Ellington

Idaho Gov. Brad Little vetoes bill to ban medical requirements in business, schools, government

It’s the first bill the governor has vetoed this legislative session

The bill would’ve also extended to schools in Idaho — private or public — and colleges, universities and trade schools, blocking them from requiring medical interventions for school attendance, employment, or entrance into campus or school buildings.

Kempthorne diagnosed with cancer

This news is a profound shock to family, friends, and those who have worked closely with Kempthorne.

Monday TV/Radio highlights

Television, radio highlights for Monday, March 31

Reversal: Post Falls students pitch the jobs they want

Eye contact, a firm handshake and confident conversation. Seniors pitched their passion for future careers such as firefighting, teaching software engineering and social work to community volunteers Wednesday at the reverse job fair.

Coeur d'Alene High senior focuses project on money matters

Coeur d'Alene High senior focuses project on money matters

When Coeur d'Alene High School senior Aniston Ewing was a little girl, she went to run errands with her grandfather. “He had to fill up his tank of gas and by the end of it, he had this little notebook," she said. "I was curious; I didn’t know what he was doing so I asked him.” Her grandfather was doing some good old-fashioned budget balancing.

Best night sky events for April

Timing is everything when everything is moving. At one o’clock this afternoon the moon was right in the middle of the Pleaides star cluster, but by the time we can see it, at 8:00 P.M. the moon has moved 7 degrees away from the Pleaides in just 8 hours! After dark, look westward for the Pleaides to the lower right of the moon. Image is courtesy of John Taylor and Stellarium. Insert image Moon M45.jpg here.

A new vent found in Yellowstone

We know that a supervolcano, Yellowstone, is located practically in our backyard. The region is constantly going through geological changes, as there was a recent discovery of a new volcanic vent in August 2024.

Route changes coming at interchange

Starting next week, drivers traveling northbound on SH-41 wishing to access westbound I-90 will be detoured north to 16th Avenue, where they will make a U-turn and then return south along the highway until they merge onto the new westbound temporary on-ramp.

Audition applications for Hayden's Got Talent now available

Audition applications for Hayden's Got Talent, which is set for Saturday, July 26th as part of the Hayden Days festivities, are now available.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

People are named after April and May but why not March?

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: Manzo, Casey, LMU and Circling Raven

“Manzardo may be flying under the radar. Like he’s a bit of a secret,” writes Bernie Pleskoff, a former major league baseball scout.

PREP ROUNDUP: Post Falls, Lewiston split in IEL baseball

“Our bats came alive, and we had some timely hits,” Post Falls coach Kurt Reese said. “We made some plays and put together close to a complete game in that first game. We had some really solid hits.”

NIC SOFTBALL: Cardinals, Salt Lake pushed back

Saturday's Scenic West Athletic Conference softball doubleheader between North Idaho College and No. 16 Salt Lake was postponed due to weather and rescheduled for today at Norma Carr Field.

Veterans, DAR commemorate 50th anniversary of Vietnam War

Vietnam veteran Stan Inzer has many stories from his time serving overseas, and the nightmares will never fully fade.

Nurse, family hope for healing after brain tumor removed

As a nurse, Coeur d’Alene resident Rachel Cieply-Peters has spent 10 years of her career tending to vulnerable patients. She’s impacted hundreds of families and saved newborns through her work at the Neonatal ICU and Pediatric Cardiology centers.

Legislators talk chemtrails at town hall in Coeur d'Alene

About 500 attend orderly program at church

Brazil was one of about 500 people who attended the town hall that went more than two hours at Candlelight Christian Fellowship with 10 legislators on hand. It was orderly and respectful, with no outbursts and plenty of security present. Discussions covered the usual subjects including property taxes, education, individual rights, medical ethics, parental rights, DEI restrictions and decreasing the size of government.

Athol's Iron Pizza Co. under new ownership

The new leadership team at Iron Pizza Co. have big plans for the future of the pizza joint under the new mantra, ‘local and social.’

HUCKLEBERRIES: Gone too soon, but won't be forgotten

Jenny Stokes was such a tough Coeur d’Alene High goalkeeper that she once lobbied to stay in a game after suffering a broken nose diving for a ball.

Community Thanks

See who's thankful!

Celebrate National Humor Month!

It's said laughter is the best medicine, and I heartily agree. How many times has a good laugh — or at least a good story — rescued a difficult situation? April is National Humor Month, appropriately starting with April Fools' Day. While a harmless prank is a fun way to lighten things up among friends, it's important to keep one's sense of humor alive when things get tense at work. I'm sharing some of my favorite business-oriented stories to inspire you to lighten up uncomfortable situations. For example, determined people possess the stamina and courage to pursue their ambitions despite criticism, ridicule or unfavorable circumstances. In fact, discouragement usually spurs us on to greater things. And a sense of humor never hurts.

EDITORIAL: Easing the child care burden

In Kootenai County, the struggle of working families is exacerbated by the astronomical cost of child care. So far this year, local and state leaders have taken modest but meaningful steps to address this issue, offering a glimmer of hope for parents caught between work responsibilities and the prohibitive expenses of raising children.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Why do bees have sticky hair?

I-90 eastbound exit at Cataldo to close for two weeks

On Monday, the Interstate 90 eastbound exit at Cataldo near milepost 40 will close for approximately two weeks as crews complete paving work ahead of an upcoming traffic shift in April.

REDMAN: Doesn’t listen to constituents

REDMAN: Doesn’t listen to constituents

CARTOON: Response to March 26 edition

CARTOON: Response to March 26 edition

Do life insurance proceeds have to pay an estate's debts?

A common questions we hear from clients involves the fate of life insurance proceeds after someone passes away. Specifically, many Idahoans want to know: "Do life insurance proceeds have to be used to pay the debts of the deceased?" This is an important question with significant implications for estate planning.

SOCIAL SECURITY: Not a Ponzi scheme

SOCIAL SECURITY: Not a Ponzi scheme

CARTOON: Response to March 26 edition

CARTOON: Response to March 26 edition

KNOLL: Letter speaks for many of us

KNOLL: Letter speaks for many of us

Myanmar quake death toll rises to 1,644 as resistance movement announces partial ceasefire

A unilateral partial ceasefire to facilitate earthquake relief efforts was announced on Saturday by Myanmar’s shadow National Unity Government, which coordinates the popular struggle against the ruling military. The country's death toll from the disaster soared to 1,644.

Dozens of experts revealed for Kohberger murder trial — from forensic experts to Amazon worker

Bryan Kohberger’s attorneys are again pushing back against the prosecution for allegedly providing the defense with minimal expert witness disclosures, calling them, for the most part, “abysmal,” according to the latest drop of court filings in the 30-year-old’s capital murder case.

THE FRONT ROW with JASON ELLIOTT: A way to keep the cash coming

Those games in Mullan started as a way to raise money for their athletic programs, and it’s worked out pretty well.

PREP ROUNDUP: Charter hurdler Meine wins two at Lewiston

Results from Friday's prep track and field, baseball and tennis contests.

Northwest Notes March 29, 2025

Lewis-Clark State women's basketball coach Caelyn Orlandi, a Coeur d'Alene High graduate, was named to the WBCA Thirty Under 30 class of 2024-25.

NIC SOFTBALL: Cardinals drop two to No. 16 Salt Lake

The teams meet again today in Taylorsville.

Hayden veteran reflects on 'The last hurrah'

Vietnam veteran reflects on 'Operation Frequent Wind'

Amos is particularly proud that National Vietnam War Veterans Day, signed into law by President Donald Trump in 2017, is today, March 29. It leads him to reflect on time with the Marine Corps nearly 50 years ago . It was in 1975, from April 18 to May 13, Amos was the Commanding Officer, Detachment Tango, Amphibious Evacuation Security Force, Third Marine Division, in connection with what was called “Operation Frequent Wind.”

Lakes principal, two teachers honored with district awards

Lakes principal, two teachers honored with district awards

It's been said that good things come in threes. For Lakes Middle School, that idiom proved to be true Thursday as teachers Citali Sanchez Zuniga and Michelle Biediger and Principal Jeff Bengtson were honored by the Coeur d'Alene School District for their outstanding work as educators and leaders. The announcements were made during a lively assembly in the gym, where colorful confetti and the excited hollers and applause of students filled the air.

11-year-old makes birthday donation to Post Falls American Legion post

11-year-old makes birthday donation to Post Falls American Legion post

Instead of gifts for his 11th birthday, Jacob Priddy requested money — not to keep for himself, but to donate to American Legion Post 143.

Coeur d'Alene council considers step that would lead to more sidewalks

The amendments will remove the exceptions and will require developers/owners to construct sidewalks in the identified Priority Corridors "regardless of the distance to the nearest sidewalk or any other exemption."

Idaho Senate panel sends anti-DEI in higher ed bill to floor

A Senate committee on Friday advanced a bill with sweeping bans on requiring or incentivizing public university and college courses or training related to “DEI,” which stands for diversity, equity and inclusion.

Joshua Bungen, 50

Joshua Bungen, 50

Robert Carl Mertens, 94

Robert Carl Mertens passed away peacefully on March 22, 2025. He was born in San Francisco, California on August 3, 1930 to Carl and Myra Mertens, and welcomed by big sister, Shirley.

Opening day and days on the diamond

It marked the time when all the kids in our neighborhood, and there were a lot, began our nightly rituals of gathering for games on Fridays and Saturdays. Come summer, we would stay out until well after dark, pitching, batting, running and shouting under the streetlights just outside of our homes until a neighbor would holler at us to quiet down and get to bed.

School and Senior Meals

School and Senior Meals: March 31 - April 4

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Why did the gardener plant a light bulb?

Denise Marie Nix (Pederson), 64

Denise Marie Nix (Pederson) was born February 6, 1961, to Donald and Dianne (Kahn) Batalia in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. She grew up there and graduated from St. Maries High School. Following, she moved to Minnetonka, Minnesota, where she raised her children, Shawn and Kaylin.

If you asked a critic: Disney remakes and box office bombs

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

Government Way work to begin Monday

Drivers should expect delays starting Monday as planned signal and pedestrian improvements at the Government Way and Prairie Avenue intersection get underway.

Sorensen team wins district Battle of the Books

Coeur d'Alene School District elementary librarians held their third annual Idaho Battle of the Books district tournament Tuesday evening.

FAST FIVE: Mom of six Doree Handford knows you can't pour from an empty cup

Meet Doree Handford, a wife and a devoted mother of six who has spent the past two decades walking alongside families as they step into the world of parenthood. Through her work as a childbirth educator, doula and unwavering friend, Doree has supported countless parents during one of the most transformative times of their lives. Her passion for building strong families and supporting overwhelmed parents has driven her to create meaningful community programs, including A Parent’s Paradise Charities and the beloved Coeur d'Alene Mom Prom event.

The Exhausted Dad: Personal care secondary to doggie hygiene

Since my kids didn’t have a family pet for nearly a decade, they’ve accumulated the need to smother our new dog with love, affection and unnecessary grooming.

My Turn: Tribute to the late attorney Raymond 'Ray' Givens

I became an expert witness for Ray drawing 28 reapportionment plans. During the two years of litigation known as “Hellar v. Cenarrusa I, II,III, there were five state court decisions (Idaho First District Court and Idaho State Supreme Court) and two Federal court decisions including one procedural issue from the U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice.

Legals for March, 29 2025

Child injured in hit-and-run collision in Post Falls

Post Falls Police responded to a hit-and-run collision at the intersection of Spokane St. and 11th Ave. around 3:10 p.m. Thursday. A vehicle struck an 11-year-old child who was in the crosswalk. The child sustained minor injuries in the collision.

Powerful quake rocks Myanmar and Thailand and kills more than 150 people

A powerful earthquake rocked Myanmar and neighboring Thailand on Friday, destroying buildings, bridges and a monastery. At least 144 people were killed in Myanmar, where photos and video from two hard-hit cities showed extensive damage. At least 10 died in the Thai capital, where a high-rise under construction collapsed.

Utah becomes the first state to ban fluoride in public drinking water

Utah has become the first state to ban fluoride in public drinking water, over opposition from dentists and national health organizations who warn the move will lead to medical problems and disproportionately affect low-income communities.

Have a career day, Kyle: Former Lake City High star Manzardo has three hits and four RBIs, helping Guardians past Royals

“You want to prove that you can help,” the 24-year-old designated hitter said. “I’ve hit lefties my whole life. I’m not going to tell you that I’m better against left-handed pitchers or anything, but I always hit them growing up. So, I’m excited for this year, excited to get those opportunities.”

PREP BASEBALL: Coeur d'Alene walks off in opener, earns sweep of Sandpoint

Coeur d'Alene, Lake City sweep in home doubleheaders on Thursday.

PREP SOFTBALL: Lake City goes deep to finish sweep of Moscow

Results from Thursday's prep slate.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: If you're going to be 'fearless,' at least be fair

I’ve never forgotten “The Fearless Spectator,” and I’ve taken two lessons from it. First, unless you know something for a FACT, stay away from making things personal. That one covers a huge chunk of ground, and I believe the best way to judge what you’re about to put into print is some common sense. If you’re being lighthearted or making a comical reference, is it clear you’re joking? Whatever you write, would a neutral reader think it’s fair?

Weekend TV/Radio highlights

Television, radio and streaming highlights for upcoming weekend

Moody's upgrades North Idaho College's bond rating

Moody's Ratings has upgraded North Idaho College’s outlook to stable from negative and announced Baa1 issuer and revenue bond ratings for the college. The report from Moody’s noted that NIC had $8 million in total debt outstanding as of June 30. NIC President Nick Swayne said he is encouraged to see news of the fiscal policies of the new board have already spread beyond North Idaho.

Commission OKs townhouse design in Coeur d'Alene

57-unit project would overlook Spokane River

The townhouse project overlooking the Spokane River would go on a three-acre strip of vacant property on the south side of Lacrosse Avenue and west of Northwest Boulevard. It includes the abandoned right-of-way of the Spokane International Railroad. It is being proposed by Blue Fern Development based in Redmond, Wash., which is the same company with townhouse plans for the Roosevelt Inn property.

Grocery Outlet holds grand opening of Post Falls location

Marked with a ribbon cutting to ‘unlock the savings,’ Grocery Outlet at Poleline Ave. and HWY 41 officially opened its doors Thursday morning.

ILED graduation highlights program's strengths

A Silver Valley woman had her charges dismissed as Shoshone County celebrated its first ILED graduate on Monday at the Shoshone County Courthouse.

I-90 project targets stretch between Wolf Lodge, Fourth of July Pass

The Idaho Transportation Department is set to begin resurfacing an 8-mile stretch of I-90 between Wolf Lodge and Fourth of July Pass next week.

Downtown Coeur d'Alene's Winefest will be April 5

Wine enthusiasts and friends are invited to discover a wave of flavors at Downtown Coeur d’Alene’s Winefest from 2-6 p.m. April 5.

MOVING HISTORY FORWARD: Transitions: From Christenson to Schuler and NIJC to NIC

On March 12, 1968, Perry Christianson resigned as the junior college’s fourth president effective Sept. 1. His resignation letter to the Board of Trustees gave no details about his retirement plans. Still, based on statements made before his decision, it is believed that he had considered this move for at least a year before he resigned.

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Two men are robbing a liquor store.

Chamber Murder Mystery event next week in Wallace

Does an evening of mystery, murder, and fun sound like a good time? Then check out the Silver Valley Chamber’s upcoming interactive production, Murder Mystery: Future Stars of the Silver Valley.

'Years in the Making' tour to roll through Post Falls on May 1

'Years in the Making' tour to roll through Post Falls on May 1

Chart-topping country artist Bryan Martin is hitting the road for his "Years in the Making" tour, a 27-date run in support of his upcoming 13-track LP of the same name, dropping Friday, April 4 via Average Joes Entertainment. He'll perform May 1 at Nashville North in Post Falls.

OPINION: The wave

Legislators may campaign as true conservatives but once elected they usually drift toward the establishment deep state. Surprisingly the reason is psychological.

UNIVERSITIES: Shouldn’t give them tax dollars

Confused, All this talk about suspending money to some of these woke colleges, ever wonder why tax dollars are given to them?

Concerts April 5-6 to whisk audiences to Latin America, Western Europe

Concerts April 5-6 to whisk audiences to Latin America, Western Europe

Just in time for spring break, the Music Conservatory of Coeur d’Alene will be hosting three events the first weekend in April to whisk audiences away on journeys of international music.

EDITORIAL: Honoring Vietnam veterans

Tomorrow marks Vietnam War Veterans Day, a chance to recognize the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who served during one of the most challenging and controversial conflicts in American history. For too long, these veterans were denied the respect and gratitude they deserved, returning home to a nation divided and often hostile to their service.

Idaho lawmakers float tax breaks for IVF procedures

Idaho lawmakers are hoping to put forth the idea for future action of offering a tax deduction on the costs related to using donated embryos for in vitro fertilization.

Celia Elaine Turner, 64

Celia was born in Coeur d'Alene on December 15, 1960, to Zella D. McCaw Turner and Albert H. Turner. On March 2, 2025, Celia passed away

Patricia 'Pat' Chisholm Tiede, 88

Patricia “Pat” Chisholm Tiede was born March 17, 1937, in Butte, Montana to Martha Adele (Prentice) and Harry Elwin Chisholm.

OPINION: Fiscal responsibility means doing the work

“In these times of economic uncertainty and political distrust, it’s easy to fall into the trap of reflexively saying "no" to every dollar spent. After all, the federal government is drowning in debt, and many Idahoans are rightly wary of being tethered to that sinking ship.

Hayden Cinema movie times

Hayden Cinema movie times

CLASSIFIED INFORMATION: Release is extremely serious

I served as a special agent in military Intelligence in Vietnam. Regardless of your political persuasion the unintentional release of classified information must always be regarded as extremely serious. Remember any information regarding the use of military action is certainly cited as Classified if not Secret or higher.

TRUMP: The irony of it all

It is pretty ironic that the richest man in the world tells some of the poor that they have or are spending too much money. He’s chainsawing the veterans’ health care and social services in Idaho while our state legislators hide out somewhere in the bushes of non-concern.

House fire results in animal deaths in Cataldo

Officials say a heat lamp caused a house fire that resulted in the death of several animals near the Rose Lake Cutoff on Monday night.

Legals for March, 28 2025

Judge blocks Idaho's new immigration law hours after it went into effect

Hours after a new law creating state-level immigration crimes went into effect, the ACLU of Idaho and other groups who support immigrants filed a lawsuit challenging it. U.S. District of Idaho Judge Amanda Brailsford later that same day agreed to temporarily block the law.

Transgender bathroom restrictions take effect as Montana governor signs law

Transgender people in Montana can no longer use bathrooms in public buildings that do not align with their sex assigned at birth after Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte signed new restrictions into law Thursday.

At least 6 dead after submarine carrying tourists on a reef tour in Red Sea sinks off Egypt

The submarine was carrying 45 tourists and five Egyptian crewmembers when it sank, Red Sea governor Maj. Gen. Amr Hanafi, said in a statement, adding that rescue teams were quickly sent. He said all six dead were Russians, and that 29 of the 39 tourists rescued were injured and taken to hospitals. No one was still missing from the vessel, he said.

Prosecutors in the killings of 4 Idaho students seek to use man's crime scene paper as evidence

In a court filing Monday, prosecutors said the paper Kohberger wrote in 2020 while he was a student at DeSales University in Pennsylvania “would be introduced to show Defendant’s knowledge of crime scenes.”

Trump administration cuts funds to state health departments. Idaho could lose millions

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare could lose millions of dollars in the latest round of federal funding cuts from the Trump administration.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: NCAA women in Spokane, and a post from the past

USC fans – heck, pretty much all sports fans – are still bummed over the loss of star guard (and insurance pitchwoman) JuJu Watkins to a torn ACL the other night.

PREP ROUNDUP: Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls get a run before the big break

Results from Wednesday's prep track and field, baseball and softball matchups.

All-league boys basketball

Top honorees for Intermountain League and North Star League announced.

High school honors March 27, 2025

Local high school athletes earning honors.

Northwest Notes March 27, 2025

Schmidt, from Coeur d'Alene High, pitched 13.1 innings last week, striking out 10 and posting a 1.60 ERA as the Cardinals swept a four-game series with Utah State University-Eastern in Lewiston.

Bowling scores: March 27, 2025

Scores from area leagues, etc.

Longtime Lakeland teacher calls out school board in resignation letter

Longtime Lakeland teacher calls out school board in resignation letter

A longtime Lakeland Joint School District teacher and adviser issued her resignation at the March 19 school board meeting.

March heats up in Coeur d'Alene

But temperatures expected to fall to 30s by weekend

Coeur d'Alene sets weather record

Let's make a deal

Mountain View students walk through car buyer simulation

“Excuse me sir, that’s my truck,” student Alek Jackson said to his friend who moved closer to the Hummer as he made his way back to the vehicle he had just “bought” from Dave Smith Motors. Jackson and other students at Mountain View Alternative High School got to walk through the motions of buying either a Corvette, Hummer or a Ram Laramie during a sales simulation Tuesday morning.

Rock climbing in Post Falls parks aims higher

City gains partnership with Spokane Mountaineers

The climbing areas of Post Falls Community Forest and Q’emiln Park emerged largely unscathed after the Parkway Fire scorched the area Aug. 4, 2023. The trees and foliage shielding climbers from the hot sun, however, did not fare as well. The Post Falls Parks Department said that the climbing routes are turning over a new leaf by working on creating a partnership with the Spokane Mountaineers.

At college March 27, 2025

Updates on area athletes at the next level.

Coeur d'Alene Tribe remembers lawyer who argued their case in front of Supreme Court

The Coeur d’Alene Tribe had to fight for ownership of the lower third of Coeur d’Alene Lake — and the frontman of that battle, Raymond “Ray” Conway Givens, won’t soon be forgotten.

Coeur d'Alene Kohl's remains open

That will leave Idaho with five Kohl's stores, with one each in Twin Falls, Nampa, Meridian, Ammon and Coeur d'Alene

Dust off the fishing rod and plan your next family fishing outing this spring

Itchin’ for some fishin’? Here are some of the best statewide spring fishing holes for new anglers and families.

But trout aren’t the only type of fishing available. Warmwater fishing can bounce back remarkably fast with a streak of warm, sunny weather, and many other species, such as perch, crappie and bluegill, become very active during spring.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

I heard the Kool Aid man is starting a baseball team.

Kootenai County Veterans Treatment Court looking for mentors

The Kootenai County Veterans Treatment Court is looking for mentors.

Moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat controlled hunt application period opens April 1

To apply, each applicant must possess a 2025 Idaho hunting or combination license

Resident and nonresident can apply for moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat hunts, but nonresidents are limited to no more than 10% of the total number of tags for each species. To apply, each applicant must possess a 2025 Idaho hunting or combination license. There is a nonrefundable application fee of $16.75 for residents and $45.75 for nonresidents.

Idaho governor signs property tax relief bill

Idaho Gov. Brad Little and legislative leaders stood in the driveway a young family’s home Wednesday to sign House Bill 304, which will provide around $100 million to school facilities and property tax relief.

Spring craft fairs

Spring craft fair season has returned.

Timberlake High School announces fall 2024 honor roll

Timberlake High School has announced its 2024 fall semester honor roll.

Social Security changes raise worries

SSA trying to calm concerns of beneficiaries

In a press release it said it is taking steps to enhance the security of its services by implementing stronger identity verification procedures. It said in-person identity proofing for people unable to use their personal my Social Security account for certain services will be effective April 14.

'Recollection' brings home Best Northwest Feature awards

'Recollection' brings home Best Northwest Feature awards

A filmmaking family shot for the moon and has found themselves among the stars. Paradox Studios, founded and owned by Caden Butera of Coeur d'Alene, won the Golden SpIFFy top award for Best Northwest Feature at the Spokane International Film Festival, as well as the audience choice award for Best Northwest Feature. The film, "Recollection," premiered March 7 at the Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center on the Gonzaga University campus.

Legals for March, 27 2025

Trump places 25% tariff on imported autos, expecting to raise $100 billion in tax revenues

President Donald Trump said Wednesday he was placing 25% tariffs on auto imports, a move that the White House claims would foster domestic manufacturing but could also put a financial squeeze on automakers that depend on global supply chains.

Things to know about the limited ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine brokered by the US

After three days of intense negotiations, the Trump administration, Ukraine and Russia agreed to a limited ceasefire in which the key details, including what was covered and how it will start, were disputed by the warring sides, indicating the road to a complete truce will be long and mired with contention.

Idaho Senate passes bill to prevent local, state governments from displaying some flags

The Idaho Senate in a 20-11 vote on Wednesday advanced a bill to prevent government entities from displaying certain flags.

Supreme Court upholds Biden rule requiring serial numbers and background checks for ghost guns

The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld a Biden administration regulation on the nearly impossible-to-trace weapons called ghost guns, clearing the way for continued serial numbers, background checks and age verification requirements for buying the kits online.

The Atlantic releases the entire Signal chat showing Hegseth's detailed attack plans against Houthis

The Atlantic on Wednesday released the entire Signal chat among senior national security officials, showing that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth provided the exact timings of warplane launches and when bombs would drop — before the men and women flying those attacks against Yemen’s Houthis this month on behalf of the United States were airborne.

Kilauea volcano's sporadic eruption resumes in Hawaii as lava pours out of a summit vent

The volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii has been erupting on-and-off since Dec. 23. It's shot tall fountains of lava high into the air and spilled molten rock across the caldera floor each time it’s come back to life. The spectacle is a popular attraction for tourists.

PREP BASEBALL: Lake City takes two from Lewiston

Lake City and Coeur d'Alene return home Thursday for doubleheaders.

PREP SOFTBALL: 5A rivals Lakeland, Sandpoint split

Results from Tuesday's prep softball matchups.

Vandals begin spring football practice

The spring game is scheduled for April 25 at 6 p.m. in the Kibbie Dome.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Just how good are these M's

In any event, I think it’s fair to say the Mariners did their off-season work a few months early. Since we’re all friends here, I thought you should know what’s true.

PREP ROUNDUP: Timberlake's Miler earns medalist honors

Results from Tuesday's prep golf, tennis and track and field events.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Ridge Lovett, Nebraska wrestling

University of Nebraska senior wrestler Ridge Lovett is this week's Knudtsen Chevrolet Press Athlete of the Week.

COLLEGE GOLF: Cardinal men's B takes second at Warrior invite

The North Idaho College men’s golf team returns to action at the Chambers Bay Invitational starting next Monday. The Cardinal women return to action at the Cowgirl Classic in Maricopa, Ariz., April 2-3.

Youth Sports March 26, 2025

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

A new era for Coeur d’Alene

Hagadone Hospitality breaks ground on Sherman Tower

A landmark project is set to reshape downtown Coeur d’Alene’s hospitality landscape, as Hagadone Hospitality officially broke ground on The Sherman Tower Tuesday, marking a significant expansion of The Coeur d’Alene Resort.

Roosevelt Inn buyer proposing another Coeur d'Alene townhome project

Hearing with Design Review Commission slated Thursday

The proposed units would be three stories, with some having a livable attic above the third story. The units would range in size from about 1,000 square feet to 2,350 square feet.

Keeping the spark of Coeur d'Alene language alight

American Indian Heritage Week underway at NIC

Coeur d’Alene tribal member and language expert Cheffrey Sailto delivered his opening message twice, in two languages. “It’s really important for me when I speak, I speak Coeur d’Alene first, English second,” Sailto said.

Idaho House approves establishment of Traditional Family Values Month

The House on Tuesday approved the establishment of Traditional Family Values Month, in a similar resolution to one passed in the Senate in February.

3rd Avenue Marketplace announces Holbrook as next executive director

The 3rd Avenue Marketplace announced Tuesday that Executive Director Leslie Orth is retiring after a decade expanding the organization's community impact. Charlene Holbrook, the current board of director chairperson, has been appointed as the new executive director. The leadership transition will go into effect June 2.

William Stanley McDougall, 80

Born March 16, 1944, in Kellogg, Idaho. William, aka “Bill,” grew up across the street from the Bunker Hill Mine.

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Dreaming of a good night’s sleep

There is nothing so wonderful as waking refreshed after a good night’s sleep. During sleep our brains cycle through different stages, including light sleep, deep sleep, and REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, each serving specific functions like memory consolidation, physical repair, and emotional processing.

OPINION: Take action

Now is the time for every American who truly cares about our country's future to act. That was the message former Congressional Representatives Larry La Rocco and Richard Stallings brought to Coeur d’Alene this past Sunday. Speaking to a crowd of 400 in Post Falls, the two former Idaho representatives addressed the threats facing democracy today.

Marlena 'Gail' Bicknell, 80

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Gail Bicknell, a devoted mother, grandmother, and cherished member of Post Falls Baptist Church, who went to be with her Lord and Savior on March 20th, 2025, when she was 80 years old. Born on December 27th, 1944, in Clovis, New Mexico, to Benjamin Hillock and Betty J. Martin Hillock.

Vocational Rehab, Coeur d'Alene School District host career fair

Vocational Rehab, Coeur d'Alene School District host career fair

The gym in the Coeur d'Alene Early Learning Center was bustling with conversation for hours Tuesday as high school students learned about pet grooming, public safety, cotton candy making and other potential career paths. "I did learn a lot of stuff," Coeur d'Alene High School student Danny Nguyen said.

OPINION: Vietnam War Veterans Day reminds us of what it means to serve

March 29 is Vietnam War Veterans Day, the day set aside to remember and honor those who served in that ill-fated war. A phone call earlier this month brought to mind a perfect example of what dedicated service-to-country looks like. My friend, James Peterson, called to say that he would be undergoing surgery for a dangerous cancer, likely the result of his substantial exposure to Agent Orange during two tours of service with the Special Forces (SF) in Vietnam. It hit me hard because here was a man who had dedicated his life to standing up for his country and now was faced with a hefty price.

EDITORIAL: Fire department building bond support

It is being as informative and as transparent as possible. And as they are the experts in this field, we ask residents to listen closely.

LEGISLATORS: Don’t actually represent us

So Idaho, how are our legislators doing? Are they making our lives better? Here are a few things that I, and a majority of Idaho residents are concerned with.

DESTRUCTION: What will take its place?

Destruction requires little more than impulse. But to build something of value demands patience, foresight and care. It takes time to lay foundations, to reinforce, to design with wisdom. Too often, what is lost cannot be replaced, like air traffic controllers, special education teachers and doctors counseling suicidal veterans.

William 'Brett' Eldredge, 61

Born April 12, 1963 - Passed March 19, 2025

7 things most people overlook when estate planning

Estate planning is more than just drafting a will. As an Idaho estate planning attorney, I've seen many clients focus on the obvious aspects while missing critical elements that can have significant consequences for their loved ones.

Joyce Gundlach, 83

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joyce (Jo) Ann Gundlach of Lyle, Washington, on March 16th, 2025, at the age of 83. Jo was born on September 24th, 1941, in Wallace Idaho, to Winifred and Anthony Bubb.

MY TURN: Idaho Short Term Rental Bill 1162

I know Hilary Patterson has spoken up in opposition of State Bill in Boise for Short Term Rental Bill 1162 imposing restrictions on cities to govern the impact and proliferation of the Short Term Rentals in our tourism focused city. Bill 1162 also suggests lowering fees to $50 per rental, making it a joke to any oversight on a high profit accommodation windfall. It is a state action focused on the property rights of Owners in lieu of a cities desire to retain citizens and workers.

HOSPICE: Crest deserves recognition

Last Sunday The Press ran a story about Hospice of North Idaho and yes, they are a wonderful organization. I want to also give credit to Crest Hospice of Coeur d’Alene.

HAYDEN: Time for new leadership

There’s a saying that feels more relevant than ever: You can take the politician out of California, but you can’t take the California out of the politician. That’s exactly what we’re seeing with Councilwoman Sandy White here in Hayden.

SCHOOLS: Everyone should be welcome

By now, we all know the story. A sixth-grade teacher in Meridian is ordered to remove two signs from her classroom saying, “Everyone is welcome here.” One showed hands of different skin tones. School administrators argue that “Everyone is welcome here” is a personal opinion that not everyone would agree with. This was not someone smuggling immigrants across the border. This was a teacher’s heartfelt greeting and the words near the end of our Pledge of Allegiance, “Liberty and Justice for all.”

Lippert running for CLN trustee post

Lippert served 24 years as a trustee on the Post Falls School Board, "where she gained extensive experience in public finance, governance, policy development, and open meeting laws," the release said.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Why don't manatees use calendars?

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Vagus nerve

If you aren’t familiar with the vagus nerve and what it does in the body, you’re not alone! More and more evidence in recent years is helping us understand this lesser-known bodily system and how it controls inflammation, brain and organ function, our body’s perception of stress, and more.

Jerad Paul Wilhelmsen, 37

Jerad Paul Wilhelmsen, born February 29th, 1988, in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, left us far too soon on March 18th, 2025. His leap-day birthday made him unique from the very start, and that uniqueness continued throughout his life.

CHS technology students excel at Idaho State Leadership Conference

Coeur d'Alene High School’s chapter of the Technology Student Association made an impression during last week's Idaho TSA State Leadership Conference in Meridian.

March Madness and spring fever are here

March Madness is in full swing. I think we’ve watched at least a dozen men’s basketball games in the past few weeks. I don’t watch much regular season basketball with the exception of those Gonzaga boys but I love March Madness.

Richard L. Egge, 85

Richard Egge, 85, passed away on March 13, 2025, in Othello, Washington. He was the youngest of the ten children born to John and Thelma (Swenson) Egge. He was born February 24, 1940, in Williston, North Dakota, and grew up in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Harold Harry Eckhart, 87

Harold Harry Eckhart, 87, Our beloved husband, father, grandpa, and great grandpa, Harold H. Eckhart departed this life peacefully at his home in Post Falls, Idaho on 15 March 2025. He was the youngest of four born to Harry Henry Eckhart and Adelia Anna Lange in Chokio, Minnesota on 27 October 1937.

Legals for March, 26 2025

Numerica announces layoffs, restructuring

The 25 layoffs are about 3.5% of Numerica’s workforce of 660 team members across North Idaho, Spokane, Tri-Cities and Wenatchee.

Idaho continues its ‘historic’ tax cuts. Here’s what residents can expect

Idaho residents can expect to see more property tax relief after Gov. Brad Little signs a bill into law that would cut $100 million in taxes a year.

Trump signs sweeping action overhauling US elections, including requiring proof of citizenship

President Donald Trump on Tuesday signed a sweeping executive action to overhaul elections in the U.S., including requiring documentary proof of citizenship to register to vote in federal elections and demanding that all ballots be received by Election Day.

Emergency abortions are now allowed — at only some Idaho hospitals, judge rules

Idaho doctors can perform an abortion as stabilizing care during a medical emergency, a federal judge ruled Thursday — so long as they’re at the right hospital.

Kroger blames Albertsons for merger's demise in new court filings

Kroger also claimed that Albertsons was secretly planning to sue Kroger if the deal didn’t go through long before the merger actually fell apart in December. Kroger said in Tuesday's court filing that it should not be forced to pay Albertsons a $600 million termination fee as well as billions of dollars in legal fees.

5 lions rescued from the war in Ukraine settle into a new life in England

Male African lion Rori and lionesses Amani, Lira and Vanda arrived this month at the Big Cat Sanctuary after a 12-hour journey by road and ferry from temporary homes at zoos and animal shelters in Belgium. They join lioness Yuna, who arrived in August, at the sanctuary’s new Lion Rescue Center, which officially opens on Tuesday.

Prosecutors may call members of Bryan Kohberger’s family to testify during trial

Kohberger was a graduate student studying criminal justice and criminology at Washington State University, in Pullman, Washington, just nine miles from where the three female victims lived with two other young women who went physically unharmed during the homicides.

Hecla forges ahead with Lincoln County mine

That optimism met a roadblock when the state of Montana tried to label Hecla’s former CEO, Phillips S. Baker, a “bad actor” for his involvement in a failed mine cleanup in north-central Montana. Legally designating Baker a “bad actor” would have prevented Hecla from conducting any mining activity in Montana until the state was compensated $32 million for the failed clean-up of three mines owned by Pegasus Gold Corp., where Baker was once an executive. (Baker countered that he was innocent and that he had already left Pegasus before the company went bankrupt). After Gov. Greg Gianforte took office in 2021, the Montana Department of Environmental Quality dropped its effort to blacklist Baker.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Don't cry because it's over — smile because nine straight trips to the Sweet 16 happened

Supporters of so many big-name schools somehow just can’t stomach the notion that the Zags win NCAA tournament games fair and square. I promise you that thousands of supposed “neutrals,” fans of other blue-blood hoop schools, just LOVED seeing Houston hang on to win last Saturday. They probably had a heart-in-mouth moment when it looked like Khalif Battle would have a chance to tie the game.

Silver Valley Sports Recap: March 17-23

Spring sports fire up

Coeur d'Alene HOA hopes to get goats

HOA hoping critters can clear steep slope of fire hazard

Maintaining the property near Fred Meyer has long been a problem due to extreme slopes. A city report said many ideas have been considered, but none were deemed feasible without putting the safety of landscape company employees at risk.

North Idaho College programs take burden off mom in need of vehicle repair

North Idaho College programs take burden off mom in need of vehicle repair

A spray and wipe here, a twist of a lug nut there. Second-year North Idaho College automotive technology student Sam MacKinnon inspected a front brake rotor of a 2003 Mercury Mountaineer before putting on the final touches Thursday afternoon.

National Vietnam War Veterans Day, March 29

'A Grateful Nation Thanks and Honors You'

A proclamation was made on March 29, 2012, by President Barack Obama, declaring that very day, March 29, 2012, will be “Vietnam Veterans Day.” He called on “all Americans to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities that commemorate the 50-year anniversary of the Vietnam War.” Legislation was not passed to add Vietnam Veterans Day to our calendar.

Petition asking Crapo to defend Medicaid receives thousands of signatures

A petition letter calling on Senator Mike Crapo to protect Medicaid during budget negotiations has been delivered to several of Crapo's offices throughout the state, including his Coeur d'Alene office.

'Fill in' strategy working at Shoshone County Jail

The Shoshone County Commissioners met with Shoshone County Sheriff Holly Lindsey and Undersheriff Lance Stutzke last week where they updated the board on the status of their jail fill-in strategy.

Northwest Notes March 25, 2025

WHL news ...

VETERANS PRESS: Appeal your VA claim

Do you disagree with VA's decision on your claim? Veterans and other claimants for VA benefits can choose from three decision review options: Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, and Board Appeal. Learn more about your appeal options.

Chip Shots March 25, 2025

Scores, news from local golf courses, leagues, etc.

Free music, dancing with One Site for Seniors

The free event includes live music, dancing, beverages, snacks and silent auctions.

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and jail bookings for Shoshone County jail.

Robert 'Bob' Cummings, 90

Robert “Bob” Arthur Cummings, 90, of Kellogg, Idaho, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on March 23, 2025, at the home of his daughter in Diamond Lake, WA. Bob was born on February 7, 1935, in Thompson Falls, Mont., a son of the late Alton and Margarette (Soule) Cummings.

VETERANS PRESS: Important VA airborne hazards and open burn pit registry changes

Burn pit registry redesign auto enrolls participants and simplifies requirements.

VETERANS PRESS: The Youngest American soldier in World War II

World War II was one of the most transformative events of the 20th century. It was the largest war ever fought, with more than 50 nations and 100 million troops involved, and it reshaped geopolitics, resulting in the United States and Soviet Union emerging as major world powers leading into the Cold War. This far-reaching war also inspired new global peacekeeping efforts, including the creation of the United Nations, and it brought to light incredibly courageous acts of humanity from soldiers and civilians alike. Here is the story of one daring hero of the Second World War.

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.

VETERANS PRESS: Eligibility for VA disability benefits

VA disability compensation provides tax-free monthly payments. If you have a service-connected condition, you may be eligible for compensation. A service-connected condition means an illness or injury that was caused by — or got worse because of — your active military service. Keep reading to find out if you may be eligible.

Hunter education class returning to Shoshone County next month

Pinehurst Elementary School will play host to a Hunter Education Course next month, but spots are limited.

VETERANS PRESS: VA Medical Center Expansion of Eligibility due to Early Implementation of PACT Act

Beginning March 5, 2024, three new cohorts of Veterans will be eligible to enroll directly in VA health care without first applying for VA benefits. The three cohorts are: Veterans who participated in a toxic exposure risk activity (TERA), as defined by law, while serving on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training.

Committee sends overhaul of Idaho's campaign finance law to House

A major overhaul of Idaho’s campaign finance law moved the House floor Monday.

VETERANS PRESS: North Idaho Resource Directory

North Idaho Resource Directory

VETERANS PRESS: The Veterans Creed: 'I am an American Veteran…'

Business has ended at our monthly American Legion meeting in Rathdrum. All members stand to recite words that define their military service from the past— and beyond…the Veterans Creed.

Free paint night for veterans Thursday at Post Falls American Legion

Art and Flow Studio will host a free event for veterans, Healing Heroes: A Special Painting Night, at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the Post Falls American Legion.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Why do neighbors hate elephants?

VETERANS PRESS: Why didn’t anyone let him know?

Quote from the December 2018 newsletter…

VETERANS PRESS: Military facts that may surprise you (16-20)

16) Most U.S. Presidents served in the Army: Before taking up their roles as Commander in Chief, 31 of the 46 U.S. Presidents served in some branch of the military. The Army boasts the most presidential alumni with 16. Obviously serving in the military isn’t required, but it makes sense considering that the president is effectively the leader of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Joyce Ann Dunn, 75

Joyce was born in Muskogee Oklahoma May 27, 1949. She passed on March 9th, 2025.

Legals for March, 25 2025

Georgia jury orders Monsanto parent to pay nearly $2.1 billion in Roundup weedkiller lawsuit

The penalties awarded include $65 million in compensatory damages and $2 billion in punitive damages, law firms Arnold & Itkin LLP and Kline & Specter PC said in a statement. That marks one of the largest verdicts in a Roundup-related case to date.

Florida Gov. DeSantis visits Idaho in push for U.S. Constitution balanced budget amendment

Critics say a constitutional convention could put the entire Constitution up for change. But supporters argue a convention is needed to rein in the rising federal deficit and an increasingly powerful federal government.

A new thermal steam vent is grabbing attention in ever-changing Yellowstone National Park

Mike Poland, scientist in charge of the observatory, said Monday that such features are often forming and constantly changing in Yellowstone.

Japan's cherry blossom season begins as first blooms appear in Tokyo

Cherry blossoms, or “sakura,” are Japan’s favorite flower and usually reach their peak in late March to early April, just as the country celebrates the start of a new school and business year. Many Japanese enjoy walking or picnicking under the trees.

Teen killed after triggering avalanche in Alaska, where 4 have died in snow slides this month

A teenager has died after triggering an avalanche, the fourth person killed in snow slides in Alaska this month.

Idaho Legislature misses target date for adjourning 2025 legislative session

As expected, Idaho legislators did not adjourn the 2025 legislative session by Friday’s targeted adjournment date and are reconvening today to begin the 12th week of the session.

Monday TV/Radio highlights

Television, radio highlights for Monday, March 24

Kootenai County Democrats talk taking action during town hall event

Former Democratic Representatives Larry LaRocco and Richard Stallings have held eight town hall meetings in cities throughout Idaho over the past few weeks.

Post Falls to explore finance program

C-PACE facilitates long-term loans for new construction projects

Post Falls City Council made a unanimous vote this week to explore the C-PACE financial program. Currently, Coeur d’Alene was the first city in the state to have adopted the program, which facilitates longer-term loans of 20 or 30 years for new construction projects to incorporate energy-efficient designs or upgrades like new roofing or HVAC improvements to existing commercial buildings.

Idaho Transportation Department announces Highway 54 right-of-way closures

With tree removal and utility relocation mostly complete, the Idaho Transportation Department announced Thursday construction is set to begin on the stretch of highway from State Highway 41 to Greystone Road near Athol. Starting next week, the right-of-way along the south side of Highway 54 – including the unofficial off-road trails – will be closed to all traffic due to the active work zone with heavy equipment. This closure is necessary to ensure the safety of everyone, including those using the trails, construction crews and others on the adjacent roadway.

An anniversary of the worst tornado in the U.S.

Spring has officially arrived in the Northern Hemisphere and the tornado season, especially in the U.S. east of the Rockies, has been ramping up. From March 13-17, over 100 twisters were reported that included three EF4 storms. Two dozen people were killed as tornadoes were spotted across 14 states from Illinois southward into Arkansas and into the Gulf Coastal region.

CDAIDE to host seventh annual Care Affair

CDAIDE will host its seventh annual Care Affair event April 25 at The Coeur d’Alene Resort. The Care Affair is a charity gala that raises funds to support local hospitality workers through times of financial crisis. The evening will feature a smorgasbord of foods by top Sysco chefs, auctions, live music, a no-host bar and appetizers provided by local chefs. Last year's Care Affair was attended by over 200 people.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

How do cats make the fluffiest omelets?

Segway recalls 220,000 of its scooters due to a fall hazard that has resulted in 20 injuries

Segway is recalling about 220,000 of its scooters sold across the U.S. due to a fall hazard that has resulted in user injuries ranging from bruises to broken bones.

COLLEGE WRESTLING: We LOVETT! ... Former Post Falls High star claims NCAA title in dramatic fashion

Lovett, a fifth-year senior from Post Falls High, held off defending NCAA champion Caleb Henson of Virginia Tech 1-0 to win the 149-pound national championship at the Wells Fargo Center on Saturday.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: You gotta fight ... for your right ... to get the name right!

Maybe we’re just going to have to live with this, every March. Because the lovable team that inspired all of this isn’t going away anytime soon.

PREP BASEBALL: Coey's slam fuels Coeur d'Alene's sweep of Lakeland

Results from Saturday's games around the area.

PREP TRACK AND FIELD: Badger boys, Timberlake girls claim titles at Bonners Ferry Invitational

Area schools open season at Bonners Ferry on Saturday.

PREP SOFTBALL: Nordman's no-no caps Coeur d'Alene sweep in opener

Results from Saturday's prep softball games in the area.

'Our elk needed help'

Foundation for Wildlife Management’s fifth annual fundraising banquet is April 5

Finney and Roman are the faces of the Coeur d’Alene chapter of the Foundation for Wildlife Management (F4WM) an Idaho Fish and Game endorsed group that seeks to stabilize wolf populations and increase elk hunting opportunities in Idaho and neighboring states.

North Idaho Kindness Project delivers notes of appreciation throughout community

North Idaho Kindness Project delivers notes of appreciation throughout community

"You are loved." "You are appreciated." "Our community is a better place with you in it." "We're glad you're here." These words of love and gratitude are showering the community with good vibes as friendly notes are being distributed to an array of organizations and businesses during the North Idaho Kindness Project's 2025 Kindness Card campaign.

Coeur d'Alene Fire Department's bond campaign heating up

Open houses, presentations, new website offer info on $16.4M initiative going to voters in May

The $16.4 million, 10-year bond will go to voters May 20. Funds will go to repair out-of-date facilities, replace aging fleet and equipment and remodel, expand and upgrade three stations.

208 Clothing + Gift set to open in Rathdrum

Though Rathdrum is one of North Idaho’s most quickly growing cities, a specialty gift shop has yet to join the community’s expanding business landscape — until now.

HUCKLEBERRIES: Better planning for the future

Dorothy Dahlgren was a fan of Coeur d’Alene history before it was cool.

NIC SOFTBALL: Cardinals finish off one win, then sweep Utah State-Eastern

NIC (14-12, 6-6 SWAC) travels to Salt Lake next Friday and Saturday.

OUR GEM: North Idaho Green Summit

The Green Summit is a refreshing journey through all that North Idaho has to offer for those of us that love this place. Attendees will hear encouraging messages about how to preserve the green spaces that we love so much.

Flexibility can pay off

A college professor was once approached after a lecture by a young man demanding an explanation for an apparent contradiction between something he had said during class and something he had written in an article years before.

EDITORIAL: A second chance to do things right

Recent events at our local town hall meeting were disappointing, to say the least. When citizens and elected officials gather, there's an opportunity for meaningful exchange that can strengthen our democracy. Unfortunately, that opportunity was squandered.

NAVAJO: Code talkers should be honored

You have got to be kidding me!

RATHDRUM: Aquatic center is a great idea

I want to echo the recent letter that voiced the need for a swimming pool in Rathdrum. Rathdrum is the fastest growing city in the county and, together with the surrounding area, has more than enough population to support a year-round aquatic center. Currently, I drive to the Kroc in Coeur d’Alene once or twice a week to swim. For many people, especially families with children, going to Coeur d’Alene to find a pool simply isn’t an option.

Breaking a Guinness World Record in Coeur d'Alene: A builder's journey

On March 30th, something extraordinary is happening in Coeur d'Alene. A man who has spent a lifetime creating—first as a seventh-grade tech entrepreneur, later as a pioneer in video conferencing, and now in his so-called "retirement"—is about to set a Guinness World Record. And you can be a part of it.

WILDLIFE BOARD: Unnecessary bureaucracy

When livestock producers in Idaho experience a possible predation event involving wolves, mountain lions, black bears, or grizzly bears, they typically contact the USDA’s APHIS-Wildlife Services. Within 48 hours, a federally trained investigator arrives to conduct a necropsy (animal autopsy) to determine whether a predator was responsible.

Should your living trust be named as the beneficiary of your life insurance policy?

Should you name your living trust as the beneficiary of your life insurance policy? Is it better to name specific individuals as direct beneficiaries?

Robert Clinton Boynton, 86

Robert passed away at his home in Rathdrum, Idaho, on March 11, 2025, just short of his 87th birthday on March 20, 1938. He is survived by his wife, Vicky Sandra Boynton after 62 years of marriage.

Emily Coats, 85

Emily Bell Coats passed away quickly and painlessly on February 26th from a brain aneurysm while enjoying a bowl of soup in Irving, Texas.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

What do you call a nun who sleepwalks?

OPINION: Bold and collaborative approaches are needed to solve Idaho’s physician shortage

Today, 43 of 44 Idaho counties are designated health professions shortage areas

Idahoans are increasingly aware that Idaho ranks last in the nation in physicians per capita, and that our acute and growing shortage of physicians and limited access to medical care leads to sicker and less healthy populations. Today, 43 of 44 Idaho counties are designated health professions shortage areas.

Community Thanks

See who's thankful!

Kootenai sheriff deputies arrest assault suspect

The suspect then displayed a firearm and pointed it at the victim before leaving. Shortly after leaving the property, the suspect fired the gun causing the victim to shelter in their home.

COLLEGE WRESTLING: Former Post Falls star Lovett reaches national title match tonight

Lovett advanced to the national title match in 2022, finishing runner-up to Cornell’s Yianni Diakmoihalis 11-5. In 2024, Lovett was sixth at nationals.

PREP BASKETBALL: Engelson, Mitley shine in annual District 1 All-Star Games

Area high school basketball players compete in annual event at Mullan Pavilion.

PREP ROUNDUP: Cd'A boys captures Sweeney meet

Results from Friday's prep track and field, baseball and softball contests.

NIC SOFTBALL: Cardinals win opener, have nightcap suspended due to weather

The teams are scheduled to play a doubleheader today in Lewiston, starting at noon.

Lakeland superintendent talks levy with Rathdrum Chamber

Says passage in May is critical to operations

One hundred percent of seniors at Lakeland, Timberlake and Mountain View Alternative high schools graduated at the close of the 2024 school year. "That's 13 years of commitment and dedication from an amazing staff working with amazing parents to take care of kids and make sure that they have the skills that they need to be successful," Lakeland Joint School District Superintendent Lisa Arnold said Thursday as she spoke at a Rathdrum Chamber of Commerce luncheon at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church.

Boys dance, too: Rathdrum teen taking national dance stage

Tyson Beckett’s parents always knew that their son was destined for the stage.

Spring shoppers, Coeur d'Alene wants you

Coeur d'Alene Downtown Association offers weekend getaway, prizes

Entry to win the giveaway is simple, all you need to do is shop at any of the participating businesses Downtown Coeur d’Alene, now through April 28 and submit your entry through the QR code near the store checkout counter

'Catastrophic failure' avoided in Dudley

Culvert repair diverts flood

With precipitation in the forecast for the next few days, Ben Weymouth, the director of highways for East Side Highway District, said repairs were completed just in time to rectify the River Road culvert failure in Dudley. Rainfall and early spring runoff in Fourth of July Creek led to a partial collapse of culverts and damaged the floodgates beneath River Road near Dudley.

North Idaho College settles Rumpler lawsuit

North Idaho College has settled a lawsuit leveled by a former employee.

Teen suffers burns in kitchen fire

Three units displaced at apartment

Families displaced by apartment fire

MY TURN: Response to Kriz U.S. Forest Service letter

I am responding to the Letter in the March 16, 2025, Press regarding the U.S. Forest Service. Mr. Ron Kriz sent you a letter against the U.S. Forest Service and its employees. I must admit I am shocked by his tone and apparent lack of knowledge of what the employees of that organization do while at work. He is so totally off-base it is difficult to know where to start.

Life is better with a few good friends

My wife kids me that I don’t have any friends, to which I respond, “I do, too. I have three.” She seems suspicious of this claim. To prove it, I name them: Don Witulski, Keith Erickson and Mike McLean.

North Idaho reps propose health exemptions to abortion law

Bill unlikely to move forward

Two North Idaho lawmakers are hoping to amend Idaho’s abortion bans to address Idaho’s doctor shortage.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

My husband and I are going to the eye doctor to get new glasses tomorrow.

James Kearns Jr., 86

James William Kearns, Jr. (Bill) passed away Saturday, March 8, 2025, in Bozeman, Montana, where he had lived for the last couple of years. He was born to James William Kearns, Sr. and Ossia Taylor Kearns on November 1, 1938, in the Broadwater Hospital in Townsend.

The Exhausted Dad: Incoming high school anxieties

I’m not ready to be a parent of a high schooler.

Barbara J. Kamprath-Radtke, 91

Barbara J. Kamprath-Radtke, 91

Bauman running for CLN board

In addition to expressing Bauman's appreciation of the many resources and programs available to children at libraries, she placed an emphasis on the importance of law in the protection of children by stating,

PET TALK: Doggie decoding: Understanding canine body language

Without the gift of gab, dogs are left to rely on a bark, a tail wag or, sometimes, even a snarl to communicate with their two-legged companions.

Washington man acquitted after fatal crash

A jury acquitted a Washington man who was accused of driving while under the influence and causing a crash that killed a Benewah County man.

Also: Netflix’s expensive flop ‘The Electric State’

Also: Netflix’s expensive flop ‘The Electric State’

Steven Soderbergh, the Oscar-winning director of “Traffic,” makes a movie (or two) every year, jumping from different genres at ease and almost never delivering a dud.

School and Senior Meals

School and Senior Meals: March 24-28

...but researchers point to one feature that makes ours unique

...but researchers point to one feature that makes ours unique

Of the 8.7 million species on Earth, why are human beings the only one that paints self-portraits, walks on the Moon and worships gods?

Legals for March, 22 2025

North Idaho legislators bring bill to add health exceptions to state’s abortion ban

Bill sponsor says he felt obligated to ‘start a conversation’ knowing it won’t get full hearing

Under Idaho’s abortion ban, a physician may provide an abortion if it’s to “prevent the death of the pregnant woman.” However, medical providers have said this wording does not make it clear if physicians can provide an abortion to prevent detrimental health outcomes, such as preeclampsia, hemorrhaging or the loss of future fertility.

After biennial cleanup, 144,000 individuals removed from Idaho voter rolls

Election offices regularly update their voter rolls, removing individuals who moved out of state, those who have not cast a ballot in four years, or those who are ineligible. Elections offices sent notices to people who were removed from Idaho’s voter registration list. The biennial effort is meant to ensure the accuracy and integrity of Idaho elections, according to the Idaho Secretary of State’s office.

First plane lands at London's Heathrow since a fire cut power to Europe's busiest airport

Residents in west London described hearing a large explosion, followed by a fireball and clouds of smoke, when the blaze ripped through the electrical substation near the airport.

Eyeing China threat, Trump announces Boeing wins contract for secretive future fighter jet

The 47th president, who announced the award at the White House with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Air Force leadership, said with a grin that the new fighter would be named the F-47.

NIC settles Rumpler lawsuit

NIC categorically denies any and all wrongdoing or liability in the matter. The decision to settle the case was based on the best interests of NIC, avoiding the high cost and distraction of litigation, and maintaining a positive path forward.

Amazon warehouse planned for south Kalispell

The contractor is Dick Anderson Construction, a management firm with offices across Montana, Wyoming, Arizona and Illinois. The architect of the project is Scott Conley.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: After that 'big' effort from Zags, Houston should be worried

Maybe Few’s endless instruction, and now his lineup change, can pull all that obvious talent from his Zags. If so, Saturday could be a battle. Houston, you may have a problem.

NIC coaches to be honored by NJCAA

North Idaho College wrestling coaches Pat Whitcomb and John Owen, as well as men’s basketball coach Rolly Williams are among nearly 200 coaches across 28 sports were nominated by the schools at which they coached.

COLLEGE WOMEN'S BASKETBALL: Ejim's double-double leads Gonzaga in first round of WBIT

Gonzaga (23-10) advances to play at top-seeded Colorado on Sunday in Boulder, Colo., at noon.

COLLEGE WRESTLING: Lovett moves on NCAA quarterfinals

Lovett, who was runner-up in 2022 and sixth in 2024, beat Sam Cartella of Northwestern 10-8 in the opening round.

PREP ROUNDUP: Post Falls finally opens baseball season, splits

Results from Thursday's prep baseball and tennis competitions.

Addicted to news in Coeur d'Alene

Sharon Ostrom has been a Press subscriber for 74 years

Yet, every morning, with the exception of Monday, Ostrom eagerly retrieves The Press from her front porch and retreats to her living room. There, she flips through the pages, reading about the local happenings, checking the sports section and lifestyles, not quite so interested in the national or world events.

Community Library Network board talks regional consortium, ‘propaganda’ policy

Community Library Network trustees put off deciding whether to sign a new joint powers agreement with a regional library consortium and to adopt an updated materials selection and acquisition policy that labels “propaganda promoting illegal activity” as “inappropriate for minors.”

Public dock access issue may be resolved before boating season

Boating season is right around the corner, though a resolution may not be far off concerning the docks and restrooms through Lakes Highway District and previously maintained by Kootenai County through the Department of Parks and Waterways. The sites at Bayview Fifth and Lakeside, the Spirit Lake Nautical Loop and the Twin Lakes Par 3 have been called into question after the county terminated the launch lease on Jan. 6.

'No small thing'

Canfield Middle School students donate $1,000 to Canopy Village

Sometimes, identifying needs in the community can start with a simple question.

Weekend TV/Radio highlights

Television, streaming and radio highlights for upcoming weekend.

Downhill from here in the Silver Valley

Recent snowfall boosts Silver Valley ski hills

Mid-March snowstorms have put the Silver Valley’s local ski hills in prime position to finish the winter strong.

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail.

OPINION: Invincible ignorance

“There are none so blind as those that will not see.” John Heywood

Artists wanted for 'Art Uplifts' show at the Jacklin Arts and Cultural Center

Artists wanted for 'Art Uplifts' show at the JACC

The Jacklin Arts and Cultural Center is seeking submissions for its upcoming "Art Uplifts" show.

Big Red's Barn is back

Grand reopening celebration this weekend

The grand reopening celebration for locally owned and operated Big Red’s Barn is set for this weekend following a change in ownership last year.

Wallace passes special events ordinance

A recently adopted ordinance has Wallace residents questioning their future involvement in the city’s many events.

OPINION: The chickens and the eggs

This week, a legislative committee held a hearing on a bill that would have allowed more Idaho families to raise backyard chickens. While the bill ultimately failed to advance to the floor, it was yet another example of how Idaho families are responding as inflation continues driving grocery prices through the roof.

Joyce Naomi Dunphy, 91

Joyce Naomi Dunphy, 91, of Post Falls, Idaho, and formerly of Wallace, Idaho, passed away on September 21, 2024, at Guardian Angel Homes in Post Falls, Idaho. Joyce was born on October 23, 1932, in Pierre, SD, the daughter of the late John Lovelace and Naomi (Dot) Lovelace.

Jerry Allan Hill, 67

Jerry Allan Hill, 67, of Kingston, Idaho, passed away into the loving embrace of Jesus on March 18, 2025. Jerry was born in Kellogg, Idaho, to George and Helen Hill.

ANARCHY: Tragic consequences

The book of Judges in the Old Testament is filled with frightening stories about how Israel descended into anarchy. In that state they were easy prey for their enemies to successfully attack.

FOREST SERVICE: Cleans and maintains trails

This in reference to Ron Kriz that wrote about the forest service in Sunday’s paper.

CITY LINK: Expand service west of Spokane Street

Federal funding for public transportation in urban areas is based on a statutory formula set in law to support transit. Kootenai County was allocated $2,870,350 USD last year. Post Falls alone contributed $41,000 USD. Over 100,000 people ride the bus annually.

IRS: Cuts benefit the wealthy

Trump just cut the number of IRS agents, making them unable to continue collecting billions in back taxes from wealthy tax slackers. Those IRS agents were bringing in a lot more revenue than they were costing in wages.

Hayden Cinema movie times

Hayden Cinema movie times

Inaugural event will be March 28-29

Inaugural event will be March 28-29

The Soundscape Festival will debut at The Coeur d'Alene Resort next weekend.

Crooked Kilt to play Create Arts Center

Crooked Kilt will perform traditional and eclectic Celtic music at 6 p.m. March 29 at the Create Arts Center.

Free tax services available

Local AARP tax-aide volunteers are expected to help thousands more North Idahoans when free tax preparation services return Feb. 1 through April 15.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

A guy told me, "Nothing rhymes with orange."

EDITORIAL: Shield law signals Idaho's commitment to press freedom

The Idaho Legislature has unanimously passed House Bill 158, creating a much-needed shield law to protect journalists' confidential sources. This legislation, now awaiting Governor Brad Little's signature, represents a significant step forward for press freedom in our state and deserves wholehearted praise.

Margaret Boyd, 71

Margaret Ann (Bagley-Alltus) Boyd was incredibly beloved. She took her first breath on March 9, 1954, and breathed out her last on March 12, 2025,

Legals for March, 21 2025

Five arrested in Athol for immigration violations

Border Patrol detained the five Mexican nationals and later booked them into the Kootenai County Jail for federal immigration violations.

Trump orders a plan to dismantle the Education Department while keeping some core functions

President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday calling for the dismantling of the U.S. Education Department, advancing a campaign promise to take apart an agency that’s been a longtime target of conservatives.

Court filings offer new details in Bryan Kohberger's quadruple murder case. Here's what to know

A flurry of court documents filed this week in the case of Bryan Kohberger, the man charged in the killings of four University of Idaho students in late 2022, offers new details about how the case against him is shaping up.

Administrative costs for Idaho’s private school tax credit rise to $675,000

The funding request is more than double the $255,800 called for in the bill that the Idaho Legislature approved and Gov. Brad Little signed

Taliban frees an American man who was abducted while traveling in Afghanistan more than 2 years ago

An American man who was abducted more than two years ago while traveling through Afghanistan as a tourist has been released by the Taliban in a deal with the Trump administration that Qatari negotiators helped broker, the State Department said Thursday.

Court records reveal prosecutors allege Kohberger bought knife, sheath before Moscow homicides

Bryan Kohberger, the man charged with murder in the fatal stabbings of four University of Idaho students, bought the same brand of knife that police suspect was used in the violent crime in November 2022, according to a new court filing.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: In the NCAAs, don’t give them a reason to keep you out

Boise State is a really good program. It just needs to get a little bit better.

PREP ROUNDUP: McLean wins four as Trojans take opening dual with Lake City

Results from Wednesday's prep track and field, softball and tennis contests.

North Idaho Hall of Fame announces award finalists for April 12 banquet

The award winners will be announced at the annual banquet, which is set for Saturday, April 12, at the Coeur d’Alene Resort and will take place along with the induction ceremonies for the North Idaho Hall of Fame.

AT COLLEGE: March 20, 2025

Updates on area athletes at the next level.

Redman 'super happy' with HB345 signing

“I’m super happy,” said the Republican from Coeur d’Alene. “It’s something I worked on for quite a while.”

High school transition program celebrates 15 years

High school transition program celebrates 15 years

If rising tides lift all ships, then Project SEARCH is how young adults with disabilities become captains of their own fates. The high school transition program has been conducted in partnership with Kootenai Health and the Coeur d'Alene School District for 15 years. Interns, graduates, business partners, school district leaders and hospital officials gathered Wednesday at Kootenai Health to celebrate just how much of an impact this program has made on countless lives and the community as a whole.

Coeur d'Alene saving about $400K from unfilled positions

But openings can strain staff, affect service, says finance director

The reduced payroll spending has also reduced the city’s need to dip into the general fund, Ebner said.

Gov. Little signs bill reforming roles of Idaho coroners in death investigations

Idaho Gov. Brad Little signed into law this week a bill that clarifies the roles of Idaho’s coroners in death investigations.

Post Falls council adopts housing assessment

A citywide housing needs assessment was adopted unanimously at the City Council meeting Tuesday after a discussion about the future of housing in Post Falls.

Bowling scores: March 20, 2025

Scores from area leagues.

'He was a good one'

City offers accolades to late longtime employee

Ken Thompson remembered

What to know about the bird flu outbreak in wild birds

And what it means for backyard bird feeders

Take precautions around sick or dead wild birds, experts recommend. But you can keep your bird feeder up. Despite the spread in birds and other wild animals, scientists say the threat to the general population is currently low.

Spring craft fairs are popping up

Spring craft fair season has returned.

Fish and Game to host 'State of the Lake' open house on March 27

Ask questions and learn more about the status of fish populations in Lake Pend Oreille

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Is soy milk actually

Amid Forest Service cuts, Idaho Trails Association seeks volunteers for Panhandle projects

Amid Forest Service cuts, Idaho Trails Association seeks volunteers for Panhandle projects

Idaho’s trails are a labor of love, especially for the hundreds of volunteers that work with the Idaho Trails Association to maintain them.

10 reasons to go fishing during spring break

Fishing is a fun activity that can be enjoyed by all ages

Kootenai County commissioners weigh conduct, trespass ordinance

Kootenai County commissioners will consider a code of conduct for county property after an incident earlier this week involving a former county employee.

Coeur d'Alene, KEC reach 35-year deal

City received nearly $450K in franchise fees last year

On June 1, 1993, the ciyt adopted Ordinance No. 2519, which amended the agreement to increase the franchise fee to 5 percent (5%) of KEC’s gross operating revenues, with the fee in excess of 3% designated for the maintenance of streets and alleys.

Fish and Game hearing set for March 25.

The business meeting will resume at 8 a.m. MDT on March 26 at the same location. Public comments are not accepted during the business meeting, but it is open to the public and available via Zoom.

Here’s what IDFG biologists learned from two elk surveys

Results indicate how it could shape hunting next year

Fish and Game’s Elk Management plan establishes population objectives for each elk zone. Those objectives are influenced by a variety of factors, including Fish and Game’s responsibility to minimize agricultural depredations caused by elk. Those are substantial in both the Weiser River and Brownlee zones.

Legals for March, 20 2025

Finland is the happiest country in the world. US falls to its lowest-ever position

Country rankings were based on answers people give when asked to rate their own lives. The study was done in partnership with the analytics firm Gallup and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.

Kohberger defense files objection to text message evidence, says roommates were awake hours before calling 911

The defense team for the man accused in the murders of four University of Idaho students in November 2022 is arguing that text messages between the surviving roommates should not be admitted as evidence, because phone records show the roommates were awake for several hours before calling 911 on the morning of the killings.

Trump backs higher pay for wildland firefighters while DOGE cuts wildfire support staff

Wildland firefighters will keep a four-year-old pay hike under a GOP-led spending bill signed by President Donald Trump, but many worry that mass federal worker firings will leave the nation more vulnerable to wildfires.

Idaho Gov. Brad Little signs new law to cut Medicaid expansion. Here’s what it means

Idaho Gov. Brad Little on Wednesday signed into law a measure to curtail the state’s spending on its Medicaid expansion program, which provides health care coverage to lower-income Idaho residents. who earn too much to qualify for standard Medicaid but not enough for private insurance discounts.

Federal Reserve keeps interest rate unchanged, sees slower growth, slightly higher inflation ahead

The projections underscore the tight spot the Fed may find itself in this year: Higher inflation typically would lead the Fed to keep its key rate elevated, or even raise rates. On the other hand, slower growth and higher unemployment would often cause the Fed to cut rates to spur more borrowing and spending and lift the economy.

Idaho bill to allow dismissing unfounded abortion lawsuits against doctors heads for amendments

A bill that would outline a process for courts to dismiss unfounded abortion lawsuits brought against Idaho doctors is headed for amendments in the Idaho Senate.

Gov. Little signs bill that will reform the roles Idaho coroners have in death investigations

Bill is in response to watchdog report by Office of Performance of Evaluations that found inconsistencies in death investigations around the state

Iran celebrates ancient fire festival ahead of Persian New Year as tensions with US loom

The fire festival also features an Iranian version of trick-or-treating, with people going door to door and being given a holiday mix of nuts and berries, as well as buckets of water.

Violent attacks on Tesla dealerships spike as Musk takes prominent role in Trump White House

In Trump’s first term, his properties in New York, Washington and elsewhere became a natural place for protest. In the early days of his second term, Tesla is filling that role.

Newly released JFK assassination files reveal more about CIA but don't yet point to conspiracies

Larry J. Sabato, director of the University of Virginia Center for Politics and author of “The Kennedy Half-Century,” said it will take time to fully review the records.

OUT AND ABOUT with STEVE CAMERON: Seahawks seek stars, but could Shedeur be it?

We haven’t done an “Out and About” column in ages, and all sorts of unique things have popped up in the meantime. So, why not take a stroll to hither, thither and yon, and see what’s up?

Signing photos March 19, 2025

Area athletes sign to continue careers at the next level.

Buchanan, Mims, other locals enter portal

The 6-foot-11, 227-pound sophomore started 22 of 32 games this past season for the Cavaliers of the Atlantic Coast Conference, who finished 15-17 after a second-round loss in the ACC tournament.

PREP ROUNDUP: Vikings win opener under new coach

Results from Tuesday's prep baseball and softball games.

Youth Sports March 19, 2025

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

Northwest Notes: March 19, 2025

North Idaho College men's and women's basketball players earn postseason awards and Montana names new women's basketball coach.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Seth Martin, Post Falls High School

Post Falls High School senior wrestler Seth Martin is this week's Knudtsen Chevrolet Press Athlete of the Week.

Coeur d'Alene downtown survey to begin

Possible historic district designation would not affect property rights, say officials

“Property rights are pretty much sacred here,” said Walter Burns, chair of the city’s Historic Preservation Commission. “We're recognizing that. We’re not looking to make changes or do anything that would encumber anyone’s property right.”

Post Falls Rotary dedicates crosswalks to honor Mark Jones, others

Post Falls Rotary honors Mark Jones, founding members through crosswalks, signs

For a guy with a fairly common name, Mark Jones was an uncommon guy. He believed in the kids who fall through the cracks of society, the ones with difficult home lives who often find their way to juvenile detention. In his role managing the Post Falls School District's Alternative to Suspension Program, Jones led students to give back to their community through work at the Post Falls Community Garden and local seniors through the Meals on Wheels program. He led the charge for students to Stuff the Bus each year to support the food bank. Jones died June 15, 2024, but the work he did for the students and his community won't be forgotten. “He was a special guy,” said Mel Larson, a program coordinator with Third Avenue Marketplace.

CEO wants Kootenai Health to be 'anchor institution' in Post Falls

Kootenai Health is focused on the future of Post Falls when considering the population projection numbers in the next 20 years. At a Connect4Lunch event Tuesday through the Post Falls Chamber of Commerce, Kootenai Health CEO Jamie Smith stressed the importance of future facilities such as the recently announced Prairie Medical Campus.

Send us your fourth grade Arbor Day program stories and photos

Send us your fourth grade Arbor Day program stories and photos

Retired forest pathologist John Schwandt grew up in Illinois where he and his siblings received free trees for Arbor Day programs. "One of them is still there 70 years later," Schwandt said Monday. "I got interested in forestry partly as a result of that and made that my career. I’ve been very fortunate to have been out in the forest for 40-something years." chwandt, chair of the city of Coeur d'Alene's Urban Forestry Committee, served as Idaho's first forestry pathologist after he obtained a doctorate in forest diseases from the University of Idaho. "I've been in Coeur d'Alene since 1976," he said. "It was about then, because of the insect infestation problem around town, they started the forest pathology program." Having served on the Urban Forestry Committee since the 1980s, Schwandt is also a part of the nonprofit Arbor Day Organization of North Idaho. In conjunction with the city, the group has annually given away free seedlings to fourth graders since the program's inception 40 years ago.

North Idaho cities continue to grow as state population slows

Idaho’s ten largest counties accounted for 85.5% of the state’s total population growth last year, according to the newest data from the U.S. Census Bureau — including two Northern Idaho counties.

Angela Lynn Tortorelli, 46

Angela Lynn Tortorelli, 46, a cherished member of Post Falls, Idaho, entered into the presence of the Lord peacefully at her home on March 12, 2025. Angie was born on January 8, 1979, to John Tortorelli and Nancy Tortorelli (Mossuto) in Spokane, Washington.

OPINION: Let’s meet. Let’s talk

Former Congressmen Richard Stallings and Larry LaRocco invite all residents of Idaho's five northern counties to attend a public Town Hall from 2:30-4 p.m. Sunday, March 23 at Templin’s on the River, Post Falls. There is no fee to attend.

Hate flyers found in Coeur d'Alene

HREI leader urges people to call police, destroy them

It was sealed in plastic with the statement, “These flyers were distributed randomly without malicious intent.” It contained a sticker that referenced White Lives Matter. It also included references to Bible verses.

Florida man gets prison for lewd conduct

A man who prosecutors said sexually abused two teen girls will spend time in prison.

Carmen 'Joyce' Ulrich (Geren)

Carmen "Joyce" Ulrich (Geren) passed away on March 13, 2025, with her daughter Kriss by her side. She was born to Harold and Marie Geren on May 21, 1934, in Great Falls, Montana.

EDITORIAL: Tubbs Hill is worth caring for

The pages of the Tubbs Hill Foundation's 2024 Annual Report reveal the narrative of a community deeply invested in preserving one of North Idaho's precious natural spaces.

Maribee Sovereign, 72

Maribee Sovereign, 72 With hearts heavy yet filled with gratitude, we announce the peaceful passing of Maribee Sovereign, a cherished wife, devoted mother, loving grandmother, and steadfast friend, who entered into the loving embrace of her Savior, Jesus Christ, on March 11, 2025. Born in Oakridge, Tennessee, on May 20, 1952,

Bill to ban SNAP coverage for candy, soda heads to Senate

House Bill 109, cosponsored by Rep. Jordan Redman, R-Coeur d’Alene, would require the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to seek federal approval to exclude candy and soda from foods eligible for coverage by the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.

Hindsight provides for lessons learned

While it seems a lifetime ago, the beginning days of the COVID-19 pandemic in March of 2020 are only five years past. My column from this week back then was hopeful that it would be short-lived, that sanity and humanity would prevail and all would be right with the world. By the next week, March 25, 2020, the governor issued a stay-at-home order for all but essential workers in Idaho.

Dale Fredrick Newell, 82

Our beloved husband, father, brother and Papa, Dale Fredrick Newell, passed away suddenly on March 4, 2025. Born to Ruby and Bud Newell on February 28, 1943.

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — TMJ Disorder: Causes and solutions

The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is a joint that controls the movement of the jaw. In TMJ disorder (“TMD”, or “TMJ” — used interchangeably) is when the joint malfunctions.

OPINION: Washington is targeting veteran programs. We must defend our vets

Veteran programs are in the sights of Russell Vought, who currently controls America’s purse strings. The US Constitution gave Congress that crucial responsibility, but our present GOP Congress has largely given over its power to Vought, who is now the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in the White House. While multi-billionaire Elon Musk is slicing and dicing governmental agencies, Vought is making the financial calls that guide both Musk and the Congress. The consequences are starting to show up both on the national level and here in the Gem State.

Aerospace conference coming to Coeur d'Alene Resort

Program eyes youth for aerospace careers

The American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center may become a reality through the U.S. Department of Commerce Tech Hub award and industry commitments of over $50 million.

E-VERIFY: Illegal immigration should not be condoned

Regarding e verify if we want to curb illegal immigration all paid employees must be e verified. Employers would be fined if not in compliance.

Post Falls High School announces fall 2024 honor roll

Post Falls High School has announced its fall 2024 honor roll.

North Idaho College to host American Indian Heritage Week

North Idaho College will celebrate American Indian Heritage Week, events that highlight the culture and history of Native peoples, March 24 through March 28.

LIBRARIES: First Amendment rights are not being infringed

Words matter. Spoken or written, words are derived from thought/idea and promote further thought. Thoughts and ideas often become action. That said, some words are inappropriate, especially for the young, innocent and curious minds of children. At least theoretically, it’s up to the parents/guardians of children to decide what is appropriate and inappropriate. When we send our children to school or the public library, we trust that those temporarily in charge will protect them from inappropriate material. Perhaps mistakenly, we’d trusted others to share our moral values. Sadly, material that most parents deem inappropriate, had been introduced into those historically safe spaces and was easily accessible to anyone.

AMERICA’S SAD STORY: We are sick

Our public communications have descended into a Hell of sorts.

UKRAINE: Nuclear arms agreement wasn’t honored

In 1991, following the collapse of the Soviet Union, the newly independent country of Ukraine briefly became the third-largest nuclear power in the world. Moscow had left thousands of nuclear arms in Ukraine. In an agreement with Russia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, Ukraine allowed the weapons to be returned to Russia for decommissioning. In return for this, the U.S., the U.K., and Russia were to guarantee Ukraine’s security.

MEASLES: Remembering the American Revolution

Remember from our history that George Washington had to fight to save his troops from smallpox. Washington was losing more troops to smallpox than in the battles of the Revolutionary War. He was the first to begin mass inoculation for military troops in February 1777, after smallpox infections escalated. A small amount of live smallpox was rubbed into a wound, inserted into a small incision in the arm or scratched into the skin.

RATHDRUM: Needs a swimming pool

Where’s the water? Dear Rathdrum Mayor, Mike Hill; how do we get a swimming pool for our citizens? Rathdrum Mountain has expanded their hiking trails and Frisbee golf courses. Rathdrum has very nice walking/running/biking/four-wheel trails. We need a 50-meter swimming pool.

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT: Scope is limited

The duties of the federal government authorized by the U.S. Constitution are quite limited in scope, one being to promote the general welfare.

DOGE: Chaos created

In reading the U.S. Forest Service Ax Manual: One Moving Part, I was reminded of DOGE and the chaos they have created.

Idaho Tax Commission staffs up to handle school choice tax credit

State budget writers on Tuesday approved seven additional full-time staff for the Idaho Tax Commission to handle the extra work related to the newly passed school choice tax credit.

Choosing your power of attorney agents: Critical considerations for Idaho residents

When creating your estate plan in Idaho, selecting the right agents for your financial and medical powers of attorney is among the most consequential decisions you'll make. These individuals will have significant authority to make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. Here's what Idaho residents should consider when making these important choices.

Idaho Legislature unanimously passes media shield law bill protecting journalists’ sources

Both chambers of the Idaho Legislature — on unanimous, bipartisan votes — passed a bill that would create a media shield law protecting sources who provide confidential information or documents to journalists.

Legals for March, 19 2025

Bill to ban SNAP coverage for candy, soda heads to Idaho Senate

Supporters see it as an important health step. Critics, including business industry, say definitions are unworkably broad.

Trump and Putin agree to an immediate ceasefire for energy and infrastructure in Ukraine conflict

President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed during a lengthy call Tuesday to an immediate pause in strikes against energy and infrastructure targets in the Ukraine war, but the Russian leader stopped short of backing a broader 30-day pause in fighting that the U.S. administration is pressing for.

‘Stonewalling’: Forest Service mum on firings during wildfire briefing for congressional staff

USFS officials refused more than 10 times in meeting with Southwestern congressional staffers to say how many employees had been fired

US births rose last year, but experts don't see it as a trend

U.S. births rose slightly last year, but experts don't see it as evidence of reversing a long-term decline.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Houston fans not happy with Zags' seeding either

Look, I’m not going to predict that the Zags will just wallop Georgia and then Houston. I WILL say, though, that the Zags have proven they can compete, bucket by bucket, with anybody. But. Win? Let’s see, eh?

Silver Valley Sports Recap: March 10-16

Baseball and softball open in Kellogg; Youth sports and all-league basketball teams announced.

Rosters announced for District 1 All-Star Game

The annual senior showcase is one of the signature events for District 1’s hardwood standouts, but it’s also a major event for the Mullan Jr./Sr. High School’s athletic department.

NCAA TOURNAMENT • Zags assigned to Wichita as No. 8 seed in NCAAs ... Bulldogs open vs. Georgia on Thursday

The eighth-seeded Zags (25-8) will play No. 8 Georgia (20-12) on Thursday (1:35 p.m. PDT, TBS) in Wichita, Kan., in a first-round game of the NCAA tournament.

Post Falls superintendent gives levy talk at American Legion

The Post Falls School District runs an average daily attendance rate of 92.6%. "Which means that each year, we lose 7.4% of our operational funding — funding that should be coming to us from the state of Idaho," Post Falls Superintendent Dena Naccarato said Monday evening. “The only way for us to actualize 100% of our funding is for 100% of our students to be present 100% of the time," she said.

Silver Valley woman found guilty of drug charges

A Silver Valley woman is facing up to seven years in prison after a jury returned a guilty verdict last Wednesday in Shoshone County’s District Court.

THE DIRT: Completion of priority cleanup activities in the Ninemile Basin

All priority cleanup activities in the East Fork Ninemile (EFNM) Basin have been successfully completed, marking a significant milestone in environmental cleanup efforts.

PREP ROUNDUP March 18, 2025

Poor weather wiped out all Monday games involving local teams.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

If you wear cowboy clothes are you ranch dressing?

Gem State’s average gas price is 19 cents cheaper than a year ago

Idaho once again held steady in 11th place for the most expensive fuel, with regional neighbors in Washington ($4.08), Nevada ($3.73) and Oregon ($3.72) paying more while drivers in Montana ($3.11), Utah ($3.03), Wyoming ($3.01) and Colorado ($2.93) are paying less.

Harold Lee Stillwell, 82

Harold Lee Stillwell, 82, of Kellogg, ID, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on March 13, 2025, at his home in Kellogg. Harold was born on July 22, 1942, in Texas.

Ralph Donald Haak, 88, & Nancy Jean Haak, 90

Nancy (Polhemus) Haak, 90, of Rocky River, Ohio, died on Mar. 6, 2025, surrounded by family in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Her beloved husband, Ralph Haak, 88, of Cleveland, Ohio, followed her in death on Mar. 8, 2025, also surrounded by family in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Free music workshops offer mental health tools

Free workshops featuring Coeur d’Alene Symphony musicians will teach community members how to use music as a tool to support mental health.

Mary Etta White, 89

Mary Etta White of Rose Lake, Idaho passed away February 16, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona after a brief illness. Mary Etta was born February 24, 1935, in Cheney, Washington to Albert and Adna Calvert.

Man gets prison for lewd conduct, child sexual abuse

A man who prosecutors said raped a teen girl will spend up to 25 years in prison.

Flood Awareness Week: Snowmelt, seasonal rains add to risk

The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) is joining the annual observance to remind Idahoans of the importance of flood preparedness and awareness, especially as spring snowmelt and seasonal rains increase the risk of flooding across the state.

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail.

Chip Shots March 18, 2025

Scores, news, etc., from local golf courses, leagues, etc.

Idaho budget writers approve Medicaid budget, including expected savings from Medicaid reform bill

The state budget writers have passed the largest budget this year, with members narrowly advancing Medicaid appropriations on Monday.

Idaho Senate approves property tax relief bill, bringing tax cuts to $400 million this year

The Idaho Senate on Monday approved a bill that puts $100 million toward lowering property tax bills. The bill heads to the governor and will bring the total of tax relief bills passed this session to more than $400 million.

Jay Faraca, 67

Jay Anthony Faraca, 67, of Newman Lake, Washington, passed away on February 19, 2025 in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. He was born on February 26, 1957 in Kellogg, Idaho; the son of Ray and Mary Rae Faraca.

Kristen Martindale, 38

Kristen D. Martindale, born March 31, 1986, in Tacoma, Wash., passed away peacefully February 22nd, 2025, in Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho, with her family by her side.

Legals for March, 18 2025

Business expo moves to April 7 at fairgrounds

The free, annual event put on by the Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber provides businesses with the opportunity to showcase their job openings, products and services to the regional workforce and public, a press release said.

Part of U.S. 95 remains closed after landslide

Steady rain caused a “few hundred feet of downhill landslide of the roadway shoulder,” the department said in a Monday news release.

Residents pick up the pieces after devastating storms scour the US South and Midwest

Atchison and her family were among the fortunate ones to avoid being killed in the three-day outbreak of severe weather across eight states that kicked up a devastating combination of wildfires, dust storms and tornadoes — claiming at least 42 lives since Friday.

Little issues disaster declaration: Flooding fears rise in Kootenai County

Little issues disaster declaration in Kootenai County

Little said the combination of damaged infrastructure and rising runoff creates a dangerous scenario.

Idaho Legislature’s budget committee sets Medicaid budget close to governor’s requests

Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee swiftly sets supplemental and enhancement budgets for Idaho Medicaid

Ukraine and Russia have conditions that could affect a ceasefire. What are they willing to concede?

As he disclosed that he will talk to Putin on Tuesday, Trump said that land and power plants are part of the conversation around bringing the war to a close, a process he described as “dividing up certain assets.”

St. Patrick's Day brings boisterous parades and celebrations to New York and other cities

Mayor Eric Adams donned a green cap and scarf and waved an Irish flag while Catholic Archbishop Timothy Dolan greeted marchers wearing a green, white and orange sash -- the national colors of the Emerald Isle.

Monday TV/Radio highlights

Television, radio highlights for Monday, March 17.

Women's Gift Alliance visits grant recipient Lake City Playhouse

Women's Gift Alliance visits grant recipient Lake City Playhouse

The old lights in the Lake City Playhouse theater were installed in the 1960s, and even then, they were secondhand.

Empty Bowls, but full hearts: Fundraiser helps Post Falls children stay fed

This year’s Empty Bowls fundraiser is all about warming the heart by helping keep children fed through the Children’s Weekend Backpack program over a beautifully crafted bowl of soup. Program coordinator Mel Larson said that the backpack program means that kids aren’t going hungry on the weekends when they are away from school.

Lake City High School students hone art skills to advertise clubs

Art teacher Cynthia Chapman never knew just how many clubs and sports teams existed at Lake City High School until her students began an art and advertising project this February.

A volcano in Alaska may erupt soon

A volcano near Anchorage, Alaska, called Mount Spurr, has been rumbling.

Lake Coeur d'Alene elevation may increase this week

Lake Coeur d’Alene water levels increased by about three feet from Feb. 23-27 and has been holding steady at 2124.97 as of Friday morning. According to Avista Utilities, the elevation is about three feet below maximum level it reaches during the summer time.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Heard about the leprechaun who got the secretary job? They say he was great at shorthand.

Man allegedly stabs self, forces Ponderay Walmart closure

An unknown male surrendered peacefully after he allegedly walked into the Ponderay Walmart early Sunday afternoon with a knife and made unspecified threats.

IDAHO ALL-STAR GAMES: All options open ... Area seniors mull college futures after Saturday's state all-star games at North Idaho College

Shay Shippen, the Columbia-bound guard from Skyline High in Idaho Falls, scored 12 points to earn MVP honors as the Region (rest of Idaho) defeated the Metro (Boise area) 89-61 in the 22nd annual Idaho All-Star Games at North Idaho College’s Christianson Gymnasium on Saturday. Owyhee’s Jayce Allen, playing for the Metro boys, was MVP with 16 points in a 123-119 win.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: A college hoops week with increased local interest

WHAT WAS interesting during Championship Week — shortened to Champ Week by ESPN in recent years so they could make the word bigger on the TV screen — was all the conference tournament games which involved teams with players with North Idaho ties.

PREP ROUNDUP: North Idaho Distance Project runners second at Nike indoor nationals

The team finished in 17 minutes, 10.47 seconds to earn All-American honors.

COLLEGE WOMEN'S GOLF: Cardinals finish fifth in Vegas

NIC competes in the Warrior Spring Classic March 24-25 at Lewiston Country Club.

Community Library Network’s new policies could fracture regional library consortium

For decades, the Community Information Network has enabled libraries in North Idaho and eastern Washington to share their collections and broadened patrons’ access to materials. Now a restrictive policy for minor library cardholders in the Community Library Network, unlike any other in the library consortium, could mean that patrons across the region lose access to library materials.

Luck of the Irish shines on Coeur d'Alene parade

The luck of the Irish was on the side of paradegoers along Sherman Avenue Saturday afternoon, as the sun peaked through an otherwise drizzly sky just in time for the St. Patrick’s Day parade.

Firefighter's fight with lymphoma fuels passion for stair climb

Firefighter's fight with lymphoma fuels passion for stair climb

Dylan Browning’s Silver Valley roots go deep. After getting a job at Northern Lakes Fire Protection District last year, he still volunteers as a firefighter in Shoshone County. Joined by fellow North Idaho firefighters on Sunday, he put his body through its paces as part of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Firefighter Stair Climb on Sunday in Seattle.

B. Boulangerie brings taste of France to North Idaho

Newly opened B. Boulangerie is bringing a taste of authentic French and European pastry to North Idaho.

HUCKLEBERRIES: Working from home

As “Amazing Grace” set to debut April 1, 1995, locals wondered: “Will it get picked up?”

The global power shift: Why Idaho must build its own future

As global power structures shift and economic uncertainty looms, a Coeur d’Alene resident has a message: This is a time of reckoning—but also a time of opportunity.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

What does it mean if you find a horseshoe in Ireland?

KROC: Thanks for food drive

The Kroc Center and patrons recently had a food drive for local pantries and we are the lucky recipient of their generosity.

DATA CENTERS: Many don’t use large amounts of water

The story about a moratorium on data centers doesn’t ring accurate to me. I worked in very large data centers in my career and none of them used large amounts of water for cooling.

DEMOCRATS: Values aren’t shared with most Americans

During President Trump’s address to Congress on March 4, the Democratic side of the assembly displayed an appalling lack of civility and decorum, as should befit their position as the people’s representatives. Nothing Trump said, no matter how positive, could stir them from their turpitude. They demonstrated that they do not support the values or concerns of most Americans.

FOREST SERVICE: Just another bloated department

USFS in Idaho will not lose enough employees full time or seasonal to matter the real work for the USFS is done by contractors, bidding for the work, the USFS does not clean your toilets, or haul your garbage, or road work, or cleanup…etc.

TOWN HALL: Plenty of blame to be shared

After reading about the KCRCC Town Hall meeting and the fiasco afterward I have come to the following conclusions.

TARIFFS: Unnecessary strain on working class

President Trump’s ongoing tariff war with Canada, Mexico and China is a political action taken at the expense of our country’s financial health. According to CBS News, the United States imports a total of $85 billion in agricultural products from Canada and Mexico every year. When subjected to a 25% tariff, the cost of those products will rise substantially. The electronics industry will face a similar struggle. Many of the materials used in our electronics, such as integrated circuits and fixed capacitors, are imported from China. A paper released by the Joint Electronic Committee estimated that President Trump’s proposed 20% tariff will increase the total cost of electronics by 11%, forcing even large vendors like Best Buy and Target to increase their prices dramatically.

NIC: Music department deserves accolades

We have a treasure in North Idaho College. The music department of NIC deserves many accolades. On Tuesday evening the music department performed a collection of classics performed by the Cardinal Chorale and Chamber Singers.

True friends are a business must

As a prank, a student stuck a paper on a classmate's back that read, "I'm stupid." He told all his friends not to tell the student, and they spent the day laughing quietly behind his back.

EDITORIAL: Getting the green light on Government Way

The old joke road construction being a season in Idaho seems to need updating. Thanks to our unusually mild winter, Coeur d'Alene is getting an early start on what promises to be a significant improvement to one of our city's main arteries.

5 frequently overlooked elements in Idaho estate plans

As an Idaho estate planning attorney, I've helped many clients navigate the complexities of preparing for their future. While most people understand the importance of having a will or trust, and power of attorney documents, there are several critical elements that frequently get overlooked.

Critics warn staff cuts at federal agencies overseeing US dams could put public safety at risk

Trump administration workforce cuts at federal agencies overseeing U.S. dams are threatening their ability to provide reliable electricity, supply farmers with water and protect communities from floods, employees and industry experts warn.

Trump signs a bill funding the government for 6 months, avoiding a shutdown

President Donald Trump has signed into law legislation funding the government through the end of September, ending the threat of a partial government shutdown and capping off a struggle in Congress that deeply divided Democrats.

Idaho Legislature’s budget committee approves funding for wildfires, bonuses for firefighters

State legislators did not provide full funding to fight wildfires recommended by Gov. Brad Little, land board

Bryan Kohberger defense looks to Daybell ruling in Idaho in push against death penalty

Bryan Kohberger’s defense team is employing a legal argument used successfully in another high-profile Idaho murder case in another attempt to take capital punishment off the table.

THE FRONT ROW with JASON ELLIOTT: Not quite the finish we had in mind

Now, we’ll have to wait and see what happens next.

PREP ROUNDUP: Lake City softball opens with split

Results from Friday's prep softball, track and field and baseball contests.

Final rosters announced for annual Idaho all-star games

The seniors-only event features some of the best players from around the state, with teams divided from the Treasure Valley (Metro) against the rest of Idaho (Region).

COLLEGE WOMEN'S GOLF: Cardinals seventh after first day in Vegas

The tournament concludes today.

Tubbs Hill a major attraction

Nearly 400,000 visited popular hiking trails

David Taylor, president of the Tubbs Hill Foundation, said 2024 was a good year and once again, the numbers bear this out.

Protein for people, better lives for livestock

New nonprofit provides fresh protein to area food banks

Michelle Paxton and Wade Traphagen have long been generous with the spoils of their farm, which sits on about 50 acres in rural southern Bonner County.

Milken Award-winning educator shares teaching style, tips during lab sessions in Coeur d'Alene

Milken Award-winning educator shares teaching style, tips during lab sessions

He walked around his colorful and ambiently lit classroom, stopping at different desks to check in with small student groups as his pupils worked their way to cylinder volume answers using the V=πr^2h formula.

Mom Prom will be April 12 at Coeur d'Alene Eagles

Mom Prom will be April 12 at Coeur d'Alene Eagles

Sometimes, she might only be known as "Mother," "Mama," "Mommy" or "Mom." She wakes her kids up for school, makes meals for the family, does the dishes, folds the laundry and tucks everyone in at night. She gives the best hugs and kisses away the pain from bumped heads and scraped knees. Her advice is wisdom. Her support is unwavering. Her love is unconditional. Yes, she is Mom, but she's also a daughter, a sister, a wife, a girlfriend and a woman who sometimes needs to kick up her heels and be reminded of her awesomeness. Two words: Mom Prom.

A new century for Spirit Lake shopkeeper

Helen Campilli reached a new century on Feb. 27.

Robert James MacKenzie, 84

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Robert "Bob" MacKenzie. Bob, beloved husband, dad, grandpa, uncle and friend, passed peacefully in his sleep on December 9, 2024, at the Schneidmiller House of Hospice of North Idaho. He was born in Bakersfield, CA on January 5, 1940, to John W. and Vivian E. (Auld) MacKenzie.

PET TALK: When hearing hurts: Managing middle ear problems in flat-faced dog breeds

From their adorable snort to bulging eyes and ever-endearing waddle, smush-faced dogs are increasing in popularity due to their cuteness and fun-loving personalities.

Jeffrey 'Jeff' Peter Harrison, 75

Jeffrey Peter Harrison, 75, of Worley, Idaho, died on February 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Jeff was born in Manchester, Connecticut, on November 1, 1949, the eldest child of Albert W. and Claire (deMontigny) Harrison.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

How did the Irish musician fix his instrument?

Ironman: Old man versus the kids

I am excited, and yet, I also have reservations about swimming 1.2 miles, biking 56 and running 13.1. The primary concern is I don’t do a lot of swimming or biking, which explains why I am slow at both.

Mystery Gourd, it was nice growing you

Before I dip my fingers into the soil and start mapping out my gardening ambitions this spring, I would be remiss if I didn't share a rather fun story of a curious Cucurbita that was a pleasant surprise last growing season.

Lake City High School announces fall 2024 honor roll

Lake City High School has announced its fall 2024 honor roll.

School and Senior Meals

School and Senior Meals: March 17-21

Bong Joon-ho’s ‘Mickey 17’ a shaggy, ambitious satire

Multiple Robert Pattinsons, frequent tonal whiplash and some an alien planet full of "creepers" highlight the latest English-language film by Bong Joon-ho, the South Korean filmmaker behind 2019’s Oscar-winning “Parasite.”

Title Night fun at Ramsey Magnet School

Families were welcomed to Ramsey Magnet School of Science to celebrate the work of their students March 6 for a superhero-themed Title Night.

The Exhausted Dad: Dog betrayed by children doing human activities

Our family’s new dog, Marley, would like to speak to the manager.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Who did Cinderella meet at the St. Patrick's Day Ball?

Wilburn Loyd Owens, 91

Wilburn Loyd Owens, 91, passed away on March 2, 2025, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Born on July 26, 1933, in Broken Bow, Oklahoma

Grizzly comment period extended

Today, USFWS announced the extension of its comment period on its proposed rule for the species’ management, and legal experts and scientists are weighing in, detailing the mounting human-caused threats to the bears, and urging USFWS to adopt updated measures to ensure grizzlies’ longterm survival.

Funding for foster care ombudsmen sparks confusion among Idaho legislators

The fate of the recently established foster care ombudsman office is unclear amid somewhat conflicting budget decisions, unclear budget committee rules, and a proposed policy bill that was rejected over confusion.

Legals for March, 15 2025

Aircraft catches fire after landing in Denver, sending passengers onto wing as smoke engulfs plane

Flight 1006 was headed from the Colorado Springs to Dallas Fort Worth on Thursday but diverted to Denver after the crew reported engine vibrations. It landed safely around 5:15 p.m., the Federal Aviation Administration said in a statement. An engine on the Boeing 737-800 caught fire as it taxied to the gate, the FAA added.

SpaceX launches a new crew to the space station to replace NASA's stuck astronauts

NASA wants overlap between the two crews so Wilmore and Williams can fill in the newcomers on happenings aboard the orbiting lab. That would put them on course for an undocking next week and a splashdown off the Florida coast, weather permitting.

Athol man killed in crash on U.S. 95

A crash in Bonner County resulted in a fatality on Friday morning, according to Idaho State Police. The collision occurred just before 9:59 a.m. on U.S. Highway 95 near mile post 487, north of Samuels.

911 call made morning of University of Idaho murders made public

The 911 call made by roommates and neighbors of the four University of Idaho killed in an off-campus house in November of 2022 has been made public.

U.S. pauses Columbia River water-sharing negotiations with Canada amid Trump threats

Under Columbia River Treaty, Canada controls the flow of the Northwest’s largest river from its headwaters in British Columbia

How much do you need to make to be middle class in Idaho? New study reveals the range

Idaho’s median household income is right around $75,000, while Boise’s is a little higher at $81,308, according to the Census Bureau’s latest five-year rolling estimates.

Portion of Ramsey Road in Hayden to close starting Monday

Ramsey Road will be closed to both northbound and southbound traffic between Hayden Avenue and Lacey Ave. starting Monday.

Woman dies in Benewah County crash

A gray 2018 Toyota Highlander, with two occupants, was initially traveling westbound on Lovell Valley Road. The vehicle drove off the roadway, crashed into a ditch, rolled, and came to rest in a treed area. Upon arrival, a 45 year-old female of Omak, WA, was found to be deceased. The other occupant, 32 year-old female of Plummer, ID, managed to contact a local homeowner who then called emergency services. The surviving occupant was transported to a local hospital by air ambulance for treatment.

Millions of people celebrate Holi, the Hindu festival of colors

Across the country, people, mostly dressed in all white clothes, celebrated the festival by hurling colored powder at each other. Children, perched on rooftops and balconies, flung water balloons filled with colored pigments at passers by.

Former reality TV star Jessie Holmes wins longest-ever Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race in Alaska

“It’s hard to put into words, but it’s a magical feeling," Holmes said shortly after crossing the finish line. “It’s not about this moment now. It’s about all those moments along the trail.”

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: The difference between the hoop from deep and the NET for the Zags

Amazingly, the Zags WON the conference title game despite going 1 of 15 from deep.

REGION 18 WOMEN'S BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT: Turnovers cost Cardinals early, late ... NIC bows out in semis of conference tournament

NIC finishes 17-13.

PREP TRACK AND FIELD: Viking freshmen Henry, Morgenstern compete in Nike national meet

A handful of other Coeur d'Alene High runners are scheduled to compete at the meet, which runs through Sunday.

Signing photos March 14, 2025

Locals commit to play at the next level.

Mike Delaney will lead St. Patrick's Day Parade in Coeur d'Alene

Mike Delaney will lead St. Patrick's Day Parade in Coeur d'Alene on Saturday

Delaney’s roots landed him the title of grand marshal for Saturday’s 20th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade presented by the Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association in partnership with ICCU.

North Idaho Christian School students package over 10,000 meals for Bangladesh

North Idaho Christian School students package over 10,000 meals for Bangladesh

Packaging over 10,000 meals in one day is no easy task, but the students at North Idaho Christian School met the challenge with enthusiasm on Thursday.

A taste of spring in Coeur d'Alene

Home and Garden Show begins three-day run at fairgrounds

North Idaho Home and Garden Show presented by the North Idaho Building Contractor’s Association run noon to 6 today, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.

Idaho grocery tax credit to rise

Will go to $155 from $120

The new law increases the grocery tax credit all Idahoans receive to $155 a year. Currently, most Idahoans receive a grocery tax credit of $120 per year.

Shoshone County sheriff responds to post questioning inmate's death

The Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office released a lengthy statement on Wednesday night regarding the November death of an inmate after an anonymous social media post encouraged people to take a closer look at the circumstances surrounding the man's death.

Northwest Notes March 14, 2025

Diane is the first female from Idaho to earn this recognition, the first in the past 19 years and only the fifth recipient in the history of Idaho.

Jack McAvoy, 61

Jack Francis McAvoy,61, passed away on March 6, 2025. Born on June 23, 1963, Jack grew up in California before making Idaho his home.

The Little Gym in Post Falls hosts World Down Syndrome Day event

On Friday, March 21 as a celebration of World Down Syndrome Day, The Little Gym Post Falls is hosting a free family event on behalf of the Down Syndrome Connections Northwest community.

MY TURN: Fear, anxiety and fury

Eventually, after requesting from Senator Crapo and Senator Risch their personal assurances that my financial information, residing within the purview of the U.S. Treasury, would be protected from the likes of Elon Musk and his operatives, I did hear back from Senator Crapo. He informed me that DOGE service was established as a temporary organization through a lawful Executive Order, and he also intimated that Elon Musk basically has the authority to be doing what he is doing as a designated “special government employee” until sunset on July 4, 2026. I am not certain the courts fully agree with him; nevertheless, he continued by stating that he “applauded the efforts to maximize government efficiency and productivity.”

Pop-up poetry tonight at Emerge

Community members are invited to "tell a story, get a poem" with Coeur d'Alene's first poet laureate, Jennifer Passaro, from 5-8 tonight at Emerge, 119 N. 2nd St., Coeur d'Alene.

‘I Never Saw Another Butterfly’ opens tonight at Lake City Playhouse

Lake City Playhouse's production of Celeste Raspanti's poignant play, "I Never Saw Another Butterfly, opens at 7:30 tonight and will run through March 30.

Northwest Improv Fest to bring the funnies April 3-5

Three days of unscripted comedy will come to the area April 3-5 during the 2025 Northwest Improv Fest.

RUSSIA: How soon we forget

Our president, Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance have recently chosen to support Fascist Russian leader Vladimir Putin in his conquest of Ukraine. How soon we forget all the 94,000 United States military personnel who died fighting Communist aggression during the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

CHRISTIANITY: Values have changed

Forget bad drivers — what’s happened to Christianity? Growing up, I was taught Christian values: service, mercy and faith. Now I see glorification of wealth, neglect of the vulnerable and outright rejection of Christ’s teachings. Who balked when Rev. Budde preached a basic gospel message? Why do they call him ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do as he says? (Luke 6:46) G.K. Chesterton observed: “The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting. It has been found difficult; and left untried.” Perhaps some church leaders found Christ’s teachings too hard, and invented a religion where they can avoid them.

MEDICAID: Fox in the henhouse?

“The Only Thing Necessary For The Triumph of Evil Is for Good Men To Do Nothing.” And because they paid attention, spoke up, and peacefully strived for what was right, that quote now includes women. There are so many extreme, narrow-minded bills currently being proposed and moving along in the Idaho Legislature, it is easy to lose sight of them.

TOWN HALL: Not a First Amendment issue

In response to recent national media attention over a local event, it’s important to remember what is and is not a First Amendment right.

TOWN HALL: Disruption deprived others

It seems surprising that there is so much support for the person who tried to disrupt a recent town hall meeting.

ONE WAY ROAD: Craziness

Regarding Hayden Lake residents propose one-way traffic for portion of Lakeview Drive, I totally agree with Mark Lord; that is crazy.

OPINION: Party Dysphoria

“It is not a criminal violation to enter the country illegally. It’s not. It’s not criminal. It’s not a crime. It’s not a crime.” Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Why should you avoid talking to Pi at a party?

Weekend TV/Radio highlights

Television, radio and streaming highlights for upcoming weekend.

MEDICAID: Cuts could put seniors on the streets

If Medicaid is cut, the 64% of Idaho seniors in nursing homes will be put out either into their relatives’ care or on the street according to the estimate I found today. With the few paying seniors left, many nursing homes will just close.

MEDICAID: Developmentally disabled can’t meet work requirement

When discussing Medicaid Expansion it is a misleading half-truth for Idaho Legislators to state that there are, “70,000 able-bodied people on the expansion” for two major reasons. First, as an example, some of the able-bodied are developmentally disabled and you often see them already working the required 20 hours a week in places such as grocery stores bagging your groceries. They work hard. Many are not able to drive, so they walk or ride a bike to work. These able-bodied workers are not “unfit” which they would have to be unjustly declared by a doctor to qualify for Medicaid as per HB345. They have difficulties and need Medicaid Expansion services and HB345 could kick them off assistance.

Idaho bill allowing foster youth to stay in the system until they're 23 approved by Senate

The Idaho Senate on Thursday passed a bill to allow eligible foster youth to stay in the system until age 23.

Hayden Cinema movie times

Hayden Cinema movie times

Blanche E. Adams, 86

Blanche E. Adams, 86, Kingston, passed away, Tuesday, March 11, 2025. Blanche was born March 2, 1939, in Wallace

Kanine Parker to hold book signing March 22

Kanine Parker to hold book signing March 22

A homeschooled 10th grader and newly self-published author in Kootenai County released her debut novel Monday and will be holding her first book signing at 1 p.m. March 22 at EntertainMart, 185 E. Appleway Ave., Coeur d'Alene.

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail.

Kellogg tries to revitalize uptown, find new home for library

What community hubs or businesses would you like to see grow in uptown Kellogg? During a virtual presentation through Rural Minds on Wednesday, Paige Olsen of the Silver Valley Economic Development Corporation spoke of some pending projects and visions for uptown Kellogg. Concerns over “dying buildings” left vacant as their infrastructure deteriorates has been a major concern for Olsen since she became executive director three years ago.

EDITORIAL: If you love a parade, volunteer

Tomorrow’s St. Patrick’s Day parade in Coeur d’Alene notwithstanding, parade season in our local communities begins in earnest at least three months from now. The City of Post Falls is striking up the band early with an updated ordinance to cover future processions in the city. The need for updating was first discussed with the council in May of last year and at the March 4, 2025 council meeting a draft ordinance was brought forward. The proposed revisions were reviewed and discussed. The crux of the updating is as simple as the realization that “we’ve always done it this way,” isn’t a solid reason to continue the city’s responsibilities, which according to the city administrator is unsustainable. For the Post Falls Festival Parade, the City was providing to the organizers traffic management, security, assistance with planning, golf carts, traffic cones, clipboards, promotional sandwich boards and approximately $11,000 in staffing costs, primarily from the police department. Post Falls is no longer a small town of several thousand, it’s a thriving city of nearly 50,000 people. It makes sense that public safety and the allocation of resources, both human and financial, are a priority for the City. The mayor and council are entrusted with being good stewards of public money and by clearly outlining organizers’ responsibilities for community events they’re doing just that. The parade-going public might not realize just how much time, energy and money go into producing an hour or so of entertainment on sunny summer days. In every case, from the granddaddy of them all, Coeur d’Alene’s 4th of July Parade, to Hayden Days and the three-block-long Rathdrum Days Parade, generous sponsors and entry fees cover the expenses and dedicated volunteers do the heavy lifting. Somewhere along the way the City of Post Falls stepped into the Post Falls Festival Parade breach, filling roles traditionally held by volunteers. This reset via ordinance simply clarifies roles and responsibilities moving forward for this and other events. It’s also a reminder to the community just how vital volunteers are to special events and activities that enhance our quality of life here in beautiful north Idaho. If you love a parade, volunteer!

Bill seeking to pull 10 seats from Western medical education consortium passes Idaho House

A bill to reduce at least 10 seats from Idaho’s partnership with the University of Washington medical school and other Western states advanced out of the House Thursday.

Teens invited to share Idaho adventures through multimedia contest

Teens are invited to share their outdoor adventures through the My Life Outdoors: Teen Multimedia Contest. Idaho Public Television announced its partnership with LifeOutdoors, an environmental education, research and advocacy nonprofit, along with the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation and Idaho Press, to continue this opportunity for Idaho teens ages 13-18 for a second year. The My Life Outdoors: Teen Multimedia Contest invites young explorers to submit written essays and videos. This initiative aims to celebrate the connection between Idaho's youth and the environment while encouraging others to embark on their own outdoor journeys.

Legals for March, 14 2025

Planned water shutdown to impact areas of Post Falls tonight

The City of Post Falls water division will be conducting a planned water shutdown beginning 10 p.m. tonight until 5 a.m. Friday morning.

Idaho State Police dispatchers recognized for investigative work leading to arrest in January shooting

A man has been arrested following January shooting on I-90, according to a press release from the Idaho State Police.

Judge orders Trump to reinstate probationary workers let go in mass firings across multiple agencies

The temporary restraining order came in a lawsuit filed by a coalition of labor unions and organizations as the Republican administration moves to dramatically downsize the federal workforce.

Iconic pet reindeer in Alaska falls mysteriously ill after someone tampers in his pen

In early January, someone cut a huge hole in the fencing to gain entrance, spending about five minutes inside with Star before taking off. What the person did in the pen is unknown, but Star began having stomach issues and dropping weight shortly after.

Don't click on those road toll texts. FBI issues fresh warning about the smishing scam

The FBI is warning Americans not to respond to scam road toll collection texts after receiving more than 2,000 complaints this month.

Lauren Necochea reelected as Idaho Democratic Party’s chairwoman

Idaho Democratic Party chairwoman Lauren Necochea will retain her leadership role after the party’s state central committee reelected her to the position on March 8.

Communal sweating in saunas is the hottest wellness trend taking over the UK

Sauna-bathing has taken London and the rest of the U.K. by storm, particularly among trendy 20- and 30-somethings interested in trying a new pastime that's healthier than nights out in pubs and bars.

REGION 18 WOMEN'S BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT: Cardinals shake off illness, prep for Snow

The North Idaho College women’s basketball enters this week’s Region 18 Tournament as the third seed and will face second-seeded Snow in the opening game today at 4 p.m. PDT on the campus of College of Southern Idaho in Twin Falls.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: What might have been, and other thoughts from state

Those who thought Lake City might go away for a while after the Kolton Mitchell-Blake Buchanan-Zach Johnson-Nathan Hocking squad moved on to college in 2023 were wrong. The T-Wolves brought trophies home from state the next two years, and played in the state title game for the third time in five seasons. And the Lake City JV and freshman teams went undefeated this season.

PREP BASEBALL: Timberlake takes two from Lakeland to open season

Timberlake travels to Potlatch on Friday. Lakeland visits Lewiston on Saturday for a doubleheader.

Signing photos March 13, 2025

Area athletes sign to continue careers at next level.

AT COLLEGE March 13, 2025

Updates on area athletes at the next level.

Northwest Notes March 13, 2025

Gonzaga's Ben Gregg was named to the inaugural Allstate and the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) Good Works Team for the winter.

Coming soon: Prairie Medical Campus

Kootenai Health, MultiCare plan micro-hospital, medical offices in Post Falls

Phase one of the Prairie Medical Campus will include a 25,000-square-foot micro-hospital with an emergency department, imaging services, and rooms for overnight patient stays. It will also include a 65,000-square-foot multi-story medical office building that will initially be home to an ambulatory surgery center, clinic offices and lab services.

Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office swears in new K-9

Community members gathered Wednesday at the Kootenai North facility in Hayden to welcome the newest member of the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, a 12-month-old Belgian Malinois named Spike.

Coeur d'Alene support group hosting upcoming events for patients, families, caregivers

Coeur d'Alene support group hosting upcoming events for patients, families, caregivers

On and off. In the world of Parkinson's disease, "on" is often used to communicate that medication is working and symptoms are under control. "'Off' is when your symptoms are not necessarily controlled, and every Parkinson's patient's 'off' is somewhat unique to them," Jennifer Martin, a drug representative from Abbvie Pharmaceuticals, said March 6 during a Coeur d'Alene Parkinson's Support Group meeting at the Coeur d'Alene Elks Lodge.

Tearing down the walls

Crews demolish the former home of Lyfe Coffee House on Lakeside Avenue between First and Second streets on Wednesday as site work continues to make way for the 15-story Sherman Tower.

Closures expected as Glacier National Park repairs infrastructure systems

Some of the Glacier National Park’s busiest hubs are set to be temporarily closed in coming years to overhaul the park’s outdated water and wastewater systems.

Bowling scores: March 13, 2025

Scores from area leagues.

Idaho Fish and Game investigating two swans and three deer illegally killed in southeast Idaho

It is not known if the two cases are linked.

Kathleen Marie Gill, 84

After an extended illness, Kathie Gill passed away peacefully with family on Monday, March 10, at the age of 84.

Denise Brands, 60

Denise (Johnson) Brands was born to Wayne and Jayne Johnson at the Letterman Army Hospital in San Francisco on June 5th, 1964.

Downtown survey kickoff on Tuesday

Historic Context and Survey Report will be produced and a presentation will be made by the consultant to the Historic Preservation Commission in early 2026.

MY TURN: Vote yes for Lakeland levy

On behalf of the kids at Lakeland I write this to you. Because I am not 18, I asked my mom to post this for me. I hope you might take a few minutes to consider my thoughts in this letter to you.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Where would you find a leprechaun baseball team?

Montana researcher reflects on 30 years of wolves in Yellowstone

Snow crunched underfoot as Mark Hebblewhite scanned the ridgelines of Canada’s Banff National Park. It was 1995, and the young biologist, fresh out of undergrad, was trailing one of the park’s most elusive wildlife species – the gray wolf.

Legals for March, 13 2025

Idaho becomes the only state with firing squad as main execution method

Idaho will become the only state to fatally shoot death row inmates as its main execution method. Idaho Gov. Brad Little on Wednesday morning signed into law House Bill 37, which will make the firing squad the primary death penalty in Idaho.

Suspect identified, arrested in child enticement investigation

An arrest has been made following an investigation into a sex offense involving an older transient male and a young boy in Coeur d'Alene.

Man dies after falling from chairlift at Montana ski resort

A 37-year-old man died after falling from a chairlift that was having a mechanical problem at a Montana ski area, according to local authorities and a spokesperson for Red Lodge Mountain.

Idaho House rejects bids to apply to amend U.S. Constitution through convention of states

Supporters say the move is needed to rein in massive federal debt, critics say the method is uncontrollable

The House rejected the resolution on a 26-44 vote, and on a similar vote rejected a related proposal by Redman, House Concurrent Resolution 9, which would’ve outlined a process for the Idaho Legislature to select and remove Idaho’s delegates for a convention of the states.

Public comment for 2025-26 migratory game bird season proposals now open

Open house Thursday in Coeur d'Alene

The Fish and Game Commission will finalize the 2025-26 migratory game bird seasons during its April 15 conference call.

Kootenai Health, MultiCare plan Post Falls medical campus

The micro-hospital will include a 12-room emergency department staffed with physicians who are board-certified in emergency medicine, the release said.

CDAPD seeking public's help in locating missing woman

The Coeur d'Alene Police Department is seeking the public's help in locating an at-risk woman.

Prosecutors say Kohberger's defense will argue evidence was planted in Idaho student murders case

Many of the court documents detailing both sides' plans for expert witnesses have been sealed, so it's not currently possible to compare Thompson's characterization of the defense plans against the defense team's own court filings.

Hiker killed by falling rock inside railroad tunnel in Nez Perce County, officials say

A hiker died after a rock fell on her head inside a railroad tunnel in north central Idaho, officials told local news outlets.

Egg prices continue to hit records as Easter and Passover approach, but some relief may be coming

Egg prices again reached a record high in February, as the bird flu continues to run rampant and Easter and Passover approach.

NIC GOLF: Cardinals open spring schedule in Oregon

NIC competes in the Warrior Spring Classic March 24-25 at Lewiston Country Club.

All-league boys basketball

Top honorees from Inland Empire League, Central Idaho League and Scenic Idaho Conference announced.

Youth Sports March 12, 2025

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

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: A method to the Seahawk madness

Go ahead and feel optimistic. In just one week, the Seahawks have opened the door to becoming a better team.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Colton Tucker, Coeur d'Alene High School

Coeur d'Alene High School senior Colton Tucker is this week's Knudtsen Chevrolet Press Athlete of the Week.

College women: Gonzaga, Idaho, WSU all bumped off at conference tourneys

“Gonzaga is Gonzaga; we were in their palace, basically,” Oregon State coach Scott Rueck said. “They’ve set the bar for a long time, both men and women. So coming in here, we’re dealing with the people that dominate this place, because of that, we have to get over that confidence and aura that they bring in, and that swagger they bring into the gym. And our team came out unfazed, and ready to play.”

Idaho Fish and Game gathers strategic plan feedback

Crowding on public lands amid population growth and predator management were among the hottest topics discussed by outdoorsmen and Idaho Fish and Game officials Tuesday night.

Post Falls American Legion celebrates service, excellence at awards banquet

Post Falls American Legion celebrates service, excellence at awards banquet

It was a surprise to Stephen Godfrey — but not much of a surprise to those who know him — that he was named Post Falls American Legion Post 143's Legionnaire of the Year. "I'm kind of lost for words, which is unusual, because I wasn't expecting this at all," he said after the announcement was made Saturday night. "I do what I do freely, wasn't expecting any kind of accolades for doing it, but I appreciate it."

Planning and Zoning advances Coeur d'Alene's Coeur Terre development

Kootenai County Land Company was seeking the rezone of about 14 acres from R-17 to C-17 to accommodate a mix of commercial and residential uses within the northwestern portion of Coeur Terre; rezone .8 of an acre from R-3 to C-17L to reflect the relocation of the city well site; and rezone about half an acre from C-17L to R-3 to reflect that a well site is no longer planned at this location (test drilling was unsuccessful), instead allowing for single-family residential use.

Hayden Lake council hears opposition to Lakeview Drive proposal

Though not on the council’s agenda, several dozen residents attended Tuesday night’s city council meeting to voice their opposition to a proposal that would bring major changes to a portion of Lakeview Drive.

Post Falls firefighter looks back on 40-year career

Four decades ago, the fire department in Post Falls was located where City Hall’s parking lot is now, Dan Ryan recalled. Ryan, Kootenai County Fire and Rescue’s deputy chief of support services, is hanging up his firefighter turnouts for the final time March 31.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

What is the best month of the year to host a parade?

Do you need to worry about paying taxes on your inheritance in Idaho?

One of the most common questions I hear from clients in my estate planning practice is: "Will my heirs have to pay taxes on their inheritance?" It's a valid concern, as nobody wants their loved ones burdened with unexpected tax bills during an already difficult time. The good news for Idaho residents is that in most cases, inheritance taxes are much less of a concern than many people fear.

OPINION: Attorney General Labrador continues to endanger pregnant women

Most lawyers will take a hint from the courts when they are told a legal argument does not hold water. Idaho’s Attorney General Raul Labrador is a rare exception. Despite having been told by three different courts — Idaho’s Federal District Court, the U.S. Supreme Court and the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals — that his argument on Idaho’s total abortion ban is wrong-headed, he keeps making the same losing argument. Labrador contends that Idaho’s abortion law is Identical in effect to a federal law, the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), which requires most hospitals to give stabilizing care to pregnant women who come to the emergency room with life-threatening complications.

EDITORIAL: Minimize the growing pains

In every growing community, there comes a moment when difficult choices must be made for the greater good. Coeur d'Alene faces such a moment with the proposed redesign of the U.S. 95 and Interstate 90 interchange – a project that promises to ease congestion and improve safety, but not without disruption to established businesses.

Lester Keith Wigen, 88

Lester Keith Wigen was a wheat farmer on his parent’s farm in LaCrosse for 37 years. He passed away on March 3, 2025, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho where he has lived for the last 15 years.

Crews to begin work on SH-53 in Rathdrum next week

Crews from the Idaho Transportation Department are set to begin construction on State Highway 53 near the State Highway 41 intersection next week.

Armond Frasca III, 77

Armond C. Frasca III aka "Bud", 77, lived in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho for the last 30 years. Passed away February 28th, 2025, in the care of Hospice House. Born June 30, 1947, in Brooklyn, New York to Marie Van Jones and Armond C. Frasca II.

OPINION: Democrats are leading real town halls

Dissent and disagreement have existed in politics since the beginning of time. The push and pull of ideas makes us better. Much like a kite, the American experiment doesn’t fly without resistance.

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Gut health and allergies?

If you have any idea how your immune system works, you probably know that if yours is weak you could be more susceptible to infections. But did you know that your immune system can also be overactive and have a strong reaction to something that’s completely harmless? This happens when we have an allergic reaction.

MY TURN: Have you no decency?

Have you no integrity? Have you no humanity?

Helen 'Rudean' Neumann, 96

Helen Rudean Neumann, age 96, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2025, in Twin Falls, Idaho. Rudean was born March 18, 1928, on a farm in Thief River Falls, Minnesota to loving Norwegian parents, Andrew and Emma Jorde.

Idaho's immigration enforcement bill passes Senate

The Senate on Tuesday overwhelmingly passed a bill to involve local law enforcement in immigration enforcement. The action marks nearly the last hurdle before the bill heads to the governor’s desk.

Elected leaders walk to earn money for schools

Each participant selected a public school or district to receive funds. Since the program began in 2015, more than $350,000 has been awarded to Idaho schools on behalf of participating legislators. Steps for Schools motivates participants to be active for their own health as well as the school of their choice. The program has four primary goals:

Plant the green on St. Paddy's Day

Back in the day, my late mother, Alice Rankin, was a master gardener, teaching classes through the county extension office. Brad and Mary Corkill said several years ago my mother advised them to always plant peas on St. Patrick’s Day, even if you have to break through ice to do it.

FREE SPEECH, NOT FEAR: Why dissent strengthens Coeur d’Alene

Brent Regan’s warnings about unrest in Coeur d’Alene should be viewed in the context of his leadership in the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee (KCRCC), an organization that has gained notoriety for its aggressive political tactics. Under Regan’s leadership, the KCRCC has worked to consolidate power by endorsing extreme candidates, purging moderates, and even attempting to take over opposing political parties. His rhetoric, which paints any form of dissent as dangerous, is not about preserving community stability — it’s about maintaining control.

TAX CUTS: Ever-increasing federal deficit

What is it that makes America “great?” Is it bullying our neighbors? Is it threatening other nations while cozying up to authoritative regimes? Is it oppressing marginalized people within our borders? Is it enacting legislation that takes money from those who have the least and gives it to those who don’t need it? Is it denying those who are in need access to the help that we can provide for them, both within our nation and across the world? Are these the marks of a great nation? Or perhaps it is a smokescreen meant to divert our attention from what is being done to our government.

TOWN HALL: A democracy if we can save it

Last week, the Republican Central Committee sponsored a legislative town hall meeting. As our representatives do not come around often, it was welcome. It opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and then a prayer was offered.

FULCHER: Must stand up for retirees

Dear Editor, as a retiree, I worked my whole life and paid into Social Security and Medicare, expecting them to be there when I needed them.

SOCIAL SECURITY: Program is at extreme risk

Another day and another reckless act by the Trump regime. We know that his actions are more supportive of Putin than Americans, and we’re sick of it. We are just fed up. In the last few days DOGE has axed (fired) the technology unit that developed key public-facing IT services like Login.gov, where we can learn about our benefits, such as Social Security, Medicaid and Medicare. They have done this just in time to stifle people who may be trying to get information so that they can submit their taxes. This is a chilling development. Additionally, the acting leader of the Social Security Administration was asked to create plans for a 50% cut to the agency’s workforce which likely will target SSA Field offices, where seniors, people with disabilities, and survivors whose parents have died can sign up for benefits and get information.

Jack Dean Iverson, 85

Jack Iverson, 85, was born on September 13, 1939, in Clark, South Dakota. He passed peacefully on February 25, 2025

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Worried about brain fog, memory and concentration? We’re here to help

Brain fog, memory issues, and difficulty concentrating are common symptoms that can have various underlying causes. They can impact daily functioning and cause frustration. Understanding the potential reasons for declining cognitive function is important for addressing the issue effectively.

Terri A. Meyer, 77

Terri Meyer, cherished mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by the people she raised and loved so well.

Legals for March, 12 2025

Medicaid reform bill passes Idaho Senate, heads to governor's desk

The Idaho Senate at around 6 p.m. Tuesday suspended its own rules to be able to more quickly take up a major Medicaid reform bill.

Woman dies in crash near Sandpoint

The vehicle crossed over U.S. 95, left the roadway, and ultimately came to a stop in a nearby pond. The driver was wearing her seatbelt and succumbed to her injuries on scene. Alcohol is believed to be a factor in the crash.

Wall Street falls in a manic day after briefly dropping more than 10% below its record

The S&P 500 fell 0.8%, but only after careening between a modest gain and a tumble of 1.5%. The main measure of Wall Street's health finished 9.3% below its all-time high after flirting with the 10% threshold that professional investors call a “correction."

4 charged in death of 5-year-old boy 'incinerated' in hyperbaric chamber explosion

Thomas Cooper from Royal Oak, Michigan, was pronounced dead at the scene on Jan. 31 at the Oxford Center in Troy. His mother suffered burn wounds as she tried to save her boy.

Big Sky Conference men's quarterfinals — Vandals win first conference tourney game since 2017

“We learned our lesson from those first two games,” Idaho coach Alex Pribble said on the Vandals’ postgame radio show. “They pounded the ball inside on us relentlessly the first two games. It (the zone) really threw their rhythm off.”

Interruptions mark Coeur d'Alene meeting

Man in audience interjects comments as police chief gives presentation

When White finished and returned to his seat, the man walked over and began speaking to White, who invited him to continue the conversation outside, which they did.

Westlund announces candidacy in Post Falls mayor race

Post Falls City Councilor Randy Westlund has officially announced his candidacy for Mayor of Post Falls. Westlund stated in a press release announcing the decision as a way for him to advocate for responsible growth and "protect our local economy from the pressures of reckless overdevelopment.”

Young moose euthanized after taking up residence in Osburn

An unfortunate situation in Osburn last month resulted in the Idaho Department of Fish and Game dispatching a young moose who had taken up residency inside the town.

Local students explore agriculture at Idaho Exhibition of Ideas

Local students explore agriculture at Idaho Exhibition of Ideas

Area students participated Friday in the Idaho Exhibition of Ideas during the North Idaho Student Showcase at Twin Lakes Elementary School.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Which version will Seahawks get of new QB?

The big news in our neighborhood, obviously, concerns the Seahawks replacing quarterback Geno Smith (traded to Las Vegas) with free agent Sam Darnold. Forgive me a hint of cynicism here, but there’s no way that the Hawks and Darnold’s agents could have pieced together a multi-year contract in 48 hours. Start to finish. We’ll just have to live with the notion of “illegal tampering,” and cuddle with it.

Local physical therapist wins regional health care award

Mountain Valley of Cascadia’s Director of Rehabilitation Tara Lodi, was recently presented with the company’s 2025 Peak Performer Award at the Cascadia Summit in Huntington Beach, California.

Report: Idaho funding inadequate for special education, creating $82M funding gap

Levies often used to make up the difference

A new report has found that Idaho’s K-12 public funding doesn’t adequately support districts for their students with higher needs.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

How did the hamburger introduce his wife?

Scott TenEyck, 64

Scott Edward TenEyck, age 64, passed away peacefully in his home in Post Falls on February 25, 2025, following a series of serious health issues.

Chip Shots March 11, 2025

Scores, news, highlights from local golf courses, leagues, etc.

Idaho gas prices hold steady

Drivers are currently paying a penny and a half more than a week ago

Today’s average price for a gallon of regular in the Gem State is $3.18. While that’s a penny and half more than a week ago, it’s also a penny less than a month ago and nearly 11 cents less than a year ago. Idaho remains in 11th place for the most expensive fuel.

New Name: MØDE Stadium Stateline Speedway

MØDE Stadium Stateline Speedway will expand its offerings to include world-class events, leadership summits, and fan experiences that go beyond the track.

Silver Valley Sports: Storey of the Year

It was 10 days ago when Colton Storey capped off a stellar season by winning the 113-pound championship at the 3A State Wrestling Championships in Pocatello, but the sophomore sensation already has his eyes on repeating – or even three-peating over the coming years.

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and jail bookings for Shoshone County jail.

Legals for March, 11 2025

North Idaho legislator wants all employers to use E-Verify. What would that mean for Idaho?

‘It’s not black and white’: Idaho governor says about curbing unauthorized immigration, filling labor supply

St. Vincent de Paul staff raise $200 in change collection challenge

St. Vincent de Paul staff raise $200 in collection challenge

In the spirit of giving, staff members at St. Vincent de Paul came together for a friendly change collection challenge to support The Salvation Army Kroc Center’s Families Feeding Families food drive. Their collective efforts resulted in a generous $200 donation, helping provide food for regional food banks.

North Idaho College students' marketing package chosen to benefit special needs nonprofit

A nonprofit that provides health, hope and happiness for those with special needs through equine-assisted services is reaping the benefits of the creativity of North Idaho College graphic and web design students.

Strongest worldwide tropical systems

Last week, I wrote about the different names of major tropical systems that included hurricanes, cyclones and typhoons. Ironically, a major storm, Tropical Cyclone Alfred, made landfall on Australia’s East Coast on Saturday.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

Why couldn't the leprechaun pay his bar tab on St. Paddy's Day?

Couple sentenced in road rage shooting near Athol

A couple has been convicted for their involvement in a road rage shooting that took place on Valentine’s Day of last year.

Kootenai County commissioners may adopt precinct boundary changes

Kootenai County commissioners will consider adopting changes to several voting precinct boundaries next week.

STATE 6A BOYS CHAMPIONSHIP: Lake City caught in storm ... Top-seeded Owyhee goes on first-half run, rolls past Timberwolves for third title in four years

Lake City finished 21-5 after winning the consolation championship in 2024. Owyhee, which beat Lake City 76-56 in December, finished 23-4.

STATE 4A BOYS BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP: One last ride for Bonners ... Badgers win second straight state title in third straight trip to championship game

The Badgers finished by winning 41 of their last 42 dating back to Dec. 28, 2023.

STATE 2A BOYS THIRD-PLACE GAME: Lakeside struggles with Grace's size, falls in state 2A third-place game

Lakeside, which played only one senior, finished 16-7.

NJCAA WRESTLING TOURNAMENT: Cater, Silveria fight back for third as Cardinals finish eighth

“We wrestled tough the first day,” NIC assistant coach Cooper Thomas said. “Nationals is crazy anyway where you go from nine guys on the first day to three on the second. We’re happy with the guys that battled. We wanted them to wrestle with effort and attitude, and they did that today. Eighth isn't where our standards are, so we’ve got some work to do.”

North Idaho egg farmers scramble to meet demand

Jewel Lake Ranch in southern Bonner County has been selling fresh eggs to locals for some time and typically has enough left over to share with friends and neighbors.

Public hearing Tuesday on Coeur Terre requests

Amendment sought by developer worries some residents

A public hearing on the request is scheduled before the Planning and Zoning Commission at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Coeur d’Alene Public Library Community Room.

Growing boat traffic's impact on Spokane River to be studied

When it comes to traffic on the Spokane River, Susan Stiger of Bay Watchers has a question for Kootenai County officials: “Is there a way to responsibly and fairly put some guidelines in?”

Kootenai Vision Center moves to new home in Post Falls

Kootenai Vision Center has moved to its new home on Early Dawn Avenue, marking a new chapter for the long-standing family business.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: Windows, and the players who open and close them

IT’S ALL about windows – and we’re not talking about the computer operating system.

HUCKLEBERRIES: Wendy Carpenter: Committed cop

Wendy Carpenter smashed several glass ceilings in her 30 years with the Coeur d’Alene Police Department.

A mother and son aim to add more value for more locals

Frustrated by not knowing the “why” behind local businesses in town, Daniel Black and Susan Schuler—a mother-and-son duo—decided to do something about it by launching a startup together.

EDITORIAL: Government overreach turns to voting

In the name of "election integrity," the Idaho Legislature is considering House Bill 139, a measure that would drastically curtail access to absentee voting for thousands of Idahoans. Despite its well-intentioned packaging, this bill represents government overreach at its worst, creating needless bureaucracy, undermining personal responsibility, and betraying principles of limited government.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

What instrument does a showoff play on St. Patrick's Day?

DATA CENTERS: Take action now

A big Thank You to David Callahan for protecting our community.

TOWN HALL: Koch’s description is wrong

As an attendee at last Saturday’s town hall, I am compelled to share observations in rebuttal to Evan Koch’s description of the event.

TOWN HALL: Do we deserve any less respect?

As an attendee of the recent legislative forum at Coeur d’Alene High School, I can say without hesitation, there is no “mystery” about what happened there.

ROADWORK: Consider shifting whole freeway

How can IDOT consider the ‘issues’ of U.S. 95 in the future without knowing if the Huetter Bypass/Alternate to 95 North -South Route is constructed and in what configuration? Certainly the 95/I-90 intersection is not ideal but altering it so there is no direct access from 95 onto Appleway seems to reflect an incredibly harsh reality for the businesses along Appleway.

TRUMP: Handled Zelenskyy well

On Friday, in the Oval Office, the world had the opportunity to see a genuinely unscripted conflict between two world leaders. I am so very proud of President Trump for caring enough to deal fairly and speak truly to that cosseted darling of Europe, Volodymir Zelenskyy.

THE CHEAP SEATS with STEVE CAMERON: Thanks, Geno, but time for an upgrade at QB

The Seahawks unloading Geno Smith to Las Vegas for a middling draft choice was really the team’s only logical path. It’s pretty simple, really. We KNOW that the Seahawks are not going to be a championship contender with Geno at quarterback. He’s a decent QB, but nothing more than that.

Janice Joegensen Werst, 86

Janice Elayne Jorgensen Werst, age 86, died peacefully on December 17, 2024. Her memorial service is set for 11:00 am, March 15, 2025 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 501 East Wallace Avenue, Coeur d’Alene, ID.

Trying to navigate the probate process without an attorney? Be very careful

When a loved one passes away, grieving families often face the daunting task of navigating probate — the court controlled legal process of administering the deceased's estate. Many Idahoans consider handling probate themselves, especially when the estate appears straightforward and uncontested. While this DIY approach might seem cost-effective, it often creates unexpected complications and expenses. Here's why working with an experienced Idaho probate attorney remains advisable, even for seemingly simple estates.

TOWN HALL: An essential First Amendment forum

Brent Regan’s recent commentary paints a misleading picture of the chaos surrounding the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee (KCRCC). He describes the recent “town hall” as if it were overrun by gangsters but conveniently ignores that the event was advertised as a town hall — an essential First Amendment forum for citizens to engage with elected officials. Instead of acknowledging the broader noise from the crowd, he selectively blames one group of protesters, and specifically one woman.

OUR GEM: Understanding water quality monitoring on Lake Coeur d’Alene

Monitoring the health of Coeur d’Alene Lake is a collaborative effort involving multiple organizations, each contributing important pieces to the bigger picture of the lake’s condition. Four key groups — the United States Geologic Survey (USGS), the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (IDEQ), the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, and volunteers with the Bay Watchers program coordinated by the Idaho Water Resources Research Institute (IWRRI) all play important roles in collecting data that helps track changes in water quality over time

The importance of training and development

A flight instructor was doing practice maneuvers with a student when he said, "I think it's time we head back to the airport and land this plane. Are you ready?"

Community Thanks

See who's thankful!

Fish and Game wants plan input

The Panhandle Regional Office meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. March 11, 2885 W. Kathleen Ave., Coeur d'Alene.

Milestone Announcement

See who's celebrating!

James 'Jim' Burns, 90

James "Jim" Burns, 90 April 11, 1934 - Nov 28, 2024

Wilson Blake, 90

Wilson Blake, born on August 29th, 1934, in San Francisco, CA, was sent to his eternal home on December 21st, 2024.

Idaho GOP: Security was ‘clearly identified,’ ‘professional’ as woman was dragged from meeting

“Is this your deputy?” That was one of the many questions asked by an Idaho woman before she was forcibly grabbed, picked up, dragged and removed from a chaotic legislative town hall event in Coeur d’Alene on Feb. 22 by four unidentified men dressed in plain clothes.

Watch the moon turn red during a total lunar eclipse in March

During a partial lunar eclipse, Earth's shadow appears to take a bite of the moon. The full moon is covered during a total eclipse and blushes coppery red because of stray bits of sunlight filtering through Earth's atmosphere.

Storm dumps heavy snow on northern Arizona, gridlocking Interstate 40

The storm was the biggest of the winter season so far and followed a dry stretch that left Flagstaff and numerous other cities across the West well below normal for precipitation to date. They'll likely stay there despite the snow and rain.

How a canoe helped turn Hawaiian culture into a source of pride and even influenced Hollywood

To mark the anniversary, the Hokulea's early crew members gathered Saturday for ceremonial hula and kava drinking at the Oahu beach where the canoe launched on March 8, 1975, and where they began their first training sails.

12 people injured by 3 men shooting randomly at Toronto pub customers

A dozen people were injured in a shooting at an eastern Toronto pub in what police called a reckless act of violence by three men who entered the bar and fired randomly without warning.

House Republicans unveil bill to avoid shutdown and they're daring Democrats to oppose it

House Republicans unveiled a spending bill Saturday that would keep federal agencies funded through Sept. 30, pushing ahead with a go-it-alone strategy that seems certain to spark a major confrontation with Democrats over the contours of government spending.

STATE 6A BOYS SEMIFINALS: T-Wolves to play for title — Strawn shines early, Lake City holds off Boise late, will play Owyhee in championship game

Lake City (21-4) returns to the title game after winning the program’s first title in 2023 and winning the consolation title last year. The Timberwolves will face top-seeded and defending champion Owyhee (22-4), which beat fourth-seeded Timberline 50-42 in the other semifinal.

STATE 2A BOYS SEMIFINALS: Not their Knight ... Slow start stops Lakeside's run of two straight championship game appearances with loss to Kamiah

Lakeside (16-6), which had advanced to the championship game in each of the past two years, winning the 1A Division I (now 2A) title in 2023, will face seventh-seeded Grace (13-14) in the third-place game today at 11 a.m. PST at Vallivue.

STATE 1A BOYS BASKETBALL: Coeur du Christ bows out in two in debut

“I just told the guys, they won this game,” first-year Coeur du Christ coach Chris Kiefer said. “The coaching lost us this game. That’s what you get with a first-year coach. We had to critical, lack of awareness errors – not knowing how many team fouls they had at the end of the game. And we didn’t check to see who had four fouls. Ben (Connelly) had four, and thought he had three, so simple things like that. Those are unfortunate, but the team played super hard.”

NJCAA WRESTLING TOURNAMENT: Cardinals, with two semifinalists, sit seventh after first day

Sophomore Elijah Cater, who was sixth at 125 pounds last year, advanced to the semifinals to face Sefton Douglas of Western Wyoming today. Freshman Ray Griffin also advanced to the semifinals at 285 for NIC, and will face Dmarian Lopez of Western Wyoming for a bid in the national title match.

THE FRONT ROW with JASON ELLIOTT: Kind gestures, and getting better each game

“It was pretty cool to see,” Lakeside junior Tyson Charley said. “Our assistant coach Kenny (Louie-McGee), his wife is from Lapwai. So it was really cool that they did that for us.”

Details emerge in security company’s license revocation by city of Coeur d'Alene

Days after plainclothes security guards dragged a woman out of a legislative town hall, a letter from the city of Coeur d’Alene revoking the business license of LEAR Asset Management said the private security company posed “an immediate danger to the safety of the public.”

Sorensen community wraps arms around student with brain tumor

Sorensen community wraps arms around student with brain tumor

He wore a cool black jacket and a big grin. When the wind picked up, his mom covered his bright red hair with an even brighter red cap. Although it was a bit chilly on the playground Friday afternoon, Sorensen Magnet School of the Arts and Humanities fourth grader Benji Stribling was feeling the love as his entire school conducted a bake sale just for him. "It made my heart warm up," he said, his grin growing into a smile.

Kootenai, Shoshone housing prices continue to rise

Median price, sales, listings all up

According to the Coeur d'Alene Regional Realtors, the median single-family home price in Kootenai County was $549,620, a 10% increase over one year ago.

REGION 18 MEN'S BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT: NIC falls in semis to CSI in OT

"We had a two-point lead and gave up an and-one," NIC coach Corey Symons said. "Kind of a tough way to go."

Post Falls to improve section of Centennial Trail

City will add a cycle track

Post Falls officials voted to improve a section of the Centennial Trail between 2nd and 3rd Avenue at Ross Point this week. The project will cost about $22,000 from multimodal impact fees for the city to turn a single bicycle lane into a cycle track.

FAST FIVE Jackie Stallings: Courage and advocacy for the disability community

Meet Jackie Stallings, a vocational rehabilitation counselor at the Idaho Commission for the Blind, icbvi.idaho.gov.

STATE 4A BOYS BASKETBALL: Defending champ Bonners Ferry back in title game for third straight year

The Badgers (23-1) will face No. 2 Snake River (25-3) in the title game today at 2:50 p.m. PST at the Ford Idaho Center in Nampa.

The favorite child debate lives on

Rumor has it that my mom, the youngest of 10 raised in the Highwood Mountains in Montana, was the favored one of her parents. For sure, a relative told me, the most spoiled one. Got whatever she wanted. I’m sure she deserved it.

First Interstate Bank

To build or to buy? Construction and lot loans can ease the path to homeownership

First Interstate Bank To build or to buy? Construction and lot loans can ease the path to homeownership

Drought persists in North Idaho

North Idaho and the Wood and Lost basins are still experiencing drought conditions even after the wetter than normal February.

The Exhausted Dad: Enter the era of the dog

In one of the hastier decisions in recent years, my wife and I decided to add a new member to the family this past week.

Last words on ‘Anora’ and the Oscars

Conan crushed it. "Anora" won all the big awards. And the Oscar ceremony, like always, ran for approximately 12 and-a-half hours.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

What do you get when two leprechauns have a conversation?

Kenneth Meyer Thompson, 77

Ken Thompson, 77, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, was born on August 9, 1947, and passed away February 15, 2025, in Liberty Lake, Washington.

MY TURN: Medicaid, a stronger Idaho: Finding hope and common ground

Idaho just took a big step toward protecting Medicaid and strengthening healthcare with the advancement of House Bill 345. Policies and budgets matter, but what matters most are the people who rely on Medicaid every day. This bill protects access to care while ensuring Medicaid remains financially sound, accountable, and built to last. It keeps Medicaid off the chopping block, brings more voices to the table, and lays the foundation for a healthier Idaho.

PET TALK: Bulldogs: Beneath the wrinkles

Bulldogs, with their trademark wrinkled faces and charming personalities, are among the top 10 most beloved dog breeds in the United States, according to the American Kennel Club.

Coeur d’Alene man charged with kratom theft

Police arrested a local man who they suspect of stealing kratom from multiple businesses.

Coeur d'Alene High School announces fall 2024 honor roll

Coeur d'Alene High School has announced its fall 2024 honor roll.

William Dean Hutchinson, 82

William Dean Hutchinson, age 82, of Plummer, Idaho, passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 17th in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

Post Falls man gets prison for child sexual exploitation

A Post Falls man will spend up to a decade in prison for possessing child sexual abuse material that a judge described as “sick and depraved.”

ALL-BIG SKY BASKETBALL TEAMS:

Jack Payne of Idaho, formerly of Boise and Owyhee high schools, and a transfer from Colorado State, earned honorable mention. Idaho's Olivia Nelson was unanimously named Newcomer of the Year, and a first-team selection. Nelson ranked fifth in the league in scoring with 14.3 points per game. Nelson registered a pair of 30+ point games during the conference slate.

School and Senior Meals

School and Senior Meals: March 10-14

Elks mark 157 years

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks recently marked its 157th anniversary, celebrating its commitment to "unwavering dedication to charity, patriotism, and community service.

Legals for March, 8 2025

90,000 Palestinians attend the first Friday prayers of Ramadan in Jerusalem

For many Palestinians, Friday marked their first opportunity to enter Jerusalem since last Ramadan about a year ago, when Israel also let in worshippers under similar restrictions.

Mystery solved? A submerged car from the 1950s may belong to a missing Oregon family

The search for the Martin family was a national news story at the time and led some to speculate about the possibility of foul play, with a $1,000 reward offered for information. “Where do you search if you’ve already searched every place logic and fragmentary clues would suggest?” an Associated Press article wondered in 1959, months after the disappearance.

Gene Hackman died of heart disease, his wife died of hantavirus about 1 week prior, authorities say

Investigators found that the last known communication and activity from Arakawa was Feb. 11 when she visited a pharmacy, pet store and grocery before returning to their gated neighborhood that afternoon, Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza said Friday.

Texts, 911 call unsealed in Kohberger’s case reveal new details about Idaho homicides

Text messages from two surviving roommates in the University of Idaho student homicides and a transcript of the 911 call — both unsealed by the court Thursday afternoon — shed new insights into the morning when the four college students were stabbed to death in November 2022.

STATE 6A BOYS BASKETBALL: Posting a win ... Lake City gets it inside, powers past Thunder Ridge in state opener

“Anytime you start the game good, with a lot of positive vibes, it makes your job so much easier,” second-year Lake City coach James Anderson said. “We got our energy going, which put a lot of pressure on the other team, which grows on the other team in a situation like this. You go down big early on a court like this, you kind of hit the panic mode and it was really a big key for us. I’m glad we got out to a blazing start.”

STATE 2A BOYS BASKETBALL: Lakeside recalibrates — Knights shake off early struggles, run past Riverstone in state opener

Lakeside (16-5) will face top-seeded Kamiah (22-2), an 83-43 winner over Victory Charter, in tonight’s semifinal round. Kamiah beat Lakeside 66-55 in Kamiah on Dec. 7.

STATE 1A BOYS BASKETBALL: Bummer, but hard-fought debut ... First-year IHSAA program Coeur du Christ battles before falling short to top-seeded Dietrich

“I think the first four minutes was a rude awakening,” first-year Coeur du Christ coach Chris Kiefer said. “Dietrich is a good team and they’ve been playing a lot longer than we have. After that initial run, we started playing a lot better.”

Hayden may add police chief post

Could lead to city forming own department

The City Council is exploring the possibility of establishing a City Police Chief position that would act as a liaison between the city and the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Department.

Ramsey students explore vast array of questions, concepts at annual science fair

Ramsey students explore vast array of questions, concepts at annual science fair

Enlarged gummy bears, live baby chicks, elephant toothpaste, vinegar volcanoes, homemade X-ray machines, solutions for air pollution, how to manage bacteria in the cafeteria.

Deputies assist man in crisis on Memorial Bridge

Kootenai County sheriff’s deputies prevented a man from jumping from Veterans Memorial Centennial Bridge over the weekend, according to a news release issued Thursday by the sheriff’s office.

MOVING HISTORY FORWARD: Perry Christianson and further junior college expansion

The January installment of our NIJC story ended with Perry Christianson’s appointment as North Idaho College’s fourth president following the death of George Kildow in May of 1962.

Opening night: Wallace theater presents Nunsense

Nunsense opens tonight

The popular off-Broadway show is making its way to the stage in Wallace for the sixth time and stars Joy Persoon, Carol Roberts, Angela Curl, Naomi Medley, and Emily Hasz as the titular nuns, with theater veteran Paul Roberts in the director’s chair.

STATE 4A BOYS BASKETBALL: Defending champion Bonners Ferry rolls in opener

Bonners Ferry will host No. 5 Marsh Valley (14-11), which beat No. 4 Cole Valley Christian 58-52 on Thursday, in the semifinals tonight at 6 p.m. PST at Eagle High. The Badgers faced the Eagles in the semifinals last year and came away with a 64-57 victory.

Wallace to host public hearing for special event ordinance

A much-maligned piece of legislation is up for public comment once again, as the Wallace City Council will host a public hearing on its proposed Special Events Ordinance.

Idaho House approves Medicaid reform bill

The House on Thursday advanced a bill that would make major changes to the way that Idaho administers its Medicaid program.

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and jail bookings for Shoshone County jail.

High speed chase near Pinehurst ends in Coeur d'Alene

A Montana man driving a stolen vehicle led law enforcement on a multi-county high-speed chase earlier this week.

Follow My Lead Dance Studio celebrates opening of second location

Follow My Lead Dance Studio celebrates opening of second location

Follow My Lead Dance Studio is celebrating the grand opening of its second location, Follow My Lead Studio 2, with an Argentine tango weekend featuring professional dancers and instructors Cesar Davalose and Roxana Marinoff from Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Weekend TV/Radio highlights

Television, streaming and radio highlights for upcoming weekend.

Idaho governor signs $253 million tax cut bill

Gov. Brad Little on Thursday signed House Bill 40, which cuts corporate and individual income taxes, eliminates the capital gains tax on precious metal bullion, and expands tax exemptions on some military pension income.

OPINION: Lessons learned

Wisdom is the thing you get right after you need it.

DOGE: Farthest thing from efficient

Under the guise of “cutting the budget” and “increasing efficiency,” the current administration announced the mass termination of “probationary” employees this past holiday weekend across our National Parks and National Forests. Many may have figured “Oh well, they’re on probation," or “Probably not performing,” or “Awww, they’re new hires right out of college. They’ll get another job.”

REALITY GAP: Nobody seems concerned

“The line separating good and evil passes not through states, nor between classes, nor between political parties either — but right through every human heart.” — Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn

TOWN HALL: Act like real men

The video of the recent KCRCC town hall was absolutely appalling. Three men, who were not police officers, manhandling a woman simply for exercising her first amendment rights. All because someone at the town hall didn’t like what she had to say.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

I just received a text from an old girlfriend saying, "Was thinking of you when I bought some highly alcoholic green liquid."

Young Artist Concert set for March 22 at North Idaho College

Young Artist Concert set for March 22 at North Idaho College

The Coeur d'Alene Symphony Orchestra will present its Young Artist Concert at 7:30 p.m. March 22 in the Schuler Performing Arts Center on the North Idaho College campus.

MY TURN: Did you know

To reduce reading confusion, I will refer to the Cooperative Information Network (CIN) in this article as the "co-op."

NIR CONFERENCE: No one was threatened

On April 20, 2023, the North Idaho Republicans called a news conference in Coeur d’Alene to announce the establishment of their new organization. The group was formed in response to a growing frustration of area Republicans. Specifically, the group was formed to counter the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee (KCRCC) whom the North Idaho Republicans claimed had been hijacked by Libertarians, Constitutionalists, John Birchers, Redoubters and other extremists.

TOWN HALL: Deescalate how?

Regarding your editorial of Feb. 26 concerning Sheriff Norris’ removal of a protester at a recent KCRCC meeting. You first layout the steps sheriff’s department took in trying to get Ms. Borrenpohl to act responsibly/respectfully at the meeting. Warning her numerous times to stop speaking out of turn could result in her removal.

TOWN HALL: Law, order and respect are important

I want to offer a different opinion regarding the recent, now-viral, KCRCC meeting that was disrupted by a woman who is now the recipient of more than $200,000 from a GoFundMe account.

TOWN HALL: Every meeting will end up in chaos

In response to the outrage over someone interrupting a public meeting, being asked to stop, being asked to leave and then being removed, let’s take a look at the situation.

DOGE: Nothing efficient in their actions

Most Americans will now agree that the only nonessential federal “employees” are the president and his “lap-DOGE.”

TOWN HALL: Politics not allowed on school property

Couple things: 1) I thought the school district has a no political anything within 100 feet of school property policy.

ROVE: Put him back on the shelf

Karl Rove…never brilliant, a Bush loving political manipulator who dreamed of being the “architect of the Realignment of the Republican Party.” He has never gotten over the fact that the person who succeeded in realigning the party was Donald J. Trump. This was not supposed to happen. Rove has been wrong a LOT…from “Trump not being able to win the general election,” to “Trump has a high floor and a low ceiling…” (meaning he can win, but he can’t win “big”).

Rockfest 2025 coming March 15

Rock School Northwest and Crossroads Country Music Academy will present Rockfest 2025 with shows at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. March 15 at the Kroc Center, 1765 W. Golf Course Road, Coeur d'Alene.

Jimmie Allen Ruppert, 84

Jimmie passed away on Jan. 1, 2025, in Sun City West, Arizona. He was born June 16, 1940, in Buhl, Idaho, to Claude & Ruth Ruppert.

EDITORIAL: As food bank demand rises, more help is needed

The CAP food bank distributed more than 1.3 million pounds of food last year

Hayden Cinema movie times

Hayden Cinema movie times

Jimmy Lee Allen, 70

Jimmy Lee Allen, 70, of Kingston, Idaho, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2024 at his Kingston home surrounded by his loving family. Jimmy was born on February 10, 1954 in Kellogg, Idaho, a son of Jerry Allen and Ruth (Brien) Allen.

Calder Water and Sewer receives DEQ grant

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) awarded the Calder Water and Sewer District $25,000 to help evaluate deficiencies and determine necessary upgrades.

Legals for March, 7 2025

SpaceX's latest Starship test flight ends with another explosion

Starship reached nearly 90 miles in altitude before trouble struck and before four mock satellites could be deployed. It was not immediately clear where it came down, but images of flaming debris were captured from Florida, including near Cape Canaveral, and posted online.

Despite earlier concerns, governor signs largest income tax cut in Idaho history

Gov. Brad Little signed a $253 million tax cut into law Thursday, despite sharing his earlier concerns over the total amount of proposed losses in state revenue this year. It is the largest income tax cut in state history, according to a news release announcing the cut.

Idahoans are setting clocks ahead for daylight saving this weekend. Is it the last time?

This weekend, Idahoans will once again lose an hour overnight, setting their clocks forward in accordance with daylight saving time.

Missing dog safe after spending winter in woods north of Whitefish

rom the moment she got the call about Baldone, DaBolt knew the shelter would not be a long-term home for the big dog. She said the shelter served as a safe place until the Rescue was ready to collect him.

Most Greenlanders are Lutheran, 300 years after a missionary brought the faith to the remote island

Greenland is huge — about three times the size of Texas; most of it covered in ice. Still, its 17 parishes are located across many settlements in the icy land and people endure the frigid Arctic climate to fill up church pews on Sundays.

Trudeau expects a trade war between Canada and the US for the 'foreseeable future'

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Thursday he welcomed indications that the U.S. would delay substantial tariffs on Canadian products for a month, but said Canada’s plan to impose retaliatory tariffs would remain in place for now.

Idaho governments can’t require masks for infectious diseases, after governor signs bill

Idaho Gov. Brad Little signed into law a bill that bans government and school mask mandates to combat infectious diseases.

State high school basketball tournaments: Lakeside looks for third-straight title game appearance

“If we just play our game, we’ll win,” Charley said. “If you look at Kamiah, they’re losing games now. This tournament could be anyone’s at this point.”

North Idaho karate team wins at international tournament

Team Idaho Universal Kenpo Kung Fu Association (UKKA) — a combined Spirit Lake and Priest River karate team — won 12 first-place trophies, six second place trophies and five third-place trophies at the tournament. Team UKKA was the only team representing Idaho in the competition.

NJCAA WRESTLING TOURNAMENT: Rest does wonders for Cardinals hopes

The tournament begins Friday at 7 a.m. PST, with championship finals scheduled for Saturday at 4 p.m.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: Couple folks missing from state this week

“We play hard, and we play to win,” McLean said of his tenure. “What I’m most proud of, even more than the wins, you can never say we’ve never not followed the rules. We’ve always been above that.”

Bowling scores: March 6, 2025

Scores from area leagues.

I-90, U.S. 95 interchange design gets mixed reviews

I-90, U.S. 95 interchange design gets mixed reviews

Schramm was among a steady stream of visitors to the open house at the Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn to get public feedback on its top design for a Single-Point Urban Interchange at the congested area.

Longtime patron, actress, board president named artistic director of Lake City Playhouse

Longtime patron, actress, board president named artistic director of historical theater

All the world may be a stage, but to Brooke Wood, the Lake City Playhouse stage and the community that surrounds it is all the world. The longtime patron, actress and supporter of the little nonprofit theater on Garden Avenue recently stepped down as its board president. She is now Lake City Playhouse's artistic director, officially announced Feb. 24. In this role, Wood believes this to be true: "The best is yet to come."

'Women are totally capable'

Women at Work event highlights CTE programs at North Idaho College

Danette Hanson is one of only two women in a machining class of about 20 people at the Parker Technical Education Center. She hoped Wednesday’s Women at Work event, hosted by North Idaho College, would empower attendees to try classes and trainings in traditionally male-dominated fields.

No-till drill again available for rent

Spring is just around the corner. The Kootenai Shoshone Soil and Water Conservation District wants to remind landowners its no-till drill is again available to rent.

Post Falls woman is '100 and fabulous'

"100 and fabulous” read the text on Bea Degnan's sash. For her birthday bash, Degnan was surprised by family, friends and even an a cappella group to serenade her as she ushered in the milestone. For Degnan, however, she still feels the same age as when she married her husband, Bud Degnan, all those years ago.

REGION 18 MEN'S BASKETBALL: Cardinal men eye upsets in Utah

The tournament is available to stream at www.scenicwestsports.com.

MY TURN: Seven powerful words

My hat is off to David Stoltz, for his perfect Feb. 13 My Turn title. Succinctly, his seven words excite emotional response. Using “Our way of life,” suggests that every citizen adhere to one set of beliefs and establishes a “right side” to associate. Continuing with “is under attack,” a tireless victim mentality trope, he solidifies confirmation bias and promotes fear. His opinion, which is a right I value, is a textbook propaganda piece and should be called out for what it is.

Statewide trout stocking highlights for March

Approximately 60,000 catchable-sized rainbow trout will be stocked throughout the state this March.

Court ruling will remain after Forest Service drops appeal of lawsuit over road management

Under Amendment 19, grizzly bear populations grew and are now over 1,000 animals in the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem.

'Best Legs' contest on Saturday

The winner will receive a special, 'Certificate of Declaration' with honors as "Best Legs in a Kilt for 2025" and a gift certificate to All Things Irish.

Garden Club supports Fernan STEM Academy aquaponics with $500 grant

Garden Club supports Fernan STEM Academy aquaponics with $500 grant

Third graders Liam Lavine and Thomas Holom were anything but coy Tuesday as they explained how Fernan STEM Academy's aquaponics system works. It all begins with the fish, what they eat and the organic waste they generate.

Movers & Shakers

Three new directors at Coeur d'Alene Casino Resort Hotel are reinvigorating the casino and premier Inland Northwest entertainment brand since taking the helm of their respective departments in recent months.

Coeur d'Alene chamber sets career, business expo

The free, annual event put on by the Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber provides businesses with the opportunity to showcase their job openings, products, and services to the regional workforce and public, a press release said.

Descendant of George Washington to speak in Post Falls

Did you know that one of George Washington's descendants lives in Post Falls?

Hauser Lake Heron

A great blue heron feeds during the day and survey its surroundings in the evening on the north side of Hauser Lake on Monday.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

A few puns in honor of National Dentist Day, compliments of Dr. Justin Rader of Generations Dental:

Hydraulic fluid leak contained at Clearwater, Dworshak hatcheries

The fluid involved in the spill has been identified as Chevron Clarity Hydraulic Oil AW32l. The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for Chevron Clarity Hydraulic Oil AW32 states that skin contact is not expected to cause prolonged or significant irritation, but fishers should wash exposed skin with soap and water after potential contact.

Northwest Notes March 6, 2025

News about Zags, Cougs.

Legals for March, 6 2025

E Hele Mai i Kaua‘i: Escape the Idaho Winter and Embrace Aloha

Aloha mai kākou! If you’re staring out the window at the snow-covered streets of Coeur d’Alene, dreaming of warmth, palm trees, and ocean breezes, your soul is calling you to Kaua‘i.

Idaho could be only state with firing squad as main execution method, after Legislature passes bill

Only five states allow firing squads for executions. But the firing squad isn’t the primary death penalty method in any of those states.

Los Angeles County sues Southern California Edison, alleging utility's equipment sparked wildfire

Edison was reviewing the lawsuit and “will address it through the appropriate legal process,” utility spokesperson Kathleen Dunleavy said Wednesday.

Avalanche buries at least 3 skiers near Anchorage, Alaska officials say

Guides from the heli-skiing company attempted to locate the trapped skiers using avalanche beacons and identified a probable area where they were buried, at a depth of 40 feet (12 meters) to 100 feet (30 meters), McDaniel said.

Trump administration moves to drop Idaho emergency abortion case with national implications

The Trump administration on Wednesday moved to drop an emergency abortion case in Idaho in one of its first moves on the issue since President Donald Trump began his second term.

‘Murder,’ ‘psychopath’: Kohberger defense wants to limit phrases, evidence in Idaho trial

A trove of documents released Tuesday reveals requests from prosecutors and the defense for the upcoming trial of Bryan Kohberger, who is accused in the stabbing deaths of four University of Idaho students in November 2022.

STATE 6A BOYS BASKETBALL: Their time now ... Lake City, behind seniors Miller, Strawn, has eyes on another deep run

“We’ve got to give it all we’ve got,” Lake City senior guard Cason Miller said. “Us seniors, we’ve got three more games of high school ball and we’re going to give it all we’ve got. We’ve got to lock in and prepare for what we need to prepare for.”

All-league girls basketball

Top players in 4A Intermountain League and 3A Central Idaho League announced.

Youth Sports March 5, 2025

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

Signing photos March 5, 2025

Local athletes committing to play at the next level.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Matthew Hamilton, Post Falls High School

Post Falls High sophomore wrestler Matthew Hamilton is this week's Knudtsen Chevrolet Press Athlete of the Week.

Coeur d'Alene City Council greenlights $16.4M bond election for fire department

$16.4 million bond to fund fire department needs will go to voters May 20

Fire apparatus fleet and equipment is pegged at $10.1 million, while facility upgrades and remodels are pegged at $6.3 million.

Otter in action

Otter in action

Post Falls weighs changes to annual parade

Speaking at the City Council meeting Tuesday, Kerri Thoreson recalled past Post Falls parade processions where the route would be mapped out on a napkin.

Hayden Lake residents propose one-way traffic for portion of Lakeview Drive

Traffic concerns are nothing new along Lakeview Drive. Residents have long voiced concerns over speeders and a higher volume of traffic traveling along the community’s main thoroughfare, city councilmember David Weinstein said.

ITD open house to night at Cd'A Inn

The current design proposes several improvements, including a new single-point urban interchange, widening US-95, and grade separating US-95 and Appleway, among others.

Northwest Notes March 5, 2025

Spokane Chiefs captain Berkly Catton has been named WHL Player of the Month for February, the Western Hockey League announced Tuesday.

ALL-WEST COAST CONFERENCE BASKETBALL TEAMS: Hickman, Ike, Nembhard, Fortier, Ejim, Turner among Zags honored

Top players in men's and women's West Coast Conference announced.

Idaho Senate passed $253M worth of income tax cuts

The Idaho Senate has passed an estimated $253 million income tax cut, that also includes tax exemptions for some military pensions and an elimination of the capital gains tax on precious metal bullion.

Latest Medicaid bill advances to Idaho House floor

A bill to make big changes to the way Idaho administers Medicaid advanced to the Idaho House floor Tuesday morning.

James 'Jim' B. Hoss, 84

James “Jim” Hoss passed away on September 21, 2024. He was born on April 24, 1940, in Antioch, California to James H. and Dora (Carson) Hoss and grew up in Hope, Idaho.

MY TURN: KCRCC Town Hall melee

Mere minutes ago, I left the KCRCC sponsored legislative town hall meeting (Saturday, Feb. 22). My departure was abrupt and abbreviated by an unwillingness to be associated with the melee ensuing about half way through the presentations of the attending legislators. Roughly four and a half Idaho legislators were able to verbalize the bills they were working on and their concerning interests with only a few outbursts from the people attending. Tony Wisniewski was able to get about half way through his presentation describing his concern with the prevention of crossbreeding animal and human genes and the prevention of abortion before a female member of the audience erupted in anger. The interruption devolved into an ejection attempt that ultimately resulted in the woman being dragged out on her back, zip tied and missing a shoe.

Everyone, myself included, needs to take a breath

Garrison Keillor: “March is the month God created to show people who don’t drink what a hangover is like.”

OPINION: We the People need to exert our power over our elected officials

The preamble of the U.S. Constitution starts with these powerful words: “We the People of the United States.” Those words mean that all power arises from the people. Article I, section 2 of the Idaho Constitution says that all political power is inherent in the people. When our elected representatives in either the state or federal government fail to heed the voice of the people, they deserve to be replaced by those who will.

EDITORIAL: Fresh challenges for revitalized Silver Lake Mall

The Knolls took on what seemed a long shot: Get people to put down their laptop, get off of the couch and spend money at the mall. They wanted to bring back the entertainment experience to brick-and-mortar retail.”

Susan Kay Brinkman, 77

Susan Kay Brinkman, 77, of Hayden, Idaho, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on February 24, 2025, at Deaconess Hospital. Susan was born on January 31, 1947, in Bonners Ferry, Idaho.

Local professionals sought for March 25 Career Exploration Fair

The Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and Coeur d’Alene School District are seeking local professionals to participate in a Career Exploration Fair from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 25.

ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Losing focus? Here’s how to fix it!

Over the past decade, there has been a notable increase in issues related to memory and focus, affecting both children and adults. This is concerning. There has been an increase in ADHD diagnoses, lack of focus, shorter attention spans, and an increase in mood disorders which can have a negative impact on memory and concentration. Several factors contribute to this trend, most of which are controllable.

SURPRISE GIFT: I’ll never forget the kindness

I recently was hospitalized with COVID over my 82nd birthday.

I-95: What happened to the plan to reroute it?

Looks like we are looking at another Band-Aid fix for our North-South highway. Now they want to spend 10 to 20 million to fix one intersection and you know it will end up costing twice that much.

CITYLINK: Should have service to Spokane

“CITYLINK” Coeur d’Alene needs a bus route to Spokane. Many people live and work in both states. This also would save on the amount of traffic and pollution.

TOWN HALL: Stranger Danger!

We recently read of the goings-on at the recent KCRCC town hall (yes, we’re still keeping tabs), and when we read that Ms. Borrenpohl may have bitten her assaulter, we thought “good for her.” We taught our daughters if ever attacked by a stranger to kick, claw, bite, squirm and scream. Just because your Sheriff “sicced” his goons on her, it does not make them any less a stranger, particularly when they refused to answer her repeated requests to show badges and to identify themselves while also asking the Sheriff to identify her assaulters. Quite frankly, if a bite is all they received, they got off easy. Our daughters would have delivered decisive kicks to the “junk.”

CULTURE WARS: A distraction

There’s been a lot of talk about making America great again. What could we do that would make America “great?” Is it bullying our neighbors? Is it threatening other nations while cozying up to authoritative regimes? Is it oppressing marginalized people within our borders? Is it enacting legislation that takes money from those who have the least and gives it to those who don’t need it? Is it denying those who are in need access to the help that we can provide for them, both within our nation and across the world? Are these the marks of a great nation? It does not seem so. I seem to remember a phrase, “…whatever you did for the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.”

Why writing on your original estate planning documents is a bad idea

Estate planning documents are the foundation of your legacy and financial security. As an Idaho estate planning attorney, I've seen well-intentioned changes to original documents lead to serious legal complications. Here's why you should never write on your original wills, trusts, or powers of attorney.

DISSENT: The foundation of progress

At the town hall on Saturday, Feb. 22, the KCRCC’s bully-in-chief Ed Bejarana, said the quiet part out loud: “Your voice is meaningless.” That sentiment has become the foundation of the KCRCC’s echo chamber, where dissent is not only unwelcome — it is silenced by unidentified thugs in black shirts.

WWAMI: Change would be roadblock to education

The Sunday Op-Ed in The Press is the basis for this letter.

TOWN HALL: Lots of money raised

Well, Dr. Borrenpohl certainly made out well financially after her traumatic incident. Over $134,000 in donations for her “legal fund.”

LEGISLATURE: Plenty of bills to be aware of

Bills, bills, and more bills. If you weren’t aware, the Idaho Legislature has been in session for seven weeks. There have been almost 500 bills introduced so far, and there’ll be many more to come. Before I woke up, politics was just something out there. Busy working and raising my children, I just went on with my life before and after an election, not noticing much change. Hello, Biden administration! Time to pay attention.

TOWN HALL: CDA Council supports investigation

Mayor Woody McEvers and the Coeur d’Alene City Council are united in our support of equal protection under the law for every citizen. We set a clear expectation that the laws of the state of Idaho and the U.S Constitution will be followed in any interactions with our citizens.

Spring Dash benefits ALICE population

Race set for April 26

The registration fees will go to help the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population in the community,

OPINION: Should we be protesting?

Following last week’s Republican Town Hall debacle, many Democrats are clamoring to speak out against the violent injustice that was visited on Dr. Teresa Borrenpohl.

Ryta Lucy Fofanoff, 84

Ryta Lucy Fofanoff, 84, of Hayden, Idaho, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2025 at Schneidmiller Hospice House in Hayden with family by her side.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

What is the best way to cook an alligator?

Leelo Steele, 95

Leelo Steele of Coeur d'Alene left this earth on March 24, 2025.

Legals for March, 5 2025

Trump takes credit for 'swift and unrelenting' action in speech to Congress

Trump, who has billionaire adviser Elon Musk orchestrating his efforts to slash the size and scope of the federal government, said he is working to “reclaim democracy from this unaccountable bureaucracy" and threatened federal workers anew with firings if they resist his agenda.

State high school boys basketball tournament capsules

Previews of all 48 teams competing in this week's tournaments.

Judge tells attorneys to stop being so secretive in Bryan Kohberger's quadruple murder case

Hippler’s directive came as a flurry of new motions were filed ahead of the August trial, including a sealed defense motion to take the death penalty off the table that cited autism spectrum disorder.

Guns found in Sandpoint High School student's vehicle

The officers and school administrators questioned the student in possession of the guns and determined that there was no malicious intent or threat to students or staff. The weapons were confiscated and turned over to Sandpoint Police Department.

Trump administration is set to drop lawsuit pushing Idaho to allow emergency abortions, filing shows

A Justice Department attorney outlined plans to dismiss the lawsuit in communications with the state’s largest hospital, St. Luke’s Health System said in court documents filed Tuesday.

Zelenskyy calls Oval Office spat with Trump 'regrettable,' says he's ready to work for Ukraine peace

“Ukraine and America deserve a respectful dialogue and a clear position from one another. Especially when it comes to protecting lives during a full-scale war,” he added, saying that military aid had been cut once before in January for a brief period.

More endangered Mexican gray wolves are roaming the southwestern US, annual survey shows

The smallest subspecies of gray wolf in North America, Mexican wolves were listed as endangered in 1976, and a binational captive breeding program was started to guard against extinction. The reintroduction program has been the source of many legal battles over the years — with environmentalists seeking to get more captive wolves released into the wild and ranchers fighting to protect their way of life.

Trump's trade war draws swift retaliation as Mexico, Canada and China impose tariffs on the US

President Donald Trump launched a trade war Tuesday against America’s three biggest trading partners, drawing immediate retaliation from Mexico, Canada and China and sending financial markets into a tailspin as the U.S. faced the threat of rekindled inflation and paralyzing uncertainty for business.

One arrested following crash at U.S. 95 and Hayden Avenue

One person has been booked for aggravated reckless driving after traveling in an excess of 100 miles per hour on southbound US 95 Monday.

NASA's two stuck astronauts are finally closing in on their return to Earth after 9 months in space

NASA’s two stuck astronauts are just a few weeks away from finally returning to Earth after nine months in space.

Woman dragged from town hall hires attorney

A woman who was dragged from a legislative town hall at Coeur d’Alene High School by plainclothes security guards as hired legal representation.

Post Falls ambassadors fear proposed change threatens parade

Post Falls ambassadors fear proposed change threatens parade

The Post Falls Community Ambassadors have raised objections to a new ordinance being discussed by city officials concerning the Post Fall parade during the City Council meeting Tuesday, March 4.

Shoshone County's first fentanyl trafficking offender sentenced

Two individuals were sentenced on Monday in connection with Shoshone County’s first fentanyl trafficking case since Idaho passed new legislation concerning the dangerous opioid.

Cataldo man gets 40-year sentence after 8th DUI

Gayton refused to complete field sobriety evaluations and to provide a breath sample, according to the release. After obtaining a search warrant, the trooper collected a sample of Gayton’s blood revealing a blood alcohol concentration of 0.210 — more than twice the legal limit of 0.08.

Plummer man sentenced for sexual abuse of child

Carl Jay Williams, 33, will be eligible for parole after one year, said District Judge Barry McHugh.

Shoshone County amends budget to track jail spending

The Shoshone County Commissioners amended their budget last week to accurately track spending by the Shoshone County Sheriff's Office.

Silver Valley Sports Recap: Feb. 24 - March 2

Wildcat wrestling finishes third at state; Kellogg, Wallace, and Mullan boys' hoops end seasons in district tournaments.

Shoshone County jail bookings

Arrests and bookings for Shoshone County jail.

Jay Faraca, 67

Jay Anthony Faraca, 67, of Newman Lake, Washington, passed away on February 19, 2025 in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. He was born on February 26, 1957, in Kellogg, Idaho; the son of Ray and Mary Rae Faraca and the eldest of their six sons.

ISP needs a few good troopers

The selection process includes a written examination, physical fitness test, oral interview, thorough background investigation, and medical and psychological evaluations.

Idahoans paying less for gas

Today, Idaho ranks 11th in the country for the most expensive fuel, where it has been the past few weeks. The most expensive state average is in California at $4.79 per gallon, and the cheapest state average is Mississippi at $2.66 per gallon.

Coeur d'Alene Tribe lands $937K grant

Projects will be conducted in Washington, Oregon, Alaska, British Columbia, and Idaho, with the majority led by Native American and First Nations partners.

Magdalene Cysewski, 93

An angel was born to this world on March 5, 1931. She was named Magdalene Bernadine by her loving, kindly parents, Frank F. and Agnes(Karsky) Sadowsky.

THE DIRT: Property disclosures

How do you know if a property is safe from environmental hazards when you purchase it?

Legals for March, 4 2025

Storms, possible twisters to threaten the South just as New Orleans celebrates Mardi Gras

New Orleans moved up its two biggest Mardi Gras Day parades and cut down their routes to try to avoid the potentially destructive weather. Police are also expected to keep the hundreds of participants and dozens of floats moving quickly so they finish before winds are expected to pick up, according to New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick.

House narrowly passes bill to ban SNAP coverage for candy, soda

Bill is part of the national ‘Make America Healthy Again’ movement promoted by U.S. health Secretary Kennedy, says Idaho Rep. Jordan Redman

Idaho Gov. Little’s office received more than 32,000 requests to veto House Bill 93

About 86% of those who called the governor’s office opposed the bill, which allows state funds to support private education

Trump says 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian imports will start Tuesday, with 'no room' for delay

Trump has said the tariffs are to force the two U.S. neighbors to step up their fight against fentanyl trafficking and stop illegal immigration. But Trump has also indicated that he wants to even the trade imbalance with both countries as well and push more factories to relocate in the United States.

How springing forward to daylight saving time could affect your health — and how to prepare

There are ways to ease the adjustment, including getting more sunshine to help reset your circadian rhythm for healthful sleep.

Oscar winners — and losers — laugh, drink and dance together at after-parties

Oscars host Conan O'Brien stood next to a couch nearby and thanked a parade of people who came up to give him rave reviews. One fan said he loved a bit he'd done mocking Amazon and its CEO, Jeff Bezos.

Ukraine's Zelenskyy says end of war with Russia is 'very, very far away'

Zelenskyy publicly was upbeat despite the recent heated Oval Office blow up with Trump and Vice President JD Vance during which they accused him of being “disrespectful” and said he should show more gratitude for America's help. The turn of events is unwelcome for Ukraine, whose understrength army is having a hard time keep bigger Russian forces at bay.

Emergency water shutdown for some residents announced in Post Falls

As of 9:53 a.m. Monday, city officials in the water division announced an emergency shutdown for residents along the northern part Mullan Avenue, between Idaho Street and Syringa Street.

Monday TV/Radio highlights

Television, radio and streaming highlights for Monday, March 3.

Post Falls UI student plowing through code

Kevin Wing cultivates innovation with agricultural robots

These days, Wing, a nontraditional student from Post Falls who earned a GED more than 20 years ago and who is a member of U of I’s robotics team on the Coeur d’Alene campus — located at North Idaho College — is helping to build robots and artificial intelligence data systems. Wing is also looking forward to earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science in Spring 2025.

Shoshone sheriff seeks Border Patrol grant

Captain Seth Green with the Shoshone County Sheriff’s Department met with the Shoshone County Commissioners earlier this month, where they approved his request to pursue a grant from the United States Border Patrol (USBP).

Best night sky events for March 2025

The First Quarter Moon marks the halfway point between the New Moon and the Full Moon. It appears as a half-illuminated disk with the right half visible from the Northern Hemisphere and the left half visible from the Southern Hemisphere and is visible in the afternoon and evening sky.

Hurricanes, typhoons and cyclones

Overall, February was a chilly and snowy month across the Inland Northwest. At Cliff’s station in Coeur d’Alene, the average high for the month was 36 degrees, with a low of 22 degrees. A total of 23.7 inches of snow was measured last month, which pushed the seasonal total to date of 32.1 inches. The normal amount of rainfall for the season is 69.7 inches.

Rathdrum's Palaniuk claims sixth Bassmaster Elite win

“It’s so crazy how things happen for a reason,” Palaniuk said of a slow day that tested his resolve. “This morning, me and (seventh-place Greg DiPalma) were fishing next to one another and I watched him lose several big ones. I hate that and I love it, at the same time.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

The other night, I superglued my thumb and forefinger together ...

WCC BASKETBALL TOURNAMENTS: Gonzaga men, women jump in next Monday in semifinals

The first three rounds of the men’s tournament and the first five rounds of the women’s tournament will be broadcast on ESPN+. ESPN2 and ESPN will televise the quarterfinals and semifinals of the men’s tournament and the championship games of both the men’s and women’s tournaments.

State high school boys basketball tournaments

Sites and schedules for this week's state high school boys basketball tournaments.

STATE HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING CHAMPIONSHIPS: Post Falls back on top ... Trojans win first state title since 2020, sixth since 2015

Post Falls scored a state record 338.5 points in winning the 2018 title. The Trojans won three straight from 2018-20. It was Post Falls' sixth state title, all since 2015.

PREP BOYS BASKETBALL: Post Falls, St. Maries fall in state play-ins ... Coeur du Christ qualifies for state in first season as full member of IHSAA

Coeur du Christ (14-8) is a projected eighth seed in the tournament, which begins on Thursday at Caldwell High. Final tournament seedings and matchups will be announced today.

NIC ROUNDUP: Cardinal men fall to top-ranked Snow

The men's Region 18 basketball championship is this Friday and Saturday in Ephraim, Utah.

Rathdrum's Palaniuk builds huge lead at Bassmaster Elite event

“What an unreal week it’s been,” said Palaniuk, the former Lakeland High and North Idaho College wrestler. “The very first Elite Series event I won (Bull Shoals Lake, 2012), they were dropping the water. It had dropped 7 feet in like two weeks, and I caught them on a deep crankbait. “The water has been dropping here for almost seven weeks and I’m catching a lot of them on a crankbait. The irony in that is incredible.”

North Idaho Hall of Fame to induct Winger, Templeman, Buchanan, Rasmussen, Iupati

The five will be inducted during the Idaho Athletic Hall of Fame Banquet, which is set for Saturday, April 12, at The Coeur d’Alene Resort.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: Mitchell plays big; time for Vandals to do so as well

After a few lean years, there is renewed interest in Idaho men’s basketball. Part of it stems from the energy from second-year coach Alex Pribble, but much of comes from the infusion of Idaho talent – including Mitchell, Jack Payne from Owyhee, and Julius Mims from NIC.

Women to share wisdom Friday at Lake City Playhouse

Women to share wisdom Friday at Lake City Playhouse

Dancer. Writer. Motivational speaker. County commissioner. Activist. Daughter. Sister. Mom. Grandma. Wife. Human.

Post Falls community comes together to laud leaders

Calling the list of 38 community members and groups nominated an “overwhelming” offering of Post Falls excellence, Chamber President and CEO Christina Petit welcomed everyone Wednesday to the Community Recognition Reception. The height of the festivities at the Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn were accompanied by the much anticipated announcement of the Citizen of the Year Award, which went to Rick Rasmussen.

Sierra now open in Coeur d'Alene

Sierra, a multichannel off-price retailer that specializes in active and outdoor gear, opened Saturday in the former Bed, Bath, and Beyond storefront.

Vanhoff's Garden Center under new ownership

Brian Spraker sees Vanhoff’s Garden Center as a very successful business, in more ways than one. Now that he’s the owner, he intends to keep it that way.

HUCKLEBERRIES: Happy Birthday, Coeur d'Alene Press!

An important day in Coeur d’Alene Press history passed quietly in late February.

Listen to and develop people

The boards of two fiercely competitive companies decided to organize a rowing match to challenge each other's organizational and sporting abilities. The first company was strongly "Theory X" — ruthless, autocratic, zero staff empowerment, etc. The second company was more "Theory Y" — a culture of developing people, devolved responsibility and decision-making.

Estate planning for parents of minor children: Important considerations

When you become a parent, estate planning takes on new significance. As an Idaho estate planning attorney, I've seen how proper planning provides peace of mind for parents of minor children. Here are the key considerations every parent should address in their estate plan.

Jerry Scheller, 67

Jerry Henry Scheller of Otis Orchards, Washington, passed away suddenly on February 14, 2025, at the family property he cherished. Born on September 16, 1957, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

TOWN HALL: Many constituents felt unheard

I attended the KCRCC’s Town Hall on Saturday, Feb. 22, but was disappointed that the event was anything but that. By definition, a town hall is a meeting during which attendees are allowed to voice their opinions and question officials, political candidates, and public figures. In contrast, Saturday’s gathering was a forum during which local legislators primarily shared their legislative agendas and priorities. Although attendees were invited to submit written questions to the legislators, the two-hour session only allowed time for a handful of questions at the end. This poorly led event left many constituents feeling unheard, dispirited and perhaps even frightened.

HB 93: Welfare for the affluent

I’m mad about Idaho’s big spending and giveaways! Most of us pay for highways, State police, and costs of government in Boise. But Idaho’s HB93, just passed by both houses, say some people won’t pay a nickel. If a man with an adjusted income of $150,000 takes a standard deduction and puts 2 kids in private school he pays nothing. Worse, if he decides to put more than 2 children in private schools, then the rest of us Idahoans will be putting thousands, maybe tens of thousands, more directly in his pocket. This welfare for the affluent forces the rest of us to pay dearly for the personal choices of a few.

EDITORIAL: New housing solutions vital for Idaho's growth

Idaho's economic engine has been powered by growth and migration for years, creating prosperity here in the Gem State. Yet as economist Sam Wolkenhauer recently warned, high housing costs and mortgage rates are now threatening to stall that engine.

CLN: Why talk down to constituents?

Hanley told his constituents at the library board meeting on Feb. 20 to “suck it up and deal with it” when they expressed concerns about what the board is doing.

TOWN HALL: No right to disrupt meeting

The young lady screaming and being disruptive at the KCRCC meeting on Saturday was removed because of her loud disrespectful speech.

Moratorium imposed as data centers look to Kootenai County

COEUR d’ALENE — Amid concerns about the resource usage and environmental impact of data centers, Kootenai County commissioners voted unanimously this week to impose an emergency moratorium on building permit approvals for such facilities.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

What do you call a magician who has lost his magic?

AI expert from Microsoft inspires North Idaho

Recently, Taylor Black, a leader inside of Microsoft and expert regarding AI and innovation, came to speak with the build_CDA community about how AI is changing everything including jobs, creativity, and our daily lives.

OPINION: My favorite legislative town halls

Though I am now retired, during my 8 years in the Idaho Senate serving the Coeur d’Alene area, I participated in close to 30 public Town Halls events. I loved meeting constituents, listening to their concerns and sharing the issues we were working on in the Senate.

Could a surge in immigration affect wages in Idaho? Here’s what the research says

Elected officials, from Vice President J.D. Vance to state Sen. Brian Lenney, R-Nampa, have said that immigration lowers wages for U.S. workers.

STATE WRESTLING TOURNAMENTS: 'Starting from scratch' .... Post Falls just 1.5 points behind four-time defending state champion Meridian heading into final day

The tournament concludes today, with championship finals scheduled for 3 p.m. PST.

NIC SOFTBALL: Cardinals swept by CSI in first SWAC twinbill since 2016

The teams meet again today in Twin Falls.

Rathdrum's Palaniuk takes lead in Bassmaster Elite event

“This is the most epic day I’ve ever had — pure insanity,” Palaniuk said. “I caught seven bass today.”

THE FRONT ROW with JASON ELLIOTT: The road will lead them back again

Sure, the same challenges will present themselves next year. Staying healthy, finding ways to win big games when it seems that the deck might be stacked against them.

Protest forms outside Kootenai County Sheriff's Office

After video recordings of Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris attempting to physically remove a woman from a legislative town hall for speaking out of turn went viral and made international headlines, some community members are calling for Norris to resign.

'A false spring' in Coeur d'Alene

Climatologist says March could go out like a lion

Harris said it hit 58 degrees on Thursday, just 2 degrees of the record for Feb. 28 set in 1941, and climbed to 57 on Friday, again just short of the record high of 60 degrees.

Silverwood's Tremors coaster to receive 'seismic upgrade'

A trackless roller coaster? Yes. For a time. Silverwood Theme Park announced Thursday the Tremors roller coaster will be receiving a "seismic upgrade."

Bill introduced could shift Idaho's Medicaid program

Idaho lawmakers are considering a new proposal that would dramatically impact the state Medicaid program.

How one packet of tomato seeds launched a gardening business

As a new gardening season begins, I want to share how my passion for gardening and helping other gardeners succeed evolved from a fun hobby into a thriving business.

Today's Ghastly Groaner

What do you call an angry carrot?

The Exhausted Dad: Years of potential lost to soap obsession

I need help. I must save my 13-year-old daughter from “Grey’s Anatomy.”

Shoo, fly! Keeping cattle comfortable and healthy

Flies might be seen as simply a pesky inconvenience, but for cattle, they’re much more of a concern.

School and Senior Meals

School and Senior Meals: March 3-7

Ruth Ann McDermid, 96

Ruth Ann McDermid age 96, passed away on January 24, 2025, in Post Falls, Idaho due to the progression of dementia. She was born on September 27, 1928, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho to Earl and Helen Campbell.

MY TURN: School days, golden rule days

“This country was built on American respect for education” Ronald Reagan. Thomas Jefferson warned that government “tyranny” would emerge unless “the people at large” were “educated at the common expense of all.” Yet more than half of Americans (51%) say our public education system is going in the wrong direction.

Boris opened the door to the world of chess

Spassky was nearly as brilliant. His was a household name among those who who grew up playing chess. It was a game that received scant attention in the U.S. until Fischer, a defiant, angry man who disappeared not long after his big win, put it in the spotlight. The 1993 movie about chess prodigy, “Searching for Bobby Fischer,” remains a favorite.

Oscar do-overs of the 2000s

The Academy Awards each year can only represent the industry preferences of that given year.

FAST FIVE United Way's Rachel Peterson: A servant's heart, an entrepreneur's spirit

Meet Rachel Peterson, who hails from Bremerton, Wash., where she was raised by Grandpa — and she got an early start as a volunteer.

Tickets on sale for BIG Raffle

Other prizes include a 2025 new vehicle ($32,000 value), a home furnishings gift card ($2,000 value), and a smoker/BBQ package ($1,500 value).

Legals for March, 1 2025