Here's the Dec. 22, 1999, editorial that I wrote for The Spokesman-Review in wake of the unexpected death of legislative giant Jim Stoicheff, R-Sandpoint:

The 2000 Legislature is going to be a little less colorful. A little less thoughtful. A little less compassionate. A little more partisan.  State Rep. Jim Stoicheff, D-Sandpoint, won't be there to hold tempers and bad legislation in check. His unexpected death to a heart attack Saturday leaves a void. Even in recent years when the number of House Democrats dwindled to a baker's dozen, Stoicheff took the edge off bitter partisan debates. His good humor, thoughtful comments and practical approach to politics were welcomed on both sides of the aisle. ``He was one of the real personalities of the Legislature,'' said Gov. Dirk Kempthorne. ``He was colorful and tenacious in his approach, and I always saw a twinkle in his eye.'' Full editorial here.

Question: Do you remember "Stoich"?

---

---