Here's why Idaho isn't fiscally paralyzed

Each year about this time I'm reminded once again how wise the framers of the Idaho Constitution were, and how lucky we are to live in a state where people understand the value of stability.

Our kids have what it takes

Say it with us: Darn kids.

Our Gem: There’s a moose on the loose in downtown Coeur d’Alene

You might be witnessing more moose than usual visiting our urbanized areas and partaking in our tasty ornamental plants and shrubs this winter.

MY TURN: Purple Heart Day

Aug. 7, has been designated by Congress as “Purple Heart Day.” The Purple Heart is the medal which is presented to members of America’s armed forces who have been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action in the defense of our country. As such, it is the tangible embodiment of the oath that each person who is serving or has served in our country’s armed forces takes when they join the military confirming their willingness to go in harm’s way and, if necessary, to lay down their lives to defend our country.

Otter's State of the State and Budget Address

Gov. Butch Otter is scheduled to give the following speech right now in Boise, launching this year's legislative session:

OPINION: SEN. MARY SOUZA — Behind the scenes on Idaho COVID orders

As the State Senator from District 4, which is basically Coeur d’Alene, I’ve been receiving many phone calls and emails from individuals and businesses upset with the COVID-19 shut downs. The other legislators from our area have as well and, believe me, we feel your frustration.

No crystal ball predictions here

Because of our profession, we Realtors are often asked "How's the market?" As a sign of the trying times we are in as a nation, the question has changed somewhat. Now, what people most often want to know is, "When will the market improve?"

Nutrition and your health

I have dedicated many of my weekly columns to nutrition. The reason I do this is because the largest segment of our health and fitness is based on what we eat. For those of us who understand this, we put a solid emphasis on eating right every day.

Our own predispositions

FAST FIVE James Casper helps people build their lives

Meet James Casper, who was born and raised in Idaho Falls. He and his wife moved

Don't buy into the failure story line

We have heard a lot at the Legislature this year about our schools being poor, our student outcomes being weak, and about little progress being made in education. Unfortunately, this storyline serves the purpose of those who advocate for the elimination or weakening of our public schools.

Veterans Day takes on special meaning at Idaho National Laboratory

On Oct. 1, 2015, I became director at Idaho National Laboratory. I’m grateful for so many things associated with this unique opportunity, including a heightened appreciation for this day and those we honor.

Shaping the future of business: Your support matters

As we move closer to June, our community is gearing up to launch another class of graduating seniors into the world.

COMMENTARY: The real facts on our school levy

I appreciate the editor’s note at the end of Brent Regan’s Aug. 26 commentary on our proposed School Safety and Deferred Maintenance levy. If you missed that postscript, it’s worth a read. It repeats an important fact that voters shouldn’t overlook before Tuesday’s election: The overall property tax rate for Coeur d’Alene Public Schools will be lower in the coming year, consistent with a trend we have seen over the past six years. The tax rate will be lower than last year regardless of the outcome of Tuesday’s vote.

Op-Ed: Here's why we vote

As Election Day 2021 approaches, I exhort every registered citizen to vote in our local elections. The levels of government with the most impact to our daily lives will have their leadership determined on Tuesday, Nov. 2.

LIBYA: Liberals can't complain

If our president had been white, and the ambassador and others killed in the attack on our embassy in Libya had been black, the liberals in our country would have been screaming “racism” when extra security was denied and no help was sent when these courageous, loyal Americans were under attack by terrorists!

PANDEMIC: The highest priorities

In this time of pandemic and distress in our country and throughout Idaho communities, I ask you NOT to waste our time and money by trying to implement and change our State Constitution and NOT begin proceedings against Gov. Little.

FLAG: Let her fly on June 14

There’s respect for Memorial Day, also the 4th of July. We remember the dearly departed veterans on Memorial Day and celebrate our independence on the 4th of July. In between the two holidays is Flag Day, celebrated every year on the 14th of June.

GIFT: Thanks for the meal

On Saturday, Sept. 23, we went to Martino’s Tuscan Grill for dinner to celebrate our 55th wedding anniversary.

WIND: Second strike hurts

I need a lot more than 250 words to tell my story.