Latest articles - Newport Miner

Thunderstorm turns out the lights

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:33 -0700

NEWPORT — The Pend Oreille River Valley endured a severe thunderstorm last Thursday evening, May 28, leaving thousands of residents in Washington and Idaho without power. The storm brought numerous lightning strikes and heavy rain, with wind gusts reaching up to 70 miles per hour in some places, according to the National Weather Service.

In the aftermath, approximately 17,000 customers were without power in the Inland Northwest, according to Northern Lights and Avista officials. According to the Pend Oreille Public Utility District, approximately 1,200 customers were without power, with around 15–20 customers without power for more than 24 hours.

“All available crews are currently working to restore service as quickly and safely as possible,” said Joe Hathaway, PUD public information officer, in an email sent to media on May 29. “The primary issue affecting restoration is a downed transmission line in the Blueslide area. That line must be repaired before power can be fully restored to several other affected areas. As a result, many outages in parts of the county are expected to continue throughout the day.”

Northern Lights continued to work towards restoring power around Priest Lake and Bonners Ferry, with over 3,300 remaining without power Saturday morning, May 30.

A fallen tree is held precariously by some power lines near Priest Lake last Friday morning, May 29. COURTESY PHOTO|SCOTT ROBERTS

Teacher arrested for sexual contact with teenagers

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:32 -0700

NEWPORT – A 35-year-old female teacher was arrested Tuesday, June 2, for Incest 1st degree and Incest 2nd degree. Amber N. Swain, of Newport, was booked into the Pend Oreille County Jail.

According to the Pend Oreille County Sheriff’s Office, the Department of Children and Youth Families contacted the sheriff’s department May 18, regarding allegations that Swain had sexual contact with two teenaged males.

Forensic interviews were conducted with the victims, according to a press release from the sheriff’s office.

Detectives were able to interview Swain June 2, and based on the investigation, determined there was probable cause to believe the incidents occurred. Swain was taken into custody and confined in the Pend Oreille County jail.

Swain is the director and teacher at Pend Oreille River School, Newport School District’s alternative high school. Because she is a local teacher, her employer was contacted. The school is cooperating with the investigation, the press release stated.

“This is an ongoing investigation, and no further details will be released at this time,” the press release stated.

City insurer awarding all stolen funds

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:31 -0700

NEWPORT — The City of Newport is receiving all the funds that were stolen in a cybercrime earlier this year.

City officials discovered in February that $336,588 in funds was stolen in what they described as a sophisticated online scam.

Mayor Keith Campbell announced at a Newport City Council meeting in April that the city’s insurer, the Association of Washington Cities’ Risk Management Service Agency, would cover at least $252,441. In a final update about the cybercrime, Campbell said at the council’s Monday, June 1 meeting that RMSA was also covering the remaining $84,147.

“Through quite a bit of paperwork and other ways of verifying trainings and so forth, we were able to fulfill our obligation there,” Campbell said at the meeting.

The Liberty Lake Police Department was conducting investigations into the crime, staff and city policies and procedures. LLPD officials informed the city early on that after staff transferred the funds to a fraudulent account, the funds disappeared. There have been no further updates from LLPD or other law enforcement since, Campbell said Tuesday, June 2. He declined to comment on the staff involved in the case.

The city is currently working on new policies regarding cybersecurity, Campbell said.

“The city’s elated that we’re able to be made whole again, that none of the taxpayer money was lost in the long run,” Campbell said.

At the same meeting, city administrator Abby Gribi informed the council that city crews were undergoing preparation work for this summer’s road maintenance project, which involves sweeping roads and checking city supplies.

TIB representatives are soon to meet with the city to discuss the project, as well as ways to address the severely damaged Seventh Street. Additionally, the city is hosting a public hearing about the Transportation Improvement Plan Monday, July 6.

“They’re going to start blasting the clean chip here, I think this week,” Gribi said at the meeting. “And so, we’ll start getting that as well.”

Later in the meeting, the council unanimously approved two funding agreements.

The first was with TIB for $266,000 in grant funding toward the road maintenance project, matched by $14,000 in local funds.

The second was with the state Public Works Board for $30,000 in grant funding toward riverbank stabilization engineering and design, matched by a five-year $30,000 loan with a 0.53% interest rate. This agreement is part of phase one of the wastewater treatment plant improvement project, Gribi said, adding that the riverbank was “very much” being eroded.

“It’s more than just the bank stabilization,” Gribi said. “It is getting it to a point where we can have driving access around that third clarifier.”

Council member Nathan Weathers expressed concerns regarding the cost. The city has yet to fully repay two loans: a Washington State Department of Ecology loan and a U.S. Department of Agriculture bond, both of which funded improvements to the wastewater treatment plant.

“We know it’s going to be a long-term thing,” council member Nathan Longly said. “We can get rid of it, understanding that we have lots of infrastructure that needs updated and fixed.”

In other business, the council updated the city accounting clerk job description to include a salary range, $4,946–$5,587.

Newly hired city clerk-treasurer Theresa Schoener was formerly the accounting clerk, leaving an opening.

The Greater Newport Area Chamber of Commerce president updated the council on a recent member survey and upcoming folder program for tourists and new residents.

Audience member Bill Prater returned to discuss the lack of Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant parking spots in Newport. He pointed out that the city was not ADA-compliant, hindering disabled residents like him from accessing key locations downtown.

“We are looking at where we can put them and how we can do it and the cost,” Campbell said. The city is requesting a workshop with the state Department of Transportation within the next three or four council meetings.

Longtime local theatrician directing first play

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:30 -0700

NEWPORT - Through all her years in local theatre as a stage manager, prop and set designer, front-ofhouse runner and even actress, Lauretta Heaney knew she wanted to be a director. “After putting everybody else’s vision on the stage and making it work, I wanted to see if I could develop my own vision of a production,” said Heaney, 61. “And make it actually work well and be entertaining.”

Now, she has finally gotten the chance to try. Heaney is directing an adaptation of the play “The Savannah Sipping Society,” traveling theatre troupe Out of the Box Entertainment’s 2026 spring comedy. She is also the prop and set designer.

Created by playwrights Jamie Wooten, Jessie Jones and Nicholas Hope, “The Savannah Sipping Society” follows four Southern women who bond over weekly happy hours after facing personal challenges. Across hilarious misadventures, the women support each other in finding new confidence and purpose, discovering that it is never too late for friendship or fresh starts.

Fans of “The Golden Girls” will appreciate the humor in “The Savannah Sipping Society,” Heaney said, as Wooten was a writer and producer for much of the sitcom television series.

“They write for older women,” Heaney said. “Some of the jokes are a little cheesy, but some of them are genuinely funny.”

Opening night of “The Savannah Sipping Society” was Friday, May 29 at the American Legion Calispel Post 217, followed by two weekend shows at The Cutter Theatre. The play closes out with two more shows this weekend, at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 6 and 3 p.m. Sunday, June 7 in the Create Arts Center.

Heaney

“I’m hoping the audience laughs a lot,” Heaney said. “We all need a laugh.”

Now a retired registered nurse, Heaney got involved in theatre while attending nursing school in her early 20s, when her girlfriend dragged her into doing backstage help for a Toronto theatre group. She ended up joining the group herself, serving as a backstage and stage manager for two years, then going on to work with The Peninsula Players of Vancouver Island after graduation.

Then, Heaney’s son was born, forcing Heaney to set aside theatre in favor of her nursing career and her children.

“That went down the tubes,” Heaney said, laughing. “You can’t breastfeed and stage-manage — it doesn’t work.”

Yet, Heaney’s children were the ones who made her come back. When they started with the Pend Oreille Players Association, Heaney took on the role of “backstage mom,” helping with props, sets, backstage management and front-of-house operations. For five years, Heaney contributed to every production held at the Pend Oreille Playhouse, almost directing her first production there.

“If something was going on in the building, I was there because I had the time,” Heaney said.

Instead, a disagreement with the association board led Heaney down to the Spokane Civic Theatre, where she returned to stage management. Elsewhere in Spokane, Heaney worked with Stage Left Theater as a stage director and prop designer. She has been involved with Out of the Box Entertainment for about two years, even accepting an acting role in “Trouble at the Tropicabana.”

Between Newport and Spokane, Heaney has collaborated with many directors she admires, including Troy Nickerson and Gary John La Rosa. She credits Donna Maki, a longtime friend who has directed several productions in Newport, for teaching her much about the craft. Maki is the assistant direcetor, costume designer, producer, publicity manager and sole dollmaker for “The Savannah Sipping Society.”

“I’ve worked with a lot of directors and seen some of what works and some of what doesn’t,” Heaney said. “You get ideas from a lot of places.”

Taking inspiration from Nickerson, Heaney said she directs like an editor, allowing actresses Elizabeth Miller, Yvonne Clark, Shannon Holifield and Jen Lindsey to act out a scene before adjusting some of their creative choices.

They rehearsed in the Newport branch of Farmers Insurance, whose building is owned by Clark, for five weeks leading up to technical week.

Commonly adapted by community theatres, “The Savannah Sipping Society” unfolds on a single set with a cast of four. The play’s story flows no matter how experienced the actors are, Heaney said, another boon for the non-professional cast of Out of the Box Entertainment’s adaptation.

“Non-professional actors, they’re not really thinking about, where am I facing, what am I doing, that sort of thing,” Heaney said. “And so, you get to boss them around.”

Despite limitations regarding volunteers, venue space, rehearsal time and funding for equipment, Heaney said the cast and crew of her first production as director have been wonderful to work with.

Filling out the five-person production crew are Heaney’s partner Josh MacCraw on sound, Audrey Reichert on lights and Deana Hayes as grip.

“I had a really, really good time and I want to do it again,” Heaney said of directing. “And I just hope people come.”

Tickets for this weekend’s shows are available online at our.show/create for $12 and at the door for $15. For more information about “The Savannah Sipping Society,” contact Maki at 509-671-1442.

Herndon files complaint against state’s top election official

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:29 -0700

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was first published in the Idaho Capital Sun on Tuesday, June 2.

An Idaho state senate candidate has filed a complaint against the campaign of the state’s chief election official for mailers sent ahead of the May primary that endorsed his opponent.

North Idaho candidate and former senator Scott Herndon filed the complaint, which centers on mailers featuring Idaho Secretary of State Phil Mc-Grane and an endorsement for Herndon’s primary opponent, incumbent Sen. Jim Woodward. Herndon defeated Woodward in the race.

Because the issue involves McGrane, whose office oversees statewide, legislative and judicial elections, the complaint has been referred to the Idaho Attorney General. McGrane told the Sun this plan had been in place well ahead of the election in case there was a complaint about his own campaign.

A spokesperson for Attorney General Raúl Labrador said the office couldn’t comment further other than to confirm there was an active investigation.

McGrane told the Sun that the mailing was limited to very active voters and the portions of the mailing dedicated to endorsements were reported as in-kind donations in his May campaign finance report, which will be available Wednesday, June 10.

What caused the complaint?

On May 20, one day after the primary election, Herndon emailed the Secretary of State’s Office and Labrador to file a complaint over mailers that featured McGrane as well as endorsements for Woodward and another North Idaho incumbent legislative candidate Rep. Mark Sauter.

“I called around to several people throughout my district,” Herndon said in an interview.

“There were multiple precincts that received that mailer, and I could never get them for that cheap.”

Herndon argued that such a mailing should have cost at least $1,000, which under campaign finance laws would trigger a required expense report within 48 hours.

McGrane said he planned the mailings carefully, and reported them in compliance with the law.

“I feel very comfortable in it,” McGrane said in an interview. “Obviously, reporting and campaign finance is on my mind regularly, especially in this portion of the cycle.”

McGrane said his campaign spent just over $16,000 total on mailers right ahead of the May 19 primary, and the mailers featured information about his own campaign for reelection on one side and endorsed two other candidates on the other. He endorsed 26 incumbent legislators, he said, and divvied up reporting so it came to about a $750 in-kind donation from his campaign to theirs, he said. The donations will appear in his May campaign finance report as well as the reports for the candidates he endorsed.

“There was a certain budget to do this,” Mc-Grane said “And it was just like, ‘we will only mail so many in each of these districts,’ … it may not have been as large of a pool as they thought.”

McGrane did not have a Republican primary challenger in his bid for reelection. He will face Democrat Shawn Keenan in the general election.

Under campaign reporting laws, McGrane is allowed to coordinate with other candidates to provide a direct donation to their campaign, as long as it’s within the $1,000 limit on contributions. However, if he reported the spending as an “independent expenditure,” he could exceed the $1,000 limit but would not be allowed to coordinate with the other campaign.

Herndon argues SoS role should be impartial in elections. McGrane disagrees.

Herndon told the Sun he could accept McGrane’s explanation for the cost of the mailers to show the reporting was in compliance. However, he said both in his formal complaint and in an interview that he didn’t think the person in charge of the state election office should weigh in on any races.

“In my opinion, he’s got to be completely impartial on the elections, regardless of the outcome,” Herndon said. “It clouds his impartiality.”

Herndon said it “muddies the waters,” especially if there’s an audit or recount in a district where McGrane weighed in on the outcome.

McGrane noted that his position is partisan and he runs in partisan elections. He doesn’t think his activity in the Republican Party takes away from his credibility overseeing elections.

“I think at times people forget I’m also on the ballot and a participant in the space, right?” he said. “I’m a partisan elected official. I’m a proud Republican. … I think the biggest thing that’s most important is we try to be hyper-transparent… and that includes the fact that I have opinions. I’m a voter, just like everybody else, that I want people to know where I stand.”

McGrane noted a recent drawing of counties for random audits of the primary election, which was open to the public, as an example of transparency. He also said he thinks it’s “great” that Herndon filed a complaint.

“I think I need to be held accountable, just like everybody else in the process,” he said.

IDAHO CAPITAL SUN IS PART OF STATES NEWSROOM, A NONPROFIT NEWS NETWORK SUPPORTED BY GRANTS AND A COALITION OF DONORS AS A 501C(3) PUBLIC CHARITY. IDAHO CAPITAL SUN MAINTAINS EDITORIAL INDEPENDENCE. CONTACT EDITOR CHRISTINA LORDS FOR QUESTIONS: INFO@IDAHOCAPITALSUN. COM.

Newport student named Presidential Scholar semifinalist

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:28 -0700

NEWPORT — A Newport High School senior has advanced to the semifinalist round of a national Department of Education program. Cooper Ericksen is currently named a U.S. Presidential Scholars in Career and Technical Education semifinalist. He was a rare dual candidate for the U.S Presidential Scholars Program, recognized for excellence in CTE as well as overall academic achievement, according to a Newport School District news release. “[Cooper’s] achievements, leadership, and character represent the very best of our CTE programs and our Grizzly Family,” CTE director Saraya Pierce wrote in the news release.

Nationwide, the class of 2026 consists of nearly 3.6 million seniors. From that, over 6,500 were selected as candidates for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, including Ericksen and two other NHS seniors, Alyssa Dibble and Grace Newlun.

Ericksen

Ericksen is one of only 630 semifinalists in the nation. Furthermore, he is one of just 60 semifinalists specifically for CTE.

To be a CTE candidate, a student must master four pillars: academic rigor, technical competence, employability skills and ingenuity.

“Throughout his high school career, Cooper has exemplified these pillars,” Pierce wrote.

Ericksen was named the 2025 Future Business Leaders of America National Champion in Computer Applications last summer. In addition to attending the 2025 FBLA National Conference in Anaheim, California, Ericksen has traveled to Technology Student Association Nationals, competing in virtual reality visualization.

At NSD, Ericksen has served on the CTE Advisory Committees for STEM and general CTE, worked with the information technology department on multiple projects and volunteered after school at the Grizzly Discovery Center.

Next, the Commission on Presidential Scholars will make a final selection of up to 20 CTE Presidential Scholars.

“Regardless of that final count, Cooper has already proven himself to be among the top tier of students in the United States,” Pierce wrote.

South Pend Oreille, DNR go after grass fire

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:27 -0700

South Pend Oreille Fire and Rescue was dispatched to a fast-moving grass and timber fire in the Spring Valley area Memorial Day, May 25. “A large response, quick attack, and a fantastic relationship with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) that allocated immediate air resources kept this one small,” SPOFR Chief Shane Stocking said.

Floyd retires from conservation district

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:26 -0700

NEWPORT — John W. Floyd has retired from the Pend Oreille Conservation District Board of Supervisors after more than 13 years of dedicated service.

“John’s leadership, commitment, and passion for conservation education have made a lasting impact on our district, our partners, and the community we serve,” a POCD Facebook status read. “His guidance and thoughtful perspectives have helped shape programs that will benefit Pend Oreille County for years to come.”

According to the POCD website, “The mission of the Pend Oreille Conservation District is to protect and enhance all natural resources including, but not limited to, air, soil, forest, wildlife, water, and land in the district through education, partnerships, and implementation using best management practices and financial/ technical assistance.”

Regular board meetings are held at 4 p.m. the third Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held both in person and virtually. Send an email to admin@ pocd.org for a link to join these meetings or to RSVP if planning to attend in person. Minutes are posted once they have been approved and singed by the POCD board of supervisors. Board members include vice chair George Stuivenga, Mike Mumford and Jon Paul Driver.

Coming up, the POCD is hosting a Forestland Grazing and Silvopasture Program from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, June 19. To sign up, go to pocd.org/ forestland-grazing-silvopasture- program.

BRIEFLY

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:25 -0700

BRI E FLY

Volunteers needed for highway clean-up

PRIEST LAKE — The Selkirk Conservation Alliance is looking for volunteers to help with the Highway 57 clean-up from 9 a.m. to noon Friday, June 5. Participants will meet around mile marker 16.5–17 (look for people and cars).

For more information about the event, email anderson@scawild.org or go to scawild.org.

Stoneridge golfers pay student meals

OLDTOWN — Idaho Hill Elementary received support from a local group of golfers from Stoneridge, known as the Richard Cranium’s Club.

The group, made up of 12–16 men who regularly golf together and contribute to a shared pot, chose to use their saved funds to make a meaningful impact for local students by paying off outstanding breakfast and lunch balances for students at Idaho Hill Elementary, ensuring that children can enjoy school meals without the burden of unpaid accounts.

School staff expressed deep appreciation for the unexpected gift, noting that the contribution directly supports students and families in the school community. The donation helps remove financial barriers and allows students to focus on learning and enjoying their school day.

“Acts of generosity like this highlight the strong connection between local community groups and area schools,” said Loretta Glazier, Idaho Hill Elementary principal. “(The school) extends sincere thanks to the Stoneridge golfers for their kindness, teamwork, and commitment to supporting students in need.”

YOUR OPINION

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:24 -0700

The Pend Oreille County Master Gardener Foundation thanks the community for their wonderful support of our annual plant sale this year.

We are grateful for everyone that stopped by and purchased plants as well as the Newport Miner for highlighting the sale in the newspaper and Selkirk Ace Hardware for donating items for our drawing.

The majority of the plants are grown and donated by the Master Gardeners with all the proceeds from the sale used to develop educational opportunities for the public and to purchase supplies for our demonstration garden (located on Circle Drive) such as wood and soil for new beds.

It was exciting to visit with all of the community members who came to the sale and shared their love of gardening.

The Master Gardeners are always interested in sharing gardening information, or learning something new from other community members, so feel free to stop by any time you see us in the demonstration garden.

Amy Dillon Pend Oreille County Master Gardener Foundation

Sudden elevation changes

harmful

Last week in two days the Priest River dropped three feet. It does this for Memorial Day and the 4th of July. Then rises just as radically in October. These alarming drops and falls are the direct result of the gates closed and opened at the Priest Lake Outlet bay dam.

Please take a look at google folder https://drive.google. com/drive/folders/17ytHDXECESpXBCoVap3fuwlvrjrx0eiz to see 15 years of flow history, a 50 second video filmed by a riverfront longtime resident, showing last week’s devastating water level drops and a one page report about why this is contributing to the decline of several species of spawning salmonids.

Along with negative impact on cold water fish, the sudden changes cause banks to collapse exposing water mammals’ dens where they are raising litters, bird nests in the banks are destroyed and wetlands along the river dry up overnight killing millions of benthic macroinvertebrates larva like damsel flies, dragon flies. The dam is not for electricity, flood mitigation or irrigation. It is so a relatively small amount of people can recreate.

Betty Gardner Priest River

Theories on Iran uranium

Some say Trump started a war with Iran. Others say he’s ending a war that began in 1979. They have been pushing America around since then and a bully in the Middle East.

Most of the world and especially the Middle East agree that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon.

My guess is that the deal Trump makes with Iran will include the uranium, either removal or its destruction. It’s my understanding that uranium has a fingerprint. Trump wants that fingerprint.

Remember under Obama, it was alleged that Obama and Hillary sold some of our uranium to other countries? It was said to have gone through Canada and then moved on.

How many countries? If so, how many ‘Heads of State’ knew about it? Did any go to Iran? Did Iran have enriching capabilities in Syria at the time?

What if Trump gets the uranium, tests it, and the fingerprint matches our uranium? Would that implicate the Obama Administration in any way? If the alleged is true, would that be considered aiding an enemy of the US to help build a nuclear program?

Hmm. Is that why the ‘Deep State’ is panicking?

Glen Pierce Spokane/Cusick

Forty percent of residents not represented

An interesting point was made last week about democracy vs. a constitutional republic.

At least 40% of Pend Oreille County voters have no constitutional representation in our state and local elections. They are out voted by the 60% that always vote for Republicans.

That’s why our county has had no growth and an economy dominated by government employment. If you don’t work for the government in our community, you are a lower paid service worker or a struggling small business owner. Our Republican commissioners function as Commissars in a socialist government structure, and rule without opposition.

Holding up a protest sign at the Newport Wheel doesn’t change the locked-in majority vote. Many Commissars run unopposed. Why would a Democrat waste time and money running against an overwhelming majority?

The best the 40% can hope for is that Republicans turn on each other and purge out an incumbent. All power is held by a small number of officials elected by a 60% majority. Think of your car engine running on 60% power and wasting 40% of the fuel in the tank. How do you make it up the long hill of community living with governing that excludes 40% of its people?

Pete Scobby Newport

Nate Powell for Congress

As someone who ran for Newport City Council in 2025, gaining 184 votes and only losing by 28, and who continues serving our community through the Pend Oreille County Planning Commission, I care deeply about the future of our community. That is why I am endorsing Nate Powell for Congress.

Nate Powell is an Independent, union firefighter, and Marine veteran who understands the struggles facing working families. He supports securing the border while fixing our broken legal immigration system, lowering the national debt by cutting wasteful spending, protecting Social Security and Medicare, and defending family farms from corporate monopolies.

He also wants to stop large corporations from buying up single-family homes, ban insider trading in Congress, and reduce the influence of corporate money in politics. As Nate says, “it’s not left vs. right, it’s top vs. bottom.”

Nate also supports protecting rural hospitals, veterans, and first responders in Eastern Washington, and knows the challenges rural communities face every day.

Last Tuesday, I attended Nate’s town hall, and he has something rare in politics today: honesty, independence, and a willingness to work with people from both parties.

Eastern Washington deserves leadership focused on working people, not political games.

John Spring Newport

Surprised by letter writer’s optimism

Last week, I opened the Opinion section of The Miner newspaper during my weekly retreat from reality. I anticipated encountering the hilarious customary discourse: Hitler, fascism, dictator, tax concessions for billionaires, etc.

Naturally, my expectations were met. After wiping my eyes from laughter, I encountered two letters: one that was spot on, Constitutional Republic vs Democracy, and a striking letter entitled, “We are a strong community, regardless of differences.”

This writer usually doesn’t cover this kind of topic. Typically, this writer harbors a negative temperament towards any individual or group that does not reside within the blue circle. In fact, consistently expressing disapproval of others’ viewpoints, writing at least 50 letters annually, typically relying on unverified information.

Upon reviewing the letter, I propose three potential explanations. First, it is plausible that the letter was written by a ghostwriter who took the name of the individual. Second, the writer may have finally looked into the mirror and experienced a “Come to Jesus moment.”

Last, perhaps the impending end of the world as we know it is near, so if that’s the case, I recommend everyone prepare for survival by gathering essential supplies.

Renee Webster Newport

Birthday wishes

Today is my birthday. For some reason, I still hear that question, “what do you want for your birthday?” That memory causes me to wonder what my now older self wants.

First, an end to war. This current war demands attention because of its cost, both in dollars and in the rule of law.

The impact on Americans and world-wide is mind boggling, realizing that this is Donald Trump’s war of choice. He and the Republican Party, including Michael Baumgartner have steamrolled this war down the streets of the world.

Secondly, I wish for health, education, safety and a thriving planet for our children and grandchildren. By ending this and future wars we would have the funds to provide these. There would be no call by Trump and Baumgartner to slash funding for Medicare, rural health care, the Department of Education, the EPA and other programs to pay for multi-billion dollar attempts to overthrow sovereign nations.

Thirdly, I wish for a return of our system of government, of the people, by the people and for the people and away from the abuse of power that Donald Trump and his enablers are trying to normalize.

JR Wyatt Elk

Increased flows forecast at Albeni Falls Dam

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:23 -0700

SEATTLE — Significantly increased outflows from Albeni Falls Dam are forecast due to heavy precipitation from the recent late spring storm combined with the continued melting of snowpack.

Water levels in the lake or Pend Oreille River may be noticeably higher but are not expected to result in increased flood risk, according to the U.S.

Army Corps of Engineers, Seattle District. To mitigate flood risk, USACE officials will increase outflow at AFD over the weekend and through next week. Spill gates will be operated in their fully open or fully closed positions.

Under this operation, outflow from AFD may rise or fall in the coming days, and outflow may change faster than usual operations.

Outflows from AFD are expected to be roughly 10,000 cubic feet per second less than inflows at Lake Pend Oreille. The lake will continue to rise over the weekend, and outflows may approach 85,000 cubic feet per second, according to the news release.

Current snowpack in the basin is about 57% of what is typically observed for this time of year.

Though snowpack is below normal, higher temperatures paired with rain are forecast to create high flows. Those on the river should be prepared for water levels to temporarily rise or fall as the event unfolds.

Areas downstream of the lake, such as Newport, Cusick and Usk, should be aware of changing forecasts. For the latest modeling forecasts, visit the National Weather Service’s Northwest River Forecast Center at nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/ flowplot/flowplot.cgi?lid=ALFW1.

LETTERS POLICY

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:22 -0700

We welcome letters to the editor.

Letters should be no longer than 200 words. Letters should be typed and submitted to The Miner office no later than 5 p.m. Friday for publication the following Wednesday. No letter will be published unless it is signed by at least one individual, even if the letter represents the view of a group.

The letter must include a telephone number and address for authentication. The Miner reserves the right to edit letters. Political letters will not be published the last issue before an election. Letters will be printed as space allows.

Idaho Hill celebrates students

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:21 -0700

OLDTOWN — Idaho Hill Elementary ended the school year with a celebration recognizing students’ dedication and effort during state assessments.

Throughout the spring, students worked to demonstrate their learning and growth. Kindergarten through third-grade students participated in the Idaho Reading Indicator, while students in third through sixth grades completed the Idaho Standards Achievement Test in reading, mathematics and science, according to an Idaho Hill Elementary news release.

To celebrate their hard work, students were treated to a special lunch provided by Truckin’ Delicious. Every student received a burger, bag of chips, beverage and snow cone. The event was made possible through the generosity of Tanner Linton, Reuben Akre, Hunter Storro, Jeff Connolly and Shane Horlacher, members of the Priest River community who wanted to recognize the students' efforts and accomplishments.

Following lunch, students and staff gathered on the field for a game of kickball, with students challenging their teachers and school staff. Despite the students’ enthusiasm and determination, the staff team emerged victorious with a final score of 14-1.

The celebration provided an opportunity for students and staff to reflect on a successful school year.

Most importantly, it served as a reminder that hard work, dedication and community support are all important parts of student success.

Idaho Hill Elementary congratulates all students on their accomplishments and wishes them a safe, fun and relaxing summer break.

Newport artist’s work on display at EWU

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:20 -0700

CHENEY — Former Newport resident Eastern Washington University senior Johnathan Brooks has his art displayed at the EWU art gallery now through Friday, June 5.

The exhibition is titled “Consumption” and features the works of seniors in the university’s Bachelor of Fine Arts program.

“This exhibition explores the relationship between memory, identity, and home through a series of representational oil paintings and intimate storytelling,” Brooks said in his artist’s statement for the exhibition. “The work examines how familiar spaces, personal experiences, and emotional recollections shape the ways individuals understand themselves and connect with others. Moving between direct observation and reconstructed memory, the paintings investigate the tension between what is physically seen and what is emotionally retained.”

Brooks’ pieces are oil painting and watercolor.

He has one more year of college where he will do his student teaching and his certification to teach kindergarten through 12th-grade art.

The Eastern Washington University Gallery of Art is located in the Art Building, 22 Seventh St., Cheney, situated in the center of the arts complex on the south end of the EWU campus.

Hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday.

Receptions are held on opening days of exhibitions, at noon Thursdays, unless otherwise noted.

All events are free to the public.

Calling All Poets

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:19 -0700

Would you like to share your poetry with The Miner Newspapers? Email typed poems to minernews@povn.com no later than 5 p.m. on Fridays for possible inclusion in the following week’s newspaper.

Dispatcher Man

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:18 -0700

(for the miners below) He sits behind a desk With a map and a mic And no one person in sight.

With magnets for machines Placed here and there He knows you are down there somewhere.

He is only heard and not seen.

He may sound mean Or even mad.

But when we make it out He’s really glad.

So when you holler and no answer is heard Just take five and wait for the word.

He’ll tell you to go and then to wait And holler at you, And tell you your late.

With nerves of steel And patience worn thin I wouldn’t want the position he’s in.

I wouldn’t even know where to begin.

Hey Dispatcher Man Please check me in.

- Dave ‘Shorty’ Short

BRIEFLY Newport Pride this Friday

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:17 -0700

NEWPORT — There will be a Pride Month rally at 10 a.m. Friday, June 5 in front of the Big Wheel in Newport.

Pride is a call for visibility, equality and community solidarity. This non-violent gathering is meant to raise awareness of ongoing and legal challenges, honor the lives lost to violence and the AIDS crisis and celebrate LGBTQ+ culture and achievements. Participants are welcome to bring a sign and join in.

Vacation Bible School at Peninsula Union Church

PRIEST RIVER — Come learn who Jesus is and see the illumination of Jesus’ life while enjoying singing, stories, crafts and snacks every day at Peninsula Union Church.

Children from three-years-old and up to just completed sixth grade are welcome. All children that attend must be potty-trained. Participants’ parents can register them for vacation bible school (VBS) when they arrive.

VBS is from 9 a.m. to noon June 15–19. There will be a short program at 12:30 p.m. Friday, June 19 for parents and family.

Peninsula Union Church is located at 3754 Peninsula Rd., about five miles north of Priest River. For more information, call Sue Chaney at 208-448-1884.

POSNA yard sale, pet food drive

NEWPORT — Declutter your life and help rescued animals by donating gently used, unneeded items to the Second Annual Pawsitive Outreach Spay Neuter Advocates (POSNA) Yard Sale, June 19–21 Friday–Sunday.

There will also be a pet food drive to help feed both POSNA’s rescued animals and those belonging to residents in the community who are struggling to feed their pets during difficult times.

The yard sale and pet food drive will be located at 8926 E. Oregon Rd in Elk, three miles off Highway 2, the same place as last year. There is some storage space available for those who need to drop donations off ahead of time. To arrange to drop off items, call or text Pam at 509-590-9934 or Cindy at 509-671-1427.

POSNA’s main mission is providing affordable spay/ neuter services to low-income pet owners in the area.

POSNA also has a no-kill shelter and is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so all donations are tax deductible. For more information, go to pawsitiveoutreach.org.

Mural artists wanted

NEWPORT — The Newport Creative District has two mural projects the non-profit is accepting applications for.

The project is made possible through funding from the Washington State Arts Commission.

The theme for the first building is nature and conservation, the theme for the other is motor sports for all seasons.

The deadline to apply is Tuesday, June 30. To apply, go to the Newport Creative District Facebook page and look for the status, “ATT: Mural Artists Call for Proposals.”

For more information about the creative district, go to newportcreativedistrict.com.

Share your life events for free

NEWPORT – The Newport and Gem State Miner Newspapers are looking to share your life events with the community.

Submit births, weddings and engagements to The Miner for publication at no charge. The Miner can be reached at 509-447-2433, minernews@povn.com or visit www.pendoreillerivervalley.com online, or stop by the office at 421 S. Spokane in Newport.

Grizzlies bring home medals from state

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:16 -0700

YAKIMA – The Newport High School track and field team saw Lucas Croswhite bring home two silver medals from the WIAA State Championships May 28-30 in Yakima, with the boys’ team placing 11th overall. Numerous Grizzlies placed in the top eight of their events.

“Newport boys placed 11th which is the highest placing since I have coached here,” head coach Levi Litowitz said. “All events except distance races had prelims (preliminaries) and then the top nine advanced to finals, the top eight got points and medals.”

Croswhite ran in the 110-meter hurdle prelims, running 15.19. In the finals he ran a personal record (PR) of 14.38 and took second in state. He also pole vaulted and achieved 13 feet. His next attempt was 15’ 6”, winning him second place.

Jonathan Hill took 11th in the 400-meter prelims with a time of 53.02. Rayben Jurgens threw 138’ 2” in discus, placing ninth overall. Dax Hansen triple jumped 40’ 1” and took seventh. Nathan Donati threw 130’ in javelin and placed 14th. The boys’ 4x100 relay team of Hansen, Croswhite, Kale Markwardt and Aidan Kramer ran a 44.54 in prelims and was ranked eighth going into finals. In the finals they ran a PR of 43.95, placing seventh. The boys’ 4x400 relay team of Hansen, Jonathan Hill, Tanner Rheinford and Croswhite ran 3:35.33 in prelims and was ranked seventh going into finals, finishing in seventh place after they then ran a time of 3:35.97.

For the Grizzly girls’ team, Olivia Collins ran a 12:25.31 in the 3200-meter, placing ninth. Joelle Brandtner jumped 14’11.25”, placing 11th in long jump. She then jumped a 34’2” distance in triple jump, placing sixth.

The girls’ 4x100 relay team of Brandtner, Allysah Bays, Hailey Davison and Savannah Garris ran a time of 52.97 and placed 11th overall.

“I am very proud of this team, they battled to get to state and it’s great to see them compete on the big stage,” Litowitz said. “Our program is getting better and better and next year we will be making a huge splash. Thank you for everyone supporting this program and its athletes, we couldn’t do it without you.”

SOPHIA MATTICE-ALDOUS IS A MURROW NEWS FELLOW WORKING DIRECTLY WITH NEWSROOMS AT THE NEWPORT MINER AND RANGE MEDIA THROUGH A PROGRAM ADMINISTERED BY WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY. HER REPORTING IS AVAILABLE FOR USE VIA CREATIVE COMMONS WITH CREDIT.

Rangers represent Selkirk with pride at State

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:15 -0700

YAKIMA – Selkirk track and field made a good showing at the Annual WIAA State Championships May 28-30 in Yakima, with Jameson Davis earning fifth place in javelin, sixth place in the 400-meter and 14th place in discus.

Other Ranger state performances included Oscar Dispenza in 11th place in the 3200-meter race; Kaden Strickler in 15th place in the 110-meter hurdles and 11th place in the 300-meter hurdles; Rowan Hampson finished 16th place in the girls’ 400-meter; and Morgan Hendershott was ninth place in the girls’ 100-meter hurdles and 17th place in the girls’ 300-meter hurdles.

The girls’ 4x100 and 4x400 relay teams of Hampson, Trinity Milton, Anidy Patterson and Hendershott finished in 16th place for both races.

Dust off that old fishing gear for Free Fishing Day and beyond

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:14 -0700

Free Fishing Day is June 13, and it’s a great opportunity to be outdoors and get acquainted with Idaho’s great fishing spots. Fishing is an inexpensive sport because you can get all the gear you need for about $50 (or less). But odds are good you have some old fishing gear laying around the house, or someone in your family has some you can borrow. You can also check garage sales or second-hand stores. Even if it hasn’t been used in years, it will probably still catch fish.

So dig out that old, trusty, dusty fishing gear and let’s get it ready to fish.

The rod (aka fishing pole)

Does it have all the eyes intact? Great, it’s probably ready to go. If it’s a sectional rod, check if the sections come apart. If not, put some penetrating oil on it, such as WD40 or Break Free. The sections should easily disassemble and reassemble. If they won’t come apart, you can still fish with it, it will be just a little trickier to transport.

Next, check the reel seat. Chances are good there’s already a reel on it, but check the locking ring to see if it’s still functioning. If it’s corroded, apply more lubricating oil, or if it has a reel that feels solidly attached, leave it alone because there’s no urgent need to replace the reel so long as it’s working properly.

The reel

These come in many shapes and sizes, but all reels must do two things: reel in line, and let line out. If the handle cranks freely, it will probably reel in line, so you’re off to a good start. Now figure out if it will let line out.

Depending on the type of reel, this is accomplished by flipping the bail on a “spinning” reel, or pushing a button a “baitcaster.”

If your reel does those things, you’re probably ready to go. But there’s another thing to check and that’s the drag, which allows line under tension to gradually unspool in case you have a fish pulling hard enough to break the line. Drag is important, but if you’re catching smallish fish, such as panfish or trout under 12 inches, it’s not critical.

The line

This is probably the most overlooked thing if you’re resurrecting old fishing tackle, and what will most likely to ruin your fishing trip because it will be kinky and tangle easily. If the reel hasn’t been used in a year or so, replace the line.

Line is inexpensive, and you can replace the line yourself, or take the reel to a sporting goods store or tackle shop and have them do it.

Basic bait and tackle

Now we’re getting to the fun stuff, and it’s no exaggeration to say there are millions of things to put on the end of your line to catch a fish.

But a few pieces of basic tackle will catch nearly any fish, which includes hooks, weights (or bobbers) and bait. An earthworm will catch a huge variety of fish and is probably crawling around in your yard, but it may be easier to spend a few bucks on a dozen nightcrawlers.

Consider those items your starter kit. And if for some reason you have a working rod and reel, but no tackle, you can get all of them for about $10 or less.

Lures

If you have a tackle box with some random- looking lures, give them a try. Even if it’s grandpa’s old tackle box, there’s no reason that what worked then won’t still work now. It helps to know what fish a particular lure was designed to attract, but a lot of lures look nothing like anything in the natural world, and they can catch a surprising number of fish species.

If you notice they have rusty hooks, or their silver, gold or bronze finishes have tarnished.

You can buy replacement hooks for a fraction of what a new lure costs, so go ahead and replace them. If they’re tarnished, a small piece of steel wool will brighten them.

Where to go

Now you have all you need to go fishing, and Idaho Fish and Game can help with that. Fishing is free on June 13, meaning no fishing license is required for people 14 years and older on that day. (Children 13 and younger are not required to have a fishing license in Idaho.)

Next take a look at Fish and Game’s Fishing Planner, which provides information about nearly every body of water in the state that has public fishing.

Braun is Coach of The Year

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:13 -0700

Newport Head Softball Coach Steve Braun was named the NE2B North Softball Coach of the Year Thursday, May 14.

BRIEFLY

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:12 -0700

BRI E FLY

YAKIMA – Cusick High School track and field athlete Richard Sandwick brought home the bronze from the WIAA State Championships May 28-30 in Yakima, placing third in the 800-meter with a time of 2:03.25. He placed fifth in the 3200-meter with a personal record (PR) of 10:17.42. Sandwick placed seventh in the 1600-meter with a time of 4:45.43.

Business, person, non-profit of the year announced at meeting

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:11 -0700

PRIEST RIVER – The Priest River Chamber of Commerce is holding its general meeting Wednesday, June 3, at 5 p.m. at Vicki Raes Pizza. Reservations as required by Wednesday, May 27. A maximum of 70 attendees are allowed.

The chamber will be discussing Timber Days, the junior high building, a the announcement of Business, Person and Non-Profit of the Year, in addition to the Bull of the Woods.

Call the chamber at 208-448-2721.

County staff available for volunteering

NEWPORT – The Pend Oreille County Commissioners have designated a “Week of Service,” Monday, June 8 through Friday, June 12, 2026, in celebration of America250, and want to help local non-profits/organizations.

County staff are authorized to use a half-day anytime during that week to volunteer at pre-determined non-profits/organizations in the community. If you are an interested organization or need more details, reach out to Clerk of the Board Crystal Zieske at 509-4474119.

Here are some state laws taking effect

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:10 -0700

OLYMPIA — The 2026 Washington legislative session wrapped up, passing 267 bills to Governor Bob Ferguson to sign into law. We would go insane giving you a rundown of each one, but here’s a look at a few we followed during the 2026 legislative session.

SB 6002 Driver Privacy Act (effective March 30, 2026)

This law is designed to protect driver data captured by surveillance cameras from police abuse. It limits which agencies state and local police can give access to data gathered by their license plate-reading cameras, known as automated license plate readers. It also restricts the amount of time they keep data gathered by the cameras to 21 days, which is far longer than police accountability activists had advocated. Under this law, police must register, report and audit their ALPR systems, and it says they cannot be used to help federal agents enforce immigration law.

HB 1903 Statewide Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (effective June 11)

The Statewide Low-Income Energy Assistance Program created by this law streamlines the process for funding energy subsidies for low-income people.

It requires the Department of Commerce to phase in funding to participating utilities to reduce the monthly energy bills of low-income customers. The law also modifies utility energy assistance requirements under the Clean Energy Transformation Act (CETA). Governor Bob Ferguson vetoed the section of the bill requiring the Department of Commerce to establish an advisory group for the Statewide Low-Income Energy Assistance Program on March 30, citing lack of funding.

HB 1906 Water System Rates (effective June 11)

This law is meant to limit sudden rate hikes for water. It does so through several mechanisms. First, it requires public water systems to tell their counties and water districts when they change ownership. It also requires the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission to adopt rules for determining water companies’ rates and prohibits the UTC from approving any transaction that changes the controlling interest in a water company unless the transaction provides net benefits to customers of the company. It also allows a water company to file a multiyear rate plan with the UTC.

HB 1941 Cannabis Agricultural Cooperatives (effective June 11)

This bill amends existing laws to allow cannabis producers to form agricultural cooperatives, providing them with similar structural benefits to traditional agricultural cooperatives. An agricultural cooperative is a user-owned, democratically controlled business allowing farmers and producers to combine resources, collectively purchase supplies and market products.

According to an amendment to the bill by the Labor and Commerce Committee added on March 5, “Licensed cannabis producers may form associations or cooperatives and engage in activities as provided in RCW 24.34.010. No single association or cooperative may represent more than three cannabis producer licenses issued by the liquor and cannabis board at any given time.”

SB 6182 Abortion Savings Program (effective June 11)

The bill creates a public funding stream low-income people can access to pay for abortion care in Washington. A new section added to chapter 43.70 RCW outlines the program›s purpose, including awarding operating grants to eligible organizations that promote equitable access to abortion services. The bill mandates that at least 85% of the funds appropriated for the program be distributed as grants, while also ensuring the confidentiality of identifying information related to grant recipients and service providers.

SB 6260 Public Education Funding (effective June 11)

This bill would reduce the state’s obligations to the public education system by $31.8 million in 2025–27, $70.6 million in 2027–29 and $74.3 million in the 2029–31 biennium, according to the Everett Post. SB 6260 will extend the state’s reimbursement timeline for buses purchased by school districts, lengthening the amount of time buses can run before they need to be replaced, spreading state payments over a longer period.

Use for smaller buses would increase from eight to 10 years, while those for larger buses would increase from 13 to 15 years.

The bill also reduces the combined maximum enrollment for students participating in Running Start temporarily to 1.3 full-time equivalents if the tax on millionaires is enacted (it was).

This means students can still participate in summer Running Start, but they will need to carefully plan their credits with academic advisors to maximize the lower limit, which will affect the 2026–27 and 2027–28 school years. Funding for the Transition to Kindergarten Program would be limited, allowing school districts to charge tuition and fees for the transitional kindergarten program, except for children with disabilities.

Eliminates the inflationary increase for National Board bonuses beginning in the 2026–27 school year.

HB 1604 Jail Searches/Gender (effective June 11)

Provides parameters for conducting searches of transgender and intersex people who are incarcerated in Washington. Those folks will also be able to choose the gender of the staff conducting their search or request a medical professional.

HB 2105 Immigration Worker Protection Act (effective June 11)

The bill aims to bolster protections for immigrant workers in Washington State by mitigating the impacts of federal immigration enforcement actions, such as workplace raids. Key provisions include requirements for employers to notify workers of federal inspections of I-9 forms and related records.

Employers must also post notices in multiple languages and ensure that affected workers receive timely information about inspection results. HB 2105 sets penalties for non-compliance, allowing the attorney general to investigate violations and pursue legal action on behalf of affected workers. Employers are prohibited from retaliating against workers for exercising their rights and workers may seek damages in court.

HOT BOX

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:09 -0700

Special deadline Tuesdays noon.

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION

at ELTC Law Group to support you and your family. Unexpected illness and death can happen and new tax changes that will affect everyone’s estate have been proposed. Make sure you are prepared and please call our office for your Estate Planning, Asset Protection, After Death Transfers, Long Term Care/ Medicaid and General Business needs (509) 447-3242. (4HB-tf)

ANNUAL RUMMAGE SALE

American Lutheran Church, 332801 Highway 2, Newport. Friday, June 5th from 9:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. Last hour come make a deal. (20p)

YARD SALE

June 6th and 7th, 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Everything from snowblower to riding lawn mower, chainsaws. Lots of tools, camping gear and stuff, including a camp trailer. 1142 Driskill Road, Newport.(20p)

FIREWOOD WANTED

Two - four cords, split 16” long of red fir. Must be a 128 cubic foot cord. (509) 995-0777, ask for Scott. (20p) POTATO BAR

Saturday, June 6th, 5:00 - 7p.m., American Legion, Cusick, Washington. Proceeds go to Cusick new playground. Info (509) 445-1537

END ROLLS

of newsprint start at just $1.00. Great for art projects, do it yourself wrapping paper, packing around those fragile gifts and so much more! Get yours at The Miner Newspaper office, 421 South Spokane Avenue, Newport. (17HB-10)

ATLASES

We offer atlases for Bonner County - $45.00; Pend Oreille County - $40.00. These are very durable and handy to have! The Miner Newspapers, 421 South Spokane Avenue, Newport. Monday - Thursday 8:305:15. (509) 447-2433. (17HB-10)

PRIDE RALLY

Friday, June 5th, 10:00 a.m. at the Big Wheel in Newport. Non-violent and community centered. Everyone welcome. (19-2)

Need something at a good price? Try The Newport Miner and Gem State Miner Classifieds.

NEWPORT GRIZZLIES

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:08 -0700

NEWPORT GRIZZLIES Friday, June 5, 7 p.m. Newport High School

Aiden Anderson

Alexus Yurkovitch

Alyssa Dibble

Carter Brandtner

Caydin Hoisington

Clara Simonson

Evyn Logan

Gavin Rash

Gavin Schoener

Jayden Thibodeau

JJ Findlay

Jordan Baumbach

Luke Wright

Marisa Dahl

Markis Teeples

Sammi Tellessen

Sara Al Qrinawi

Ares Swain

Aundrea Carter

Barrett Boone

Colton Crawford

Cooper Ericksen

Dalton Pelican

Genica Kreider

Grace Newlun

Hailey Bolyard

Judah Barnett

Kailynn Kells

Kaitlyn Lumpkin

Matthew Serpa

Megan Lindor

Meleana McPherson

Savannah Garris

Sienna Turner

Sophia Kuznetsova

Brad Martin

Brayden Barton

Brodie Moody

Dany Mendoza

Dominick Thomas

Donovan Mason

Heaven Cooper

Holly Waterman

Jack Youk

Kellen Von Carnop

Kellene Jensen

Kole Keogh

Meygan Naccarato

Paige Rivera

Parker Jackson

Tanner Rheinford

Truce Ugartechea

Tyler Ward

Caden Marsengill

Carsen Hirst

Carson Wyrobek

Dylan Taxter

Emma Crabtree

Emmalee Doughty

Jacob Reimers

Jaden Totland

Jayden Robinson

Lily Brown

Lindsay Rose Collison

Louden Zwarg

Prestyn Holley

Richard Bradshaw

Robert Warren

Vaelyn Asbury

Vance Vooge

PEND OREILLE RIVER SCHOOL

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:07 -0700

Thursday, June 4, 6:30 p.m. Newport High School

Brandon Butler

Kilian Keefe

Serinity Carson

Roy Kisner

Jack Carter

Aidan Lambert

Charli Castro

Maria MacArthur

Shantaya Rohrer

Everett Sawyer

Steven Crane

Shayla Magday

Olivia Cygiel

Raistlin Melton

Nathen Davis

Memphis Moran

Malachi Shanholtzer

Leto Twardowski

Peyton Wallace

Tiffany Fassett

Jonathan Morgan

Tyeden Geaudreau

Lola Morgan

GracieMae Harvey

Makayla Passmore

Leslie Henjum

Shanen Preston

Tayla Whitney

Alissa Burgess

Nelah Hoover

CUSICK PANTHERS

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:06 -0700

Friday, June 5, 8:30 p.m. Kalispel Pow Wow Grounds

Bowen Kramer

Daliliah Littlcrow-Curtis

Makli Browneagle-Branson

Meagan Hoisington

Daryl Byrd

David Lyon

Michael Barkman

Michael Butler

Isaiah Martin

Mylie Mason

Jazzlyn Carrasco

Lasigh Woodrow

Oceanna Blodgett

Ondrej Suchanek

Ryamond Pierre

Taylor Ickes

Lex Swift

Parker Lawrence

Thomas Sullivan

SELKIRK RANGERS

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:05 -0700

Jameson Lee Davis

Kalea Maile Stumphf

Jeven Lawrence Reed

Anidy Louise Patterson

Marisa Michele Lyons

Jessa Mae Gomez Culianan

Trinity Brailyn Milton

Blake Jacob Reed

Lyndsee Lilly Pettis

Malinda Marie-Rose Sullivan

Caden Shawn Pichette

Cameron Josiah Kulczyk

Keaton Chase Arrastio

Josh Andrew Parks

Courtney Paige Hastings

Lucy Rain Robitaille

Aiden Patrick Newman

Rowan Ann Hampson

Paxton Cooper Gaines

Austin James-Pemberton Fristad

Josiah Stephen VanMeer

Jaden Zane McNaughton

Clara Virginia Schwartz

Saturday, June 6, 1 p.m. Selkirk High School

POLICE REPORTS

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:04 -0700

EDITOR’S NOTE: The police reports, taken from dispatch logs provided to The Miner by law enforcement agencies, are not intended to be an exact report, but rather a comprehensive list of police calls in Pend Oreille and West Bonner counties. Dispatch also fields calls for the Kalispel Tribe’s property in Airway Heights. Certain police calls are generally omitted because of space constraints. These include, but aren’t limited to ambulance calls for illness, unfounded alarms, traffic stops, dogs at large, abandoned vehicles, 911 hang–ups and civil standbys. All dispositions for the police reports are assumed to be active, assists or transfers at press time.

PEND OREILLE COUNTY

MONDAY, MAY 25

ILLEGAL BURNING: Davis Lake Rd., Usk, report of under-control but unattended fire.

PROPERTY THEFT: Rusho Lane, Newport FISH & GAME: LeClerc Rd. N., Cusick, report of young bear on property, not agitated but would not leave.

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCE: S. Scott Ave., Newport, report of neighbors’ children maybe dealing drugs.

DISTURBANCE: S. Union Ave., Newport, report of subject causing problems in public park restroom.

MALICIOUS MISCHIEF: Holly Rd. & Horseshoe Lake Rd., Deer Park, report of complainant requesting case number for insurance purposes, reported it that morning but did not realize it was Public Utility District property until recently.

FIRE: Spring Valley Rd., Newport, report of grass and timber fire about an acre in size.

ARREST: W. Circle Dr., Newport, Rebecca Lynn Holland, 35, of Newport was arrested for assault fourth-degree domestic violence.

TUESDAY, MAY 26

DECEASED PERSON: Bartlette Rd., Usk, report of found male deceased.

ANIMAL CRUELTY: Newport, report that female had four cats that she carried around in a carrier of some type with her and caller was concerned it was too hot.

THREATENING: W. Circle St., Newport, report of daughter threatening parents.

NON-INJURY COLLISION: S. Washington Ave., Newport, report of three vehicles involved in accident.

THEFT: Sullivan Lake Rd., report of road signs stolen.

JUVENILE PROBLEM: S. Calispel Ave., Newport MALICIOUS MISCHIEF: Deer Valley Rd., Newport, report of damage to gate.

FIRE: Hwy. 2 & Fertile Valley Rd., Newport, report of vehicle on fire in northbound lane.

ANIMAL PROBLEM: N. Newport Ave., Newport, report that dog was in parking lot, looked like brown German shepherd with chain collar.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 27

JAIL HOUSING: S. Garden Ave., Newport, report of transporting inmates to jail.

INMATE TRANSPORT: S. Garden Ave., Newport TRESPASSING: E. Blackwell St., Ione, report that complainant wanted subject trespassed.

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCE: Schaefers Beach Dr., Newport, report that people were in the house and taking items.

ILLEGAL BURNING: Coyote Trail, Newport, report of large burn pile flames almost touching branches on surrounding trees.

THEFT: Danforth Rd., Usk, report that someone took plates sometime that day from complainant’s Jeep Cherokee.

ANIMAL PROBLEM: S. Scott Ave., Newport, report that neighbor’s pit-type black-and-white dog was chasing another neighbor’s cat.

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE: Dike Rd., Cusick, report out with male.

ILLEGAL BURNING: Bobier Rd. S., Newport, report that complainant saw fire just south of his residence.

THEFT: Deeter Rd., Newport, report that complainant’s vehicle was stolen two days ago.

THURSDAY, MAY 28

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCE: Park St., Metaline Falls, report that complainant wanted someone to go check on his residence.

SMOKE: Lower Pines Rd., Newport, report that complainant could see large cloud of smoke in area.

ANIMAL CRUELTY: W. Walnut St., Newport, report of white Kia Hatchback, Nevada plate, with dogs inside.

THEFT: Turner Rd., Newport, report of boat trailer with generator on it stolen.

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE: Pow Wow Park, Cusick ASSAULT: Phay Rd., report that juvenile assaulted staff.

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCE: S. Scott Ave., Newport, report that someone dropped female off and left black bag of something too, female no longer there.

UTILITY PROBLEM: LeClerc Rd. S., Newport, report of power line braker on fire.

UTILITY PROBLEM: Hwy. 20, Newport, report of lightning strike.

TRAFFIC HAZARD: S. Union Ave. & W. 5th St., Newport, report of tree down in roadway.

TRAFFIC HAZARD: LeClerc Rd. S., Newport, report of tree blocking whole road.

TRAFFIC HAZARD: Kapps Lane & Westside Calispel Rd., Cusick, report of tree blocking whole road.

TRAFFIC HAZARD: Snyder Hill Rd., Ione, report of tree on power line.

UTILITY PROBLEM: Farber Lane, Cusick, report of tree over power lines, nothing on fire.

TRAFFIC HAZARD: Hwy. 31, Metaline, report of power lines completely over highway.

FRIDAY, MAY 29

CUSICK: Reynolds Creek Rd., Cusick, report that power pole broke and was laying against cattle panel.

SMOKE: Gardner Caves Rd., Metaline Falls, report of visible smoke.

JUVENILE PROBLEM: Hwy. 20 SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCE: Cusick Meadow Rd., Cusick, report that plane dropped cargo.

ERRATIC DRIVER: Hwy. 20, report of excessive speeding.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON: Bear Paw Dr., Newport, report of subject asking complainant odd questions.

UTILITY PROBLEM: Lehigh Ave., Metaline Falls, report that lightning hit power lines.

FIRE: Cusick Boat Launch, Cusick, report that old slash pile started up again.

ANIMAL NOISE: Weber Rd., Newport, report that neighbor’s dogs were barking nonstop.

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCE: Telephone Rd. E., Newport, report of unknown vehicle on property.

THREATENING: Hwy. 31, report of subject threatening people.

AGENCY ASSIST: Smackout Creek Rd., Colville, report of side-by-side versus deer.

SATURDAY, MAY 30

TRESPASSING: S. Union Ave., Newport, report that subject was camping out in public restroom.

MISSING PERSON: N. 7th Ave., report of missing person with dementia.

VEHICLE PROWL: Danforth Rd., Usk, report that car was broken into.

ANIMAL PROBLEM: Moonlight Lane, Newport, report of dog at large.

BOOK & RELEASE: S. Garden Ave., Newport, Gabriel M. Macias, 19, of Sagle was booked and released for a hit and run and driving without required interlock.

ERRATIC DRIVER: Hwy. 2, report of biker convoy taking up both lanes and not letting people pass.

ERRATIC DRIVER: Deer Valley Rd. & Coyote Trail, Newport, report of vehicle in and out of traffic, speeding.

HARASSMENT: Lenora Dr., Usk, report of claims of neighborhood harassment.

FISH & GAME: Westside Calispel Rd., report that Canadian goose appeared to be injured.

ANIMAL PROBLEM: Coyote Trail, Newport, report that neighbor’s dog had killed at least one chicken.

TRAFFIC OFFENSE: Allen Rd., Elk, report of vehicle driving fast, going about 80 miles per hour, flicking cigarettes out at complainant.

ANIMAL PROBLEM: S. Scott Ave., Newport, report of two dogs running and barking at complainant’s dogs.

WEAPON OFFENSE: Hwy. 20, report of subject shooting from boat toward shoreline.

SEX OFFENSE: W. 5th St., report that man was exposing himself and urinating.

ERRATIC DRIVER: Hwy. 2, Newport, report that semi ran caller off road.

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCE: Tule Rd., Cusick, report of possible alcohol consumption.

SUNDAY, MAY 31

FISH & GAME: Hwy. 20, report out with subject. ANIMAL PROBLEM: Womack Lane, Newport, report of neighbor’s dogs on property again.

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE: Triangle Rd., Usk, report out with vehicle.

BURGLARY: Buck Creek Rd., Newport, report of burglary on property.

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE: Cusick Meadow Rd., Cusick

TRAFFIC OFFENSE: W. 4th St. & S. Scott Ave., Newport, report of Chevy truck flying through neighborhood.

ILLEGAL BURNING: Calispel Ave., Cusick, report of illegal burn of garbage in yard.

NON-INJURY COLLISION: Camden Rd. & Willms Rd., Elk, report of vehicle T-boned, blocking.

UNKNOWN-INJURY COLLISION: Hwy. 2, report that vehicle went off roadway.

WEST BONNER COUNTY

MONDAY, MAY 25

DOMESTIC DISPUTE: Priest River AGENCY ASSIST: Indian Creek Park Rd., Coolin TUESDAY, MAY 26

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION: Merritt St., Priest River, report of weeds and plants.

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION: Larch St., Priest River, report of abandoned vehicle.

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION: Merritt St., Priest River, report of weeds and plants.

VEHICLE THEFT: Dutch Harbor Rd., Coolin AGENCY ASSIST: Estates Loop, Priest River CHILD NEGLECT: Priest River DEFRAUDING AN INNKEEPER: Hwy. 2, Oldtown, report of theft of services.

CHILD NEGLECT: Priest River

WEDNESDAY, MAY 27

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION: Hwy. 57, Priest River, report of weeds and plants.

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION: Troudt Court, Priest River, report of physical address.

NON-INJURY ACCIDENT: River Birch Rd. & Hwy. 2, Laclede

THURSDAY, MAY 28

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION: E. Jefferson Ave., Priest River, report of weeds and plants.

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION: 2nd St., Priest River, report of weeds and plants.

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION: E. Jefferson Ave., Priest River, report of plants and grass.

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION: E. Jefferson Ave., Priest River, report of weeds and plants.

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION: E. Jackson Ave., Priest River, report of weeds and plants.

RESCUE: N. Neopit Rd., Priest Lake FRIDAY, MAY 29

CITATION: Hwy. 2, Priest River, a 48-year-old man from Priest River was cited for reckless driving.

ARREST: Chipakota Lane, Oldtown, James Glasgow, 71, of Oldtown was arrested on his misdemeanor warrant in connection to a property theft report.

TRESPASSING: Old Priest River Rd., Priest River SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE: N. Idaho Ave., Oldtown

HIT-AND-RUN ACCIDENT: Hwy. 41 & Spirit Lake Ctf, Spirit Lake

UNKNOWN-INJURY ACCIDENT: Hwy. 41 & Spirit Lake Ctf, Spirit Lake

SATURDAY, MAY 30

ARREST: Hwy. 41, Blanchard, Robert Jones, 69, of Priest River was arrested for driving under the influence.

RECKLESS DRIVING: Hwy. 41, Blanchard SUNDAY, MAY 31

PROPERTY THEFT: Eastside Rd., Priest River DOMESTIC DISPUTE: Spirit Lake SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE: Old Forest Rd., Spirit Lake