BILL BULEY

Coeur d'Alene resident powers through choppy waters to win women's division

Coeur d'Alene resident powers through choppy waters to win women's division

The Coeur d’Alene resident fought through rough, choppy waters fueled by winds strong enough to create whitecaps to finish first in the women’s division in a time of 34 minutes, 11 seconds. She said masters swimmers are prepared for any conditions, so she didn’t let the swells churning on Lake Coeur d’Alene bother her at the start along with about 70 others bobbing on the west side of Tubbs Hill. But it was tough as she tried to ride one swell only to have the next drag her back.

McEvers breaks tie vote on HREI lease

Nonprofit gets three-year deal despite not paying rent

Jeanette Laster, HREI director, said she was grateful to the city leadership that voted to allow the nonprofit to continue in its current space. “Under critical budget times, we should expect healthy discussions centered around matters that impact funding,” she wrote in an email to The Press. “There are always contingency plans. However, we have been a long -term, good-standing nonprofit with a strong impact record in the community.”

What I hate about North Idaho

You see, I live for summer. I was, am, and always will be a summers kind of guy. I wait anxiously through late fall, winter, and spring for my favorite season. It is then I take a deep breath, look around, and give thanks. It is what gives me hope during the seemingly endless 40-degree, soggy days of January and February. It is what drives me when I look out the window and am greeted with rain in March and April. It is what keeps me in North Idaho, because there is no better place to call home in the summer than North Idaho.

Fuel mitigation work wraps on Tubbs Hill

Fuel mitigation work wraps on Tubbs Hill

A goal is to remove fuels adjacent to abutting properties like McEuen Park and near high-use trails to create fire breaks.

'Her art is unmistakably hers'

Jaime Rome Crain opens gallery in downtown Coeur d'Alene

Jaimie Crain, born in Coeur d’Alene, earned her bachelor’s degree in fine art and graphic design from Whitworth University in 2022, receiving numerous awards along the way. She then began working full-time as a fine artist and for two years showed and sold work at galleries around the Pacific Northwest. After completing a six-month artist-in-residence program at The Hive with the Spokane Public Library, she decided it was time to follow her dream of opening her own gallery.

Learning to 'Fly'

Pam Pereira pens book sharing importance of loving self

Fly tells the tale of a fairy named “Magic” whose heart once so full of love suddenly feels empty and sad. She regains her joy after discovering she must love herself so she can then freely share it with those around her and her heart “will never be empty or sad.”

C'mon over to play 'Red Rover'

Now, in case you have no idea how to play Red Rover, it’s pretty simple. It was a game we played often as children, a staple of my childhood. You split up into two teams and line up facing each other from a distance of about 10 yards. Then, you decide who gets to go first. Once that is done, you’re ready.

Procession, celebration of life in Coeur d'Alene pay final tribute to John Morrison

Procession, celebration of life in Coeur d'Alene pay final tribute to John Morrison

A wave of silence washed over the crowds that lined Sherman Avenue Thursday morning as the procession in honor of CDA Fire battalion chief John Morrison made its way towards the Hagadone Event Center.

'We take care of each other'

Firefighters coming from around the nation for services for John Morrison, Frank Harwood

A celebration of life to honor Morrison, 52, of the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department, is scheduled today, while one is scheduled for Harwood, 42, of Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, is set for Friday. Both services will take place at the Hagadone Event Center. They are closed to the public.

Birds of Prey Northwest releases rehabbed bald eagle at Rockford Bay

Birds of Prey Northwest releases rehabbed bald eagle at Rockford Bay

ark Maret, conservation officer with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, arrived and tried to toss a blanket over it. The eagle, though, used its talons to toss it aside and fled downhill into ravine and creek. After a bit of a battle and with Warren’s assistance, Maret was able to corral it using sticks, towel and jacket. Staff from Shooters also helped.

No doubt, it's a drought

Lack of rain raising wildfire risk and could have other impacts

Since April 1, Idaho has experienced “exceptionally dry conditions with temperatures being severely warm.” “These warm dry conditions have dramatically changed the outlook on water supply conditions statewide,” Hoekema write in a report. “It seems all but certain that the drought in northern Idaho will continue for another year. Water shortages in eastern Idaho are becoming increasingly likely.”

Tribute to fallen firefighters puts special stamp on Coeur d'Alene's Fourth of July parade

Tribute to fallen firefighters puts special stamp on Fourth of July parade

The Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber’s “Home of the Brave” parade included nearly 100 entries, with floats, bands, cheerleaders, veterans, and a good number of dogs. But what started the parade is what led all to stand and applaud: Two riderless horses representing the lives of fallen firefighters John Morrison and Frank Garwood, who were shot and killed on an ambush target while responding to an intentionally set fire at Canfield Mountain on Sunday.

'He had our back'

Firefighters reflect on John Morrison

The 52-year-old Morrison was with the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department for 28 years. He was a big man, about 6 feet, 4 inches tall, who exuded a calm confidence that put those around him at ease in any situation they faced.

'He always hit the mark'

Frank Harwood remembered for leadership, service with KCFR

Holley said he knew early on whatever he did in his career, he “needed to do it how frank was doing it.” Many looked up to Harwood. “He always hit the mark,” Holley said.

Condition of hospitalized firefighter improves

Doctors performed a third successful surgery today. He suffered severe chest trauma and is now off a ventilator and talking.

Thousands line I-90 for procession of fallen firefighters from Spokane back home to Coeur d'Alene

Thousands line I-90 for procession of fallen firefighters from Spokane back home to Coeur d'Alene

Thousands of people, many waving flags, lined Interstate from Spokane to Coeur d’Alene as the bodies of Battalion Chiefs John Morrison and Frank Harwood were returned home to Coeur d’Alene. Overpasses were crowded. Some pulled over on the shoulder of the highway to watch the procession of emergency motorcycles, ambulances and fire trucks.

Firefighters shot while responding to call praised for courage, service

Firefighters shot while responding to call praised for courage, service

bMorrison, 52, and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Battalioin Chief Frank Harwood, 42, died while Coeur d’Alene firefighter/engineer Dave Tysal, 47, was wounded and remains at Kootenai Health in stable condition after undergoing two surgeries. All three were described as brave men who loved their jobs.

'When I saw two had fallen, I cried'

People hug, hold flags as they stand along U.S. 95 in support of frontline responders

People come out to support firefighters

Coeur d'Alene Tribe chairman: Education is key to creating a path toward success

Coeur d'Alene Tribe chairman: Education is key to creating a path toward success

Chief Allan went on to become the first member of his family to attend college when he went to Eastern Washington University, earning a degree in political science. Today, as chairman of The Coeur d’Alene Tribe, he emphasizes the importance of education. His was key to later successes. “My story has always been education. I really push educaiotn. Not only for ourselves, but for everybody. I bleieve education is that tool we can all use,” he said.

Ironman 70.3 CDA: 'Ooh, what a lucky man he was'

Just 24 hours earlier, it was filled with weary runners and energetic volunteers. Our yard was filled with family and friends, kids and grandkids, who came to root for us in the running segment of the race, which goes right by our home. As I recall, it was the best of days.

'Off-Monday Night Dinner' caters to smaller crowds

Adam Schluter opens CDA home yet another day for friends, strangers to gather

Schluter started “Off-Monday Night Dinner.” It falls on the Mondays between Monday Night Dinner. The idea is a smaller setting, with everyone sitting down for conversation and dinner at 6 at the same table in the backyard for 90 minutes and then enjoying a show as an engaged audience until about 9.

'Legacy of community involvement'

Area with bench, trees, plaque at McEuen Park will be dedicated to Paul Anderson

A city bench at McEuen Park, made out of a fallen maple tree at the park, is being dedicated to Anderson. “Paul’s Bench” will be flanked by a white pine tree and a dogwood tree, as well as some large rocks and shrubs. A pathway of pavers leads from the path to the bench. A plaque with a tribute to Anderson will be added later.

Homecoming for veterans in Coeur d'Alene

Melissa Hostetler working with VA medical foster program in Coeur d'Alene

VA medical foster homes are privately owned residents where the owner lives and provides continuous care and supervision to paying veterans, with assistance from relief caregivers. The owner/caregivers can help the veteran carry out daily activities, like getting dresses, transportation and coordinating medical or other appointments.

Veteran Stephen Durfee humbled by honor in Coeur d'Alene's Fourth of July parade

Veteran Stephen Durfee humbled by honor in Coeur d'Alene's Fourth of July parade

The American Heroes Parade is a cherished local tradition that celebrates the freedom we enjoy and the heroes who protect it. Join us in downtown Coeur d’Alene to salute Stephen Durfee and all the brave men and women who serve our nation with honor.

Weather could create challenging conditions for Ironman

More than 100 locals in race

Winds are projected to be fairly mild in the morning, about 2-3 mph, which could provide a calm Lake Coeur d'Alene for swimmers who will started their day at 6 a.m. If forecasts hold, swimmers should be out of the water before stronger winds create choppy conditions.

Rogers, Azevedo take on key roles with Idaho Community Foundation

Rogers, Azevedo take on key roles with Idaho Community Foundation

ICF has another reason to celebrate. It recently surpassed a milestone of $200 million granted to Idaho communities since 1988 and is launching the "$200M Moment: Make More Good Possible" campaign, offering four Idahoans the opportunity to direct a $5,000-plus grant to a nonprofit of their choice.

Coeur d'Alene recognizes Juneteenth; 'Freedom Walk' on Thursday

Coeur d'Alene recognizes Juneteenth; 'Freedom Walk' on Thursday

Laster outlined the history of Juneteenth and Black history in Idaho. She said Jennie Eva Hughes was the first Black graduate from the University of Idaho in 1899. Dr. Thomas “Les” Purce was the first Black man to service in public office in Idaho when he was elected to Pocatello’s City Council in 1973 and became the city first Black mayor in 1976.

Thousands watch classic cruisers in downtown Coeur d'Alene

Thousands watch classic cruisers in downtown Coeur d'Alene

For more than two hours, roaring engines, squealing tires and honking horns filled the air as people admired the character and style of the vintage vehicles. Among them were a 1966 Chevrolet Impala, a 1972 Super Beetle, and a 1941 Willys Coupe. There were convertibles like the 1967 Mercury Monterey driven by Vic Beattie with wife LaDawn riding shotgun.

Last call to a crazy beautiful brother

More than anything, he loved being around family, a trait he inherited from our father. His smile and laughter filled the house. He could hug and say, “I love you” with such passion that you knew he meant it. They weren’t just words.

Vicky Richardson sets ride record in up and down day at Silverwood

Vicky Richardson sets ride record in up and down day at Silverwood

The 72-year-old rode Panic Plunge 60 times in about five hours on a sunny Saturday, beating her best of 50 times in 2023, which smashed her mark of 40 times in 2021. And she managed the feat with just one bathroom break. “It was a perfect day,” Richardson said.

More Kootenai County houses on the market

Median prices creep up

The median price of a single-family home in the county was $543,366 in May, up 3.5% from a year ago. Through May, 922 single-family homes have sold, an increase of 2.7% from the same time last year. Home were spending, on average 96 days on the market. "The higher price points are experiencing longer days on market than expected for this time of year, while the midrange segment is seeing a modest increase in multiple offer situations, indicating that well-priced homes in that category are still in strong demand," Smock said.

23rd annual Second Harvest fundraiser hits high notes in downtown Coeur d'Alene

23rd annual Second Harvest fundraiser hits high notes in downtown Coeur d'Alene

Musicians played for donations from noon to 1 at eight locations during the fundraiser for Second Harvest food bank. Country, gospel, Scottish and classical filled the air as shoppers walked from store to store.

Coeur d'Alene man creates 320-mile bikepacking Panhandle route

Coeur d'Alene man creates 320-mile bikepacking Panhandle route

On day one, June 21, riders could join the group as far as Fernan Saddle. Funatake said that while researching and scouting the route, she had a “most unusual encounter” when she was hit by an off-road motorcyclist.

Coeur d'Alene commits funds to drug fight

Special attorney will prosecute North Idaho cases

According to a staff report, “the opioid epidemic in general, and the fentanyl epidemic specifically, have affected families, strained law enforcement resources, and left local populations grappling for solutions to combat the pervasive impacts of substance abuse.

Police eye $145K training center

he 60’ by 40’ structure will be on the grounds near the police department headquarters. A shed where salt is stored for the street department will either be renovated or demolished, whichever turns out to be least expensive and most effective.

Coeur d'Alene councilors cool to plan to raise water rates

Call for workshop to review proposed price hikes to help cover $84M in capital improvements

Water Department Director Kyle Marine presented a proposal under which rates would rise to help pay for an eight-year, $84.3 million capital improvement plan.

Crowd cheers for 'Traditional Family Values' at Coeur d'Alene council meeting

Proclamation packs City Council meeting

The proclamation, which runs from Mother’s Day to Father’s Day, reads, in part, “Traditional families, consisting of a natural mother and father, children, and extended family, have been a cornerstone of society, fostering security, stability, and values of citizenship."

Donations flood CAC after Press story on pet food shortage

Donations flood CAC after Press story on pet food shortage

The Press reported on Thursday that CAC had to turn people away from its free monthly food pantry as the shelves were empty. For the first time in decades, it had to buy pet food to feed dogs under its roof as donations dried up. But by Tuesday, the famine had turned into a feast.

Lake Coeur d'Alene fishermen rescue man on burning boat

A boat was fully engulfed in flames Saturday at around 9 a.m. near Higgens Point.

Coeur d'Alene may charge more for water

Says rates not sufficient to cover long-term infrastructure replacement costs.

Prior rate studies implemented stepped rate structures to curb irrigation use and promote more efficient practices, but those measures have not effectively reduced consumption.

Adam Schluter back with another season of Monday Night Dinner at his Coeur d'Alene home

Adam Schluter back with another season of Monday Night Dinner at his Coeur d'Alene home

It was the 90th Monday Night Dinner since he began hosting them six years so. They’ll be held every other Monday through October, with the next one on June 9. Come August, Monday Night Dinner will hit 100, which to the Schulter, is “insane to think about.

'Garden Party' time

Deb Castellan loves life in neighborhood named to National Register of Historic Places

Deb Castellan, president of the Garden District board was part of the team that worked on the Garden District’s Historical designation for years. It was a long process of confirming facts, counting buildings, taking pictures, and documenting information.

Houghs reflect after sale of The Roosevelt Inn closes

Houghs reflect after sale of The Roosevelt Inn closes

Blue Fern Development, based in Redmond,Wash., purchased the Roosevelt Inn and surrounding property with plans to build townhouses. It planned to sell the Roosvelt, which it did. That deal has not yet closed and the buyer not publicly named. When the sale of Roosevelt Inn was reported last year by The Press, there was public outcry because initial plans called for the inn’s demolition. Due to public outcry, online petitions, and the city getting involved, it was saved.

Coeur d'Alene animal center's food shelves run dry

Shelter sees rising need, declining donations

CAC has about 50 dogs under its roof and goes through 100 pounds of food per day. It currently has 22 puppies in foster care, which are also fed with shelter food. The pet food pantry, available once a month to prequalified clients, has seen a 20% increase since last year in people needing assistance feeding their pets. There are 75 families registered and 42 of those showed up this month.

Four down, 32 lives to go

Teen, friends rescue abandoned kittens in crate off U.S. 95

Looking back were four tiny kittens, frightened and squished together against the back of the crate. They had been abandoned. Inside was a tiny bit of food and a small dish of water.

Coeur d'Alene councilors sound off during workshop

Juneteenth may be added as a paid holiday

Dan Gookin said he would like to see improved communication, public safety remaining a priority and suggested the city hire another buildiung inspector. “I think we could do more to expedite our service,” he said.

'All we can do is remember'

People urged to honor the sacrifice of those who died for their country on Memorial Day

Across North Idaho, flags fluttered, wreaths were carried forth and Taps played during ceremonies to honor those who served in the military and died for their nation. Young and old stood in silence, in respect for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. “From the beginning of our nation’s history, America’s patriots have always been at the forefront in defense of freedom and liberty,’ said Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Jason Legler to about 100 people at Veterans Plaza at McEuen Park.

A 'perfect day' greets runners in Coeur d'Alene

Ideal conditions for Coeur d'Alene marathon, half, 10K and 5K on Sunday

They were among about 2,500 runners who competed in one of four stance, the full Coeur d’Alene marathon, half, 10k and 5k on a picture-perfect day with clear skies and temperatures in the 60s and headed higher. The courses included the Sanders Beach neighborhood and the North Idaho Centennial Trail, with all races starting and ending at McEuen Park. The post-race celebration included food, drink, high fives, and lots of race recaps.

Charlie Nipp named grand marshal of Fourth of July parade

Charlie Nipp named grand marshal of Coeur d'Alene's Fourth of July parade

The Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber is proud to announce that Charlie Nipp, Partner at Parkwood Business Properties, has been named the 2025 Grand Marshal of the Chamber’s American Heroes Parade, presented by Idaho Central Credit Union. The parade will take place on Friday, July 4 at 10 a.m. on Sherman Avenue in downtown Coeur d’Alene, as part of North Idaho’s premier 4th of July celebration.

The pain and joy of the Manitou Incline

Some 250,000 people try this famous incline every year, which starts in the beautiful town of Manitou Springs. It goes up the Rocky Mountain near Pikes Peak. Most make it. Some turn back, likely to try again. The best can reach the top in 30 minutes or so. For normal people, an hour or more.