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Obituaries
Glenn Belden, November 23, 2017
Robert W. Burns, August 21, 1934 ~ November 26, 2017
Claire Orlean Cossairt Godwin, October 9, 1925 ~ November 25, 2017
Brian Murray, October 22, 2017
Barbara M. Cratty, January 13, 1940 ~ November 25, 2017
Richard "Dick" Cowles, April 5, 1935 ~ November 9, 2017
Ralph Emerson Johnson, March 23, 1921 ~ November 19, 2017
Marilyn June Hintze, March 9, 1929 ~ November 19, 2017
Donald Robert Marsh, July 5, 1938 ~ November 17, 2017
George Prentice Kalb, February 11, 1932 ~ November 17, 2017
James Paul Winslow, Sr., February 19, 1928 ~ November 15, 2017
Jay Jeppesen, November 16, 1933 ~ November 19, 2017
Carolina Lynn Hays, November 11, 1966 ~ November 10, 2017
Shirley Lorraine Lindberg, July 14, 1925 ~ November 3, 2017
Mike Phillips, November 9, 2017
Susan Lee Rogers, September 15, 1943 ~ November 3, 2017
Teresa Lue Marquette, August 19, 1957 ~ October 28, 2017
Timothy Allen Cromwell, October 1, 1967 ~ September 22, 2017
Social
Say hello to Emma Lynn: Emma Lynn and was born in Sandpoint October 29 Jackie and Chris Pierce, Bonners Ferry. She joins big brother Gabe and sister Abby. She weighed six pounds, nine ounces and she was 19 inches long.
Troy honor roll students named: Troy High School and Junior High have released the names of their latest honor roll and high honor roll students. Congratulations to each for their hard work and diligence!
Josh Knaggs BCSD Certified Employee of the Month: It is an honor to recognize Mr. Josh Knaggs as the Certified Employee of the Month for October 2017. Mr. Knaggs is a versatile person to have in a school. He is the art teacher at Bonners Ferry High School, and he is starting to round the corner toward a decade of service at BFHS.
Elijah Parlow is Badger Awesome! I would like to recognize Elijah Parlow as an exceptional learner. He arrives to class daily with a smile and ready to work. His fine-tuning can easily be overlooked as he diligently answers his questions and checks them himself, while periodically stopping to help the students around him. By Rachel Wheatley
Badger Awesome Student of the Week is Miranda Wenk: Miranda Wenk, a senior at BFHS, is a great student dedicated to her school. When she isn’t playing sports of her own, she goes to all the games she can and cheers on her fellow Badgers. Not only is she a phenomenal “cheerleader,” but Miranda excels academically.
Sports
BFWC has good showing at Bigfoot Battle: Bonners Ferry Wrestling Club placed 24th out of 120 teams at the USA Wrestling Bigfoot battle tournament. Eli Richards led the way by taking first in the 130 pound Middle school division, scoring 26 team points.
Lady Badgers open season with a win: "It was fun," Badger coach Travis Hinthorn said of their season opener tonight. "We got a little wild later in the game, but we'll calm down as the season goes on." Despite opening game rambunctiousness, the Badgers did what they set out to do, earning an opening game win over the visiting St. Maries Lumberjacks, 53-42.
KVSA gearing up for Gun & Horn Show: The Kootenai Valley Sportsman Association will be hosting the annual Gun and Horn Show at the Boundary County Fairgrounds February 9 to 11 2018. Be sure to come check out the horns and a wide range of vendor booths along with raffles for a rifle and more!
Kootenai Valley Rifle and Pistol Club season now underway: The Kootenai Valley Rifle and Pistol Club (KVRPC) is dedicated to the sport of small bore shooting and they invite all  interested people to join them.
Dump your big game carcasses properly: When you're done butchering a big-game animal, there's usually bones, hide and other inedible parts that should be double-bagged, securely tied, and put out with your household waste for garbage collection.
BF Wrestling Club wraps season: The Bonners Ferry Wrestling Club had their end of the season potluck Monday night. The kids finished the season strong with many medals and ribbons won. They even won the Battle of the North tournament and received a trophy. Members Dalton Regehr, Marcus Regehr and Aiden Dodd went undefeated this season.
Jordan back on the 'Dirty Dozen:' Last week we had an all district one coaches meeting where we selected what we call the “Dirty Dozen,” which is essentially our All-District 1 Idaho Cross Country team. By Coach Tyler Warner
Idaho anglers asked to take a poll ... no, uh, not pole: Interested anglers have through November 13 to take part in an online survey about fishing in Idaho. The survey covers a variety of topics, including how often people fish and their preferred fish species, what types of fishing regulations they support, and what important conservation priorities Fish and Game should pursue.
Bonners Ferry brings home Battle For The North trophy: The Bonners Ferry Wrestling Club traveled to fight in the Battle For The North Tournament at Lakeland November 2, and won the under 50 Members Division! Six Bonners Ferry wrestlers won in their weight divisions.
Julia Cummings brings home first Badger state swim title: Badger swimmer Julia Cummings traveled to Boise Thursday for the 2017 Idaho High School Swimming State Championships, and brought home Bonners Ferry High School's first and so far only Idaho state swimming title.
Nonresident elk tags sold out for 2017, deer selling fast: Idaho Fish and Game sold out its nonresident regular deer and nonresident elk tags for the first time in nearly a decade, and nonresident hunters wanting whitetail tags better act. It's the first time since 2008 all nonresident elk tags have sold.
Letters
Idaho Senator Shawn Keough: I thought I'd send this invitation as this coming Saturday is the day for the Meet & Greet that I am hosting for Jim Woodward and Mike Boeck, and you are invited! This Saturday, December 2, I'll be holding one at Mugsy's in downtown Bonners Ferry from 9 to 11 a.m. and then in Sandpoint from noon to 2 p.m. at the Sandpoint Elks Club.
Janna Stanford: Can you say "finally?" LOL! Seems like we have been trying to pull this together for a lifetime. We are excited to share that Boundary Discount is going to have another POP-UP store! It's all happening from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. this Thursday, November 30, through Saturday, December 2.
Henry Yoder: Six hundred people got fed at the third annual community Thanksgiving Dinner, sponsored by the Boundary County Ministerial Association with lots of other volunteers from the community, including the LDS church, Jessie Murphy and Heather Gray representing the Border Patrol, and two teens from the Explorer program, which is sponsored by the Border Patrol. A Ministerial Association pictorial
Rosanne Smith: There seems to be some confusion regarding my involvement concerning the city Ordinance Codification. Why I was “thrown under the bus” at the November meeting I do not know. But being labeled a “malcontent” is worth it.
U.S. Senator Mike Crapo: Idaho veterans and veterans service providers have been among those assisting with hurricane recovery and other emergency response. Staff from the Boise Veterans Affairs Medical Center headed to Puerto Rico to assist. Area veterans and veterans service providers have skills of great use in a variety of fields, especially emergency response.
Pastor Brent Dehlbom: I write to endorse Val Thompson for Bonners Ferry City Council. Val has served as an educator, with a full heart and open mind, for over 20 years. In this capacity, I witnessed leadership qualities that make her an excellent city council candidate.
U.S. Congressman Raul Labrador: One of the best things about my job is helping Idahoans solve problems by turning their good ideas into law. This week, the House passed a bill to enact a really good idea brought to me by a pair of third-generation Idaho loggers.
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Boundary County Archives ~ November 2017
News
November 30
Third WarmHearts Winter Drive underway: Columbia Bank is launching its third annual Warm Hearts Winter Drive to benefit families and individuals struggling with homelessness in the northwest. The Bank plans to raise $225,000 and more than 10,000 items of warm winter wear to support more than 50 local homeless shelters.
North Idaho doctor gets 16 years in prison: Dr. Rafael Beier, 63, of Kingston, was sentenced Wednesday to 192 months in federal prison followed by ten years of supervised release for unlawfully distributing oxycodone and hydrocodone, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced. He will also pay a $63,000 fine and to forfeit proceeds of $732,800. 
November 29
If suspicious of seasonal delivery drivers, call cops: A notice going around on social media giving a Bonner County phone number to call if you see suspicious seasonal UPS, FedEx or other delivery drivers in private vehicles this holiday season isn't quite correct. If you see suspicious delivery drivers, no matter who they purport to be working for, call local law enforcement.
Hanna Flats GNA open house set: The Idaho Panhandle National Forests is holding an open house to share information and answer questions on the Hanna Flats Good Neighbor Authority Project on the Priest Lake Ranger District.
Court dispositions and sheriff's log
November 28
Naples Holiday Festival craft fair will be huge: This year at the Naples Holiday Festival, an event that will take over the town December 9 with fun events including but not limited to crafts for kids, food booths, popcorn and movies at the fire station, rides on the fire trucks, Christmas trees for sale, ice skating if it's cold enough ... and a craft fair that is going to be bigger and better than ever!
Rotary learns about BFHS CTE programs: The Rotary Club of Bonners Ferry met today and received a great treat as Kevin Dinning, principal of Bonners Ferry High School, and Jennifer Mackey, Advanced Opportunities Counselor, spoke to members about the Career & Technical Education certification programs available at BFHS. It’s quite impressive, members and guests learned, what the high school offers.
4-H Know Your Government deadline extended: Attention eighth and ninth graders! The deadline to register for the Idaho 4-H Know Your Government (KYG) Conference has been extended to Friday, December 1. All age-eligible 4-H members are encouraged to take advantage of a great opportunity. If you are interested or have questions, please call Amy at the Boundary County Extension Office, (208) 267-3235.
BCH Trees of Care to help BoCo Backpacks:  This year Boundary Community Hospital is sponsoring Christmas Trees of Care in their Outpatient Services Lobby, Emergency Waiting Area and at Boundary Community Clinics for the benefit of Boundary County children through the BoCo Backpacks program. Special limited edition, hand-crafted ornaments, created by Naples, Mt. Hall and Valley View elementary school students, will be available for a $5 suggested donation.
4-H Friday Friends looking for Greek mythology tutor: Help! 4-H Friday Friends needs a volunteer! After a student's request, they are starting a Greek Mythology study, and would love to have a community member to help! If you could go in for an hour or two, beginning this Friday, and share any information, art or just read a story having to do with Greek mythology, your help would be gratefully appreciated.
Holiday Spice at The Pearl Theater: Add a little spice to your holidays by joining the Boundary County Community Orchestra, directed by Glenda Novinger, as The Pearl Theater presents “Holiday Spice” at 3 p.m. Sunday, December 10, for the orchestra’s holiday music celebration. It’s best to arrive early, as seating is limited to the first through the doors.
Suicide hotline celebrates five years, launches Crisis Chat: The Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline celebrates five years of continuous operations this week. ISPH launched on November 26, 2012, and has grown steadily ever since, adding shifts to achieve 24/7 phone response in 2014.
November 27
Woman killed in Thanksgiving crash identified: The Flathead County Coroner's office has released the name of the woman who died in a Thanksgiving night collision on Montana Highway 35 north of Creston. Initially thought to be from Troy, she is Frankie Elaine Sizemore, 28, Columbia Falls, Montana.
Looking for a few Pearl techs: Most people in Boundary County have heard of The Pearl Theater, and many of you support it by attending incredible shows and events at its unique venue on Ash Street. But few realize that there is another way to get involved with The Pearl, while making a bit of cash ...
U of I Master Gardener course coming in January: Interested in learning more about growing plants in Boundary County? The University of Idaho's Master Gardener course will begin in mid-January and will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m. at the UI Extension Office in Bonners Ferry.
Outdoor Idaho explores Pioneer Mountains: Positioned between glamorous Sun Valley and desolate Craters of the Moon, the Pioneer Mountains are, for many, just a blank spot on the map. This year the Outdoor Idaho crew set out to change that, exploring the valleys and the highest peaks throughout the seasons. "Into the Pioneers" airs at 7 p.m. Sunday, December 3.
November 26
Washington man killed in freak Highway 95 accident: A Washington man was killed in a tragic freak accident this afternoon on Highway 95 near Sagle. According to Idaho State Police, Charles Jungblom, 70, Davenport, was killed when another vehicle hit a deer, launching into the windshield of the vehicle Junblom was riding in.
Forest Legacy gains over 5,000 acres: The Idaho State Land Board unanimously approved the purchase of conservation easements on eight parcels of land in Boundary County under the Forest Legacy program, allowing the properties remain as working forest under private ownership.
Schweitzer open despite warm, wet weather: A nice and calm sky greets us this Sunday morning. There is a chance of a little more wet weather today before the colder temps roll back into the area next week to get us geared up for daily skiing starting on December 1! Schweitzer Snow Report
November 25
Troy woman killed in Thanksgiving crash: A 26-year-old Troy woman was killed in a two-vehicle crash Thanksgiving night in Flathead County near Kalispell. The names of those involved have not been released and the crash remains under investigation.
Bigger is a better propaganda machine: After spending 60-plus years shuffling around the world knowing that I'll never be able to reach anything on any top shelf, I've grown used to the idea that midgets had nothing to do with designing the world. Musings from Moyieboy, by Ken Carpenter
November 24
It's official - Santa says Christmas season is here!
Santa’s visit to Bonners Ferry 2017 was a complete success with roughly 160 children in attendance! The Bonners Ferry Chamber alone could not have planned this event alone and they want to provide several community members an outstanding thank you for all of their help!
Troy Schools get boost from local business: It is terrible when you write something nice about a Boundary County business and then you have to turn around, the very same day, and write something nice all over again! Superintendent Jacob Francom says Troy Public Schools are grateful for an annual $500 grant the district was recently awarded, funded by the Three Mile Corner Store & Cafe.
Sandpoint teen still missing after a week: Jeannie Lunde, Sandpoint, posted today that her step son, Austin Smith, 14, is still missing after over a week. He was last spotted in Old Town, and is believed to be trying to head to California. If anyone knows of this child’s whereabouts please call Bonner County Sheriff's dispatch at (208) 263-8417, or Sandpoint Police at (208) 265-1482. UPDATE: Found safe!
A Thanksgiving run, a Thanksgiving feast: For some, Thanksgiving is a day in the kitchen, the savory and spicy smells filling the air for hours before the feast is brought to the table. For others, it's being with family and friends. For some, though, it's about serving others, and two annual Thanksgiving events, the Turkey Trot and the free Thanksgiving dinner at Three Mile Cafe, epitomize the latter.
Sustainable small farm course offered: A "Starting Your Sustainable Small Farm in Idaho Short Course" series of classes will be offered in January in eight Idaho towns, including Bonners Ferry! This course helps new and aspiring farmers take the first steps toward setting goals, assessing resources available and exploring enterprises that are the best fit for you and your land.
November 23
The calm before Santa!
 
Georgia Mae Plaza was calm and serene this Thanksgiving morning, in spite of the welcoming ginger bread town created by Barb LePoidevan and friends in anticipation of Santa's arrival on Friday. Darryl and Kathy Nitta, Spokane, are enjoying an "empty nest" visit to Bonners Ferry along with their dog, Foster, and they took advantage of the serenity to walk through today and enjoy the display! The scene will be quite different come 4 p.m. Friday when Santa is scheduled to arrive!
Wind advisory in effect until 6 p.m.: The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for much of North Idaho, including Boundary County, in effect until 6 p.m. today. West to southwest winds of 10 to 20 miles per hour, with gusts of 45 to 55 miles per hour accompanied by a line of showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop between 1 and 6 p.m.
One dead, several injured in Thanksgiving-eve collision: Updated: Two North Idaho families are in the hospital after a head-on collision on about two miles south of Sagle at around 6:39 p.m. on the eve of Thanksgiving Wednesday. At 11:40 a.m., the Idaho State Police reissued their press release, reporting that James Moore died of his injuries this morning.
November 22
~ Local family involved in Bonner County collision ~
NewsBF has confirmed that one of the vehicles involved in a two-car collision earlier tonight near Sagle belongs to a Boundary County family, and that there are injuries, some serious, but none considered life threatening. The family appreciates the prayers and thoughts of the community, and requests privacy as they pull together to face this crisis. Thank you.
Tree of Memorial Light remembrance slated: Everyone is invited to the Bonner General Health Hospice Tree of Memorial Light Ceremony, taking place in Bonners Ferry at 4 p.m. Sunday, December 3.
Blanchard woman treated after I-90 crash: A semi driver attempting a lane change near mile 11 on I-90 in Coeur d'Alene this morning sent a Blanchard woman to the hospital and shut down the eastbound lane for about four hours.
Scott asks residents to learn more about proposed silica smelter: Idaho District 1 Representative Heather Scott recently sent her Bonner County constituents a letter alerting them to plans by a Canadian corporation to establish a silica smelter plant on land straddling the Bonner County, Idaho, and Pend Oreille County, Washington, between Oldtown and Newport, and encouraging those interested to a public meeting to be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 29, in Newport.
County business featured in regional journal: Clark Fairchild's picture is big and bold in today's issue of Spokane's Journal of Business, with him standing in front of a snow-covered mound of the chips that make up the North Idaho Energy Logs made right here in Boundary County.
Weather spotter training offered: The National Weather Service is partnering with Boundary County Emergency Management to offer a free weather spotter training class from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, November 28, at the former National Guard Armory, 6566 Main Street, Bonners Ferry.
Two horses awaiting owner at Moose Valley: These two were found this morning across Highway 95 from Moose Valley Farms, a bay mare and a sorrel bald faced mare. If you know who belongs to them, please contact Moose Valley Farms via Facebook or at (208) 267-5108.
Gabi is missing in Camp Nine area: Paula's bird brain has gone chasing the deer! She's sure she's wet and cold out there, peering into a warm family's window, wondering how to get home. Please help her find us again! She lives just past Camp Nine Road and answers to the name of Gabi. She was wearing a black collar with a little black box on it. UPDATE: Sadly, Gabi was taken home and laid to rest. Our condolences to Paula and her family.
Court dispositions and sheriff's log
November 21
Bonners Ferry FFA a National Two Star Chapter!
 
The Bonners Ferry FFA Chapter has been recognized as a Two Star Chapter in the 2017 National Chapter Award Program from the National FFA Organization. The program recognizes outstanding FFA chapters from throughout the country that actively implement the mission and strategies of the organization. Click here to read more!
Katka Face Road is reopened: The road closure that has been in place on Forest Service Road #314 Katka Face Road in Boundary County has been rescinded. The repairs are complete and the popular road leading to many recreation areas is now open. For additional information, please contact the Bonners Ferry Ranger District at 208-267-5561.
CdA man facing prison after running from traffic stop: A common but illegal left turn, a man afraid of his outstanding warrants and worst-case mental images of an unknown felon on the loose all crashed together Sunday afternoon, leading to a usually peaceful neighborhood becoming the scene of a nearly five-hour manhunt.
Rotary buys turkeys for food bank: Once again, Rotary Club of Bonners Ferry heard from the Community Action Partnership Bonners Ferry, the food bank, that they were in need of turkeys for Thanksgiving baskets for local families. Representatives from the Rotary Club gathered to help purchase and transport 50 turkeys toward this need.
Plain little chickadee ain't no bird brain: You commonly see them flitting about, the small, perky black and gray birds with the black hat and bib. A bird almost universally considered “cute” thanks to its oversized round head, tiny body, and curiosity about everything, including humans. Quick to find the bird feeders we love to set out, the black-capped chickadee is one of the first birds many of us become familiar with. And scientists are finding out that these remarkable little creatures ain't just another bird brain!
BNSF helps Bonner County EMS with ASAP ambulance: The rugged terrain of northern Idaho can provide some challenges for first responders. With help from the Burlington Northern Sante Fe Railway Foundation, Bonner County EMS was recently able to purchase an ASAP all terrain off-road ambulance.
First known interstellar visitor drops by: A few weeks ago, EarthSky reported on a small object visiting from beyond our solar system. Now astronomers have scrutinized data from this object, which has been given the name "'Oumuamua," and which must have traveled through space for millions of years before its chance encounter with our star system.
November 20
Idahoans invited to state tree lighting ceremony: Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter and First Lady Lori Otter invite everyone to join them on the evening of Monday, November 27, for a celebration of the holiday season at the ceremonial lighting of Idaho’s Capitol Christmas Tree.
NewsBF proving itself an important news source: If you wonder about the effectiveness of News Bonners Ferry as a source of news, the North Hill manhunt of Sunday evening might hold some answers. Unlike traditional news media, such as radio, television and newspaper, most of which, incidentally, also have websites, NewsBF is geared to take advantage of the internet to get accurate breaking news out as a situation develops, in real time, allowing the reader to take action in time to make a difference. By editor Mike Weland
Blood center faces holiday donation drop: The Inland Northwest Blood Center is challenging its residents to help make up for a large decrease in blood donations expected during the holiday season, and there are two drives taking place in Bonners Ferry this week so residents here can take part.
Important dates for Medicare beneficiaries: The Idaho Department of Insurance would like to remind Medicare beneficiaries who are under the age of 65 that they are eligible to purchase a Medicare Supplement, also known as Medigap, policy with an effective date of January 1.
Be careful not to sit on your bunions: There is no more frightening threat you could make to a kid than “ You behave or you will have to massage your Grandma’s bunions!” My own stomach still flip-flops at the thought of it. Musings from Moyieboy, by Ken Carpenter
Bonners Ferry City Council minutes, September 5
Bonners Ferry Special City Council minutes, September 12
Bonners Ferry City Council minutes, September 19
Bonners Ferry City Council minutes, October 3
Bonners Ferry City Council minutes, October 17
November 19
Search underway on North Hill: Law enforcement personnel are continuing the search for a man believed to have a nation-wide no-bond felony warrant for his arrest after the individual bailed out of a vehicle sought by Idaho State Police at about 4 p.m. today on the North Hill and has so far evaded those searching the area around the Boundary County Landfill. The suspect has been apprehended.
November 18
It's beginning to look like the holidays are here! The one day of the year you can almost guarantee a traffic jam on the normally placid Moon Shadow Road is on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, when the congregation at the Kootenai Valley Mennonite Church put on their annual Holiday Craft and Bake Sale. And today, the Mennonite congregation weren't the only ones making it feel that the holidays have arrived in Boundary County! A NewsBF pictorial
Second semester of Classical Conversations to begin: Home schoolers interested in the classical approach to education might consider Classical Conversations as the second semester begins January 10. An informational meeting to share more about the programs with interested parents will be held on Friday, December 1.
BCMS has plenty to be thankful for: First let me say happy Thanksgiving to all of you out there. We appreciate and are thankful for the support we get from this community every day. We strive to help give back when we can and though we probably don’t say it enough, Thank You! By Principal David Miles II
Schweitzer opening earliest in 20 years: It's opening day at Schweitzer Mountain Resort, and they are off to a great start this season with the earliest opening they've had in 20 years! The mountain is in good shape with the recent snow fall and all the work our snow making and grooming crew has been doing.
November 17
Free 'Cyberbu//y' showing and forum slated: The Boundary County Human Rights Task Force is presenting a film and forum to address the serious issue of cyber-bullying at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, November 30, at the Becker Auditorium at Bonners Ferry High School.
November 16
Please send me your news! A lot of people tell me they're surprised and pleased to find news of their organization that I've picked up from a website or on Facebook, or found on a poster on a wall downtown. I will keep looking and sharing, but instead of waiting for me to find it, why not make sure I get it by sending it to me?
A lot to be thankful for at Mt. Hall Elementary: Greetings from up north! We have snow on the playground and the first progress reports have been sent home for the year. We made it halfway through the first trimester, and our students and staff have been working hard. By Principal Lisa Iverson
Bonners Ferry FFA members celebrate Ag Days: On Friday and Saturday, October 6 and 7, members of the Bonners Ferry FFA Chapter took a bus down to the University of Idaho in Moscow for Ag Days. The adventures and activities started the minute the bus parked on campus. By Katelyn Hutchinson
Locals to take part in 118th Audubon bird count: Local bird lovers will be getting together for an early breakfast on Thursday, December 28, and then scatter to all corners of the county to take part in the 118th annual Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count.
Extended holiday hours for Christmas tree permit sales: In order to accommodate members of the public who may wish to purchase a Christmas tree permit on the weekend, the Coeur d’Alene River Ranger District’s Fernan Office will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, December 2, and Saturday, December 9.
November 15
Expect yucky, slick roads Thursday morning: Get ready for a mixed bag of weather, as a system brings rain, freezing rain and mountain snow to Boundary and Bonner Counties in Idaho and Pend Oreille County, Washington, and rain, yuck and slop to points south tonight.
Meet the sawyer who cut the Capitol Christmas Tree: Meet the local sawyer who was selected earlier this month to cut the 2017 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, which is now on its way east to Washington, D.C. Kootenai Forest Supervisor Chris Savage selected Pete Tallmadge of Troy with the honor.
Idaho fraud victims can seek compensation: Idaho Attorney General Lawrence Wasden announced Tuesday that Idahoans who sent money to scammers through Western Union’s wire transfer service may be eligible for compensation from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Victim Asset Recovery Program.
November 14
Timber thieves have law on their trail: Boundary County law enforcement officers would like to send out a stern warning to those who are apparently visiting logging sites around Boundary County, finding unmanned log decks and helping themselves to the fruits of someone else's labor.
Calling all socks! You've heard of coat drives, maybe even hat or mitten drives, but Valley View Elementary is trying something new to ensure that those in need don't suffer cold tootsies this winter; they are holding their first ever Sock Drive! Donations of new socks only, preferably warm, toasty new socks, can be dropped in a drop box that will be in the entry of Valley View Elementary November 26 through December 9.
Court dispositions and sheriff's log
November 13
Mt. Hall students salute our veterans: Patriotism is still alive and well at Mr. Hall Grade School! On November 13, approximately 25 veterans were treated to a delightful and charming Veterans Day salute by the students of this school. Upon my arrival at Mt. Hall, I was greeted by Principal Lisa Iverson. She graciously asked if there was anything she could do or provide for me. By Mike Ashby
November 11
Unsettled weather predicted in the week ahead: According to the National Weather Service, a very active weather pattern will envelope the region beginning Monday and continue through the week with frequent periods of mostly valley rain and mountain snow.
Thank you for your service: At 11 a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month, 99 years after the guns of World War I fell silent, a crowd gathered in Veterans Memorial Park outside the library in Bonners Ferry and remembered the honor and the sacrifice of those among us who, at one time, took an oath "that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic." A NewsBF pictorial
Democrat House Party a fun success: More than 30 people from across the county, from Porthill to Naples, dropped in on the Democratic House Party for Puerto Rico at Debbie Flory's house on Tuesday, raising over $400 to be donated to World Central Kitchen.
Schweitzer kicking off season November 18: Thanks to consistent temperatures for snow making and some significant early natural snowfall, Schweitzer Mountain Resort is pleased to announce the start of the 2017/18 season on Saturday, November 18.
November 10
Family coping with sudden loss as holidays draw nigh: A young man died unexpectedly in Bonners Ferry Friday, leaving his wife and two children in mourning and facing costs they should not have to face at a time, with the holidays so close at hand, that they should be rejoicing. The reality of what's befallen them has yet to set in, but Bonnie's sister is asking all the family's friends to help with funeral costs and to help them put their lives back together. Updated with service notice
BCMS Leadership Class says thank you, veterans: The Boundary County Middle School Leadership Class extends a big thank you to the veterans who came and spoke to their advisory classes today, and to the students, who were very respectful and participated and wore red, white and blue!
November 9
Rural health in Boundary County: Across America, rural settings allow for a simpler way of life. However, when it comes to health care, rural health clinics are anything but simple. The Rural Health Services Act of 1977 has helped bring healthcare providers to rural areas, meeting the needs of families that would otherwise not have access to care. By Jeannie Harkness
Mark Fenton to speak of more active Bonners Ferry: The city of Bonners Ferry is pleased to bring Mark Fenton to our community Monday and Tuesday at the Kootenai River Inn to discuss public health trends and ways to combat childhood obesity in our community.  Space is limited and you need to register by 5 p.m. today.
The incredible shrinking bladder: Age can be a funny thing, if it doesn’t drive you nuts. Take the bladder, for instance. In my case, please, take it and replace it with a football or something. It has shrunk to the size of a toad’s eyeball. Such was not always the case. Musings from Moyieboy by Ken Carpenter
Moyie Springs City Council Minutes, October 4
November 8
Women in Agriculture Conference here soon: The 2017 Women in Agriculture Conference will offer women in Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Montana and Alaska a unique opportunity to gather in 40 different locations for a one-day event featuring knowledgeable speakers, inspiring stories, networking with other producers and practical advice for learning new skills.
'Electrofrogging' clears way for climate adaptation grant: An invasive frog in the wetlands of North Idaho is triggering climate related habitat work in Boundary County. In recent years, warm temperature loving American bullfrogs have been making their way north along the Kootenai River Valley toward the Boundary-Smith Creek Wildlife Management Area (BSCWMA) near the US-Canadian border.
Sloppy weather expected: The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for mixed precipitation, in effect from 10 p.m. today through noon Thursday. Total valley snow accumulations of up to two inches are expected.
November 7
Thompson to join Bonners Ferry City Council: Val Thompson garnered 154 votes to incumbent Ken Toline's 50 votes to take a two year seat on the Bonners Ferry City Council, and in Moyie Springs, Geoff Hollenbeck was the top vote getter with 37 and Stephen E. Economu garnered 29 votes to fill two vacancies on the Moyie Springs City Council.
Gearing up for the Festival of Hearts: The 2018 Fry Healthcare Foundation's Festival of Hearts takes place at 6 p.m. Saturday, February 10, at the Kootenai River Inn. The Festival of Hearts is the foundation's major fundraising event of the year to raise funds for Boundary Community Hospital.
Bestowing honor on Idahoans: Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter unveiled a new public service advertising campaign today seeking nominations for the highest civilian honor the State of Idaho bestows on its citizens.
Court dispositions and sheriff's log
November 6
Friends of the KNWR to hold annual meeting: The annual meeting of the Friends of the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge will be held in the refuge education barn at noon Tuesday, November 14, and they'd love to have your input!
RCC honors vets as Back Adit plays The Pearl: Looking for a way to honor and entertain your local heroes? Bring them to The Pearl this Veteran’s Day to see Back Adit! The show starts at 7 p.m. Saturday, November 11. Rawlings Community Counseling sponsors all veterans for this show, offsetting regular ticket prices for our community’s veterans.
Local Marines to celebrate 242nd birthday: They are the few, the proud. The U.S. Marines. A group, perhaps more than any other, that epitomizes loyalty, honor, service. A group that, once you join and serve, you are forevermore a part of. On Friday, November 10, the Corps celebrates its 242nd birthday, and all Boundary County Marines are invited and encouraged to attend this year's Marine Corps Ball, to be held at the Kootenai River Inn.
Flags half staff to honor victims of Texas shootings: We are deeply saddened by the shooting in Sutherland Springs, Texas, which took the lives of more than 25 innocent victims while they were attending church. As we mourn the victims of this unprovoked act of violence, we pray for healing and comfort for all the family members and loved ones who are grieving.
Idaho Family Reading Week just ahead: Idaho Family Reading Week starts next week, November 13-16, and Valley View Elementary has a full week of activities planned to get your family reading. Their theme of “Tell me a tale” will inspire children to write their own stories and read them to classes.
November 4
Winter weather advisory for snow continues: The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for continued snow, effective from 4 a.m. Sunday through 4 a.m. Monday in North Idaho and northeast Washington. An additional two to four inches of snow is expected to fall during that period in the lower elevations, with up to seven more inches falling in the mountains.
ISP offering winter driving class: The Idaho State Police will be holding a Road Safe Class for the 2017/2018 winter driving season from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, November 11, at the Idaho State Police District 1 Office, W615 Wilbur Avenue, Coeur d'Alene.
November 3
Collision on icy road claims Bonners Ferry woman: A Bonners Ferry woman died today in a two-vehicle collision with a semi in Bonner County caused by slick roads.
Care-N-Share Christmas season is here: Care-N-Share Christmas is on its 35th year of helping insure the children of our community have a wonderful Christmas! If you or someone you know will be needing help this Christmas, applications are now available.
Badger Band Notes:  letter, schedule and permission slip were sent home for Gathering of the Bands this week. Chaperones are needed, please contact Mrs. Hanna if you are available to travel with us on Wednesday, November 15, to North Idaho College in Coeur d’Alene. Excerpts from The BFHS Band November Newsletter
Christmas tree season on the IPNF: It is soon to be the most wonderful time of year to visit the Idaho Panhandle National Forests and find the perfect Christmas tree! Individual Christmas tree permits are $5 each and are available at the U.S. Forest Service supervisor or district offices.
Public comment sought for state insurance waiver: The Idaho Department of Insurance intends to apply to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and to the United States Department of the Treasury for a Section 1332 State Innovation waiver on or about January 5, 2018. Public comments will be accepted until December 15.
November 2
Winter driving conditions are here to stay: The Bonners Ferry Police Department wants to remind everyone on Inland Northwest roads, especially those here in Boundary County, that driving conditions are bad and getting worse! Temperatures are dropping below freezing in most areas and the snow and slush from the day's precipitation is freezing, with more heavy snow expected through tonight and into morning.
Winter conditions expected to make travel difficult: A winter storm warning remains in effect until 11 a.m., and as the system develops, the outlook continues to grow more grim for those who are traveling in North Idaho and northeastern Washington. Mountain snow and valley rain and snow will change to all snow by this evening. Heavy accumulations are expected north of Deer Park and Athol.
Local Democrats hosting party for Puerto Rico: he Boundary County Democrats will hold a House Party to Benefit Puerto Rico on Tuesday, November 7, at Debbie Flory’s place in Bonners Ferry. This is a community event and everyone is welcome to join and raise funds to support recovery efforts in Puerto Rico.
Grizzly gates to be opened for season soon: The Idaho Panhandle National Forests will be reopening several forest gates in grizzly bear management units in coming weeks. Gates should open, depending on weather conditions and available personnel, November 16 in the Selkirk Mountains and December 1 in the Purcell and Cabinet Mountains.
Budding pilots encouraged to apply: After another summer flipping huckleberry pancakes and enjoying great company, local Experimental Aircraft Association EAA Chapter 757 is seeking pilot training scholarship applications. The Chapter held monthly Pancake Breakfasts from May through September to raise funds for flight training scholarships.
Hire a Vet event set in Post Falls: The Idaho Department of Labor's Kootenai County office will host a Hire a Veteran event from 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday, November 8, at N600 Thornton Street, Post Falls.
Cruz backs Labrador's gubernatorial bid: U.S. Senator Ted Cruz announced Wednesday he is endorsing Raúl Labrador’s bid to become Idaho’s next governor. “I’ve worked closely with Raúl Labrador over the past few years to advance conservative policies for our country ..."
November 1
Winter storm warning issued for snow: The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for heavy snow, in effect from 5 a.m. Thursday to 11 a.m. Friday. Plan on difficult travel conditions, including during the evening commute on Thursday. Total snow accumulations of four to eight inches in the valleys, with mountain accumulations up to 17 inches, are expected.
Cleanup Week coming to Bonners Ferry: The Bonners Ferry City Street Department will pick up yard waste from the front curb side of residences and businesses during the week of November 6 through November 13.
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