Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by David Bernauer
Fog outside, gratitude inside at Hayden Veterans Day ceremony
It may have been foggy outside, but the atmosphere at Hayden’s Veterans Day Ceremony was bright. At the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, Hayden residents filled McIntire Family Park to celebrate veterans. The ceremony was kicked off by the Northern Lakes Fire Protection District Honor Guard presenting the colors followed by a performance of “You’re a Grand Old Flag” and “God Bless the U.S.A.” by Skyway and Atlas elementary schools.
Hayden eyes ALPR camera policy Original
Hayden intends to take a closer look at technology designed to take a closer look at drivers. Hayden City Council members on Tuesday discussed considering formal policies governing automated license plate readers, including cameras operated by both government and private entities. A workshop to discuss the issue is tentatively scheduled in January. The main questions at hand were who has access to information gathered by ALPRs, how long it should be retained and whether it can be shared or sold.
Hayden eyes ALPR camera policy
Hayden intends to take a closer look at technology designed to take a closer look at drivers. Hayden City Council members on Tuesday discussed considering formal policies governing automated license plate readers, including cameras operated by both government and private entities. A workshop to discuss the issue is tentatively scheduled in January. The main questions at hand were who has access to information gathered by ALPRs, how long it should be retained and whether it can be shared or sold.
Prescribed burns planned along I-90 Original
FERNAN LAKE VILLAGE, Idaho — The towering pines of North Idaho add to the area's charm. To protect these trees, about 100 acres of land along Interstate 90 from Fernan Lake to Higgens Point is set to have prescribed burns soon to reduce hazardous wildfire fuels near the highway. Kootenai County’s FireSmart program is leading the project, tasking consulting forester Steve Bloedel of Inland Forest Management as project manager.
Upcoming Veterans Day events and ceremonies
North Idaho is honoring its veterans before, during and after Veterans Day on Nov. 11, recognizing the bravery, sacrifice and service of our military heroes. Nov. 11 Free dental care for veterans | Sunshine Dentistry, 1280 E. Polston Ave., Post Falls. Sunshine Dentistry is offering free dental care for uninsured, low-income veterans in the community. Services include crowns, cleanings, extractions, fillings, exams and X-rays. Proof of military service is required.
Prescribed burns planned along I-90
The towering pines of North Idaho add to the area's charm. To protect these trees, about 100 acres of land along Interstate 90 from Fernan Lake to Higgens Point is set to have prescribed burns soon to reduce hazardous wildfire fuels near the highway. Kootenai County’s FireSmart program is leading the project, tasking consulting forester Steve Bloedel of Inland Forest Management as project manager.
'Come Together' for art bench walk
The city of Hayden is inviting residents to take a walk while taking a look at seats. The project, “Come Together,” is being introduced to the public at 1 p.m. Saturday. Those interested in seeing the benches are encouraged to meet at McIntire Family Park next to Hayden City Hall.
Prescribed burns underway near Cd'A
Coeur d’Alene residents may have noticed the air quality index is forecasted to be in the 90s or seen some smoky skies. There are indeed fires, but they are part of scheduled prescribed burns in Bottom Canyon, east of Hayden Lake and north of Fernan Saddle, according to the U.S. Forest Service. “Pile burning is a tool often used in the fall months to remove hazardous fuel (excess vegetation) from the landscape,” U.S. Forest Service Public Information Officer Kary Maddox said in an email.
Removal of Silverwood letters causes social media stir
A new park name? Tearing down Timber Terror? A new Spirit Halloween location? Making room for a data center? These were all ideas thrown out on social media by concerned fans of Silverwood Theme Park after a photo was spread of the “Silverwood” lettering being taken down from the iconic Timber Terror rollercoaster. Alas, it’s simply maintenance.
After 15 Years, Spirit Lake pets Have a doctor close to home
Dr. Brittney Hunt treats a dog. Hunt opened Hunt PRN Veterinary Services a month ago. Hunt PRN Veterinary Services photo Dr. Brittney Hunt with two cats she treated. Hunt PRN Veterinary Services photo Hunt PRN Veterinary Services client Kyla Thierry's dog Chewbacca, who had been hospitalized after eating a rock. Now, Thierry and Chewbacca don't have to travel to Coeur d'Alene for veterinary care.
Charity Reimagined's annual Training Day emphasizes connection, self-care
Helping others starts with understanding them and yourself. Charity Reimagined held its sixth annual Training Day on Friday. Social workers, counselors, teachers and other professionals who regularly interact with people going through mental health and life struggles attended the training to better understand the needs of those they serve.
FAST FIVE: Christine Matheny
Christine Matheny Courtesy of Christine Matheny Christine Matheny with former Coeur d'Alene Realtors Association President Michael Wendland. Courtesy of Christine Matheny Matheny holds her Community Impact award from the Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber. Courtesy of Christine Matheny Christine Matheny competing in one of her 27 triathlons.
Catholics pray for the departed at All Souls Day Mass
Candlelight illuminated the faces of those who gathered for an All Souls Day Mass in St. Thomas Cemetery in Coeur d’Alene to remember the lives and legacies of loved ones who are gone but not forgotten. “We gather as Christians and Catholics, as people who believe in the resurrection,” Father Mariusz Majewski said Monday night.
Removal of Silverwood letters causes social media stir Original
ATHOL, Idaho — A new park name? Tearing down Timber Terror? A new Spirit Halloween location? Making room for a data center? These were all ideas thrown out on social media by concerned fans of Silverwood Theme Park after a photo was spread of the “Silverwood” lettering being taken down from the iconic Timber Terror rollercoaster. Alas, it’s simply maintenance.
Removal of Silverwood letters causes social media stir
The Silverwood name and Timber Terror are not being changed nor taken down after social media speculation. Courtesy of Silverwood Theme Park by | November 6, 2026 1:07 AM A new park name? Tearing down Timber Terror? A new Spirit Halloween location? Making room for a data center? These were all ideas thrown out on social media by concerned fans of Silverwood Theme Park after a photo was spread of the “Silverwood” lettering being taken down from the iconic Timber Terror rollercoaster.
Upcoming Veterans Day events and ceremonies
by | November 6, 2026 1:06 AM North Idaho is honoring its veterans before, during and after Veterans Day on Nov. 11, recognizing the bravery, sacrifice and service of our military heroes. Nov. 6 You have read all of your free articles this month. Select a plan below to start your subscription today. Already a subscriber? Login $29.50 per month Buy $9.95 per month Buy
Prescribed burns underway near Cd'A Original
Coeur d’Alene residents may have noticed the air quality index is forecasted to be in the 90s or seen some smoky skies. There are indeed fires, but they are part of scheduled prescribed burns in Bottom Canyon, east of Hayden Lake and north of Fernan Saddle, according to the U.S. Forest Service. “Pile burning is a tool often used in the fall months to remove hazardous fuel (excess vegetation) from the landscape,” U.S. Forest Service Public Information Officer Kary Maddox said in an email.
Prescribed burns underway near Cd'A
Coeur d’Alene residents may have noticed the air quality index is forecasted to be in the 90s or seen some smoky skies. There are indeed fires, but they are part of scheduled prescribed burns in Bottom Canyon, east of Hayden Lake and north of Fernan Saddle, according to the U.S. Forest Service. “Pile burning is a tool often used in the fall months to remove hazardous fuel (excess vegetation) from the landscape,” U.S. Forest Service Public Information Officer Kary Maddox said in an email.
Local voters make their voices heard
Election Day gives voters the chance to have a voice and Coeur d’Alene voters had plenty to say. Some voters such as Frank Darlington regularly come out to make their voices heard. “Whether it's midterm, regular, or special elections, I vote,” he said. For some like Evan Taylor, it was their first time voting in Coeur d’Alene. Ballot measures such as Prop 1 and the temporary Coeur d’Alene Public Schools tax levy were important to Taylor.
North Idaho healthcare providers receive millions in rural health grants Original
BONNER COUNTY, Idaho — Millions of dollars in funds have been awarded to medical facilities across North Idaho to improve access and expand services for rural residents. Governor Brad Little announced that the state has awarded $186 million in year-one grant funding for the Rural Health Transformation Program, which includes investments in Bonner, Benewah and Kootenai counties. This story continues below.
Catholics pray for the departed at All Souls Day Mass
Candlelight illuminated the faces of those who gathered for an All Souls Day Mass in St. Thomas Cemetery in Coeur d’Alene to remember the lives and legacies of loved ones who are gone but not forgotten. “We gather as Christians and Catholics, as people who believe in the resurrection,” Father Mariusz Majewski said Monday night.
North Idaho healthcare providers receive millions in rural health grants
Millions of dollars in funds have been awarded to medical facilities across North Idaho to improve access and expand services for rural residents. Governor Brad Little announced that the state has awarded $186 million in year-one grant funding for the Rural Health Transformation Program, which includes investments in Bonner, Benewah and Kootenai counties.
Wild West Rustic Furniture's signature feature returns
A local landmark has returned. Wild West Rustic Furniture became well known for the massive chair in the parking lot in front of the store, where many folks stopped to take a photo with the unusually large piece. “When people call, customers will say things like, ‘Yeah, I know where the big chair is,’" store owner Carol Folda said.
Remembering North Idaho's fight against white supremacy
If anything was made clear Thursday night at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, it was that hate cannot thrive in North Idaho. Tony Stewart of the Kootenai County Task Force on Human Relations and retired attorney Norm Gissel met at St. Luke’s to discuss the history of white supremacy in the region. “A community is just like an individual,” Stewart said.
Remembering North Idaho's fight against white supremacy
If anything was made clear Thursday night at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, it was that hate cannot thrive here. Tony Stewart of the Kootenai County Task Force on Human Relations and retired attorney Norm Gissel met at St. Luke’s to discuss the history of white supremacy in the region. “A community is just like an individual,” Stewart said.
Rathdrum seeks changes to property tax law
The Rathdrum City Council adopted a resolution to support efforts to amend Idaho’s House Bill 389, which governs local property tax budgets. Council members said the law’s property tax restrictions have made it increasingly difficult for Rathdrum to keep up with the costs of growth and provide municipal services such as law enforcement, street maintenance and infrastructure.
Idaho's skilled trades are expected to boom
Idaho’s skilled trades are expected to boom, and North Idaho is working to keep up. Idaho is projected to boast the second-fastest growth of skilled trade workers in the country over the next decade, according to a report from the Alliance for America’s Skilled Trades. However, North Idaho will need to prepare for the expected demand it could face.
Hayden, Kootenai County remain at odds over law enforcement contract
The Hayden City Council declined to hold a vote Tuesday night to enter a month-to-month contract agreement with the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office after Hayden said the Kootenai County Board of County Commissioners and the city couldn’t agree on the terms of a deal. “It is my understanding today that the Board of County Commissioners met to discuss the contract,” Mayor Alan Davis said.
Hayden, Kootenai County remain at odds over law enforcement contract Original
HAYDEN, Idaho — The Hayden City Council declined to hold a vote Tuesday night to enter a month-to-month contract agreement with the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office after Hayden said the Kootenai County Board of County Commissioners and the city couldn’t agree on the terms of a deal. “It is my understanding today that the Board of County Commissioners met to discuss the contract,” Mayor Alan Davis said.
Idaho's skilled trades are expected to boom. Can North Idaho keep up?
Idaho's skilled trades are expected to boom, and North Idaho is working to keep up. Idaho is projected to boast the second-fastest growth of skilled trade workers in the country over the next decade, according to a report from the Alliance for America's Skilled Trades. However, North Idaho will need to prepare for the expected demand it could face.
NOV NIBJ: North Idaho leaders speak on their mentors
In order to get to the places we want to be in life, we need some help along the way to get there. North Idaho’s local business leaders are no different in that regard. Coeur d’Alene Tractor General Manager Matt Adams said his late father was his biggest mentor. Started in 1929, Coeur d’Alene Tractor has passed through the family for generations and will celebrate its 100th year of existence soon. Adams said his father was always a good source of advice throughout their lives.
Idaho's skilled trades are expected to boom. Can North Idaho keep up?
Idaho’s skilled trades are expected to boom, and North Idaho is working to keep up. Idaho is projected to boast the second-fastest growth of skilled trade workers in the country over the next decade, according to a report from the Alliance for America’s Skilled Trades. However, North Idaho will need to prepare for the expected demand it could face.
Idaho's skilled trades are expected to boom. Can North Idaho keep up?
COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho — Idaho’s skilled trades are expected to boom, and North Idaho is working to keep up. Idaho is projected to boast the second-fastest growth of skilled trade workers in the country over the next decade, according to a report from the Alliance for America’s Skilled Trades. However, North Idaho will need to prepare for the expected demand it could face. This story continues below.
Idaho's skilled trades are expected to boom. Can North Idaho keep up?
Idaho’s skilled trades are expected to boom, and North Idaho is working to keep up. Idaho is projected to boast the second-fastest growth of skilled trade workers in the country over the next decade, according to a report from the Alliance for America’s Skilled Trades. However, North Idaho will need to prepare for the expected demand it could face.
Northern Lakes Fire District partners with 208 Recovery to support mental health response Original
RATHDRUM, Idaho — Northern Lakes Fire District is partnering with 208 Recovery to bring help to those struggling with substance abuse or a mental health crisis. Firefighter EMTs who work for the NLFD often have to respond to calls where someone is in a crisis. They can transport that person to a hospital for immediate treatment, but what happens after the person leaves that setting? Now the NLFD is able to steer those in need to peer-led support services with 208 Recovery.
Northern Lakes Fire District partners with 208 Recovery
Northern Lakes Fire District is partnering with 208 Recovery to bring help to those struggling with substance abuse or a mental health crisis. Firefighter EMTs who work for the NLFD often have to respond to calls where someone is in a crisis. They can transport that person to a hospital for immediate treatment, but what happens after the person leaves that setting? Now the NLFD is able to steer those in need to peer-led support services with 208 Recovery.
Cuckoo for clocks: Black Forest Christmas Village opening Sunday
No, you’re not going cuckoo. That is, in fact, a cuckoo clock store in Silver Lake Mall. Black Forest Christmas Village presented by Clocktology will be having its grand opening on Sunday. Run by the father-daughter duo of Alan Rush and Codie Mathison, Black Forest Christmas Village was started after years of Rush selling refurbished cuckoo clocks on eBay and his Clocktology website. “We saved all our clocks for this,” Rush said.
Hayden to honor Distinguished Veteran
The city of Hayden and its Veterans Commission will hold the 20th annual Veterans Day Ceremony at McIntire Family Park at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11. The ceremony will honor Hayden’s 2026 Distinguished Veteran, Paul Braden. “Mr. Braden is being recognized for his distinguished military service, outstanding leadership and decades of dedication to veterans and the North Idaho community,” Hayden Events and Recreation Coordinator Jennifer Arrotta said in a statement.
Chuck Orr joins Spirit Lake City Council
Chuck Orr is Spirit Lake's new city council member. Orr fills the vacancy left by Wendy Walter, who resigned Tuesday, citing personal and family reasons. “I won't be able to devote as much time to the city council or the city’s business as I would like to, so I don't think it's fair to our taxpayers,” Walter said. “I set a pretty high bar for myself as far as my dedication.” Walter said she had been thinking through the decision for the last few months before deciding it was time to resign.
Bringing the Blackwell House back to life
People say items are built to last. But Spirit Lake resident and newly appointed City Councilman Chuck Orr saw otherwise when he happened upon the Blackwell House. Originally owned by area lumber magnate Frederick Blackwell, the house had fallen into disrepair over the past 120 years. Orr decided he would refurbish it. “It was in such rough shape, but there was something that just drew me to it,” Orr said.
Chuck Orr joins Spirit Lake City Council
Chuck Orr is Spirit Lake's new city council member. Orr fills the vacancy left by Wendy Walter, who resigned Tuesday, citing personal and family reasons. “I won't be able to devote as much time to the city council or the city’s business as I would like to, so I don't think it's fair to our taxpayers,” Walter said. “I set a pretty high bar for myself as far as my dedication.” Walter said she had been thinking through the decision for the last few months before deciding it was time to resign.
Rathdrum extends water plan contract
Wednesday night, the Rathdrum City Council voted 3-0 to allow Mayor John Hodgkins to extend the city’s Water Master Plan update contract with J-U-B Engineers through Nov. 30. City officials told council that missing historical data and discrepancies between a computer model and real-world testing have delayed completion of the update.
Hayden officials explain roundabout delays, postpone ALPR vote
Follow Hayden officials explain roundabout delays, postpone ALPR vote David Bernauer | Coeur d'Alene Press Fri, October 16, 2026 at 2:56 PM EDT Sometimes, things don't go as planned. The Hayden City Council meeting on Tuesday kicked off with an announcement: Councilman David Erickson would be unable to attend.
Spirit Lake Fire Protection District seeking permanent levy
Follow Spirit Lake Fire Protection District seeking permanent levy David Bernauer | Coeur d'Alene Press Fri, October 16, 2026 at 2:52 PM EDT The Spirit Lake Fire Protection District needs your help. The District hopes voters will pass a new, permanent tax levy Nov. 3 to help fund and replace the current temporary levy. The current levy gives the District $477,000, while the proposed permanent levy would increase that to $785,000.
Hayden officials explain roundabout delays, postpone ALPR vote
HAYDEN, Idaho — Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. The Hayden City Council meeting on Tuesday kicked off with an announcement: Councilman David Erickson would be unable to attend. As a result, the council didn’t feel comfortable moving forward with a vote on whether Hayden should move forward with implementing a policy on Automatic License Plate Reader cameras, or ALPRs. This story continues below.
Spirit Lake Fire Protection District seeking permanent levy
The Spirit Lake Fire Protection District needs your help. The District hopes voters will pass a new, permanent tax levy Nov. 3 to help fund and replace the current temporary levy. The current levy gives the District $477,000, while the proposed permanent levy would increase that to $785,000. “To be able to increase (our levy) another $308,000 and say that that's a permanent levy for us, that is huge,” District Fire Chief Dave England said.
Hayden officials explain roundabout delays, postpone ALPR vote
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. The Hayden City Council meeting on Tuesday kicked off with an announcement: Councilman David Erickson would be unable to attend. As a result, the council didn’t feel comfortable moving forward with a vote on whether Hayden should move forward with implementing a policy on Automatic License Plate Reader cameras, or ALPRs. Those who wanted to make public comments could still share their opinions on ALPRs for the record.
Store mascot missing from Coeur d'Alene pet shop Original
COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho — The Duncan’s Pet Shop website lists three animals as its store mascots: a chameleon named Conway, a dog named Raven and a cat named Oscar. Last Thursday evening, mascots residing within the store dropped down to two. Oscar went outside on the shop’s property Oct. 8 and didn't return, store manager Terri Kaiser said security footage shows. This story continues below. More in Local “He was right outside this (back) door, which we leave open so he can go in and out,” Kaiser said.
Kitty Caper: Store mascot missing from Duncan's Pet Shop
The Duncan’s Pet Shop website lists three animals as its store mascots: a chameleon named Conway, a dog named Raven and a cat named Oscar. Last Thursday evening, mascots residing within the store dropped down to two. Oscar went outside on the shop’s property Oct. 8 and didn't return, store manager Terri Kaiser said security footage shows. “He was right outside this (back) door, which we leave open so he can go in and out,” Kaiser said.
Penny's Pit reopening in Rathdrum
Rathdrum staple Penny’s Pit is back. In May, Christina and Ryan Klundt closed Penny’s Pit. Between the everyday struggles of running a small restaurant, owning the Dashco next door, operating Penny’s Pit since 2013 and starting and raising a family, the burnout got to them. “My son was always talking about how I was always gone,” Ryan said. The Klundts couldn’t be kept away from business for long though and reopened Wednesday.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with David
Contact David, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack