
Budget writers OK emergency rental assistance
Children’s groups have been asking for the funding since early in the session
The Idaho Legislature’s Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee signed off on a $32 million supplemental funding request for emergency rental assistance on Friday after children’s advocacy groups spent weeks advocating for the funding.
BGH shutters labor, delivery services
Nearest obstetrical services will be in Cd'A, Spokane
Soon, women about to give birth in Bonner County will need to drive to Coeur d'Alene or Spokane to have their baby. Friday, Bonner General Health announced the hospital would no longer be offering labor and delivery service at the 25-bed hospital. While it will attempt to provide service through May 19, that will depend on staffing.

Deputy rescues elderly woman from river
An elderly woman was rescued from the Pend Oreille River after her vehicle ended up in the water near the Oldtown boat launch early Saturday morning.

WBCSD superintendent submits resignation
Former PL Elementary principal named interim superintendent
West Bonner County School District has named a former Priest Lake Elementary principal as interim superintendent after the sudden resignation of Jackie Branum.

A year later, David is 'a walking miracle'
Was critically injured by driver who ran red light
A year after an accident almost claimed his life, his family can't help but be thankful for David Rachels, now 20, is doing. A year on from the March 16, 2022, accident which left him critically injured, David Rachels has pretty much recovered. He is driving, hanging out with friends, playing games on the computer, and has a new job at Kodiak. Thanks to his helmet, he suffered no long-term cognitive effects from the accident despite experiencing a stroke days after the crash, his mother Jessica Rachels told the Daily Bee.
Idaho robbery suspect killed in Montana after hostage shot
Two suspects involved in the Saturday morning robbery in Osburn were seen by witnesses later that day in St. Regis
BGH obstetrics closure is heartbreaking to see
Like most breaking news in Bonner County, I first heard about the closure of the obstetrics service at Bonner General Health through the “Sandpoint grapevine." News spreads fast in a small town. Especially when you are an obstetrician who lives in that small town.

Complaint claims commissioner conflict
A Bonner County resident has filed a complaint against Bonner County Commissioner Steve Bradshaw with the Idaho Attorney General’s office, alleging a conflict of interest over the commission's hiring of an outside law firm. In the complaint, Dave Bowman said Bradshaw's acceptance of donations from Davillier Law Group partners for his failed gubernatorial campaign created a conflict of interest regarding any decisions involving the law firm.
NIC responds to community questions
As the deadline to respond to its accreditor approaches, North Idaho College leaders fielded questions from the community on Thursday. Around 100 people filled the Lake Coeur d’Alene Room in the Student Union Building on campus for a community focus group organized by Kootenai County’s four chambers of commerce.

Transgender bathroom bill advances in Boise
Coeur d'Alene situation points to possible need for legislation
The Idaho Senate on March 9 passed Senate Bill 1100 in a 28-7 vote. The proposed bill passed out of the House Education Committee on Wednesday morning to soon be heard on the House floor. The bill establishes additional provisions requiring separate school restrooms, changing facilities, sleeping accommodations and use of dressing and locker rooms based on students' sexes assigned at birth. Schools will also need to provide additional accommodations for students who are unwilling or unable to use facilities designed for their biological sexes.
Special Olympics enjoys trip to Schweitzer
Bonners Ferry Special Olympics athletes recently enjoyed a trip to Schweitzer for a great day of tubing and have been out practicing snowshoeing.
Athlete of the Week: March 12-18
Riley Petesch, junior, is named Athlete of the Week for Badger boys basket

Policy bills target outlet dam, budgets
District 1 legislators discuss local issues, legislations, and concerns in the weekly Notes From Boise column.

‘Pioneering a new generation’
NIC Basic Detention Academy graduates first class of students
North Idaho College held a graduation ceremony for its first Basic Detention Academy class Friday, March 10 in the Edminster Student Union Building at NIC. Five recruits completed the nine-week program and all will continue working for local law enforcement agencies. Four graduates will work with Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office and one with Bonner County Sheriff’s Office.
Parks and Rec seeks volunteers, Walking Club returns
Boundary County Parks and Recreation’s Future Badger Basketball program still needs volunteer scorekeepers and referees.

Season Opener: Badger baseball 1-1
Badger baseball traveled south March 10-11 to face the Orofino Maniacs and the Weiser Wolverines.

Battle of the Books Back at it
Valley View Elementary hosted its second Battle of the Books event Feb. 9 with elementary and junior high students competing in a trivia-style quiz bowl.

M&O levy passes by 55%
The Boundary County School District’s supplementary levy, was approved by voters Tuesday earning the simple majority requirement.

15 Badgers named North Idaho awards finalists
Athletes, teams and coaches from 33 high schools and three colleges in North Idaho have been selected as finalists for the 60th annual North Idaho Athletic Hall of Fame awards, with 15 Bonners Ferry Badgers in the running.

Blackmore to represent Badgers at All-Star game
Bonners Ferry High School senior Braeden Blackmore will compete at the Idaho State High School All-Star basketball games. Blackmore is the sole senior representing Bonners Ferry at the All-Star games.