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Clearwater Tribune

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Clearwater Tribune

The Clearwater Tribune is the official county newspaper of beautiful Clearwater County, located in north-central Idaho.

We at the Clearwater Tribune are dedicated to providing interesting, informative hometown news.

05/07/2026

OCI princesses crowned
By Tammy Gilmer
The 2026 Orofino Lumberjack Days Royalty Princess Bethany Bushey and Princess Hadlei Pederson were crowned Sunday, May 3.
Both young ladies are Juniors at Orofino Junior Senior High School.
Bethany’s parents are Brent and Bridjett Bushey.
Hadlei’s parents are Gary and Danelle Pederson.
The girls will soon be attending area parades and performing duties of being ambassadors of Orofino.

04/29/2026

Congratulations to the 2026 Orofino Celebrations Inc. Lumberjack Days Grand Marshals, Jeannie and Neal Johnson. This year’s theme is “Rooted in Freedom, Built on Grit”. Lumberjack Days and the Clearwater County Fair are set for Sept. 17-20. Photo by Shanna Schwartz/SS Reflections Photography

04/01/2026

Vacation Guide special edition
By Marcie Stanton
The Clearwater Tribune’s Vacation Guide special edition was inserted in the March 25 issues of the paper, and also distributed to additional locations throughout the area.
If you didn’t receive a copy and would like one, or would like extra copies, call us at the Tribune, 208-476-4571, and we’ll make sure to get you one, or as many as you’d like!
This year’s edition has beautiful photos showcasing the wonders of the area by local talented photographers, feature articles highlighting some of the recreating opportunities here, the animals that call Idaho home, packing into the mountains on mules in the area’s breathtaking backcountry, and an extra special part of the Guide this year, the photos and articles on the historic log drives and wanigan.
This year is the 55th anniversary of the last log drive. When I asked Tammy Gilmer, Executive Director of the Clearwater Historical Museum, if she would be up to doing some features on the log drives, she thankfully agreed to this “adventure”.
The articles and photos are a historical work of wonder to me. The log drives and wanigan have always held a special place of fascination for me, as I know they do for many.
Thank you to Tammy for the information and photos of these popular subjects, Gaylon Warford, who was a part of many of the log drives, for agreeing to have a feature article printed, showcasing his memories, and to the other contributors of this year’s special, the photos and articles, and to our valued advertisers. Without our exceptional advertisers’ support, we would not have the privilege of publishing these special editions.
We wouldn’t want to live, play or publish in any other place.

You can view the Clearwater Tribune 2026 Vacation Guide electronic edition here:
https://www.clearwatertribune.com/special/clearwater-tribune-vacation-guide-2026/page_47bef43b-ba48-5cd7-b6bd-1e300a642052.html

03/18/2026

TLC Foundation scholarship
By Robin Roughton
The TLC Foundation scholarship is offering one non-traditional student who resides in the Clearwater County, Idaho or surrounding area.
One non-recurring student scholarship for up to $1000 will be awarded for 2026. You can request an application by calling 2084001364 or email [email protected]
Definition of a nontraditional student is categorized as anyone who meets at least one of the following: an individual who delayed post-secondary education for a minimum of one year after high school, works fulltime (35 hours or more per week) while going to college, has dependents other than a spouse (children or caregiver for family members), single parent (either not married or married but separated), classified as independent in determining eligibility for financial aid, does not have a high school diploma (completed high school with a GED or did not complete high school).

03/14/2026

Clearwater County Commissioners declare emergency state following slides and flooding
The Clearwater County Commissioners, working with Emergency Management Coordinator Don Gardner, announced Saturday a state of emergency for the county due to the rock slides and flooding that have occurred throughout the county and several locations on U.S. Highway 12. Multiple landslides, water over roads and highways, rocks and downed trees have been the result of the Atmospheric River blasting the area with rain over the last few days.
U.S. Highway 12, Grangemont Road, Sunnyside, Bobbitt Bench, multiple county roads and residential areas have suffered rock slides and flooding from the results of the large amount of rainfall.
A landslide east of the Orofino Bridge on U.S. 12 was reported Friday evening, with Highway 12 being closed in both directions as the result of the slides.
The City of Orofino Public Works crews have been working around the clock, along with local contractors and private individuals and the Idaho Transportation Department, clearing plugged culverts, diverting flood waters and clearing mud and rock slides. According to the City of Orofino’s page, “We are aware of current flooding conditions affecting parts of our community. Our Public Works crew is actively on-site working to improve drainage however they can. The drainage system is currently at capacity and overflowing due to the volume of water. Our team is monitoring the situation closely. Report any emergencies to the City and please stay safe.”
The Clearwater River has come up several feet in the last two days, but is not forecasted to cause any flooding. The Orofino gauge was at 5.78 feet Thursday at 1:45 p.m., 8.49 feet at 6:15 Friday and was expected to crest at 11 p.m. this Saturday at 13.96 feet. Flood Action stage at the Orofino gauge is 16 feet.
Creeks and runoff from the canyon and hills are the issues to be dealt with currently. Motorists are urged to use caution and watch for slides, rocks and water across the roadways.
National Weather Service-Missoula reported these totals:
Rain
Orofino (Dworshak National Fish Hatchery): 24 hours-1.12 inches, 72 hours-2.17 inches
Pierce Ranger Station: 24 hours-1.1 inches, 72 hours--2.5 inches
Weippe: 24 hours-0.45 inches, 72 hours--0.8 inches
Elk River: 24 hours-1.7 inches, 72 hours-3.5 inches
Snow
Elk Butte SNOTEL, about 3,000 feet higher than Elk River, 10 inches Thursday by 7 p.m. and another inch Friday.
Submit your photos
Have a flooding or rock slide picture you’d like to share with the Clearwater Tribune? E-mail them to [email protected] and we will include them in the paper.

03/11/2026

Rooted in Freedom, Built on Grit
Lumberjack Days and Clearwater County Fair select this year’s theme
By Tammy Gilmer
OCI Secretary/Manager
Orofino Celebrations, Inc. (OCI) and the Clearwater County Fair Board have selected the theme for the 2026 Orofino Lumberjack Days and Clearwater Co. Fair.
To keep with the America 250 celebration, the theme selected will be “Rooted in Freedom, Built on Grit.”
The dates for that weekend are Sept. 17 through Sept. 20.

02/19/2026

Orofino High School Cheer wins Districts for 6th straight year!
By Nicole Turcott
Orofino High School Cheer Coach
The Orofino High School cheer team has done it again—bringing home a District Championship title for the sixth year in a row!
With outstanding performances across multiple categories, the Maniacs proved once again that their hard work, dedication, and school pride continue to set the standard.
At this year’s district competition, Orofino Cheer earned:
1st Place – Coed Show
1st Place – Pom
1st Place – Sideline
With these first-place finishes, the team officially qualified for the 2026 State Championships, which will be held in Idaho Falls on Feb. 28.
This incredible accomplishment reflects the countless hours the team has put into practicing routines, perfecting skills, and representing Orofino with pride.
Their strong teamwork, energy, and determination were on full display, and their district sweep is something the entire community can celebrate.
Congratulations to the Orofino High School cheerleaders and coaches on another amazing season. The Maniac community is proud—and ready to cheer them on as they head to State!
Go Maniacs! Thank you!

02/12/2026

Tatym Turcott with the first buttercup of the year. She found the buttercup while walking the trails with her dad, Larry, on Friday, Feb 6. This warmer than usual weather has things blooming early! Photo by Larry Turcott

02/04/2026

The Edge reopens this weekend after major
remodel and transformation
After months of anticipation and planning, The Edge, 625 Main Street, Orofino, is officially reopening its doors this weekend. The community is invited back into a space that has been thoughtfully reimagined from the ground up.
What began as a remodel quickly evolved into a full transformation. While honoring the foundation laid by previous owners (Roy Clay with Sandy and Mike Clay), the team behind The Edge saw an opportunity to elevate the experience while keeping the restaurant warm, inviting, and familiar to longtime guests.The result is a refined yet approachable atmosphere designed to feel both special and comfortable, a place where celebrations, casual dinners, and memorable evenings all feel right at home.
From the updated layout and design details to improved service flow and behind-the-scenes systems, every element of The Edge has been intentionally shaped to elevate the guest experience. The goal was not simply to change how the restaurant looks but to enhance how it feels, from the moment guests walk through the door to the last bite of dessert.
At the heart of the reopening is a renewed focus on hospitality. The Edge has assembled an enthusiastic opening team dedicated to delivering genuine, attentive service and creating an experience guests will want to return to again and again. “Restaurants are built by people,” said co-owner Hope Coleman. “This team is the foundation of everything we’re creating.”
The Edge will open this weekend, Thursday through Saturday, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations can be made online anytime through the website. To reserve by phone, call 208-476-7805 beginning Thursday at 3 p.m. As they get staffed up, phone availability will expand, and they appreciate your patience in the meantime.
Walk-ins are welcome as space allows, and the bar will be seated on a first-come, first-served basis with limited bar reservations available.
As The Edge opens its doors once again, the invitation is simple: come see what’s new, enjoy a great meal, and be part of the next chapter of a local favorite.

01/22/2026

Pierce Winter Festival is set this year for Friday through Sunday, February 13-15
By Greg Gerot, Mayor
Again this year the Pierce Winter Festival is coordinating with the Bald Mountain Ski Hill Auction Dinner at the Pierce Community Center. This benefit dinner features a fine Prime Rib dinner and a lively, exciting auction from 5 to 7 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day.
We are thankful for our ski hill and feel the Pierce Winter Festival events leading up to the dinner reflects our partnership and emphasis on winter fun.
Again, Friday night will be a hot topic, featuring fire pits on Main Street and oﬃcial lighting at 5:30.
This year’s theme, “Fire & Ice” starts with Fire Friday night featuring the band “Step Brothers”. They provide a “hot” ambience for the Friday night kickoﬀ.
Also, at 5:30 p.m. is featured a family sledding party, gathering at New Life Fellowship with fire and hot cocoa and cookies. Sleds will be provided, or bring your own!
Back on Main Street, at 6 p.m., a Pool Tournament commences at “The Flame”, another hot spot in town.
Sign up starts at 5 p.m. with limited entry $20, call your pocket, double elimination. Cash prizes for winners.
At 7:30 p.m. our “Light Parade” will take place and cash prizes to best entries given. This is always fun and rolls us into the band’s opening at 8 p.m.
Don’t miss out! Friday night will facilitate a toasty gathering on Main Street!
If Friday is our “Fire”, Saturday is our “Ice” featuring the “Ice Man” relay from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
This is a great event including snow shoeing, sledding, running and jumping into Orofino Creek. At 3 p.m. is the COLD PLUNGE! With prizes for the best costume and a Parade of Plungers on Main Street beforehand. Extreme Fun and a great show!
Saturday also features lots for kids and family provided by Main Street businesses.
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Elk Snout will feature cookie decorating.
The Goldrush will feature a craft celebrating the 250th year anniversary of The United States.
ICCU will feature a Kids Snow Globe Craft and Family Winter Wonderland Photo Station.
Add in the pie eating contest at The Goldrush at 2:30 p.m. and the Open Mic at Studio 205 at 7 p.m. and then a free night on the town, should make for a perfect weekend!
To support Winter Fest this year we will be having our fabulous Grand Prize drawing, special Fire and Ice Mugs (with hot drinks) and beanies for sale. You can buy tickets for the grand prize at local Pierce businesses.
Check out the Pierce Winter Festival FaceBook page for updated information. As well as the City of Pierce’s FaceBook page.

01/07/2026

FIRST BABY OF 2026 FOR CVH—Congratulations to Brianna Tedor and Roy Solano, of Kamiah, on the birth of their daughter, Renleigh Michelle Solano, born Monday, Jan. 5, 2026 at 11:14 p.m. at Clearwater Valley Hospital (CVH), Orofino. Renleigh, the first baby of 2026 to be born at Clearwater Valley Hospital, weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces and measured 20.5 inches. She joins an older brother, Roy Solano, 9, and a sister, Reign Solano, 7. Attending physician was Dr. Rebecca Katzman.

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161 Main Street
Orofino, ID
83544

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Monday	8am - 5pm
Tuesday	8am - 5pm
Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	9am - 5pm

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http://www.clearwatertribune.com/

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