OPINION: Convictions about principled presidential leadership

The conviction of a candidate for president of the United States for felony crimes is not a moment for celebration, but a time for reflection and recommitment to principles that define our democracy. We must carefully consider the character of those we elect, and advocate for leaders who prioritize public service above all else.

Northwest Notes: June 13, 2024

Kastens, a Coeur d'Alene High product, joins the Wildcat staff after having served most recently as an assistant football coach and the offensive line coach for William Jewell College in Liberty, Mo. where he spent the previous two seasons. He earned the title of Assistant Football Coach on February 20, 2022, after his first season with the Cardinals.

Judge could soon set trial date for man charged in killings of 4 University of Idaho students

So far, 2nd District Judge John Judge has not set a trial date, noting that the case is particularly complicated in part because prosecutors have said they will seek the death penalty if there is a conviction.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: Missing good people, both far and near

I WISH I had a Bill Walton story. Everyone else out there seems to have a heartwarming one. Most of the tributes that have poured in since his passing on May 27 at age 71 have focused on his kindness following his injury shortened basketball career.

Unanimous Supreme Court preserves access to widely used abortion medication

Justice Brett Kavanaugh, who was part of the majority to overturn Roe, wrote for the court on Thursday that “federal courts are the wrong forum for addressing the plaintiffs’ concerns about FDA’s actions."

Local violinist wins at international competition

Altenbach's 'Jester's Waltz' to be performed in Vienna

A celebrated violinist who serves as a faculty member at the Music Conservatory of Coeur d'Alene has even more reason to celebrate. Richard Altenbach, an A-list Hollywood recording musician, won second prize in the International Golden Key Piano Composition Competition for his composition, "The Jester’s Waltz." He will travel to Vienna in July to receive his diploma and winner’s medal and to hear his piece performed by Anna Leyerer, a renowned virtuoso concert pianist, at the World Composers’ Recital.

Taking it to the streets of Coeur d'Alene

Musicians volunteer to play this week for Second Harvest

Hitt was one of about 10 musicians who took up posts in downtown Coeur d’Alene for Second Harvest food bank.

President Joe Biden's son, Hunter Biden, is convicted of all 3 felonies in federal gun trial

Hunter Biden left the courthouse holding hands with the first lady and his wife. They did not speak to reporters, got into waiting SUVs and drove off.

Coeur d'Alene police chief: Could take years to recover from fire

Cause remains unknown of blaze that destroyed millions in police vehicle, gear, equipment

Police lost about 10 vehicles in the Sunday morning blaze, including an incident command trailer, a SWAT Bearcat unit, nearly 100 laptops, ebikes for downtown patrol and everything associated with its canine program.

THE FRONT ROW with JASON ELLIOTT: A chance to make another splash — Rising Coeur d'Alene High senior Rohlinger competes at Nike Nationals before taking missionary trip to Guatemala with mom

“It’s been a bit of a whirlwind,” Linda Rohlinger said. “Kyle worked so hard to get to a national stage. Then we’ll fly out for another experience that could be life altering. It’s just been fun to experience it all with him. It’s definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

'Beauty' leaves her mark

Bald eagle became an international ambassador with Birds of Prey Northwest

Veltkamp led a multi-specialty team that engineered a 3-D printed beak for Beauty, and she provided care for the eagle for nearly 20 years, as she couldn’t feed herself and was unable to survive any longer in the wild.

Princess of Wales says she's making ‘good progress’ in cancer treatment, will attend a public event

The announcement is a significant milestone, but does not mark a return to full-time public duties for Kate

Legals for June, 15 2024

Fast Five Kevin Croffoot: A father's heart of fire and faith

Meet Kevin Croffoot, a battalion chief with 32 years in the fire service, which began in the beginning with Hayden Fire and continued after consolidation becoming Northern Lakes Fire Protection District.

Favorite things about the Silver Valley: Elmer's Fountain

The Silver Valley is full of special places. Many of them are front and center in the community, but some of them are hidden in plain sight. One of the more unique spots is Elmer’s Fountain.

Milestone Announcements

See who's celebrating!

'Eagle' makes a splash at Silverwood

Grand opening of Emerald Forest thrills riders at Silverwood Theme Park

The $15 million project covering four acres included Salmon Run splash pad area that features several slides for kids.

Reported birth of rare white buffalo calf in Yellowstone park fulfills Lakota prophecy

Erin Braaten of Kalispell took several photos of the calf shortly after it was born on June 4 in the Lamar Valley in the northeastern corner of the park.

HUCKLEBERRIES: Ordinance for peace and quiet

“Ordinance” is a fancy word for a law imposed by cities and counties.

THE FRONT ROW with MARK NELKE: Another year of musical chairs — or musical football fields — as local high school football schedules come together

For North Idaho teams, putting together a high school football schedule in the first year of a two-year cycle is always difficult. “Yes, it was the most difficult in the 22 years I’ve been here,” Post Falls athletic director Craig Christensen said. “I thought those (previous years) were difficult, but they weren’t, compared to this.”