The County Lines

Sat., July 15, 2000

WASHINGTON

Adams County Othello

Because of the high number of “blue babies” in the Columbia Basin, a study to find the cause of the syndrome is being launched. The Columbia Basin Ground Water Management Area has funded the $155,000 study, as it is believed blue baby syndrome is caused by excess nitrates in water. Nitrates may keep blood cells from carrying oxygen, which can be fatal.

Ferry County Republic

The fourth quarter of 1999 showed a marked increase in the county’s retail sales after a long and steady decline. Sales tallied $3.6 million last year, compared to $3.3 million in 1998. Total sales from 1999 were down, though many see the jump in the fourth quarter as the start to something positive.

Lincoln County Davenport

County commissioners recently reimbursed the County Fair Board for repairs on the main fairground building’s roof. The $5,380 will come in handy, as funding for rural county fairs has dwindled in recent years.

Pend Oreille County Newport

Should NHS students get class credit for making espresso? School Board member Martha Nichols feels work experience at Java Junction is not credit-worthy. Board Chairman Jim Brewster stood by the job as part of the vocational program, since students learn about operating a small business and gain financial skills.

Spokane County Spokane

Holy Family Hospital will host a free adolescent support group Aug. 7, 14, 21 and 28 from 5:30-7 p.m. at the hospital. It is the only support group of its kind in Spokane for children having trouble coping with chronic illness in a family. Call 325-8716.

Stevens County Colville

The annual Colville Rendezvous egg toss will be the first weekend in August. If the winners set a new record, they receive $500. The record is 103 feet, 2 inches, set by Joe Kirpes and Nick Salina. The event is Aug. 4 at 3 p.m. in the city park.

IDAHO

Benewah County St. Maries

Jim’s Auto Repair has expanded at the request of customers, according to owner Jim Arrhenius. The shop recently added detailing to its services. Customers can choose to have their vehicles washed, buffed and waxed, and their carpets shampooed.

Bonner County Sandpoint

The annual series of Immunization Parties will be Mondays from 1-4:30 p.m. July 24 through Aug. 28. The parties are sponsored by the Sandpoint Rotary and Panhandle Health District. Activities include children’s immunization shots, face painting, cake and ice cream, fishing booths, and a chance to win a bicycle or tricycle. The events are at the Panhandle Health Building, 1020 Michigan St. No appointment necessary. Call (208) 263-5159.

Boundary County Bonners Ferry

Second Chance Animal Adoption is looking for foster homes for puppies, special need dogs and some adult dogs. Volunteers and groups are needed to walk the dogs four times a day at the City Pound, and a volunteer is needed to organize fund-raisers to build a shelter. Call Alice Miller at (208) 267-2023.

Kootenai County Harrison

Wilma Christensen was re-elected by the Idaho Association of Public Accountants as the IAPA District I director, according to member Barbara Neiwert. Christensen operates Wilma’s Accounting Service in Harrison.

Latah County Moscow

Finally Home!, a set of home buyer’s educational workshops will be from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. today at the Moscow School District Office. The seminar will have guest speakers from lending and real estate industries. Topics include preparing for home ownership, purchasing a home, foreclosure prevention and maintenance. The classes are free and lunch will be provided. To register, call (208) 746-3351 or (800) 326-4843.

Shoshone County Pinehurst

The KOA Kamp Resort swimming pool will no longer be open to the public. Feeding ducks in the KOA will no longer be allowed either. A banner was stolen from the pool area over the Fourth of July, according to Kim Jones of the KOA. She also said that if the banner is returned in usable condition, the resort may reconsider the bans.

MONTANA

Lincoln County Libby

St. John’s Lutheran Hospital’s new organization, Mourning Light, will help family members before, during and after the death of a loved one. It is making sure no patient is alone when death is near. To volunteer, call Laura Sedler at (406) 293-0108.

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