARRIER: Thank you, Sandy Crump

I want to give a big shout out to my Coeur d’Alene Press Carrier. I have never seen her, nor do I know what kind of car she drives.

LAKELAND BOARD: Inaction and indecision

Michelle Thompson, Ramona Grissom, and David Quimby just committed Lakeland School District to another year of chaos, indecision, and financial distress by re-electing Thompson as board chair. Thompson’s statement that she has “no personal goals as the board chair” tells you everything you need to know about her leadership. Her plan to let the board decide together sounds like more of the same inaction and indecision in the face of a financial crisis.

FIREWORKS: Ban them or leave it alone

I have lived in Coeur d’Alene my entire 65 years, living downtown until third grade and Dalton, Seventh Street junior high, mid high 15th Street, Coeur d’Alene High School…

Idaho gas prices among lowest

Idaho currently ranks 16th in the country for most expensive fuel. Today’s most expensive gas is in Hawaii at $4.55 per gallon, and the cheapest fuel can be found in Oklahoma at $2.59 per gallon.

Delmar Orser, 80

Del Orser, a devoted husband, father, and servant of the Lord, went rest January 3rd.

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — How sweet it is: Breaking the sugar cycle

Sugar handling issues in the body may be the biggest cause of disease in our country. It’s common knowledge that most people consume more sugar than is healthy and obesity rates are skyrocketing. Sugar is in everything, from salad dressings to frozen pizza. And the high consumption of sugar causes downstream effects in every system in the body. It’s a nightmare.

OPINION: The lawmaking power of Idaho voters is under attack again

Dorothy Moon, the current chair of the extremist faction of the Idaho Republican Party, proclaimed on election night that: “We’re not ever going to let Reclaim Idaho bring another initiative.” Moon was honked off that the citizen initiative group had just run a third initiative drive seeking reform of Idaho laws.

FIREWORKS: Show common courtesy

Our congratulations to JoANN LOKKEN on the great My Turn piece in the CDA PRESS Jan. 14.

A guide to reviewing your own estate plan

We should all aim to have our legal planning in order, but how do you know if you have what you need in place? Spending a little time reviewing your estate plan every so often is a must. What should you look for? Let’s take it step by step.

SAME SEX MARRIAGE: Repeal would upend people’s lives

I am a resident of Idaho. My family was born and raised in Sandpoint, Idaho. It came to my attention that the Mass Resistance Right Wing Group is pushing to make Idaho’s first act of legislature “repeal the same sex marriage act.” Really?

Man held on $200K bail after alleged auto burglary

A man who allegedly stole a wallet out of an unlocked car while wanted for multiple crimes in another state is being held on $200,000 bail.

The backstory of a local business

This past Friday, I attended a retirement party for former owner Tracy Christopherson at Scott Shawver’s Auto Body and RV. The business was sold to longtime employee Mark Ferguson and his wife, Jennifer, last fall and Tracy stayed on to work with Jennifer on the administration side. Friday was her last day of work.

Despite student opposition, Idaho ban on DEI initiatives likely to move forward

The six-page draft contains extensive definitions on what constitutes diversity, equity and inclusion ideology, including unconscious or implicit bias, antiracism, racial privilege, patriarchy, and related concepts.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

What word becomes shorter when you add two letters to it?

Legals for January, 15 2025

No Pride flags allowed: Idaho proposal would ban many displays in public school classrooms

Many flags for ideological causes would be banned in public schools under a proposed Idaho law, in addition to those for LGBTQ+ Pride and political parties.

Millions under extreme fire weather alert as strong winds lash Southern California

Millions of people across Southern California faced new wildfire warnings Tuesday, and tens of thousands saw their power shut off as strong winds blew across the parched landscape around Los Angeles where two massive blazes have been burning for a week.

USDA documented insects, slime and ‘general filth’ at Boar's Head plants, records show

Government inspectors documented unsanitary conditions at several Boar's Head deli meat plants, not just the factory that was shut down last year after a deadly outbreak of listeria poisoning, federal records show.

Firefighters deploy widely as strong winds threaten more Los Angeles neighborhoods

The disaster has brought out the best and worst in people. Nine people have been charged with looting, including a group that stole an Emmy award from a house that had been evacuated, said Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman. Another pair pilfered more than $200,000 worth of items in a neighborhood filled with mansions, he said.

France’s new prime minister says he'll renegotiate a contested plan to raise the retirement age

Bayrou urgently needs to pass a budget bill for 2025. Following the collapse of the previous government, an emergency law has been approved to enable the state to levy taxes from Jan. 1, pay basic expenses and avoid a shutdown.

Al Capone called it his sweetheart. The pistol that saved his life is coming to Vegas

A rare glimpse into that part of Capone’s life will be on display for the public in a new exhibit, “The First Public Enemy,” opening Wednesday at the Mob Museum in downtown Las Vegas. For the first time, the public can get an up-close look at Capone’s favorite personal wea

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Fixing a flaw or two in the Zags offensive outlook

It happens to all of us. Some everyday question comes out of nowhere to bug you.

PREP BASKETBALL: Taylor scores 11 in third as Kellogg moves past Wallace boys

Senior Brodie Robinson scored 16 points for Kellogg (6-4), which hosts Timberlake tonight.

Northwest Notes Jan. 14, 2025

A total of 18 clinic sessions, led by coaches with college and NFL experience, are scheduled.

Idaho Gov. Little visits Hayden to talk 'Keeping Promises' plan

Governor Brad Little's laid out his vision for education policy Monday during a press conference at the StanCraft Jet Center as part of his "Keeping promises" plan for 2025.

Johnston Building in downtown Coeur d'Alene making way for Sherman Tower

Johnston Building in downtown Coeur d'Alene making way for Sherman Tower

Built in 1905, the Johnston Building at Second Street and Lakeside Avenue is one of the oldest structures in downtown Coeur d’Alene. With a view of Lake Coeur d’Alene, it served as the home to scores of professionals in banking, real estate, design and finance.

Kootenai County officials sworn in

Residents will see the same faces in Kootenai County government for the time being, save one.

Legislature introduces bill to protect speech

Sen. Brian Lenney, R-Nampa, sponsored the new bill. Lenney said the bill is similar to an unsuccessful bill he sponsored last year. He described the bill as an anti-SLAPP – or strategic lawsuits against public participation – bill designed to protect free expression and free speech.

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail.

Elected sworn in at Shoshone County Courthouse

Five elected officials were sworn in on Monday morning during an intimate ceremony inside the foyer of the Shoshone County Courthouse.

Frank Coast, 90

Frank Edward Coast, 90, of Kingston, Idaho, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, passed away January 8, 2025, at Schneidmiller Hospice House in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. He was born December 30, 1934, in Sheridan, Wyoming to Olie and Lillian (Bomar) Coast.

MY TURN: Accountability in law enforcement: Fireworks

“Police accountability involves holding both individual police officers, as well as law enforcement agencies responsible for effectively delivering basic services of crime control and maintaining order, while treating individuals fairly and within the bounds of law.” This statement appears on the Kootenai County Sheriff’s website.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Why did the duck become a spy?

Silver Valley Sports Recap: Jan. 6-12

Wildcats win Silver Bracket at River City Duals; Wildcat boys win pair of CIL battles; Wallace and Mullan also in action in busy week.

Lincoln Day Dinner on Feb. 15

Sean Spicer, former press secretary for President Donald Trump, will be the keynote speaker.

Burglary investigation leads to drug bust

Two people were arrested and charged with multiple drug offenses following an investigation of a burglary at a Pinehurst residence.

Charles Oliver Jenicek, 96

Charles Oliver Jenicek passed away peacefully in Kellogg, Idaho, two weeks shy of his 97th birthday on Friday, January 10, 2025. Born January 20, 1928, to Frank and Maude Jenicek (née Nederhood) in Springston, Idaho

Legals for January, 14 2025

Supreme Court turns back Utah's push to wrest control of public land from the federal government

In the Western state known for its rugged mountains popular with skiers and red-rock vistas that draw throngs of tourists, federal agencies control almost 70% of the land. Utah argues that local control would be more responsive and allow the state access to revenue from taxes and development projects.

Taiwan iPhone maker Foxconn sets its sights on the ever more crowded EV market

Whether or not Foxconn wanted to make a bid for Nissan, it has big ambitions, saying it eventually intends to make four of every 10 EVs sold in the world. The contract manufacturer has invested nearly $1.3 billion in auto-related acquisitions in the past decade, according to Mergermarket, a merger and acquisitions research firm.

More firefighters rush to Los Angeles as stronger winds are forecast

In less than a week, four fires around the nation’s second biggest city have scorched more than 62 square miles, roughly three times the size of Manhattan.

Up to 4 in 10 people could develop dementia after 55. What you can do to lower your risk

Prior studies estimated about 14% of men and 23% of women would develop some form of dementia during their lifetime. Coresh’s team analyzed more recent data from a U.S. study that has tracked the heart health and cognitive

Officials sound alarm about aggressive driving in Kootenai County

Distracted and aggressive driving continues to prove deadly on Kootenai County roads.

Coeur d'Alene to talk turkey

Councilors to discuss options for dealing with cluckers

The Coeur d’Alene City Councilor believes it’s time for the city to target turkeys for transport out of town before they multiple to even bigger numbers and make even bigger messes.

California's wildfire season may now be year-round

Last week’s horrendous wildfires in the Los Angeles region continue to make worldwide headlines. As of the weekend, hundreds of thousands of people were displaced with over 12,300 structures either heavily damaged or destroyed, including precious local landmarks. Damage from these blazes is likely to become the costliest in U.S. history. Hurricane Katrina in 2005 caused damages of around $195 billion.

Monday TV/Radio highlights

Television and radio highlights for Monday, Jan. 13, 2025

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Student: "I’ll never be good at geography."

NIC BASKETBALL: Salty afternoon .... Cardinal men, women battle, fall short vs. nationally ranked Salt Lake teams

“We’ve got a lot of new bodies and some of the guys just don’t know how tough this league is,” NIC men’s coach Corey Symons said. “You can’t play from behind in this league. This league is so deep and good, and they’re a top-20 team in the country. You get down 12 in the first five minutes, and it’s tough to come back.”

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: Perception of success depends on the fanbase

If Seahawk fans are OK with their team being slightly above average ... well, that stuff just isn’t good enough down the coast.

PREP WRESTLING: Trojans win fight, claim River City title

In the championship match, Post Falls beat Mead 46-28, winning the team title, the program’s ninth since the tournament began in 1998.

NIC WRESTLING: Cardinals drop final two at NJCAA Coaches Duals

NIC travels to Clackamas on Friday.

PREP BASKETBALL: Big second half powers Lakeland past Moscow

Results from Saturday's prep boys basketball and girls basketball games.

Coeur d'Alene woman recalls fond memories of working as Press carrier

Coeur d'Alene woman recalls fond memories of working as Press carrier

The license plate said it all: "Papers." Everyone who saw the station wagon coming down the street in the afternoons knew it was Coeur d'Alene Press carrier Kathy Pierce on her route, ready to deliver the day's news in a world before Facebook, smartphones and 24-hour media coverage. "I loved my job," Kathy said Jan. 3 while seated next to her husband of 48 years, John, at a dining room table topped with Press clips in their Coeur d'Alene home.

North Idaho home buyers remain in waiting

Real estate reps say home sales could pick up this year even as interest rates hold steady

Nicole Huff said the difference could be that buyers are seeing that interest rates aren’t dropping and may not. She believes those looking to buy are willing to give up on low interest rates if it means finding a home that best suits their family today.

Goats receive baa-lated Christmas treat

Some lucky goats got a belated Christmas treat on Saturday.

Boiada Brazilian Grill offers 'quality and authenticity' in Coeur d'Alene

Brazilian-born Josiane Ballin and Hélio Vieira have two priorities when it comes to their restaurant, Boiada Brazilian Grill: quality and authenticity.

HUCKLEBERRIES: Sweet as Rosen

Duane Hagadone called Sid Rosen one of the finest chefs he’d known. During the 18 years (1964-82) Sid owned Chef Rosen’s in Hayden, he hosted state attorneys general, senators, governors, local dignitaries and regular patrons.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

How do you make pancakes on Mars?

Understanding Stepped-Up Basis: A silver lining when inheriting property

When a loved one dies, taxes are probably the last thing on your mind. However, there's an important tax benefit called "stepped-up basis" that can make a big difference for Idaho families who inherit property or other assets. Let’s try to understand this concept in simple terms because it might just save you or a loved one some real money down the road.

FIREWORKS: Why aren’t laws enforced?

I want to give a shout out to everyone who has written letters regarding the lack of enforcement for illegal fireworks. I have also written several letters about the war zone on July 4.

OUR GEM: Join Us for the 2025 Speaker Series

The 2025 Our Gem Speaker Series will host 4 virtual webinars monthly from January through April. The Speaker Series is a virtual opportunity to engage the community with crucial water-related topics specific to the Coeur d’Alene region. Preregistration is required.

FIRE LEVY: Tell taxpayers what it will cost

Believe we need to shine a brighter light on the Fire Department’s need for upgraded equipment and facilities… and its partners Zion and Portman Square.

Killing creativity kills business

I like to say that you should start every day with a healthy dose of vitamin C — Creativity.

RHETORIC FROM THE LEFT: Just hyperbole?

Since Kamala just certified the election, installing Trump as president, doesn’t that make her and the left complicit for not protecting us from enemies foreign or domestic?

Right to Life march on Saturday

Right to Life of Coeur d'Alene is hosting its annual Right to Life march and rally at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, in the Skate Plaza and Candlelight Church parking lot at Dalton Avenue and U.S. 95.

SHOLEH PATRICK: Her column will be missed

I was saddened to learn that The Press will no longer carry columns by Sholeh Patrick. In 1995 Carl Sagen wrote a book entitled “The Demon Haunted World: Science as a Candle in the Dark.” A corollary for today might be “A World of Misinformation and Disinformation: Objective Journalism is a Candle in the Dark.” In an era when most media seem more interested in entertainment than information and in controversy than facts, unbiased journalism is essential.

LETTER RESPONSE: Full of fallacies

Ron Dayton’s article is rife with logical fallacies and dangerous rhetoric that contributes to the erosion of civil discourse. Ron employs apocalyptic hyperbole to invoke unwarranted fear, claiming that America is on the verge of catastrophic collapse due to the “MAGA movement.” This is a false dichotomy — suggesting that the only possible future for America is one defined by the extreme consequences outlined, when such an outcome is neither inevitable nor supported by evidence.

LAKELAND BOARD: Service over self-interest

As a social worker with 18 years of experience and a clinical assistant professor of social work, I am deeply concerned about the lack of decisive leadership from the Lakeland Joint School District Board of Trustees. At a time when our schools face dire financial challenges, the inaction of Chair Michelle Thompson is troubling — not just as a trustee but as someone licensed as an Idaho master social worker, a profession rooted in the principles of service, social justice, and integrity.

EDITORIAL: Grizzly bears aren't 'overrunning' Idaho, but we should still manage them

Grizzlies are solitary creatures and like to be alone. They generally travel solo, with the exception of mating season. So we doubt a bunch of them are getting together and “overrunning communities.”

FIGHT FOR THE FISH: Fast starts fuel rivalry showdown .... Lake City boys, Coeur d'Alene girls jump out to big leads, win in spirit games at Coeur d'Alene High

After the boys game, Lake City High was announced as the winner of the Fish, capturing the spirit competition for the third straight year, and 12th time in the last 13 Fish games.

PREP ROUNDUP: Coeur d'Alene, Lakeland, Post Falls advance to championship bracket at River City Duals

Results from Friday's prep wrestling and basketball contests.

THE FRONT ROW with JASON ELLIOTT: The grind winds into final stretch

Tough tests, they’re not just for the classroom around here.

Idaho football: Paopao hired to coach wide receivers

Paopao comes to Idaho from NCAA Division II Augustana (S.D.) where he was the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach the past two seasons, helping lead the Vikings to back-to-back NSIC titles.

Thompson, Grissom retain leadership of Lakeland Board

Thompson, Grissom retain leadership of Lakeland Board

Michelle Thompson and Ramona Grissom will retain their seats as chair and vice chair of the Lakeland School Board.

Avian influenza continues to drive up prices

It’s getting tougher to find eggs for under $5 a dozen at local grocery stores.

'Make us an offer': Heated exchange marks Hayden Area Regional Sewer Board meeting

A meeting to mediate the dissolution of the Hayden Area Regional Sewer Board was steeped in tension Friday in Hayden City Council chambers.

Lake City catches the Fish

The Coeur d’Alene High School gym shook with the howls of hundreds of proud Timberwolves Friday night. Once again, Lake City High School won Fight for the Fish.

Owl Cafe sign moves into Museum of North Idaho holdings

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NIC WRESTLING: Cardinals open 4-0 at NJCAA Coaches Duals

The tournament concludes today.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

The beautiful fish was very skittish.

School and Senior Meals

School and Senior Meals: Jan. 13-17

If you asked a critic: Hasty Oscar predictions, ‘Wallace & Gromit’

You didn’t ask, but I’m going to tell you anyway.

FAST FIVE Jeni Hegsted: Lifting up local artists in an inclusive space

Meet Jeni Hegsted, the founder and executive director of Emerge CDA.

Influenza, pertussis cases surging in Kootenai County

Pertussis is a disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is particularly dangerous for infants, young children, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms typically begin with mild cold-like signs, such as a runny nose, mild cough, and low fever, and can progress to severe coughing fits, often accompanied by a "whooping" sound.

Newspaper career started in the streets

They also offered what were called Bonus Bucks. Carriers received two Bonus Bucks each month and if you saved up enough, you could order something from their catalogue. My best prizes were a renaissance chess set, of which I still have a few pieces, and a Kodak Instamatic 126 camera, my first.

Slow start to Idaho's legislative session looks to pick up next week

A handful of bills were introduced on the House side in the few committees that officially met this week.

Spokane man jailed after skipping sentencing for burglary, forgery

A man who pleaded guilty to forging a check worth more than $6,400 and later skipped out on his sentencing is back in jail.

Conway 'Pete' Ellers, 87

Conway Leroy Ellers, “Pete,” was born October 23, 1937, to Henry Edward Ellers and Doris Lorraine (Ray) Ellers in Akron, Ohio. He grew up there and graduated from Kenmore High School.

Coeur d'Alene may consider fireworks zones

Wood and other councilors have heard from residents unhappy with repeated explosions into the early morning hours.

Edward McIntee, 71

On December 27, 2024, at the age 71, Edward Thomas McIntee of Butte Montana passed from this life on to the next to live with the lord. Ed was born in Butte to Thomas and Maxine McIntee May 9, 1953.

Coeur d'Alene Kohl's survives closure list

While Kohl's continues to believe in the health and strength of its profitable store base, these specific locations were underperforming stores," the release said.

The Exhausted Dad: Battling sleep like a 13-year-old

My oldest daughter, age 13, rejects the core principles of sleep.

Donations

Donations

Legals for January, 11 2025

After Biden veto, U.S. Rep. Simpson introduces bill for third Idaho federal district judge

Congress approved Idaho’s second federal district judgeship in 1954, when Idaho’s population was around 600,000 people. As one of the fastest-growing states in recent years, Idaho is now home to over 2 million people.

Venezuela's Maduro takes new oath amid protests and international rebuke

Maduro, likening himself to a biblical David fighting Goliath, accused his opponents and their supporters in the U.S. of trying to turn his inauguration into a “world war.” He said his enemies' failure to block his inauguration to a third, six-year term was “a great victory" for Venezuela's peace and national sovereignty.

Firefighters hope for a break from fierce winds fueling devastating blazes in Los Angeles area

The fires have burned more than 10,000 homes and other structures since Tuesday, when they first began popping up around a densely populated, 25-mile expanse north of downtown Los Angeles. No cause has been identified for the largest fires.

Delta Air Lines says 4 passengers injured after flight was aborted at Atlanta airport

Some of the heaviest snowfall was expected Friday across the northern half of Arkansas and much of Tennessee, with expected totals in some parts of those states ranging from 6 to 9 inches (about 15 to 22 centimeters), according to the National Weather Service.

Trump is sentenced in his hush money case, but the judge declines to impose any punishment

Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan could have sentenced the 78-year-old Republican to up to four years in prison. Instead, he chose a sentence that sidestepped thorny constitutional issues by effectively ending the case but assured that Trump will become the first person convicted of a felony to assume the presidency.

NIC BASKETBALL: Galindo pushes Cardinals in win

NIC hosts Salt Lake on Saturday, starting with the women's game at 1 p.m., followed by the men's game at 3 p.m.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: A team decision on Geno needs to be made

Will the Seahawks keep rockin’ with Geno Smith? And. Would that be by choice, or because there’s no feasible way to add a new QB1?

‘I didn’t come here to lose’ ... WSU introduces Rogers as Cougar football coach

Rogers, head coach at FCS power South Dakota State the past two seasons, replaces Jake Dickert, who left last month to become head coach at Wake Forest.

PREP BASKETBALL: Engelson scores 27 for Timberlake

Results from Thursday's prep boys and girls basketball games.

PREP WRESTLING: Lake City rallies past Nampa

All three teams will compete in the River City Duals tournament today at Post Falls High.

'Like a fire tornado': Coeur d'Alene family loses California home in Eaton Canyon blaze

Family with local ties loses home in Southern California fires

When the first flames of what would become southern California’s Eaton Canyon Fire sparked on Tuesday night, Kim Budge couldn’t have guessed what was to come for her and her family over the next few hours.

North Idaho fire crews deploy to California wildfires

At 6 a.m. Thursday, first responders from fire departments spanning North Idaho assembled their fire engines to begin the two-day trek to relieve fire crews battling the fires in Los Angeles County.

Updates completed on Post Falls lift station

The Corbin lift station rehabilitation project has come in under budget.

Post Falls city councilor interviews take place next week

City officials will conduct interviews for the open final city council at 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16 at Post Falls City Hall. The open seat is to replace Josh Walker's position on the council.

Idaho prep boys basketball poll Jan. 10, 2025

How the state's media voted this week.

County renews law enforcement contract with Smelterville

The city of Smelterville will continue to receive 730 annual patrol hours from the Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office after the county commissioners signed off on a new contract between the two entities on Thursday morning.

Coeur d'Alene man charged with I-90 shooting

Police arrested a man Wednesday night who allegedly shot another vehicle while driving under the influence.

Study to be completed on old Wallace school building

For the past few years, the Wallace School District has been exploring options related to the old Wallace High School building. However, a determination on the building’s fate may be on the horizon.

Weekend TV/Radio highlights

Television, radio and streaming highlights for the upcoming weekend.

PRESS: Columnists will be missed

Mike and Sholeh Patrick and Nils Rosdahl and their contributions to The Press will be much missed by us old timers. It seems the new people love change.

LEGISLATORS: They work for us

When we elect officials, we pay them for a job they haven’t done yet. We believe they will serve the voters. Like any one we hire, we must consistently observe legislators’ work to ensure they are meeting OUR expectations.

Idaho bill introduced to create minimum fine for marijuana possession

Rep. Bruce Skaug, R-Nampa, presented a proposed bill Thursday afternoon that would create a mandatory minimum $300 fine for possession of 3 ounces or less of marijuana.

MAGA: The destruction of America

Did anyone know by now that we are living in the eve of destruction and America is turning into a third world country thanks to the blind followers of the maga movement. Sorry to say that the new year will not be as you expected.

Kellogg woman convicted of domestic battery

A Kellogg woman was found guilty of felony domestic battery earlier this week following a one-day jury trial that needed just 30 minutes to return a verdict.

Hayden Cinema movie times

Hayden Cinema movie times

EDITORIAL: The clock is ticking as Lakeland leadership avoids tough decisions

The Lakeland School Board finds itself in a crisis of its own making.

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail.

Live auditions to be held Jan. 25, 26; virtual auditions now being accepted

Live auditions to be held Jan. 25, 26; virtual auditions now being accepted

Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre has announced a casting call for its 58th season, which will include a lineup of Broadway classics: "Hello, Dolly!," "Anastasia the Musical" and "She Loves Me."

Helen R. Mitchell, 92

Helen Ruth Renfroe Mitchell, 92, passed away on January 4, 2025, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Born on May 13, 1932, in Pelsor, Arkansas, to Marvin and Estelle Renfroe, Helen’s family relocated to Cataldo, Idaho, in 1940.

Idaho legislative committee recommends $1.55 per hour raises for state employees

Larger targeted increases approved for ISP troopers, IT and engineering staff

Members of the Change in Employee Compensation Committee said that state employees who make $64,480 or less per year will see at least a 5% raise under the $1.55 per hour raises. State employees who make more than $64,480 would receive less than a 5% raise.

OPINION: IDGOP winter meeting

The Idaho Republican Party (IDGOP) State Central Committee meets every 6 months to receive reports from our party officers and to consider new rules and resolutions. The Winter Meeting was held last week in Boise and was well attended.

LAKELAND BOARD: A severe lack of foresight

It’s been made very clear on several occasions now that the majority of the Lakeland school board does not respect the teachers who work tirelessly in the district, the patrons of the community, and the students that this all ultimately affects. The failure of the levy was a blow to the community, but what’s even more troubling is the complete lack of a coherent response from the board in the two months that have followed. Instead of working diligently to address the funding gap and come up with a clear plan to rectify the situation, the board has done everything except take meaningful action. I’ve attended several board meetings where they have managed to insult teachers while questioning their qualifications, blamed district staff for not giving them information that was right in front of their faces, and analyzed every meaningless line item of the budget without making any sort of concrete decisions.

CDA POLICE: Officer was caring

Thank you Coeur d’Alene police officer Jake for trying to check on my 80-year-old husband New Year’s Day. He had panicked because when he woke up, I was not there and he could not remember my cell number.

Mother-daughter authors share love of writing

The writing gene is strong in the family of mother Angela Gates and daughter J.H. Lehr, local authors who have penned several books across the realms of fiction and fantasy.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

How do you know if a houseplant is mad at you?

Kim Elton Gittel, 71

KIM ELTON GITTEL, 71, passed away on December 9th, 2024. Kim was born June 29th, 1953, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho to Elton Gittel and Marie Thatcher (McEachren).

Sheriff says 'no arrests' during disaster emergency

In response to growing concerns regarding the County's Emergency Operations Plan, Sheriff Robert Norris reaffirmed today that individuals will not be arrested for refusing to evacuate during a Disaster Emergency.

Legals for January, 10 2025

Macy's to close Silver Lake Mall store

“Closing any store is never easy, but as part of our Bold New Chapter strategy, we are closing underproductive Macy’s stores to allow us to focus our resources and prioritize investments in our go–forward stores, where customers are already responding positively to better product offerings and elevated service,” said Tony Spring, chairman and chief executive officer of Macy’s, Inc.

Bald eagle shot, killed near Sandpoint

Fish and Game asks for help find shooter

The eagle was believed to have been killed between Dec. 24 and 26 near Sunnyside Road near Fisherman Island on Lake Pend Oreille.

Idaho mobilizes firefighting teams, local agencies to support California’s wildfire efforts

Idaho is mobilizing five task forces to assist in protecting communities threatened by wildfires burning in Southern California.

Scientists drill nearly 2 miles down to pull 1.2 million-year-old ice core from Antarctic

The same team previously drilled a core about 800,000 years old. The latest drilling went 2.8 kilometers (about 1.7 miles) deep, with a team of 16 scientists and support personnel drilling each summer over four years in average temperatures of about minus-35 Celsius (minus-25.6 Fahrenheit).

Jimmy Carter lauded for his humility and service in Washington before his return to Georgia

Jimmy Carter was celebrated Thursday for his personal humility and public service before, during and after his presidency during a funeral at Washington National Cathedral featuring the kind of pageantry the 39th U.S. president typically eschewed.

More evacuations are ordered as another wildfire breaks out in the Los Angeles area

Firefighters aided by calmer winds saw the first signs of successfully beating back the deadly and devastating wildfires Thursday, though the fires still burned out of control in and around Los Angeles as the enormity of the devastation started to come into focus with haunting scenes of destruction.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: The Sky is falling — in FCS title games, anyway

SINCE EASTERN Washington beat Delaware in the 2010 championship game for its first national title, the Big Sky has gone 0-4 in championship games – all against the Dakota schools, all in the last seven seasons.

PREP ROUNDUP: Lakeside girls top Genesis Prep in matchup of league co-leaders

Lakeside moves to 3-0 in Scenic Idaho Conference play.

Hometown high school spirit contest, basketball games Friday at Coeur d'Alene

Hometown high school spirit contest, basketball games Friday at Coeur d'Alene

Two local high schools are revving their engines and paying homage to the Caped Crusader this week as they gear up for Friday's Fight for the Fish basketball games and spirit competition.

Rathdrum homeowner prevails in tax appeal

The case of a Rathdrum man who prevailed in an occupancy tax appeal hearing Wednesday highlighted how Kootenai County handles proration required by Idaho law.

Residents turn out in opposition of marina expansion in Post Falls

At the top of the City Council meeting Tuesday, Mayor Ron Jacobson addressed the residents hoping to make public comments about an issue regarding the proposed expansion of Marina 33 at the former Red Lion Templin's Hotel on the River.

Woody in-stream structures slow down runoff, enhance habitats in Cataldo project

The Clearwater Soil and Water Conservation District and the Kootenai-Shoshone SWCD recently completed conservation projects using primitive woody structures called beaver dam analogs and post-assisted log structures to slow down spring runoff, reduce sediment flows and enhance fish habitat.

Coeur d'Alene Resort Spa recognized for outstanding spa experience

The Coeur d'Alene Resort Spa has been awarded the 2024 International Spa Association Innovate Award in the ‘Spa Experience’ Category.

At college/in the pros Jan. 9, 2025

Updates on local athletes playing at the next level.

Northwest Notes Jan. 9, 2025

The new five-year contract, which was approved by the Idaho State Board of Education in December, keeps Dickey at the helm of Boise State Athletics by adding three years to his original five-year deal.

Forest Service approves Stibnite Gold Mine in Central Idaho

Historic gold mine is located in Payette National Forest, just outside Frank Church Wilderness

A company called Perpetua Resources – formerly known as Midas Gold – seeks to resume mining gold, silver and the chemical element antimony at the Stibnite Gold Mine. Mining at the site dates back to 1899 and the Thunder Mountain Gold Rush. Metals mined at Stibnite contributed to the World War II effort.

If snow falls today, holiday diamonds would be free

The National Weather Service pegs the chance of snow making an appearance at the airport as slim, with highs in the 30s and lows in the 20s.

Reward up to $20,000 offered for information on each of three Washington wolf killings

Gray wolves are considered endangered under Washington state law and federally protected in the western two-thirds of the state

On Oct. 6, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife investigated the death of an adult male gray wolf that occurred east of the Klickitat River near U.S. Highway 142 and Goldendale in the south-central part of the state. The wolf died from starvation after it was shot and had to drag itself to a water source without the use of its back legs, according to the agency.

Bowling scores: Jan. 9, 2025

Scores from area leagues.

Forest Service releases Granite Fuels Project plans

Look to reintroduce prescribed fire to upper St. Joe River country

The project area encompasses about 112,000 acres between the North Fork of the Clearwater River and the Upper St. Joe River including the Mallard Larkins Pioneer Area and the Snow Peak Wildlife Management Area, a press release said.

Lakes fundraiser Friday at Triple Play

The Lakes Middle School Parent, Teacher, Student Association will host a fundraiser at Triple Play Family Fun Park from 6-9 p.m. Friday.

Over the Hill: Curing the winter blues with snow sports

Since moving to north Idaho, I’ve been given all sorts of advice by locals. A lot of this advice has centered around getting through winter.

BLM to charge day-use fees at Killarney Lake, other sites

The Bureau of Land Management has approved plans to collect day-use fees at three recreation sites managed by the Coeur d’Alene Field Office.

Grizzly mortality in Montana down in 2024

The number of known grizzly bear deaths in the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem for 2024 was well below 2023.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

I'm starting a new gig: Covering classic folk tunes in rap style.

Legals for January, 9 2025

New research shows a quarter of freshwater animals are threatened with extinction

The researchers examined around 23,500 species of dragonflies, fish, crabs and other animals that depend exclusively on freshwater ecosystems. They found that 24% were at risk of extinction – classified as vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered – due to compounding threats from pollution, dams, water extraction, agriculture, invasive species, climate change and other disruptions.

Wildfires burn out of control across Los Angeles area and kill 5 as thousands flee homes

Multiple massive wildfires tore across the Los Angeles area with devastating force Wednesday, destroying more than 1,000 structures and killing at least two people as desperate residents escaped through flames, ferocious winds and towering clouds of smoke.

Injury crash reported on Lookout Pass

Idaho 511 is reporting a crash on westbound I90 at Lookout Pass near River Street.

Committee introduces bill to make it harder to pass voter initiatives

Rep. Todd Achilles, D-Boise, said that he and the other Democrat on the committee, Rep. Brooke Green, usually opt to vote to introduce bills “out of respect for the legislative process,” but it doesn’t mean they support the content of the legislation.

U.S. will keep protecting Rocky Mountain grizzly bears

Gov. Little critical of decision, calls for Fish and Game to find 'rationale' behind it

Federal officials also said they will reclassify the grizzly’s status so that ranchers would be able to shoot bears that are killing livestock. Officials will end protections for the animals in states where they’re no longer found, including California, Colorado, New Mexico and Oregon. The fearsome bruins have been protected as a threatened species across the lower 48 states since 1975. Officials during President-elect Donald Trump’s first term sought to eliminate those protections, but were blocked in court.

PREP ROUNDUP: Post Falls grinds past Coeur d'Alene boys

Results from Tuesday's prep boys and girls basketball games.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Believe it, M's still have a shot at some stars

Maybe I’m willing to risk a painful fall (my back can’t possibly get any worse) because so many Mariner fans are frustrated to the point of throwing themselves into the fireplace. You remember the Mariners, right?

Youth Sports Jan. 8, 2025

Scores, news, photos from local youth sports teams, leagues, etc.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Brooklyn Anderson, Coeur d'Alene High School

Coeur d'Alene High School junior wrestler Brooklyn Anderson is this week's Knudtsen Chevrolet Press Athlete of the Week.

Coeur d'Alene High opens capsule of treasures from Class of 1950

Coeur d'Alene High opens capsule of treasures from Class of 1950

A "C" chenille patch, state track medals from 1949 and 1950, newspaper clippings, photographs and a brick from the original Coeur d'Alene High School on Seventh Street. These were among the treasures revealed Tuesday when a time capsule left by the class of 1950 was removed from its protective cage and finally opened. “It’s exciting,” Class of 2000 graduate Justin Capaul said. “It’s an honor to open it on behalf of both classes, the Class of 1950 and the Class of 2000.”

Outgoing Kootenai County commissioner says farewell

Outgoing county commissioner says farewell

Outgoing county commissioner says farewell

Coeur d'Alene council OKs bond survey

Will gauge community support of fire department needs

The bond’s “high-water mark” for use in the survey only is $16.4 million. When proposed in May, the figure could change. It would pay for replacing fire apparatus and expansion and remodeling of fire stations.

Arts nonprofit surpasses fundraising campaign

Arts nonprofit surpasses fundraising campaign

Emerge is going to be OK, thanks to a little help from its friends. The downtown Coeur d'Alene arts nonprofit launched a $45,000 "Help from Friends" fundraising campaign in November to cover a $50,000 shortfall that was expected due to the denial of a grant application by a usual funding source. Executive Director Jeni Hegsted reported the campaign exceeded expectations. "Emerge raised $48,592!" she told The Press via email Saturday. "We are so beyond grateful for the community's support."

Idaho prep girls basketball poll Jan. 8, 2025

How the state's media voted this week.

Trashed Trees

Christmas trees are piled high at the Ramsey Road transfer station in Coeur d'Alene on Saturday.

MEDAL OF FREEDOM: The honor is now a joke

Do you need more evidence? Still think President Biden is in control of his faculties?

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Possible link between chronic pain and dementia

After completing a study that spanned more than a decade, researchers have discovered a possible link between chronic pain and an increased risk of dementia. Chronic pain is a growing problem and affects half of the elderly population who live independently and up to 85% of those in care facilities. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine reported that people with chronic pain have a more rapid memory decline and a faster increase in dementia probability compared to those without chronic pain.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

I have an idea for a chain of Elvis steak houses.

Helen R. Mitchell, 92

Helen Ruth Renfroe Mitchell, 92, passed away on January 4, 2025, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Born on May 13, 1932, in Pelsor, Arkansas, to Marvin and Estelle Renfroe, Helen’s family relocated to Cataldo, Idaho, in 1940.

OPINION: Idaho's Constitution does not permit private school subsidies

Despite the fact that Article IX, section 5 of Idaho’s Constitution strictly prohibits using public funds for religious education, Idaho’s spendthrift legislators are at it again. They want to shower taxpayer money upon parents who are sending their kids to private schools, which would open the floodgates to subsidizing religious education.

NCAA: NIL is ruining college sports

As an 80-year-old longtime sports fan, the direction college sports is taking is being ruined by the transfer portal (where players can change teams almost any time) and the advent of NIL (name, image and likeness) payments to athletes.

MY TURN: Jean presented issue clearly

Kudos to Tonya Jean for her guest editorial regarding Bible reading in public schools.

Summary Administration for surviving spouses can avoid probate

When a spouse dies, the last thing the surviving partner wants to deal with is complex legal procedures. Fortunately, Idaho law provides a streamlined process called Summary Administration that can help some surviving spouses handle their deceased partner's estate quickly and efficiently.

PRESS: Report on lack of enforcement

Kudos to Nathan Bell’s letter addressed to those who set off fireworks without regard to how it effects the community around them. And to all the others with similar concerns who have written in the past. AND while we’re at it to those who write to complain about the lack of traffic enforcement throughout the county.

CLN: Campaign censors diverse voices

For those in our community who don’t know it, there is a group working tirelessly to censor and remove books from our local libraries and schools.

EDITORIAL: Emergency plan's objections should be heeded

The stated purpose of this plan is “to guide the County in its actions before, during, and after an emergency or disaster. It is the intent of this Plan to be scalable to the size of event that is occurring within the County. This EOP provides the framework in which the County’s resources will respond to an emergency or disaster.”

Northwest Notes Jan. 8, 2025

Idaho will host six home football games, all against Division I opponents, at the Kibbie Dome in 2025 after St. Thomas University (Minn.) and UI agreed to amend a previous agreement.

There are snow angels among us

While the eastern and central regions of our country are being walloped by record snow and cold, we’ve experienced a very mild winter. So far.

Schneidmiller Realty will have new home at The Plaza Shops

The newly remodeled space will boast over 3,000-square-feet overlooking the lake and Resort grounds. "Coldwell Banker will continue to be an integral part of Downtown Coeur d'Alene," said Gary Schneidmiller, founder, owner and broker of Schneidmiller Realty. "We are thrilled to soon occupy one of the most visible addresses in the heart of Coeur d’Alene."

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Reset your health: Detox season begins

I love this time of year! Time to get back on track from a season of indulgences, and, if we’re honest with ourselves, a year or so of indulgences in things ‘we know better’ than to partake of. The New Year brings an opportunity to start with a clean slate. It gives us an opportunity to re-evaluate what is of priority. Since we only get one body for our lifetime, many people choose their health as one of their priorities and try again to keep it as a priority.

Lewis-Clark State College announces fall 2024 honor roll

Lewis Clark State College has announced its 2024 fall semester honor roll.

Gas prices remain low

In a surprise twist, Idaho gas prices plateaued around $3.60 per gallon for most of the summer, in part due to stable crude oil prices and steady refinery production, which helped offset increased fuel demand, according to AAA. Pump prices in the Gem State have been steadily falling since September.

Sandra Anderson, 76

On December 10, 2024, Sandra Anderson gained her heavenly wings. She was born to Raymond and Elmarie Waterhouse on January 29, 1948, and was raised in Post Falls, Idaho.

Gov. Little to visit Coeur d'Alene

Will deliver keynote address Feb. 4 at The Resort

"The Governor Little Address is a cornerstone event for our chamber and our community," said Linda Coppess, CEO and President of the Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber.

Two openings on Design Review

One seat must be filled by a person licensed in building or site design, or a registered architect licensed in the State of Idaho. The other seat must be filled by a real estate professional

OPINION: Waging peace, fighting disease, building hope

Four years ago this week, thousands of people gathered in Washington, D.C. upset by the outcome of the presidential election. We saw what happens when a president declines to step up as a leader. One hundred and forty police officers were assaulted, a building that should be revered was desecrated, and losses exceeded $2.8 million.

Legals for January, 8 2025

Many structures already destroyed in Pacific Palisades wildfire, California governor says

Firefighters scrambled to corral a fast-moving wildfire in the Los Angeles hillsides dotted with celebrity homes as a fierce windstorm hit Southern California on Tuesday, fanning the blaze seen for miles as scores of residents abandoned their cars and fled on foot to safety with roads blocked.

Biden administration withdraws old-growth forest plan after getting pushback from industry and GOP

The Biden administration on Tuesday abruptly dropped its nascent plan to protect old-growth forests after getting pushback from Republicans and the timber industry.

Jimmy Carter's casket arrives at the US Capitol, where he will lie in state

Nearly 44 years after Jimmy Carter left the nation's capital in humbling defeat, the 39th president returned to Washington for three days of state funeral rites starting Tuesday.

What would Bonhoeffer do? Anti-Nazi pastor's legacy claimed, debated across political spectrum

Churches worldwide commemorate him in statues and stained glass. Readers have explored him in books about and by him, particularly his blunt calls to sacrificial discipleship. “When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die,” he famously wrote.

The polar vortex brings its bitter cold to the Southern US

As the cold front moved southward Tuesday, it prompted a cold weather advisory for the Gulf Coast and pushed the low temperature in El Paso, along Texas' border with Mexico, to 31 degrees (minus 0.5 Celsius), with an expected wind chill factor ranging from 0 to 15 degrees (minus 18 to minus 9 Celsius) early Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.

Peter Yarrow of folk-music trio Peter, Paul and Mary dies at 86

During an incredible run of success spanning the 1960s, Yarrow, Noel Paul Stookey and Mary Travers released six Billboard Top 10 singles, two No. 1 albums and won five Grammys.

Biggest Nvidia takeaways from Jensen Huang's CES 2025 keynote

In a packed Las Vegas arena, Huang kicked off the CES this week with his vision for how his companies' products will drive gaming, robotics, personal computing and even self-driving vehicles forward.

Idaho House begins session with legislation on same-sex marriage, Boise State volleyball

Rep. Heather Scott, R-Blanchard, was the first to introduce her memorial to the committee. The memorial pushes to restore the authority of defining marriage to the states and urges the U.S. Supreme Court to reconsider its 2015 decision in Obergefell v. Hodges that legalized same-sex marriage.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Close, but still missing a serious piece

The Seahawks are close, really close. They just need a dude.

Court rules against former WSU coach Rolovich in mandate dispute

Rolovich served as WSU’s head football coach from Jan. 2020 until Dec. 2021.

Idaho football: Northwest native Cross named tight ends coach, recruiting coordinator

Cross spent last season as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at FCS Stetson, a Pioneer League team in DeLand, Fla. During his time at Stetson, the Hatters led the Pioneer in passing yards and yards per game despite having six different QBs who took snaps in 11 games.

PREP BOYS BASKETBALL: Connelly, Clemens lead Coeur du Christ past Bonners JV

"Good game," first-year Coeur du Christ coach Chris Kiefer said. "We played the bench for a good majority of the game. Most points from the bench we've ever had."

Gov. Little opens Idaho's legislative session with State of the State

School choice, an investment in the state’s natural resources and expanded efforts to address the state’s housing needs were some of the key issues highlighted in Monday’s opening of the legislative session.

Little proposes $50 million for private school expenses

Idaho Gov. Brad Little kicked off the state’s 2025 legislative session Monday by proposing new tax cuts, increased funding for public schools and spending taxpayer dollars on tuition at private schools.

Hayden animal shelter still full after 1,448 adoptions in 2024

New wing opening soon

The no-kill shelter marked its first full year in its new, 22,000-square-foot home on Atlas Road. It took in dogs that were abandoned and abused. Puppies and kittens were left in boxes outside its doors. One pit bull was tied up to a post and left in the night. Another dog came in with a face full of porcupine quills.

Lakeland to discuss financial emergency Wednesday

Trustees of Lakeland Joint School District's board will discuss steps for declaring a financial emergency during a regular meeting at 6 p.m. Wednesday in the Lakeland Middle School gym, 15601 N. State Highway 41, Rathdrum.

Northwest Notes Jan. 7, 2025

News on Big Sky Conference's media deal with ESPN and Eastern Washington football.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

I lost my phone.

Matthew D. Stillinger, 52

Matthew D. Stillinger, 52, of Bellevue, Nebraska, passed away on December 31, 2024. Matthew was born and raised in the Northwest but called Nebraska, home.

Wallace considering 'Special Events' law

The Wallace City Council will be hosting a public hearing on Tuesday, January 8, to discuss a proposed Special Events Ordinance that was discussed at December’s council meeting.

Silver Valley Sports Recap: Dec. 30 - Jan. 5

Slow week following the holiday break, packed week ahead for Silver Valley teams.

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail.

Traffic safety grants for Idaho roadways now open to communities

The Idaho Office of Highway Safety is now accepting grant applications for fiscal year 2026.

Project to repaint road lines between Osburn and Wallace will have to wait

A highly trafficked section of road is at the top of Shoshone County Public Works Director Jessica Stutzke’s to-do list, but people are going to need to be patient with the county.

Nell Simpson, 85

Nell Simpson, age 85, of Twin Lakes, Idaho, passed away peacefully on December 29th, 2024, in Coeur d' Alene, Idaho. Mom was born Nellie Jane Rinehart on August 24, 1939, in Mullin, Texas,

Man jailed for excessive DUI

A man who drove drunk last summer will spend three months in jail.

THE DIRT: Understanding the work throughout Burke Pt. 2

The cleanup at the Hecla Star Complex started in 2023. The area known as Burke saw a big increase in construction work this past summer and will continue through the summer of 2026.

Peter Edward Weske, 66

Peter Edward Weske, 66, of Sweetgrass, Mont., and formerly of Kingston, Idaho, passed away on January 2, 2025, in Kingston, Idaho. Peter was born on August 7, 1958, in Moose Lake, Minn, the youngest of 4 children born to Floyd and Elizabeth (Losensky) Weske.

No place like home: Wallace Food Bank looks for new location

The Wallace Food Bank is searching for a new place to call home. Last winter, the nonprofit began looking for a new building that better fit their needs, but the clock is now ticking down on locating a new spot to base their operations. For years, the group has called the Prayer Station basement home, but the church’s lease expired at the end of 2024 and their future tenure at the 4th Street is uncertain.

Legals for January, 7 2025

Teens charged in Coeur d'Alene gas station shooting

Two teens are facing criminal charges after a dispute over jewelry culminated in a shooting at a gas station last week, police said.

Canada's Trudeau announces resignation after nearly a decade as prime minister

TORONTO (AP) — Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation Monday after nearly a decade in power, bowing to rising discontent over his leadership and growing turmoil within his government signaled by the abrupt departure of his finance minister.

Idaho governor calls for funding for public schools, tax cuts and investments in wildfire fighting

Gov. Brad Little outlines budget, policy priorities in annual State of the State address

The Latest: Snow, ice and frigid temperatures make for a dangerous winter mix

Winter weather often causes flight delays and cancellations. While airlines can’t control the weather, they are required in the U.S. to provide refunds to customers whose flights are canceled.

Congress certifies Trump won the election without challenge

One by one, the state results were read aloud by the tellers as senators and representatives sat in seats in the House chamber. Vice President-elect JD Vance joined his former colleagues and was surrounded by congratulatory handshakes, hugs and photos afterward.

NIC Workforce Training expands to Sandpoint

The North Idaho College Workforce Training Center is bringing training programs closer to home for residents of Bonner and Boundary counties.

New lights brighten up Silver Valley cemeteries

Cemeteries may not be the most hopeful of places, but at Kellogg’s Greenwood Cemetery and Shoshone Memorial Gardens in Pinehurst, the new lighted crosses have provided some much-needed light in the darkness, both literally and figuratively.

Helpers: Road to rebuilding theater aided by local couple's efforts

Helpers on the local arts scene, Brooke and Damon Wood have been nominated for their work helping Lake City Playhouse thrive again after the theater took a turn. Jessica Peterson of Lake City Playhouse nominated them both for their intense efforts.

Last year was another one for record-breaking weather

We’re now into 2025 and last year was another one of record-breaking weather across the Inland Northwest and the rest of the U.S.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

How does a cucumber become a pickle?

Monday TV/Radio highlights

Television, radio and streaming highlights for Monday, Jan. 6

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE:Ted Page remembered as a coach, grandpa and friend

“As a basketball coach, I appreciated getting Ted Page-coached baseball players,” former Coeur d’Alene High boys basketball coach Jim Kravik said. “They understood the discipline that was needed for the task at hand.”

Former Lake City High star Johnson transfers from Idaho to Stanford

“Stanford, in multiple aspects, is an incredible opportunity for me to earn a prestigious degree, as well as play football at the highest level,” Johnson told The Press. “I left Idaho because of the changes that came after the season ended with coach Eck and some of his coaching staff leaving.”

PREP WRESTLING: Sandpoint's Tyler rallies for Rollie Lane title

Results from Saturday's Rollie Lane Invitational in Nampa, The Clash in Wisconsin, Pacific Northwest Classic in Spokane Valley and Orofino Invitational.

NIC BASKETBALL: Cardinal men fall in battle with Southern Idaho

North Idaho College returns home to face Colorado Northwestern on Thursday.

PREP BASKETBALL: Bonners Ferry rolls to Lewiston tourney title

Results from Saturday's prep boys and girls basketball games.

Rathdrum's $15M City Hall project moves forward

The city's long-discussed plans for a new City Hall are closer to becoming a reality.

Fun and fresh snow for annual Panhandle Nordic Club fundraiser

The Panhandle Nordic Club was graced with plenty of fresh snow for their annual Best Hand Cross Country Ski and Showshoe Fundraiser on Saturday.

Trail Life CDA takes lead on accessibility project

The boys of Trail Life CDA certainly weren’t taking a snow day on Saturday.

'TikTok and Jesus' inspired Rathdrum's newest dining hotspot

Hot Pot Ramen House owners Jimmy and Lisa Maxwell had two sources of inspiration for their newly-opened restaurant.

Idaho football: Cooper hired as strength and conditioning coach

A veteran strength coach and former college football player, Cooper comes to Moscow from the Los Angeles Rams where he was an associate strength and conditioning coach for the past four years. He was on the staff for the 2022 Super Bowl 56 championship team and has experience from multiple FBS schools.

HUCKLEBERRIES: A Western delicacy with local fans

Al Bates’s taste for Rocky Mountain oysters outlived him. Al was smitten by the farm-animal delicacy while working on a Montana sheep ranch.

Republicans to focus on school vouchers, DEI, immigration as Idaho Legislature returns

Idaho lawmakers are preparing to head back to the Capitol for the upcoming legislative session next week, and this year, you can expect to see proposals reflecting a Legislature that has shifted even further to the right.

Community Thanks

See who's thankful!

Anthony P. Davis Jr., 48

Anthony P Davis Jr. was born May 14, 1976, to Anthony and Geraldine (Kunze) Davis in Spokane, Washington. He passed away at home in Spokane Valley, Washington, on December 19, 2024.

Estate Planning in 2025: A New Year’s Resolution worth keeping

As we welcome 2025, many of us are making resolutions about health, finances, and personal growth. Yet there's one resolution that often gets overlooked — getting our estate planning in order. It's a task that nearly half of Americans continue to postpone, thinking we'll "get to it soon enough." Even among those who have estate plans, many hold outdated documents that no longer reflect their current wishes or circumstances.

FIREWORKS: Laws aren’t enforced

In a follow up to Nathan Bells article, Nathan forgot to mention it is against the law in Kootenai County and most cities within the county to use fireworks that are launched 10 feet or higher above the ground.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Why did the baker go to church on Sunday?

MEDICAID: Legislature should leave it alone

The PEOPLE of Idaho, through the essential CITIZEN’S INITIATIVE Process, won Medicaid expansion to provide essential medical care to ALL our residents and citizens in Idaho in 2020.

Be a creativity superhero

Years ago, one of Ripley's famous "Believe It or Not!" comics pictured a plain bar of iron worth $5 and pointed out that if you forged the iron into horseshoes, it would then be worth $10.50. If you used the iron for making needles, it would then be worth $3,285. And if you turned the iron into watch springs, the value would soar to $250,000. There's a big difference between $5 and $250,000. The difference is applied creativity.

OPINION: Turning point's impact on young adult engagement

Two weekends ago, the energy inside the Phoenix Convention Center was electrifying. I had the privilege of joining fellow Idahoans at Turning Point’s 2024 AmericaFest (AmFest), an incredible event that united over 20,000 patriots. Once again, it proved why it stands as the largest conservative movement in America. For young adults eager to engage in shaping the political landscape, this event was nothing short of impactful. The leadership of Charlie Kirk and Turning Point has ignited a fire across college campuses, and the evidence was clear in the young adult-driven momentum of the 2024 election.

Jeffery Scott Moss, 65

Jeffery Scott Moss, 65, most recently of Wells, Nevada, died on December 22, 2024, at his home with his best friend, Abby, by his side. Jeff was born at home in Brookings, Oregon on June 20, 1959, to Millie and SA Moss,

EDITORIAL: When the swearing-in ends, the real work begins

Also occurring in December and January each year, without parades or hoopla, in city halls, county courthouses and at our state capitol the newly elected and returning councilors, commissioners and legislators are sworn into office.

Second case of CWD detected in Idaho domestic elk

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture has confirmed a second case of Chronic Wasting Disease in domestic elk following the testing of an adult domestic cow elk that died in a Jefferson County facility.

Man convicted of grand theft, burglary following art gallery theft

A man has been convicted of Grand Theft and Burglary, both felonies, after stealing two gold bars and several gold chains from an area art and antique gallery.

PREP GIRLS BASKETBALL: Defending their court ... Coeur d'Alene hands 4A Timberlake first loss in defensive battle

Lakeland High senior Landree Simon goes over 1,000-point mark on Friday in Lewiston.

PREP BOYS BASKETBALL: Trojans run past Eastmont

Coeur d'Alene downs Hermiston in home game on Friday afternoon.

THE FRONT ROW with JASON ELLIOTT: No playoffs, but what else did you expect?

Things will change again sooner than later.

PREP WRESTLING: Vikings fourth after first day at Rollie Lane

"It’s a really tough tournament and we had a lot of tough matches early on today,” Coeur d’Alene coach Jeff Moffat said. “But the kids competed really well. We had a lot of guys winning a lot of matches in the consolation rounds.”

Coeur d'Alene fire department bond could top $16M

Survey to gauge community support may go out soon

If approved, the survey will launch on Jan. 13. As part of the survey, it is recommended it include a proposed general bond amount that would be needed to replace apparatus and update existing facilities for the future of your Fire Department.

Chinese mystery snails continue to plague Post Falls pond

POST FALLS — Two years after forcing the closure of Falls Park Pond, invasive Chinese mystery snails remain a persistent problem for local officials.

Idaho lawmakers likely to clash over school choice, grocery tax repeal in 2025 session

School choice and tax cuts are some major topics expected to come back to the Statehouse this year.

Speakers, participants wanted for North Idaho Women and Their Money Conference

Speakers, participants wanted for North Idaho Women and Their Money Conference

From homemakers to breadwinners and from high school seniors to senior citizens, women who work or reside in North Idaho are invited to increase their financial confidence and fiscal management skills during a free conference coming up in June.

The Big Chill: How cold stratification boosts seed germination

The transformation of a tiny seed into a thriving plant is nothing short of miraculous. Indeed, Nature holds the secrets to perfect timing, ensuring that a seed not only germinates but does so precisely when conditions are right for its survival.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Why are nomadic people so nervous?

Court rules on exemptions in drag defamation case

The Post Falls drag performer who won a defamation lawsuit against a local blogger may soon begin collecting the $1.1 million judgement.

The 2024 T-Dub Awards

Don’t listen to the Golden Globes, ignore the American Film Institute and forget about the Academy Awards. The only essential movie awards come courtesy of the Coeur d’Alene Press. The annual T-Dub Awards are here to celebrate the movies of 2024.

MY TURN: A respectful response to Bible reading in public schools

The recent letter advocating for reintroducing Bible reading in public schools raises important questions about morality, education, and religious freedom. While I respect the author’s deep regard for the Bible, I believe it’s equally important to consider the constitutional and societal implications of school-sponsored religious practices in a diverse and pluralistic society.

The Exhausted Dad: The logistics of bicycle giving

The bicycle: A true classic of Christmas gift giving.

FAST FIVE Inland Mama's Amy Plass is here for families

Meet Amy Plass, a small business owner, a mom to four and a lover of independent retail.

Joanna Sharon, 94

Joanna Jean Sharon, age 94, of Helen, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 30, 2024. Born on March 5, 1930, in Neosho, Missouri,

William Ira Guy, 79

William Ira Guy, affectionately known as "Skip," was born on September 12, 1945, in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He passed away peacefully on December 26, 2024, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho,

Gwennith Patterson, 86

Gwennith Lynne (Kleinberg) Patterson, 86, died Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, at her home in Post Falls, Idaho. Gwen was born in Wynot, Nebraska, on February 9, 1938.

Post Falls Christmas tree pickup scheduled

Post Falls sanitation staff will be providing Christmas tree pick up for Post Falls residents on Saturday, Jan. 25.

Sweet 16 running shoes not included in decluttering phase

There is one area where I struggle the most when it comes to cleaning house, one area I anguish over each time I try to surrender just a few of them: Running shoes.

School and Senior Meals

School and Senior Meals: Jan. 6-10

Karen M. Robinson, 85

Karen M. Robinson was born on April 11, 1939, in Fargo, North Dakota, and was looking forward to joining her husband, Darrel and daughter, Diane, in her final heavenly home. She got the desire of her heart on December 28, 2024.

Marilyn Elaine Turner, 82

Marilyn Turner, surrounded by her loved ones, peacefully passed away on Saturday, December 28, 2024. Born on February 13, 1942, in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Legals for January, 4 2025

One injured in gas station shooting

Police are investigating a gas station shooting that injured one person Friday.

Soldier who died in Las Vegas explosion left note saying it was to be a wakeup for country's ills

A highly decorated Army soldier who died in an explosion of a Tesla Cybertruck at the Trump hotel in Las Vegas left a note saying it was stunt to serve as “wakeup call” for the country’s ills, investigators said Friday.

Republican Mike Johnson reelected House speaker in dramatic floor vote

Republican Mike Johnson won reelection to the House speakership on a first ballot Friday, pushing past GOP hard-right holdouts and buoyed with a nod of support from President-elect Donald Trump.

Man accused of causing fatal November crash in Bonner County granted house arrest

The man accused of causing the November crash on US95 that killed five-year-old Amelia Carollo has been granted house arrest.

Trains halted, FBI involved: Explosive device found on train car in Treasure Valley

Officers arriving at the scene just before 6 p.m. found fresh footprints leading to a train car that had a “suspected undetonated improvised explosive device,” also known as an IED, a Payette Police Department news release said.

Surgeon General calls for new label on drinks to warn Americans of alcohol's cancer risk

Bottles of beer, wine and liquor already carry warning labels that say pregnant women should not drink and that alcohol consumption can impair someone's ability to drive a car. But Murthy's proposed label would go even further, raising awareness about the risk for cancer, too.

A horrifying accident has Hawaii officials pleading for an end to amateur fireworks shows

Efforts to crack down on contraband fireworks have had limited effect. In 2023, lawmakers created an illegal fireworks task force. Based on the ease with which it seized fireworks, including three shipping containers in its first few months in operation, the state Department of Law Enforcement concluded illegal fireworks are likely smuggled into Hawaii on a daily basis.

Biden blocks Nippon Steel's proposed deal to acquire US Steel

Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel blasted the decision, saying in a joint statement that Biden's blocking the deal “reflects a clear violation of due process and the law” in a process it said was “manipulated” to advance Biden’s political agenda.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Keeping the ride going for the time being

The first thing you learn in this biz is simple. Never bury the lede.

PREP ROUNDUP: Coeur d'Alene gets going, runs through Rocky Mountain

Coeur d'Alene, Timberlake to compete at Rollie Lane Invitational starting today at Ford Idaho Center in Nampa.

NIC WRESTLING: Cardinal take Battle in the Gem State dual

NIC competes in the NJCAA Coaches Duals in Miami, Okla., next Friday and Saturday on the campus of Northeastern Oklahoma A&M.

Idaho football: Fendall named special teams coordinator

Fendall comes to Idaho from NCAA Division III powerhouse Linfield of McMinnville, Ore., where he just completed in his second season of his second stint as the defensive backs coach and special teams coordinator for the Wildcats.

ACLU files emergency motion with Idaho Supreme Court over public defense reform

Idaho’s new public defense system is “headed for a disaster” unless the Idaho Supreme Court intervenes, the American Civil Liberties Union of Idaho said in new court filings.

North Idaho's drought drowning in wet weather

Snowpack expected to remain solid

Snowpack statewide is 45% of the median peak snowpack that is expected around April 1. As a rule of thumb, on Jan. 1 IDWR expects 40% of the median peak, Feb. 1 60% of the median peak on Feb. 1, 80% on March 1, and 100% of the median peak snowpack on April 1. “So far across the states everybod

Bunker restart delayed, but momentum continues

Mine combats rising costs

The finish line for the anticipated restart of the Bunker Hill Mine is still clearly in sight, but a few setbacks have delayed the previously forecasted return to production. The delay is a minor inconvenience compared to the amount of positive momentum the mine is experiencing.

Classical Christian third graders name 2024-2025 winter storms

Classical Christian third graders name 2024-2025 winter storms

If winter storms bear down on Coeur d'Alene this season, their names are already waiting for them: Phantom, Eagle, Apache, Hornet, Warthog, Falcon, Blackbird, Mustang, Tanker and Black Hawk.

Idaho courts seek major pay raise to address judicial shortage

Pay is currently 48th lowest in the nation

BOISE — Idaho's judiciary is requesting a significant overhaul of judicial compensation, including a 30% pay increase, as the state grapples with recruiting and retaining judges.

Winter classes begin next week at Music Conservatory of Coeur d'Alene

Winter classes begin next week at Music Conservatory of Coeur d'Alene

For those who wish to pick up new musical skills or enhance their vocal abilities, the Music Conservatory of Coeur d'Alene has options for all ages this winter semester. Classes begin Monday and will run through March 28.

Free access at Farragut State Park on Saturday

Farragut State Park's Visitor Center is having their annual Free Winter Access Day this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and jail bookings for Shoshone County Sheriff's Office.

Mary Ann Ward, 77

Mary Ann Ward, 77, a beloved wife and stepmother, passed away on December 22, 2024. She was the youngest of three siblings born to her late parents, Vernon and Margaret (Mayer) Milholland. Mary was born on August 26, 1947, in Vancouver, Washington

MY TURN: Idahoans deserve representative government

The people who craft the laws that impact our lives should represent more than just 24 percent of Idaho voters.

Fire destroys Athol shop

An exploding battery may have contributed to a Tuesday fire that destroyed an Athol area shop.

Schweitzer Mountain snowboarder's death ruled accidental

The death of a California man who died Monday at Schweitzer has been ruled an accident, according to Bonner County Coroner Robert Beers.

OPINION: Immigration sanity

America is a land of immigrants, which isn’t unique as this can be said about virtually every nation. Unless your ZIP Code is The Garden of Eden, we are all either immigrants or descended from immigrants. Beginning with the first humans, we have roamed the entire planet and now, facilitated by our technology, occupy every environment. Archeologists tell us there is trace evidence of humans in North America 30,000 years ago during the middle of the last Ice Age when sea levels were 400 feet lower than today and New York was under a mile thick layer of ice.

Stephen J. Nemec, 45

Stephen Joseph Nemec was born at Deaconess Hospital in Spokane, Washington, on May 21, 1979, to Eleanor Downs (O’Neal) and Neil Lewis Nemec.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Why do birds fly south in the winter?

Man gets supervised probation after attempted kidnapping, mental health crisis

A man who pleaded guilty to trying to kidnap a girl during a mental health crisis will receive treatment while on supervised probation.

Comedian K-von coming Jan. 11 to Merlin's Comedy Club

Merlin's Comedy Club will host its first big show of the year with comedian Kevan "K-von" Moezzi at 7 p.m. Jan. 11 at the Midge and Pepper Smock Family Theatre at the Kroc, 1765 W. Golf Course Road, Coeur d'Alene.

First baby at Kootenai Health in 2025

First baby of 2025

Weekend TV/Radio highlights

Television, radio and streaming highlights for upcoming weekend.

Beverly 'Bev' Baslington, 87

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Beverly “Bev” Baslington, 87, on December 30, 2024 at Kootenai Health in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, surrounded by her loving family. Bev was born on June 21, 1937 in Worley, Idaho to her parents, Cecil and Bernice (Rew) Dobler.

Richard (Dick) Varner, 97

Richard (Dick) Varner, 97, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on December 28, 2024. Born on June 18, 1927, in Lewiston, Montana, to the late Abbigail Howard and David F Varner.

FIREWORKS: Enough is enough

What is it with you subhumans in this area of Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls and your obsession with fireworks? Every time we turn around there is some simi-conscious half wit lighting off fireworks while drool runs down their mouths dripping onto Coors light. You dim bulbs obviously don’t care about others that may be disturbed by this behavior. I’m sure that there are veterans in your community that suffer from PTSD that don’t want to hear explosions all the time. Some people’s pets are disturbed by it, and it is a general disregard for others around you. A person’s house was literally burnt down in Hayden last year because of your pure unenlightened acts of dumb.

PRESS: Community values on display

My wife and I recently moved to Hayden to be close to family and friends. In the short amount of time we have been here we are impressed with the empathizes on strong family, community and political values that are reflected in The Press.

Dorothy Gene Vermillion Judd, 91

Dorothy Gene Vermillion Judd, 91

OPINION: Idaho lawmakers should make it easier for citizens to participate during the session

Ready or not Idaho’s 2025 Legislative Session starts on January 6. Many important policies will be considered ranging from education choice to tax reform. There will also likely be a surprise or two. It is of paramount importance for Idahoans to have the ability to be actively involved and heard by their elected officials during this lawmaking process. Unfortunately, it is currently more difficult than it should be for this to occur.

EDITORIAL: Be cool, the snowplows will come

We believe our cities, districts and others responsible for plowing snow will be working hard and doing their best so we can travel safety.

Hayden Cinema movie times

Hayden Cinema

Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Fundraiser set for Saturday

Panhandle Nordic Club's yearly Best Hand Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Fundraiser is set for this Saturday.

Common Ground Gospel Choir rehearsals begin Monday

Rehearsals for the Common Ground Gospel Choir start at 5 p.m. Monday.

COLUMN RESPONSE: Democrats lost

“So, brace yourselves, and resolve now to be part of the solution.”

Man gets prison for child sexual abuse

A man who pleaded guilty to sexually abusing a child will spend up to 25 years in prison.

Coeur d'Alene police: Only 2 DUIs New Year's Eve/Day

Hagar said they made many traffic stops for violations such as running a red light, speeding and driving without headlights on, but only two turned into a DUI.

Corey Michael Cook, 27

Corey Michael Cook, 27, passed away unexpectedly on December 6th, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nev. Born December 24, 1996, to Jamee Leann Ursillo in Coeur D’Alene, Idaho,

Legals for January, 3 2025

FBI says driver in New Orleans rampage acted alone and was '100%' inspired by Islamic State group

The Army veteran who drove a pickup truck into a crowd of New Year’s revelers in New Orleans acted alone, the FBI said Thursday, reversing its position from a day earlier that he likely worked with others in the deadly attack that officials said was inspired by the Islamic State group.

'Dinosaur highway' tracks dating back 166 million years are discovered in England

Four of the sets of tracks that make up the so-called highway show paths taken by gigantic, long-necked, herbivores called sauropods, thought to be Cetiosaurus, a dinosaur that grew to nearly 60 feet (18 meters) in length. A fifth set belonged to the Megalosaurus, a ferocious 9-meter predator that left a distinctive triple-claw print and was the first dinosaur to be scientifically named two centuries ago.

A drop in groundwater could mean big trouble for a tiny snail as Nevada lithium project presses on

Now, Western Watersheds Project and the group known as People of Red Mountain argue in a notice of intent to sue that the government and Canada-based Lithium Americas are failing to live up to promises to adequately monitor groundwater impacts.

Tesla sales dropped 1.1% in 2024, its first annual decline in a dozen years

Tesla posted its first annual sales drop in more than a dozen years Thursday, undercutting a stock that has soared since Donald Trump’s victory on optimism Elon Musk’s close relationship to the president-elect will help the company.

Idaho Supreme Court must intervene in new, ‘disastrous’ public defense reform, ACLU says

The American Civil Liberties Union of Idaho has filed an emergency motion calling on the Idaho Supreme Court to intervene in the state’s new public defense system, which the ACLU called a “disastrous step backward.”

Man shot himself in head before Cybertruck exploded outside Trump's Las Vegas hotel, officials say

The highly decorated Army soldier inside the Tesla Cybertruck that burst into flames outside President-elect Donald Trump’s Las Vegas hotel shot himself in the head before the explosion and likely planned to cause more damage but the explosive was rudimentary and the steel-sided vehicle absorbed much of the force, officials said Thursday.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: Someday for Boise State, the slipper will need to be shed

Little Boise State won just by crashing the “big boy” 12-team College Football Playoff, they say. Any result — shy of, say, a 48-3 beatdown — would have been gravy. “Nobody gave us a chance,” the Boise party line goes. Nobody?

Idaho football: Vandals add Roberts, Decoud to coaching staff

On Tuesday, Ford named Lake City High product Loren Endsley as run game coordinator and offensive line coach, and Cort Dennison as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach.

Bowling scores: Jan. 2, 2025

Scores from area leagues.

Baby, it's cold in Lake Coeur d'Alene

Polar Bear Plungers enjoy annual dip to start the new year

People began arriving around 11 a.m. to stake their spot on the beach on a 32-degree morning. The water was calm, even enticing, and many accepted the invitation. Bennett brought long his usually polar bear clock with the banner that read, “I Can Polar Bear It.” Anoher teddy bear sat in the “Polar Bear Express” wagon.

Redman family donates $200K to Timberlake sports facility project

Redman family donates $200K to Timberlake sports facility project

A local family with a deep love for Timberlake High School and the Lakeland Joint School District has given a large gift to a project that will be a boon to young athletes and community members in the Lakeland area for generations to come.

A snowy slog into the new year

Tesh 5K Fun Run turns out to be exactly that

The field included some in costumes, a few serious runners, seniors holding hands and many with furry friends. And there were families like Ben and Allie Goheen who packed their three sons, Cole, Silas and Wyatt, in two strollers and pushed them along.

Special Olympics plunge on Feb. 8

We encourage local businesses and entrepreneurs to join us by forming teams to raise funds for this worthy cause. Whether you’re ready to take the plunge or prefer to support from the sidelines, your participation will make a difference!

Dalton Gardens eyes City Hall work

Just before the clock ran out with the ringing in of the new year, Dalton Gardens City Council held a special meeting Monday to earmark ARPA funds before the end of the year to keep them in play. In order to still be eligible for city infrastructure needs between now and 2026, they needed to be committed to specific project by Dec. 31, 2024.

MY TURN: A different view of the Democrats' plan

Mr. Koch asks "What `is the Democrats plan.'" Those of us who only listen to what they say have a radically different view from those of us who watch what they actually do.

Movers & Shakers

Verdis President Sandy Young has been nominated for the Idaho Small Business Person of the Year award.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

In 2025, dating is just like Wi-Fi

Post Falls man sentenced for stalking, voyeurism

A man who pleaded guilty to stalking his ex and sharing intimate photos of her will spend up to four years in prison.

A long walk, but sadly, no creepers

A common raven, for example, is a CORA, while a black-capped chickadee is a BCCH. It’s not as simple as it sounds, however. For example, I also saw a three toed woodpecker, so I wrote down TTWP, but it turns out it’s an American Three Toed Woodpecker, so it should have been ATTW.

Kids watch balloons drop at the Hayden 'Noon Year's Eve' celebration

For the little ones too young to make it to the ball drop on New Year’s Eve, Hayden Library had a delightful alternative to help kids celebrate the holiday.

Infant attacked and injured in his home by a raccoon

Fish and Game took possession of the raccoon carcass and coordinated with staff from South Central Public Health District to get the raccoon tested for rabies. Fish and Game staff transported the carcass to Boise for testing by the Idaho Bureau of Laboratories.

Avalanche partially buries skier in popular backcountry area near Whitefish Mountain Resort

The slope fractured above him before the partner dropped in, causing a wall of snow hit the skier and pin him against a tree. Both his skis were knocked off and he dogpaddled to stay above the moving snow. He was buried waist deep when the slide stopped but was not injured.

Legals for January, 2 2025

Driver expressed desire to kill before ramming New Orleans revelers, Biden says; 15 dead in attack

The FBI identified the driver as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, a U.S. citizen and Army veteran from Texas and said it is working to determine Jabbar's potential associations and affiliations with terrorist organizations.

Firefighters extinguish locomotive blaze

Firefighters responded to the intersection of Diagonal Road and Massif for a report of a BNSF locomotive on fire. Engine 61 arrived to find fire coming from the engine compartment of the locomotive. Crews were able to extinguish the fire in just over an hour, according to the Timberlake Fire Protection District.

Psychedelic therapy begins in Colorado, causing tension between conservatives and veterans

Colorado joined Oregon in legalizing psilocybin therapy, though the drug remains illegal in most other states and federally. Over the last year, a growing number of Oregon cities have voted to ban psilocybin. While Colorado metros cannot ban the treatment under state law, several conservative cities have worked to preemptively restrict what are known as “healing centers.”

A fireworks explosion in the Honolulu area has killed 3 people and injured at least 20

The accident occurred just before midnight outside a home, the Honolulu Fire Department said in a statement. The neighborhood is near Honolulu's international airport and a joint U.S. Air Force and Navy base and a little more than 2 miles east of the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial, which honors sailors who died in the attack on Pearl Harbor that drew the U.S. into World War II.

Pope calls for commitment to protect life as he doubles down on abortion in New Year's Day message

In recent years, the Argentine Jesuit has been speaking out more emphatically about abortion than he did at the start of his pontificate. After two doctrinaire popes, Francis complained in the first months of his papacy in 2013 that the church had become obsessed by “small-minded rules” about hot-button issues such as abortion.

Gianforte, Montana sue Yellowstone National Park over its bison management plan

New case argues park officials have intentionally cut Montana out of management plans or ignored the park’s own science in an effort to boost bison numbers

Idaho football: Former T-Wolf Endsley, Dennison added to Vandal staff

New Idaho run game coordinator and offensive line coach Loren Endsley played at Lake City High.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Zach Teal, Lakeland High School

Lakeland High School sophomore wrestler Zach Teal is this week's Knudtsen Chevrolet Press Athlete of the Week.

Coeur d'Alene councilors, mayor eye new year

Coeur d'Alene city Council members take a look ahead

Post Falls city councilors talk projects, challenges

Local elected officials in Post Falls share their thoughts on upcoming projects and challenges in the new year.

Kootenai County commissioners offer insights

Commissioners outline priorities for 2025

Hayden Mayor Alan Davis looks to 2025

There’s a lot in store for the City in Hayden in 2025, and Mayor Alan Davis is looking to meet it all head-on.

The Press Year in Photos

Year in Photos

Stephen J. Nemec, 45

Stephen Joseph Nemec was born at Deaconess Hospital in Spokane, Washington, on May 21, 1979, to Eleanor Downs (O’Neal) and Neil Lewis Nemec.

Education leaders share thoughts on road ahead

A new year means new opportunities, new challenges and new experiences ahead for students, staff and administrators in Kootenai County's largest school districts.

Clarence L. 'Tek' Haugen, 93

Sept. 7, 1931 — Nov. 29, 2024

Clarence L Haugen - September 7, 1931 – November 29, 2024

Sunset colors skies over Hayden Lake

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OPINION: Looking forward to the New Year

What might America encounter in 2025? Strange social media pronouncements from the President-Elect give us good reason to wonder about what’s to come.

Douglas David Hochberger, 84

Douglas David Hochberger peacefully went to his heavenly home on December 10, 2024. He was born on November 2, 1940, in Sumner, Iowa, to David and Joyce (Dawson) Hochberger and was the youngest of four siblings.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

An optimist stays up until midnight to see the new year in.

Kenneth H. Gonser, 88

Kenneth Henry Gonser, born to Henry and Beatrice in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, in 1936, went to be with our Lord on November 14, 2024.

First day of New Year on the menu

New Year's Day, aka the day we enjoy a pot of black-eyed peas and ham, with sides of greens and cornbread at our house. Southern tradition promises that the dish brings good luck, health and prosperity.

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Reset Your Health: Detox season begins

I love this time of year! Time to get back on track from a season of indulgences, and, if we’re honest with ourselves, a year or so of indulgences in things ‘we know better’ than to partake of. The New Year brings an opportunity to start with a clean slate. It gives us an opportunity to re-evaluate what is of priority. Since we only get one body for our lifetime, many people choose their health as one of their priorities and try again to keep it as a priority.

Dorothy Mearl (Dottie) Meyer, 89

Dorothy Mearl (Dottie) Meyer, 89, of Coeur d’Alene, died peacefully in her sleep at Schneidmiller Hospice House in Coeur d’Alene on Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024, surrounded by her six living children. Dorothy was born March 8, 1935, in Ivanhoe, Texas, to Amos Ray and Evie Elizabeth Janeway,

GOVERNMENT: Oversight is needed

The letter against DOGE, an over site position on the largest business in the United States of America, DOGE will be run by Musk and Ramaswamy two of the largest successful business owners in the USA who are donating their time and expertise to remove a lot of government waste. George Washington gave us the first example by running for only two terms not wanting to establish a monarch.

Guardianship & Conservatorship Proceedings in North Idaho

In Idaho, guardianship and conservatorship proceedings provide legal mechanisms to protect vulnerable individuals who cannot fully care for themselves or manage their affairs. While these two legal arrangements share some similarities, they serve distinct purposes and follow different procedural requirements under Idaho law.

GIVERS: Stunt was in bad taste

Maybe I am way off but the fake disability wheelchair and homeless people stunt at WINCO by Tim Remington and John Padula of Altar Church was offensive to me. People who give to the Kettle or the homeless or a deserving charity do NOT expect to be tricked or rewarded. This whole stunt is repulsive parading as something they are not. I have had three homeless females living in their cars near the Kroc. Leaving an anonymous card with money on a windshield is selfless. Keeping an eye on them by the neighbors and Kroc personnel is selfless.

OPINION: Idahoans should be alarmed by the scarcity of trial court candidates

Very few well-qualified lawyers have applied for Idaho district court positions in recent years. District courts handle trials of felony cases, as well as all types of civil cases affecting the lives and property of individuals and businesses. Putting these disputes in the hands of judges without substantial experience is risky business.