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
Jerry Staub pens book of poetry to reflect feelings on war
Jerry Staub pens book of poetry to reflect feelings on war
The Kootenai County man wanted to tell the stories of the Vietnam War from the standpoint of those who were there. He wanted to tell it stories through their eyes. He wanted to show his respect “for all the men and women who risked their lives amidst the boredom, fear, and abject terror that was Vietnam.”
Birthday party, Marine Corps style
250th celebration highlights honor, courage, commitment
The night was filled with cheers, praise, thank you and “oorahs” as the spirit of the Marine Corps seemed to pour in from every corner. There were touching moments, too, when the POW/MIA Table ceremony was held and a member of the Pappy Boyington family was introduced.
Woman loses appeal for massage facility in Coeur d'Alene
City Council upholds denial of license
“Specifically, you failed to disclose the revocation of your massage therapist certificate by the California Massage Therapy Council on Nov. 17, 2016, and the reasons therefore, which go to character and the fitness to engage in this type of business.
After nearly 25 years at the helm, Tony Berns leaving ignite cda
After nearly 25 years at the helm, Tony Berns leaving ignite cda
Berns joined ignite cda in December 2001 and spent the last 24 years helping community leadership create and develop numerous public/private placemaking projects, the release said.
2 seek Coeur d'Alene library trustee post
Steve McCrea leaves after more than two decades
Elizabeth Westenburg, library director, said two applicants were reviewed and a recommendation went to Mayor Woody McEvers, who in turn will make a recommendation to the City Council, which will vote on it.
Dan's the man
Gookin wins Coeur d'Alene mayor's race; Miller, Evans easily reelected to City Council
The mayor’s race saw popular figures vying for the city’s top elected position. The two are a style in contrasts, with McEvers preferring to be more of a guiding voice and letting city staff handle things, while Gookin offered to be more involved at City Hall.
Halloween happiness courtesy police, fire
CDA brothers unable to go trick-or-treating visited by first responders
The Press forwarded the note to both fire and police personnel. Both departments responded. Within hours, police arrived at the home of Nick and Brianna Shriner, followed by firefighters.
Mike Sims is fighting the good fight
Traffic calming measures could be considered, such as placing a mobile radar unit with a digital reader board that indicates a vehicle’s speed in the area. Or perhaps police might patrol the area more often.
IPUC approves water rate increase
Will affect nearly 4,000 people in Coeur d'Alene area
Gem State Water, owned by NW Natural Water based in Portland, Ore., operates water and wastewater utility services in the Coeur d’Alene area. It serves about 3,750 people through 1,500 connections. Its seven water systems include Bar Circle ‘S’ Water, Bitterroot Water, Diamond Bar Water, Happy Valley Water customers of Lynnwood Water, Spirit Lake East Water and Troy Hoffman.
Bridge over Appleway a sure thing
ITD says it's the only efficient way to move traffic through busy interchange
The goal of the proposed design is to expand the interchange, enhance safety and improve mobility to support future traffic volumes, which are expected to double by 2045, according to ITD.
NOV NIBJ.... Military skills translate well into civilian life
Bob Martin says what he learned in the Army paid off in the business world
The commander of VFW Post 889 in Coeur d’Alene, served in the military from 1963 to 1983. He served four tours in Vietnam and has three Purple Hearts. His military service gave him the tools to succeed in the private sector.
Retiring Coeur d'Alene police chief reflects on 33-year career
Lee White says he has experienced the best, and worst, of times
Coeur d’Alene’s 11-year police chief recently announced he was retiring in January. He will leave a legacy of reduced crime and a calm demeanor as he led the department through situaitons that put it in the national spotlight. It’s not his own accomplishment he wants to talk about as he sits in his office at police headquarters on Schreiber Way.
The games of a lifetime
Another game I treasured from childhood was “Snap Bowling.” This involved 10 small plastic pins, a bowling lane about a foot long, and a little man whose hand you pulled back, snapped into place, set a little metal ball in front of it, and pushed a button to send the ball on its way. It even had a nifty reset to place the pins back in their place.
Veterans share stories at Legends Park Assisted Living breakfast
Veterans share stories at Legends Park Assisted Living breakfast
Spirits were high, as they always are for the monthly free breakfast at Legends. Veterans came from near and far to get there. They served in the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines. At least one was part of World War II, most were in Vietnam, others in Middle East conflicts. They have their own reflections of their time in the military, their own personalities, and their own reasons for serving their country.
Coeur d'Alene police chief retiring
Lee White has led department through major incidents
In his letter notifying the city of his retirement, White wrote that Coeur d’Alene “had the misfortune of being the subject of national news on several occasions because of events outside of our control but the men and women of the department have always performed with competence and professionalism throughout these difficult circumstances.”
A road trip and the blues lead back to a good friend
I’m not a musician, but this I know: The man can make a guitar sing. Damn, he was good. The notes rose from the guitar in his hands, filling the room and mesmerizing a small crowd. When the spotlight fell to him for a solo, he was brilliant. I was blown away at his ability. I knew he was good. I didn’t know he was this good.
Crowd packs Coeur d'Alene City Park for Charlie Kirk Day of Remembrance
Crowd packs Coeur d'Alene City Park for Charlie Kirk Day of Remembrance
The day of Charlie Kirk’s birthday was marked by prayer and song as some raised their hands in praise. People traveled from throughout Kootenai County and from the Spokane area to be there for the ceremony that lasted about 90 minutes.
Pilgrim's Market owner says sales are up since Trader's Joes opened last year
Pilgrim's Market owner says sales are up since Trader's Joes opened last year
Pilgrim's has seen an increase in sales, with about 1,500 customers daily, which Hamilton attributes to more people in the area visiting Trader Joe’s and then crossing the street to shop at Pilgrim’s.
Running with the grandkids
I can no longer outrun her over short distances. She proved this on our Labor Day family gathering in McCall when we lined up to race a distance of about 25 yards. Someone said, “Go,” and she was gone. I huffed and puffed well behind. It was kind of sad. I felt ancient.
Coeur d'Alene Tribe buys back 30,000 acres of homeland
Coeur d'Alene Tribe buys back 30,000 acres of homeland
For the Tribe, the purchase represents far more than a land transaction. When the Reservation was first established in 1873, the entire area was promised to the Coeur d’Alene people. Over the last decades of the 19th century the federal government sold off large portions of the Reservation without the Tribe’s consent, leaving the Tribe with only a fraction of its homeland, a press release said.
Coeur d'Alene police officer, K-9 demonstrate crime-fighting skills for Pepper Smock and family
Coeur d'Alene police officer, K9 demonstrate crime-fighting skills for Pepper Smock and family
Smock donated $5,000 to the Coeur d’Alene police K9 program and in turn, he and family members were treated to a tour o pplice headquarters on Schreiber Way and demonstration by the Yasko and his handler, officer Hayley Vestman.
Proclamation for Charlie Kirk day in Coeur d'Alene draws opposition, support
Mayor McEvers takes heat from both sides
Mayor Wood McEvers signed a proclamation that declared “A Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk” on Oct. 14. It read, in part: “I call upon the people of our community to observe this day with programs, prayers, family gatherings, civic discussions and peaceful dialogues that celebrate his enduring contributions to our faith and values, while standing firm against violence and for the enduring power of open expression.”
Kootenai County housing market remains strong
Median price of single-family home rises to $547K
Housing prices solid
Bench dedicated to beloved swimmer at Sanders Beach
Bench dedicated to beloved swimmer at Sanders Beach
Braun lived near Sanders Beach and loved it. She was an active member of the Kroc masters swimming group and swam regularly at Sanders Beach. She was a significant contributor to the Shared Harvest Community Garden in Coeur d’Alene, loved biking and looked forward to prety much any adventure. She enjoyed traveling and worked internationally, as a medical officer in Nepal, Pakistan, Czechia and Bolivia.
Pulsipher letter shakes up Coeur d'Alene mayoral race
Pulsipher letter shakes up Coeur d'Alene mayoral race
On Friday, Pulsipher responded to questions from The Press about why he wrote the letter. “Unfortunately, a significant number of voters cast their vote based on recommendations by political party leaders. Woody, Dan, and I are NOT the KCRCC preferred candidates and risk splitting the non-KCRCC vote. This may lead to the KCRCC gaining control and influence in the city. We have already witnessed what KCRCC influence has done to NIC and the community library network,” he wrote in an email. “We cannot let that happen to our city.”
Blue helmets, Tommy Davis and a foul ball
Remembering days of the Seattle Pilots
The expansion Pilots, and their 64-98 record, had a tough time getting people to come to the ballpark. They drew about 675,000 people in their one season. In comparison, the Mariners drew about 2.5 million to 81 home games this year.
OCT NIBJ: Mountain Madness Soap had its start in North Pole, Alaska
Mountain Madness Soap had its start in North Pole, Alaska
It was more than 25 years ago that Morsell started experimenting with ingredients in the kitchen and making soap products as gifts for family and friends. It beat knick-knacks that usually end up collecting dust. “Soap was something I was always really drawn to,” she said.
Iowa couple survives harrowing RV trek into the mountains with help from Athol's Matt and Jen Roesner
Iowa couple survives harrowing RV trek into the mountains with help from Athol's Matt and Jen Roesner
The couple from Okoboji, Iowa were on day nine of their 15-day RV trip on June 29 and were trying to make their through the Bitterroot Mountains from Prichard to West Glacier, Mont. , a trip they expected to take about three to four hours.
People make the memories last a lifetime
A visit on Sunday to Silverwood reminded me what a fun place it is, but it was made an unforgettable day because my wife and I were joined by two grandsons, Harrison and Beau. The smiles and laughter seemed nonstop as they spent hours going from ride to ride. Such joy, hanging out with these two. Such a blessing.
Coeur d'Alene proposing changes to regulate e-motorcycles on trails, paths
Coeur d'Alene proposing changes to regulate e-motorcycles on trails, paths
The city of Coeur d’Alene Parks and Recreation Commission recently recommended that the City Council adopt new laws “to regulate the use of motor vehicles on trails and paths designed for pedestrian and bicycle traffic” and “to prevent harm to the health, safety, and welfare of the public.” According to a staff report, electric-powered transportation like scooters, skateboards, bikes and motorcycles “can exceed speeds that are safe for both the operator of these devices and the public using the trails around them.”
Mr Fix-it doesn't live here
The upstairs toilet in our house hadn’t been working for a few weeks because the inside guts of the tank needed to be replaced. I bought the parts, but when I ran into a bit of difficulty on the job, I decided there was no hurry. Maybe later. After all, we have a downstairs bathroom.
Leo Grace, 7, and sisters Sophia and Serena will be in the Barn Burner Chess Tournament on Saturday
Leo Grace, 7, and sisters Sophia and Serena will be in the Barn Burner Chess Tournament on Saturday
Leo Grace, currently ranked 67th nationwide in chess among seven-year-olds, will be competing this Saturday in the Barn Burner Chess Tournament at New Leaf Nursery. Both novice and experienced players will battle from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the tourney put by the CDA Chess Club. Anyone is welcome.
Petition started to save Museum of North Idaho's old home
Organizer says building could be renovated, provide big benefits to city
King said if the 4,000-square-foot building was preserved and repurposed, it could become a nonprofit children’s museum, attracting guests year-round, adding beauty and character to the city, boosting visitor spending and providing the city with a steady income. “People don’t want this building torn down. They want it to be preserved and put to work for the community,” King said.
Coeur d'Alene reaches tentative deals with police, LCEA
General fund cost estimated at $650K
For LCEA, the extension of the existing agreement is for two years, with a 3.5% market adjustment to wages for each year, Adams said. "Either party can ask to open negotiations on the amount of the second year market adjustment based on economic indicators or other factors at the time, Adams wrote.
A leap of faith thanks to fearless grandson
A few minutes later, after a short scramble up a dirt incline, we stood at the top and looked out. There were lscores of kayakers and paddlerbnoarders, and all were stopped, watching, and waiting for to go.
About 1,000 people attend candlelight vigil for Charlie Kirk at McEuen Park
About 1,000 people attend candlelight vigil for Charlie Kirk at McEuen Park
They prayed. They sang Amazing Grace. They held flags. They held hands and each other as they paid tribute to the man they said stood up for Jesus Christ. Pictures of Kirk were scattered through the crowd.
Pastors, elected leaders in Idaho reflect on the killing of Charlie Kirk
Pastors, elected leaders in Idaho reflect on the killing of Charlie Kirk
Pastor Paul Van Noy of Candlelight Christian Church was shaken by Kirk’s death. The two had been friends for about five years and Kirk spoke at Candlelight. He described him as a kind, thoughtful and brilliant young man whose intent was to help people. “One of the greatest minds in America and maybe around the world,” Van Noy said in a phone interview with The Press.
Post Falls American Legion Post receives 'Watering Hole' status
Post Falls American Legion Post receives 'Watering Hole' status
It was formed in 1919 by a group of American World War I veterans working in international trade and on construction projects in China and the first meeting was held at the American Club in Shanghai. In the late 1930s as the Japanese Imperial Army drew closer to Shanghai the post sent its record to legion headquarters in the U.S.
Median home price rises in Kootenai County
More homes being sold
Housing market prices still rising
'Rocket' rising to the occasion
KCSO therapy dog aims for national award for second time
Rocket, a Brittany Spaniel, serves alongside the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office Chaplain, supporting deputies, dispatchers, and community members through acts of comfort, encouragement, and companionship. His work includes:
100 degrees again in Coeur d'Alene
First three days of September hit triple digits
As temperatures soared to around 100 degrees Wednesday, many took to Coeur d'Alene Lake and the Spokane River to cool off.
Coeur d'Alene council OKs $151M budget
Includes 3% property tax increase, 1% in forgone taxes
Katie Ebner, finance director and treasurer, said a residential home with a taxable value of $600,000 will see a tax increase of about $1.25 a month from the overall 4% property tax increase. The budget calls for using $1.8 million from the general fund balance, leaving a projected $11.2 million unassigned fund balance at the end of fiscal year 2026 — about 19% of General Fund expenditures.
Fire season heats up
Temperature climbs to a record 103 degrees on Tuesday, the hottest day of the year
Due to unseasonably warm and dry conditions, 29 wildfires have been confirmed across the Coeur d’Alene Interagency Dispatch Zone since the storm.
Coeur d'Alene City Council to consider amendment to animal cruelty law
Coeur d'Alene City Council to consider amendment to animal cruelty law
This year, from March 20 until August 18, animal control received 58 calls for dogs in hot cars. Twenty-seven warnings and one citation were issued, while 30 vehicles have been gone prior to animal control arriving on scene. The amendment would prohibit “Leaving or confining an animal in any unattended motor vehicle under conditions that endanger the health or wellbeing of the animal due to heat, cold, lack of adequate ventilation, or lack of food or water, or other circumstances that could reasonably be expected to cause suffering, disability, or death to the animal.”
Candidates join Coeur d'Alene races
Final day to file sees new names
John Pulsipher joined the mayor race, and will face Mayor Woody McEvers, Councilman Dan Gookin and resident Debbie Loffman.
Hayden Homes donates $10K for program to help local families with housing
Hayden Homes donates $10K for program to help local families with housing
Funds raised through this campaign, administered by the Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA), will be earmarked exclusively for Kootenai County homebuyers who work and live locally.
North Idaho State Fair attracts nearly 170,000 visitors
North Idaho State Fair attracts nearly 170,000 visitors
It was a mostly smooth ride from day one to day 10. The Budweiser Clydesdales proved crazy popular, the rodeo was a once again a hit, the carnival pulled in young and old, the food was fantastic and even the weather cooperated with sunny skies and cool nights.
Ron McIntire reflects on 55th anniversary of Super 1 Foods
Ron McIntire reflects on 55th anniversary of Super 1 Foods
McIntire has been in the grocery store business since he was 12 years old. He has built an empire of Super 1 stores in Idaho, Montana and Washington.
Downtown Coeur d'Alene residents plead for police to crack down on vehicle racket
Downtown Coeur d'Alene residents plead for police to crack down on vehicle racket
aily and others at One Lakeside and Coeur d’Alene North pleaded with the City Council during public comment to encourage police to do something about it. They called for better enforcement of the city’s noise ordinance. She said police have been called repeatedly about the traffic noise on Lakeside and Sherman avenues, and Northwest Boulevard, but nothing is done.
Nannies, billies brought in to clear Coeur d'Alene hillside
Nannies, billies brought in to clear Coeur d'Alene hillside
Goats with names like “Black Betty” are more than just friendly and cute, she said. They have a reputation for eating almost anything but are particularly good at munching on brush and weeds.