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
Remembering loved ones lost to drugs
Friends, family of overdose victims share the hurt during vigil
COEUR d'ALENE — Slowly, the stories emerged in the darkness Wednesday night at Independence Point. One woman talked of visiting a loved one, dying of a drug overdose, in the hospital. "The machine kept beeping," she said. She hoped he might come back. "He never did," she said. Another spoke of Uncle Luke, who also died of drugs. "We didn't even know he had a substance abuse problem," she said. One man said he lives with "what ifs" every day, playing back the overdose death of a loved one five years ago. "Something has got to give," he said. About 25 people came out for a candlelight vigil hosted by the Panhandle Health District and the Kootenai Recovery Community Center in remembrance of those lost to drug overdose. The vigil was held on International Overdose Awareness Day. There were 353 bags with battery-powered tea lights lined up on the steps of Independence Point, next to the dark waters of Lake Coeur d'Alene. Each stood for an Idahoan who died of a drug overdose last year.
Glacier, grizzlies and the Zen Guru
There is a time when it's best to stop running
running with bears.
Housing market on the move
Association president says there has been a recent uptick in activity
Housing market up and down
Fair sets attendance record
Jordan and team already looking to 2023
COEUR d'ALENE — When the North Idaho State Fair closed its gates Sunday, it was time for Alexcia Jordan and team to take a well-earned rest. But it's short rest, because planning is already underway for next year. "I'm so proud to be part of a group of people who just want to continually seek to improve," said Jordan, general manager and CEO of the annual event that set an attendance record for its 10-day run from Aug. 18-27. The North Idaho State Fair saw 168,567 guests come to the Kootenai County Fairgrounds this year, a 9% increase. It also set single-day record of about 18,000 visitors on Saturday. Jordan said while they were confident of a good year, the numbers were higher than anticipated. "We didn't expect to see that much in growth," she said. She attributed their success to the variety of activities, attractions and exhibits the fair offers, along with commitment to maintaining tradition. The fair marked its 100th year with the theme "Salute to a Century."
COVID-19 deaths hit 1,000 in North Idaho
The number of deaths attributed to COVID-19 in the Panhandle Health District recently hit 1,000. "Through the pandemic, we also have had over 3,500 north Idahoans hospitalized with COVID-19," wrote Katherine Hoyer, PHD spokeswoman. "This has a significant impact on families, livelihoods, and our community as a whole."
Where mouth and melon meet
Contests of all types keep smiles and laughs coming at the fair
When Lauren Bergendahl began setting up for the watermelon-eating contest Thursday afternoon at the North Idaho State Fair, there wasn’t a kid in sight. Twenty minutes later, two tables at the Jacklin Stage were filled with boys and girls, each with a slice of juicy, red watermelon in front of them.
'I felt my safety was compromised': Fears drive Cd'A librarian to quit
When Delaney Daly began her job at the Coeur d’Alene Public Library on Aug. 23, 2021 as children’s library supervisor, she had high hopes it would be a great chapter in her life. A little more than 10 months later, she quit. She said she no longer felt safe after repeated unfriendly encounters with parents over books they believed were inappropriate for children.
Work to resume on museum's new home
Board president hopes to raise funds with Camino de Santiago walk
On Thursday afternoon, Britt Thurman was standing on the partially built porch of the Museum of North Idaho's future home. “One of the first things that we're about to get started on is building out the porch, and then doing all kinds of exterior improvements to the White House,” said Thurman, the museum’s executive director. Following a long pause in construction, work on what will be an 11,500-square-foot facility to house exhibits, art and educational resources is set to resume soon.
Take a trip to 'Grandpa's Alley'
Engines that once powered farms come to life at vintage ag equipment display
Vintage ag equipment is cool
Knights like life in the 'Dog House'
About 140 volunteers churn out burgers, dogs, then donate proceeds to nonprofits
Knights at the fair
Addis, Amador, Souza support tax cuts
Agree funds will help people fight inflation
Three North Idaho legislators said Tuesday they support Gov. Brad Little’s plan to cut taxes to fight inflation. “I am an equal opportunity tax cutter,” said Rep. Jim Addis. “I like tax cuts.” Addis said he agrees that tax cuts will make a difference. “I like people to have money back in their pockets,” he said. Rep. Paul Amador said he was pleased to co-sponsor the governor’s proposal for a special session of the Legislature to address historic inflation, reduce taxes and strategically invest in education spending.
United, Cd'A stands: City honored for investment in citizens, service
City honored for investment in citizens, service
Jim Martin is on a 4,400-mile, 23-day journey through the West recognizing cities that invest in citizens, commitment and service. Coeur d’Alene is one of those cities. Martin, national outreach chair with The National Stars and Stripes and Learning Center based in Bloomfield, Mo., presented Mayor Jim Hammond and City Administrator Troy Tymesen with a proclamation on Monday. “Why we're doing this is because we think it's very important for our communities and our nation to really re-embrace the ideas behind informed citizenship, commitment and service," he said.
That'll do pig, that'll do: 4-H critters get plenty of attention at the North Idaho State Fair
4-H critters get plenty of attention at the North Idaho State Fair
At just 7 months old, Gerald already weighs 270 pounds. He is a big pig. With an attitude. “He's kind of crazy sometimes,” said Maddie Andres with the Ramsey Raiders 4-H Club. “And actually, this is my alternate because my other pig got hurt. But yeah, he's always been a little spunky.” Gerald is one of many pigs lounging around at the North Idaho State Fair at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds.
Short-term rentals on the rise
Some residents say STRs are adversely affecting neighborhoods
Jim Volke has had four neighbors in 22 years at his Cherry Hill home. Good folks, all. The fifth who arrived last summer, not so much. The home became a short-term rental. It was quiet at first, but then, it got busier. And louder. One bachelorette party was especially memorable. A large group of young men rented the home, hung out in the backyard, drinking, barbecuing, and swearing throughout the day and night. Volke said there are times he doesn't allow his grandkids to go into his backyard, afraid of what they’ll hear. “Something's got to be done,” Volke said Monday following a General Services/Public Works Committee meeting in the Library Community Room to hear a city proposal to get tougher with short-term rentals.
Seeing the 'Daylight'
Humane society hopes to top last year's record fundraiser
Tails at Daylight coming up
Cowboy up: Hank Jones, 8, will receive liver transplant from his mom, Amy
Mom donating liver for son
Fair means family
Ceremony marks grand opening of North Idaho State Fair
For Dave and Sue Nussear, the North Idaho State Fair is more than entertainment, food and fun. It’s family. “We know them all so well, we get along and we help each other,” Sue said of those involved with the annual event. “It’s just a wonderful group.” Dave Nussear served on the fair board for 26 years and now sits on the North Idaho Fair and Rodeo Foundation. “We’ll be here every day,” he said, as they waited for the grand opening of the fair to begin on a sunny, 91-degree Friday afternoon.
Possible crackdown on short-term rentals
To consider stricter laws, penalties and hire compliance company
The city of Coeur d’Alene is considering stronger laws to better regulate the rise in short-term rentals, including civil penalties, and the city may hire a company to enforce those laws. The General Services/Public Works Committee will take up the matter at its noon meeting Monday in the Library Community Room.
Century celebration: North Idaho State Fair opens today for 10-day run
Alexcia Jordan has been general manager and CEO of the North Idaho State Fair since 2016. “I'll never know enough. But learning how to take it as it comes and make sure we are as prepared as possible is probably what I've learned the most,” Jordan said. On Thursday, she and her crew were busy taking care of details for the 10-day celebration that runs today through Aug. 28 at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds. Jordan, wearing a shirt that said, "I can't keep calm, it's fair week!," buzzed about in a cart, maneuvering around crates and chatting with folks as she went.
Riley: Wrong time for fire district override levy
Grant would fund 12 firefighters for Northern Lakes Fire District
After six override levy defeats in 10 years, the most recent a $2 million proposal in November, Northern Lakes Fire District Chief Pat Riley is not proposing another one. At least not now. “Believe me, this is not a pitch for an override levy at all,” he told about 25 members of the Rathdrum Chamber of Commerce on Thursday at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church. “Not doing it. We’re not going there. We’re not there. This is definitely the most wrong time.”
String of scorchers
Cd'A has seen 25 days with highs over 90 degrees
90 is the new normal
Prairie Trail to grow
Plan calls for extending dead end at Huetter Road to Meyer Road and beyond
The 3-miles-long Prairie Trail comes to an abrupt end at Huetter Road. Go no further. Turn around. That should change next year. The Coeur d’Alene City Council on Tuesday unanimously accepted a $250,000, no-match grant to help fund extending the Prairie Trail just more than a mile to Meyer Road.
Lottery and a prayer
Council changes policy; invocations won't be led by Christian pastors only
A vote and a prayer
The making of 'The Miner'
Bronze statue created by Terry Lee a tribute to history while looking to the future
The Miner is home
The heart of the matter
Doctors tout impact of Kootenai Health Heart Center expansion
A $40 million expansion project that includes the Kootenai Health Heart Center, operating rooms and Kootenai Outpatient Surgery is moving ahead at Kootenai Health. It will add 37,000 square feet to the heart center, nine new patient rooms, a new cardiac catheterization lab and a new electrophysiology lab for heart rhythm disorders.
Roots in real estate
Jared McFarland named Realtor of the Year
McFarland earns real estate honor
'Legacy' lives on the water
Coeur d’Alene Antique & Classic Boat Festival continues today at floating boardwalk
Beautiful boats on display
Cd'A council to decide on prayer policy
Any nonprofit, faith-based organization could give invocation under lottery system
The Coeur d’Alene City Council on Tuesday is scheduled to consider changing its policy regarding who says the opening prayer before its meetings. A proposed amendment would allow any nonprofit faith-based organization within Kootenai County to provide the invocation. It would also involve a lottery system to sign up for invocations. The issue has been the subject of debate since earlier this year when the city changed its long-running practice of having the Kootenai County Ministerial Association, a Christian organization, schedule invocation leaders, and opened it up to other faiths.
Doctor, visionary, leader
Terence Neff honored for service in health care
Man of vision
The Rescuers
Local teens help save two who nearly drowned at NIC beach
COEUR d’ALENE — When Garrett Leonard heard someone was in trouble just off the dock at North Idaho College, he ran to help. He looked into the clear waters of Lake Coeur d’Alene and saw a motionless body about 12-feet down at the bottom. The 15-year-old dove in. He grabbed the lifeless male by the shirt and pulled him to the surface. “I thought he was dead,” Leonard said Wednesday. “It was the scariest moment of my life.” The teenage boy survived, along with another teen who nearly drowned Tuesday afternoon at the NIC beach. At least one, believed to be underwater for about three minutes, was likely saved by the actions of several people who responded, including four local teens. Craig Etherton, inspector with the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department, said that because both males quickly received CPR, it probably saved their lives. “I think so,” he said.
Senior housing plan gets commission's OK
Would add 67 units at Orchard Ridge
A 67-unit housing project at Orchard Ridge Senior Living was unanimously approved by the Coeur d’Alene Planning Commission Tuesday night. Executive Director Ann Johnson said there is a “huge need” for affordable senior housing. Orchard Ridge, just off Northwest Boulevard near the Spokane River Bridge, has a one- to- five-year waiting list for senior independent living. “This project fulfills that need,” she said. The commission agreed.
A doggone good tale
Woman sees dog left behind by driver, adopts it
Doggone happy
PIT count: Fewer homeless are here
But it's hard to say why, say those who help them
The most recent Point-in-Time Count found the homeless population in Region 1's North Idaho counties declined in the past year.
'The Miner' a major player
Terry Lee statue dedication set for Aug. 15 at Sixth and Front
Mining and more
New home for Old Glory
Veterans monument dedicated at St. Thomas Cemetery
Monument honors veterans
'Love isn’t dividing our city'
Anonymous letter writer criticizes 'North Idaho Rejects Hate' campaign
Several businesses in downtown Coeur d'Alene received letters signed "J.H. and family" criticizing them for having North Idaho Rejects Hate signs in their windows.
The really big weekend
Art on the Green, Taste of Coeur d'Alene, Street Fair attract crowds on opening day
Big weekend
Cd'A sets $123M 'high water mark' budget; includes 3% tax hike
Public hearing set for Sept. 6
For only the second time since 2014, the Coeur d’Alene City Council is proposing to take the allowable 3% property tax increase in its budget. City Comptroller Vonnie Jensen said it will generate $710,216 in the city’s 2022-23 financial plan. She said it is being recommended due to the decrease in the amount the city will receive from the closing of the Lake District, an urban renewal district. Jensen noted that in the last nine years, the city could have taken up to 27% in property tax hikes, but has instead taken just 5.5%. “If the City Council agrees to this, the city will still be returning approximately $1 million to its citizens,” Jensen told the council on Tuesday.
City Council leaves clenched fist out of public art program
A piece of artwork titled “Solidarity” brought a vocal crowd, opposed to its public display, to Tuesday’s Coeur d’Alene City Council meeting. The clenched fist made of fabricated steel and created by artist Rick Davis was one of six art pieces recommended for ArtCurrents, the city's public art placement program.
Opposition rises against cell tower
Meeting set for Aug. 4
A hearing is scheduled this week before a Kootenai County hearing examiner on a proposed cell tower off Potlatch Hill Road in Coeur d'Alene. "I do not support the building of a cell tower on this property or in this area," wrote Coeur d'Alene resident Barb Zimmer. She said it is a residential area of nearly 100 homes and properties.
Buttigieg praises West for green efforts
U.S. Transportation secretary says infrastructure must be protected from threats of extreme weather
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg outlined how climate change is affecting the nation’s transportation infrastructure in his presentation during the final day of the Western Governors' Association annual meeting. “Climate change is real, climate change here,” the former presidential candidate said Thursday morning in a short speech at The Coeur d’Alene Resort.
VA boss: 'Fighting like hell' for veterans
McDonough outlines progress in providing services, opportunities.
In his address to the Western Governors’ Association about serving and honoring veterans, Denis McDonough used words like collaboration, transparency, market-based assessments and improving outcomes. “If you weren't thinking I was a D.C. bureaucrat with a tie, I'm sure those phrases help,” the secretary of Veterans Affairs said Wednesday morning, as the governors wearing boots and open-collared shirts laughed. But McDonough, wearing a suit, was serious as he explained the federal government can’t take care of the country’s 17 million veterans alone.
'Cowboy code' guides western governors
State leaders say unity is their strength in meeting challenges
The first meeting of the Western Governors Association in three years brought together eight state leaders guided by the “cowboy code.” They finish what they start, said WGA Executive Director Jim Ogsbury. When something needs doing, they do it. It’s not what they say, it’s what they do. Citing the 1934 novel “Code of the West” by Zane Grey, Ogsbury spoke of “unwritten rules centering on hospitality, fair play, loyalty and respect for the land."
Vilsack: National forest management must improve
Death of Post Falls man cited in opening speech at governors meeting
COEUR d’ALENE — The death of a Post Falls man who died in a helicopter crash while fighting a fire was cited as motivation for federal and state governments to do all they can to minimize forest fires. Tom Vilsack, Secretary of Agriculture, said the loss of 41-year-old Thomas Hayes of Post Falls and 36-year-old Jared Bird of Anchorage “emphasizes the important work that we have to do to try to reduce the risk of wildfire. “It's obviously a very tragic circumstance and situation and I just want you to know our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with the families of those who have been lost," he said.
100 and counting
People urged to take care, during hottest days in more than a year
Lane Morris and Grayson Lefever found a great way to cool off on a 93-degree Monday: Stand under cold water at the McEuen Park splash pad in Coeur d'Alene. They're likely to have lot of company this week. The thermometer is expected to hit triple digits Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, as the hottest days of the year hit North Idaho.
Swimmer goes length of Lake Coeur d'Alene
Kim Bowler reportedly first to accomplish feat
On Sunday afternoon, Kim Bowler began swimming at Heyburn State Park. Twenty-four miles later, she stopped. The Liberty Lake woman was reportedly the first person to swim the length of Lake Coeur d’Alene, finishing on the shores of Tubbs Hill to the cheers of a small crowd of supporters on Monday morning.
Police openings take toll
Chief White hopes signing bonuses attract new officers
The Coeur d’Alene Police Department has the most openings, 14, since Police Chief Lee White came on board in 2014. "Before, I could fill those openings fairly quickly,” he said. But not now. The impact of so many unfilled police posts has been substantial, including canceled vacations, overtime and officer burnout.
Their cross to bear — for 33 miles
Iraq War veteran will lead spiritual journey next weekend
Cross to be carried 33 miles
Housing sales slow, listings rise
More than 1,000 single-family homes available in Kootenai County
Housing market cools