BILL BULEY

Bill Buley covers the city of Coeur d'Alene for the Coeur d’Alene Press. He has worked here since January 2020, after spending seven years on Kauai as editor-in-chief of The Garden Island newspaper. He enjoys running.
Recent Stories
'National Trails Day' brings 100 volunteers to Canfield Mountain
'National Trails Day' brings 100 volunteers to Canfield Mountain
NRTP grew out of the stewardship work of Pend Oreille Pedalers, a long-standing Sandpoint nonprofit known for building and maintaining bike trails in the Idaho Panhandle. But as that work expanded, so did a realization.
Song, dance, unity highlights of Pride in the Park
Song, dance, unity highlights of Pride in the Park
Rena Herndobler worked at a booth selling Pride banners and stickers. She said Pride in the Park grows each year, which she saw as a sign of increasing attitudes of acceptance in the region.
Ancient Chinese game finds following in downtown Coeur d'Alene store
Ancient Chinese game finds following in downtown Coeur d'Alene store
Mahjong is a strategy game that originated in China and is played with small tiles with symbols. Generally, each game with four players last about 30 minutes. Players start with 13 tiles and take turns drawing and discarding to create melds, which are groups of tiles like three-of-a-kind, four-of-a-kind, and runs (like 2-3-4). Tiles in a run must all be the same suit. Suits are indicated by the symbols on the tiles. The first player to collect four melds and a pair, 14 tiles total, wins.
STRs: Maybe they won't be the ruin of us
If you see numerous bikes secured near a house with a combination lock linking them together, those are for guests.
CAC and the 'Seven Dwarfs'
Shelter puppies given names that fit their personalities
The colorful canines came to CAC from the same litter, Nelson said. Their mother is a mixed breed of terrier, American Staffordshire/retriever and labrador mix, which explains the wide range of unique pups. The father remains a mystery.
Coldwell Banker Schneidmiller Realty donates $50,000 for new veterans bus
Coldwell Banker Schneidmiller Realty donates $50,000 for new veterans bus
The bus is expected to be delivered to the Division of Veteran Services in Boise, where final details will be completed. It should arrive in Post Falls next week.
Coeur d’Alene Rotary Club awards $46K
20 organizations receive support for youth, education, health and more
“This year’s applications showed the depth of service work happening across Kootenai County, along with great need within our community,” said Lindsey Morgan, Grants Co-Chair of the Coeur d’Alene Rotary Club.
Coeur54 ready to swing away
16 golfers hope to raise more than $60,000 for nonprofits.
Support is strong for Coeur54. Already, more than $50,000 through 137 contribiutors has been raised toward the goal of $61,000.
JUNE NIBJ: Housing costs level out after big jumps
Median prices rose nearly 25% since 2021 in Kootenai County
Jared McFarland, 2023 Realtor of the Year who is with Century 21 Beutler and Associates, said inventory has remained relatively low, which continues to put upward pressure on pricing.
Monday Night Dinner moves to Coeur d'Alene Eagles 15th Street Pavilion; hundreds expected
Monday Night Dinner moves to Coeur d'Alene Eagles 15th Street Pavilion; hundreds expected
Be loud when it comes to grizzlies
While this could be a point of irritation for other hikers seeking solitude in the wilderness, I believe it is necessary. I certainly don’t want to surprise a grizzly, and trail running seems like a good way to do it.
'Flags and Flowers' program grows
Volunteers put up more than 150 downtown baskets
This investment of more than $6,400 further enhances one of downtown Coeur d’Alene’s most recognizable beautification efforts, bringing vibrant blooms and colorful flags to the downtown corridor this season.
$250K project smooths over rough section of popular path
$250K project smooths over rough section of popular path
The 23-mile North Idaho Centennial Trail stretches from the Idaho Washington state line to Higgens Point east of Coeur d’lene. It is used thousands of people each year and has an estimated annual economic of about $3 million.
Idaho facing severe summer drought
Above-normal temperatures, below-normal precipitation in forecast
Without much high elevation snowpack remaining to sustain natural flow, most reservoirs will not maintain storage levels for as long as they typically do and are unlikely to accrue additional storage, according to the report.
Thousands of geraniums planted outside Resort, other Hagadone properties
Thousands of geraniums planted outside Resort, other Hagadone properties
About 60 Resort staffers volunteered for the annual Geranium Day that sees some 40,000 of the flowers plant at The Resort, around the Boardwalk Marina, Hagadone Corp. headquarters, The Resort Golf Course, Hagadone Event Center, Hagadone Marine Center and other company properties.
John Padula: Born again, stepping up
Pastor says he will be a servant for the people
Julie Hensley: Ready to lead
She and her husband Joshua, who worked in law enforcement, also have built and managed several small businesses, and she handled the financial side. They also owned and managed properties.
Scott Chapple of Post Falls wins LPOIC adult rainbow division
Scott Chapple of Post Falls wins LPOIC adult rainbow division
Top honors were decided at the Lake Pend Oreille Idaho Club Spring Derby as Scott Chapple led the adult rainbow division and Bert Dennett secured the mackinaw title.
Geraniums planted around new water feature at The Resort
Geraniums planted around new water feature at The Resort
Waterfalls, driftwood and pine trees are also part of the setting created by Alderwood Landscaping that has a Northwest theme.
Crowd estimated at 1,000 attends faith celebration in Coeur d'Alene
Crowd estimated at 1,000 attends National Day of Prayer celebration in Coeur d'Alene
Pastors from many churches took turns reciting scripture and praying for elected leaders, educators, law officers, youth and President Donald Trump. They prayed for the salvation of souls, restoration of biblical foundations and an outpouring of God’s grace.
Don Johnston, John Adams and Marge Chadderdon had major influence on North Idaho
Don Johnston, John Adams and Marge Chadderdon had major influence on North Idaho
“It’s tough to lose all these people,” he said. “Each was a big part of North Idaho and how it is today.”
Terry and Deon Borchard closing music store after 41 years in Coeur d'Alene
Terry and Deon Borchard closing music store after 41 years in Coeur d'Alene
The building they were leasing on Government Way since 2016 was sold and new owners have plans for it. The Borchards searched for another site that could provide the size, location, visibility and rent they could afford, but came up empty.
SeaPort Airlines eyes CDA market
Sees strong potential in Spokane/Seattle flights
SeaPort Airlines found success about a year ago when it launched 20 daily flights between Boeing Field and Portland International Airport. Craford said it wants to be the regional airline with “hassle-free travel.”
MAY NIBJ: Simply the ' Best'
Veterans share love of life with coffee/retail business in downtown Coeur d'Alene
Customers to the bright, spacious downstairs location are greeted by a Bible verse, a large flag, a wall of honor with first responders patches, a mural depicting the culture, people and landscape of the area.
The wonder that is Race to Robie Creek
Robie Creek is one of those epic races that sticks with you. It calls you back. For me, it ranks up there with Bloomsday in Spokane, Haena to Hanalei on Kauai and the Dingle Marathon in Ireland. It is one of great natural beauty, but also one that hammers you mercilessly going up and coming down.
Median home price declines in Kootenai County
Mortgage rates above 6% slowing sales
"Historically, interest rates are tied to oil prices so as we see the prices of oil increase, we may see an increase in interest rates," he said. "The rates seem to be a driving factor. As soon as they dip below 6% we see a jump in activity and as soon as they go up things seem to cool off a bit."
Wolf Lodge may rise again
Construction could begin soon to rebuild iconic restaurant destroyed in 2024 fire
The couple stood at the site of the former restaurant on a gray and windy afternoon, traffic whizzing by on U.S. 90. The property that was once home to the popular Wolf Lodge is mostly grass and rock, debris scattered around, with a wagon wheel on the ground. A warn billboard attached to a post nearby reads “Wolf Lodge Inn.”
Poor snowpack could impact 'every Idahoan'
Levels of creeks, rivers, lakes and reservoirs expected to be lower
Streamflow forecasts for April through July are 48 to 91% of normal at the 50% exceedance level in the Panhandle basins.
Of all Hawaii's creatures, chickens left a lasting impression
Such is the dislike, bills have been considered in the Hawaii Legislature to allow residents to kill feral chickens. Some do kill them.
George and Katie Sayler have subscribed to The Press for more than 50 years
George and Katie Sayler have subscribed to The Press for more than 50 years
The retired government teacher and former legislator has long been involved in civic and public issues and strongly believes that each citizen is responsible for being informed.
Attainable housing's next phase in CDA
Atlas Mill project could open doors of homeownership
Infrastructure work on the nine-acre site next to Seltice Way is tentatively slated to begin this year and wrap up by spring 2027. Houses could be going up by the summer of 2027.
American Legion Post 143 banquet marked by awards, praise, thanks
American Legion Post 143 banquet marked by awards, praise, thanks
Post Falls Mayor Randy Westlund delivered the keynote speech. He said these days, many people focus on their rights, what they are owed and what others can do for them. “It’s not enough about duty,” he said.
Hayden Lake Marina expansion plan withdrawn
Those opposing project say they welcome a 'reset'
The IDL issued a preliminary order Friday. It states it was the applicant's decision "to withdraw their current application for reconfiguration and expansion of a commercial marina."
Former Press newsies making their mark
I’ve had the good fortune to work with and know these fine people. Each brought unique talents to The Press. I note that these former newsies all continued to be involved in communications after leaving The Press. Chasing news sticks with you, landing a big story, is exhilarating. Once it’s in your blood, it’s hard to let go, even if you try.
CDA couple joining Police Unity Tour to honor those slain in line of duty
CDA couple joining Police Unity Tour to honor those slain in line of duty
For Curt, the ride carries deep personal meaning. His father, Los Angeles Police Officer Keith Gregory DuPuis, was shot and killed in the line of duty on Oct. 27, 1966. This year marks the 60th anniversary of his father’s death, as well as the 30th anniversary of the Police Unity Tour itself.
Bill Greenwood praised at retirement party for leadership, passion
Bill Greenwood praised at retirement party for leadership, passion
Greenwood joined the city in March 1999. He worked his way up to supervisor, superintendent, interim director and finally, parks director in 2013.
Athol family loses home to windstorm, grateful for help as it vows to rebuild
Athol family loses home to windstorm, grateful for help as it vows to rebuild
The loss is especially painful for the family, who already had to start over once before. In 2018, they lost their home, belongings, and some animals in California’s Camp Fire. Daniel Wilson was born and raised in Paradise, where the couple also raised their children.
Post Falls church, school damaged in fire
Parent starts fundraiser to help with recovery
The Idaho State Fire Marshal's Office had an investigator onsite Monday. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation.
Mid-March snowfall a welcome sight for many in Coeur d'Alene
Mid-March snowfall a welcome sight for many in Coeur d'Alene
The Moseley have also been missing the snow this winter and with spring just around the corner, she worried it might be getting too late for it to make a final appearance.
St. Patrick's Day celebration set for Saturday in downtown CDA
St. Patrick's Day celebration set for Saturday in downtown CDA
Leprechauns, musicians, a costumed Guinness character and Irish wolfhounds are expected to stroll down Sherman Avenue starting at 3 p.m. at Eighth and Sherman and travel west to First Street.
Terry Gurno launches 'Unyielding Hope' nonprofit to encourage others
Terry Gurno launches 'Unyielding Hope' nonprofit to encourage others
At the center of this effort is Terry Gurno, whose own life journey shaped the heart behind the organization.
Housing prices steady, sales see slowdown
Real estate professionals expect strong spring
Jennifer Smock, co-owner, managing broker with Windermere/Coeur d'Alene Realty, said the current condition of the housing market is not uncommon for this time of year.
Panhandle drought conditions continue
Report: Snowpack well below normal at 60%
Idaho’s snowpack is well below normal on March 1. Normally by this time of year, the snowpack would have accumulated 80% of its typical peak amount, but this year, is only about 60% of the way there, the report said.
Friends recount snowmobile crash in the backcountry, crawling for miles to reach safety
Friends recount snowmobile crash in the backcountry, crawling for miles to reach safety
Around 1:30 p.m., Tyson pointed his 260‑horsepower machine up a steep hill. As he neared the top, the sled hit a patch of ice. In an instant it turned sideways, throwing him off line and shooting him in the wrong direction at nearly 60 miles an hour. He launched off a cliff and crashed through trees below, falling an estimated 120 feet.
Falling, but getting back up is the key
Tired, while running on Tubbs, I tripped on a rocky patch and went down hard on my knee. More embarrassing than anything because there were witnesses. Sunday night, I retrieved the dog blankets from her doghouse on the back deck so I could wash them, as they get a bit smelly. I loaded them up in my arms and walked through the living room to the stairs leading down to the laundry room downstairs.
MARCH NIBJ; The artisan of Spirit Lake
Inside the world of Anthony Berry and Lucid Tree Design
At 39, Anthony is the creator behind Lucid Tree Design, a one‑man operation producing some of North Idaho’s most striking handmade furniture and custom metalwork.
Veteran Ron Grigsby pens book about his brain injury and hopes to help others
Veteran Ron Grigsby pens book about his brain injury and hopes to help others
It recounts what happened on March 21, 2007, when Grigsby was working as an independent contractor for Blackwater in the Middle East. He was assigned to protect a convoy when it was hit by enemy fire. A blast threw him more than 40 feet. His helmet was caved in an inch and a half. He suffered multiple injuries that included a broken neck and a traumatic brain injury.
Local rights leaders reflect on the life of Jesse Jackson
Local rights leaders reflect on the life of Jesse Jackson
Jackson ran for president in 1988 and while he didn’t win, he did well enough as a Black candidate that it paved the way for Barack Obama’s election as president in 2008. “He had quite a following at the convention,” Stewart said.
City fights Redman's STR bill
Vacation rental association says HB 583 protects neighborhoods while respecting lawful home use
House Bill 583 clarifies that short-term rentals are a lawful residential use and may not be regulated more restrictively than other comparable residential properties. At the same time, the legislation preserves local authority to enforce noise, parking, public safety, and nuisance laws that apply to all residents.
Two couples reflected true love
What struck me, though, was how they were with each other. It was simple and sweet. They smiled often at each other. They exchanged knowing glances. They were kind to each other. They honored each other. They teased each other.