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PEOPLE compiled by
Susan Drinkard
watching
READER
DEAR READERS,
111 Cedar Street, Suite 9 Sandpoint, ID 83864 (208)265-9724
‘What’s one way we can treat our fellow human beings better today?’
www.sandpointreader.com Publisher: Ben Olson ben@sandpointreader.com
“People should quit being so mean to each other. Just stop it.”
Editorial: Zach Hagadone zach@sandpointreader.com Lyndsie Kiebert lyndsie@sandpointreader.com
Tonya Larson Receptionist Sandpoint
Cameron Rasmusson (editor-at-large) John Reuter (emeritus) Advertising: Jodi Berge Jodi@sandpointreader.com Contributing Artists: Jodi Rawson (cover), Ben Olson, Susan Drinkard. Contributing Writers: Zach Hagadone, Ben Olson, Lyndsie Kiebert, Tim Henney, Emily Erickson, Brenden Bobby, Sandy Compton.
“By expressing and showing gratitude and watching how that lifts people’s spirits.”
Submit stories to: stories@sandpointreader.com
Paul Graves Retired pastor, writer Sandpoint
Printed weekly at: TPC Commercial Printing Lewiston, ID Subscription Price: $115 per year 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.
“By giving back to the community through donations and volunteering.” Helen Barden Shipping manager Sandpoint
“Listen to each other.” Dana Martin Dock builder Sandpoint
-Ben Olson, Publisher
Sandpoint Reader letter policy: The Sandpoint Reader welcomes letters to the editor on all topics. Requirements: –No more than 400 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
“People should respect each other and friends should be loyal.”
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Haley Meyer CNA Sandpoint
This week’s cover was painted by Jodi Rawson, who has contributed a lot of covers to the Reader over the years. Thannks for the beautiful painting, Jodi!
About the Cover
December 24, 2019 /
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NEWS
Rep. Heather Scott features in WA House investigation into Matt Shea’s ‘domestic terrorism’ By Zach Hagadone Reader Staff
A bombshell report conducted by independent firm Rampart Group LLC Investigators for the Washington House of Representatives and released Dec. 19 describes eastern Washington Republican Rep. Matt Shea as participating in “domestic terrorism” in a trio of “armed conflicts” with government officials from 2014 to 2016, including the Bunkerville, Nev., standoff between feds and rancher Cliven Bundy; the so-called “gun grab” protest in 2015 in Priest River; and the 2016 armed militia takeover of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in Burns, Ore. According to the report, which has made international headlines, alongside Shea in both Priest River and Malheur was District 1A Idaho Republican Rep. Heather Scott, the three-term legislator from Blanchard who has made her own headlines in past years for flying a Confederate battle flag during her election campaign, cutting wires in her statehouse office because she believed them to be listening devices, triggering a special session of the Idaho Legislature after killing a bill that would have brought the state into line with federally mandated child support rules because she and other like-minded lawmakers feared it would lead to the practice of Islamic law, and claiming that white nationalism is “no more than a Caucasian who [is] for the Constitution and making America great again.” Scott also came under fire from her own party leadership for comments made in 2017 that female legislators only received top committee assignments because they “spread their legs,” earning her a rebuke and the temporary suspension of her own committee assignments. Her name appeared as many 4 /
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Wash. State Rep. Matt Shea.
Idaho State Rep. Heather Scott.
as 20 times in the 108-page Washington House report into Shea, which Rampart investigators claimed took more than four months to compile drawing on 34 interviews of witnesses, including “senior law enforcement officials, elected officials, former associates of Representative Shea, political opponents, other sources of information [including a bevy of news media reports] and concerned citizens.” In addition, the report based its findings on more than 120,000 electronic communications amounting to more than 46 gigabytes of data. The report goes into great detail on Shea’s activities as far back as 2008, when he was first elected to represent the fourth Washington legislative district, which includes Spokane Valley. Among the key findings, Shea has long propagated anti-government rhetoric, including political violence in the event of establishing a right-wing “provisional government” that would institute a milita-based military; fire all local law enforcement; liaison with sympathetic gangs; revise the U.S. Constitution to sanctify Jesus Christ; ban abortion and euthenasia; and mandate capital punishment for murder, rape, molestation, bestiality, kidnapping, adultery, treason and sodomy. Documents authored by Shea and titled The Biblical Basis for War and The Restoration, which include instructions for establishing an alternate government, were shared with Scott and others deemed as leaders in the socalled Coalition of Western States
(COWS) at a secret meeting in Spokane in August 2016, where attendees went by codenames to avoid scrutiny. Scott’s moniker was listed in the report as “greenbean.” Among the materials circulated at the meeting were practical guides to food storage, ammunition stockpiling, ham radio communications instructions and the recipe for Tannerite-based explosives. Similar military-style operations guides appeared to have also been put into play during the 2015 incident in Priest River, when Scott rallied others including Shea to turn out in opposition to a planned seizure of disabled veteran John Arnold’s guns, which the Veterans Administration was poised to take after Arnold suffered a stroke. About 100 individuals, many of them armed, turned up at Arnold’s home in what was called “IDAHO DEPLOYMENT — Operation Armed Backyard,” which was executed following a document shared with protest participants that called for the carrying of concealed pistols by leaders, the identification of “multiple resupply routes,” procedures for evacuation and “contingency resupply,” the implementation of medical services including an aid station and the identification of medical personnel and clergy members, and the setting up of evacuation and emergency communications. Scott’s role, as directed by Shea, was to identify “patriot bail bondsmen,” presumably in case arrests were made against the
protesters. While the event ended peacefully when VA officials declined to take Arnold’s firearms, report investigators said the “Operation Armed Backyard” guidelines provide “evidence of planning and coordination with others for an operation that Representative Shea understood could lead to violence and could develop into a protracted engagement with the Federal government as experienced in his earlier Bunkerville standoff.” Likewise, in 2016, the report finds evidence that Shea and COWS leaders including Scott helped attract and swell the ranks of armed militia members who descended on the Malheur refuge in Burns, Ore., with the intent to force a showdown with federal authorities over land management. Furthermore, Shea, Scott and other COWS members — along with Idaho Republican Reps. Judy Boyle and Sage Dixon — traveled to the besieged community ostensibly on a “fact-finding” trip that investigators alleged included the lawmakers misrepresenting their intentions by concealing their affiliation with COWS and sympathy for the occupiers when they met with local political officials and law enforcement. The report claims that Shea, Scott and others collected intelligence on the strategy and tactics of government authorities, then shared them directly with Ammon Bundy and his militia supporters — traveling into the occupation area despite direct instructions not to. “Evidence shows that Representative Shea conspired with others to plan and carry out the armed takeover,” the report states before coming to its “Finding No. 1,” that, “Representative Shea and the actions of the COWS organization during the armed takeover and standoff at the Malheur Naitonal Wildlife Refuge constitute domestic terrorism.” Elsewhere in the document, investigators broadened that finding, writing that while Shea does not
pose an “imminent direct threat to any individual or group,” “Representative Shea has since 2014, presented a significant threat of political violence against employees of the Federal Government and state and local law enforcement officers, carried out through intermediaries sympathetic to the Patriot Movement.” What’s more, investigators wrote, “Representative Shea participated in an act of domestic terrorism against the United States by his actions before and during the armed takeover and standoff at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge” and “presents a present and growing threat of risk to others through political violence.” Scott did not respond to a request for comment by the Reader, but went on the record Dec. 22 with right-wing website redoubtnews.com. According to the article, which only includes one quote from Scott, the report is Washington state Democrats’ attempt at “smearing” Shea and is a biased document, “when their top four information sources relied upon include the biased Wikipedia, The Southern Poverty Law Center, Portland uber-left journalist writer Leah Sottile [whose acclaimed NPR podcast series Bundyville centers on the 41-day Malheur occupation and 2014 Bunkerville, Nev. standoff with Cliven Bundy] and The Inlander reporter Dan Walters.” Redoubt News goes on to state that the 2014 Bundy case was dismissed with prejudice, the 2015 Priest River “gun grab” ended peacefully and the 2016 Malheur occupation leaders were acquitted. What’s more, Redoubt News wrote, the U.S. Department of Justice is investigating the shooting death of Malheur occupier Robert “LaVoy” Finicum, who was killed by law enforcement when he allegedly reached for his gun in a tense roadside standoff. It is unclear what investigation Redoubt News is referring to. A jury in August 2018 cleared the
< see SHEA, p. 5 >
NEWS
City of Sandpoint releases council agenda for first meeting of 2020, notes ongoing surveys By Zach Hagadone Reader Staff Owing to the holidays, the Sandpoint City Council won’t convene for its regular meeting until Thursday, Jan. 2, when Council members Andy Groat, Kate McAlister and Deb Ruehle will receive the oath of office. Mayor Shelby Rognstad, who was reelected by Sandpoint voters in November, will be sworn into office on Thursday, Dec. 26 with his second term effective Wednesday, Jan. 1. Other items on the agenda include the election for City Council president, a position that has been held for two terms by Councilwoman Shannon Williamson. The newly instated council will then receive an update on the War Memorial Field design, with City Engineer Dan Tadic and Dell Hatch of Bernardo Will Architects providing a presentation on overall
< SHEA, con’t from p. 4 >
FBI agent involved in the incident of any wrongdoing, while Finicum’s shooting by state police and SWAT members has been declared legally justified. A judge in September dismissed a lawsuit brought by Bundy associates against the FBI, Oregon State Police and others, alleging Finicum’s shooting represented excessive force. The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Inspector General in October 2018 opened an investigation into several FBI agents, seeking to determine whether they acted with a “lack of candor” in their comments following the shooting. The investigation was administrative in nature, with the DOJ forwarding its findings to the FBI. The results of the inquiry have yet to be made public. “Are the Washington democrats [sic] and biased media colluding to label lynch duly elected State Representative Matt Shea out of office?” Redoubt News stated. “Is it because they dislike the voters of Rep. Matt Shea’s district or his political beliefs?”
Newly elected candidates to Sandpoint City Council Kate McAlister, left; Deb Ruehle, center; and Andy Groat, right, will be sworn in on Thursday, Jan. 2. Courtesy photos. design at 30% completion. Council members will vote on whether to rezone a portion of a 10-acre parcel between Samuelson Avenue and North Boyer Road from residential single-family to residential multi-family — though only on 5.2 acres of the property that are outside the airport overlay zone. New business items include the awarding of a contract to Empire Boiler for a boiler replacement at the wastewater treatment plant. According to the agenda, the new
boiler will cost $79,603.09 and update the small natural gas boiler in use since the 1950s. The council will again consider a matter related to the Memorial Field project when it takes up a grant application to the Idaho Parks and Recreation Waterways Improvement Fund for improvements to the boat launch. Aside from an executive session dealing with legal matters and the destruction semi-permanent and temporary records, the council will take up another grant applica-
tion, this time the Transportation Alternatives Program to infill a shared use pathway on the west side of Boyer Avenue. The grant requires a 7.34% local match for the $451,760 project, amounting to $33,159.18. Aside from the pending business after New Year’s, the city also made note of its ongoing series of surveys, available at sandpointidaho.gov/engage, on the city’s website and Facebook page, as well as in hard copy at City Hall. The first survey, covering multimodal trans-
Washington House Republican leader J.T. Wilcox announced Dec. 19 that Shea had been suspended from the caucus and taken off his committees. “Allegations this serious, many supported by his own communications and associates, justify this immediate action,” Wilcox wrote in a statement. For his part, Shea has blasted the report and investigation as a “sham,” likening it to the recent impeachment of President Donald Trump. “Secret evidence, the inability to confront accusers, and the denial of any meaningful opportunity to respond is a modern star chamber,” he wrote in a statement published by Redoubt News, adding that Bonner County Sheriff Darryl Wheeler “physically stood with us in Idaho” during the Priest River protest in 2015. What’s more, he stated, the actions of the federal government at the Bundy standoff in Nevada in 2014 have since come in for criticism by a U.S. District Court judge, who said prosecutors
violated defendants’ due process rights while “some individuals cited in the report [as part of the 2016 Malheur occupation] were acquitted of all charges by a jury of their peers in Oregon.” Amid his chastening by Washington Republican leaders, Shea wrote on Dec. 21 to “look forward to a couple huge announcements early next week.” While Shea’s position in the Washington House appears precarious, it is unclear what action — if any — Idaho legislators will take regarding Scott’s alleged roles in the “domestic terrorism” activities described in the report. Calls to Idaho Republican House Speaker Scott Bedke and House Majority Leader Mike Moyle went unanswered, though Bedke told the Idaho Statesman on Dec. 20 that he was then unaware of the report. In response to questions emailed by the Reader, Rep. Sage Dixon wrote that while he hadn’t yet read the investigation in its entirety, “what was reported [on KXLY] sounded like a gross ex-
aggeration of Rep. Shea’s actions, and appeared to have the sole intent of maligning his reputation.” What’s more, he added, “characterizing the protest in Priest River as an ‘armed conflict’ is sensationalizing an event that was already sensationalized beyond what was actually transpiring.” Dixon told the Reader that he is not a member of COWS and his participation in traveling to Burns, Ore. in 2016 was at the request of an Oregon state lawmaker and spurred in part because there were Idahoans taking part in the Malheur occupation. “My visit to Burns was enlightening primarily because of the difference between what the media was portraying, and what was actually occurring during the situation,” he wrote. “Because we had Idaho citizens on-site in Burns, I felt it a reasonable duty as a representative to try and diffuse the situation and to avoid a potential death, which, given the situation, I felt was inevitable. Sadly, in the end, I was correct. While I cannot
portation, streets, sidewalks, paths and accessibility, closed on Dec. 22 while the next survey, addressing jobs and economic development, is slated to launch at 12:01 a.m., Sunday, Dec. 29 and close at 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 4. As of Dec. 20, the city reported 224 visitors to the first survey and 103 surveys completed — equivalent to 25.75 hours of public comment at 15 minutes per survey. Feedback on the surveys is intended to inform ongoing master planning efforts and the Sandpoint Comprehensive Plan update. Future surveys, all released on Sundays, include public facilities, services and utilities on Jan. 5; housing and neighborhoods on Jan. 12; community character and design on Jan. 19; growth and land use on Jan. 26; and natural resources on Feb. 2. Visit sandpointidaho.gov/you-government/engagesandpoint for more info and links to surveys and other planning documents.
speak to everyone’s individual motivations, I believe each of the state representatives involved had a similar reason.” According to a press statement, the Idaho Democratic Caucus is looking at the report in order to “ascertain the seriousness of the allegations against Representative Scott and the level of her involvement with Representative Shea.” “We value the rule of law and if anyone is violating the rule of law then we will encourage the appropriate entities in Idaho to take further action,” the statement noted. “No one is above the law, including state representatives.” Regardless of the furor surrounding the report, Scott told Redoubt News that she’s holding firm: “Don’t fall for the bait to divide citizens and don’t take your eyes of the fight to save our Republic,” she said. “I am all in and hope you are too.”
December 24, 2019 /
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NEWS
Idaho Congressional delegation responds to Trump impeachment By Zach Hagadone Reader Staff A simple majority of U.S. House members voted Dec. 18 to impeach President Donald Trump, making him only the third chief executive in United States history to be impeached by the House of Representatives. The impeachment centers on Trump’s alleged pressure on Ukraine to open investigations into the family of Democratic presidential candidate and former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden and his son, Hunter, for their business dealings in the country in exchange for military aid. Democrats, led by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., brought two articles of impeachment: the first for abuse of power in the alleged “quid pro quo” with Ukraine and the second for obstruction of Congress in refusing to cooperate with the House investigation into the matter. Of 435 seats in the House, four are vacant. Two members were absent for the vote and one skipped the proceedings. As such 428 House members participated in the historic debate, though — predictably — the final tally broke along strict partisan lines. Among the total Democrats on hand, 230 voted in favor of impeaching Trump for abuse of power. They were joined by the sole independent in the House, Michigan Rep. Justin Amash. Every Republican — totaling 197 — voted “nay” while New Jersey Democratic Rep. Jefferson Van Drew, who plans to switch allegiances, joined his future Republican Party members in voting “nay.” Hawaii Democrat, and presidential hopeful, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard voted “present,” later stating “What’s the point?” of impeachment, considering that the Republican-majority Senate is unlikely to vote for indictment and removal from office. For the article charging obstruction of Congress, 229 Democrats voted “yea.” Van Drew voted “nay,” as did Maine Democratic Rep. Jared Golden Again, Gabbard voted “present.” Republicans voted in bloc, bringing the total vote to 229-198. As expected, Idaho House members Russ Fulcher and Mike Simpson voted against both articles of impeachment. Here are excerpts of their statements issued following the vote: “Today, a stain will be left on the history of the U.S. House of Representative,” Fulcher wrote, “one which neither fact nor time will be able to wipe clean. Like other blights on history, this one is self-induced 6 /
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by the selfish ambition of mankind. “Having found themselves more desiring of power than service, the stewards of a once-honorable democrat party have weaponized the congressional process — one that was intended for liberty — in a desperate attempt to remove an American President and gain more control. “Although the attempt will ultimately fail, the stain will remain. And so it is. “Now, the responsibility for any positive mitigation lies with our nation’s parents and grandparents, to use this stain as a tool for teaching — and to explain to future Americans such that this will never happen again.” Simpson wrote: “Unfortunately, this vote does more damage than good and further divides our country. A group of Democrats, Members of the House and my colleagues, have taken their displeasure with the results of the 2016 presidential election and plunged our nation into a vicious debate, one that started before the President was even sworn into office. Facts are sacrificed for political grandstanding, the personal character of opponents is impugned, and the media tells whichever side of the story it prefers. Speaker Nancy Pelosi set a requirement that for impeachment to proceed, there needed to be bipartisan support. Today, we don’t have bipartisan support for impeachment, in fact, the only bipartisan vote today is AGAINST impeachment. I am gravely disappointed. Introducing articles of impeachment is one of the most solemn powers of Congress, ranking in importance alongside the power to declare war.” Senator Mike Crapo has repeatedly told reporters that he sees no impeachable offenses in Trump’s conduct while representatives for Sen. Jim Risch have only said that the lawmaker is “monitoring these issues and will comment when impeachment proceedings move to the Senate and he has cast his official vote as a juror in those proceedings.” Trump has been steadfast in his denials of any wrongdoing, taking to his preferred method of communication, Twitter, with a stream of statements, including: “SUCH ATROCIOUS LIES BY THE RADICAL LEFT, DO NOTHING DEMOCRATS. THIS IS AN ASSAULT ON AMERICA, AND AN ASSAULT ON THE REPUBLICAN PARTY!!!!” According to a poll by Politico and Morning Consult released Dec. 20, 52% of Americans approve of Trump’s impeachment.
Bits ’n’ Pieces From east, west and beyond
East, west or beyond, sooner or later events elsewhere may have a local impact. A recent sampling: Mammoth for dinner: While preparing a landfill site, excavators in the suburbs of Mexico City recently found a 15,000-year-old man-made pit used to trap wooly mammoths. It was six feet deep, almost seven feet wide, and held more than 800 bones from about 14 mammoths, The New York Times reported. How to keep a healthy economy if robots eat most of the jobs: As outlined in a Mother Jones report, the options include free national health care and a basic sum for food and housing; a modest or substantial universal basic income; no time limits on unemployment benefits; a tax on robots (endorsed by Bill Gates); and/or, socialization of robots, meaning they’ll be owned by the government, with their services auctioned out to raise revenue. The Audubon Society points out that focused efforts on reviving declining wildlife numbers can pay off. Bald eagles were scarce decades ago but their numbers have since rebounded. Yet, today there are 2.9 billion fewer birds as a whole when compared to 50 years ago, the journal Science has reported. Three factors are cited by the Audubon Society as problems: use of toxic pesticides; habitat loss; and the effects of climate change, such as fires, heat waves, rising sea levels and harsh weather. The progressive action group, Sum of Us, faces libel charges from PayPal after protesting outside PayPal headquarters. The protesters disagreed with PayPal doing business with a German neo-Nazi group, Pro Chemnitz. Sum of Us says the neo-Nazis have attacked Jewish restaurants and engaged in refugee hunts. Though PayPal filed suit, pressure from Sum of Us worked: The company suspended the Pro Chemnitz account in late November. There is hope for battling agricultural runoff into the Gulf of Mexico, of which 70% comes from agricultural nitrogen and has created an aquatic dead zone. Farmers can now access the Environmental Defense Fund’s NutrientStar guide, which assesses the use of nutrient management, cover crops, no-till practices, natural buffers and wetlands — all of which can reduce fertilizer waste and improve water quality. A recent study in the journal Nature says ice in Greenland is melting seven times faster than it did in the 1990s and, by the
By Lorraine H. Marie Reader Columnist
end of the century, will expose 400 million people worldwide to risks from rising seawater. While climate negotiators want to limit the rise to 6.5 feet, there are studies that show a 65-foot increase is inevitable. TIME magazine says the number of physicians supporting single-payer health care has gone up: it was 42% 10 years ago and rose to 56% in 2017. The stats also say that physicians spend 23% of their time on paperwork and 66% say third-party authorizations, treatment protocols and electronic records hurt patient care. Meanwhile, Wendell Potter, a former vice president for corporate health care communications, and now president of Business for Medicare for All, says the medical industry will attack presidential candidates’ plans for health care for all using deception. Potter says numerous employers are now aware that private insurers can’t and don’t want to control escalating health care costs. “[Business leaders] are fed up with being hit year after year with double-digit premium increases and having to push their workers into high-deductible plans,” which he says has led to serious interest in overhauling the health care industry. The Senate is being asked to enact the Native American Seeds Protection Act. Over the past century, the United States has lost 935 of its food seed varieties. The Act would determine ways to preserve authentic American seeds and traditional foods, and work to deter fraudulent claims of “wanna-be” products. Native American seeds are valued for their genetic diversity, nutritional superiority to genetically modified foods and ability to stand up to extreme weather. Blast from the past: “Whatever is begun in anger ends in shame.” Benjamin Franklin, American statesman and scientist, 1706-1790. Blast from the past: Republican President Richard Nixon resigned from office rather than be impeached. How he differed from the current president, who was recently impeached by the House: Nixon was interested in universal health care, which would have been similar to the Affordable Care Act. Nixon established the Environmental Protection Agency in response to environmental and health threats from industrial toxins. The current president has overseen dismantling some 75 components of environmental protection. Nixon expanded Social Security and Medicare; the current administration encourages privatizing both.
PERSPECTIVES
Our best foot forward Law enforcement is the face, heart and soul of a community By Tim Henney Reader Contributor Several evenings ago my 1957 bride, our visiting and aging (58!) adult daughter, son-in-law and dog Tippy were driving home with cartons of Thai and Japanese takeout from Thai Nigiri. Being about 4 p.m., it was of course dark. I was aware of headlights smack on my tail as I signaled then carefully turned into south Sandpoint from Highway 2. Suddenly there was an explosion of flashing red and blue lights, like a personalized aurora borealis, through the rear window. Someone yelled, “Omigod, the police!” as Tippy leaped over the backseat like a gazelle dodging a lion. (The last time I was stopped by a patrol car was June 1956 for racing, angry and frustrated, through a Berkeley, Calif. neighborhood in my British roadster because the coed I loved was on a date with some other dude. I married her anyway). Unaccustomed to a uniformed authority figure in the dark — even a polite Sandpoint authority figure — requesting by flashlight my registration, drivers license, home address, etc., I almost raised my hands in surrender. My less panic-stricken bride pounded open the glove compartment in the dark and a pile of folders tumbled out. The officer, probably younger than our grandchildren and just as friendly, smiled, assessed the mess we were making, said “never mind, I’ll get everything I need” and assured me by his demeanor that I was not penitentiary-bound.
“Your car registration is four months past due,” he said, and suggested, with courteous authority, that I’d best hie myself up to the Department of Motor Vehicles at the break of dawn. He didn’t need to say “or else” because he could sense I was breaking a sweat. I don’t know who this young officer is but I’m glad he’s a Sandpoint cop, even if I did almost wet my pants when his lights flashed on. Like public school teachers, police are the face, heart and soul of our community. Like public school teachers, the importance of their work is beyond definition. Also like public school teachers, their pay — for what they accomplish for society, for us and for our families — is shameful. Idaho teachers make about $11,000 less per year than the average teacher salary in the U.S. and Idaho police salaries are about $3,000 less than average, depending on one’s source. These numbers say something about the values and priorities of Idaho’s elected legislators, who receive almost $18,000 a year — plus a $139 per diem for members who live outside of Boise — which is slightly less than the $18,449 average salary among the 14 other states whose legislators work the equivalent of 57% of a full-time job, according to ballotpedia.org. When we pass an officer in a Sandpoint patrol car we ought to give him or her a thumbs up and a smile. They, like our teachers, are not only Sandpoint’s face, heart and soul. To cite an aged aphorism, they are our “best foot forward.” We should let them know we know.
Sandpoint Police Officers (from left to right: Sgt. Skylar Ziegler, Reserve Officer Erica Weisgram, Officer Ryan Root, Officer Derrick Hagstrom
Laughing Matter
By Bill Borders
December 24, 2019 /
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COMMUNITY
Chamber announces downtown window decorating competition winners Bouquets: • I’ve called him out before for being such a great part of our newspaper, but I feel compelled to again. Brenden Bobby has produced a weekly column every single issue for so long, I can’t remember the paper without him. His Mad About Science column strikes the perfect balance of information, fun and enthusiasm that we are so thankful to have in our newspaper every week. We appreciate the heck out of you, Brenden. • In the five years since the Reader has come back from the dead, we have had the good fortune to earn recognition from a couple of national journalists we respect immensely. Jason Wilson from The Guardian has written several great things about our paper, as well as Anne Helen Petersen of BuzzFeed News. If you haven’t read Petersen’s latest piece regarding the county versus city gun suit, it’s work checking out. For a small weekly to receive recognition from these tried-and-true journalists with national audiences is really great, especially when we have incredible journalists like Zach Hagadone and Lyndsie Kiebert, both of whom should have a larger audience reading their work than we can provide. GUEST SUBMISSION: • • I’d like to give a bouquet to Sandy Compton for his longtime work with the Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness and all of his stewardship efforts. He has been at the forefront and is a good role model for us all in what protecting our beautiful environment looks like. Thank you Sandy! -Submitted by Cynthia Mason. Barbs: • What kind of heartless monster would write a Barb on Christmas Eve? 8 /
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By Reader Staff It’s been a banner year for holiday lighting and decorations in downtown Sandpoint. The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce hosted its second annual window decorating competition this holiday season. Twenty-five of the downtown businesses participated in the Light Up Downtown themed contest by adorning their windows with lights and holiday cheer. Community members and downtown shoppers were encouraged to pick up a ballot at the businesses, visit all the window displays and vote for their favorite. An anonymous judging also took place as well as a social media contest on the Downtown Sandpoint Facebook page. Media partners including Bonner County Daily Bee, Blue Sky Broadcasting and The Sandpoint Reader offered up prizes for the winners. Congratulations to the following businesses: People’s Choice — with more than 600 ballots counted, Azalea Handpicked Style; Social Media Photo Gallery — Burl Wood Dreams; and Secret Judges’ Panel — Outdoor Experience. The Chamber thanks all the participating businesses as well as the community for supporting downtown merchants this holiday season.
Top: Azalea Handpicked Style won People’s Choice. Middle: Outdoor Experience won the Secret Judges Panel. Bottom: Burl Wood Dreams won the Social Media Photo Gallery.
PERSPECTIVES
Emily Articulated
A column by and about Millennials
A landlord love story By Emily Erickson Reader Columnist
There are some people who come into your life expectedly — introducing themselves in measured times of transition, like when you join a club or start a new job. Often, you can predict what these people will mean to you, identifying them as “office buddies” or “running friends.” But sometimes, people surprise you. Their influence in your life extends well beyond their preconceived roles, becoming supporting actors in your life’s story. Two such people, for whom “grateful” doesn’t cover my feelings for knowing them, are my landlords, Bob and Kelly. Like any good love story, I should start at the beginning. I picked up my cellphone, double checking that the numbers on my computer screen matched the ones I had dialed. When the ringing began, I started running lines in my head in anticipation of an answer, mentally reminding myself to speak in a normal tone and cadence. I have a tendency to ramble when I’m nervous. With a click and a buzz, “Hello, this is Stan,” chimed into my ear piece. I had found Stan’s place on Craigslist, an idyllic monthto-month, communal farmette just 15 minutes from downtown Sandpoint. Nestled into a wooded hillside, there was a covered garden, snowshoeing trails, roaming chickens, and one small room available — perfect for a newcomer looking
Emily Erickson. to get her bearings in the area. “Hi Stan, I’m calling about the room you have listed as available on Craigslist. My name’s Emily,” I recited. In a matter of five minutes, the little room — and my move to Sandpoint — shifted from hazy daydreams to crisp new realities, just on my horizon. Stan was personable and excited, was retired from a respected position in the community, and loved the home he now shared with travelers, newcomers and longtime residents alike — all things to look for when brokering a safe Craigslist move. Over the next few weeks, I packed all of my belongings into my car and moved out West, braving February winds across the plains of Wyoming and feet of Montana snow on my car’s windshield, landing in Sandpoint in near whiteout conditions. Along the drive, I informed Stan of my whereabouts, adjusting my ETA with the worsening weather. Stan replied with sentiments like, “Drive safely,” and “We’re excited for your arrival,” making what I’d find when I turned off the highway and onto
the long dirt driveway, such an unwelcome surprise. Stan greeted me with a warm smile and took me around the property and the house, introducing me to the other residents as we passed. He showed me the pasture, the trails and the shared kitchens, making the farmette everything I hoped it would be and more. But then, he told me to sit down, and that he had some bad news. “Emily, we don’t have a room for you any more. Do you have a backup plan?” he asked, sheepishly. My stomach turned and my face grew hot. “Um, no Stan. We spoke on the phone three damn times and texted up until yesterday about my cross-country move, so no, I didn’t think I needed one,” the voice in my head spat. “No, Stan, I didn’t think I needed one,” I replied aloud. The room that had been waiting for me had remained filled, as the woman who was expecting to leave decided to extend her stay. So I was thousands of miles from home, in a place where I knew no one, with a car full of stuff, in the middle of a snowstorm, with nowhere to live. Perfect. These were the details I’d repeat when I’d share my moving story with the patrons at the bar I was tending months later: “Alone ... stranded ... snowstorm,” with dramatic emphasis in each recounting. To which my happy hour regulars, Bob and Kelly replied, “Oh my. Well, that won’t do.” They had decided that the place I was living (a mouse-in-
fested, windowless, cinder block building directly off the highway) was unacceptable, and that they’d be the ones to fix my unsavory welcome. So Bob and Kelly invited me into their home, building a custom studio apartment above their garage, with views of the creek and all the amenities I could ever need; a place I lovingly inhabit to this day. They take me to breakfasts, put presents with my name under their Christmas tree, and
arrive with a warm cab and tow cables if I ever get stuck in the ditch. The role Bob and Kelly play in my North Idaho life could never have been anticipated, with their kindness exceeding my expectations for warmth, love and, especially, the duty of landlords. So thank you Stan, for your perfect, occupied room, and thank you Bob and Kelly for being the family I didn’t know I needed. Merry Christmas.
Retroactive
By BO
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Mad about Science:
Brought to you by:
medieval christmas
By Brenden Bobby Reader Columnist
There seems to be some silly idea that a war is being waged on Christmas, that Classical ideas are under fire and are being forced into change by forces of greed, lust for power and unrestrained tyranny. If you strive to return to the pure roots of Christmas, you’d better be ready to tear down that Christmas tree and abstain from food for a month. Christmas time in the Medieval world was, well, let’s be honest: It was weird. Catholicism was waging a war on paganism throughout Europe, an effort that met considerable resistance throughout Germania and Scandinavia. One of the most enduring traditions comes from Yule, which you may recognize immediately as a Yule log, which is confusingly a dessert as well as an actual log in a fireplace that you’ve been streaming on Netflix for the past two weeks. Yule was a winter solstice festival that had deep and confusing roots in Norse mythology, believed to celebrate Odin and the Wild Hunt, a group of spectral hunters streaking across the sky pursuing prey. Yule logs were tree stumps selected and burned in the hearth to give families good luck, which was needed during a time of year when it was too cold to grow crops and freezing to death was commonplace. In addition to logs, Yule traditions persisting to this day include the Yule goat, which may have evolved into the symbolism of Christmas reindeer; the Yule boar, which is essentially a Christmas ham; and Yule singing, which has since become caroling. A pagan tradition that may 10 /
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precede Yule — and offer the basis for why Christmas takes place when it does — is Saturnalia, an insane Roman holiday that took place around this time of year in worship of the Roman god, Saturn. Though cited as a time of merrymaking, it seemed more reflective of a brief window of time during which civilization fell apart and gave way to anarchy. Work halted for the weeklong holiday, the roles of slave and master were briefly inverted and in some cases sacrifices were made. The tradition of gift giving actually traces back to Saturnalia and the role sacrifices once played in Roman life, as people would offer one another terracotta or wax figurines as gifts upon the conclusion of Saturnalia in lieu of killing someone’s goat. In many medieval European countries, it was customary to fast during Advent, the 24 days leading up to Christmas from Dec. 1. This custom may have been equal parts pious and necessary, as food was already difficult to come by in the middle of winter, when refrigeration wasn’t even conceivable. Christmas, and the 12 days following, were usually marked with feasting — especially among the households of the land-owning gentry. Gift giving has been a favored tradition throughout history, but could you imagine it being a requirement for everyone in your office to give your boss presents with zero reciprocation? Gift giving during the Middle Ages was, like most aspects of life, a very one-sided affair. The lower class gave one another simple gifts as they could afford it, but it was also expected for each household to present their lord with gifts as well, usually in the form of extra
food. Land-owning nobles were perceived as the protectors of their subjects, but this practice likely was more akin to offering a mobster protection money than genuinely being thankful for their lord’s services. Today, it would be akin to your employer expecting you to return your paychecks in December, for having the privilege of working for them — a tradition I’m happy has gone the way of the Christmas Dodo. Yule singing and Christmas caroling as we know it was a conflicted practice during the Middle Ages. The clergy viewed singing and dancing as sinful, heretical pagan rituals, even when the singing and dancing was intended to worship Christianity. Medieval Christmas carols were strange, complex tunes that sound totally alien to our modern ear, often incorporating different people singing different tunes simultaneously with one or two guys raging away on bagpipes to honor shepherds — another important job in medieval life. As for Christmas trees, this is actually a fairly new tradition, beginning sometime in the 19th century. Most people in medieval Europe decorated their homes with evergreen branches and holly around Christmas time to celebrate the persistence of life in the season time of the year, but few were ever observed actually dragging trees into their homes. Medieval homes were cramped, functional spaces that were also extremely flammable. Adding an unnecessary obstacle like a tree indoors would have seemed like a foolhardy endeavor to most people in that age. Such affairs were often left to the churches, which would decorate evergreen trees with
Saturnalia. Courtesy of Wikipedia. apples, in reference to the fruit of knowledge eaten by Eve in the Garden of Eden. Given the scarcity of food in the middle of a medieval winter, I wouldn’t be surprised if a few followed Eve’s example and snagged a Christmas apple for themselves. We live in an age of global communication, where everyone can interact with one another in real-time, learn about each
other’s customs and history while sipping a very 21st-century peppermint mocha. Christmas has changed generationally throughout history, so its continual evolution is neither new nor unprecedented. So enjoy your holiday season, turn off the news and your social media feed for a few hours, and enjoy your Yule boar with the people that matter most to you.
Random Corner Don’t know much about Love? • Monogamous relationships exist throughout the animal kingdom. Wolves, swans, gibbons, black vultures, albatrosses and even termites are just a few of those animals that find a mate for a lifetime. • It only takes about four minutes to determine whether you like someone or not. It is believed that it has far more to do with your body language, tone and speed of your voice than exactly what you say. • According to some extraordinary research in the International Journal of Psychophysiology, when lovers gaze into each other’s eyes for three minutes, their heartbeats synchronize. • Falling in love has similar neurological effects as that of cocaine. Both trigger similar sensations of euphoria that stimulate 12 areas of the brain at the same time. • Cuddling releases natural painkillers. The so-called cuddle hormone is oxytocin, which is produced during an embrace or cuddle. The hormone appears in the brain, ovaries and testicles and is thought to be involved in the bonding process.
We can help!
Research has found that a dose of oxytocin can decrease headaches and, for some, it can even make the pain go away completely after four hours. • Couples who are too similar — or too different — tend not to last very long. Research has found that there always has to be a foundation of similarities, but there also have to be things that each person in a relationship learn from one another. • People in love have chemical similarities with people who have obsessive compulsive disorder. Those in the early stages of love have lower levels of serotonin, which is associated with feelings of happiness and well-being, and higher levels of cortisol, associated with stress. This is strikingly similar to people with OCD. • Love really is all that matters. An exhaustive 75-year study conducted by a group of Harvard researchers has shown that participants’ lifelong experiences revealed that happiness and life fulfillment revolved around love or simply searching for love.
PERSPECTIVES
The time machine By Sandy Compton Special to the Reader
I
spend a lot of time on the road between Hope and Paradise. I have a home along that road. It’s the initial route I take to almost anywhere, whether it’s a drive to town for work or pleasure, or the first leg of a journey to some adventure far away. There is always something to see, if I care to look. The road is never boring, winding as it does between stone up there and water down there. Some of the passages are narrow, indeed. My father called it “our last natural barrier” between the roaring modern world and home. It’s caused me to question my sanity on nights when oncoming lights reflect off the icy pavement or millions of streaking feathers of snow come at me and at me until I think I may go blind. On one of those trips, a small paper sign appeared beside the eastbound lane where the highway turns to follow Pack River out to the lake. It had an arrow pointing east and the words “Time Machine — Free Rides.”
I had to laugh. Did the sign maker know how truly they represented the road when they drove the stake into the shoulder above the delta? Have they been to my house, relic of another time, grown from a seed planted by my grandfather, braced up by my parents and built on a model invented in Scandinavia thousands of years ago? Did they know my brother and I would stop a few days before and watch the ancient dance between predator and prey as an eagle stalked an elusive loon? Maybe they thought of the time warp at the border, where our chronological ties to Seattle, San Francisco and Los Angeles are sliced off by the sharp, invisible edge of Mountain Time, and travelers slip into the epoch of Butte, Provo and Albuquerque. Someone perceptive put up that sign, recognizing the road itself as a time machine. I am glad they pointed it out, for it explains what happened to me one December night when I felt an urge to stop in the dark to
gaze at the sky and the lights across the lake. It’s not fair to just sit in the car and look unless company and conversation are available. It’s good to get out and taste the night, feel new air on the skin, find a new star, perhaps, or an old friend hanging in the void. It’s good to wait for a hole in the sounds of our busy world, step into it when it comes, and be immersed in the loudest and longest noise in the Universe — the stars singing to themselves as they race through space toward times to come, the clamor of silence. That night, I stood up to my ears in that sound, until another made its way into my consciousness, so faint that only its persistent rhythm and an absence of other distractions allowed me to hear it. At first, I doubted what I was hearing, but as eyes adjust to seeing in low light, my ears adjusted to that tiny noise flowing off the mountain. I couldn’t hear the lyrics, but I knew the song, riding to me on the singular sound of
a piano through still, cold air. I recognized the tune and by that, what the choir was singing — a libretto ancient and familiar: “‘Hark,’ the herald angels sing, ‘glory to the newborn King …’” I found myself mouthing the words without noise, wanting to hear all I could of that concert. “‘… peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinner reconciled …’” I have no idea how far back — or forward — in time I was thrust, but the song continued to slip through the silence and down the mountain. I have never been so close to what I might imagine was the experience of shepherds in the stories listening to celestial music, and I sang along silently to the rocks and trees and mountains and the big, wide lake. “Silent night,” we sang, “holy night. All is calm, all is bright …” I know. Somewhere up on Eagan Mountain, someone was playing a piano or maybe just listening to a recording. The
music was leaking out of their house and coming to me on the evening breeze. I mean, given a choice of all the joyful noises in the Universe, would angels really sing “Silent Night”? I can’t say that they would, but I have never been so touched by that old song as I was standing in the dark along my favorite road, looking at the lights of my favorite town across the lake, straining to hear the celestial music. Maybe my road, the time machine with free rides, transported me for some few, wonderful moments to where angels sing old favorites in tiny voices and inner urges are the Universal Voice asking us to stop and listen. Happy holidays to all of you, from out on the scenic route. This story is adapted from Sandy Compton’s book, The Scenic Route: Life on the Road Between Hope and Paradise. More of his writing and books can be found at bluecreekpress. com. December 24, 2019 /
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Dollar Beers! 8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Good until the keg’s dry
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Live Trivia 6-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Create a team with friends or come solo. Prizes for winning teams. Free!
Live Music w/ Baker/Thomas/Packwood Live Music w/ Mobius Riff 5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery 5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority Some of the finest classic rock around Live Music w/ Right Front Burner 9pm-12am @ 219 Lounge Funk, groove and disco for the people
Live Music w/ Ruff Scrumpie 5:30pm @ Matchwood Brewing Co.
Live Music w/ Zach Cooper Band 9pm-12am @ 219 Lounge CDA drumming legend Zach Cooper has built a superstar progressive blues rock band that always leaves you wanting more Live Music w/ Brian Jacobs 5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Acoustic, folk and pop favorites
Live M 9pm-12 Sandpo eclectic blues, re
Live Music w/ Bright Moments Jazz DJ Amo 8-11pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Join Arthur Goldblum and friends for 9pm-12a DJ Amo a night of jazz bliss at the Pub vinyl to Live Music w/ Turn Spit Dogs ly funk, 5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority beat - it’ Local blues group
Piano Sunday w/ Dwayne Parsons Sandpoint Chess Club 9am @ Evans Brothers Coffee 3-5pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Jazz, freestyle and favorites Meets every Sunday at 9am
All Day Brew 10am @ Matc Open all day fo
Ben Klein and the Rocketeers in concert 7pm @ Panida Theater Join Elvis tribute artist Ben Klein and his rockabilly band for a night of Elvis, Buddy Holly, Joh crooner songs by Sinatra and others. Great 1950s style full band rock from this talented group of NYE Bash with Miah Kohal Band 9pm-? @ 219 Lounge Ring in the new year with Sandpoint’s outlaw country rock band, Miah Kohal Band.Dance and sing your favorite tunes, and don’t forget about late night food from Shilla Korean BBQ out back! Wind Down Wednesday 5-8pm @ 219 Lounge With live music by blues man Truck Mills and guest musician Andrew Browne Dollar Beers! 8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Good until the keg’s dry
New Year’s Eve party 9pm-cl @ A&P’s Featuring DJ Skwish, with a champagne toast
NYE Live Music w/ J 5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Acoustic originals, o ers and improv loop Come pre-party at IPA
Polar Bear Plunge 11am @ Sandpoint City Beach Test your mettle! Registration starts at 9am at the boat launch. Heated changing and warming tents available for men and women KLT Winter Fun Days (Jan. 2-4) @ Pine St. Woods Looking for some outdoor winter fun for your child over the holiday break? Children 8-13 can spend the day outside at Pine St. Woods enjoying winter fun and connecting to nature. kaiksulandtrust.org
Magic Wednesday 6-8pm @ Jalapeño’s Enjoy close-up magic shows by Star Alexander right at your table
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Dec. 26, 2019 - Jan. 2, 2020
Live Music w/ Groove Black 9pm-12am @ 219 Lounge Sandpoint’s own brining an eclectic mix of jazz, funk, blues, reggae and alt-rock
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
Mattox Farm Winter Music Series 7pm @ The Heartwood Center A winter series of music, with the kickoff show featuring Queen Suite and the Wagoner Family Trio. Doors open at 6 and the show starts at 7, with tickets $12 in advance, $15 at the door.
2nd Annual PAS Fundraiser 7am-5pm @ Evans Brothers Coffee DJ Amoe at the Niner The second annual fundraiser ben9pm-12am @ 219 Lounge DJ Amoe is bringing crates of fiting Panhandle Animal Shelter in vinyl to get you moving - ear- honor of Erik Bruhjell, a Sandpoint ly funk, soul, house or break- resident who passed away in 2018. A beat - it’ll be a solid evening portion of sales from all three Evans Bros. locations will be donated to PAS
Cheez-It Bowl Watch Party 7pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Watch party! Enjoy some fine craft brews with your friends and get into some football. Kickoff at 7:15 p.m. DJ Skwish 9pm-close @ A&P’s
Fire and S’mores 3-6pm @ Matchwood Brewing Co. Join your neighbors around an outdoor fire with pre-made s’mores kits DJ Kevin 9pm-cl @ A&P’s Karaoke 8-close @ Tervan
Day Brewery Brunch m @ Matchwood Brewing Co. n all day for brunch!
Outdoor Experience Monday Night Run Monday Night Blues 6pm @ Outdoor Experience Jam w/ Truck Mills A chill, three-mile(ish) group run with optional 7:30pm @ Eichardt’s beverages to follow. Headlamps recommended Lifetree Cafe 2pm @ Jalepeño’s Mexican Restaurant An hour of conversation and stories. This Holly, Johnny Cash, and even some week’s topic: “Living a Lie” d group of musicians. $25
New York New Years Eve Music w/ John Firshi Trivia Night Party at Matchwood aho Pour Authority 5-9pm @ Matchwood Brewing 7pm @ MickDuff’s iginals, obscure covWatch the ball drop at 9pm Show off that big, prov loop jamming. beautiful brain and be home and in bed early arty at IPA Adult djembe class (ages 12 and up) 5:45-7:30pm @ Music Conservatory of Sandpoint Join Ali Thomas for this djembe (drum) class
on h. ng en
Angels Over Sandpoint New Year’s Eve Party Collectivity in concert 9:30pm @ The Hive Jazz, funk and psychedelic soul band Collectivity will be rocking the Hive, presented by KPND and Dig Beats Productions. Proceeds from the party will benefit Angels Over Sandpoint and their charitable good deeds in the community. Tickets $25 in advance, $30 at the door
OPEN 11:30 am
GAME ROOM UPSTAIRS
Jan. 2-4 KLT Winter Fun Days @ Pine Street Woods Jan. 2 Devon Wade @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Jan. 5 Free First Saturday at the Museum @ Bonner Co. History Museum
The Psounbality with Per FRESH FOOD LIVE MUSIC THE BEST NW BREWS
212 Cedar Street Downtown Sandpoint
208.263.4005 A SandPint Tradition Since 1994 December 24, 2019 /
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PERSPECTIVES
Christmasby the numbers By Zach Hagadone Reader Staff According to online statistics clearinghouse statista.com, only 5% of respondents to a 2016 survey by the company said they did not plan to take part in celebrating Christmas, which this year falls on Wednesday, Dec. 25. As Statista pointed out, all that merry-making translates into a mountain of money: “Christmas is typically the largest economic stimulus for many nations around the world as sales increase dramatically in almost all retail areas.” In the United States, the financial impact is enormous. According to the World Economic Forum, more than $1 trillion are spent around the holidays in the United States, which Statista points out prompted the hiring of 525,000 seasonal employees in 2017 alone. Aside from gifts — on which the WEF reports the average shopper will spend $942
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— Americans put their holiday dough toward real Christmas trees: About 26 million of them were purchased in 2015, costing an average of $50.82, according to Statista. Online sales are expected to reach almost $150 billion this year, with Americans spending an average of 15 hours on gift buying during the season, according to Consumer Reports. Women spend an average of 20 hours while men spend 10 hours looking for presents. All this adds up to Americans topping the world for how much they invest in Yuletide. WEF reports that 22% of people in the U.S. said they went into debt to pay for Christmas, followed by 19% of Romanians and 17% of consumers in the United Kingdom. We might spend a lot of cash this time of year, but we don’t seem to care too much about it. WEF said 40% of respondents claimed that they don’t worry about what they shell out to ensure a festive holiday.
MUSIC
Live music for the long winter
The Sandpoint Winter Concert Series kicks off this weekend with Queen Suite and The Wagoner Family Trio
By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff
Fans of Sadie Sicilia are in for a treat as the vivacious singer-songwriter performs in two bands Friday, Dec. 27 at the Heartwood Center: Queen Suite and The Wagoner Family Trio. It’s the first of four shows in the Sandpoint Winter Series, presented by Mattox Farm Productions in a partnership with the Heartwood. Drawing influence from classic rock, folk, pop and beyond, Sadie Sicilia is a North Idaho-born, Nashville-raised performer known for her powerful voice and choreography. She performs in Queen Suite alongside classically trained pianist Desiree, and with her parents in the Wagoner Family Trio. The Sandpoint Winter Series will feature concerts every fourth Friday through March. Local string masters BareGrass and Spokane guitarist Lucas ter Series is the latest in a packed schedBrown will play the Jan. 24 slot; the ule for Mattox Farm Production foundDodgy Mountain Men and the Bren- ers Robb and Tasha Talbott. Just like the den Kelty Trio will play the series Feb. Sandpoint Summer Series and all of the 28. Bands playing the other shows he and Tasha March show — the last Queen Suite and spearhead, Robb said the in the series — are yet The Wagoner foursome of winter conto be announced. Doors certs is an effort to bring to the Heartwood Cen- Family Trio music to Sandpoint in a ter open at 6 p.m. and Friday, Dec. 27; 7 p.m.; $8 for venue where people are music begins at 7 p.m. youth, $12 for adults in adthere to truly listen. for all shows. Eichardt’s vance, $15 at the door. The “Like everything we Heartwood Center, 615 Oak will supply beer and St., 208-263-8699, heartwood- do, we enjoy good music wine while Sandpoint sandpoint.com. Get tickets at and we want to be able to Curry will bring the mattoxfarm.com, Eichardt’s Pub, see that in a family friendEvans Brothers Coffee Roasters good eats. ly space,” he said. The Sandpoint Win- and 7B Grooves.
Top: Sadie Sicilia and Desiree are Queen Suite. Bottom: Sadie Sicilia and her father Mike Wagoner, with the Wagoner Family Trio. Courtesy photos.
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COMMUNITY Parks and Rec round-up By Ben Olson Reader Staff Pilassage (ages 15-adult) Pilates, yoga and massage combine to keep you healthy, happy and to reform your body with a gentle approach. Massage and stretch to soften muscles, then train your core and inner muscles. Participants are encouraged to bring their own mat and rolling pin — yes, a rolling pin. Well-behaved children are welcome. Classes will take place Thursdays from Jan. 9-30 from 9-10 a.m. at Sandpoint Community Hall, 204 S. First Ave. The class fee is $44, with $4 discount for city residents. This class is for ages 15 to adult. Pre-register online by Sunday, Jan. 5. Salsa in Sandpoint Salsa is an energetic and sociable Latin dance. Partners are not necessary — in fact, it is common to dance with people who have never met before. Classes are Thursdays, Jan. 9-30 from 6-7 p.m. at Sandpoint Community Hall, 204 S. First Ave. Class fee is $43 per month. Pre-register online by Sunday, Jan. 5. Rhythmic and Acrosport Gymnastics Rhythmics is a beautiful activity that combines elements of ballet, tumbling, dance and
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manipulation of props such as ball, hoops, ribbon and rope into skills and routines set to music. Acrosport uses partners and groups working together to perform acrobatic skills of tumbling, lifts, balances, tosses and catches of partners in combination with dance. Gymnasts of all sizes are needed — bases are bigger and strong, tops are petite. The next session starts Wednesday, Jan. 8. Each session lasts six weeks. The registration deadline is Sunday, Jan. 5 and class fees are $43 per session, with a $5 discount for city residents. Scholarships are available at the Parks and Rec office. The beginners class will be Wednesdays from 3:30-4:30 p.m., ages from mature 5 years old and up. Intermediates class will be Wednesdays from 4:30-5:30 p.m. for ages 6 and up. There are prerequisite skills required for acceptance in this class. Advanced class is Thursdays from 4:30-5:30 p.m. for ages 7 and up. There are also prerequisites required for acceptance in this class. The show troupe, which does community performances, is only available with concurrent enrollment in the advanced level class.
For info about these events, call 208-263-3613 or sandpointgov.parksrecreation.
BGH volunteers of WEIRD NEWS the year announced By Ben Olson Reader Staff
DEER WITH THREE ANTLERS SPOTTED IN MICHIGAN
Photo by Steve Lindberg,Facebook.
By Reader Staff The Volunteer Council at Bonner General Health hosted its annual holiday luncheon on Saturday, Dec. 14, where President Margo Johnson awarded the 2019 volunteers of the year. Sylvia Humes earned the top honor as the 2019 volunteer of the year. Humes began
From left to right: BGH Volunteer Council President Margo Johnson stands with honorary volunteer of the year Shirley Dome and 2019 volunteer of the year Sylvia Humes. Courtesy photo volunteering at BGH in March 2002 and has amassed more than 2,162 hours of service since. Humes has also served as Volunteer Council chairperson, treasurer and president. She regularly volunteers in the BGH pharmacy. Shirley Dome was named honorary volunteer of the year for 2019. Dome began volunteering with BGH in January 1999 and has totaled more than 3,389 hours since. Dome regularly volunteers as a receptionist at the information desk in the hospital lobby and helps with the Volunteer Council’s various fundraisers. For more information about volunteering, contact Kim Courser at 208-265-3329 or send an email to kim.courser@ bonnergeneral.org.
Oh deer, a former state representative in Michigan is mum on the Upper Peninsula location where he recently photographed a rare deer with three antlers. Steve Lindberg, 75, posted the photo on Facebook showing the buck he encountered in a wooded area with a third antler growing from the middle-back of the deer’s head. Lindberg posts a photo every day on his Facebook page, most often of wildlife he encounters while hiking. “It’s kind of hard to find something different to take a picture of,” Lindberg told the Washington Post. “Then, I spotted this deer.” Lindberg said he didn’t notice the third antler until he looked at his photos later. The photographer said he’s keeping the location of the rare deer secret to help the animal survive the hunting season. “At the end of the day, I’ll be honest with you,” he told WLUC - TV. “I’d like to get more pictures of that deer, I’d like to see if it comes back next year, so I’m kind of rooting for it to make it through deer season.”
FOOD & DRINK
Four breweries a brewin’ Toast the season with some local suds
Brothers Mickey and Duffy Mahoney were early adopters in the Sandpoint brewery scene, opening their brewpub on First Avenue in 2006. They were only 20-somethings then, but in the intervening years they and their business have grown and matured (well, the business has matured anyway) into a full-fledged pillar of the downtown landscape. The place is a destination for locals and visitors alike, with one of the best menus in the core and a slate of beers that started out great and have only gotten greater. Family friendly and inviting, with much-loved Tuesday trivia nights each week, the First Avenue spot is hard to beat. Except… there’s the MickDuff’s Beer Hall around the corner on Cedar Street, which houses the brewing operation and hosts regular live music, outdoor seating, cornhole boards, billiards, foosball, darts, sports on the big-screen TVs and a multitude of taps. Notable brews include the Lupulicious IPA, Evans Bros Coffee Porter, Dr Juice V.5 Juicy IPA, Ullr’s Amber and Wet Hop IPA. Of course, the standbys Tipsy Toe Head Blonde Ale, Irish Readhead, Knot Tree Porter and Lake Paddler Pale Ale have remained local favorites for years. What’s more, in a case of local-entrepreneurs-done-good, MickDuff’s is trading its First Avenue brewpub for a much expanded and gorgeously appointed new space at 419 N. Second Ave. The Spanish colonial revival-style building — originally home to the Sandpoint Post Office beginning in the 1920s — will be both brewpub and brewery, bringing together the best of all worlds. — Zach Hagadone
The granddaddy of 21st century Sandpoint breweries, Laughing Dog Brewing has been turning out top-notch suds since 2005 — including the muchloved Huckleberry Cream Ale. Add to that the 219 pilsner — a sessionable pilsner brewed and named in honor of the venerable 219 Lounge on First Avenue — Pacific Northwest IPA, Alpha Dog imperial IPA and medal-winning Anubis imperial coffee porter, Pecan Porter, DogFather imperial stout and De Achste Hond Belgian-style sour ale, and you have a longtime local institution responsible for kicking off the Sandpoint brewery boom. Trailblazing in one thing; sustainability is another. Laughing Dog has gone through a lot of big changes in its almost-15 years — several relocations and expansions, as well as a transition of ownership. Today, it’s as healthy and hoppy as ever, with a slick-yet-inviting rustic-industrial taproom at 805 Schweitzer Plaza Drive in Ponderay and — unlike previous iterations — a robust menu of eats. The board of fare includes comfort items like mozzarella sticks, corn dogs, buffalo wings and pretzels, and we have it on good authority that the jalapeno poppers are among the finest in the area. Beyond beer, you’ll find a selection of wines, canned cocktails and ciders from Tieton and Coeur d’Alene-based Summit Cider. As always, and appropriately, it is a dog-friendly establishment. — Zach Hagadone
Beer Hall: 220 Cedar St., Brewpub: 312 N. First Ave.; 208-255-4351; mickduffs.com.
805 Schweitzer Plaza Drive, Ponderay; 208-263-9222; laughingdogbrewing.com.
When owners David Kosiba and Christina Stecher were at loggerheads over whether to open a brewery or a fast-casual Indian foot eatery in Sandpoint, the compromise ended up offering both in one location. As a result, Utara Brewing Co. has earned a solid place in the hearts, minds and stomachs of Sandpoint. Utara’s core beers each carry with them distinct flavors and personalities. From the crisp Dr. Saaz’s Ponder Point Czech Lager to the complex Pine Street Porter, hop lovers and beer sissies can drink together in peace. They also carry three varieties of IPA and unveil a limited release beer every Monday. For nonbeer drinkers, they offer ciders, wines and non-alcoholic choices, including LaCroix sparkling waters. Remember, it’s a brewery, which means kids are allowed inside. Utara’s menu is a fresh take on fast-casual, featuring authentic Indian small bites, appetizers and entrees. Our favorite items are the Chips Vindaloo (think poutine, but instead of gravy and cheese curds they smother the fries with vindaloo curry spices and tikka masala, yogurt and cilantro), Samosas with dipping sauces, Pakora and Chicken Tikka Masala Rolls and anything off the curry menu. Don’t forget to check out their daily specials. The last word: Whether you’re looking for a casual place to share a pint or a quick bite that you talk about for the rest of the afternoon, Utara has definitely got it going on. — Ben Olson
I dare you to step foot inside Matchwood Brewing Co.’s impressive facility in the Granary District and not fall in love. Owners Andrea Marcoccio and Kennden Culp have transformed this old warehouse into a community hub, complete with full service restaurant and craft beer. Matchwood’s taproom covers the bases, from the light, approachable Berliner Weisse, to hopheads’ favorites such as the Classic IPA, Doppelbock and Hazy IPA. Brewer Bobby Birk recently joined the Matchwood team, bringing with him experience that helps support “creativity in recipe development, experienced execution in brewing technique and a down to earth approach to making beer,” said Culp. Each beer comes with its own shaped glass, making you feel unique just for drinking. Score! Matchwood recently brought on head chef Craig Wert, who brings 25 years of experience to the eatery. Wert has already launched daily soup and meal specials, a Sunday brewery brunch menu available all day and has made several delicious additions to Matchwood’s winter menu. With most items sourced locally, Matchwood’s selections are intended to please everyone at the table, from a hearty kids’ menu to shareable items like handmade pretzels, panko-crusted mac ‘n’ cheese bites to buffalo cauliflower. They also offer a wide selection of salads, a daily soup and handhelds like daily pasty specials, burgers and sandwiches. The last word: With a beautiful building bustling with activity, comfort food choices and thoughtful beer selection, Matchwood is a great place to bring the family and connect with the community. — Ben Olson
214 Pine St.; Sandpoint; 208-6275070; utaraidaho.com.
513 Oak St., Sandpoint; 208-7182739; matchwoodbrewing.com. December 24, 2019 /
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COMMUNITY
Evans Brothers hosts second annual PAS fundraiser in honor of Erik Bruhjell By Zach Hagadone Reader Staff Erik Bruhjell was someone everyone wanted to be around. That he’s not around, having died in a car collision in July 2018, continues to be deeply felt by those who knew and therefore loved him. As a friend told The Gonzaga Bulletin in August 2018, “His presence in general really brightened a room. He was always smiling. He was just a light.” The 22-year-old Sandpoint local, who completed his high-school education a year early and had graduated from Gonzaga with a degree in environmental science a little more than two months before his death, was also a devoted lover of animals — and Evans Brothers coffee. For the second year, Evans Brothers is hosting a fundraiser in his name benefiting the Panhandle Animal Shelter. All three Evans Brothers cafes in Sandpoint, Coeur d’Alene and Spokane, as well as the website shop, will contribute a portion of proceeds Saturday, Dec. 28 to PAS, honoring Bruhjell’s spirit of care for all creatures big and small. Specifically, the funds
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went into veterinary science — “Erik wasn’t exactly sure what he wanted to do, but he knew it would include animals,” The Gonzaga Bulletin wrote. “He wanted to dedicate his life to God’s creatures,” a friend told the paper. “He always said there’s a whole world ahead of us — he always knew the future was going to be better.” In honor of Bruhjell, Evans Erik Bruhjell. Courtesy photo. will go toward spay and neuter programs. According to The Gonzaga Bulletin, Bruhjell was an exceptional thinker, earning a minor in philosophy and channeling his deep understanding and interest in the world into animals and nature. As his partner Caden McClure told the paper, “He was a tree hugger in the most literal sense. When we went hiking or camping he would literally go around hugging trees.” In addition to his studies in environmental science, Bruhjell worked at the West Valley Outdoor Learning Center and volunteered at the Humane Society. It could have been that he
Brothers — which shares his initials — will sell special EBstyle ball caps branded with Bruhjell’s name. In addition, PAS staff will be on hand at the Sandpoint cafe from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to offer information about its work and services. Bruhjell’s memory will be further commemorated with a tribute featuring a candle lighting and the opportunity for friends, family and the community to
gather in remembrance. All Evans Brothers cafes will be open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the website will collect donations — click “Donate to PAS” in the online shop — and offer hats for sale until midnight. Visit evansbrotherscoffee. com for more information and to make a donation.
Funding available for North Idaho water quality improvement projects By Reader Staff The Idaho Conservation League is requesting proposals for environmental restoration projects that seek to protect water quality and riparian habitat. The group is seeking projects located in Shoshone County, but other proposals located in the Idaho Panhandle will be considered. Proposals that meet project criteria are eligible for up to $80,000 in funding. The Idaho Conservation League is Idaho’s largest statebased conservation organization, with more than 11,000 members state-wide. To fulfill its mission to protect Idaho’s environment,
part of ICL’s work includes coordinating and directing funds for environmental restoration projects. Last year, ICL distributed $40,000 to fund riparian restoration projects along Beaver Creek, a tributary to the North Fork Coeur d’Alene River in Shoshone County. The Beaver Creek restoration projects were led by The Lands Council, a conservation organization based in Spokane, in conjunction with property owners in the county. The Lands Council teamed up with students from Post Falls High School and planted more than 200 trees along Beaver Creek to help stabilize the streambank, which will
improve habitat for westslope cutthroat trout and other coldwater fish by reducing water temperature and sediment loading into the creek. This funding was also used to help design future riparian restoration further upstream that will also stabilize the streambanks and prevent erosion for local property owners. ICL is accepting proposals on a rolling basis to distribute funds as soon as possible. Interested parties should reach out to Matt Nykiel at mnykiel@ idahoconservation.org for a copy of the request for proposal and for more details. Details online can be found at idahoconservation.org/blog.
STAGE & SCREEN
Do you wanna build a sequel? Frozen II enters uncharted children’s movie territory and pulls it off — almost
By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff I went to see the first Frozen movie with my three sisters in 2013 as a senior in high school. My baby sister was 11 years old at the time; and, while we’d have liked to say we went to the theater mostly for her, it wasn’t true. By the end, we were all invested in the lives of Anna and Elsa, singing the soundtrack all the way home. When Frozen II hit the big screen a few weeks ago, all four of us went together again — this time, the youngest of us in her final year of high school. We all laughed and even cried, and listened to the new soundtrack on the drive home. Still, there’s no denying that Frozen and Frozen II are far from the same movie. The original Frozen story has persisted with such strength in popular culture that my 4-yearold niece — born two years after the original film’s release — will likely tell you that it is her favorite movie. While the first film received almost unanimous raves from parents, some are changing their tune following release of the sequel over Thanksgiving weekend. Warning: This review contains spoilers.
Race conflict and environmental strife: A (secretly) heavy plot Frozen II wasn’t about to shy away from hard topics. In short, there’s a conflict between the kingdom and the native Northuldra tribe, the viewer ultimately learns that white men started it and now everyone is cursed, and the only way to break the curse is to break down a dam. That’s right: Frozen II goes full-on Monkey Wrench Gang while also commenting on how white people write history. If this doesn’t sound like a kids movie, no worries — those themes are well disguised as fairytale tropes. But, once I had a chance to ruminate on the whole thing... yeesh. It’s easy to argue that Frozen II is trying to do too much, which I can understand. But I have to say I respect the writers for bringing these issues before children. All at once and amid another plot line where Elsa basically becomes the Avatar? I’m not so sure. The Fab Five: Core characters remain strong Main characters Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, Olaf and Sven stay generally true to the personalities established in the original film. There were definitely moments during the sequel in which I
wanted to strangle both Anna and Kristoff for being uncharacteristically dumb to further the plot, but that might just be the result of my not being a small child who doesn’t notice those kinds of things. The movie’s comedic strength remains in the little stick hands of Olaf, the oddly shaped snowman who is easily three times funnier in Frozen II than in the first movie. There’s a scene where Olaf does a very animated one-minute theatrical recap of the first movie, which resulted in me and several other moviegoers laughing until we cried.
Bless Brenden Urie: The music of Frozen II I’ve seen some critics really laying into the tunes from Frozen II, but honestly, I enjoyed the movie’s core tracks. “Into the Unknown” is no “Let It Go,” but it’s a good song nonetheless. “The Next Right Thing,” which Anna sings after believing her sister has died, is strikingly powerful. It addresses how to continue on after experiencing loss, and will hopefully reach the kids who need to hear it most. Celebrity covers of the movie’s core songs also do not disappoint — particularly the
Frozen 2 promotional courtesy image. Panic! At The Disco version of “Into the Unknown.” Lead singer Brenden Urie was born to sing this song. Trust me on this. As a whole movie, Frozen II was a generally satisfying journey with beloved characters and edgy political undertones. Now, after truly considering the film’s various elements, I won’t lie — Frozen II was a bit disjointed and try-hard. Is it the sophomore slump that so many sequels suffer? Absolutely not. But will 4-year-olds in 2025 be watching Frozen II? I doubt it.
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MUSIC
Hello, 2020
By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff Whether you’re planning to celebrate all the great things the past decade brought you or toast leaving it behind, Sandpoint has a New Year’s Eve shindig for you. New York New Year’s Eve Party @ Matchwood Brewing 5 p.m. Invested in celebrating the new year aside from the whole staying-up-all-night part? Matchwood Brewing Company has you covered, as the brewery live streams the ball drop in Times Square at 9 p.m. PST. There will be flights of bubbles — which include three specialty three-ounce pours with tasting notes — as well as a non-alcoholic mocktail bar, a New York-style food
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special and an outdoor fire with s’mores. This is a free, family friendly event.
Angels Over Sandpoint New Year’s Eve Party @ The Hive Doors at 8:30 p.m., show at 9:30 p.m. Jazz, funk and psychedelic soul band Collectivity brings the jams to the Hive’s NYE bash, complete with confetti cannons and a balloon drop. Proceeds from the party will benefit Angels Over Sandpoint. Tickets available in advance for $25 online at beeswaxsystems.com/ thehive or at the door for $30. 21+. Miah Kohal Band @ 219 Lounge 9 p.m. Sandpoint’s classic outlaw rock band takes the stage for the final time this decade as the Niner welcomes 2020 with a bang. There’s no cover for this show,
Ring in the new decade at a slate of local New Year’s Eve bashes
and Shilla Korean BBQ food truck will provide the late night eats.
NYE Party @ A&Ps Bar and Grill 9 p.m. Ring in 2020 with DJ Skwish at A&P’s as the bar a grill hosts a Champagne Toast New Year’s Eve party. No cover. 21+.
Roaring in the ‘20s Party @ The Pearl Theater in Bonners Ferry Enter 2020 in true ‘20s style — roaring ‘20s, that is. There will be live music from The Nightjars, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, ‘20s-themed drink specials and a champagne toast at 9 p.m. Tickets available at Bonners Books, Mountain Mike’s, The Logo Shop or by calling 208-610-2846. $18 for singles or $30 for couples.
NYE @ The Longshot 7 p.m. The Longshot will host a dance party and “power hour” themed treasure hunt leading up to the ball drop, all the while offering drink specials into the wee hours of the morning. Schweitzer Mountain Resort is also hosting a number of New Year’s Eve parties, but the tickets are sold out. However, as the event organizers point out, “don’t panic.” Chimney Rock is still accepting reservations, Gourmandie is open until 7 p.m. — “but likely a little later” — and Pucci’s Pub and the Powder Hound will be admitting revelers into the evening. Get more info at schweitzer.com/event/newyears-eve-parties.
MUSIC
Scaling up
This week’s RLW by Ben Olson
Bella Noté welcomes new instructors, classes
By Ben Olson Reader Staff
Bella Noté Music Studios has welcomed two new teachers to its roster, as well as added classes for 2020, expanding learning opportunities for the next generation of Sandpoint musicians. Rachel Gordon and Caytlin Reese opened the studio in Sandpoint in 2015, specializing in early childhood music classes for toddlers to 5-year-olds. Bella Noté also offers private instruction for music students from 4 years of age — with parental involvement — through ages “much wiser.” New teachers Apryll Walker and Scott Taylor each bring with them a love of music they hope to introduce to the young Sandpoint music community. Walker comes to Bella Noté with many years of performing and teaching experience. After 12 years of touring and more than 3,000 shows with the Redhead Express, Walker and her family have settled in Sandpoint for good. Raised in the north woods of Wisconsin, Walker comes from a large family of musicians. As one of 10 siblings who all sing, play piano and other instruments, she is excited to establish some roots and
share her love of music with the community. Taylor, a Sandpoint-based guitarist, regularly performs in the region. He sings and writes his own music, and enjoys playing various other string instruments, including the ukulele. Taylor will focus on teaching guitar and ukulele, hoping to share his love of music with Bella Noté students. New classes offered in 2020 include a Children’s Choir, Ukulele Beginning Group, Beginning Suzuki Violin and Musikgarten Family Music for Toddlers. The Children’s Choir class is for ages 5 and up. Students will have fun while building musicianship through singing. Each class will help students better understand proper singing techniques, musicianship and basic musical
skills. Students will experience many styles of music and have opportunities for both formal and informal performances in the community. The classes, taught by Walker, will meet Mondays from 4:30-5:30 p.m. beginning Jan. 6. Tuition is $80 per student. Ukulele Beginning Group is a 10-week class for ages 7 and up, offering aspiring young students the chance to build a foundation for playing the ukulele. This class will be taught by Taylor and will meet Wednesdays from 5-5:45 p.m. beginning Jan. 8. Tuition will be $90 per student. One of the benefits of the Suzuki violin method is learning with a group as well as in private lessons. The Beginning Suzuki Violin class, taught by Beth Weber, will begin Friday, Jan. 17 at 3:30
New Bella Noté instructors Scott Taylor, left, and Apryll Walker, right. Courtesy photos.
p.m. Group class rates are included in weekly private lesson prices. Call 208-610-8749 for prices, to reserve private lessons and to sign up for the group lesson. Musikgarten Family Music for Toddlers will be taught by Reese. Teaching from a curriculum used for more than 30 years around the world, Musikgarten is specifically for toddlers walking to about 3 or 4 years old. Incorporating movement, listening, playing instruments and singing, these classes help build musical skills and are meant to be a good relationship building experience for both kids and parents. Classes will be offered Mondays 8:45-9:15 a.m. To learn more about the Bella Noté instructors and classes offered, visit bellanotesandpoint.com.
A snapshot of notable live music coming up in Sandpoint Ben Klein and the Rocketeers, Dec. 30, Panida Theater
There’s just something timeless about rockabilly music from mid-century America. Ben Klein made a name for himself as an Elvis tribute artist, placing in the top 10 for Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artists in the World, among other accolades. His act Ben Klein and the Rocketeers features himself on vocals with five talented players from Spokane filling out the sound. They don’t just play Elvis tunes, though the first set will feature a tribute with some of The King’s biggest hits. Also on the docket are pre-rock ’n’ roll R&B songs from artists who forever influenced those who came after. Expect a big 1950s rock sound with songs from Elvis, Buddy Holly, Bill Haley and Johnny Cash, with occasional crooner tunes from Michael Buble, Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby. What a great way to wrap up the year! — Ben Olson 6:30 p.m. door, 7 p.m. show, all ages, $25 online and at the door. Panida Theater, 300 N. First Ave., 208-263-9191, panida.org. Listen at benkleinrocks.com.
Mobius Riff, Dec. 27, Idaho Pour Authority When it comes to variety, Mobius Riff’s catalog of songs is a smorgasbord. Comprised of local guys John Sarchio, Tom Duebendorfer, Larry Higgins and Larry Guldberg, Mobius Riff is known to play everything from classical to rock to Celtic and Middle Eastern works. The band’s choice of instruments also reflects an impressive breadth of skill: clarinet, flute, saxophone, guitar, mandolin, mandola, bass, mando-bass, electric cello, electric octave mandolin, keyboard and percussion make up the band’s sound. — Lyndsie Kiebert
READ
Anyone who hasn’t read David Sedaris’ work needs to seriously reevaluate their life choices. The humorist is best known for his droll, deadpan readings of short stories on NPR. Sedaris’ crazy family is the subject of most of his work, and he absolutely nails everything he writes about them. For those looking for a darkly-sarcastic holiday-themed entry, check out his Holidays on Ice, a collection of six Christmas stories, including “Santaland Diaries,” in which Sedaris recalls working as an elf at Macy’s during Christmas.
LISTEN
OK, I admit I can be a humbug when it comes to Christmas music. Most of it gives me hives, but occasionally a funky effort is launched that I’ll try out. She & Him is the unlikely pairing of country-folk-indie artist M. Ward with actress Zooey Deschanel. While I would have liked to hear more from M. Ward — an artist I absolutely love — than Deschanel on their Christmas Party album, it’s not completely terrible, just regular-awful.
WATCH
Looking for something different by way of Christmas movies? Consider In Bruges, a witty dark comedy starring Colin Farrell and Ralph Fiennes. When two Irish hitmen are ordered to hide out in the strange fairytale city of Bruges after a botched job, the thugs explore the Christmastime city and generally get into mischief (the scene in which Farrell karate-chops a coked-up racist dwarf is one of the highlights of this fascinating Christmas-y film).
5-7 p.m., FREE, 21+. Idaho Pour Authority, 203 Cedar St., 208-5977096, idahopourauthority.com. December 24, 2019 /
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From Northern Idaho News, Dec. 24, 1907
SKATING CARNIVAL A DECIDED SUCCESS The masked skating carnival at the Rink Opera house on Friday night was largely attended by some of our best citizens. The element largely predominating was the young people, of course, and that perfect order and decorum maintained, goes without saying. The carnival had long been advertised to partake of a contest nature, the two winners to receive a prize of free admission during the coming skating season. The skaters were masked until 10 oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;clock when it was announced that judges would be selected from the audience by the management during the next thirty minutes, who would decide upon the winners. Messrs. Jens, Mattheinsen and Arnold, accepted the call to pass upon the merits of the different costumes worn by the maskers, and after the throng had passed and repassed a score of times the judges announced that they were ready to render their decision. The first pointed out as the most original fanciful and striking costume was the one impersonating Dinah in her cake-walk toggery. He (he had short hair, so we knew she was he) was asked to stand before the judges. The judges then pointed out a young lady whom they thought the best sustained character on the floor, a western cowboy girl. She was asked to take her place beside Dinah, the cake walker, and then both were requested to unmask. The gentleman proved to be B.C. Rutherford of the Humbird office and the lady was Miss M. Darnell. The judges were puzzled to determine whether the best sustained prize should go to the cowboy girl or to one of the two Dutch characters, but a vote cast gave it to Miss Darnell. 22 /
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Crossword Solution
Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s be honest: isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a lot of what we call tap-dancing really just nerves?
Copyright www.mirroreyes.com
CROSSWORD ACROSS
Woorf tdhe Week
esculent
/ES-kyuh-luhnt/
[adjective] 1. suitable for use as food; edible.
“Everything in her esculent garden can be added to the dinner table.”
Corrections: In last week’s story about the new outdoor recreation center at Pine St. Woods, I neglected to mention Sandpoint Nordic Club as a co-sponsor of the event. My apologies. If you haven’t checked out this great club, give them a look: sandpointnordic.com. -BO
1. Film 6. Cain’s brother 10. Give as an example 14. Faulty 15. Exploded star 16. Poems 17. Staggers 18. 1 1 1 1 19. A young lady 20. Act of showing affection 22. Infiltrator 23. Not nays 24. Andean animals 26. Listen 30. Beer 31. Hankering 63. Forearm bone 32. Unit of land 64. Head 33. Large town 65. Yes 35. Maxim 66. Encounter 39. Put away a knife or 67. Teller of untruths sword 41. Denoting a numerical 68. Gain knowledge 69. To be, in old Rome order 70. L L L L 43. Hunt illegally 71. Notes 44. Fizzy drink 46. Short sleeps DOWN 47. Little bit 1. Construct 49. Scarlet 2. Portent 50. Delight 3. Competed 51. Verdigris 4. Small island 54. Radar signal 56. 64 in Roman numerals 5. An analytic literary composition 57. School of thought
Solution on page 22 6. Abnormalities 7. Agueweed 8. Not odd 9. Finally 10. Dominating 11. Manner of speaking 12. Electrical pioneer 13. S S S S 21. Stretch 25. Its symbol is Pb 26. Metal fastener 27. Reflected sound 28. District 29. Restart 34. Swiss-style singers 36. Rectal 37. Stare
38. If not 40. Part of a comparison 42. Audio communications 45. Relating to an orbit 48. Speckle 51. Feather 52. Wheel shafts 53. Prongs 55. Sacred hymn 58. Salute 59. Curved molding 60. Baby buggy 61. Protagonist 62. Cravings
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