Character Education to be Taught by SRO's

The Coeur d’Alene Police Department has enjoyed a long, successful partnership with School District 271. Throughout the years we have collaborated to form a School Resource Officer (SRO) Program and the DARE program. Both have been largely successful. Last year a joint decision was made to move DARE from the 5th grade to the 6th grade. This decision was made due to the many federally mandated curriculum standards that caused DARE to compete for classroom time with other areas of study.

Due to last years 6th graders having already had DARE in the 5th grade the program was put on hiatus for a year. During that time school resource officers took the opportunity to teach “Character Education” during exploratory time in the middle schools. This class is taught everyday during the last hour of the school day. The middle school SRO’s have been acting as instructors several times a week.

This has allowed police officers to form the same positive relationships with children as was accomplished in the DARE program. The Character Education curriculum was developed by the school district and is focused on strong decision making models for pre-teens as they navigate social pressures in their formative years. The Police Department and the School District jointly monitored the program to evaluate its success. We are pleased to report that students are interested and engaged in the character education classes.

This year our collaboration will continue in the form of Character Education rather than DARE. SRO’s will persist to teach important principles and help students make positive choices. The DARE vehicle that contains flat screen TV’s and a top of the line sound system donated by area merchants, will continue to be utilized for teaching moments as it has in the past.

Coeur d’Alene Police Officer Tom Sparks taught character education for several years in the school district. He instituted the “Character Matters” campaign that decorates the DARE vehicle. He is returning to the SRO Division this fall and will carry on with the character matters theme he started. We are excited to have Tom’s expertise and experience in this area. The Police Department and School District 271 are eager to bring this opportunity to area students and institute this dynamic program on a permanent basis.

For more information contact Sergeant Christie Wood, Public Information Officer Coeur d’Alene Police Department, 769-2320.

Lastest Library Newsletter Online

The July-August edition of PageTurner, the newsletter of the Coeur d'Alene Public Library is now online at the library website, www.cdalibrary.org. To access it directly click HERE.

Please Note: The Coeur d'Alene Public Library, along with other City offices, will be closed on Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day.

Anyone wishing to be added to the contact list for regular library updates can do so by sending e-mail to: dtownsend@cdalibrary.org.

Fireworks - Laws & Safety

For everyone’s safety, citizens are urged to abide by fireworks laws adopted by the City of Coeur d'Alene. Please practice common sense and respect your neighbors as we lead up to the 4th of July celebration.

A few reminders:

- Only “safe & sane” nonaerial fireworks can be sold or discharged in the City of Coeur d’Alene. Generally, anything that explodes or is launched into the air is illegal (unless permitted for a public show by a licensed pyrotechnical professional).

- It shall be unlawful for any person (with few exceptions) to:

(1) Alter any fireworks;
(2) Throw any fireworks from, into, or at a moving vehicle or at any person;
(3) Use fireworks in any area that constitutes a severe fire threat based on the vegetative conditions during the current fire season.

­- Except when permitted as a part of a public display, it is unlawful for any person to have in his or her possession or to use fireworks of any kind on any city owned or operated park, beach, dock, parking lot or other property, including, but not limited to, Tubb's Hill, city park, city beach, Jewett House beach, Independence Point, Memorial Field, Veterans' Memorial, McEuen Field, Harbor Center, Ramsey park and Northshire park.

- No fireworks shall discharged within the city except between eight o'clock (8:00) A.M. on June 23 and ten o'clock (10:00) P.M. on July 5 of each year.

- Pick a safe location for lighting you legal fireworks and keep a garden hose or fire extinguisher nearby.

- Clean up any messes made.

Tubbs Hill Fire

Yesterday afternoon, Coeur d’Alene Fire Department crews responded to a small forest fire on the North side of Tubbs Hill. Crews were able to quickly extinguish the fire. With temperatures rising and the fourth of July right around the corner fire crews are getting a little worried according to Fire Chief Kenny Gabriel. “The fourth is always a wildcard day for us. We always want residents and visitors to the City to celebrate, we just want them to be aware of where and how they are doing it” states Chief Gabriel.

The weather forecast calls for warm temperatures with below normal precipitation. The Fire Department will have additional crews on duty the fourth and will be working with P.D. to make sure nothing out of the ordinary happens on and around Tubbs Hill.

Gabriel adds, “Every year it seems we have folks up on the hill with fireworks. We urge users of the hill to not bring fireworks on Tubbs Hill, or any City Park. The fire danger is creeping up and we do not want anything but a great celebration this weekend.”

City Hall Closed Friday, July 3rd

On Friday, July 3, 2009, Coeur d’Alene City Hall will be closed in observance of the Independence Day holiday. Other city offices and facilities will be closed as well. Emergency calls for Police, Fire, and Streets can be made by dialing 9-1-1. Other city facilities have emergency numbers and can be reached if the need arises: Sewer Back-up 769-2241 and Water 755-9729.

City Hall and other city facilities will open Monday, July 6th at 8:00 a.m. For more information, please call 769-2204.

4th Street Reconstruction Project Enters Phase II

The 4th Street Reconstruction Project enters its second phase beginning Tuesday, June 30th. The second phase of the construction will begin at the alley north of Lakeside Avenue and proceed north to Foster Avenue.

Phase II includes grinding of the asphalt and it will also include the replacement of the stormwater utility, curb and gutter, and electrical utility.

When the entire project is completed – target date early October 2009 – midtown will be a rich blend of public art, eclectic shops, restaurants and residences, paved intersections, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, and tree-lined streets.

Learn Computer Basics with Free Library Workshops During July

Learn basic information about how computers work, begin using the Internet or learn about word processing with free computer workshops during July at the Coeur d’Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave.
The library’s workshops are offered on a first-come, first-served basis for up to nine participants and preregistration is not required. The 90-minute workshops are taught by Christopher Brannon, Information Technology Coordinator in the library’s computer lab. Participants should arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled starting time.
The upcoming workshops are:
► Introduction to Computers: Monday, July 6, 6-7:30 p.m. An informative tour in the basics of computers. If you have never touched a computer before, or have worked with computers but have not felt very comfortable with them, this workshop is for you. Basic typing skills are helpful, but not necessary.
► Surfing the Web ¬- Searches on the Internet: Monday, July 13, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Workshop will provide a basic understanding of how to search the Internet using search engines, such as Google, Hotbot, and Yahoo!.
► Basics in Word (Word Processing): Monday, July 27, 6-7:30 p.m. This workshop gives patrons a basic understanding of how to create, edit, and format documents in a word-processing program.
READ MORE WORKSHOPS

Author, Sculptor to Sign 'Mudgy & Millie' Books July 5

Author Susan Nipp and sculptor Terry Lee will sign copies of “Mudgy & Millie” Sunday, July 5, 1-3 p.m. at Independence Point in Coeur d’Alene.
Copies of the book and official ‘Mudgy & Millie’ merchandise will be available to buy from the Coeur d’Alene Public Library Foundation.
In case of inclement weather the activity will move to the Community Room at the Coeur d’Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave.

READ MORE MUDGY AND MILLIE

Sergeant Promotion

Officer Scott TenEyck was selected to be promoted to the rank of Sergeant and he will be assigned to the Patrol Division. Scott has been an officer with the Coeur d’Alene Police Department for eight years and has been involved in law enforcement for approximately 24 years. While employed with Cd’A Police, Scott has held assignments in both the Patrol Division as well as Investigations. Scott is currently the School Resource Officer at Cd’A High School. He has also been active in both the Honor Guard and the S.I.R. Team.

Congratulations Officer TenEyck!

Traffic Alert –Motorcycle Ride

A permit was issued to the “Cal-Tex Riders,” an organization of retired law enforcement officers for an organized ride through Coeur d’Alene this Thursday, June 25th. The 100+ motorcycles will be led and followed by police escorts. Streets will not be barricaded/closed for the event. The ride will start at 11 am beginning at the Coeur d’Alene Inn going east to Highway 95, then south on Highway 95 onto Northwest Boulevard southbound to Sherman, and then along Sherman Avenue from 1st to 23rd. The event will be over by 11:45 am.

Council Adopts Idaho's First Complete Streets Policy

The City of Coeur d’Alene was included in the National Complete Streets Coalition e-newsletter as adopting the First Policy in Idaho!

At the May 5th City Council meeting, the Coeur d'Alene City Council adopted a “complete streets policy.” The focus on the Complete Streets movement is to build road networks that are safer, more livable, and welcoming to everyone.

From the Coalitions e-newsletter: “The adopted policy addresses streets, bridges, and public transportation stops in the community, with specific policies for rural areas. The City's Pedestrian and Bicycle Committee aimed to have a long-term planning tool to facilitate accessibility for bicyclists and those with disabilities, as well as general multi-modalism. Councilman Goodlander commented that the policy is an opportunity for the city to move into the future, when cars are not the only way to travel.”

The City of Coeur d’Alene’s Complete Streets Policy can be viewed here: http://parks.cdaid.org/images/Final%20Complete%20Streets1.pdf

The complete newsletter can be read at: http://www.completestreets.org/

Robbery Suspect Photo

Pertaining to the robbery last night is a photo taken of the suspect from video surveillance of the robbery that occurred at the Shell Station at 508 NW Blvd. If anyone can identify the suspect call Coeur d’Alene Police at 769-2320.

Robberies Investigated

The Coeur d’Alene Police Department is currently investigating the report of two robberies that occurred in the downtown area of Coeur d’Alene. The robberies were in close proximity and within an hour and 10 minutes of each other. The suspect description is similar in both cases. It is as follows:

A white male, 18 to 20 years of age, 6 ft. slender build, large nose, deep set eyes, possibly short blond hair, Black hoodie zip up sweatshirt with a light color design on the zipper, long black shorts, long white t-shirt with a colored circular design on the left breast area, black skater shoes with no socks.

The Zips incident occurred first at 6:10 pm. The cashier saw the male approaching the store located at 715 E. Sherman while pulling down a ski mask. The cashier locked himself into the office area. A witness in the store said the suspect entered the store but did not take anything. The witness said the suspect did not make any threats but did have a handgun. The suspect fled the store and ran north on 7th St, then west in the 600 block alley of N. Lakeside.

At 7:20 pm a white male of similar description entered the Shell Station at 508 NW Blvd. He put an item on the counter and gave the clerk money to pay for it. The clerk attempted to give the suspect change and the suspect reached into the till and took an undisclosed amount of money. The suspect fled on a white BMX style bike east on Garden Ave. No weapon was observed in this incident.

Further updates will be provided as they become available. Anyone with any information on this crime is asked to call the Coeur d’Alene Police Department at 769-2320.

Vehicle Strikes House

Coeur d’Alene Police responded to 622 N. 17th St. at 10:46 am for the report of a vehicle that struck a residence. Officers contacted the driver of the vehicle Wandee Katanaree, 30 years of age of Coeur d’Alene and determined she was uninjured. She was the only occupant of the vehicle, a 1999 B-4000 Mazda pickup

Wandee stated that she has her learners permit and was practicing backing up. She was on 17th St. when she accelerated instead of using the brake. Her vehicle struck the family room area of the residence located at 622 N.17th. No one was inside the residence at the time. The vehicle and the residence sustained extensive damage.

The owner of the residence Barbra Juveg, had to secure the roof since the vehicle hit a support beam. It also caused damage to the foundation.

Wandee was cited under City ordinance for misdemeanor careless driving. She faces up to a $300.00 fine. For more information contact Sergeant Christie Wood, Public Information Officer, Coeur d’Alene Police Department at (208) 769-2320.

A word from a neighbor to the West in Post Falls

Here's an email note from a neighbor from Post Falls who dealt with our city Fire Department this weekend. Kudos to our city's first responders who respond with professionalism and compassion.

Today 06-14-09 at about 10:30 the men of the fire engine came to our rescue. Maybe not in a huge way for them, but in the biggest way for us.

Myself and my two sons, ages 3 and 5, stopped in the parking lot of the Ramsey Elementary school, so that my boys could play on the schools play ground equipment. Well in getting the boys out of the truck and all the excitement my son shut the truck doors before I could get the keys out. My keys, purse and our belongings where inside. The weather was of course hot and I could not figure out what to do.

The men of Fire Station #2 had no idea how bad my day was going up to this point. With the world as it is now, my husband has had to work out of town for the railroad, and at this point had been gone for a week. Of course down to my last nerve taking care of everything alone. Furthermore no relatives or anyone to come to my rescue, even if there was the only thing I did have in my hand, was my cell phone and of course the battery was dead.

Then to add to this, my 5 yr old said he needed a bathroom right now. I wanted to just collapse, but just then I saw the fire station and thought lets see if they can help us. So we crossed the street and ran over there. My first contact with the gentlemen of Station #2 was great, they were so polite, kind and patient with us. First they unlocked the door, so my son could get to a toilet. Then I had asked if they had a coat hanger, but they said they would do one better. They surprised me and said they would come over to the truck and help us. One fire fighter walked with me and the boys, back over across the street which was great, then came the truck over, and they took care of getting the door open in just a minute.

They went beyond that and gave each of the boys a plastic fire hat, which the boys wore all day and now this evening want to wear to bed.

I cant say thanks enough, but if only for a second I want those men to know that they not only unlocked a car today, but they put a smile on my face and helped me to believe that even in this day and age there are those that will go above and beyond to help others. If only for a few minutes, you made a lifetime impression on my self and my boys.

Thanks, and stay safe always.

Mary A.,

Post Falls

Ironman Street Closures Announced

On June 18th, between 1:30 and 2:00 p.m., street crews will begin to set in place the barricades and detour route for the closure of Sherman Avenue at 2nd Avenue and Independence Point.
1.Southbound traffic wanting to get into the downtown area will be detoured onto Lakeside Avenue to 2nd, 3rd or 5th, etc., to reach Sherman Avenue.
2.There will be a slip lane provided for the resort at Independence Point. This will allow us to keep traffic flowing to the resort.
3.Westbound traffic will be detoured southbound onto 2nd and Front Avenue. These vehicles will loop around onto 4th Street and exit the downtown on Lakeside or north on 4th Street. 2nd Street at Sherman will be closed to northbound traffic. This area has been very congested in the past and being an ITD bypass route, we have always chosen to close traffic northbound and to it leave open to just southbound traffic.
4.Bleachers will be staged on Sherman at 6:00 p.m. on the 18th and will stay in place until the afternoon of June 22nd.
5.The Independence Point parking lot will be closed early Wednesday as they set up medical tents and Ironman stores.
6.At the time of the closure, the signals at 2nd and Sherman will be put in the red flash mode and the signal at Lakeside and Independence Point will be shut off to keep traffic flowing.

Other Closures
The 3rd Street boat trailer parking area will be closed early Wednesday morning, June 17th, and re-opened Thursday, June 28th. Alternate boat trailer parking is available in the main lot or south of City Hall during this closure.
The city also closes Government Way for “NO PARKING” on the East Side from Garden to Harrison, Saturday, June 20th, and race day Sunday, June 21st.
For more information, please call 769-2233.

The Bicyclist and the “Rules of the Road”

By Sergeant Christie Wood
Public Information Officer
Coeur d’Alene Police Department

Coeur d’Alene Police bike patrol officers have started their summer patrol duty and will continue patrolling the city trails and downtown area until after Labor Day. As Coeur d’Alene welcomes the annual Ironman event, these officers as well as Reserve Officers on foot patrol will be reminding athletes, leisure cyclists, and other motorists of the rules of the road. It is imperative that bicyclists and motorists follow traffic laws to prevent unnecessary accidents. The following are some reminders of Idaho law regarding bicyclists:

A person propelling a bicycle shall not ride other than upon or astride an attached permanent and regular seat.
No bicycle or human-propelled vehicle shall be used to carry more persons at one (1) time than the number for which it is designed and equipped.
An adult rider may carry a child securely attached to his person in a backpack or sling or in a child carrier attached to the bicycle.

No person riding upon any bicycle, coaster, roller skates, skateboard, sled or toy vehicle shall attach it or himself to any vehicle upon a highway.

No person riding upon any bicycle or human-powered vehicle shall follow a vehicle so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard to the rider.
Any person operating a bicycle upon a roadway at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing shall ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except under any of the following situations:
(a) When overtaking and passing another bicycle or vehicle proceeding in the same direction.
(b) When preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway.
(c) When reasonably necessary to avoid conditions including fixed or moving objects, parked or moving vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians, animals, surface hazards or substandard width lanes that make it unsafe to continue along the right-hand curb or edge.

Any person operating a bicycle upon a one-way roadway with two (2) or more marked traffic lanes may ride as near the left-hand curb or edge of the roadway as practicable.

Persons riding bicycles upon a highway shall not ride more than two (2) abreast except on paths or parts of highways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. Persons riding two (2) abreast shall not impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic and, on a laned roadway, shall ride within a single lane.

A person operating a bicycle or human-powered vehicle approaching a stop sign shall slow down and, if required for safety, stop before entering the intersection. After slowing to a reasonable speed or stopping, the person shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle in the intersection or approaching on another highway so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard during the time the person is moving across or within the intersection or junction of highways, except that a person after slowing to a reasonable speed and yielding the right-of-way if required, may cautiously make a turn or proceed through the intersection without stopping.

A person operating a bicycle upon and along a sidewalk, or across a highway upon and along a crosswalk, shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian, and shall give an audible signal before overtaking and passing a pedestrian or another bicyclist.
(2) A person shall not operate a bicycle along and upon a sidewalk or across a highway upon and along a crosswalk, where the use of bicycles is prohibited by official traffic control devices.
(3) A person operating a vehicle by human power, or operating a motorized wheelchair or an electric personal assistive mobility device upon and along a sidewalk, or across a highway upon and along a crosswalk, shall have all the rights and duties applicable to a pedestrian under the same circumstances.
Every bicycle in use at the times described in section 49-903, Idaho Code, shall be operated with a light emitting device visible from a distance of at least five hundred (500) feet to the front, attached to the bicycle or the rider, and with a reflector clearly visible from the rear of the bicycle.

For more information on Idaho motor vehicle laws: http://www.legislature.idaho.gov/idstat/Title49/T49.htm.

Library closed June 21 due to Ironman

Due to street closures related to Ironman, the Coeur d'Alene Public Library will be closed Sunday, June 21. Normal hours will resume Monday, June 22, at 10 a.m.
More news and information about the library can be found at www.cdalibrary.org.

“Smart Watering” Workshop Canceled

The Smart Watering Workshop planned for Saturday, June 13, at Riverstone Park in Coeur d’ Alene has been canceled. For questions, please contact Brook Beeler at 509-329-3478.

EMERGENCY WATER REPAIRS ON LOCUST AVE.

The Water Dept. crew is working on a water leak on Locust Ave. They are having to do an emergency shut down on Locust from 9th to 6th Place immediately do to a service valve blowing off. The water should not be off for more than ½ hour.

Terry W. Pickel
Assistant Superintendent
City of Coeur d'Alene, Water Dept.

First Fireworks-Related Fire of the Season

On Wednesday June 8, at 5pm, the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department responded to a grass fire in a field which threatened a boat trailer in the 100 block of Hattie Avenue in Coeur d’Alene. The fire department and neighbors contained the fire to a 1/10 of an acre. The city fire investigators discovered the remains of an illegal firework at the area of the fire's origin.

The Coeur d’Alene Fire Department reminds the public of the elevated fire danger our community is facing due to the low precipitation this spring. Despite the rain we received earlier this week, weather conditions have returned to above normal temperatures and vegetation is dry enough to quickly spread even a small fire out-of-control. These dangerous fire conditions coupled with fireworks being used throughout the community can result in serious or catastrophic property loss and pose a threat to the public’s safety.

The Coeur d’Alene Fire & Police Departments have produced a one-page brochure outlining and explaining the illegal use of fireworks within the City of Coeur d'Alene and it's available at the Fire Headquarters and police station. Fireworks of any type are prohibited from all city parks and property, which include Tubbs Hill, city beaches, and docks. Only “safe and sane” type fireworks that are available for purchase inside the city limits are legal to use on private property. All fireworks are dangerous to humans and pets and require adult supervision for use.

The Fire and Police Departments encourage city residents and visitors to the City of Coeur d'Alene to be mindful of fire danger and not disturb their neighbors' peace. If there is a fire or crime in progress, immediately call 911. Police Chief Wayne Longo and Fire Chief Kenny Gabriel issued a joint statement: “We hope that our citizens enjoy the holidays and please assists us in keeping our city safe."

Traffic Alert – Car d’Lane

Car d’Lane is this Friday and Saturday in downtown Coeur d’Alene. There will be traffic impacts in the downtown area on both Friday night and Saturday.

Friday Night Car Cruise:
Friday night is the cruise with a parade of cars that will begin at 6 pm lining up at Peterson’s market at 12th and Sherman (Sherman will be closed at 15th) and proceeding west, then north on 4th, then west on Indiana, south to Sherman, west to 8th then continuing the loop. The cruise is from 6 pm until 10 pm.

Saturday Car Display:
On Saturday, Sherman and Lakeside will be closed from 2nd to 7th from 8 am to 5 pm to enable classic cars to be displayed for the public to view.

A couple of new additions this year include the Budweiser Clydesdales sponsored by Centennial Distributing. The Clydesdales will be in the parade/cruise Friday night and can be viewed on Saturday on 5th Street north of Sherman. Also new is a model car display in the Plaza Shops.

Police Officer Entry Level Testing

Coeur d’Alene Police is offering a test for entry level police officer.

The date of the test has been changed from September to the week of July 20th-24th 2009.

Applicants take a written exam and a physical agility test before advancing to an oral board.

The City Human Resources Department will change the closing date for applications to next week, June 19th.

The date has changed in order to fill any vacancies in the near future. Any entry level hires will need to attend POST in Meridian in October. The deadline to submit applications to POST is the first week in September.

Please visit the city website at http://www.cdaid.org/ to obtain applications on line or visit the Human Resources Department at City Hall located at 710Mullan Ave.

Fallen Heroes Plaza

On Saturday July 11th at 12:00 noon the public is invited to attend a dedication ceremony for the Fallen Heroes Memorial Plaza located in Cherry Hill Park. This impressive memorial is a project sponsored by the Coeur d’Alene Rotary Club and the Coeur d’Alene Parks Foundation. These organizations as well as the Coeur d’Alene Police and Fire Department have participated in fundraising efforts to complete the Memorial Plaza.

The public has an opportunity to purchase an engraved brick in time for the ceremony if their order is received by June 30th. Brick pavers will continue to be available for naming opportunities in the future.

The Fallen Heroes Plaza site is linked with the 911 memorial Playground to emphasize the community service nature of law enforcement and firefighting.
The Memorial hosts five sculptures of public safety officers which are twelve feet high. The sculptures, designed by regional artist Brian M. Schmid, will stand in various poses honoring their fallen comrades; as represented by a vacant sculpture site. They are dedicated to Idaho firefighters and law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty throughout Idaho’s history. They shall not be forgotten.


A steel artifact from the World Trade Center in New York is anchored in a basalt column at one entrance to the memorial. Coeur d’Alene Fire Department commissioned two tall basalt columns that represent the Twin Towers.

Fire and Police Honor Guards will kick off the ceremony followed by a speech from Mayor Bloem, Police Chief Wayne Longo, Fire Chief Kenny Gabriel, and Steve Roberge from Coeur d’Alene Rotary.


The festivities start in the morning with the Parks Day celebration. A free breakfast will be served at 8:00am at Shadduck Lane Park. After the memorial dedication a free lunch will be served to the public at Cherry Hill Park. These events are sponsored by the Parks Foundation. To learn more about how to make a donation or place an order for a naming opportunity visit our website at http://www.cdapolice.org/

Coeur d’Alene Police Captain Steve Childers stated “I appreciate the partnership of public safety officials, our community service groups and individual donors in our community who continue to work together on this important memorial. Please plan on attending this event.”

For a Fallen Heroes Plaza click here. For a Parks Day celebration brochure click here.

City Achievement Awards Announced

In a letter from the Association of Idaho Cities' (AIC) Andy Bourne, we were told that the city’s application for the “Prescription Medication Turn In Program” had been selected for the AIC’s City Achievement Award, and the application for “Arts Master Plan” had been awarded an honorable mention.


The Cd'A Police Department, in conjunction with the Enough is Enough Committee, created the prescription medication turn-in program. This program has been hugely successful and has resulted in the collection of garbage cans full of unneeded and expired medications. The brainchild of Chief Longo, the program has gained much local attention, and most surrounding communities are following suit with programs of their own. After receiving state level-interest, Chief Longo was invited to participate on a Boise State University panel (by teleconference) to share the city's program with a statewide audience. This program promotes public safety by eliminating unnecessary drugs and helps protect the environment because the drugs are safely incinerated.

New Policy at City Beach Helps Ensure Safety

When City Beach opens this Wednesday, a new policy addressing Day Camps will be in effect. Goals of the new policy are to: enhance the comfort and enjoyment of the beach experience for everyone, to maximize city resources, and to help ensure the safety of day camp participants and other beach patrons. Regular beach supervision hours are from 11:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., weather permitting. During these hours, lifeguards are on duty, continuously and every possible effort will be made to provide adequate protection for the swimming public.

Day camps pose a special challenge, and are defined as any group of ten (10) or more children swimming or otherwise using the lifeguarded area of City Beach. To maximize the safety of day camp participants or other beach users, the ratio of supervisors/camp staff to children must not exceed 10 children for each supervisor, and a minimum of two staff must always be present, regardless of the number of campers.

Camp staff/supervisors must be within 10 feet of the children whenever the children are near or in the water and must be actively supervising the children by watching for safety risks to the children. Camp staff/supervisors must establish physical boundaries for the children to play in. The boundary should be large enough to allow the children a sufficient play area while keeping the group contained so that camp staff/supervisors can monitor the safety of the children.

Prior to swimming or otherwise using the beach, the day camp staff and participants must meet with a Lifeguard, if one is on duty, to discuss the boundaries established by the camp staff/supervisors, the number of children and camp staff/counselors and safe use of the beach and swim area. Any day camp not following the requirements of this policy may not use the lifeguarded portion of City Beach. City lifeguards are authorized to enforce the requirements of this policy and may remove any day camp violating the provisions of this policy from the lifeguarded area of City Beach.

We ask that you provide your child with a life jacket if he/she is a non-swimmer. Our full-time lifeguards are American Red Cross Lifeguard training certified and certified through the United States Lifesaving Association. For more information, please contact the Recreation Department at 769-2250.

Water Conservation Efforts Save Water and Money

By Jim Markley, P.E., Water Superintendent

The amount of water used in Coeur d’Alene increases dramatically during the summer. The bulk of this increase is due to irrigation, and all of it comes from the Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer. How much water is in the Rathdrum Prairie aquifer? Is there plenty of water or are we running out of it? Is there enough water so we can be wasteful in our use of water for irrigation? The experts are divided on the answers to these questions and the fact is that although there are many estimates, there is no generally accepted flow rate for the aquifer. Currently a bi-state study is underway that will increase our understanding of the aquifer and its capacity. Even though we don’t know exact numbers for the size of the aquifer, we do know that the region has experienced considerable growth during the last several years and that as the population has grown, so has the demand for irrigation water.

Having said these things, is it in our personal interests to limit our use of water for irrigation? Should we work on eliminating wasteful watering practices? The answer to both of these questions is: yes. We should at the very least take the simple measures available that minimize the amount of water used for irrigation.

Consider the following:

Over-watering your lawn will not improve the quality of the turf. In fact it can make the grass susceptible to disease and can actually promote weed growth. People tend to water too often and too much. (For residential lawns, daily watering is not required. Also, lawns only need between 1 and 2 inches of water per week- including rainfall).

Over-watering of lawns increases the runoff of pesticides and herbicides into the streets and the storm sewers. This in turn lowers the water quality of our lakes and rivers.

By including landscaping that requires less water to maintain (such as bark, shrubs, and drought resistant plants), you can not only lessen your need for water but also have a more varied and beautiful landscape.

If your sprinklers are poorly adjusted and you are watering the street, you are paying for water without receiving any benefit.

Watering during the heat of the day and when it is windy increases evaporation. You are paying for water that doesn’t moisten your lawn’s roots and again you are not getting the full benefit of the water you are buying. Evening or early morning watering is more efficient.

Increased water demand creates a need for additional wells. The customers ultimately pay for the operation and maintenance of new facilities.

And last but not least...

Minimizing the amount of water needed for irrigation can save you money. Most customers’ consumption of water increases dramatically during the summer. So do their utility bills.

By following these simple measures you can minimize wasteful watering practices during the summer without negatively impacting either your lawn or your bank account. For more information, please call the Water Department.

Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Seeks Community Help

Since September 11th, 2001, fire and emergency service departments all across the nation are struggling with increasing demands for service coupled with reduced funding. In order to respond to these increasing demands and provide more services to our community, the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department has established a Fire Corps program and is seeking volunteers to help.

Fire Corps creates opportunities for citizens to give back to their community by providing non-emergency assistance to the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department. From creating web sites to promoting life and fire safety education, you can help your community become safer and better prepared for natural disasters, terrorists threats and other emergencies.

“Volunteers are the back bone of the modern Fire Service. Without their service and dedication, the fire service would not be where it is today.” Kenneth Gabriel - Fire Chief, Coeur d’Alene Fire Department

Fire Corps, a component of the Department of Homeland Security’s Citizen Corps program, is a national grassroots effort to increase the capacity of volunteer, career and combination fire and EMS departments through the use of community volunteers. Fire Corps provides resources for departments to utilize volunteers in non-emergency roles so they can develop, implement, and sustain programs and services that will help the department meet the needs of the community.

For more information or to become a Fire Corps volunteer, contact our Fire Corps coordinator retired Fire Chief Jim Miller at jdmill911@aol.com or visit the new Fire and Police Sub Station in the park at the Ironman on June 21st or at the 4th of July celebration.

Update on Rape Investigation

Coeur d’Alene Police are investigating tips on the rape as they come in from the public. Detectives learned of an attempted burglary at 12:39am on 060509 that was reported by an older female who lives in the 1100 block of Pennsylvania Ave. The female stated she was watching television in her living room. She got up and walked into the kitchen and observed what she believed to be the legs of a male climbing through her kitchen window. She yelled to her husband who was sleeping in the next room. He immediately came to her aide and the suspect fled.

At 12:42 am the police department received the report of a prowler in the 700 block of N. 11th. This area is very close to the location of the attempted burglary. The female victim reported she saw a male peaking through her window. Officers responded and were unable to locate the male.

Kootenai County Sheriff’s Department is investigating a rape that occurred earlier in the evening on 060509 in the area of Ponderosa Golf Course. City and County Detectives are sharing information and tips in order to determine if the incidents are related.

Anyone with any information on these crimes is asked to call Coeur d’Alene Police at 769-2320.

Children's Author, Game Day at Library in June

A popular children’s author and poet and more Game Days are on the schedule for June at the Coeur d’Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave.
Kenn Nesbitt, the Northwest’s funniest author/poet will be on hand Thursday, June, 19, to help the library kick off its Summer Reading Program, “Be Creative @ Your Library.” The free presentation will be at 1 p.m. in the library’s Community Room.
Nesbitt, a Spokane resident, is the author of several collections of funny poetry for kids, including his latest, “My Hippo Has the Hiccups” and “Revenge of the Lunch Ladies.” His poetry has appeared in many bestselling anthologies, including every book in the popular Kids Pick the Funniest Poems series, and anthologies from Scholastic with nearly 2 million copies in print.
His website, poetry4kids.com, is one of the most popular children’s poetry websites on the Internet.
Nesbitt will also be a the Post Falls Library, 821 N. Spokane St., on Wednesday, June 24, 6:30-7:30 p.m., as part of Post Falls’ Summer Reading activities.
And it’s Wii, Wii, Wii all the way to the library on Friday, June 19, for the next session of Game Day at the library. Teens and tweens are invited to come to the Community Room 2-4 p.m. for interactive games using the library’s Wii game systems and Nintendo DS handhelds. Participants can also bring in their wireless-equipped laptops and access the library’s free WiFi.
Snacks and beverages are provided.
Game Days for the rest of the summer will be Fridays, 2-4 p.m. on July 17 and 31, and Aug. 31. Special “Bring-An-Adult” evening of Game Day will be offered at the library on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 6-8 p.m.
Game Day at the library is made possible by a grant from the Wal-Mart Foundation.
More news and information about the Coeur d’Alene Public Library is available online at http://www.cdalibrary.org/.

H1N1 Virus Still Present in Panhandle

The Idaho State Laboratory confirmed the fourth and fifth cases of Novel H1N1 (swine) influenza in the five northern counties this week, reinforcing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s message that the virus continues to spread.
The latest cases are in women in their 20s. Both are recovering without hospitalization. One of the women lives in Kootenai County and recently traveled to Seattle. The other is a visitor to Bonners Ferry. She is isolating herself until she’s no longer contagious.
Panhandle Health District (PHD) is monitoring both patients’ contacts for signs of flu symptoms and is working with the medical community and local governments to control spread as much as possible.
Three previous cases of H1N1 flu were in Kootenai County. They were unrelated and all have recovered without complications.
“Flu-prevention techniques should become a lifelong habit with all of us,” said Lora Whalen, director of Family and Community Health for the Panhandle Health District. “Washing hands well and often, staying home when you’re sick, covering your cough and sneeze—those practices help protect you and everyone else from H1N1, but also from many other illnesses.”
H1N1 symptoms include:

► Fever
► Sore throat
► Cough
► Body aches
► Headache
► Chills
► Fatigue
PHD advises that anyone with particularly the first three symptoms stay home and keep their distance—three to six feet—from other people for seven days or until the symptoms end, whichever is longer. People should call a health care provider if symptoms become unmanageable.
Health authorities believe H1N1 spreads through the air like the seasonal flu. Because H1N1 is a new virus, people have little to no immunity to it. Symptoms, too, are similar to the seasonal flu. Only a test can identify the virus causing the illness.
No vaccine is available yet to prevent catching the new virus. The process to develop an effective vaccine takes six to nine months from the time the virus is first identified.
Idaho so far has been spared the H1N1 spread that many states have experienced and none of its cases have required hospitalization. But health officials know continued vigilance on their part and the public’s is important.

This information has been posted in cooperation with the Panhandle Health District and the North Idaho Public Information Network.

What's Happening at the Library

For a video update on the start of summer at the Coeur d'Alene Public Library click on the logo or visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEXoNJA2aUI

More news on the library can be found online at http://www.cdalibrary.org/.

Thanks to Jeff Crowe and CDATV Channel 19 for this video! Be sure to check out Channel 19 for live and recorded meeting coverage and useful information on city and regional activities..

Cd’A Police Submit For Byrne (JAG) Grant

The Coeur d’Alene Police Department have submitted an application for the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program Local Solicitation grant for fiscal year 2009. The Coeur d'Alene Police Department is eligible for $76,669 in federal money. The grant is under the Department of Justice. The Justice Department's mission is to assist state, local, and tribal efforts to prevent or reduce crime and violence. The notice came out on May 22, 2009 with the deadline being July 9, 2009.

Cd’A Police plan to use the allotted funds to aid in the “P25” (narrow band) compliance requirements for our agency. A federal mandate was put onto emergency services to change to a digital narrow band frequency to better aid in technology and interoperability with various jurisdictions and disciplines. The Police Department has been hard at work achieving this compliance and working closely with Kootenai County. However, with the change in frequencies comes a change in hardware and software needs. These costs have come up to about $500,000.

The Police Department and Kootenai County are using some other grant money for a partial funding of the program. This money could be used to further our compliance by allowing the purchase of up to 23 new portable radios for first responding officers.

There is no match to the grant.

For additional information on this grant, please contact Sergeant Bill Tilson at Cd’A PD at 769-2320.

Report of Rape

On June 5th at 2:07 am Coeur d’Alene Police responded to the 1100 block of Harrison Ave. for the report of a rape that had just occurred. The 26 year old female victim reported she went outside of her residence to smoke a cigarette and as she was about to go back inside she was grabbed from behind by a male suspect.

The victim was physically taken inside of the residence and sexually assaulted. The suspect then fled the scene. The victim described her attacker as a white male, 27 to 32 years of age, 6’3 to 6’4, 190 lbs. with a very white complexion, brown hair that was a short style but thicker on top, blue eyes, wearing a stripped (vertically) light blue and white shirt, khaki colored shorts, and white tennis shoes.

Detectives are continuing their investigation. There is no further information at this time and no composite drawing. If anyone has any information on this crime they are asked to call Coeur d’Alene Police at 769-2320.

Crime Stoppers - Cash Reward

Crime Stoppers of the Inland Northwest is offering a cash reward for information leading to the arrest of Eli C.Skalak. Skalak is wanted on a warrant for burglary that occurred on 060109 in which the homeowner shot suspect Shea Crump. In an agreement Crimestoppers has with Lamar Outdoor, a Spokane based billboard company, Eli will be featured on the company’s digital billboards. Attached to this release is a photo of Eli Skalak.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts asked to call Crime Stoppers of the Inland Northwest at 667-2111, or (800) 222-TIPS. Callers are asked to use a code name or number and do not have to use their own name to be eligible for a reward.

Sorensen Second Graders Donate Their Book to Library

Students in Scott DuCoeur’s Second Grade class at the Sorensen Magnet School, took time out from the school’s Field Day activities to present a copy of “Juggling for Jupiter,” to Bette Ammon, Coeur d’Alene Public Library Director. The students created and sold copies of the book to raise money for a school in Africa.

A book created and marketed by a class of Coeur d’Alene second-graders will have a positive impact on a school in Africa.
Scott DuCoeur’s class at the Sorensen Magnet School, took time out from their school’s annual Field Day Thursday, June 4, to present a copy of their book, “Juggling for Jupiter,” to Coeur d’Alene Public Library Director Bette Ammon.
Ammon said the book will be added to the collection so it can be enjoyed in the Seagrave Children’s Library.
DuCoeur said the class was formed into teams to create the book. Teams were assigned the duties of writing, illustrating, cover art, binding and sales. The book was sold at the Farmers’ Market and generated nearly $600 in revenue.
Inspired by the Masai Dancers that visited Sorensen earlier this year, proceeds from the book are going to help the Mountain View Community Center and School in Tanzania. The African school has about 100 students, one teacher and no desks.
DuCoeur said the money raised by the book can purchase about 18 desks.
He said the project was assisted by a parent-advisor, Sharalee Howard.More news and information about the Coeur d’Alene Public Library is available online at www.cdalibrary.org.

City Seeks Members to Serve on Committee

Due to the increased interest in public use of open space and the generous contributions of property to the City of Coeur d’Alene, the city is seeking members to serve on a seven-member committee, appointed by Mayor and Council, which is responsible for creating open space management guidelines. These guidelines will include how to acquire and preserve open space. They will also be reviewing all of the city’s open space acreage.



Specific projects of the committee will be to review and make recommendations for the recent Fernan Hill acquisition. Members will also interact with Urban Forestry Committee members on the Veterans Centennial Park and Arboretum, as well as work with various city council subcommittees. Doug Eastwood, Parks Director, and Mike Kempton, Parks Lead Worker, will be the committee’s liaisons.



The committee, which will be named by appointed committee members themselves, will meet at least once a month, and will probably meet more than once a month as it is getting started. For more information about the committee, please contact Doug Eastwood at 769-2252.



For an application, please contact Victoria Bruno at 769-2204 (or click on this link).

Water Rate Increase Effective June 1, 2009

City of Coeur d'Alene monthly water consumption user fees increased June 1, 2009. User rates have been programmed to increase annually June 01, 2008 through June 1, 2011. The second annual rate increase is based on the rate study conducted on behalf of the City of Coeur d'Alene in 2008 to determine the necessary cash flow required to pay for the costs of operation, maintenance, equipment replacement, and planned capital improvement projects.

Single-family residential rates will increase from .65 cents to .67 cents per thousand gallons up to 30,000 gallons per month. Any residential consumption over 30,000 gallons in a month period will be assessed at .97 per thousand gallons. Non-residential rates will increase from .57 cents per thousand gallons to .59 cents per thousand gallons, with irrigation only accounts from .75 cents per thousand gallons to .78 cents. Please visit the city's website at www.cdaid.org, for a complete rate schedule and conservation tips, or call (208) 769-2227 for more information.

Traffic Alert for Saturday, June 6th

There will be a "Running into Fun" run held this coming Saturday, June 6th in the City Park and Fortgrounds area. The event is a short fun run for children. The route is from City Park along West Lakeshore to the end of Rosenberry (Dike Road) and back. These streets will be closed during the event. Be alert for runners from 9:30 am until 11:30 am.

Traffic Alert

On Thursday, 6/4/09 and Friday, 6/5/09 5th Street will be closed between Lakeside Ave and Coeur d’Alene for the replacement of a sanitary sewer manhole. For additional information, contact Utility Project Manager, Jim Dunn at 769-2278.

Specialized Needs Recreation Presents Camp Allstars "Summer Break" Day Camp!

Specialized Needs Recreation (SNR) is holding Camp Allstars “Summer Break” Day Camp, June 15th through August 21st at 1323 Sherman Avenue, Suite E in Coeur d’Alene. Camp is filled with 6 hours of meaningful and memorable activities such as community outings, crafts, and games. The day camp is provided for youth, ages 4 to 21, who have special needs.

Camp is held from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. The cost is $12.00 a day and some scholarships are available. Transportation is provided from the Trading Company (old Tidyman’s) in Post Falls. Morning pick up will be at 8:30 a.m. and afternoon drop offs will be at 3:30 p.m.

Unfortunately SNR is not able to provide 1:1 assistance, but individuals who require 1:1 assistance are still encouraged to join us with their care provider or assistant.

If you would like more information about Camp Allstars or if you would like to register your child, please call Angie Goucher at 755-6781.

Specialized Needs Recreation is a non-profit organization that provides recreational opportunities for youth and adults who have developmental disabilities. Visit us on our website at www.snr.bz.

Burglary suspect shot

For Immediate Release
June 2, 2009
Contact: Sgt. Christie Wood
(208) 769-2320



Chief Wayne M. Longo
To: Media


Coeur d'Alene Police Department
We serve with pride, dedication, and excellence





Report # 09C15138
Date of incident: 060109
Time incident reported: 11:40 pm
Location: 1100 Block of Margaret Ave.

On 060109 at 11:40pm Coeur d’Alene Police responded to the1100 Block of Margaret Ave. for the report of a burglary that had just occurred. The victim, 74 years of age of Coeur d’Alene reported that his dog jumped up on his bed and woke him up. The dog was shaking so he knew something was wrong. He grabbed his handgun and walked into the kitchen area. He observed his back sliding door open and two males were standing just outside of it. The victim said he yelled at the males. The victim said they turned as if they were going to come back inside of his residence after him. He fired his handgun at them striking one of the suspects in the arm. Both males fled the area and the victim called 911.

Officers arrived and began to search for the suspects. 911 were notified by Kootenai Medical Center that a male had just come into the emergency room with a gunshot wound.

Detectives were called to the scene and were later able to determine there were three suspects. The wounded suspect is Shae A. Crump, 24 years of age of Coeur d’Alene. He has charges pending for burglary. Probable cause exists for the arrest of Jake S. Smith, 18 years of age of Hayden ID, and Eli C. Skalak, 29 years of age of Coeur d’Alene. Detectives are currently obtaining warrants for their arrest. Attached to this release are photos of the two suspects still at large. ( on left side of page is Smith, right side is Skalak)


Sergeant Christie Wood
Public Information Officer
Coeur d’Alene Police Department

Citylink Bus Transfer Station Change

The Citylink northern bus transfer point in Coeur d’Alene is moving tomorrow. The old transfer point behind the cinema parking garage at Riverstone has become progressively more congested over the last couple of years, and is no longer suitable for efficient transit use. Consequently beginning at 5:40AM on Tuesday 02JUN09, Citylink Transit buses will stage at a larger site further down Riverstone Drive. The new lot is located on the south-west corner of Riverstone Drive, close to where it joins Seltice Way. This location is a two acre site which is well lit, and has space to park 35 vehicles comfortably. Starting tomorrow, all passengers bound for Post Falls, Hayden, State Line, Fernan, Coeur d’Alene and Worley, will need to catch their bus at Seltice and Riverstone.

The published departure times for these buses will remain the same.

The rural bus service to DeSmet is unaffected by this change.


Citylink Transit

Telephone: 877-941-7433 ext.7312, 7383 or 7291

e-mail citylinkmanagers@idahocitylink.com

A Visitor’s Guide to City Ordinances

By Sergeant Christie Wood
Public Information Officer
Coeur d’Alene Police Department

The Coeur d’Alene Police Department is dedicated to community service and is responsive to all citizens, business leaders, civic organizations, and visitors. Because Coeur d'Alene is a world-class resort city and people from all over the world enjoy our beautiful green parks, sparkling lakes, and community amenities, safety is our first priority and primary concern.

City ordinances are enacted to ensure that everyone can enjoy the quality of life we all value. The following are some reminders:

Dogs are not allowed in any city parks with the exception of Tubbs Hill. Allowances have been made for users of the Centennial Trail in which dogs are allowed on the concrete portion of the Coeur d’Alene City Park. Softball, baseball, and soccer fields are not exceptions. Owners are not allowed to bring their dogs to these playing fields.

Dogs must be maintained on a leash no longer than ten feet in length and the leash must be of sufficient strength to restrain the animal. The animal must be in the control of a person of sufficient age and physical ability to restrain and control the animal.

The curfew for minors is 10:30 p.m. until to 5:00 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 12:00 midnight until 5:00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Disruptive behavior includes Disturbing the Peace, Failure to Disperse, or Trespassing. City Code prohibits any person from knowingly fighting with another person in a public place within the city. Any such behavior can constitute a misdemeanor criminal offense.

Unless a parking space is otherwise designated by the city, no vehicle shall park or be allowed to remain parked longer than two (2) hours in any space in the park and recreation public parking lot. No person shall camp or sleep in the parking lot either in or near a vehicle during the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

Bicycles may not be ridden or operated on the sidewalk along Sherman Avenue and the sidewalks one block north and one block south of Sherman Avenue between 1st and 6th Streets. Bicycles are not allowed on Tubbs Hill, the City Park Slab or the Skate Park. Charges could include a $46.50 fine or misdemeanor criminal charge.

It is unlawful to operate or permit the operation of any sound amplification system on a street, highway, alley, sidewalk, parking lot, driveway, park, beach, motor vehicle or public right of way that is plainly audible at a distance of fifty feet (50’) or more by a reasonable person. It is also unlawful to alter or knowingly operate a motor vehicle with an exhaust system that has been altered or modified.

It is unlawful to ride or operate skateboards, roller skates, in-line skates, human-powered scooters or other toy vehicles on the street or sidewalk along Sherman and one block north and one block south of Sherman between 1st and 6th Streets. They are also prohibited on the band shell in the City Park, in Veteran’s Memorial Park, at the Veteran’s Memorial or on the City Park Slab. It is unlawful for any person to use, congregate, or be within the “Memorial Field Skateboard Park” or “Fort Sherman Playground Facility” one hour after sunset until 8:00 a.m., Sunday through Saturday.

Alcoholic beverages are not allowed at any time at beaches and parks. It is also unlawful for any person to throw, carry, or have in his possession any glass beverage container on any beach, or Tubbs Hill. No person shall consume any beer, wine or other alcoholic beverage or possess an open container of or containing any beer, wine or other alcoholic beverage on any public property, including public streets and alleys, within the city, or at any other place in the city, including any motor vehicle moving or stationary or any park or playfield within the limits of the city.

Dangerous fireworks are prohibited. It is unlawful for any person in the city to import, export, offer for sale, sell, possess, use, keep or store or permit the keeping or storing of any fireworks, other than non-aerial common fireworks, for any use or purpose, except for a person holding a special fireworks permit. There are no fireworks of any kind allowed in the City Park or Tubbs Hill. This includes safe and sane (e.g., sparklers).

The Police Department encourages all citizens to act safely and responsibly and to have a fun summer season.