St. Mary’s Health and Clearwater Valley Health have successfully completed the acquisition of Arnzen Super Drug Inc., which includes its well-established pharmacy locations in Cottonwood, Kamiah, and Orofino, Idaho. This strategic purchase marks a significant milestone for both healthcare organizations as they aim to enhance pharmacy services in the region.
Founded in **1890**, Arnzen Super Drug has provided community-focused pharmacy care for over **135 years**. The legacy established by Rod Arnzen and his dedicated team is one that St. Mary’s Health and Clearwater Valley Health are eager to honor and expand. According to **Lenne Bonner**, CEO of both organizations, “We are incredibly grateful for the foundation that Arnzen’s has established over the past 135 years.” She emphasized the commitment to continue the pharmacy’s mission of delivering essential services to the community.
Rod Arnzen expressed his support for the transition, stating, “I am so excited to see the Arnzen legacy continue forward with Kootenai Health, St. Mary’s Health, and Clearwater Valley Health.” He noted that this acquisition would ensure his patients continue to receive the exceptional care they have relied on for many years.
The pharmacies will maintain their current staff and the personalized service that patients have come to trust. Over time, the new partnership is expected to provide expanded resources and improved coordination of care. Bonner reiterated the commitment to investing in the future of local pharmacy services, saying, “Our commitment is simple: to honor what Arnzen’s has built, to support the dedicated staff who have served so faithfully, and to invest in the future.”
As the transition progresses, St. Mary’s Health and Clearwater Valley Health assure the community that there will be no disruption to patient services. Further information will be made available to the public as the integration of the pharmacies unfolds. This acquisition not only preserves a vital community resource but also aims to enhance the level of healthcare available in the region.
In related regional news, the Idaho County Commission discussed various projects during their recent meeting. The cost of completing the new county jail has increased by **$26,000**, as reported by Denis Duman. The additional funding is necessary for network equipment that will allow full operational internet service. Mike Brown, the county IT manager, indicated that essential infrastructure, including network switches and battery backup systems, is yet to be installed.
During the meeting, Mike Cook, the airport manager, highlighted the need for an independent fee estimate for a planned apron construction project. This step is required by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations to ensure the costs proposed by the winning contractor, J-U-B Engineers, are reasonable. The commission approved Cook’s request to proceed with this estimate.
Additionally, discussions took place regarding the upcoming replacement project for the Automated Weather Observing System. Cook noted that while FAA rules necessitate a cost analysis, this project might be executed in-house rather than through an external consultant.
Guy VonBargen, the road and bridges supervisor, raised concerns about inefficient telephone communications for field crews. He noted that current systems are inadequate for maintaining contact in remote areas, leading to potential operational challenges. The board agreed to explore alternative communication options, including newer technologies that could enhance service and reduce costs.
The county commissioners meet weekly on Tuesday mornings at **9:30 a.m.** at the courthouse. The discussions and decisions made during these meetings are crucial for the ongoing development and infrastructure improvements in the region.
