Hauser boat

launch is now open

After months of construction, the Hauser boat launch is open again.

Kootenai County Parks and Waterways reopened the popular launch on Thursday afternoon, said Director Nick Snyder.

"As of now, the boat launch is usable," he said.

He warned that high water conditions exist, however, so folks who use it will likely get a little soaked while launching their vessels.

Snyder doesn't expect that to deter folks from using the county's most-used launch, however.

"We anticipate there will be robust use this weekend," he said.

The $300,000 construction project involved demolishing the 50-year-old launch and replacing it with an all new, concrete version, Snyder said.

He warned that some asphalt work is still needed, which will require shutting down the launch a couple days this spring.

A ribbon cutting will be scheduled soon, Snyder added.

"We are confident it will last 50 to 75 years," he said of the new facility.

Burglary suspect

pleads guilty

SANDPOINT - The son of a federal prosecutor implicated in a rash of vehicle burglaries pleaded guilty Wednesday to a reduced charge of misdemeanor theft.

Judge Eugene Marano sentenced Christopher Alan Cook to 365 days in jail with 335 days suspended. Cook was given credit for 10 days he's already served, according to court documents.

Marano also placed Cook on unsupervised probation for two years and ordered him to submit to an alcohol evaluation. Cook was apparently intoxicated when he committed the misconduct.

Cook, 22, of Dalton Gardens, was charged with burglarizing six vehicles in Sandpoint last December. Cook is the son of Nancy Cook, an assistant U.S. prosecutor in the Panhandle.

Free Ironman

seminars offered

COEUR d'ALENE - A physical therapist, swim coach and triathlon trainer is offering free training seminars this month.

Jerry White will give presentations on training and racing, including:

* staying loose on the bike

* faster transitions without tying up

* maximum shoulder flexibility

* recovery and deep sleep

* less time to race effectiveness

* enhanced flexibility, during and after the events

The sessions are scheduled Thursday, April 14 , noon to 1 p.m., and 1-2 p.m.; Thursday, April 21, 4-5 p.m. and 5-6 p.m.; Thursday, April 28, 7-8 p.m.

"He welcomes you to come and view and experience revolutionary training and recovery concepts," according to a press release. "Learn unique techniques for triathlon training, performance, and recovery."

They will be held at D & L Associates, 1121 Sherman Ave.

Reservations are recommended. Call 676-9912 until 3 p.m., or evenings (509) 496-2664.