… that Coeur d'Alene High principal Randy Russell is going to be named officially as superintendent of the Freeman School District in Washington soon. The following announcement by Board Chair Brent Fetsch is currently on the Web page of the Freeman School District: “Our community was fortunate to have a quality pool of candidates interested in our superintendent position.  We interviewed four great finalists.  We are grateful for the participation and involvement of staff, students, and community.  Everyone’s input was very helpful.  The Board is pleased to announce that we have offered Randy Russell, currently principal of Coeur d'Alene High School, a contract for the position of Superintendent of Freeman School District.  Randy will join us at next Thursday’s board meeting.  Everyone is welcome to come and be introduced.” A Berry Picker believes that a special meeting for teachers aftere school today will address Russell's move to the Freeman School District.

Question: How would you rate the job that Randy Russell did as Coeur d'Alene High principal?

… that there may be another reason for the visit by former Secretary of State Dirk Kempthorne to North Idaho later in the week. A Berry Picker sends along a private invitation landing in some well-heeled laps to “join us for a Private Reception with our friends.” That private reception, featuring cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, will cost $100 per couple. What for? “Proceeds will go to retire Kempthoren for Governor debt incurred for the successful 2002 Election.” Observes the Berry Picker: “We’re in the midst of a dire economy in north Idaho, and he wants us to help pay off a 7-year-old campaign debt. I’m quite sure he’s been bringing in a much bigger paycheck than most people in Idaho the past several years. Chutzpah to the nth degree.” Well said. You can read the invitation for yourself here.

Question: If you have an extra $100 burning a hole in your pocket, would you spend it on cocktails & hors d’oeuvres to help Dirk Kempthorne retire his 2002 gubernatorial campaign debt?