West Bonner County Lines - July 8, 2026

Priest River Library hosting reading

PRIEST RIVER — As it was 250 years ago, the Declaration of Independence will be read across the state, including in Priest River, on July 8 — the same day as it was when the Founding Fathers first authorized the reading.

The reading will take place at 3 p.m. today, July 8, with community members reading the Declaration out loud in front of the Priest River Library, 118 Main St., Priest River.

The reading is part of a nationwide initiative with hundreds if not thousands of locations joining in simultaneously.  

"Brian Hogan has so wonderfully restored and mounted the bell to ring as they did 250 years ago calling people to listen on the streets of Philadelphia," said Meagan Mize, West Bonner Library District director.

Immediately following the reading, there will be a community conversation that all are all invited to join. 

Series hosting renowned climbers Thursday

The Priest Lake Museum’s Heritage 2026 Speakers Series starts with world-renowned climbers John Roskelley and Chris Kopczynski as they recount their early adventures on Chimney Rock and other sites on the Selkirk Crest. Come discover why John claims, “Our climb of the East face of Idaho’s Chimney Rock is why I’m alive today.” 

The program will take place at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 9, at Priest Lake Elementary School.

They met as high schoolers through the Spokane Mountaineers and became lifelong friends. Over the years of scaling the tallest and most difficult mountains, they have received international accolades for their many contributions to modern alpinism. Both are authors and engaging speakers. The museum is honored that they are sharing their Priest Lake stories.

Further information about Priest Lake Museum can be found on the web site www.priestlakemuseum.org or by calling coordinator John Renshaw at 208 627 2797.

Science program explores the secrets of longevity

Are you curious about the science of living healthier and longer?

Selkirk Alliance for Science invites you to learn tips about healthy living on Saturday, July 18, 1:30 p.m., at the Newport Library, 116 S. Washington Ave.

Kamori Cattadoris, a health coach certified by the Nutritarian Education Institute, shares the research that busts some myths and provides practical suggestions to  increase your health and life expectancy. Longevity is an increasingly urgent topic, especially since Americans’ lifespan and health have steadily worsened rather than improved in the past few decades.

Recent scientific studies (including the 2021 Global Burden of Disease Study) have thrown into question long-held views of what are actually healthy practices and habits. New studies examine sunlight exposure, the soleus calf muscle as a "second heart," and nutrient-dense dietary recommendations

This free event is also supported by the Kalispel Natural Resources Department, Responsible Growth Northeast Washington, Create Arts and Community Center, and Pend Oreille County Library District. 

A free science door prize will be awarded to one lucky attendee.