It's a magical time for the community of Sandpoint this month!

Sandpoint's Winter Carnival is celebrating its 39th year this week, and Schweitzer is getting in on the fun! The mountain resort will host a variety of parties, fireworks and a laser light show throughout this weekend (February 16-17) and next (February 22-24).

On Saturday, February 16th Schwitzer's Tap Lounge will transform into Bourbon Street for "Pardi Gras." The "pardi" will be going on all day - family friendly activities will be available during the day, follwed by live music and drink specials at night. Expect musical acts, discounted drinks, and festive masks and beads.

Then on Sunday, February 17th, Schweitzer's JR run will be converted into a giant screen for an all-ages laser and lights show (set to Pink Floyd's musical stylings for taste). Don't let the snow fool you though - things will be getting toasty with firepits and a snowbar that will serve hot drinks. Drink specials and music will follow in Taps Lounge.

Former state lawmaker Joyce Broadsword has decided to step away from her seat on the Bonner County Commission to take an administrative position with a state agency.

Broadsword announced Tuesday plans to resign from the commission, less than one month after being sworn into office.

The Bonner County Daily Bee reports that she has accepted a position as regional director with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. The regional office covers 10 northern Idaho counties.

Broadsword served four terms in the Idaho Senate and ascended to vice chair of the chamber's Health and Welfare Committee. She decided not to seek re-election last year, opting instead to run for county commissioner.

Broadsword knocked off incumbent Cornel Rasor in the Republican primary then beat independent Steve Johnson in November.

The argument is raging throughout the Inland Empire: What is the highest Gonzaga men's basketball has ever ranked?

Some swear it is No. 3, while others claim they never got higher than fourth in 2008.

See above: Gonzaga's highest ranking was not in the Dec. 8 rankings when they reached No. 4 (as was previously reported in this space), but rather in the 17th week of the 2003-2004 season.

The more you know.