Rhonna Jeanette Russell, a beloved wife, stepmother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Copeland, Idaho, on May 6, 2025. She was 65 years old. […]
Author: Mike Weland
Confirmation at the river’s edge
There is movement of the water, the decaying dead things, the fish that feed our obsession, the change of sediment, the deer that drinks not fifty yards from me with its feet dug deep into the muddy bottom of the Kootenai. And under the slow moving foam, in the uncleared and slightly brown waters, are trout waiting as patiently as I am.
School board meeting 6 p.m. May 19
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, THAT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE ABOVE-NAMED SCHOOL DISTRICT IS SCHEDULED FOR MONDAY, MAY 19, 2025 – 6 PM Boundary County […]
Compliance checks lead to multiple charges
On the evening of May 14, the Boundary County Sheriff’s Office, in close cooperation with Boundary County Probation and Parole and with support from the Bonners Ferry Police Department, conducted […]
Sheriff’s office inundated with crank calls
The Boundary County Sheriff’s Office is issuing an urgent public notice regarding the misuse of our non-emergency dispatch line. Over the past several days, our dispatch center has received approximately […]
M&O levy about more than funding programs
By former BCSD 101 teacher Darrell Kerby Over 40 years ago, I stepped out of the classroom and into the unpredictable world of local government and private business. But no […]
A year of Rotary FIRSTS
By Sandy Johnstone President, Rotary Club of Bonners Ferry The year of the Magic of Rotary has found our Bonners Ferry Club celebrating a season of FIRSTS! Our FIRST meeting […]
BCH gearing up for health fair
Boundary Community Hospital invites the community to lace up their sneakers and take charge of their health at the BCH Health Fair & Fun Run, happening from 9 a.m. to […]
Public schools should remain a priority — vote yes
The time is here to step up and support Boundary County’s youth and our public schools. It was not a good day when I received my RIF (reduction in force) […]
Coming home again
… what has mainly stayed the same as it was 30 years ago is nature. Our surroundings. Objectively the best part of this area; a wholly unique and beautiful part of the country at large. And the best part of that nature is in the waters.
Rotary helping bring May food truck
The Rotary Club of Bonners Ferry is helping sponsor the May 19 Second Harvest mobile food truck with a $500 dollar donation. The truck will again be at the Fairgrounds […]
Nazis and nonviolence
In 1939, Nazi officials established gas chambers and began murdering tens of thousands of German citizens they considered “unfit.” The victims of the so-called “T-4” program included elderly Germans and […]
Rebuttal to Herndon: We are not impressed
By Mike Weland America has a long and proud history, Mr. Herndon, of directly raising its middle finger at stupid laws passed by those idiots we on occasion mistakenly elect, […]
Bonners Ferry has joined Boise in defying state law
By Former Idaho Senator Scott Herndon I admit that I haven’t always paid attention to local government throughout my lifetime. But lately, I can’t help but notice an outbreak of […]
Team 2130 Alpha + congratulates Clinten Hopkins
Bonners Ferry High School Robotics Team 2130 Alpha + congratulate alumni Clinten Hopkins for his graduation this Saturday from Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York. He is graduating with […]
Thank you, city council, for doing the right thing
On Tuesday, the Bonners Ferry City Council in one small but profound gesture threw down the gauntlet against the stupidity that is the radical right’s anti-woke agenda, establishing a year-around celebration proudly proclaiming this city’s appreciation for our neighbors to the north and even more proudly hoisting the Canadian flag back to its place.
Naples woman gets break after assaulting ER staff
Working in health care has its rewards, but it’s fraught with drawbacks as well; seeing people in agony, seeing people die. Seeing people who don’t want to be in your […]
Commemorating amity, Canadian flag flies again over Bonners Ferry
By Mike Weland The third flagpole north of the Boundary County Museum once again bears a brand-new flag waving, a flag that’s flown for decades, and Bonners Ferry has a […]
Burn permits required as of May 10
Idaho residents outside city limits are required to obtain a burn permit for most outdoor burning activities starting May 10. The annual closed burning season runs through October 20, ensuring […]
Where is the flag?
Have you noticed? The Canadian flag no longer flies next to the American and Idaho flags near the visitor center in downtown Bonners Ferry, welcoming our friends from the North. […]
HB96 tells us Bonners Ferry can’t fly Canadian flag
By Mike Weland North Idaho legislators Mark Sauter in the House and Jim Woodward in the Senate saw this coming, sounded warnings in their respective chamber floors and voted against […]
Idaho man missing from friend’s home in Libby
An 86-year-old Nezperce, Idaho, man with severe dementia has been missing from a friend’s home in Libby since early this morning.
Tuesday’s Trouble wraps their season
By Michelle Sweet INDIVIDUAL Liz Cada (Spruce) achieved high scratch game with 183, high handicap game with 271, and high handicap series with 681. Pertineer the same as last week; […]
A week without fishing
As a working family man, I can’t always get out when I want to (especially when I run out of good excuses). However, there are still things I can do in the meantime to soften the blow of not having my feet in the river.
Final roadway repairs set for next week on US-95 near McArthur Lake
The Idaho Transportation Department will be performing final patch repairs on a section of US-95 near McArthur Lake on Tuesday. To minimize impacts on commuter traffic, work will take place […]
Why I voted Yes for the two-year BCSD levy
While my wife and I do not have children or grandchildren currently attending schools in our district, we recognize that the school district represents the heart of our community. It […]
When it comes to education, the Idaho legislature has one job, and they’re failing
By Mike Weland In an era where fake crises abound and attacks on such integral facets of our existence as schools and libraries are rampant, Boundary County has been pushed […]
BCSD 101 Public Notice
ABoundary County School District #101 is an equal opportunity employer. Applications for all positions are accepted any time during regular business hours. These applications are reviewed whenever an opening occurs […]
Flags to half-staff Sunday for fallen firefighters
The National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service will be held Sunday, May 4, to honor firefighters who died in the line of duty. In accordance to Public Law 107-51, the American […]
Why has Risch gone silent on NATO and Ukraine?
By Jim Jones, Idaho Capital Sun May 1, 2025 Although U.S. Sen. Jim Risch, R-Idaho, is one of those congressional lifers who does not have a particularly distinguished record on […]
William R. “Bill” Lefebvre
William R. “Bill” Lefebvre, 83, of Bonners Ferry, died April 24, 2025 at Sunset Home Assisted Living after a short hospitalization. A private burial ceremony was conducted April 28, and […]
Helping build a fence for Bronnie
Andrew Cunningham is a 100-percent disabled vet from his service during the First Gulf War, still needs a fence so he and his service dog, Bronnie, can go outside and […]
Restorium seeking craft supplies
The Restorium is looking for materials for resident activities, to include yarn of any color, clean socks with no holes, pipe cleaners of all colors. Any spare arts and craft […]
Bonners Ferry P&Z to hear day care, mill site rezone apps
The Bonners Ferry Planning and Zoning Commission will meet at 5:15 p.m. Thursday, May 15, to hold public hearings on special use permit applications for a new daycare in the […]
9B.News adopts new letter/comment guidelines
9B.News gratefully welcomes comments on articles and letters to the editor on any subject of topical interest subject to the following policies. 9B.News will no longer accept letters to the […]
Every vote counts: Vote yes for our schools
When I scroll through my Facebook page, the vast majority of my posts are about our students—the incredible activities they’re involved in, the memories they’re making, and the pride they […]
I can’t in good conscience blame Trump
I admit I’m only one of millions of people angry at President Trump’s lawlessness; preempting the other two main branches of government; defunding of vital services and research; mass firing […]
Nature is rolling out of its deep winter-y sleep
I spent many nights of my youth summers in the front of an aluminum canoe spinning the shores and vegetation of Perkins Lake while my father paddled in the rear […]
Live fire training day Saturday on Denver Street
A live fire training day will be held from 7 a.m. to at least 1 p.m. tomorrow in Bonners Ferry that will involve all seven fire departments in Boundary County. […]
Paulus Restorium Employee of the Month
On behalf of the Friends of the Restorium, the Restorium Residents Council recognized personal services assistant Linda Paulus as the March 2025 recipient of the Ray Olson Employee of the […]
A half century at Boundary County Community Restorium
By Mike Weland With a special thanks to Sue Kemmis for research at the Boundary County Museum In November 1974, Boundary County voters passed a bond issue by a vote […]
Is Sheriff Bob getting special treatment?
On February 22, at a “town hall” in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho (CDA), sponsored by the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee (KCRCC), a gang of five men, at the direction of […]
Sheryl Tolson
Sheryl Tolson passed away peacefully from cancer in Bonners Ferry on April 22, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Viewing will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. Friday, April […]
In response to Moon’s ‘Fighting the good fight’
By Mike Weland In her opening paragraph, Dorothy Moon is absolutely right. But in gaslighting, that’s how you reel in the gullible. It’s how you brainwash the susceptible. Consider the […]
Fighting the good fight
By Dorothy Moon IDGOP Chairwoman If it’s worth having, it’s worth defending. Our Founding Fathers understood that defending their liberty was worth even more than their lives, their fortunes, and […]
Let us hold to true conservative values
By former Mayor Darrell Kerby Bonners Ferry With the close of 2025 Idaho Legislature, let us again reflect on who we truly are and what it means to be an […]
I had a dream
I had a dream last night … maybe it was from the spicy pizza … who knows where dreams come from? Anyway, I seemed to hear voices from a long […]
Generic prescription users could be due compensation
Attorney General Raúl Labrador urges consumers to check their eligibility for compensation for certain generic drug purchases as Idaho has joined 50 states and territories in seeking preliminary approval for […]
Little prepares for “Freeing our Forests”
Governor Brad Little issued a new executive order today, the “Make Forests Healthy Again Act,” directing the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) to expand its partnership with the U.S. Forest […]
Tuesday’s Trouble sends eight to state
Tuesday’s Trouble women’s bowling league sent eight players to the Idaho State Championships. The event was held on three separate weekends and in two cities to accommodate all bowlers. The […]
Tuesday’s Trouble stats for week 31/32
By Michelle Sweet Individual Liz Cada (Spruce) achieved high scratch game with 176, 3third high scratch series with 471, high handicap game with 269, and high handicap series with 750. […]
Utah voucher law unconstitutional; Idaho’s law vulnerable
By Jim Jones JJ Commontater A district judge in Utah issued a marvelous decision on April 18, finding Utah’s school voucher law to be unconstitutional. The 60-page decision was based […]
Hope House, Senior Center get Innovia grants
Innovia Foundation’s Leadership Council for Bonner and Boundary Counties announced grant awards totaling $30,000 at the community celebration of the Live Give 7B campaign on April 18. The grants will […]
Police chief grateful for community’s love and support
By Willie Cowell on behalf of Amanda and the entire Cowell family February 5, 2025, is now a day in Cowell family history which moving forward will be remembered as […]
Flags to half staff in memory of Pope Francis
HONORING THE MEMORY OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION UPDATE: Flags return to full staff at sunset on Saturday, April […]
Isaiah makes strides through the weekend
To donate, click here UPDATE: 1:29 p.m. Monday, April 21 — It was an amazing weekend for Isaiah. His mom, Maygen says they are in a regular room and working […]
BCSD #101 and Foundations School believe in community and kids
On March 17, a significant step towards enhanced collaboration was taken as Boundary County School District #101 Superintendent Jan Bayer and Vice-Board Chair Teresa Rae visited Foundations School. The visit […]
SCAA seeks input on fostering
Second Chance Animal Adoption is working to improve their foster system by shaping to better fit needs of their animals and the community, and they’ve launched a survey to held […]
Bears … Oh my!
By Former Bonners Ferry Mayor Darrell Kerby The Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee may soon become obsolete. For 55 years, this group of bureaucrats has been utilized by federal agencies to […]
County residents stand up against Trump
By Mike Weland The “liberals” are marching. After 10 years of mostly lying low as the era of Donald Trump here in “Trump Country” grew ever more bizarre and inimical […]
Fair board hiring for season
As the season starts warming up, the Boundary County Fair Board is looking for a few good hands; three fairgrounds bartenders, two temporary maintenance and janitorial workers and one year-around, […]
Website launched to highlight historic places — stories needed
The Friends of Boundary County Historic Places has launched a new website to encourage everyone interested in helping to encourage the protection and proper use of the historical sites in […]
CAP Selkirk Composite Squadron hosting open house
By Wyatt Blackmore C/1st Lt, CAP The Selkirk Composite Squadron will host an open house for the community from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 22, in the Bonners Ferry […]
Meet the final four DYW participants
The Bonners Ferry Distinguished Young Women program receives its funds and support entirely through the donations of local community members and businesses. Without this support the program would not exist. […]
One for the kids: A Bonners Ferry Easter
By Mike Weland There’s a bit of magic underway in Bonners Ferry and while some of our neighbors know their roles in the mysterious dance now being orchestrated, there’s only […]
Viola Gedeon
Viola Gedeon, 97 of Bonners Ferry, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on April 16, 2025. Rosary will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday April 23, at St. […]
Paean to the panfish
Ah, the panfish. The fish type that is named after the fact that they never will quite outgrow a pan you plan to cook them in. A fast growing, short […]
IPNF prescribed burns are underway
Idaho Panhandle National Forests prescribed fire operations started today. We estimate this work to continue through the spring as weather conditions allow. We use prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown […]
County losing on recycling program
The Boundary County Board of Commissioners are announcing modifications to the county recycling program. This is due to increasing operational costs, decreasing participation, and the challenges of the global recycling […]
Robert Allen Copeland
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Bob Copeland. Robert Allen Copeland was born May 22, 1974, in Bonners Ferry, to Roy and Sandy Copeland. A […]
Commissioners and county residents cordially share information
By Clarice McKenney Boundary County Commissioners held a town hall meeting this evening that was refreshingly cordial on all sides as commissioners explained necessary changes in the recycling program, plans […]
A Boundary County icon remembered
By Mike Weland Spokesman Review columnist Jim Kershner remembered how a renowned rural prosecutor started his career in Boundary County 50 years ago in today’s edition of “This Day in […]
Commissioners town hall tonight
The Board of Boundary County Commissioners will host a town hall meeting at 6 p.m. tonight, Wednesday, April 16, in the Memorial Hall at the fairgrounds,6567 Recreation Park Road, Bonners […]
Meet four of this year’s DYW participants
In 1966, a group of young Boundary County high school students, girls all, 16 to 17 years old, most of them, embarked on a short but intense journey of self […]
Robert Lynn ‘Crazy Bob’ Chaney
1957 – 2025 After 67 years of a full-spirited, adventure-filled life, Robert Lynn Chaney — lovingly known as “Crazy Bob” — was called home on April 7, 2025. He leaves […]
Naples man dies in fiery collision
A Naples man died today and his juvenile passenger was LifeFlited to an area hospital following a fiery three-vehicle collision on Highway 95 near mile 495. According to the Idaho […]
State drivers licenses won’t be accepted by TSA starting May 7
On May 7, the Transportation Security Administration will no longer accept state-issued identifications that are not REAL ID compliant at security checkpoints. All airline passengers 18 years and older, including […]
Some suggestions for what Senator Crapo can do now for housing in Idaho
By Jim Jones JJ Commontater Senator Mike Crapo said in an April 8 op-ed that “access to affordable housing is one of the most pressing issues” he encounters across Idaho. […]
Meeting set to form Copeland Grange
A community informational meeting about starting a new Grange charter in Boundary County will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, April 18, at the Copeland Community Hall, 3208 Highway 1, […]
New era for local Rotary begins Tuesday
The new era of the Bonners Ferry Rotary Club begins noon Tuesday, April 15, at the Kootenai River Inn. Stage 2 of this amazing club … where the Magic of […]
Neither rain nor snow can slow 9B Cropswap
For the fifth year, the Worzala family has been hard at work since March adding more garden space around their home near the Bonners Ferry City Pool, not to stock […]
Talking the mop fly
Spring has sprung, and the snow is melting. Quickly. And with the melt, most of my favorite and very fish-able lakes (and Dawson) have melted off and the fishing is beginning to pick up.
Hearing set for Ibex roofing and siding plant
The Heritage Foundation and Ken Schrock, Caribou Creek Log Homes, are seeking approval to build a 35,000-square foot Ibex commercial and manufacturing plant on Highway 95 just north of Pro […]
Elroy Joseph ‘Roy’ Crum
Elroy Joseph “Roy” Crum, 69, passed away on Saturday, March 1, 2025, in Sandpoint. Graveside services witeh military honors will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 14, at the […]
Bonners Ferry P&Z hosting code open house
The City of Bonners Ferry is updating its zoning code and zoning map to reflect the goals and policies of its recently adopted comprehensive plan. The City invites public comment […]
The legislative session in summary
By District 1 Senator Jim Woodward The first regular session of the 68th Idaho Legislature adjourned on April 5. The session spanned 89 days, fairly typical in length, although fifteen […]
Bonners Ferry Marine touts military-friendly University of Montana
By Cary Shimek, UM News Service MISSOULA – A national organization recently named the University of Montana the No. 1 “Military Friendly” college in the United States. The ranking is […]
Transient killed by train early Monday
A 67-year-old transient was hit and killed by a train early Monday morning. The incident occurred at about 3 a.m. on the Union Pacific line in District 2. Robert Lynn […]
Idaho now has a powerful mini-legislature within its official Legislature
By Jim Jones JJ Commontater Idahoans can breathe a sigh of relief now that the Legislature has folded its tent and gone home. The bright side of this year’s session […]
Dora M. Brown
We are saddened to announce the passing of Dora M. Brown on April 5 at the Boundary County Extended Care facility. She was 86 years old. No services are planned […]
Gearing up for a patriotic Fourth of July
Parade planners Charli and Lucas Turner are already hard at work getting ready for the Bonners Ferry Fourth of July parade, and it’s time for the community to begin gearing […]
Boundary County Library now boasts seed library
In addition to books, periodicals, videos, magazines and all its other resources, the Boundary County Library is now hosting a Boundary County Seed Library offering county gardeners free seeds acclimate […]
9B.News opens ‘Run for the Roses’ fundraiser for DYW
By Mike Weland I am convinced there is no program more transformative available to young women than Distinguished Young Women, and that no community puts more into it or is […]
Collapsed lung puts family in financial peril
Despite having a tough time catching his breath and serious chest pain, Michael Carmean arrived for his shift as a cook at Three Mile Cafe on time Tuesday, April 1. […]
Besties Helene and Kim sign to colleges far apart
Helene Rae and her best friend Kim Lucas signed to their respective colleges last week. Helene Rae will be attending the College of Idaho in Caldwell as a track athlete […]
A treasure in our midst: Second Chance Animal Adoption
Second Chance Animal Adoption and Thrift, a shelter and a thrift store working in tandem, have been helping lost dogs and cats get home and homeless cats and dogs find […]
Highway 95 reopen after collision
1:20 p.m.: The roadway is clear and reopened. 12:34 p.m.: LifeFlite has lifted off. Traffic is now alternating around the crash site. 12:08 p.m.: LifeFlite is on scene. Noon: LifeFlite […]
Second Harvest coming April 17
The next 2nd Harvest Mobile Food Market of the season will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, April 17, at the Boundary County Fairgrounds. Cars should enter […]
‘Within the Silence’ coming to the Pearl
A free live performance of “Within the Silence” by Living Voices is being presented by the Boundary County Human Rights Task Force, co-sponsored by the Idaho Humanities Council, at 6:30 […]
Skunked on the Joe, part II
My reunion with one of my oldest, and dearest, friends began as one should: a few blue cans, a juicy tri-tip that had been in a smoker all day, and a bit of small talk.
Crafting futures: Local cabinetmaking students build more than furniture
By Woodshop teacher Francis Carlson In a time when hands-on skills are often overshadowed by screens and software, a group of high school students in Bonners Ferry is quietly reviving […]
Artis Albano Owsley
With deep sorrow, Travis, the son of Artis Albano Owsley, has shared the passing of his beloved mother. Artis, a cherished member of the Bonners Ferry High School graduating class […]
Walter ‘Walt’ Paul Kirby
Long-time local businessman and Boundary County Commissioner Walter Paul Kirby, 94, passed away early Saturday, March 29, at home with his family. Services may be held later this summer. He […]
Hurry up and wait
By Representative Steve Berch We’re entering the end-game portion of the legislative session. There are four games being played as we lurch toward the end (with a lot of negotiations […]
Do you believe in the constitution?
By Timothy Braatz The U.S. Constitution, written in 1787, is a brief instructional manual, sketching out a federal government, what it can and cannot do—a barebones blueprint—not much to “believe […]
Old Addie Road Water War ends with full five-year sentence
By Mike Weland After seven years, the Old Addie Road Water War, fought over a well shared by two neighbors, has ended and peace returns to the Good Grief as […]
Marciavee Cossette
March 12, 1934 — March 26, 2025 Marciavee Cossette, 91, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2025, at Sunset Home in Bonners Ferry. Marciavee was born on March 12, 1934, […]
Tami Jeppesen is BCH ‘Spark of the Month’
The administration and staff at Boundary Community Hospital ask that you help them congratulate their March Spark of the Month – Tami Jeppesen, Emergency Department Tech and EMT “In recognition […]
Donald Trump channels his kindred spirit, Dick the Butcher
By Jim Jones JJ Commontator There has been a bit of discussion over the years as to what William Shakespeare’s character, Dick the Butcher, meant when he said: “The first […]
Protecting our Idaho waters
By District 1 Senator Jim Woodward For decades, water has been on the mind of every farmer, rancher and landowner along the Snake River in southern Idaho. There is competition […]
Former governor Dirk Kempthorne fighting cancer
Former Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne, 73, has recently been diagnosed with colon cancer. This news is a profound shock to family, friends, and those who have worked closely with Kempthorne […]
Larry K. VanGundy
Larry K. VanGundy, 83, Bonners Ferry, died Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Boundary Community Hospital. He was born March 11, 1942 in Careywood, Idaho, the son of Steven Rex VanGundy […]
Sheriff’s office seeks info on scam caller
Over the weekend, Boundary County Sheriff’s Dispatch received calls regarding a scam. A male caller identifying himself as a county deputy was calling and telling people they missed jury duty. […]
Bob Lee Mastre
Bob Lee Mastre was born on April 15, 1933 to Gustaf and Alma Amoth Mastre in Walsh, Colorado, the seventh of 12 children. On March 13, 2025, Dad fell and […]
Ryan and Kel Becker facing condition never faced before
To give, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/RyanandKel By Mike Weland I don’t know if it’s common among young humans first trying to grasp the concept of numbers to set about counting to the […]
Walt Kirby passes
It is with sadness I report that former Boundary County Commissioner Walt Kirby passed away peacefully at home. “He’s had an awesome 94-year adventure with life,” his daughter, Marcia Kirby, […]
Protecting our Idaho waters
By District 1 Senator Jim Woodward For decades, water has been on the mind of every farmer, rancher and landowner along the Snake River in southern Idaho. There is competition […]
American honor and patriotism: A reflection on Vietnam Veterans Day
By Former Bonners Ferry mayor Darrell Kerby The Vietnam War left an indelible mark not only on those who fought but also on the fabric of American society. As we […]
Idaho Air National Guard deployed
The Idaho Air National Guard deployed more than 300 Airmen from the 124th Fighter Wing today to Southwest Asia in support of combat and peacekeeping operations within the U.S. Central […]
Floyd returned, to be sentenced Wednesday
After missing a few hearings and skipping state, Daniel Peter Floyd is back in the Boundary County Jail and a new sentencing hearing has been set for unlawful possession of […]
35 miles and a world away
The Town of Creston is committed to inclusivity and diversity for our citizens. We value one another and seek to foster genuine wellbeing and happiness for all.
P.E.O. college scholarships for female high school graduates
Bonners Ferry Chapter AP of P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) will be sponsoring multiple college scholarships for female graduates of Bonners Ferry High School again this year. Last year’s scholarships recipients […]
Skunked by the Joe
“… the river changes towards beauty. It remains the same in our eyes but the water that rolls past your ankles is somewhere far, far down the river within a minute. It makes one question the minutiae of everyday life away from the river, how we humans conduct ourselves whether face to face or through a phone screen. And it makes one wonder why we have lost our way as rivers ourselves.”
Michael “Mikey” Sean Joseph
Michael “Mikey” Sean Joseph, 56, of Bonners Ferry, passed from this life and went home to be with the Lord on Friday, March 21, 2025. Mike’s memorial service details will […]
House Bill 96: A threat to local control and community values
House Bill 96 represents a troubling shift in the Idaho Legislature’s priorities, one that undermines the very principles of local autonomy and community pride that have long defined our state. […]
A light dims, Marciavee Cossette dies at 91
By Mike Weland Not many know it, but there’s a street in Bonners Ferry named for a diminutive human dynamo whose smile and boundless energy brightened the community she adopted […]
Happy 100th birthday, Eileen!
Eileen (Madson) Hurd Kimber, Bonners Ferry High School Class of 1944, will celebrate a milestone, and friends and family are invited to join her for her 100th birthday celebration froml 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 29, at the Paradise Valley Grange Hall, 3661 Kootenai Trail Road, Bonners Ferry. Cake and a light lunch will be served.
Naples man dies of exposure in Montana
A 74-year old Naples man was found lying in the snow in a remote area on Southside Road near Star Creek in Montana about three miles east of the […]
Gray Building going on the auction block
A venerable downtown building once a hotel and now home to an eclectic shop of unique treasures and a tastefully appointed auxiliary real estate office, will be sold to the […]
Bonners Ferry Rotary embarking on a new era
Bonners Ferry once, and not all that long ago, had civic clubs and organizations for nearly every age group and interest: The Lion’s Club, Kiwanis, Jaycees and many more. But […]
Eagles stepping up to help Mikey
Bonners Ferry Eagles #3522, the biggest little Aerie in Idaho, will be selling raffle tickets for a 10.1-inch Android Baken professional tablet, with proceeds to benefit Mikey Bjoraker and the […]
Act would give combat-injured retirees full benefits
U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut) led reintroduction, along with Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), of S. 1032, the Major Richard Star […]
Vietnam War Veterans Day reminds us of what it means to serve
By Jim Jones JJ Commontater March 29 is Vietnam War Veterans Day, the day set aside to remember and honor those who served in that ill-fated war. A phone call […]
Highway 2 reopens after rock slide
8:06 p.m.: The slide is clear and Highway 2 is open. The west-bound lane of Highway 2 is closed at about mile 5.5 to 6 on Yaak Hill in Montana […]
Owen Benjamin afforded global honor
By Mike Weland For former Hollywood actor and comic Owen Benjamin, who now lives in Sandpoint, it’s the best of times, it’s the worst of times. His business endeavors have […]
North Idaho legislators seek exceptions to abortion ban
by Mia Maldonado, Idaho Capital Sun Sen. Jim Woodward, R-Sagle, introduced the bill to the Senate State Affairs Committee to allow doctors to provide an abortion “to prevent a serious […]
Fear and Loathing at the IF4
On Saturday, March 1, The Historic Pearl Theater in downtown Bonners Ferry put on a showing of the IF4, or International Fly Fishing Film Festival, which I attended with some […]
Avalanche watch in effect
The Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center has issued a backcountry avalanche watch in effect from 6 a.m. Friday through 6 a.m. Saturday for Boundary, Bonner and Shoshone Counties. A warm, wet […]
Franz named District 1 rep on ITD board
Governor Brad Little announced his appointment of Paul Franz Wednesday to serve as the District 1 representative on the Idaho Transportation Board. Franz is a professional engineer and recently retired […]
Every service member’s tale is different
In response to Jim Jones’s “Washington is targeting veteran programs” Agent Orange: I was raised in production agriculture environs from an early age. So, my exposures during my own military […]
Idaho Sheriff’s Association memberships are legit
By Sheriff Travis Stolley Mailers have gone out recently to residents in the State of Idaho from the Idaho Sheriffs’ Association on behalf of your County Sheriff. If you have […]
Help the Cowell family expand their home
Our community has always been one to step up when it matters most, and right now, Willy and Amanda Cowell, who have both dedicated their lives to serving others, need […]
Idaho completes review of voter rolls
The State of Idaho continues to take decisive action to ensure the accuracy and integrity of its voter rolls. County elections offices throughout the state have completed their biennial review […]
Where’s the OFF switch
By Representative Steve Berch March 21 was the target date for the end of the 2025 legislative session, yet new bills are still being introduced in committees. As you can […]
Nate Ady March Restorium Employee of the Month
Nate Ady is the recipient of the February Friends of the Boundary Community Restorium Ray Olson Employee of the Month “We Care” Award. A Personal Services Assistant 2/Med Tech, Nate […]
Theodore Ben Unruh
Theodore Ben Unruh was born to Chester and Nettie Mae Giesbrecht Unruh in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, on February 23, 1961. He passed away on March 14, 2025, at St. Luke’s […]
Special edition Casting Conversation: Trash leaves trash
There you are, watching your size 14 CDC caddis dead float perfectly with the foam in the current over what you know is at least a 12” west slope cutthroat. […]
Washington is targeting veteran programs
By Jim Jones JJ Commontater Veteran programs are in the sights of Russell Vought, who currently controls America’s purse strings. The US Constitution gave Congress that crucial responsibility, but our […]
Athol man dies in collision near Samuels
The Idaho State Police are investigating a two-vehicle crash that occurred just before 9:59 a.m. today on US95 near mile post 487, just north of Samuels. A 48-year-old male, and […]
1:26 p.m.: Highway 95 & Samuels Road north of Sandpoint is now open following a fatal collision.
1:26 p.m.: Highway 95 & Samuels Road north of Sandpoint is now open following a fatal collision. Avoid Hwy 95 & Samuels RD north of Sandpoint due to an accident. […]
Dr. Becker, Mikkel humbly ask help
Both Dr. Marty Becker and his daughter, Mikkel, are far better at giving help rather than asking, but sometimes you have to humble yourself and ask for help … especially […]
Ash Street man comes out of the closet
By Mike Weland When their knocks and announcements went unanswered, Boundary County Sheriff’s deputies forced entry into a home at 7152 Ash Street about 8:02 a.m. Monday to execute a […]
Daniel Floyd captured
By Mike Weland After nearly three weeks on the lam after a no-bond warrant was issued February 21 when he failed to appear for sentencing, the U.S. Marshal’s Service notified […]
KV shooters show their skills in Spokane
By Kathy Konek Junior rifle shooters from the Sandpoint and Kootenai Valley (KV) clubs participated in the Washington State Junior Smallbore Indoor Championships on Saturday, March 8. They travelled to […]
Idaho lawmakers are turning their backs on Trump’s agenda
By Richard Strickland Meridian, Idaho Idaho has long been a beacon of conservative values, championing free enterprise and keeping government interference at bay. Yet, our Republican lawmakers who claim to […]
Town hall violence and a (hypothetical) nonviolent response
by Timothy Braatz At a time when political violence is celebrated, well-meaning citizens must be prepared to respond with nonviolence. One definition of fascism is, simply, the overt desire to […]
Tuesday’s Trouble ladies bowling
Tuesday’s Trouble stats for week 24/32 INDIVIDUAL Shawna Anderson Got High scratch game198, High scratch series 449, High handicap game 271, High handicap series 668. Donna Lunsford got Second High […]
Join Bonners Ferry Mom Walk 2025!
Attention, moms of Bonners Ferry! It’s time to lace up your walking shoes and get ready for some fresh air, fun, and friendship! The Bonners Ferry Mom Walk kicks off […]
Boundary County Farm Bureau awaiting spring’s first baby
The Boundary County Farm Bureau Federation is looking for the first Boundary County baby born on or after March 20, the first day of spring! We will celebrate with a […]
Boundary Community Hospital seeking a few good people
Boundary Community Hospital is excited to invite job seekers to a Facilities & Nutrition Services Job Fair from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday, March 20, at the Fry Education House, […]
Asher first among equals — Idaho 4A MVP
The most valuable player of the 2025 Idaho 4A State basketball tournament averaged 28.3 points per game, three rebounds per game. He made 1.3 assists per game two steals per […]
Donald Boyd Lindsay
Donald Boyd Lindsay, age 95, passed away of natural causes February 27, 2025, at Sunset Home Assisted Living in Bonners Ferry. A pie eating social will be held Come join […]
Second Harvest food truck Coming
Second Harvest Inland Empire Northwest will bring their mobile food truck to Bonners Ferry to distribute free food from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, March 20. This will be […]
Smiles for smells — making lasting Badger memories
Stolen by Mike Weland Momentous occasions so profoundly change the lives of those who experience them that grasping the idea that you’ve evolved to a different plane, a higher level, […]
It’s not called catching
It was an unseasonably warm day in late February for Boundary County. Not two days earlier, we had a decent covering of snow (enough that my son was still begging […]
David John Winn
David John Winn passed away at home in Moyie Springs on March 8, 2025, from pulmonary fibrosis, surrounded by family. Dave was born September 2, 1946, in Libby, Montana, the […]
An open letter to the Idaho State champions
Dear Bonners Ferry High School varsity basketball team … Congratulations on achieving a monumental milestone by winning the Idaho State Basketball Championship for the second consecutive year! This accomplishment is […]
Mill pond full, legislators chopping as spring break-up nears
Senate Education Committee By Senator Jim Woodward Idaho District 1 With nine weeks behind us in the legislative session, our bill writing practices make us appear like lumber jacks cutting […]
Windy Sunday night for NW Montana
The National Weather Services, Missoula, has issued a wind advisory for the Kootenai/Cabinet and Flathead/Mission Valley regions of northwest Montana, in effect from 9 p.m. Sunday to 9 a.m. Monday. […]
A true helpful hardware man, county loses a national icon
By Mike Weland The United States and Boundary County both lost a bit of Americana Thursday. A real hardware man who ran a real hardware store … not with low […]
Old Addie bomb-maker still on the lam
By Mike Weland A no-bond warrant remains in effect and an Old Addie Road family’s seven-year nightmare continues unabated after Daniel P. Floyd missed a motion to quash hearing this […]
Michael Lee Peterson
Michael Lee Peterson died peacefully at home January 26, 2025, in Bonners Ferry, with his wife at his side. Michael was born on October 16, 1946, in Gardenia, California, the […]
Illegal burning creates hazard at county boat launch
Boundary County maintenance workers have been cleaning up the remains of burn piles found at the public boat launch at the Deep Creek confluence with the Kootenai River. The piles […]
Constantin Nick Ciocazan
Constantin Nick Ciocazan, 85, passed away peacefully at home on March 4, 2025 with his family at his side. Nick was born December 9, 1939, in Bucharest, Romania. He is […]
We the People need to exert our power
By Jim Jones JJ Commontater The preamble of the US Constitution starts with these powerful words: “We the People of the United States.” Those words mean that all power arises […]
ISP accepting applications for July training academy
The Idaho State Police (ISP) is actively seeking dedicated individuals to join its ranks as commissioned troopers. Applications are now open for the next ISP training academy, which begins in […]
Notes from Boise
By Senator Jim Woodward Idaho District 1 I hope you are all enjoying some of that wonderful North Idaho spring sunshine. It’s exactly what I needed on my quick week-end […]
ISP seeks info on Hayden crash
The Idaho State Police is requesting those that witnessed or have dashcam footage of the multi vehicle crash that occurred at about 3:40 p.m. Thursday on US95 at Boekel Road […]
Local highway restrictions going into effect as early as tomorrow
Sections of some state highways in Boundary County will find themselves under weight and speed restrictions starting at 6 a.m. tomorrow as regional weather trends begin to warm ahead of […]
Little signs HB93 into law
Governor Brad Little commented today on his signature of House Bill 93 creating the Parental Choice Tax Credit program. “With the passage of the $50 million Parental Choice Tax Credit […]
Thomas Bateman breaks 1,000 high school hoops points
Badger basketball coach Nathan Williams sends congratulations to senior Thomas Bateman for achieving 1,009 points in his high school career, and state play lies ahead. Thomas put up 132 points […]
BCH Auxiliary once again offering best pies in the world
The Boundary Community Hospital Auxiliary is pleased to announce its Annual Pie Sale, one of the Auxiliary’s largest fundraisers of the year. The event will take place at 9 a.m. […]
Governor, please veto HB 93
Governor Little, I’m begging you to VETO House Bill-93. I know of countless souls who will be depending on these benefits as the last resort to stave off bankruptcy. It […]
Beta Sigma Phi welcomes six
On Monday, February 24, a Preferential Tea was held to induct six enthusiastic new members into Bonners Ferry Beta Sigma Phi chapters, Teresa Rae, Jan Bayer, Cheryl Russell, Karee Wilson […]
North Idaho superintendents demand governor veto HIB93
Originally posted on IdahoEdNews.org North Idaho takes pride in our public schools, our communities, and our ability to make decisions that reflect Idaho’s values—not the interests of out-of-state billionaires looking […]
The onslaught
By Rep. Steve Berch Over 120 new pieces of legislation have been introduced in the last 10 days, many of them after the “official” February 10 deadline for introducing new […]
Bonners Ferry High School honor roll
Bonners Ferry High School administration would like to congratulate the Honor Roll recipients for the first semester of the 2024/2025 school year. A huge congratulations to all of these students […]
County seeking Waterway Board members
Boundary County is seeking letters of interest from qualified individuals interested in volunteering as a Boundary County Waterways Board member. This Board is advisory to the Boundary County Board of […]
Need a better bill than proposed HB138
By Representative Mark Sauter Idaho District 1A House Bill 138, a bill to direct how Medicaid Expansion would be handled over the next two years, was heard in the House […]
Getting busy in Boise
Tomorrow’s Senators By Senator Jim Woodward Idaho District 1 The pace of the legislative session has definitely picked up. The more controversial bills are making their way out of committees […]
Hearing to quash Floyd no-bond warrant set
By Mike Weland After he missed Friday morning’s sentencing hearing, Daniel Floyd provided his attorney a letter from a Coeur d’Alene orthopedic surgeon allegedly verifying that he’d undergone a medical […]
Flood, avalanche watches for the weekend
The National Weather Service, Spokane, has issued a flood watch for North Idaho and eastern Washington from 10 p.m. today to 4 a.m. Tuesday, and the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center […]
County students shine at U of I
A total of 3,326 students qualified for the University of Idaho’s Dean’s List for the Fall 2024 semester, which ended December 13. There were a whopping 22 of those honored […]
Floyd fails to appear for pipe bomb sentencing
Judge Susie Jensen ended a minutes long sentencing hearing this morning by issuing no-bond warrant for Daniel Floyd, who did not appear. Floyd pled guilty to unlawful possession of destructive […]
Governor seeks public guidance on HB 93 — lines are open
If you call Idaho Governor Brad Little’s main phone line today, (208) 334-2100, the automated message has been updated. Instead of just asking you if you want to leave a […]
Governor Little should veto House Bill 93
By Layne McInelly President, Idahgo Education Association Governor Brad Little should veto House Bill 93. As the dozens of principled and conscientious lawmakers who voted against this legislation pointed out, […]
Private education tax credit bill heads to Idaho governor
by Ryan Suppe, Idaho Capital Sun This story was originally published by Idaho Education News on Feb. 19, 2025. The Idaho Senate on Wednesday narrowly approved a plan to spend […]
Little League season gearing up
Boundary County Little League Registrations for the 2025 season are open through March 1, and players are encouraged to attend a baseball skills assessment Saturday at the Bonners Ferry High […]
Neveah Therrien takes third district title
Badger junior Neveah Therrien became a three-time district wrestling champion as she punched her ticket to the Idaho State Championships in Pocatello next week with a quick pin in the […]
A View From the Hill: Wisdom from the past
By Georgia Earley The following was written by Alexander Hamilton in 1792: “The truth unquestionably is, that the only path to a subversion of the republican system of the Country […]