Reader december24 2015

READER

December 24, 2015 / FREE / Vol. 12 Issue 49

y r r e M ! s a m Christ

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BREWERY & BEER HALL 220 Cedar St. 209-6700

(wo)MAN

Ben Olson on the street compiled by

Do you like when it dumps this much snow, or is it more of a chore for you?

“I like it. It’s pretty. I’m lucky, though, because my dad plows my driveway for me.”

Jade Dunn Rago Nurse Upper Pack River

“I’m a skier and a snowmobiler, so I like it a lot.”

Stacey Ward Naples

“I love it, as long as the sun comes out. It’s a chore, but it’s good exercise.”

Corrina Barrett Owner of Xhale Pilates Studio Newport, Wash.

“You can NEVER have too much snow, kids!”

Frosty the Snowman Part time snowman, part time puddle of water (seasonal) Your front yard

“Snow? You call this snow?

This is a light dusting.”

Jack London Author, adventurer, oyster pirate, journalist Alaska, San Francisco, Sonoma County, Calif.

“Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.”

Kris Kringle Giver of toys and good will Sleigh Driver Head Elf North Pole

DEAR READERS,

We’d like to wish you all a merry Christmas with this, our 49th issue since coming back from the dead last January.

We certainly could not have made it without the support of our advertisers. As this is a free publication, the only money we generate comes from the ads we sell.

Without these businesses believing in us, there would be no Reader.

That being said, without providing inticing editorial content, nobody would read the Reader, and nobody would advertise either, so special thanks goes out to my editor Cameron Rasmusson, and to all the regular contributors and columnists that write for us. This is a lot of work, folks, but it’s always worth it.

Also, I’d also like to thank the original founders of the Reader, Zach Hagadone, John Reuter and Chris DeCleur, who laid the foundation for seven years before I picked this rag up and started publishing it again.

I wish you all the best this holiday season, and am grateful for you bringing us into your lives again. This has been one of the best years of my life, and I can only hope 2016 is even better. Thanks!

-Ben Olson, Publisher

What your college student really wants for Christmas: a last-minute gift guide

By Melannie Wurm Reader Contributor We loved Christmas when we were kids. We really did. We loved the craft fairs and cookie making and gift shopping. We loved listening to carols and making snowmen. We still like all that stuff, but we’ve just spent an entire semester running around frantically reading, writing and shoveling cookies down our throats to calm the anxiety. We haven’t slept for seven hours straight since August. The last thing we want is a hectic holiday schedule. We want to sleep for 10 hours, eat a homecooked meal and be alone for a few precious minutes. We don’t need the perfect tree or the perfect gift. What we need is a break from the rapid-fire stress of college. It is the season of peace and there is nothing we want more.

Remember when you gave us socks for Christmas and we cried? Well, those days are over. Please get us socks. We need socks. Every pair we have is full of holes and, for that matter, we haven’t seen a real matching pair in months.

Coffee. It doesn’t really matter if it comes in the form of a Starbucks gift card, a French press or those little packets of instant coffee that you mix with hot water. As long as it has caffeine, we will be eternally grateful.

Sometimes the best gift can be a break from those questions. You know which ones I mean. “Why don’t you have a boyfriend?” “Whatever happened to John? He was perfect!” “Why didn’t you pick a major with a better

employment outlook?” “Have you considered putting a little extra effort into your classes?”

Trust me, we think about these things all the time. We second-guess our ability to find a significant other, get good grades and succeed in life on a daily basis. We wonder if we are good enough, and when you ask us these things, it sounds like our family has been wondering the same. So give us a break, just for the day. We promise we are doing our best not to disappoint you. Christmas should be a day to spend with family, drink eggnog and forget about our recent failures.

On the other hand, we’re not heartless hateful beings (in general). We want to talk. We want to tell you about our lives. It can be hard to find common ground for discussion without causing an argument, but it’s worth the effort. Ask us to tell you about our friends, most of whom you have never met. Ask us if we have any funny stories (we do). Ask us what presidential candidate we prefer and please, please, don’t get mad if our party affiliation has changed since leaving home. We know we are loved, but asking us questions goes a long way toward proving something almost as important: that you are interested in who we are as imperfect unique human beings.

Finally, we need a lock of your hair to wear around our necks and touch lovingly when we feel lonely. It will be a comfort and a reminder of home.

Just kidding. Unless that’s your family’s thing, then by all means, share the hair.

READER 111 Cedar Street, Suite 9 Sandpoint, ID 83864 (208)265-9724

www.sandpointreader.com Publisher: Ben Olson ben@sandpointreader.com Editor: Cameron Rasmusson cameron@sandpointreader.com Zach Hagadone (emeritus) John Reuter (emeritus) Contributing Artists: Ben Palmer (cover), Daniel Cape, Marlin Thorman, Contributing Writers: Cameron Rasmusson, Ben Olson, Melannie Wurm, Fawn Miller, Sandy Compton, Susan Drumheller, Marcia Pilgeram, Jonnie Bradley, Submit stories to: stories@sandpointreader.com Printed weekly at: Griffin Publishing Spokane, Wash.

Subscription Price: $75 per year Advertising: Jen Landis jen@sandpointreader.com Clint Nicholson clint@keokee.com Web Content: Keokee The Sandpoint Reader is a weekly publication owned and operated by Ben Olson and Keokee. It is devoted to the arts, entertainment, politics and lifestyle in and around Sandpoint, Idaho.

We hope to provide a quality alternative by offering honest, in-depth reporting that reflects the intelligence and interests of our diverse and growing community.

The Reader is printed on recycled paper using soy-based ink.

Leftover copies are collected and recycled weekly, or burned in massive bonfires to appease the gods of journalism. Free to all, limit two copies per person.

Sandpoint Reader letter policy: The Sandpoint Reader welcomes letters to the editor on all topics.

Requirements: –No more than 500 words –Letters may not contain excessive profanity or libelous material. Please elevate the discussion.

Letters will be edited to comply with the above requirements. Opinions expressed in these pages are those of the writers, not necessarily the publishers.

Email letters to: letters@sandpointreader.com Check us out on the web at: www.sandpointreader.com Like us on Facebook.

About the Cover This week’s cover was drawn by Missoula-based artist Ben Palmer, who has come through for us on several occasions for artwork. Thanks for your work, Ben.

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COMMENTARY Dreaming with childlike wonder

By Fawn Miller Reader Contributor

“You’ve always had the power my dear, you just had to learn it for yourself.”

–Glinda the Good Witch, “Wizard of Oz”

this: til you get to the real fuel that segment to a close. In my next pact on the world. She would In my previous column, I “My dream is to travel the lights your fire, and then take a article we will begin to take love to hear your questions, discussed the importance of remoment to contemplate. action and build upon this comments, and stories, and discovering your inner dreamer world whenever I want, work In the process of fully foundation! In the meantime, invites you to experience a free - the part of you that yearns for for myself from wherever I am unpacking your “why,” you become very clear about what 90-minute discovery session! your attention and begs for you and make $100,000 a year.”

“Why?” will uncover the core values you want, visualize it daily, to breathe life into it. I hope “Because I want to expeand feelings that make up the write a personalized vision Fawn can be reached at: you have given your dreams foundation of your “why.” statement and read it often, fawn@fawnmillercoaching. some time to resurface and stir rience the richness of other cultures, experience foreign These are the major motivators unpack your “why,” and get in com some excitement in your soul. touch with your core values, www.fawnmillercoaching.

If you have, it’s time to take the lands and be able to provide for in your quest toward your demyself and my family in a way sired dream. They are the real feelings and motivators. Excom next steps! that is enjoyable and lucrative.” embers in the fire of your soul, plore like a child and find what In this article I’ll talk about “Why?” and will keep you striving and fuels your fire! understanding and building “Because it’s important to thriving when the goin’ gets Thank you for reading! your foundation to ensure that me to connect with and better tough.

To YOUR success! every step you take toward understand how other people For example, the values and your dreams is planted firmly, live, and to see the beautiful feelings that stand out to me in Fawn Miller, C.P.C. even if you can only see one and strange and breathtaking the demonstration above are: foot at a time ahead of you on magnificence of Planet Earth. I connection and understanding Fawn Miller is a Sandthe path. want to feel alive, amazed and (of other cultures and with point native and life coach The first step is to become humbled. I want to volunteer family), exploration, newness, serving people who are crystal clear about what it is and help others in need. And I adventure, appreciation, beauty, ready to jump-start their that you desire. Visualize it in want my family to experience exhilaration, aliveness, amaze- lives, connect with their your mind’s eye with as much these things as well. It’s imment, abundance, humility, passions, align with detail as possible, and imagine portant to me that they have a service, sharing, mentorship, their purpose, the feeling that you will have reverence and appreciation for giving, family and shared expe- experience true when you have achieved it. rience. What are yours? prosperity and Write a personalized statement life and for this world.”

Keep doing this exercise unAlas, I must bring this have a positive imthat declares your goal, vision and dream, and make it a daily practice of to spend a few minutes strengthening your clarity.

LETTERS • LETTERS • LETTERS • LETTERS • LETTERS • LETTERS • LETTERS • LETTERS • LETTERS • LETTERS • LE This process defines your target and creates a magnetic anchor Creative Immigration Policy... frightened that they chose to hate tion for the sufferings and tribula- alienated and alone, or wishes to suppress other’s freedom of choice people they have never met and be tions their ancestors endured. to your desires.

Dear Editor, There are still many Native or religion and wants to impose their opposed to granting them a place Once you have become I believe in very strict immiAmericans living in poverty in this own ideology can get a gun. to escape from the horrors that clear and anchored, the next gration policies. country while we look forward to Furthermore, public statements exist in their own countries. step is to connect with your I think that all people on the a Merry Christmas. made by local officials, as well I would be among the people “why.” Take a moment, if you North American continent who as by Donald Trump and othwho had to leave, along with most are decedents of immigrants that will, and do an activity with Allan Bopp ers nationally, with the purpose people I know. Other people who arrived here in the last 350 years me: Write down your dream, Sandpoint of instilling fear or hatred and would be sent back to the land of should be sent back from whence advocating the exclusion of any their ancestors’ origin would be and then below it (with childtheir ancestors came. religion, group or race of people the Bonner County commissionlike curiosity) write the word We were not invited to visit or could incite a deranged person to ers, the Idaho State legislators “why?” move here from the countries of commit violence against innocent and most members of the United Below that, write down your our origin. We certainly were not victims.

States government and the vast Dear Editor, answer. asked to practice genocide on the Now is the time to address our majority of “Americans.”

We here in Idaho are at great And then, ask “why” again, native peoples and the abundant fears with reason. We call upon We should leave this land to risk of being victims of gun and write your answer. And wildlife that inhabited this land our legislators to pass gun laws what remains of the original inviolence. We are not protected by do this again, and again, until for thousands of years before our which will protect us and help prehabitants and let them decide who state laws, which could limit the you’ve uncovered what is real- arrival. vent further mayhem and violence. should be allowed to share this purchase of assault-type weapons, Perhaps some people worry ly fueling your flame. great land with them. nor are we protected by thorough that a few refugees will do to us Sandra E. Deutchman An exception may be granted background checks of any person (Sometimes it’s helpful to Philip A. Deutchman for the decendents of involuntary wanting to buy a gun. do this exercise with a friend in what we did to the peoples who were here before us.

I find it sad Sandpoint immigrants (i.e.. slaves).

Perhaps Anyone who is afraid, angry, the role of “questioner”). that some people are so easily it would be some small consolahateful, or feels persecuted, isolated, It might go something like

An Appeal to Reason...

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PERSPECTIVES

Travel at its best

By Sandy Compton Reader Columnist

Travel is always good.

Almost. Crammed elbow to elbow, knee to spine in an Aeroflot jet over Siberia was a bit challenging, but still, the rewards of arrival were worth the pain. That was a long time ago, before Mr. Putin got a grip on Mother Russia and started squeezing the newly-found freedom out of her. Before 9/11 changed the way we board and exit aircraft.

There are moments gathered on that great adventure that stand out still. Sitting spellbound in the third row of the Bolshoi Theater while the ballet performed. Eating the best bowl of soup—borscht—I’ve ever had in a basement restaurant called Number One Red Square. Exploring Moscow and the Metro with my friend Julia the translator. Exploring oil town Surgut in a red Gerry parka, a purple hat and yellow snowboard mittens; a happy American clown among somber brown and black clad Russians.

Visiting the indigenous Khanti museum in middle-of-nowhere Rusisinsk, and recognizing the village as a former gulag, small in comparison to some, but still a place where prisoners of the Soviet lived, suffered and died. Their descendants still occupy the place, isolated by geography, economy and love of the Far North.

Driving hundreds of klicks across the taiga in the middle of the night on roads glistening with glare ice in a Zhuguli piloted by a Baptist pastor who looked like Oliver Hardy and drove like Evel Knievel.

That’s travel at its best.

When I travel “locally,” ie. on this continent west of the 100th Meridian (where Wallace Stegner asserts the West begins), it’s good to start by taking a leap like that taken when boarding an Aeroflot jet bound for Siberia. Wake up in one world. Go to bed in another, even if you have to drive all

night to get there.

So it was for five of us with our backcountry gear and a bunch of extra just-in-case stuff crammed—and I do mean crammed—into a Toyota van Thanksgiving week. We made the leap across time and space to Canyonlands National Park in about 24 hours, with time for a nap in Pokie and dinner at famous burger joint Milt’s in Moab before bedding down for a 19° F night in politically incorrect Squaw Flats campground. Next morning, we had to confess to Mr. Ranger Sir that we had not paid our fees after arriving in the dark, but he was very patient and didn’t even take our pickinick basket.

Over the next few days, we got extra cold (15 ° second night), pretty hot (packing way too much stuff across way too much vertical), a little bit lost (missed our second night campground by a mile or so), somewhat confounded (our back country trip mutated five times for ice, water, ice water, blisters [mine], bruised shoulders [mine], a lost multi-tool [mine] and myriad other details [not all mine]).

We did, however, achieve our main goals: Lots of miles hiked on wondrous trails in country completely foreign to us (to hell with the blisters).

Eight days of life at its best, taken as it comes, with the spice of the unknown and unexpected flavoring it all.

Thanksgiving dinner on a table rock cooked with backpacking stoves—turkey and green beans with bacon, dressing and gravy, mashed potatoes with butter and cheddar cheese, cranberries and apple pie (a total cheat, but gobbled appreciatively, nonetheless).

Camaraderie built of stories, songs, shared food, shared travails and howling in concert at the fullest of moons. It was glorious. Even if we could see the parking lot sometimes.

Travel at its best.

Illustration by Daniel Cape.

The Refugees are Coming...

Dear Editor, It doesn’t take much to bring the Chicken Littles outta the woodwork. Instead of screaming, “The sky is falling,” these wussies are now screaming, “The refugees are coming, the refugees are coming.”

From our county commissioners and Heather Scott to the Boise crowd, the political arena in Idaho is overflowing with fear-mongering wussies.

As I understand it, the peanut gallery for the commissioners’ decision was overflowing with crybabies crying, “The refugees are coming”. I had no idea there were so many wussies in North Idaho.

This refugee thing is misplaced fear-mongering. What these wussies should really fear are the masses of Californians that will soon be on their way escaping their drought and taking our water. It is the water war that is on its way that we should really be concerned about. So stop being a bunch of wussies and start fearing something that deserves to be feared, you bunch of crybabies.

Lee Santa Sandpoint

County Land Use Woes...

Dear Editor, I have been reading with concern the stories of firings and demotions in the county planning department, changes to the plan-

ning and zoning appeals process, and the growing loopholes for building location permits.

Coming on the heels of a conversation with Commissioner Sudick regarding his disdain for the current codes, I am concerned that we are witnessing the unraveling of well-thought-out land use policies that protect property rights and our quality of life. I participated on a county task force a few years ago that crafted the current land use codes. Our broad-based citizens committee worked hard to strike a balance between private development, impact on neighbors and the public good.

As someone who loves this county, I appreciate methodical and thoughtful planning. I hope any additional changes in the land use and building codes will occur only after ample public notice and involvement.

Carol Jenkins Sagle

Sandpoint should accept all colors, creeds, origins...

Dear Editor, I’m new to Sandpoint. I moved here a little more than a year ago on a piece of advice from someone I barely knew at the time. Unlike many people who I have met here, I do not have a lifetime of history and experience in this place. Like many others who I have met here, I stumbled upon a truly unique

and beautiful corner of the world that will be a part of my life from here on.

I like to tell people back home that Sandpoint has welcomed me with open arms. When I first arrived, I found the wonderful community here to be welcoming and genuinely interested in my personal story. This warmth, along with the astoundingly beautiful landscape surrounding Sandpoint, is what has made the last year one of the most special and memorable portions of my life.

In the midst of the ongoing debate about refugee resettlement, I do have to wonder if I would have experienced the same reception had I been a person of different color and background. I am a young, white and relatively affluent man. Would my experience have been different if I were, say, a single black mother? Or a migrant Hispanic laborer? Or a Syrian father of three who simply wants a better life for his children?

I’ve noticed that the strength of community involvement here leads to a high degree of participation in “collective decisionmaking,” or politics. I admire this, and it is one of the reasons that I find Sandpoint so fascinating. The current debate, however, worries me. This area’s history has a dark stain of bigotry and hatred. Good people, through massive efforts, managed to excise those powers, and I can see a growing tide of progress and prosperity being ushered in by openness to innovation and acceptance. It would be tragic to see this tide quelled by fear of the unknown.

I do not have a long history here, but I hope to have a long future here, and my hope for this future is that I am part of a community that embraces people of all colors, creeds and origins.

Sincerely, Nathan Mynatt Sandpoint December 24, 2015 /

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NEWS Largest oil terminal in U.S. would impact Sandpoint

By Susan Drumheller Reader Contributor

One of the biggest concessions made in passing the recent the national omnibus budget bill was an agreement to lift an export ban on domestically produced crude oil.

That could mean more volatile Bakken crude sloshing through Sandpoint on mile-long oil tanker trains. An increase in those trains is assured if a slew of proposed oil terminal projects are built along the Washington Coast, as well.

The biggest of the proposed terminals is the Tesoro Savage, or Vancouver Energy, terminal project in Vancouver, Wash.

That terminal could handle up to 360,000 barrels of oil per day – making it the largest oil terminal in the U.S., if constructed.

That amounts to four to five additional full oil trains per day rumbling alongside the Kootenai River, coming through downtown Bonners Ferry and Sandpoint, crossing the Long Bridge and the Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer enroute to Washington.

The project was subject to an environmental review by the state of Washington, and a hearing on the project is scheduled for Jan. 14 in the Spokane Valley before that state’s Energy and Facilities Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC).

The 10-member council will then make a recommendation to Washington Gov. Jay Inslee on whether or not to approve the massive oil terminal. Gov. Inslee has the final say.

Concern is rife over the potential for a “pipeline on rails” through North Idaho, Spokane and down the Columbia River to the ocean. Among the chief concerns: •The potential for derailments. The draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) predicts a derailment of a loaded oil train once every two years between Sandpoint and Vancouver, but a recent news article in The Spokesman-Review highlights weaknesses in 6 /

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A train pulling oil cars passes by Sandpoint’s train depot. Photo by Marlin Thorman. the study, including a conflict of interest: the consultants formerly worked for BNSF Railway and currently have BNSF as a client.

•Rail delays and transportation problems. The proposal would have “major cumulative impacts to transportation” in the Pacific Northwest, according to the DEIS, and local officials have repeatedly expressed concerns about increased coal and oil trains blocking traffic and emergency responders.

•Impacts on climate change.

The hearing comes on the heels of the U.N. climate talks, where targets were established to reduce CO2 emissions. The amount of CO2 that would be released from oil handled by Tesoro Savage would be roughly 54 million metric tons per year – which is 0.1 percent of annual greenhouse gas emissions globally.

The Idaho Conservation League is working with the Stand Up to Oil campaign to encourage Idahoans to attend the upcoming hearing and provide comments on the proposal. ICL’s role is to supply information and help coordinate

rides to the Jan. 14 hearing.

For more information on how to get involved, visit the Take Action page on the Idaho

Blizzard brings great Christmas skiing Ah, snow storms: Sandpoint’s eternal blessing and curse. On the one hand, it means stuck vehicles, slippery sidewalks and terrifying holiday travel. On the other … well, one look at the photos from Schweitzer is enough to sell me.

Sure enough, on the fifteenth day of Christmas, Mother Nature gave Schweitzer Mountain Resort 15 fresh inches of powder. That follows the eight inches gained from snowfall the previous day.

The new snow is sure to be good news for those with plenty of free time and possibly some new equipment thanks to the holidays. Have a safe and merry Christmas, Sandpoint, and I just might see you on the slopes. [CR]

Conservation League’s website, www.idahoconservation. org or call (208) 265-9565.

Susan Drumheller is the

North Idaho Associate for the Idaho Conservation League and lives in Sagle, Idaho, near the railroad tracks.

City reminds residents of plowing procedure

If this whole snow thing becomes a regular deal (as many Schweitzer season pass holders are hoping and praying), it’s worth remembering the city’s snow removal policies so the plows can run unhindered.

Most importantly, Sandpoint Public Works officials remind residents to park their cars on the even-numbered side of the street on even dates and the odd-numbered side of the street on odd-numbered days. For

example, on Dec. 24, make sure you park next to homes with even street address numbers.

This will help city employees operate at maximum effectiveness while clearing the streets.

The Sandpoint Police Department also warns residents that if you leave your car in the city parking lot overnight, you could risk having it towed. After a heavy snowfall, the plows need the lot clear, and vehicles will be towed after 2 a.m. [CR]

Help Sandpoint Area Seniors, Inc. finish its parking lot With end-of-year donations for Sandpoint Area Seniors, Inc., in short supply compared to most years, organization officials hope residents will help them complete the senior center parking project.

While many are under the impression the project was completed after its dedication, SASI director Ellen Weissman says there’s still work to be done. In addition to completing

the parking lot, the senior center also needs funds for operational expenses. Since federal and state funding covers only 30 percent of SASI’s budget, officials rely on rental fees, grants and donations to keep services operating at full capacity.

Be a Santa’s helper this season and consider a donation.

Call (280) 263-6860 or stop by 820 Main St. for more information. [CR]

FEATURE

Peace on Earth … or atTwoleast in Sandpoint: local initiatives bring out the Christmas spirit

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff

Terrorist attacks. Suicides.

Cultural clashes. Wars and rumors of wars.

For both Sandpoint and the world as a whole, 2015 was a year of upheaval, unrest and needless death. But if there’s one thing the holiday season is good for, it’s instilling a sense of comfort even in the worst of times. That optimism must be catching, because the past couple months have seen locals spreading good will and kindness to those who need it most.

Ten Seconds of Kindness Spirits were low for the first semester of Sandpoint High School this year, and for good reason. A rash of recent suicides cut short three young lives and rocked the tight-knit student body to its core. By the third incident, sophomore Calli Laybourne, senior Troy Nutt, freshman Kassidy Walker and freshman Ava Blaser had enough—enough of the thoughtless teenage cruelty, enough of the isolating cliques and social groups, enough of the casual disinterest that trapped struggling students in depression. A persistent thought caught in their brains: What if one person took 10 seconds out of their day to show one of those students kindness? It might have made the difference between life and fatal despair.

“If you took 10 seconds to be genuinely kind to someone, it can change their life,” Calli said. “But also in 10 seconds, you can bring someone down to a low point.”

The kicker came when Calli found classmates sharing polls on Twitter comparing students.

Who is the prettiest? Who is the most athletic? Who is the most annoying? Her thoughts immediately went to the students being unfavorably compared. How

would they feel if they saw their peers voting them down?

Together with Troy, Kassidy and Ava, Calli founded the Ten Seconds of Kindness movement, a homegrown initiative encouraging everyone to make time in their day for random acts of good will.

Ten Seconds of Kindness started out small. Troy, Kassidy, Ava and Calli handed out candy, played music and looked for ways to add positivity to their classmates’ lives. Their social media pages shared content with a similarly hopeful messages. They recorded a video that played with the school’s morning announcements.

“We had a good start with a video we had in the morning announcements,” said Troy.

“It got people’s attention with what we’re trying to do.”

They may have been little gestures, but the effect was enormous. Students started feeling safe enough to share their troubles with their friends, teachers or counselors. Some opened up about their depression or suicidal thoughts.

Another revealed that he’d been cutting himself and is now getting help.

“I’ve already noticed a change in the atmosphere,” Ava said. “You can tell from the chatter around. It has a much better vibe coming from it.”

The four students figured Sandpoint High School was ready for some positive action, but they never imagined how quickly it would take off. Within days, Ten Seconds of Kindness’ Facebook page garnered more than 1,000 likes. As of this week, it stands at more than 1,300 votes of support. Schools around the Inland Northwest have reached out to the Kindness leaders, hoping they can speak or help initiate similar movements in other towns. Indeed, the four students believe Ten Seconds of Kindness could spread

SHS students with Ten Seconds of Kindness (from left to right): Troy Nutt, Kassidy Walker, Calli Laybourne and Ava Blaser. Photo by Ben Olson.

well beyond Sandpoint. With enough momentum, chapters could spring up all over the country.

For now, however, the Kindness leadership is taking it step-by-step. They plan to start a blog in the near-future and are talking with local organization Selkirk Outdoor Leadership and Education about a potential collaboration. Their focus is still on their original calling: SHS students who feel isolated in their depression.

“We’re going to try to save them all,” said Kassidy.

Nana Kate’s Great Peace Project For a season all about peace on Earth, a quick look at the state of global and national affairs is disquieting. Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce President Kate McAlister was discouraged by the international violence pervading the headlines, and even more so when some political figures recommended identifying and

tracking people based on their religion.

“How could someone say things like this?” McAlister said. “Even more disturbing, how could others agree with what was being said?”

However, McAlister took heart from the words she believes are attributed to Mother Teresa: “If you want peace, you must be peace.” This wisdom formed the core of Nana Kate’s Great Peace Project, a simple effort to galvanize around the better angels of our nature. The effort is encapsulated by the famous threepronged peace symbol popularized in the late 1950s.

“I thought about my grandchildren, and all I could think was I wanted peace for them and for all of us,” McAlister said. “I gave myself a lecture about how it didn’t have to be something big, just do something.”

The project encourages participants to embody peace, using the symbol as a reminder. By displaying the visual, McAlister hopes people will

default to calm and kindness rather than hate. She also encourages people to create their own artwork, crafts and photos around the motif, then post them on the group’s Facebook page. Participants have already come up with some creative spins on the idea, but McAlister hopes to see more. She also could use a Facebook guru who knows the ins and outs of managing a group page.

If nothing else, however, she hopes the project will, in its own small way, calm the turbulence in the latest international and political news. After all, there’s no denying the world could use a little peace on earth and good will toward men.

“Be peaceful this holiday and every day. It will do all of us a world of good,” McAlister said. “Be peace.”

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208.265.2001 ShogaSushi.com

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Enjoy our Asian fusion cuisine while taking in the beautiful waterfront and spectacular sunset views

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Dollar Beers!

8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Art opening 2-7pm @ Infini Gallery & Studio (214B Cedar St. next to Eichardt’s Pub) Local artists and walk-in art studio open house. Free entry and refreshments

Throwback Thursdays at the 219 7-11pm @ 219 Lounge Featuring live music with Brian Jacobs and friends, $2 domestics and $3 crafts.

Join in playing in this informal open mic night setting every Thursday night

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Merry Christma Live Music w/ Justin Lantrip 5:30-7:30pm @ Idaho Pour Authority Singer/songwriter + beer = good times Live Music w/ The Cole Show 8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub A blend of jazz, rock, funk, country, latin and new age world fusion Live Music w/ Ron Greene 5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery With a groovy, soulful rock mix, Greene’s music will have you tapping your feet Live Music w/ Chris Lynch 6pm - 9pm @ Arlo’s Ristorante

Live Music w/ Harold’s IGA and Little Wolf (Josh Hedlund and Justin Landis) 6-9pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Come on out for MickDuff’s Christmas party, featuring indie folk rock group Harold’s IGA (with special guest Chris Lynch) and Little Wolf featuring Josh Hedlund and Justin Landis Live Music w/ Ron Criscione 7-9pm @ La Rosa Club Playing an eclectic mix from the ‘60s to present, Criscoine’s covers are peppered with originals and obscure tunes you haven’t heard in a long time

Sandpoint Chess Club Live Music w/ Harold’s IGA 9am @ Evans Brothers Coffee Meets every Sunday at 9am. All are welcome 3-6pm @ Taps at Schweitzer Hit the slopes during the day, hit the brews for the afternoon with Sandpoint’s indie fol rockers Harold’s IGA Monday Night Blues Jam w/ Truck Mills 7:30pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Karaoke Night 9pm - Midnight @ 219 Lounge Don’t you dare sing that song from “Titanic.”

Bingo Night 6:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Bingo, beer, popcorn, friendly bartenders, a nice courtyard. Seriously, what else do you need?

Dollar Beers!

8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Live Music w/ The Divided Side 9pm - 1am @ Roxy’s Bar

Trivia Night 7pm - 9pm @ MickDuff’s Test your knowledge and drink your beer, smarty-pants Charley Packard & Friends 7:30pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Come on down and see the one, the only, Charley Packard. He’s back, baby!

Live Music w/ Ron Criscoine 5-9pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Playing an eclectic mix from the ‘60s to pre Criscoine’s covers are peppered with originals obscure tunes you haven’t heard in a long time

Live Music w/ Marty Perron & Doug Bond Live Music w/ Justin Lantrip 5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority 7-9pm @ La Rosa Club

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December 24 - 31, 2015

A weekly entertainment guide to keep you on your toes. To list your event free, please send an email to calendar@sandpointreader.com.

Reader recommended

Santa Skis All day @ Schweitzer Come see jolly old St. Nick carve some turns at Schweitzer. Santa will lead a balloon parade with Mrs. Claus and also hear last-minute wishes at the Selkirk Lodge

mas!

Free Community Christmas Dinner 12-3pm @ Sandpoint Community Hall The Bonner County Gospel Mission hosts a Free Community Christmas Dinner. All are welcome.

For more information, call 208-263-6698.

Christmas Dine and Dance 6pm @ Talus Rock Retreat Enjoy a romantic night with a Christmas feast, dancing and hot tubbing!

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Jan. 2-3 SARS Northwest Cup at Schweitzer Jan. 5 First Tuesday at Eichardt’s Pub Jan. 7 Have you been up to Schweitzer yet? It’s reaching awesome The Reader presstatus with the latest snow dump. Photo courtesy SMR. ents to the Friends of the Library Jan. 7 Live Music w/ the London Souls Monarch Open Mic 9pm @ The Hive Ni ght at Monarch Come down to the 2nd Annual New Year’s Bash with NYC-favorites The London Souls. The rock duo have Mountain Coffee

been making a huge splash on the scene since their formation in 2008, with music that reminds you of Led Zeppelin, Cream and the White Stripes. Tickets $40 New Year’s Eve at Schweitzer Parties for all ages at Schweitzer, including the all-ages tubing party, the ever-popular ‘tween party for the kids (ages 6 to 11), and the rockin’ Stella New Year’s Eve celebration for partygoers ages 21 and older. The Stella party is held at the Lakeview Lodge and features live music with The Rub - North Idaho’s favorite party band - plus drink specials, free late-night snacks, party favors and a special cider toast at midnight

0s to present, originals and ong time

Live Music w/ Tennis 9pm - 1am @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall The Beer Hall has limited space and tickets will go on pre-sale soon for $8. Come out for the tenth anniversary of Sandpoint’s favorite dance band

“Casablanca” the film 8pm @ Panida Theater A screening and champagne toast of one of the greatest films of all time

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OPINION

Connecting the Dots:

How Bonner County is spraying toxic chemicals on your property

By Jonnie Bradley Reader Contributor We all know the county sprays the roads for weeds because Idaho law says noxious weeds must be controlled.

Bonner County has divided the county into three regions, rotating each year between them and spraying a different “cocktail” each time. They first sprayed in 2012 with “Milestone,” a formula used on highways 2, 200 and 57.

A more toxic combination is being used on Highway 95; E-2, which is 2,4-D and dicamba and fluroxyper with a mix containing glyphosate, a main ingredient in Round-Up. Although people put out “no spray” signs, figuring out the rules and when the county is spraying your neighborhood has become almost impossible.

Although noxious weeds are a problem, is spraying the best option?

What you don’t know may be hurting you, the environment, our food supply and even the local economy.

Spraying and your environment The county’s stated goal is to clear back vegetation 60 feet from the center of the road.

That means spray ends up in your yard, in your pasture and in the ditches that drain into the creeks, streams, rivers and lakes. Chemicals get into the soil, into the water, into 10 /

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the crops and into the ground water. It does not stay confined to the weeds.

Systemic herbicides travel throughout all parts of that lovely blue spruce you planted in your front yard all the way into the roots, which reach down to the water table that your well draws from too. The herbicides also end up in fields where hay is grown, and where horses and cattle graze. The hay is baled, livestock eat the hay, and even though their manure is thoroughly composted, it takes upwards of three years for the herbicide to leach out.

We eat the meat from livestock who are consuming herbicides that are known carcinogens.

Spraying and your food If you’re a gardener and use composted manure from local livestock, you’re probably killing your plants. I bought very healthy tomato plants and used well-composted horse manure as a top dressing on two I planted in the ground.

The others of the same varieties I planted in pots in rich soil without the manure addition.

Within a few weeks, the ones in the ground started to develop what I thought was some sort of soil-borne virus. I went online, found a picture of my plant, and learned its problem is from residual herbicide in

the manure. If you’re wondering why your green beans “didn’t produce very well” or why you don’t have any bees pollinating your plants anymore, consider that it might be those toxic chemicals from road spraying.

The plants outside your garden are affected too. I attended a “forest edibles” presentation which dealt mostly with native berries. The presenter noted that we should be careful picking fruit (service berries, elder berries) that grow near roadways due to spraying for weeds. He suggested avoiding plants 150 feet from the road.

Spraying and your property values As you drive around Bonner County, note the curling tops of the dying pine trees alongside all the back country roads.

They aren’t dying from drought or beetle kill. If you look at the next layer of trees beyond those immediately along the road, you’ll see they aren’t curling at the tops and dying. Trees that die from beetle infestation do not curl at the branch tips and tops. Those trees retain their shape and simply turn brown.

Round-Up and its relatives are systemic herbicides that work on green parts of plants. All it takes is a tiny bit on one branch tip or leaf. It is then absorbed into the entire tree and kills it from the inside out. Remember that our evergreen pine, cedar and fir trees are green all year, so even if spraying was done in the winter, they die.

Losing trees devalues the look of your home, makes our area less attractive to new residents or people who might buy your house, and turns our tourist-dependent area ugly and

A handmade sign outside an organic farm. brown. Weeds need sunlight to germinate. When you remove the trees and shrubs from the roadside, you create a “happy weed environment,” perpetuating their growth. Dead trees are also a fire and liability hazard.

What can we do instead?

Many environmentally safe ways to control weeds exist.

Mowing is more effective, costs less than spraying, and has no health consequences.

Instead of spraying, what if the county allowed loggers or independent contractors to harvest the trees and require them to clear the edge of the roadside?

This option would help the local economy by providing jobs.

It also would eliminate the expense of equipment, chemicals, and manpower required for spraying. Best of all, it would involve no poison.

How can we stop the poisoning of our food supply and destruction of our local economy and environment? Bonner County claims it has no control over spraying because it’s a statewide mandate. They say, “It’s something you have to take up with your legislator.”

Our local officials dropped the ball on this issue in 2012.

It’s time for them to hear about it again!

STAGE & SCREEN

‘Trumbo’ boasts stellar cast

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff

Whether he’s breaking bad or investigating city-destroying lizard monsters, Bryan Cranston is a blast to watch. The actor brings a magnetic energy and versatility to his performances, tackling everything from broad comic schtick to monster movies to meth-driven morality plays with vigor.

That alone would be reason enough to see “Trumbo,” playing at the Panida Theater Jan. 1, 2 and 3. But in a modern political climate that uncomfortably echoes 1950s McCarthyism, the story of blacklisted Hollywood screenwriter Dalton Trumbo seems particularly apropos.

Trumbo is a fascinating figure in Hollywood history. Once one of the highest-paid screenwriters in the business, he penned cinematic classics like “Spartacus,” “Exodus,” “Roman Holiday” and “Johnny Got His Gun” throughout his career, which would eventually earn him two Oscars. His prestigious status, however, immolated almost instantly when he refused to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee. This decision prompted the heads of major studios to blacklist him and landed him in prison for 11 months after being convicted of contempt of Congress.

Since Trumbo is one of the most iconic figures in the fight against McCarthyism, it’s no surprise a film adaptation of the events would spare no expense on the cast. With a strong central lead in Cranston, director Jay

Roach rounded out his film with a killer supporting undercard. Helen Mirren, Louis C.K., Elle Fanning, John Goodman and Michael Stuhlbarg bring to life the intense political climate and Cold War paranoia that allowed McCarthyism to flourish in the U.S. Introduced earlier this year to a limited theatrical release, Trumbo has collected considerable critical praise.

While some reviewers point out a lack of narrative urgency and energy, the cast is roundly praised, with Cranston received the bulk of the attention.

Critics also laud the film’s resistance to idealizing Trumbo, a man who simultaneously supported the U.S. Communist Party and enjoyed the comforts of a capitalistic upper class. As Trumbo’s friend Arlen Hird (Louis C.K.) observes, “You talk like a radical, but you live like a rich guy.”

But why rely on critics when you can evaluate the film yourself, thanks to the Panida Theater’s Gold Cinema Cafe series. “Trumbo” shows on Friday,

Jan. 1 at 5:30 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 3 at 3:30 p.m. All shows are at the Panida Theater, and tickets are $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, $5 for students and $4 for children. Buy tickets online at panida.org or when the door opens a half-hour before the show. “Trumbo” is rated R for language and sexual references.

Screenwriter Dalton Trumbo often banged out his scripts at night from the bathtub.

thursday, Dec. 31 @ 8pm

“casablanca”

Classic Movie and Champagne Toast!

Friday, Jan. 1 @ 5:30pm Saturday, Jan. 2 @ 7:30pm sunday, Jan. 3 @ 3:30pm

“trumbo”

This star filled cast is sure to be an Academy award nominee, as TRUMBO is filled with commanding performances.

Jan. 7 & 8 @ 7:30pm

“theeb”

In the Ottoman province of Hijaz during World War I, a young Bedouin boy experiences a greatly hastened coming of age as he embarks on a perilous desert journey to guide a British officer to his secret destination

Saturday, Jan. 9 @ 8pm

Nu Jack City in concert Banff tickets on sale now on our website!

Bryan Cranston as screenwriter Dalton Trumbo.

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FOOD

The Sandpoint Eater

Merry Christmas from the Sandpoint Eater

By Marcia Pilgeram Reader Food Columnist

Lately I’ve had several requests for my sweet bread pudding recipe. The truth is, this recipe, like many of my others, is predicated on what’s in my freezer. And my Christmas gift to you good folks is to share some of my secrets of repurposing food. Leftovers, extras, scraps—whatever your chosen vernacular—the food that remains after the last guest has departed can take on a whole new delicious life.

I’ve never been able to toss a scrap without guilt. Back on the ranch, I had a lot of hungry mouths to feed and even prepared extra for “drop-ins.”

I used to keep plastic storage containers in the freezer: one for vegetables, one for meats, and so on. When the tubs were nearly full, I’d turn them into savory stews, soups or shepherd pies. About then, I also acquired my first Cuisinart and I learned, to my delight, I could not only repurpose, but also camouflage foods. One Sunday morning I served the cowboys a baked sausage and spinach pate, and they were having none of that. A couple days later they thought it was mighty tasty, concealed as ground meat in a Bolognese sauce over pasta. One of the older, gruff cowhands once confided in me, “we never knew what the hell we were eating after you got that food chopper.”

From the ranch to the restaurant, I’ve fed hundreds if not thousands of family, friends and clients. Invariably, I am often asked for recipes, but who wants to take the conversation from glowing compliments to, “First you start with a buck-

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etful of frozen leftovers…”

But food is expensive, and if properly preserved, there’s very little that can’t be repurposed.

This party-centric season is a great time to be mindful of all the food we needn’t waste.

My chest freezer is a treasure trove of ingredients, carefully wrapped and labeled for their next life. For instance, after Thanksgiving I wrapped and froze a leftover pumpkin roll, dinner rolls and half a pecan pie plus some leftover whipped cream. All this, plus some extra cream and four eggs became the bread pudding that friends were raving about!

Recently after a party, I froze the leftover hot spinach

and red pepper cheese dip and added it a few days later, along with some frozen Cioppino to a cream reduction and served it over linguine.

This time of year I also deconstruct antipasto and relish trays—anything that could typically go into soup stock is chopped, sautéed and frozen.

Most fresh vegetables preserve better with a quick blanch or sauté before freezing. If baking, I save the bits of nuts and coconut or whatever else I chopped a little too much of and store that in a freezer container too.

When it’s nearly full, I add it to a batch of scones or a streusel coffee cake.

Some foods, like cheese and

cream, will form crystals when frozen and lose some integrity when thawed so they work best in a recipe that requires heating or cooking. When saving yolks or whites of eggs, whisk them with a little sugar before you freeze.

The success in repurposing lies not only in the packaging, but also the labeling. I do have my moments, thinking to myself, “What the hell is this?” I cook a lot of meals and freeze for my daughter and her family, and they too have met up with some frozen “mystery packages.” So if you’re really in doubt, just toss it out.

I must confess to finding some really interesting stuff in the freezer, and about twice

a year I don my arctic gloves and assess the larder. I used to collect hail balls, and, in hindsight, I am not sure why, because I have never actually gotten around to displaying them for bragging rights. I also love buying things on sale, and apparently bacon tops that list as I recently discovered a cache of ten pounds (you can’t have too much bacon).

After you try this recipe for Ancho Chili caramelized bacon, I feel like I might find you hanging around the bacon sales too.

Leftover cinnamon rolls work well in the sweet bread pudding recipe, and so too does a big drizzle of caramel ice cream sauce.

Merry Christmas from the Eater—and the freezer!

Sweet Bread Pudding INGREDIENTS:

•8 large eggs •2 cups whole milk •2 cups sugar •2 cups whipping cream •1 teaspoon vanilla extract •About eight cups bread or rolls, cut into 1-inch cubes (can be part cinnamon rolls, left over cake, etc.)

•1 cup golden raisins or chopped dates or finely chopped nuts

PREPARATION:

•Preheat oven to 350°F •Butter a round casserole glass baking dish. Set aside •Whisk eggs in large bowl to blend •Add milk, sugar, cream, and vanilla; whisk to blend well. Stir in bread and raisins/substitute. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish. Press down lightly to make sure all the bread is soaked.

•Place pudding in a roasting pan that is a little less than half filled with hot water.

•Cover the roaster with foil and bake/steam the pudding for 2 hours.

•Cool slightly (pudding will fall slightly).

•Dust with powder sugar and serve warm with hard sauce.

Ancho Chili Candied Bacon Should serve 4-6 (or one bacon addict) as a cocktail snack. Also great served atop salad. Good luck having any left when you serve the salad.

INGREDIENTS:

•One pound thick bacon (I recommend Wood’s) •½ cup brown sugar •½ cup white sugar •1 tbs ancho chile powder •½ tsp chili flakes •½ tsp sea salt

•Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

•Arrange 1 pound thick cut, meaty bacon strips on the foil and coat both sides with the chili sugar.

•Bake for 10 minutes, until sizzling and lightly browned.

INGREDIENTS:

•½ cup butter

•1 ½ cups powdered sugar •3 tbs rum, whiskey or brandy •Dusting of cinnamon

PREPARATION:

PREPARATION:

•Line 2 large rimmed baking sheets with foil. In a bowl, whisk ¼ cup packed light brown sugar and ¼ cup granulated sugar with the ancho chili powder, chili flakes and salt.

Hard Sauce

•In electric mixer, whip butter to fluffy, slowly add powdered sugar, whip and scrape mixer bowl.

•Spoon off the excess bacon fat from the baking sheets and bake an additional 5 minutes to 7 minutes longer, until crisp.

•Transfer to a rack set over a sheet of foil to cool; cut in 1 inch pieces and serve.

•Add cinnamon and the liquor, a few drops at a time, beat until smooth.

•Store in refrigerator. Serve at room temperature.

MUSIC

This week’s RLW by Ben Olson

New Year’s Bash showcases rockers The London Souls

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

Rock is not dead, and neither is London Souls’ front man Tash Neal. But it could’ve gone much differently.

The rock duo, featuring Tash Neal on the vocals and guitar and Chris St. Hillaire on drums, has been a well-kept secret amongst rock aficionados in New York City where the duo is based. Their sound is a nod to the fundamentals of rock and roll, featuring solid lead lines, an amazing set of drums and harmonies that scream with emotion.

I was able to talk with front man Tash Neal about life, death and the future of rock and roll.

You’ve managed to create an amazing amount of sound out of just two guys. It reminds me a lot of the White Stripes. How do you make that happen?

Chris is probably one of the greatest drummers I’ve ever seen. When he plays the drums, it’s not just a heavy rock beat … even though he has a huge kit, the sound you get out of him is because he’s aware of the subtleties. He brings something different than most drummers.

Also, I like to be all over the neck. I like to go all out and be untethered. When I play live shows, it’s boring if there are no risks involved.

Who writes the songs?

We’re both songwriters. We’ll formulate ideas together. That’s kind of how the band started.

Chris and I worked in small rooms and brought harmonies together. We recorded everything ourselves and arranged the basic ideas … Chris moved to the city in high school, I grew up on the upper west side. We had similar interests in music. That’s rare to find, people who are putting their hearts into something, going through that same discovery process. Hearing “American Beauty” from the Grateful Dead for the first time, hearing Wu Tang Clan for the first time. Really putting passion into what we play, we put our hearts into being the best we could with those instruments. We

started writing together, harmonizing together. It’s been great.

You’ve managed to create a sound that is influenced by a lot of rock greats, but feels like it isn’t trying to be vintage or retro. It seems to belong in the time it was written.

I appreciate that. I think if you are writing from your own experience, it’s always going to be relevant. It’s honest to that place and time … I don’t necessarily think too deep about the sound, I don’t think, “I have to make this sound vintage.” It just comes out how it comes out.

Rock and roll has ebbed and flowed in the past decades.

What do you think the future will hold?

I think it will splinter even more. There will be more original, unique material out there, but also, it’s good and bad because the weird thing about this time is that everyone has access to everything. It’s great because you get influences from all over, but it can also dilute. I just want to see incredible musicians that I know are making it in the moment.

Tell me how you got started with musical influences who moved you.

Even when I was a kid, before I even thought about being in a band, I heard what was happening on the radio like most people.

I loved music and had records around my house. Stuff that will never be bad: Motown, Stevie Wonder, classical music, samba, just stuff that can be influential … I’ve been moved by music to the point of tears before. Nobody should waste that opportunity. I think people should … make that music that moves them. I know I will always fall short, but I will always try 150 percent. If something moves you, respect that and really work hard at it.

Have there ever been gigs in the past that stick out as a turning point for your band?

I kind of feel like every gig is like that. We have gigs now,

Chris St. Hillaire (left) and Tash Neal (right) of the London Souls. Courtesy photo. and I think, “I never would’ve forseen doing that.” That hasn’t really stopped for us since we started. It keeps happening.

Are you still learning?

Absolutely. You evolve as a person. You’re always hearing new music inside. People talk and they say their things, and it all makes you try to get better as songwriters. I always feel like I could’ve been a little better.

Are you working on a new album now?

Yeah, that’s the next thing.

I’m writing now, and we’ve been touring all year. It’s been a really exciting summer touring with Billy Idol and Lenny Kravitz.

Not long after your second album was finished you were almost killed in a hit-and-run accident that left you in a coma. How has it been to come back from that?

It’s kind of like, the sweeter things are more sweet, the bitter things are more bitter. Once you come into a situation like that when you’re close to death, you’ve got to be thankful that you made it. For me, as a musician, I think it’s brought some energy for how I play. When I came back after the coma, nobody knew if I could

play physically, or if I could remember the songs. I was in a coma for a week … I had to be kept under, because if they took me out early, I may not have come out of it at all. And then I woke up, thankfully. It’s something I’ll be recovering from the rest of my life.

Have you used this experience in your latest songwriting?

Yeah, when you face something like that, it’s going to come out in your music. I think that’s a good thing. It’s good ground to cover. I wouldn’t want to consciously exploit it, but once you have been that close to death, it’s hard not to think about everything being the last experience.

Catch the London Souls at the Hive on New Years’ Eve, Dec. 31.

The show starts at 9 p.m., and tickets are available at the box office. A portion of proceeds for the show will benefit the Angels Over Sandpoint.

Crossword Solution

READ

It’s Christmastime, and one of my all-time favorite books to read around this time of year is Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.”

We’ve probably all seen one of the many film versions of this timeless story, but reading the book is a must.

We all know someone who compares to the bitter miser Ebeneezer Scrooge. Sometimes they are fun grumps, sometimes they are just cranky.

But it always warms my heart when Scrooge transforms into a kinder, gentler human being.

LISTEN

When I was little, we used to put on Mitch Miller’s “Sing Along with Mitch” holiday albums on the record player, and the transformation to Christmas was complete.

Now that I am older and have a record player again, I can’t wait to hear those old favorites again.

Another all-time favorite remains Bing Crosby’s 1945 “Merry Christmas” album, with the inimitable version of “White Christmas.”

One album that I won’t be listening to this year is Bob Dylan’s “Christmas in the Heart” album. I mean, c’mon Bob, I love your music, but seriously? I’d rather listen to broken glass than Dylan sing “Silver Bells.”

WATCH

The holiday season would not be complete without the compulsive watching of a syrupy, feel good Christmas movies.

“A Christmas Story” is a favorite that is set in the 1940s. Follow young Ralphie’s quest to obtain a Red Ryder BB Gun, despite the constant warning; “You’ll shoot your eye out!” This movie is done with just the right pinch of nostalgia and humor, without the hint of cheese.

Also, I always get a lot out of “It’s a Wonderful Life,” although one unfortunate side effect is that it makes me talk like Jimmy Stewart for days afterward. Nyeaaah, see.

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Volunteer Spotlight: Volunteers: Judy and Chris Thompson Nominated by: Nicole French

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

Bouquets: • I’d like to give a bouquet to Nataya Thompson and Ashley Samora and the other students at Sandpoint High School who have created a yearly publication to reach out to other students. It is called YANA (You Are Not Alone).

I’d also like to gift a bouquet to the SHS group that has produced the video “10 Seconds of Kindness” and the other students who are spreading kindness by taping words of inspiration to the walls, doors and windows of the school.

A bouquet also to the principal, Tom Albertson, and other faculty members who are nurturing this student-led and student-driven kindness revolution. If we want a kinder world, this is how we make one!

Submitted by Cynthia Mason.

•Here’s a bouquet for Mayor Carrie Logan and the Sandpoint City Council for considering a resolution supporting refugees to counter that passed

by Bonner County Commissioners calling for an end to the program. It will be a symbolic measure with no real effectiveness, just like the one passed by the commissioners, but at least it has some humanity behind it.

Barbs: •One thing about the holiday season is that it reminds you to be more humane and civil to your fellow man/woman.

Sometimes I have fun in this column and call out individuals or organizations that need positive or negative reinforcement for their actions. This week, in honor of our holiday season, I’ve got no barbs in my heart. I love this town, I love the people who make it interesting to live here, and while I don’t agree with a lot of them, I believe we all act out of love for our city, county, state and country. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of you out there.

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Editor’s Note: In this first installment of an ongoing series, we are spotlighting area volunteers who have given back to this community and may not receive the recognition they deserve. A member of the community recommended every volunteer spotlighted in this section. Know someone you’d like to recommend? Send their name and contact information to ben@sandpointreader.com and why you are nominating them.

Usually, retirement means slowing down, focusing on hobbies, relaxing. Somehow, I don’t think Judy and Chris Thompson got the memo.

Instead of slowing down, this dynamic Sandpoint couple have made it their mission to give back to the community they love. For this reason, we’ve singled them out as the subjects of our volunteer spotlight this week.

“I have had the pleasure of working with Judy on several committees,” said Nicole French, owner of Petal Talk, who nominated the couple.

“Her dedication is just outstanding. She’s one of those ‘go big or go home’ people with all the different committees she sits on and volunteers with. A person who donates that much to their community in their retirement just blows me away.”

When contacted for an interview, Judy was quick to point out that she was part of a team with her husband Chris, who also spends a lot of his spare time volunteering.

Judy and Chris Thompson first met at North Idaho Junior College. After they graduated from University of Idaho, they wanted to spend a year skiing before Chris planned to get a job at a bank. That never happened. Chris began working in the skiing industry, eventually working for the regional and national Volunteer Instructor’s Association. Judy found a job at “a small start-up in Redmond, Washington,” (Mic-

Chris and Judy Thompson photographed by Ben Olson outside of the POAC Gallery. rosoft). The two retired and moved to Sandpoint in 1998.

“I spent that first winter skiing every day,” said Judy.

“It wasn’t long before I had to find something to do.”

Judy began to volunteer, getting involved with several worthy organizations such as the Community Assistance League and Pend Oreille Arts Council.

“Back then, you could be on the POAC board if you had a husband with a pickup,” said Judy. “I just happened to have a husband with a pickup. That’s how Chris got involved with POAC.” In her time in Sandpoint, Judy has put her hand to just about every worthy organization in town. She was on the chamber board for three years, volunteered on the regional committee for the Scenic Half, volunteered for the food bank, was a board member and planner of the Bay Trail Run for the Friends of the Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail and has helped with Kinderhaven.

“I have to be busy,” she said.

“We both like physical activity events. I may have been on the Scenic Half Committee until this year, but Chris was the one who measured and marked the route, set up the course race day and helped with set up and taken down, as well as putting out ‘fires’ on the course. Couldn’t do any of it without the guy with the pickup!”

The Thompsons have also volunteered for the Race Across America, driving a support van for Team Laughing Dog’s bicycle riders.

“It was a great way to see the country—at 15 miles an hour,” said Judy.

In addition to her other activities, Judy is also a member of a running group called the Midweek Milers.

“We get together every Wednesday, run three to five miles, then go out and have some wine and beer,” said Judy.

Chris credits his mother Helen Thompson as his role model for volunteerism. His family first moved to Sandpoint in 1957, and the Thompsons still own the family farm on Wrenco Loop Road to this day.

“My mother was a real role model for how to get involved with your community,” said Chris.

He has worked a lot of different jobs—on the pipeline in Alaska, at the Spokane Expo in 1974—but he first got his start in the skiing industry in 1963 at a very young Schweitzer Mountain Resort.

“I was a junior in high school when I went to work for Jim Parsons, Jr. in the rental shop,” said Chris. “I started with wooden skis. The general manager offered ski lessons to the high schoolers in town.

There were a lot of high school kids who had the time to work there.”

An avid skier all of his life, Chris still volunteers for organizations like Schweitzer Alpine Racing School (SARS).

“It’s important for the ski industry to give back through education,” said Chris. “You don’t become sound without trainers. It just makes common sense to give back to the community.”

When asked what organizations could use more help in town, Judy was quick to point out the Bonner Community Food Center.

“I’ve spent some time out there stocking shelves,” said Judy. “There’s a lot of need there. Food is a basic need. We all need it. People need help, especially during the holidays.

They could always use a lot more baby products. You can go without coffee, but you need things like diapers.”

Judy’s volunteer philosophy was also influenced by her mother.

“My mom is my role model,” she said. “She has volunteered forever. She was always taking food to the food bank from her garden.”

Are you interested in volunteering around town? According to Judy, it’s easier than you think.

“Just do it,” she said. “Find what you like and see how you can help.”

w o N & Then compiled by

Ben Olson

Each week, we feature a new photograph taken from the same vantage point as one taken long ago. See how we’ve changed, and how we’ve stayed the same.

Historical information provided and verified by Bonner County Museum staff and volunteers. The Museum is located at 611 S. Ella — (208) 263-2344.

The Charles H. Pike Plumbing & Electric store at 210 Cedar Street with mounds of fresh snow out front. There are a few children walking along the top of the snow.

1937 Copyright www.mirroreyes.com

CROSSWORD ACROSS

The same corner today (Second Avenue and Cedar Street). The original buildings are gone, and the snow hasn’t quite piled up that high yet, but there is still time.

Frontier and Washington Federal Bank occupy that corner now.

2015

milquetoast

/MILK-tohst/

[noun] 1. A very timid, unassertive, spineless person, especially one who is easily dominated or intimidated.

“Wilbur is a milquetoast who’s afraid to ask for a raise.”

Woorf tdhe Week

Corrections: Last week’s Then & Now featured a photograph that was actually a part of the Ross Hall Collection. We apologize for running the photo without attribution or permission.

1. Bright thoughts 6. Nonclerical 10. Agreement 14. Type of wheat 15. Annul 16. Protagonist 17. Overact 18. Cease 19. Angers 20. Utterly 22. Untruths 23. Attempt 24. Murmured 26. Rouse 30. Chews 32. Hermit 33. Free 37. Debatable 38. Feelings 39. Urgent request 40. Streetwalkers 42. Startles 43. Connections 44. No particular person 45. Loamy deposit 47. Ribonucleic acid 48. 36 inches 49. Widely circulated 56. Arab chieftain 57. Modify 58. Plaster 59. Place 60. Winglike

Solution on page 17 61. Follow as a result 11. Eagle’s nest 41. “___ the season to 62. Inside of your hand 12. Belief system be jolly” 63. Depend 13. Throw 42. Australian food fish 64. Rituals 21. A large vase 44. Autonomic ner25. A wise bird vous system DOWN 26. Charity 45. Female demon 1. Notion 27.

It comes from sheep 46. Bay window 2. Lacking intellectual 28. Dwarf buffalo 47. Attempt again acuity 29.

Tympani 48. Cry of pain 3. God of love 30. Thugs 50. Doing nothing 4. Car 31. Gestures of assent 51. Found on rotary 5. Ore refinery phones 6. Vigorously passionate 33. Not a spoon 34. Hodgepodge 52. Hindu princess 7. Feed the kitty 35.

Observed 53. At one time (archaic) 8. False god 36. Leisure 54. Chills and fever 9. Imitators 38. Haberdashery 55. D D D D 10. School of thought

People need to realize that every time they talk about how “fragile” our planet it, it’s just like asking outer-space aliens to invade us.

December 24, 2015 /

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