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FOR SANDPOINT LAWMAKERS PROPOSE ALCOHOL SALES FOR HISTORIC THEATERS SEN . CRAPO PLAN S TO '0/ N HALL MEETINGS IN NORTH IDAHO MEDICAID EXPANSION ADVANCES IN THE LEGISLATURE
Always Something N
ew!
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(wo)MAN compiled by
Susan Drinkard
on the street
Is skiing dangerous nowadays? People have spoken about skiers crashing into them on the mountain or of close calls. “I am a ski bum. I spent yesterday with the ski patrol assistant director. She did not mention an increase in accidents. I haven’t had any close calls.” Richard Howell Self-employed Ponderay
“I hear of people who have had close calls, but most of the snowboarders I know are courteous to others on the hill.” Mary Miller Teacher Sagle Skiing is like driving a car; there is always some kind of risk. I myself have not had any close calls this season, but I have only been on the mountain 14 times. It can be as dangerous as any other sport involving speed.” Katie Campbell Beer and wine manager Sandpoint “Skiing is dangerous. I blew out my knee one time. It is dangerous when people who don’t have the skills to control their speed put others at risk. I recently had a close call when a young man would not stop and I had to quickly move out of his way, and so did a lot of other people.” Dannielle Cave Thompson Licensed social worker Sandpoint “I don’t think it is any more or less dangerous than any other outdoor sport. All you can do is take control over your own ability and pay attention to your environment.” Rose Olson Bakery manager Winter Ridge Sandpoint
DEAR READERS,
Can everyone still feel their fingers and toes? Whew, it’s been an interesting few weeks with colder than average temperatures and more snow forecasted in the coming days. Bundle up and drive safe out there. Can you believe the first day of spring is only three weeks away? I wasn’t able to do my delivery route today, so special thanks to Tom Prez for stepping in and handling the bike deliveries in Sandpoint this week. When it’s cold and the wind is blowing, it’s downright miserable being a paperboy. Speaking of misery, more hate propaganda has been going around to some of our advertisers. We’re tired of giving this knucklehead attention, so we’ll keep it simple and remind you all to inform the Sandpoint Police if you receive a letter that looks suspicious, and let us know too so we can keep track of who is getting these. Wildflower Day Spa was most recently targeted with a ridiculously fake mailer sent out because they advertised with us. Do us a favor and give them some of your business to show this anonymous coward that we don’t stand for this nonsense here. It’s a shame that it has come to this. We have been repeatedly harassed and targeted simply because we have shed a light on an individual who has been spreading hate-filled and racist propaganda in North Idaho, as well as the rest of the nation. What I find especially cowardly is the fact that this anonymous individual (yes, we know who it is) chooses not to direct their frustration to us, but continues to harass our advertisers, as if it actually will have an effect. It doesn’t. Actually, it has the opposite effect. Every time we are made the subject of harassment, we sign a new client. Every time hate propaganda is sent out against us, we receive donations from the general public with promises to send more the next time we are attacked. It’s not working, dude. Get a life and move on. Your sad attempts to impugn my reputation and put this newspaper out of business have failed and will continue to fail. I’m sorry we have to continue giving this our attention, because it’s exactly what this individual is seeking: attention. But it’s important to face this anonymous hate-propaganda head on and remind our readers that I am proud of this newspaper, proud of my staff and the group of contributors who make it happen each and every week. We have no problems holding our heads high. We have nothing to hide or be ashamed of. We don’t make much money doing this, but that’s not why we do it. We all believe in the power of the free press: to speak truth to power, to shed light on the issues of the day, to point out injustice when we see it and to help support an informed community at all costs. The fact that we have to endure this constant harassment is symptomatic of a larger problem going on in this country right now. The fact that our president has repeatedly referred to media outlets he doesn’t like as the “enemy of the American people” doesn’t help matters. History will not be kind to those who follow this line of thinking. Of that I am certain. In the meantime, we will keep doing our jobs publishing this newspaper each and every week.
-Ben Olson, Publisher
READER 111 Cedar Street, Suite 9 Sandpoint, ID 83864 (208)265-9724
www.sandpointreader.com Publisher: Ben Olson ben@sandpointreader.com Editorial: Cameron Rasmusson cameron@sandpointreader.com Lyndsie Kiebert lyndsie@sandpointreader.com Zach Hagadone (emeritus) John Reuter (emeritus) Advertising: Jodi Berge Jodi@sandpointreader.com Contributing Artists: Contributing Writers: Cameron Rasmusson, Ben Olson, Submit stories to: stories@sandpointreader.com Printed weekly at: Griffin Publishing Spokane, Wash. Subscription Price: $95 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.
Sandpoint Reader letter policy: The Sandpoint Reader welcomes letters to the editor on all topics. Requirements: –No more than 400 words –Letters may not concon tain excessive profanity or libelous material. Please elevate the discussion. Letters will be edited to comply with the above requirements. Opinions expressed in these pages are those of the writers, not necessarily the publishers. Email letters to: letters@sandpointreader.com Check us out on the web at: www.sandpointreader.com Like us on Facebook. About the Cover
This week’s cover photo was taken by Cameron Reagan. “I love to take pictures in my free time and I’ve always had a dream of becoming a full time photographer. I captured this beauty as he swooped down from a nearby tree to catch himself supper!” See more of Cameron’s work on Instagram: @CameronReaganPhotography. February 28, 2019 /
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NEWS
Bill proposes alcohol sales for historic theaters By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff The folks at the Panida Theater will likely be toasting state officials if a bill permitting beer and wine sales at historic theaters is signed into law. The bill, which cleared the Idaho House of Representatives last Thursday, has advanced to the Senate for evaluation in committee. If signed into law, the bill will allow historic theaters to serve beer and wine without undergoing frustrating workarounds for movies and events. The bill requires theaters to be constructed prior to 1950 and be listed by the National Register of Historic Places to serve alcohol. “Many of these historical theaters are struggling to stay afloat,” said Rep. Mat Erpelding, who introduced the legislation. “They have to pay for things like repairs, insurance and movie rentals. I’ve heard from theaters all over the state, and they are so excited to see that we are working to fix this problem. They are excited to see that we are giving them another tool to help keep these buildings operating. I hope that
I can report back to them with good news.” That’s music to Panida Theater Executive Director Patricia Walker’s ears. She has been frustrated for years by the need to generate catering permits for theater events. The upshot is an expensive, time-consuming process that enabled beer and wine sales at some events while leaving attendees of other events and movies out in the cold. Walker said she worked with Rep. Sage Dixon, R-Ponderay, who relayed local concerns as the bill took shape. “Sage Dixon knew this was a challenge for the Panida, because in order for us to do it, we had to get catering permits,” said Walker. “It’s been a huge financial burden for us.” Under the bill’s terms, the Panida Theater would be able to sell beer and wine through its own legal authority, meaning that alcohol sales would be available at all Panida events without the need for expensive permits. “It’s a huge process and a very arduous one that takes a long time to get through the paperwork,” said Walker. Should the bill pass the Sen-
The Panida Theater will be one of the historic theaters in Idaho to take advantage of the new law. Photo by Ben Olson. ate and be signed by Gov. Brad Little, it will also mean a bump in revenue for the owners or managers of historic theaters. That’s especially valuable in a time when theaters face more challenges than ever. “The reality for historic theaters today is that it’s a tough world to be successful in. It seems that all of the costs have
gone up: insurance, building repairs (and old theaters have plenty of those), movie rentals, advertising,” said Panida board member Susan Bates-Harbuck in a press release. “With Netflix, Hulu and Amazon, not as many people are realizing the enjoyment to be gotten from watching a movie with others. There you are in a beautiful
setting, laughing with others, sharing the feelings that movies bring to us, and then talking about it on the way out into the lobby, maybe even to the coffee shop afterwards. The theaters need all the possible sources of income they can find.”
Medicaid expansion advances in Legislature By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff Slowly but surely, Medicaid expansion is making its way through the Idaho Legislature. Funding for the expansion, which was mandated by voters through a ballot initiative with more than 60-percent support, was approved by the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee. A collaborative committee of Idaho House and Senate members that makes financial 4 /
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decisions for the state budget, JFAC voted unanimously Wednesday to fund Medicaid expansion through the Millennium fund. “I am ecstatic to see that the members of the committee are respecting the will of the people,” said Rep. Sally Toone, a Medicaid expansion supporter. “This vote sends a clear message to all the legislators. We have found a funding mechanism and are ready to
implement Medicaid Expansion. Idahoans need access to quality health care. There is no time for any more nonsense.” Lawmakers and activists alike called for Medicaid expansion to clear the Legislature unimpeded and without any additional requirements tacked on. But conservative legislators ideologically opposed to the expansion of the federal program made the case in recent weeks for blocking
the initiative legislatively. Last week, two bills designed to halt Medicaid expansion failed to advance out of committee, with the House Health and Welfare Committee voting 7-5 against them. The Idaho Statesman reports that the first attempt to curb Medicaid expansion was a complete repeal of the law. The second repealed Medicaid expansion years down the road if it didn’t produce predicted
local and state savings. Republican Reps. Julianne Young and John Green led the charge to freeze Medicaid expansion progress in committee. They argued that voters weren’t fully informed of the expansion and its implications when they approved the ballot measure. Committee members largely rejected the argument by killing the Medicaid expansion repeal bills in committee.
NEWS
Police identify murder suspect Crapo to hold
By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff
Sandpoint officials have released the identification of a suspect in the 2018 Meandering Moose shooting. Fabian Rebeterano, 40, is suspected in the Aug. 6 shooting that left Blas Salvador Alonzo “Duke” Dias dead. He was shot by a lone male, who fired after Dias opened the door to his Meandering Moose apartment at 317 Marion Ave. The shooter then fled on foot, and Dias was rushed to Bonner General Health, where he later died of his wounds. According to Sandpoint City Administrator Jennifer Stapleton, local police identified Rebeterano early in
the investigation through a combination of “multiple search warrants, video surveillance obtained from the area and evidence recovered near the scene, including a hand gun.” “We have been working very closely with Bonner County Prosecutor Louis Marshall and his office to bring this case to a conclusion,” said Sandpoint Police Chief Corey Coon in a press release. “We appreciate the public’s patience and support as the Sandpoint Police
public meetings By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff
Fabian Rebeterano detectives have been vigorously working this case.”
North Idaho residents have a chance to get up to speed on the issues at a series of town halls with U.S. Sen. Mike Crapo. On April 2, the senator will hold meetings at Kootenai City Hall in Kootenai and Dover City Hall in Dover. Locals will have a second chance to check in with Crapo when he hosts another town hall at the Columbia Bank building on Oct. 9. Crapo’s focus is on hitting Idaho’s unincorporated cities
Sen. Mike Crapo after hosting more than 200 town halls in incorporated cities.
BOCC updates EMS advisory board resolution By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff
Bonner County Commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to update the resolution which establishes an Emergency Management Services advisory committee. The use of a reinvigorated EMS advisory committee has been a big topic of discussion amidst concerns about the BOCC moving EMS operations in a different direction. The most recently active EMS advisory committee went ad-hoc in 2016 due to low attendance. Deputy Clerk Jessi Webster presented the changes to the existing resolution, which included the appointment of the current EMS chief as the chair of the committee, made meetings quarterly rather than monthly and eliminated “applications and peer nominations” as methods for choosing committee members. Instead, the BOCC will advertise the open committee positions for two weeks and accept letters
of interest. The BOCC-chosen members must include representatives from transport services, a local fire district, the medical community and one member of the public at large — a requirement established in the original resolution. Like all other advisory committees, EMS advisory meetings will be open to the public. “This isn’t something different than any other advisory committee that the commissioners have,” Webster said. “In fact, this same wording, almost identical, is in the solid waste advisory bylaws, airport bylaws, waterways, natural resources — any other advisory committee that we have, this wording is within the resolution creating it.” Dave VanNatter of the West Pend Oreille Fire District suggested the BOCC send letters to the most recent advisory committee members, thanking them for their previous service and personally inviting them to submit letters of interest. Local man Doug Paterson expressed
concern that the commissioners would select committee members who would support a change of EMS operations at the whim of the BOCC. “All these changes to the committee sound reasonable and not all that dramatic, but what I find dramatic is that you have an existing board and you’re going to dismiss all of those members and reappoint, at your discretion, entirely new members,” Paterson said. Commissioner Dan McDonald said that when the BCEMS advisory committee was originally created in 2005, the intent was to workshop an entirely new EMS system. He said a committee created under the newly-updated resolution would be focused only on improving “operational issues” within the existing system. Commissioner Jeff Connolly argued that the advisory committee members last appointed were not legitimate because they weren’t appointed by the commis-
A Bonner County EMS ambulance. Courtesy photo. sioners, as county statute requires. “Because of the way this is such a convoluted mess at this point, we’re going to format this in the same way that we do
all our other boards,” Connolly said. “That way we clarify it, and there shouldn’t be any question moving forward. I think that’s the right move: to clarify.” February 28, 2019 /
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We Are Fortunate... Dear Editor, We’re fortunate to have a successful school district with very competent, dedicated staff and teachers. Ideally, the state would fully support schools but they fall far short, leaving it up to the communities that benefit from quality education to step up. This operating levy replaces the expiring one and continues the efficient operation of our district. My grandchildren are long graduated from LPOSD, and all are successful adults. It’s now my turn to vote for other people’s children and grandchildren to ensure that our communities continue to thrive by producing graduates to fill skilled jobs, be our future leaders and be responsible, involved citizens. Our founding fathers, nationally and in Idaho, recognized that public education is essential for our democracy. A “Yes” vote carries on their legacy and helps our schools produce young adults prepared for the 21st century. Steve Lockwood Sandpoint
Medicaid Expansion is an Economic Boon to Idaho... Dear Editor, After the state Supreme Court handed the Idaho Freedom Foundation a resounding defeat, it appeared that the people of Idaho’s ballot initiative to expand Medicaid preventative health care services for some 91,000 low-income Idaho residents would soon be in effect. However, opponents have tried to tweak the law voters had enabled by a 61-percent vote and that Gov. Brad Little has said would be one of his top priorities for 2019. Some 90 percent of the cost will be funded by the federal government, returning tax dollars that are sent out of state. It’s the legislature’s job to identify about $10.8 million for the state’s share for the next fiscal year. (Gov. Little has said money is available from the state’s Millennium fund, a tobacco settlement.) The expansion is also expected to create about 5,000 new jobs — many in the health care industry — and generate $700 million in economic activity each year, according to supporters of the measure. It is expected to take effect by the start of 2020. Idaho’s Medicaid expansion will be tracked as a “stand-alone” item so that lawmakers can see how much it is costing and where the money is going, according to Matt Wimmer, Medicaid Division Administrator. With Medicaid expansion, there
will be decreases in the cost of some other state programs (including emergency room and indigent health care needs -- some funded by county taxpayers), according to Wimmer. In addressing discussions about adding new requirements to enroll in Medicaid, such as work requirements, “We should be making it simple for eligible Idahoans to enroll in health care, not setting up roadblocks,” says Lauren Necochea, director of Idaho Voices for Children. “Currently, Idahoans who are on Medicaid lose their health coverage if they make too much money. As soon as you start to work, you’re going to lose your Medicaid benefit. Under expansion, they could make up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level without losing coverage, and then, as they move up the ladder, they can transition smoothly into a health exchange product,” she adds. It’s apparent that Idaho’s Medicaid expansion is not only a humanitarian but also an economic boon to our state. Jim Ramsey Sandpoint
I Support the School Levy... Dear Editor, I am writing to express my support for the Supplemental Levy and to encourage others to vote YES for our kids and our community on March 12. My name is Rick Dalessio. I moved to Sandpoint, with my wife Barbara Buchanan and our two preschool age daughters, in 1986. I worked as a Bonner County educator for 26 years. I began my career as a science teacher at Priest River Junior High. I served as a principal in Priest River, Clark Fork and Sandpoint. I retired as principal of Lake Pend Oreille High School in 2013. I have truly observed firsthand the incredible progress the LPOSD has achieved over the last 30 years. When I first became a principal in the early 1990s, the district was struggling. Morale was at an all-time low. Teachers displayed and distributed bumper stickers reading “Pray for Me, I Teach in Bonner County.” So much has changed for the better. The school board and administration are stable, engaged and fiscally sound. Graduation rates and test scores are up. Every school in the district offers innovative programs and experiential learning. The supplemental levy is a continuation of the instructional levies our community has passed every two years for the past 19 years. It funds 300 full- and part-time positions. It pays for all athletic and extra-curricular activities. It provides funding for technology, textbooks and curricular materials. Additionally, it will provide
critical funding to bring our teachers’ salaries in line with those throughout our region. Excellent schools require excellent teachers. I urge you to join me in voting YES on March 12. Rick Dalessio Sandpoint
What’s Wrong With Talking to your Neighbors...? Dear Editor, Tom Cleveland of the Bonner County Republican Central Committee, and author of the resolution that ended Bonner County participation in the Bonner Regional Team, said of the BRT that “It’s brought in as a charade, and then one day you wake up and you’ve got the shackles and chains around you.” The only shackles and chains I see are those that have been placed on the ability of the county commissioners to make informed decisions for the benefit of the citizens of Bonner County. The BRT is composed of “elected and appointed public officials from incorporated cities in Bonner County.” Elected officials are chosen at the ballot box by the citizens of Bonner County, and appointed officials report to those elected officials. We all live in the same county. It’s our region. What is it about sharing information concerning common problems with those chosen as their representatives by their own constituents that worries two of our commissioners? For Commissioner Bradshaw, sharing information with other Bonner County citizens is regionalization and that is another word for socialism. Sharing information about common problems with your neighbors in the same county is not socialism, it’s just common sense. I agree with Commissioner Connolly, who said, “What I am fearful of is people who twist the facts to scare people that are uninvolved in these things.” Maybe it’s time the voters of Bonner County ask just who’s twisting the facts and why. Ron Kilgore Sagle
Schools are the Most Important Part of Our Community... Dear Editor, Did you know that 83 percent of Idaho school districts rely on local levies to keep their schools open? This means that the people of Idaho want more funding for schools than what is provided by the state. Idaho school districts have to go to the voters in their districts every two years for M & O levies. Once
again, this is the case for the Lake Pend Oreille School District. 1)The passage of this levy will fund 30 percent of our district’s costs. 2) The levy will fund sound class size, secondary electives and small rural schools. Our school district is unique in the state in that it has many small rural schools, Northside Elementary, Southside Elementary, Sagle Elementary, Hope Elementary, Kootenai Elementary and Clark Fork High School. Each of these schools is the core of the community in those areas. It doesn’t matter which local area you live in, because you know someone who has children in those schools or maybe you know someone who works in one of the schools. 3) The levy will fund curriculum and instructional materials, as well as professional development. There are high school students, middle school students, elementary students, gifted students, students with special needs, and home school students. Some of these students are college bound while others are on a vocational or technical education track. We have teachers who specialize in all of these areas and more. 4) The levy will fund the technology network, hardware and software licenses and the entire technology staff. In today’s world technology education and use is necessary for every student to succeed. 5) The levy will fund one-third of ALL district staff, approximately 300 full-time and part-time staff positions. Due to our rural area we have many bus drivers, who drive hundreds of miles every day. We also have counselors, school nurses, librarians, cooks, secretaries and bookkeepers, tech support personnel, teacher’s aides, custodians and much needed maintenance personnel, who keep all of our aging schools running. They all make up our local communities and contribute to our local economy. They are committed to supporting our students in every way they can. 6) The levy will fund ALL academic and athletic extracurricular activities. There are football and basketball games, volleyball and track teams, wrestling teams, plays, spelling bees, debates, bands, orchestras, and dance teams with many competitions our students participate in. We believe our schools are the most important part of our community and encourage you to vote “yes” on Tuesday, March 12th. Sincerely, Jon and Connie Burkhart Hope
Nat’l Emergency isn’t at Southern Border, it’s in Oval Office... Dear Editor, The majority of law abiding, tax paying Americans with even the slightest bit of common sense know that the true national emergency we face is not at our southern borders but rather at the threshold of the oval office. Trump insists on having his wall so let’s let him have it AND he can pay for it. After all, by proudly not paying the IRS his due and bankrupting numerous companies but keeping HIS cash, he should have plenty of spare change hidden somewhere. It’s a win-win situation. Trump can have his wall and we honest, respectful Americans won’t have to worry about the next “government” shutdown. Works for me. Jack Blake Bonners Ferry
Please Support the School Levy... Dear Editor, Because of the way our schools are funded or not funded by the state, the time has come to once again approve a levy. This two-year levy is roughly $12 million dollars per year which will replace the expiring levy and is NOT a permanent levy. So, what is covered with this levy? For starters a third of all district staff which numbers 300 full and part time positions will be funded. Additionally, proper class size, secondary electives and small rural schools are also continued. This levy is 30 percent of the school district’s annual revenue; that blows me away and is such a shout out to the state to fund schools fully. All academic and extracurricular activities (math competitions and sports for example) are funded with this levy; all curriculum and instructional materials as well as professional development and instructional mentoring are paid for with these levy dollars. Technology internal network upgrades, fiber network connectivity, hardware, software licenses and entire technology department staff are all paid for with these levy dollars. Our terrific teachers and staff will receive a wage increase with these levy dollars. I checked out the levy calculator and my property taxes would increase by less than $7 per month. Please join me in voting YES on March 12 to continue our excellent educational offerings in the LPOSD. Carrie Logan Sandpoint February 28, 2019 /
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Thanks for Supporting Schools and Our Kids... Dear Editor, I would like to take a minute to thank our community for its continued support of LPOSD and its programs. As a parent and activities director at Sandpoint High School, I see the positive benefits activities provide for students in our community. Basic funding of sports, clubs, music and drama at Sandpoint HS, Sandpoint MS and Clark Fork is provided through the maintenance and operations levy. There is no state funding for activities. These programs, activities transportation, coaches’ salaries, state meals and city facility rental are supported through the levy. Like many of you, I’m not fond of a levy every two years. The reality is local tax measures are the only way we can approach proper funding for many educational opportunities in Idaho. Ninety-three out of 115, or 80.87 percent, of Idaho school districts have a levy, bond or both in place. Our youth deserve these opportunities and it’s not “fear mongering” to clarify what happens if funding was lost. I would encourage you to think positively, ask questions, look at FACTS, make an educated decision, and VOTE March 12. So again, thank you for helping provide opportunities for our kids. We are a strong, vibrant community that supports students in a variety of ways. I am proud to be part of it and love that my children get to experience it. Kris Knowles Activities Director SHS Sandpoint
School District Haters... Dear Editor, Here we are again, another proposed school levy and another letter writing campaign by anti-school district voters. I will probably be wrong in a few cases, but I’d be willing to make some bets about their backgrounds: I would bet good money that most, if not all of them were educated in a public school system somewhere with someone else paying the bills. Other good bets would be that few, if any, of them have children or grandchildren in our school system or have ever worked as an educator. It is sad that they choose to ignore the long-term benefits that quality education brings to all of us in favor of short-term savings for their personal pocket books. Ken Thacker Sagle
I Believe in Public Education... Dear fellow parents, grandparents and concerned citizens, 8 /
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Since Idaho has rather convoluted laws regarding paying for education for our children, it important we all become familiar with the costs and quality of schooling they receive. The school board we elected to provide the very best educational opportunities, have studied and evaluated the needs we have. They have presented well-prepared information for us to use in our decision in how to vote. They have and continue to do an outstanding job, all done with their volunteer time! If each of us would spend one tenth of our free time to investigate the needs we would support their efforts and vote for the levy. I have no children, grandchildren in our schools. However I believe in outstanding public education as this is the foundation on which the students lives will be built. The alternative creates more financial drains on all of us if we do not support our local teachers, administrators, school boards and most of all the future for children. Vote YES on the levy. Marty Bowne Sandpoint
LPOSD = Continued Success... Dear Editor, On March 12 our community can vote on the supplemental levy that occurs every two years. The resulting funds support almost a third of the operating budget for LPOSD. We are very fortunate to live, work and raise families in a community that supports education and values success. Without question administration, teachers and staff are operating a successful business that is Lake Pend Oreille School District. My wife and I have raised two children that have graduated from SHS and they’ve clearly benefited from the passionate/talented teachers and coaches that are committed to molding students to succeed and compete in life … thank you! This levy clearly offers voters the opportunity to support LPOSD staff so that they can likewise support their families and earn the competitive/living wage they deserve. Currently a LPOSD first-year teacher with a college diploma earns $35,800 and the top attainable salary with a master’s degree is $65,800. Compare Newport School District, 29 miles to the west, they reward teachers with a $43,100 first-year salary and $81,300 top attainable salary. Our teachers warrant better, and this levy will close the gap, $40,000 and $70,000 respectively when we vote yes. This decision is critical to retain, recruit, and reward the quality teachers that our community needs to continue the success of LPOSD. Please educate yourself on the
performance of LPOSD, learn the true facts about this levy, continue to support LPOSD students/staff, recognize this vote will influence the future of our community, impact our businesses, impact 900-plus LPOSD employees, and affect 3845 students. Please vote yes March 12. Kendon Perry Sagle
Woodward Steamrolls LPOSD... Dear Editor, You will have to look long and wide to find a tax that Shawn Woodward does not approve of. Woodward is the “CEO” of one of the three largest employers in the county, the Lake Pend Oreille School District, with a claimed employment of 500 to 900. The wide disparity between employee numbers is the result of embellishment to gain levy funding, but State Department of Education annual data consistently place LPOSD’s employee numbers around 550. During his tenure, the biennial supplemental levy increased from $15.7M in 2015 to $17M in 2017 and now, in 2019, to $25.4M. Simultaneously, LPOSD’s biennial budget grew from $31M to $32.8M to $34.9M. Note that during this time frame the budget increase was $3.3M, yet local funding, plus 7-percent increases in state funding and career-ladder teacher salary funding show an increase of $9.7M and a very disproportionate amount in this biennial levy. Wearing his hat as a Bonner General Hospital District Trustee, Woodward has voted an annual 3 percent increase to support public tax funding of BGH, Inc., which the Idaho Attorney General’s Office in a written opinion last October found to be illegal. This increased funding of BGH, Inc., has contributed to the annual profits of the “nonprofit” hospital averaging $981,000 over the past three years. Woodward is, by all measures, a progressive liberal and a champion of growing the cost of government. He seems to have relinquished any grasp of the plight of less privileged families who send their children to his government schools and the hospital while struggling with the tax burden he places on them. Louis Perry Sandpoint
Vote Against the Levy... Dear Editor, The Reader stories in the Feb. 21 edition, paint a problematic distrust offered to the constituents of the LPOSD by Superintendent Shawn “Taxman” Woodward, also an embattled hospital taxing district trustee. On page 15, “LPOSD officials make
the case for levy renewal,” a biennial levy renewal would be $17 million, while this levy is an enormous $25.4M levy, a 49-percent levy increase of $7.4 million, that is relatively permanent. “LPOSD superintendent interviewing in Wenatchee” describes “Taxman” Woodward scheming to saddle much of Bonner County with gigantic taxes as he desires to helicopter out of LPOSD into another school district. Woodward’s un-convicted commitment to the “community,” at a time when he seeks to fundamentally change taxpayer obligations and the LPOSD is concerning. Woodward falsely claims that “significant misunderstanding makes it difficult to communicate the facts.” Facts stand alone and are easily communicated, for instance: 569 employees, not 900! “It’s difficult to afford a home on a (starting $35,000) teacher’s salary.” Sheriff detention deputies start at $42,000 and work many more riskfilled days a year than do teachers! “High degree of staff turnover?” Please present the departure numbers for first three year employees and three years of retirees. Is LPOSD suggesting misleading conditions? “No such decision has been made” of a 2019 facility levy! LPOSD paid engineers to produce a report identifying a $39 million facility levy cost. No decision is disingenuous wordsmithing! Vote against this March 12 levy. A May levy election will provide greater clarity to the legislature’s funding intent and the disposition of the self-serving superintendent. Daniel Rose Samuels
We Are Supporters...
Dear Editor, We are enthusiastic supporters of the March 12 supplemental levy. LPOSD, like 83 percent of school districts in Idaho, requires a supplemental levy to fund its operating budget. It is our duty and in our self interest to invest in public schools. Teacher salaries in Idaho are near the bottom of the nation with a ranking of 44 out of 50 states. To recruit and retain outstanding teachers, specialists and para-educators to work with and help our students achieve high standards we need to provide competitive salaries. We are grateful for community support for this essential levy to ensure our youth receive an excellent education as a foundation for success in life. We support our students by voting yes for public schools. Funding public education is an investment in our future and our democracy, please vote yes on March 12. Linda and Mark Heisel Hope
Science Responds... Dear Editor, I feel compelled to respond to Cort Gifford’s misrepresentation of my own words in his letter Climate Change Denial. I said “We need an effective climate policy to accelerate the transition. A national revenue-neutral market-based policy that does not grow government, hurt the economy, or restrict freedom.” That policy is the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act (energyinnovationact. org), which has been introduced in Congress with bipartisan support. I absolutely did NOT say “we don’t need capitalism.” I said “we don’t need fossil fuels any more.” I showed a Forbes article stating “Want the cheapest electricity? Build solar and wind farms, not coal power plants”. I described electric and hydrogen fuel-cell cars, buses, trucks, boats, trains and aircraft that are already cheaper to operate than fossil fuel vehicles, and will soon be cheaper to purchase too. Mr. Gifford quoted Gavin Schmidt regarding weather prediction. Limits to weather prediction have no bearing on projecting future climate change as the composition of the atmosphere changes. The latter is simply a consequence of the energy balance of the Earth: If heat is applied to it through changes in the atmospheric composition, the Earth will accumulate energy, and that energy accumulation will eventually result in changes in surface temperature. Weather prediction is like predicting the motion of bubbles in a pot of boiling water; climate projection is like knowing the water in the pot will warm when the pot is heated. Dr. Steven Ghan Richland, Wash.
Got something to say? Write a letter to the editor. We accept letters under 400 words that do not contain profanity or libelous content. Please elevate the conversation.
PERSPECTIVES
A path forward for county EMS
OPEN 11:30 am
GAME ROOM UPSTAIRS
County Fire Districts, Volunteer Ambulance Agency Leaders and Bonner General Health Emergency Department Resolve to Develop EMS Plan By Mark Sauter Reader Contributor The Bonner County fire chiefs and volunteer ambulance agency leaders have met and agreed to develop an EMS service delivery plan. They have teamed up with Dr. Kenneth Gramyk of the BGH Emergency Department and enlisted his support and expertise. The resolution was signed by the fire chiefs, ambulance directors and Gramyk. The plan is expected to take 60-90 days to develop and will be presented to the BOCC upon its completion. The resolution was delivered to the Board of County Commissioners at their regular meeting on Feb. 12. The resolution efforts by the fire districts and ambulance agencies have been prompted by news of a restructuring of the Bonner County Emergency Medical Services Department by the BOCC. The local press has covered some of the BOCC comments about their interests in a re-structure of BCEMS. A local radio station has hosted two interviews with the commissioner working most closely on the project. The BOCC have not officially identified the problems they have with BCEMS or the solutions they have in mind. One of the commissioners has voiced his interest in transitioning the management and staffing of BCEMS to a private non-profit ambulance provider in Boundary County. The Bonner County Fire Chiefs Association members asked to be involved in the project at a BOCC meeting in January. The meeting was initially organized to gather input for the BOCC. However, without a plan or presentation of what the BOCC is considering, the fire district and ambulance agency leaders were at a loss to provide feedback. Last week a commissioner, in a radio interview, stated a business plan for the new EMS venture has been developed. As of now, there have been no copies of the plan available for review. The emergency response leaders have
been concerned about the re-structuring effort since they learned about it last fall. The fire districts and volunteer ambulance agencies provide 24/7 critical and significant service for the county-wide EMS system. Their rapid response is what citizens expect when they dial 911. The viewpoint and experience of Gramyk of the Bonner General Health Emergency Room is of great importance for patient care and as the receiving facility for nearly all EMS transports in Bonner County. The BCFCA has encouraged the BOCC to maintain the current BCEMS service delivery model and to retain the current invaluable staff of BCEMS while the BCFCA completes their work. An important part of the BCFCA plan will be how to best utilize all of the current BCEMS employees. The leaders of the Bonner County emergency service agencies have resolved to develop an EMS plan that works for all the agencies and most importantly for the citizens and visitors of the various districts. Their plan will focus on patient care, best practices and
efficiency. The research for the plan and data collection are in progress. The plan will most likely include the utilization of existing paid and volunteer staff. Stations already owned and used by the fire and ambulance districts will be considered to reduce costs and the duplication of resources. The stations are geographically placed and should help to reduce response times. In their resolution the BCFCA vowed to reach out to all recognized stakeholders, to do an inventory of each district’s/agency’s needs and assets and to listen to the concerns of the citizens. A review of the operational and financial details of all of the County EMS providers will also be completed. Mark Sauter retired from his fire service and emergency management career in 2011. He is the elected president of the BCFCA. He works one day a week for the Selkirk FD doing fire prevention work with the community. His work with the BCFCA (and the EMS plan development) is a volunteer effort.
Laughing Matter
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
By Bill Borders
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Mad about Science:
Brought to you by:
baby chicks By Brenden Bobby Reader Columnist It’s that magical time of year again. The postal workers hear the first cheeps of spring arriving in aerated boxes, and people start coming out in droves to see the wood, tin and wire displays filling up with pine shavings and fluffy balls of cuteness. I like to do one of these articles every year, because there are always new chicken parents that are as wide-eyed and underprepared as I was my first year. Before we get started, a disclaimer: Yes, they’re cute. No, they won’t stay like that forever, so don’t buy them on a whim. Imagine how difficult it’d be from your dog or cat’s perspective if you just up and got rid of them. Chickens are just as perceptive, so if you’re not in this for the long haul then find someone who is or learn how to humanely butcher them, because I guarantee the animal shelter won’t rehome chickens and roosters. We primarily buy chickens for three factors: eggs, meat and for show. While anyone with an opposable thumb can collect eggs, everyone that owns these birds should know how to butcher them. There’s always a bare minimum 10-percent chance that one of your pullets (young hen) will end up being a cockerel (young rooster). If you incubate them yourself or buy “straight run” (the chicks were not sexed at hatching), this chance goes up. With how common roosters are, their love of crowing at every hour of every day (and 10 /
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night) and the fact that they can’t lay eggs, few people want them. The easiest thing is to just butcher it yourself. This is especially necessary if you live within the limits of a town, as you will get noise complaints and angry neighbors very quickly. You also need to know where you’re going to put them once they’re not small anymore. Their coop will be their home, and where they go to roost at night, and it will be the place that keeps them safe from predators. If you live in town, you may also want to invest in building an enclosure to keep neighborly dogs and un-neighborly predators at bay, and to keep the birds where you want them. Free range is great, until those fluffy little hooligans start crapping on your neighbor’s Camaro and you have an unenthused police officer arriving to relay a no-crapping order addressed to you. Your coop needs to have roosting bars, because chickens don’t like sleeping on the floor, and these bars should be wood; metal bars will make your chickens’ feet freeze to them during the winter. The coop also needs a small, lockable door the chickens can use to get in and out of the coop. If it’s elevated off the ground, the door needs a ramp. It also needs a door large enough for you to enter and exit so you can clean poop from the coop. You will also want nesting boxes in your coop, so the chickens have a place to lay their eggs, otherwise you’ll find them everywhere, and easter egg hunting is never fun when you do it 365.
If you’re not much of a handyman, you can buy prefab coops for anywhere from $250 to over $1000. If you’ve got the tools and the knowhow, it doesn’t take long to build one with some lumber and a little elbow grease. I converted an old 14-foot hauling trailer into a coop. Had I known what on Earth I was doing at the time, I probably could’ve spent less than $200 on it, and it comfortably houses over 30 birds currently. There are a few construction-related tips and tricks I’ll leave in the sidebar for later. If you have your farm planned out and are ready to bang it out in the spring, don’t forget to look to the present, because your birds are needy creatures, and they require things now. Before you buy any chicks, have your space ready. You will want to make a brooder, which is chickenese for a space that’s enclosed to keep the chicks in. If you’re buying ten or less, a large sterilite tub works (just don’t put the lid on it!). You will also need pine shavings to put in the bottom of the tub so the chickens can be comfortable and have traction when walking. They also need access to water, access to food, and a heat lamp that will keep their box at a comfortable 95 degrees. Luckily, you can buy all of these things at once at the farm and feed store, and the people working there will be happy to help you with everything you need. If you own other pets like cats or dogs, you will want to put the brooder some place these animals won’t bother them. The baby chicks are like
little chicken nuggets to most dogs and cats, and there are few things more heartbreaking than a box full of baby animals reduced to bits and pieces. Cats are easy to keep out, because you can fit the top of the brooder with a wire rack (always use half-inch hardware cloth.) Dogs are a different story, because they can easily dismantle a brooder setup or even scare the chicks to death. High stress can
cause the poor little buggers to just give up and die. If you’re just starting your journey or are a seasoned vet, I’d still suggest checking out “Storey’s Guide to Poultry” at the library. There are a few other really good titles surrounding it, but the “Storey’s Guide” books are my go-to farm resource. I’ll let you get back to fawning over the cuteness, now. Good luck!
Random Corner chicks?
g baby Don’t know much about raisinBy Brenden Bobby
We can help!
•Wooden closet rods make perfect roosting bars for a coop. •Coops need to have ventilation, but not drafts. Before putting your chickens into the coop, you can usually climb in, close it up and feel how the air flows through it. •Heat lamps are the number-one cause of coop fires. Never use a heat lamp in a prefab coop, as they are generally extremely flammable. •You can add axles and wheels to the bottom of your coop and run if you want to move the coop around with a tractor or ATV. This is great to control weeds and grasses without losing track of chickens. •Water freezing in the winter? Heated waterers are your safest bet. Otherwise, you can use a large Christmas cookie tin with one side opened up and a light fixture and incandescent bulb inside. Keep any heated waterer elevated and out of pine shavings to avoid fire. •If your sterilite tub is too small for your chicks, you can turn a cheap bookcase into a brooder by placing it face-up on the floor and removing the shelves. Just don’t try to turn it back into a bookcase when you’re done. •You can turn the sterilite tub into a feeder when you’re done with it by cutting holes in the sides and feeding elbowed PVC pipes in. •Need lumber in a pinch? A reciprocating saw with a carbide-edged blade can turn a wooden pallet into a pile of lumber in 15 minutes. •Four pallets screwed together makes a perfect compost bin. •Raccoons and skunks can exploit a gap as small as 3 inches across. A halfinch hardware cloth can remedy that. •Use metal trash cans to hold feed. Mice can squeeze into plastic containers and ruin a whole batch of food. •Use old ropes or bungees to suspend heads of iceberg lettuce, then watch your chickens as hilarity ensues. •Raptor problems can be solved by hanging old CDs and DVDs from tree limbs or off the roof of your coop. Reflecting sunlight will disorient and scare away raptors. •When cleaning the coop or brooder, save money and keep your birds safe and healthy: use white vinegar instead of chemical cleaners.
PERSPECTIVES The
Late Night Buddhist Just desserts
By Scott Taylor Reader Columnist One of my favorite bands, The Avett Brothers, has a knack for writing wry, honest lyrics that confront the human condition. Their hit “Head Full of Doubt/ Road Full of Promise” presents the line “When nothing is owed, deserved, or expected/ and your life doesn’t change with the man who’s elected...” (It was released in 2009) Many of us live our lives believing that if we do a favor for someone they owe us one in return, that those who are “good” deserve reward and those who are “bad” deserve punishment, and that we should expect certain rewards or punishment based on our (or others’) behaviors or deeds. Buddhist philosophy would teach us that this thinking, while seemingly compassionate and just, is dangerous to our happiness. (If you’re thinking, “Then what is karma?” a column on that is forthcoming). When we send our minds in the
direction of expected outcomes and deservedness we travel a path rife with the probability of disappointment. We unconsciously decide that if our expectations aren’t met, if we aren’t recognized or repaid for our generosity, if we aren’t rewarded for our good deeds or hard work, we will be unhappy. Buddhist thought would teach us to discard these notions, enjoy the happiness that happens and not expect outcomes. And if Buddhism can be summed up simply
in a few words, those could be “Walk the path of happiness, not the path of unhappiness.” I went to a small college (NCAA Div. III; no athletic scholarships) with high expectations from myself and the college coach to play basketball. When, in tryouts, it became apparent that I did not possess Bill Walton’s height, Charles Barkley’s power, Muggsy Bogues’ quickness or Michael Jordan’s athleticism, I was cut from the team (I considered myself to have Larry Bird-like skill and savvy. Can you tell I grew up in the ‘70s and ‘80s?). I was disappointed. I was devastated. I was incensed. How dare they? Didn’t they realize I was second in every statistical category on my conference-champion high school team, that I was voted Mr. Pressure or that I was recognized as All-Region by local sports reporters? Later, after an assistant coach watched me playing pickup games in the gym, the head coach changed his mind and asked me to join the team. Sour and
prideful, I turned him down and spent the rest of that semester unhappy and resentful, then transferred to play at another school. Now, whenever I feel myself or someone else has not gotten what they “deserve” or were “owed,” I remind myself with a little saying: “No one deserves anything, good or bad.” Hard as it can be to swallow, and it can be very hard given the good deeds that go unrecognized or the awful things some people do, it reminds me that the universe works the way it will and we’re all responsible for our response to that. We can choose the path of unhappiness, or we can choose the path of calm acceptance and contentedness. Choose happy! Editor’s Note: The Festival at Sandpoint just announced this week that The Avett Brothers are going to be playing the Festival on Friday, August 9. We’re betting Scott Taylor will be in the crowd.
The need for levies is essential By Cary Kelly Reader Contributor For many reasons the Sandpoint area is a wonderful place in which to live. One of those reasons, and a very important one, is that we have very good schools. There is always room for improvement, and I believe we are moving in that direction. The residents of the school district have been very supportive of education as indicated by passing supplemental levies for the past 17 years. Because of the way public education is funded in Idaho, local property owners do not directly contribute to local schools except by
levies or bonds which are approved by the voters. In other words, school districts, unlike cities and counties, do not have taxing authority. Hence, the need for levies which have become essential rather than supplemental to make up the shortfall in state funding. Even though most people support education Cary Kelly and want good schools, I realize there are those who oppose the current levy. I have heard complaints that the salaries of the superintendent and the CFO are too high, and that the levy increase is too much. First of all, the salaries for our superintendent and CFO are under separate contracts
and will be paid regardless of whether the levy is passed or not. Secondly, the majority of the increase goes for wage increases for our teachers in order to attract and keep the very best qualified people. The key to an excellent education is that teacher in the classroom, and this levy would make their salaries competitive in northern Idaho (although not Washington). Should the proposed levy pass, we would still be only 45 percent the statewide school district average levy rate. Of course, along with spending tax payers money comes accountability. One of the responsibilities of the school board is to ensure that your tax dollars going into public education is a good investment. Being on the board the last couple of years has given me the opportunity to meet principals, teachers, staff
and students and observe some of their activities. The students have achieved outstanding results in so many areas that I would not be able to list them all. Also, the dedication, innovation and caring of our teachers and staff are most impressive. More detailed information on the levy can be found on our website: lposd.org. Lastly, I would encourage you to vote YES for the levy on March 12, 2019! Cary Kelly is the president of the board of trustees for Lake Pend Oreille School District #84 and is a former Bonner County Commissioner.
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COMMUNITY
Task Force scholarship now available By Reader Staff Bouquets: • All winter, every time I deliver papers there on Thursdays, I notice something cool in the vestibule at Kaniksu Health Services in Sandpoint. There’s a coat rack with a couple dozen warm winter jackets of all sizes and colors. A posted sign informs people that these coats are for anyone to take if they need a warm winter coat. I love simple acts of kindness like this. If you find yourself in need of a winter jacket, check out their rack. Way to look out for the those in need! Barbs • There are still people that fall for email and phone scams out there, which is too bad, because these scammers often prey on vulnerable folks. One common scam is when you receive a call from someone claiming to be from the IRS who tells you that you underpaid your taxes and owe money. They then ask you to pay the balance with gift cards from Walmart. Your first giveaway should be that nobody from the IRS will call you (if they do, they’ll communicate well in advance via snail mail). The second indicator is that nobody in government would ever require you to pay a fee with a gift card from Walmart. There are so many variations out there. Some email scammers claim they are friends with your nephew and he needs help to get bailed out of jail, or callers will claim they are from your TV provider or telephone company and are eager to offer you a discount. Bottom line: If it seems too good to be true, it is. What scammer stories do you have out there? Send them to ben@sandpointreader.com so I can share with our readers. •To the person who sideswiped my truck and took out my sideview mirror: Thanks, jerk. It takes a special kind of a--hole to hit someone’s car and not leave a note. Special thanks to Steve’s Import Auto for installing my new one. 12 /
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The Bonner County Human Rights Task Force is accepting applications for the Darby and Amber Campbell Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship is available to seniors graduating from any Bonner County public or private high school or home school. The mission of the Bonner County Human Rights Task Force is to promote and secure mutual understanding and respect among all people. The Task Force recognizes that it is the social and cultural diversity of our people that makes Bonner County a rich and worthwhile place to live.
In order to apply, the student is asked to submit the common application as well as the Darby and Amber Campbell Scholarship application. The application asks the student to write a paragraph on the meaning of human rights as well as an essay in response to one of the questions on the application. The amount of the scholarship varies from $500 to $2,500 depending on the number of scholarships awarded. The 2018 recipients were Granya Boyd and Emma Reed from Sandpoint High School and Kaylee Taylor from Priest River Lamanna High School. Previous recipients have also included students from Clark Fork, Lake Pend Oreille High
School and the charter school. The application is available on the Task Force website at bchrtf.org. The application is also available on the Sandpoint High School and Priest River Lamanna High School websites as well as on some of the other school websites. The deadline for applications is 9 a.m., Wednesday April 10 at the Sandpoint High School Counseling-Career Center or at the student’s high school. Applications may also be submitted by April 10 to the Task Force at: Darby & Amber Memorial Scholarship, PO Box 1463, Sandpoint, ID 83864. Please contact the Task Force with any questions at (208) 2902732 or bchrtaskforce@gmail.com.
FSPW hosts ‘Incredibly Wild Trivia’ at MickDuff’s By Reader Staff Beer and obscure wilderness and Scotchman Peaks facts will mix together at MickDuff’s Beer Hall on Cedar on Thursday, Feb. 28. The preview of prizes begins at 5:30 p.m. The wild questions and answers start flying at 6:30 p.m. Up to four people per team
is allowed, and the suggested donation to play is $5. The winning trivia team will get an incredibly wild prize — of course. FSPW also will be selling slices of pizza — and you can buy a few points if your team is behind. There will also be some nice raffle prizes up for grabs. Pizza will be there by 5:30
p.m. The beer (or wine or root beer) will be ready for you whenever you get to MickDuff’s If you want to reserve a table, it’ll only cost you $10. Write to britta@scotchmanpeaks.org Bone up on Wilderness facts at scotchmanpeaks.org or wilderness.net.
FROM CAMBODIA WITH LOVE
Ancestors Alive genealogy classes offered By Reader Staff Sandpoint Parks and Recreation has teamed up help you discover your ancestors. You’ll also learn how to add memories, the pictures, document and stories to ancestors you discover on FamilySearch.org. Finding your roots is easy at the Family History Center, with free help and free access to world records. Create your family tree and join the millions you may be linked to. The class is Wednesday, March 13, from 1-2 p.m., with additional open lab from 2-3 p.m. Registration Deadline is March 10. The Family History Center, 602 Schweitzer Road (rear of LDS Church), is open every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and Wednesdays from 5:30-8:30 p.m. The second Wednesday of each month they are open from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. For more information about the Family History Center, contact Laurie Bachowsky (208) 5970641. Feel free to bring some pictures and stories. Optional: Bring your own computer or iPad.
From left to right: Vickey and Jeff Eickerman, Barbara and Greg MacIsaac and Gloria and Dave Diehl brought a Reader to Angkor Wat temple in Cambodia. Diehl wrote: “Your neighbors from Wooded Acres Drive will try to bring home some of this 95 degree heat.” Yes please!
POINT / COUNTERPOINT
2019 LPOSD Supplemental school levy
Should voters approve or decline the school levy?
Vote against the levy By Victoria Zeischegg Reader Contributor Lake Pend Oreille School District’s latest biennial supplemental levy vote comes up on March 12. Its track record of levy increases is well known, but this time the 49-percent jump to $25.4 million gives even previous levy supporters cause for pause. It seems appropriate to provide a little history and context regarding these supplemental levies, because that information tends to get lost over time. This will be the tenth biennial supplemental levy since fiscal years 2000-2001. At that time, it was $2.917 million and the district had 4,061 students. The upcoming levy at $25.4 million constitutes a 770-percent increase, but enrollment is now down to 3,841. A caveat about that enrollment figure: it includes about 125 home school students, who are part-time and can attend as little as 2-1/2 hours a week. LPOSD has never regained its enrollment of 4,061 and gradually reached a low of 3,588 in 2014. If you created a graph of enrollment vs. levies over these past 19 years, it would look like an “X” – levies going up, enrollment going down. LPOSD’s justification always begins with the recurring generic mantras of “Vote Yes for Schools” and “Vote Yes for Kids”. Voters are expected to trust and approve the district’s assessment of its “needs”. Few citizens have the time to attend the lengthy school board meetings or delve into the convoluted levy development process, or what is actually in the levies. But considering that even the school administration admits that 84 percent of the levy is for salaries and benefits, it’s difficult to accept the claim that “it’s for the kids”. That claim is even less credible when considering that in this levy’s $21 million salary amount are $7million just for salary increases. The justification given by the superintendent and chief financial officer is that these are needed to retain and recruit employees and be competitive with area school districts and because of our area’s high housing cost. In examining those justifications, LPOSD payroll records reveal that school employees
— teachers, administrators, and other staff — are actually paid quite well, and there is little employee turnover in those well-paid ranks. The district has 219 employees with salaries substantially above the county’s median income. Half of them make between $40K and $60K, 91 make between $60K and $80K, nine make between 80K and $95K, and five are above $100K. At the high end of the six-figure salaries are the superintendent and the CFO. Furthermore, according to staffing information on the Idaho Department of Education’s website, LPOSD has been steadily adding both certified and non-certified employees over the past several years. Why this would be necessary in light of declining or stagnant enrollment has never been explained. More staffing is planned in this levy: increase full-day kindergarten; add school-based mental health clinics; additional elementary school counselors; and another school resource officer. This is government growth on steroids and is the foundation of not just this levy’s unprecedented amount but guarantees future levies of even higher amounts. Levies raise school taxes, and once in place, every new levy increases them. They impact housing affordability, a fact well known to the school administration but dismissed with the superintendent’s comment last November that “people know they can afford more house if they go somewhere else out of our district.” Nothing illustrates LPOSD’s callous disregard for citizens’ financial situation better than that. A revision of its budget and levies is sorely needed to bring them in line with what our area can afford. We urge residents to turn out to vote against this levy to avoid what has been the case in previous levy votes when school employees and their families dominated turnout in order to grant themselves their next big pay raise. Victoria Zeischegg is the chairperson of the Bonner County Republican Central Committee.
Look at the facts and vote yes
By Wade Engelson Reader Contributor
The Lake Pend Oreille School District Supplemental Levy is scheduled for a vote on March 12. Proponents say the passage of this two-year levy is crucial to LPOSD providing essential educational services and continued opportunities for students to participate in extra-curricular activities. Critics of the levy portray it as unnecessary and simply a “money grab” by greedy teachers and administrators for already over-funded schools. Let’s look at the facts of the matter. The Over-Funded School “Money Grab” Argument According to USA Today, Idaho ranks 47th in the nation in per-pupil spending. The national average is around $12,500 per pupil per year. That’s approximately 1 1/2 times that of Idaho which spends about $8,400 per pupil. An Education Week report also ranked Idaho near the bottom when it came to state school financing per student when adjusted for regional costs. The truth is that Idaho doesn’t spend nearly as much as other states on K-12 education. Teacher salaries in Idaho also rank near the bottom with a national ranking of 44 out of fifty states. For example, in nearby Spokane, teacher salaries and benefits exceed those of teachers working in LPOSD by more than 30 percent. Based on statistics ranking both per-pupil spending and Idaho teacher salaries being among the lowest in the nation, it’s obvious the levy is neither about schools wanting to spend lavishly on luxury items nor teachers wanting to “line their pockets” with extra cash. The “Unnecessary” Argument The reality is that state funding for local school districts in Idaho falls woefully short for both school and student needs. Accordingly, more than 83 percent of all school districts have voter-approved levies just to meet operational expenses. For example, the LPOSD local levy funds 30 percent of essential programs, staff, services and all extra-curricular activities. What does that 30 percent entail? Well, one-third of all district employee positions are funded by the levy. That’s 300 people working directly or indirectly supporting student education. Since the state does not provide funding for activities, all middle- and high-school academic and extracurricular activities are funded by the levy. Some of these activities include football, basketball, band, cheerleading, drama club, track, soccer, baseball and math club. The levy will also keep rural schools open, support the Homeschool Academy, provide additional learning
opportunities for children in kindergarten, fund all curriculum and instructional materials, and augment the School Resource Police Officer positions in LPOSD schools. In short, the assertion that the levy is “unnecessary” promotes the idea that our schools will be just fine with 300 fewer employees, no instructional materials, no activities for students, fewer schools, a minimal public safety presence and underpaid teachers. The Decision to Vote The LPOSD levy was erroneously labeled a “supplemental levy.” There’s nothing “supplemental” about it. A more accurate portrayal is that the levy is “essential,” because without its passage, many of the educational and extra-curricular activities now afforded students will be taken away. While most people don’t enjoy paying taxes this levy is about providing educational opportunities for OUR children in OUR community in OUR schools. The schools in LPOSD are certainly not over-funded. For those who think so, I cordially invite you to take a tour of the middle school and then try to guess how old it is. The 300 people whose jobs are at stake are our friends, family members and neighbors. A person doesn’t start a career in public education with aspirations of becoming wealthy. It’s a calling to make a positive difference for children. These folks do an amazing job supporting and educating our children. For example, LPOSD schools consistently get high marks for academics and almost 90 percent of all high school students participate in at least one extra-curricular activity. To eliminate 300 positions does a disservice to both the affected employees and the students they serve. The most important reason for voting on this levy is the children. The question to ask ourselves is what kind of schools do we want? Do we want schools that have excellent academic standards, a safe learning environment and the opportunity for young people to participate in positive activities? Or are we satisfied with a substandard curriculum, closing rural schools and eliminating all academic activities and high school sports? I know what kind of schools I want for our children. Accordingly, I’m voting “yes” on our school levy and respectfully ask that you do the same. Wade Engelson is a Marine and 20-year police veteran with a bachelor’s degree in business and economics, a master’s degree in public administration and a doctorate in educational leadership. He is the Boys’ Varsity Basketball Coach at Sandpoint High School. February 28, 2019 /
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Northern Stars Rising Audition 4-7pm @ The Heartwood Center Pend Oreille Arts Council wants you to be a Northern Star Rising! Trivia Takeover Live Audition for a chance to perform for 6-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery the community and local booking Family friendly interactive trivia agents. No registration fee required Dollar Beers! 8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Good until the keg’s dry
Live Music w/ Bright Moments Jazz 5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority Live Music w/ Kevin Dorin 8-10pm @ The Back Door Blues fusion from a hell of a singer Live Music w/ Brian Jacobs 5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Brian plays all your favorite songs
Sandpoint Comm 7-8:30pm @ Dow A 90-min weekly songs about natur and more. No necessary. $5-10 donation. (208) 94
Live Music w/ Devon Wade 6:30-9:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Country night for First Friday! Live Music w/ Miah Kohal Band 9pm-12am @ 219 Lounge Rock/outlaw country dance band Mardi Gras at A&Ps @ A&P’s Bar and Grill
Th 8pm Sup San var tow nee
Live Music w/ Truck Mills Band Th 5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery 8pm Four-piece blues, country, country-rock Sup this Live Music w/ Kevin Dorin Fol 6:30-9:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall 9pm Enjoy Kevin’s blues and folk music Follies DJ B Panda Breaks after party Ge Ma 9:30pm @ The Hive @ Doors at 8 p.m., show starts at 9:30 p.m. Get Music spun by DJ B Pandia Breaks. $5 cover with re-entry allowed. Free entry Live M when you show a Follies ticket stub 8:30-1 A fun S Karaoke Live Music w/ Ken Mayginnes Sandpoin 4-6:30pm @ Matchwood Brewing 8-close @ Tervan 9am @ Ev
Mugs & Music w/ Cedar & Boyer 6pm @ Laughing Dog Brewing Taproom Featuring Justin and Jen Landis Live Music w/ Justin Lantrip 5:30-7:30pm @ Idaho Pour Authority Live Music w/ Chris Lynch 8-10pm @ The Back Door Sing us a song, you’re the piano man! Live Music w/ Joan Zen Band 9pm-12am @ 219 Lounge Hailing from Missoula, this 6-piece funky soul and reggae band is making their debut
Monday Night Blues Jam w/ Truck Mills 7:30pm @ Eichardt’s Pub
Cribbage Tournament 3-6pm @ Tervan
L 2 A w
Night-Out Karaoke 9pm @ 219 Lounge Dirty Revival in concert Join DJ Pat for a night of 7:30pm @ The Hive singing, or just come to Fat Tuesday Mardi Gras party featuring Dirty drink and listen Revival. Doors open at 6:30, show at 7:30 p.m. Djembe c Presented by Dig Beats Productions and KPND Triva Night 5:45-7:3 7pm @ MickDuff’s Join Ali M Sandpoint Daybreak Senior Center Wind Down Wednesday Magic Wednesday 6-8pm @ Jalapeño’s 5-8pm @ Idaho Pour Authority 5-8pm @ 219 Lounge With Founders Brewing beer on tap. With live music by blues Enjoy close-up magic by Mark Remmeter and Rick Price. S man Truck Mills and guest shows by Star Alexanitems and raffle prizes. Complimentar musician Andrew Browne der right at your table will be served Alzheime LGBTQ+ Support Group Live Music w/ Birds of Play 5-7pm @ The Human Connection 1-2pm @ 6-9pm @ Matchwood Brewing Co. A weekly gathering for LGBTQ+ A dynamic mix of sentimentality youth, friends, family, and allies Thursday and playfulness from this band ages 15-25 to get together and 6-8pm @ based out of Bozeman, Mont. share their stories. 208-265-5412 American
ful
February 28 - March 7, 2019
int Community Sing m @ Downtown Yoga n weekly journey of bout nature, life, love ore. No experience y. $5-10 suggested n. (208) 946-7072
l
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
Monthly Story Pour-y Hour 4-5:30pm @ Matchwood Brewing Co. The kiddos enjoy stories, cookies and milk while parents get to indulge in beer! A monthly event
Incredibly Wild Trivia night 6:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Join Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness to prove your knowledge of wilderness, the Scotchman Peaks, and beer! Donate $5 to play
Explore Virtual Reality The Follies! Reserve Sessions 8pm @ Panida Theater 10am-1pm @ Spt. Library Support Angels Over 15 minute sessions availSandpoint with this risque able. Contact the Tech Desk variety show. Proceeds go at 208-263-6930 ext.1251 toward local students in Live Music w/ Chris Lynch need. 6-9pm @ Arlo’s Ristorante
Live Music w/ Oak St. Connection 8:30-10:30pm @ Connie’s Lounge Follies DJ B Panda Breaks after party 9:30pm @ The Hive (March 1 + 2)
Bella Note Musical Program 10:30am @ Sandpoint Library Geared for families with young children Free First Saturday at the Museum The Follies! 10am-2pm @ Bonner Co. History Museum Karaoke 8pm @ Panida Theater ck Support Angels Over Sandpoint with See the museum, free of charge! This 8-close @ Tervan month sponsored by Steve Garvan this risque variety show. Friends of the Library Book Sale Follies After Party w/ High Treason Ammunition l 10am-2pm @ Sandpoint Library 9pm @ Eichardt’s Pub rty Get down after the Follies with Montana punk/rock trio Free and open to the public, so come browse Mardi Gras at A&Ps Mega Alpine and Snowboard Demo Day @ A&P’s Bar and Grill .m. All day @ Schweitzer Mountain Resort Get down, Big Easy style $5 The region’s largest demo day event featuring new gear from ry Live Music w/ Oak St. Connection more than 13 manufacturers with all proceeds benefitting Panhandle Alliance for Education. Find out more at Schweitzer.com 8:30-10:30pm @ Connie’s Lounge A fun Sandpoint duo with a wide range
Sandpoint Chess Club 9am @ Evans Brothers Coffee Lifetree Cafe 2pm @ Jalepeño’s Mexican Restaurant An hour of conversation and stories. This week’s topic: “Allergic to Food” Paint and Sip with Holly Walker ke Bonner Mall Seniors Day 5:30-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery ge 9am-12pm @ Bonner Mall Paint the northern lights! $35 ina night of All are welcome to come cludes instruction, art supplies and a come to walk the Mall, plus there select glass of wine. (208) 265-8545 will be a featured speaker or Djembe class 5:45-7:30pm @ Music Conservatory of Sandpoint entertainment, free refreshments, games and a drawing Join Ali Maverick Thomas for this djembe class r Center Fundraiser 3D Printing Workshop ity 4-5:30pm @ Clark Fork Library r on tap. Live music Design your own 3D printed object, and also learn some k Price. Silent auction fascinating ways 3D printers are being used. Space is limitmplimentary appetizers ed and pre-registration is required by calling 208-266-1321
Alzheimer’s Support Group 1-2pm @ Sandpoint Senior Center
Thursday Night Solo Series w/ Kerry Leigh 6-8pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Americana, folk, rock, country and blues
March 8 Sandpoint Contra Dance @ Sandpoint Community Hall March 13 Terry Robb in Concert @ Di Luna’s March 15 Storytelling Workshop MickDuff’s 13th 6pm @ Matchwood Brewing Co. anniversary @ Join if you have a story you MickDuff’s Beer would like to present at the Hall March 21 storytelling event
Just a short drive across the Long Bridge...
41 Lakeshore Drive (across the Long Bridge)
208.265.2001 ShogaSushi.com
Open for dinner Wednesday – Sunday 4:30-9pm Wed, Thu, Sun | 4:30-10pm Fri,Sat February 28, 2019 /
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FEATURE
Sandpoint’s growth spells trouble for resort city taxing
By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff
Sandpoint’s population is on the rise, but like any growth spurt, it carries with it an awkward phase or two. Many of them are apparent to even the casual observer. The Reader has already covered the recent difficulties many have encountered in securing affordable rentals. Sandpoint city officials, meanwhile, are nervously eyeing another growth benchmark that could put a major revenue source on borrowed time. Sandpoint is one of 14 Idaho cities allowed to utilize local option taxes. Originally implemented in 1978 as a tool for counties under 20,000 population, it was amended in 1984 for cities under 10,000 population with a heavy economic reliance on tourism. The state statute allows for qualifying cities to implement taxes on hotel stays and by-the-drink liquor sales, passing a portion of the tax burden to the tourists who create their own strain on public services and infrastructure. Problem is, Sandpoint is rapidly approaching the population limit of 10,000, at which point, it no longer qualifies for resort city revenue. It’s a problem that could have serious consequences if the 2020 U.S. census tips the city over the mark. “The artificial population cap is contrary to the voice of our voters and is 16 /
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not in the best interest of our residents, businesses and visitors,” wrote Sandpoint City Administrator Jennifer Stapleton in a whitepaper. “It is ultimately detrimental to our community.” Stapleton believes there’s a real risk of losing access to resort city taxing depending on the 2020 census results. In 2010, Sandpoint’s population was measured at 7,457. The 2017 estimated population is 8,390, and based on city data, Stapleton believes that number continues to grow. “Our own estimates based on city utility and housing vacancy data project that our city population will likely pass the 10,000 resort city threshold in the 2020 census,” she wrote. “If not that year, then definitely within the next one to two years.” Sandpoint has relied on resort city taxes for nearly two decades. Voters approved the first, a 5-percent tax on local hotel stays, in 2002. In 2015, voters increased the tax to 7-percent and renewed it for another 10-year run. The hotel taxes, which funds public transportation, police and fire protection, parks, Memorial Field reconstruction, invasive species control and the local interpretive center, specifically target tourists who rent rooms on a short-term basis of 30 days or less, shifting the tax burden away from locals who support city services through utility bills, property taxes and other revenue sources.
But not all taxes permitted under the resort city law are designed with tourists in mind. A sales tax approved by voters in 2015 hits both tourists and locals alike for the purposes of recreation funding. Voters approved it with a 73-percent majority for the reconstruction of War Memorial Field and its crumbling grandstands, with overflow funds directed toward other parks projects. Since implementation, the tax has raised more than $3,889,342 in revenue, funding the grandstands construction and a forthcoming replacement of the field turf. Sandpoint isn’t the only resort city in danger of losing the revenue mechanism. Hailey, Idaho, is another city creeping toward the population cap, measured at 7,960 in 2010 and estimated at 8,282 in 2017. According to Hailey City Administrator Heather Dawson, the city’s officials aren’t worried about crossing the line by the 2020 census. But they are keeping an eye on growth patterns over the coming years, because losing access to resort city taxes would be a debilitating blow. “Our local option tax changed the way we are able to deliver services,” she said. “It made a huge difference in terms of quality of service to our community. It’s an important element.” Stapleton is hopeful a legislative solution will prevent the city from the difficult funding decisions stemming from the loss of resort-city tax dollars. To that end,
An aerial shot of Sandpoint. Photo by William Greenway with HoverSight Photography. she’s in communication with District 1 legislators, who have been responsive to her concerns. According to Sen. Jim Woodward and Rep. Sage Dixon, Sandpoint and Hailey officials have at least one reason to breath a sigh of relief. According to an Idaho Attorney General opinion, resort city taxes are legally permitted to run the course of their voter-approved lifespan even if the city grows past 10,000 people during that time. That means that Sandpoint would have access to its hotel tax until 2026. “This opinion gives us a little more time to consider a path forward should the 2020 census reveal that our population has exceeded 10,000,” said Dixon. While that gives the city some breathing room, it’s still not a permanent solution, and Dixon said that to date, no clear legislative solution has emerged. Nevertheless, the legislators have some conceptual ideas they’re eager to develop. “We’re still actively working on a legislative fix to allow Sandpoint to remain a ‘resort city’ per Idaho code,” said Woodward. “We have a draft bill that I put together with a little help. Rep. Dixon is working with his House colleagues to clear a path for it. I think I can get it through the Senate.”
LITERATURE
This open Window
Vol. 4 No.5
poetry and prose by local writers edited by Jim mitsui
what crows know The story never ends. A coffee cup is refilled, again and again, sameness kissing change… warmth transmitted, and passed on. The rain has moved to the mountains, leaving crows to talk about the coming winter, and how layers of understanding will be needed to mend the world. Stories unfold, meander, and often find corners to occupy until they are needed.
surviving north idaho winter Mid-February. Four feet of snow, more where the tin roof’s flung it. cantankerous wind, 35 knots, spins new drifts over our pristine sidewalk (he cleared yesterday with his top-of-the-line snowblower), sweeps out old nests, scatters tree debris, slams the wind chimes against the house, animates bird feeders so fast no chickadee can light. Overcast. No sparkle. No color. A freezing tedium.
Mud season seedlings under fluorescents, spring flurry of outdoor work shoveling buckets of compost, showering compost tea a boost to blooming. Irresistible flowers will dress the fences, surround the house, trellis the shed, ring the fruit trees, climb the mail box, even flowers among the ferns and moss in the dark north side. An Eden of feasting for butterflies, humming birds, and bees.
I crouch to the computer, peruse electronic seed catalogues, order gorgeous flowers, pencil on a three foot sheet of brown wrapping paper taped to the kitchen counter, our hand drawn yard plan, color coded planting map, charts of starting dates.
Come July, we’ll lounge away hours on the covered porch in sweet grey shade watching them frowse the flowers, color and buzz aflutter in dizzying fragrance. The tiniest wind chime jingling to quiet
Come thaw we’ll build a little picket fence around the front yard with an arched trellis over the walk for red-orange Lonicera. 110 feet of 1X4 pickets. Do the math. Be a landscaper. It’s simple, tall Eupatorium and Tithonia steadied against the fence, shorter Penstemon and French Marigolds in front, complete circus of color all coordinated, for pollinators and pleasure.
-Beth Weber 2/19/19
Beth, an accomplished violinist, music and writing teacher fills her life with kayaking, bird watching, making friuitcakes and working in her garden and yard. This poem seemed suitable for the this time of the year when we tire of the constant snow and plan on what to plant in our garden and flowerbeds. She and her husband, Mark, have recently moved to Sandpoint from Cocolalla.
february 2019 polar express
Crows know this.
Due tomorrow night, and staying through Thursday—an unwanted guest
They also know
bringing single-digit lows. I fill the bird feeder, and bring in extra
the widest view, but the most precarious perch, and
wood, but it’ll go fast in the cold wind that seeps into the NE corner of the house
that stories are better told from nearer the trunk, where the root of all being rises in living sap. -Robens Napolitan
Robens is a local artist, writer and landscape gardener. Her poetry is often grounded in her relationship with nature. In this instance we get her take on one of our most notable birds, the crow. Their stories.
Send poems to: jim3wells@aol.com
despite Grouse Mountain’s blocking. I take trash and recycling to Dufort to avoid working outside, and driving icy roads with the coming snow and hard
just white dust in my path. A few junco tracks in the chicken yard, mouse trail across the driveway & back, and dog prints at the bottom. On the way back, clouds and wind have hardened and I tuck my gloved hands inside my coat, watch a red-tail hawk kiting over the mountain trees, and marvel at springs still running. There won’t be many chickens coming out today, I think, as I spread more straw over their floor.
freezes. Day One, 15°, not so bad. Soft wind on my face, but cold creeps into my jacket and leather gloves. No raccoon tracks today. Last night flat snow crystals fell and my steps crushed them into panes of stained glass. Today the sheen is gone,
-Jeannette Schandelmeier
Jeanette is a veteran of this column. A retired Sandpoint teacher, she lives off Talache road raising chickens, honeybees, and maintaining a typical North Idaho garden---among other things. She grew up on an Alaskan homestead. February 28, 2019 /
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FOOD
The Sandpoint Eater
Lessons (and lagana) for Lent
By Marcia Pilgeram Reader Food Columnist Lent, the solemn religious period observed by Christians around the world, comes late this year. In these parts, it’s a good thing because maybe we’ll finally see some signs of spring by Easter Sunday (April 21). Lent is observed differently by different sects, but for we Roman Catholics kids (who grew up wielding fish-sticks every Friday), it basically means 40 days, between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday, sans anything that (even remotely) looked or tasted delicious. St Patrick’s Day was an exception, a special day for dispensation, but if my memory serves me right, that was mostly a day reserved for alcohol-consuming adults, of which there were many in the blue-collar mining community of my youth. I can’t lie: As a kid, I dreaded Lent like a bad hair day. And since my family didn’t celebrate any of the pre-Lenten festivities, like Shrove Monday or Fat Tuesday, I never had a chance to over-indulge before our chuck wagon came to a screeching halt for 40 long days (and ice cream nights). To this day, I am fascinated by the centuries-old traditions and foods that are associated with Lenten preparations. The pancake has a very long history of association with Lent and can be found in cookbooks that are nearly 500 years old. It was a way to use up all the rich, perishable foods in a household. The ingredients were also symbolic: eggs for creation, flour for the staff of life, salt for wholesomeness and milk for purity. Besides making pancakes, the 18 /
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tradition of throwing or tossing them is nearly as old. In the UK, pancake races form an important part of the Shrove Tuesday celebrations, an opportunity for large numbers of people, often in fancy dress, to race down the streets tossing pancakes. The object of the race is to get to the finishing line first, carrying a frying pan with a cooked pancake in it and flipping the pancake as you run. The most famous pancake race takes place at Olney in Buckinghamshire. According to tradition, in 1445 a woman of Olney heard the shriving bell while she was making pancakes and ran to the church in her apron, still clutching her frying pan. The Olney pancake race is now world famous. Competitors have to be local housewives, and they must wear an apron and a
hat or scarf. Every country has its own version of pancake. In Portugal, it’s the Malasada, which contains yeast and is more donut-like; in Norway and Denmark, their bun-like version is known as Fastelavnsboller. In Newfoundland and Cape Breton, small divinatory tokens are cooked into the pancakes, which the young children are delighted to discover. Blinis are the pancakes associated with festivities in Ukraine and Russia, and in Scandanavia—their semla pastries are filled with almond paste. Germans prepare pfannkuchen, a thin, crepe-like pancake that’s dusted with powdered sugar and served with jam. Besides pancakes, another traditional Shrove Tuesday food is pea soup, popular in Estonia,
Iceland and Finland, and served along with a regional pancake or pastry selection (not my pairing of choice). Around the world, in addition to foods, over-the-top grand parties and carnivals that go on for days take place before folks settle in for the sacrifices of Lent. Besides the more well known, like Mardi Gras in New Orleans and the Carnivals of Rio de Janeiro and Venice, there are dozens of similar dancing, feasting and music events taking place in every corner of the Globe: Kerala, India; Sitges, Spain; Fasching and Cologne, Germany; and Martinique. Lavish parades, wine tastings and rituals filled with myth, merriment and mayhem go on for days. I always wanted to attend Mardi Gras, but not anymore,
Lagana recipe
folks. I found my pre-Lenten destination! In some cultures, another forbidden Lenten food is cheese. To prepare for this major sacrifice, cheese lovers gather in Cyprus for the tradition of “Tyrini,” which is an entire week dedicated to eating cheese. Greeks, the largest consumers of cheese in all of Europe, sound like they know how to throw my kind of party. Man cannot live by cheese alone, and the Greeks pair it up with Lagana, a delicious Greek flat-bread, similar to focaccia. It is traditionally baked on Shrove Monday (or Clean Monday). It’s simple to make and delicious to eat. Pair it up with some feta for your Fat Tuesday feast.
Makes 2 large loaves Easy and Delicious!
This bread, similar to Focaccia, is made on Clean Monday, which is the beginning of the Lent season in Greece
INGREDIENTS:
DIRECTIONS:
• 3 envelopes instant dry yeast • ¼ cup tahini • ¼ cup sugar • 7 to 8 cups bread flour • 2¼ cups warm water • ¼ cup white wine • 1 tablespoon salt • 5 tablespoons butter, melted and slightly cooled • Olive oil • Sesame seeds
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast, sugar, tahini, wine and ¼ cup of the bread flour in warm water. Cover and let stand for 15 minutes until begins bubble. In your standup mixer bowl, or a large bowl, place 7 cups of flour and salt, mix with a whisk to blend. Make a well and add melted butter. Add yeast mixture. Stir well with a wooden spoon. Start your mixer on medium and mix for 5-8 minutes until it comes together and becomes smooth. Shape dough into a ball. Rub with olive oil. Place in an oiled bowl, cover and leave to rise. Let stand for 2 hours until doubled. When dough has risen, remove from bowl and knead until it’s down to it’s original size.
Divide into two balls. Lightly oils your pan(s) With a rolling pan, roll out the dough into a flat oval shape about 15 x 6 inches. Cover and let rise for 4550 minutes until doubled.
Place in sheet pan and brush with olive oil and cover with sesame seeds. Bake for 30 minutes in a 450 degree oven until golden brown. Place on wire rack to cool immediately.
OPINION
Mayor’s Roundtable: Pitching in to make our community a better place By Mayor Shelby Rognstad Reader Contributor
County and the country over the last few years). The collective community response was enough to drive him out of Sandpoint. I want to take this opThrough this grant program, the portunity to recognize some Task Force again is stepping up in a significant events of late. big way to promote human rights and First, our hearts go out protect Bonner County from hate and to those impacted by the fire bigotry. The request for proposal is an on First Avenue as well as to invitation to any and all non-profits, edthose whose home and busiucational institutions or governmental ness were damaged by the agencies who care about issues related Mayor Shelby Rognstad. prior wind storm. The collecto: eliminating bullying and barriers tive response from our first responders was to full community participation and inclusion; an incredible display of teamwork, coordiproviding exposure to cultural diversity; and nation and professionalism. The response addressing the causes of bigotry or harassment. from the community supporting firefighters Successful applicants can be funded up to and those impacted by the fire was heart$8,000. There is currently $18,000 available warming and shows why this community for the grant and with your help we can grow is so loved and appreciated. People care for that amount. There are already so many great each other and show up big when it counts. programs happening in our community that are Friday before last I had the privilege of making a real difference in supporting diversity, attending the Bonner General Health Founsocial equity and inclusion. Some past projects dation Heart Ball fundraiser with some of funded by the grant include the Music Conserthe most influential leaders in the county. I was impressed with the degree of philanthro- vatory’s El Sistema Program, a Panida sponsored free film series focused on human rights, py and commitment to community health Pend Oreille Arts Council’s Living Voices, that was on display. Bonner General Health school performances and programs and the exists because of this longstanding commitmental health afterhours crisis line. ment from such philanthropists that since The Task Force is working in partnership 2005 have raised over $650,000 to support with Foundation for Human Rights Action equipment upgrades. It also exists because and Advocacy to grow the fund through tax Bonner County tax-payers, have contribdeductible contributions. You are all invited uted to the modest levy, to the tune of $1.2 to pitch in and contribute to this effort with million per year, that helps to support the any amount. hospital maintenance and operations budget. I know we are all impacted by the hate Although this is a mere 2-percent of the propaganda that has infected our region, $60 million annual operating cost, without especially those who are most vulnerable it, our local health services would not be as to messages and acts of hate. Let’s send affordable, or offer the range of services that a clear message and fund this communiwe enjoy today. Because of this sustained ty-wide effort to support the organizations community support, Bonner General has in our region that are making a difference to grown to become a regional hub for quality, educate, create a community of acceptance affordable health care and has become one and to rid our community of hate and bigotry. of the largest employers in Bonner County. You can send tax deductible contributions Also noteworthy, the Bonner County to Foundation for Human Rights Action and Human Rights Task Force is launching a Advocacy, PO Box 1463, Sandpoint, 83864. grant program through the Idaho CommuPlease specify on your check that your connity Foundation to promote education and tribution is for the BCHRTF grant. The more action for human rights and relations. The money we raise, the greater affect we have BCHRTF, like Kootenai County Human in creating a safe community that supports Rights Task Force, was originally formed social equity and quality of life for everyone. in response to the neo-nazi movement in Hayden Lake in the ‘90s. Together they were Information about the grant can be found here: bchrtf.org/membership_3. instrumental in driving the hate group out of A community is defined by the character of the area. Since then it has supported a large its people. I feel blessed to live in a community number of projects that promote human where people help one another and support causrights and social equity throughout the es which make our home a better place. I thank County. The Task Force rallied community all of you that contribute to that cause. support last year to oppose the racist mesMayor’s Roundtable continues Friday saging campaign of Scott Rhodes (Rhodes, March 1 from 8-9 a.m. at Cedar St. Bistro. now a Montana resident, is the man believed Please join me to discuss these issues and responsible for the barrage of hate propaganmore. da and robocalls littered across the Bonner February 28, 2019 /
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ENVIRONMENT
An opportunity to give back while getting on the water By Chantilly Higbee Reader Columnist
Citizen science-driven monitoring programs are rapidly becoming one of the most sought-after ways to answer water quality-related questions at local, regional, and national levels. They empower communities by enabling better understanding of local waterways and by supporting the active stewardship of these important resources. Lake Pend Oreille Waterkeeper’s volunteer-driven Water Quality Monitoring Program has relied on a dedicated team of community members to collect water quality data from 15 sites on Lake Pend Oreille and the Pend Oreille River for the last seven years. LPOW provides a centralized training each year, during which the team learns and practices how to implement the collection methods. We are incredibly lucky to have the support and dedication of this volunteer group. They do invaluable work, and it is evident just how invested they are in understanding the health of our watershed. Despite its robust history and support, the program doesn’t come without its challenges. Thankfully, some members are currently able to monitor multiple sites. But this extra commitment can be challenging, particularly when lake conditions are less-than-desirable. So this program is in need of at least three additional community members who would be willing to contribute to the program by volunteering their time (and taking the extra load off of our current volunteers). No experience is needed! This is a great opportunity to get out on the lake once a month during the summer, while also contributing to an important cause. The data generated by this program has been used to inform agencies of site-specific water quality impairments and serves as a baseline for understanding the unique characteristics of our waterways. To the best of our ability, we monitor the same parameters as those measured by government agencies such as Idaho Department of Environmental Quality. The sites that we monitor are, for the most part different from those monitored by DEQ. This is important 20 /
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because it means that together, we can quickly identify future impairments if they arise. In addition to sites on the Pend Oreille River, we monitor nearshore areas, some of which are used heavily for recreation. The Lake Pend Oreille WQMP is the core program that enables our organization to uphold our mission of keeping Lake Pend Oreille swimmable, fishable and drinkable. The program cannot exist without volunteer support. They truly are the life blood of our organization. Monitoring takes place on the third Tuesday of each month from May through September. Volunteers can use any watercraft they prefer, although some sites (e.g. Pend Oreille River) require a motor boat given technical constraints. If you are interested in becoming a WQMP volunteer, or even serving as a motor boat shuttle for other volunteers, stop by our office in downtown Sandpoint at 100A Cedar St., or email Chantilly@lpow.org. Chantilly Higbee is the Lake Pend Oreille Waterkeeper and Volunteer Coordinator for the Water Quality Monitoring Program.
Top: A map of LPOW’s jurisdiction coverage area. Bottom: The tools of the trade. Photo by Aubrey Falconer.
COMMUNITY
Karen Battenschlag named volunteer of the month Chamber moves By Reader Staff
With these cold temperatures in February, it is tough to think about children going outside without a winter coat. While most of us cannot imagine this struggle, it is a reality for many in our community. There are many caring individuals out there who go unnoticed, helping those in need, and our February Volunteer of the Month is one of them. Please join the Chamber is celebrating Karen Battenschlag as our February Volunteer of the month. A Sandpoint resident of 25 years, Karen Battenschlag has been an active community member. She was previously with the Lake Pend Oreille School District for 11 years and for the last 13 years, a Realtor for Tomlinson Sotheby’s International Realty. She began her volunteer work with Coats 4 Kids five years ago, on behalf of Tomlinson Sotheby’s. As a Coats 4 Kids volunteer, she has helped collect, clean, and distribute more than 1,000 coats annually in Bonner County. Since her time with the organization they have distributed over 5,000 coats and numerous winter hats, scarves, gloves, and mittens. “No one should be cold in the winter. The playground can be miserable if you
don’t have a coat. Staying warm is a basic human need,” said Battenschlag, when receiving the honor at The Chamber’s General Membership Luncheon on February 14. “I am so proud to be part of this incredible charity and part of this amazing community. It has been a privilege and joy to volunteer for Coats 4 Kids for the last five years.” The local Coats 4 Kids organization was started 34 years ago by KXLY News 4 and Tomlinson Sotheby’s. It was been successful every year through donations of new and gently used coats, as well as monetary donations to purchase items. Along with the help of many community members and sponsors, Coats 4 Kids has given 300,000 coats. If you would like to get involved or donate to Coats 4 Kids, you can contact Karen at (208) 263-5101. Please join us in thanking Karen Battenschlag for her endless commitment to Coats 4 Kids and our community.
219 named Business of Month
luncheon location By Reader Staff
Chamber Board Member Stephanie Rief presents Karen Battenschlag with the February Volunteer of the Month award.
To accommodate the growing attendance of the monthly General Membership Luncheon, the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce announces they will move their luncheons to the Sandpoint Center Community Room. The luncheons will be catered by Tango Café. The luncheon price will go up by $1 to cover a portion of the costs. For Chamber members, lunch will cost $16, and for non-members, $21. The Chamber would like to thank Edward Jones Financial Services for underwriting a portion of the venue fee. “We are grateful for Karen Forsyth and her staff for allowing us to hold our luncheons at Di Luna’s Café this past year. It is wonderful to have such great members willing to help. With the growing nature of this monthly event, and the limited options for big groups, we are happy we will be able to support another Chamber member, Tango Café”, said Chamber President and CEO Kate McAlister. The next luncheon is Thursday, March 14th, 12-1 p.m. at 414 Church Street in Sandpoint.
By Reader Staff
The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce announced the 219 Lounge as their February Business of the Month. The 219 Lounge, or “the Niner,” is known as Sandpoint’s Historic Bar and has been a staple in downtown Sandpoint for over 80 years. Since opening in 1934 as the Old Bohemia Club, it has had a few different names and undergone many changes. It officially became the 219 Lounge back in the 1950s when someone filling out the transfer of the State Liquor License mistakenly wrote the address on the “business name” section of the application, thus earning the name 219 Lounge. Mel and Claudia Dick purchased the 219 in 2005 and began extensive renovations in 2013. The most buzzed about being the decision to go smoke-free in December 2016. It was a risky decision resulting in an immediate drop off in business. However, the extensive work they put in to remove the smoke smell revealed a beautiful decades-old mural on one of the walls and created a much more inviting atmosphere. Patrons new and old began coming back, and the 219 is now a lively scene. The bar has an extensive live entertainment lineup, featuring live music at least three nights per week with local, regional and
Manager Mark Terry with owners Claudia and Mel Dick.
occasionally nationally-touring bands. Four times a year they have stand up comedy night with acts from nationally-known comedians. In 2018, the 219 Lounge was named “Idaho’s Best Small-Town Community Bar.” Mel, Claudia and the 219 feel truly blessed to be a part of the Sandpoint Community and are great supporters of numerous area nonprofit organizations. They recently hosted the first ever Leadership Sandpoint Alumni event and Fundraiser and personally made a generous donation to the beneficiary, NAMI Far North. They have their annual fundraising event for 24 Hours for Hank on March 16 and the Summer Solstice Event for Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness on June 21. The 219 Lounge is located at 219 North 1st Avenue in Sandpoint. Find out more at www.219.bar.
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HEALTH
SHAKE, RATTLE AND ROLL It ain’t all bad
A column about the trials and tribulations of Parkinson’s Disease
By A.C. Woolnough Reader Columnist
“You have Parkinson’s disease.” Those four words rock your world, and nothing is ever the same. PD is progressive, it is chronic and it involves the death of thousands of brain cells. It can lead to psychosis (visual
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and auditory hallucinations), dementia, flailing movements, freezing gait and a host of other motor and non-motor symptoms. On the other hand, it ain’t all A.C. Woolnough. bad. I’d like to explore some of the positives, some of the gifts I’ve received,
since my diagnosis five years ago — it is important to know some symptoms may show up years or even decades before being diagnosed. PD has sharpened (and perhaps warped) my sense of humor. Frequently, when I do presentations, I show a slide of the most interesting man in the world. The caption states, “I don’t always get a disease, but when I do, there is no cure.” Call it Parky humor. Here’s another: When my brother went to college (more than 50 years ago), he ended up in Cleveland and never left (in 1952 and 1969, the Cuyahoga River in downtown Cleveland caught fire and burned!). I ended up with Parkinson’s. I win! As an aside, my brother and I are very competitive. He is the older brother and I have always been determined to do anything he could do, but better or faster. We’ve had a cribbage tournament going since 1967. Last fall, we got together for a week-long golf excursion near San Antonio. He is a substantially better golfer than I am, but I use my PD as an automatic handicap, so we end up about even. Then again, I keep score, and my pencil includes an eraser. While in Texas, we re-started a ping pong war from high school that left both of us out of breath and frustrated we’re slower than we used to be. No matter, it gave us an opportunity to get together — something we’ve learned to appreciate more and more as we get older and older. Given our family history of relatively early death, we never know when, or if, we’ll have a chance to renew our long-standing battles. For what it’s worth, neither one of us knows who’s ahead in our various competitions — nor do
we really care. Those who know me are aware that my competitive streak goes well beyond my brother. Pamela won’t play Scrabble or most games with me because she is focused on having fun, while I simply want to win. My Parkinson’s has tempered this competitive spirit — a little. Now, I focus more on cooperative projects and activities. Much of the credit goes to patient training and repetition from my angel, Pamela. Now, when she asks, “Would you rather be right or be happy?” “I want to win!” is no longer my default answer. After all, I need to conserve my energy to defeat Parkinson’s. PD has also provided an opportunity for travel. My competitive nature supported my decision to apply for a spot on the Parkinson’s Foundation People with Parkinson’s Advisory Council. It was a competitive process that involved short essay answers — right up my alley! Serving a three-year term on the council humbled me greatly. I am fortunate that I can still travel — and like to travel — as the work required multiple trips to New York, Miami and Washington, D.C. Many PWPs more highly qualified than I can’t make that kind of trip and were unable to apply. Frequently Pamela and I have extended our stays to explore and play tourist. As a staunch advocate of research, I was fortunate to be invited to New Jersey for training as a research advocate. That opened doors for me to participate in research projects at Columbia, NIH (National Institutes of Health), Portland, Seattle, Pullman and Sunnyvale, Calif. More travel! Throw
in the grant reviews I’ve done for the Department of Defense, national and regional foundations and Universities. That’s about 75,000 miles since diagnosis — the equivalent of three times around the world! Better treatments and an eventual cure rely on research. Research relies on funding. My best guess is that nation-wide foundations, regional organizations and local groups contribute in excess of $100,000,000 (yes, over one hundred million dollars) toward research, education, advocacy and quality of life issues. The government also contributes to the research pool. Unfortunately, less than 25 percent of research proposals are ever funded. That’s one of the reasons I’ve gone to Washington, D.C., the past four years to meet with Idaho senators and representatives promoting federal funding for neurological research. Yes, more travel. The best thing that has happened since diagnosis is the people I’ve met. From donors, to care partners to those with PD, to advocates, to researchers, to clinicians, therapists and even pharmaceutical reps, I am amazed and impressed with the Parkinson’s community. They are selfless, determined and willing to do their part to get us closer to the holy grail — a cure. I started to name a few of these incredible folks but realized they would fill up this entire issue of the Reader — something I don’t think Ben, the publisher, would appreciate. Let it be enough that I know who you are, and know that I appreciate the work you do, and I love the person you are. You have my perpetual thanks.
STAGE & SCREEN
From the frozen north to the red carpet Two Sandpoint women attend the Oscars
By Sharon Lewis Reader Contributor And the winner is ... Sharon and Justine for attending this year’s Oscars! How is this possible? Let me explain. Justine Murray and I are avid movie goers and unapologetically love the Oscars. We live in a ski town, and yet, neither one of us ski. For us, winter is the season for movie watching, and we annually gather together with friends to dress up, drink champagne, fill out our Oscar ballots and watch the live ceremonies. A friend heard of our annual Oscar gatherings and mentioned this to his sister who works for the Academy Awards Association. Cut to opening scene, where Sharon and Justine’s jaws drop, eyes widen and hands cover mouth in disbelief when they learn they have been generously offered an unbelievable opportunity to attend the 91st Oscars ceremonies. This was the start of a six-week journey that would lead us onto the red carpet this past Sunday. We were given lots of advice to prepare but my favorite piece of advice was, “It is impossible to overdress for the Oscars.” So, with the help of many family and friends (or dare I say “our entourage”) we booked our flights, found accommodations, purchased our dresses, scheduled hair and makeup and, voila, we were arriving at LAX the Friday before Oscars Sunday. Friday and Saturday were spent with the fun and generous O’Leary family in Santa Monica. Many locals may know Jorge and Melissa O’Leary from their Beach House days here in Sandpoint, or perhaps you may know their son, Max, who attended school here and today roams the world as an internationally-accomplished trumpet player. On Saturday night we headed to Hollywood for dinner with our lovely friend from the Academy Awards Association and a lovely Swiss family who are red carpet veterans. Our new friends fed us advice on walking the red carpet and how to be in the moment on the big day. We talked movies and shared diverse opinions on this year’s nominees among the clamor of this loud, bustling, popular Hollywood restaurant. Justine and I felt nourished and inspired as we fell asleep on Oscar Eve. Sunday morning, we headed out for our hair and makeup appointments at Blo, a Hollywood dry bar. And by mid-afternoon
Left: Sharon Lewis and Justine Murray of Sandpoint attend the Academy Awards last week. Top: Shoes! Courtesy photos.
Sunday, dressed and polished, we Ubered to the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, where we hitched a 5-minute golf cart ride to the Oscars venue. We could hear the excitement coming from the other side of a partition where we were dropped off, but we couldn’t see anything. As we walked the 20 steps before turning the corner, we recited our mantras, “We belong,” “Be in the moment,” “We got this.” Then we turned the corner just as Glenn Close arrived in her golden gown looking like a Hollywood Sun Goddess. We couldn’t help but be drawn to her light and follow her to what we didn’t realize was the nominee’s red carpet. Well, our mantras worked, because we stood in the nominee arrival area for 15 minutes before anyone thought to ask if we were nominees. We truthfully answered no and were politely directed to the end of the non-nominee line. But before our status depreciated, we watched as Sam Elliott and Katherine Ross mingled adjacent to us at the main entrance! Cut to scene where Justine and Sharon successfully walked the red carpet into the Dolby Theatre, and sit in the upper
balcony. The lights go down, the Queen music fires up and the entire theatre erupts like a rock concert. Stomp, stomp, clap. Stomp, stomp, clap. Rock on! All evening thrills were being tossed to us from the stage below; Olivia Coleman, Rami Malek and Spike Lee’s acceptance speeches, the wins for two shorts we saw at the Panida, “Period. End of Sentence” and “Skin” and the win for the documentary, “Free Solo,” a film that Justine brought to the Panida. And, of course, Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper’s “Shallow” performance was unforgettable. But hovering over us all evening was a feeling of awe for all the talent, commitment and creativity at the center of the cinematic storytelling we love. I can hear the music telling me to wrap this up, but we would like to thank our local theaters and especially the Panida for showcasing so many brilliant films. And of course, we would like to thank our family, friends and the beauty experts that made our experience possible. You know who you are! Oh, and we didn’t see Viggo. Darn it! Maybe next time. February 28, 2019 /
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Thank you, donors
We have a Patreon crowdfunding page that generates over $700 per month for the Reader, thanks to the support of a lot of great people in this community. From time to time I like to mention them in the paper to show our gratitude. This is one of those times.
$50/month donors:
$5/month donors:
Anonymous Barbara Schriber
BJ Biddle Bruce and Gretchen Duyers Bruce Millard Carol Robinson Christine Owens D.R. Douglas Technologies Daniel Sherrard David and Sarah Phillips Diane Newton Donna Brundage Fosha Mimbs Gil Beyer Ginna Maus Gretchen and Brent Lockwood Hilary Howard Janet Roubicek Jason Wilson Jeff Bohnhof Jessica Tingley Joann Hough Karen Lemley Ken Brookings Leah Tomey Linda Larson Lisa Rosauer Lois A. Macleod Marilyn Haddad Marsha Williams Mary Toland Matthew Smith Morgan and Crosby Tajan Patricia Ericsson Phil Hough Robin Rusackas Samantha Edgerton Shannon McGlashan Shawn Aller Sylvie White Talache Construction Taylor Long Travis Sherman Vanessa Velez Whiskey Jack Gallery Zachardy Taylor
$25/month donors:
Amy Flint Eric Bond Jeanna Hofmeister Kate McAlister Mary and John McPherson Randy Wilhelm Sean Statham Stephanie R. Wilson Stephen Augustine Sue Kautzman Valerie Olson Vicki Reich and Jon Hagadone $10/month donors:
Ally and Scott Unzen Amanda Beer Bill and Susan Harp Brita Olson Carrie Logan Charlene Godec Charles D. Spencer Clem Yonker and Lori Getts Connie Burkhart Cynthia Mason Danny Strauss David E. Lux Edward Karasek Jeff Bohnof Jim and Lilly Mitsui Karen and Alan Millar Kennth Thacker and Bonnie Jakubos Mark Cochran Mark Pritchard Mary Parenteau Rebecca Holland Ryanne Pilgeram Sharon Sherrard Simon Levine Spring Creek Store, Inc. Steve Navarre Tracy and Tom Gibson Trisha Miller Val LeRose Yarrow Frank 24 /
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Thank you all SO much for your support. We really appreciate it. -BO
Nordic Adventures By Ross Longhini Reader Contributor Nordic skiing is one of the oldest forms of locomotion across snow-covered landscapes. Historic evidence shows that Nordic skiing has been around for over 6,000 years. The word “ski” is an Old Norse word for “wooden stick,” referring to the split or hewn wooden skis of that era. Some of the early skiers used a short ski with fur on the bottom for gripping the snow and a longer ski for gliding. They also only used one pole so the other hand could be used to carry a weapon. Strapping a couple of sticks onto boots and trudging through the snow is the basis for all forms of skiing that we know today. Nordic skiing now refers to all forms of skiing that have a free heel, including both forms of cross-country skiing (classic and skate), ski jumping, Telemark and, arguably, biathlon. Both skiing and trail grooming equipment have changed dramatically over the millennia and most significantly in the past century. Skiers are now able to cross mountainous terrain at speeds that would have been unthinkable just a century ago. Elite skiers on wellgroomed, hilly trails can maintain speeds of over 15 mph for over 30 miles! In the Sandpoint area, we have a few well-groomed trails where we can enjoy fast and firm corduroy for skating or silky smooth tracks for classic skiing. Occasionally, you’ll see some skiers both young and old cruise by at 15 mph for short distances. However, they are probably going downhill. The Nordic trails at Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Western Pleasure Guest Ranch and the trails groomed by the Sandpoint Nordic Club on Boyer Avenue are places
where Nordic skiing can be fast and exhilarating. These trails are also great places to meet others who enjoy skiing uphill, an odd little quirk of this community of skiers. But there may be times when trudging through virgin snow like our ancestors may be what you need. Here the concept of trail is a bit more ambiguous, adventurous and free-spirited. The trail is yours to discover. The 16th-century artist and sculptor Michelangelo reportedly said, “Every block of stone has a statue inside it, and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it.” Likewise, all of our forests, valleys and mountains have trails within them, and it is up to the Nordic skier to discover them. The magic of having the landscape covered by several feet of snow is that it opens the possibility of travel, especially when the conditions are just right. In the late winter when the days are warm and the nights are cold, a crust forms on the snow overnight. In the early morning, “crust” skiing can be quite an amazing adventure. It’s as if the entire landscape is yours to find its undiscovered trails. The solitude, peacefulness and serenity can be
truly beyond words. We are so incredibly fortunate to be enveloped in such natural beauty. It’s one thing to look across a landscape and enjoy all it has to offer. It is truly another to engage with it. The richness of the landscape opens up in a way that makes everything more real. If you do decide to venture out and discover your trails, please be mindful of private property and avalanche dangers! So as the days get warmer and longer and while the nights are still cold, strap on a pair of skis and discover your trail. Ross Longhini is president of the Sandpoint Nordic Club and has been an active member of Trail Mix for several years. The Sandpoint Nordic Club offers affordable ski and boot rentals at Syringa Cyclery. These skis are most appropriate for the groomed trails at Boyer or Western Pleasure. Schweitzer Mountain Resort also rents Nordic ski gear and provides lessons. Trail Mix is a local collaborative of government and non-government organizations working together to expand the trail system in Bonner County.
MUSIC
This week’s RLW by Lyndsie Kiebert
Fingerpickin’ good
READ
Blues guitarist Terry Robb to play Di Luna’s, offer workshop in Newport
By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff Music is often meant to tell a story. Regardless of genre, musicians are storytellers in their own right, taking listeners on a journey through time and emotion while remaining in their seats. Storytelling is something Portland blues guitarist Terry Robb is committed to, and yet his approach is unique. While some of his songs have lyrics, a large portion don’t, yet the stories his songs tell are unmistakable. Contentment, anger, hope and joy are all present in Robb’s work — something he strives for. “I think that sometimes you let the listener’s imagination go, and that’s the great thing about music — it triggers a memory sense and takes people places,” he said. Robb will bring his signature form of fingerpicking to Sandpoint at Di Luna’s Cafe on Wednesday, March 13, as part of a tour promoting his upcoming album “Confessin’ My Dues.” Though the album is not officially out until May 31, those who attend his upcoming show will have a chance to buy an advance copy. “Confessin’ My Dues” is Robb’s 15th solo recording, marking what’s next in an extensive and impressive career as a renowned guitarist with a specialized style. Robb said he came from a musical family and found blues guitar music at a young age. “I heard these guitar players — blues guitar players — and something clicked in me,” he said. Since those pieces fell into place, Robb has been recognized as at the forefront of
My favorite journalist, dead or alive, is Tom Hallman Jr. of The Oregonian. I received his story collection, “Dispatches from 1320,” for Christmas and I’m loving reading a couple stories every night as I work through the 500 pages of narrative profiles and features. Hallman is largely regarded as at the forefront of narrative style, and for good reason. He places his readers directly within the scene and makes his sources into accessible, vulnerable humans. I have no clue how he creates that kind of trust, but it’s a gift, and I’m so glad he shares it.
LISTEN
fingerpicking style by music publications across the country. He’s been inducted into the Oregon Music Hall of Fame and the Cascade Blues Association Hall of Fame, and won the Muddy Award for Best Acoustic Guitar 19 years in a row, prompting the association to rename the award the “Terry Robb” Acoustic Guitar Muddy Award in 2011. Though his work is generalized as blues, Robb said he plays everything: country, jazz, ragtime and more. “Because I use a blues technique, my songs come off that way — like if a classical guitarist plays a pop song, it has a classical feel to it,” he said.
“I like to listen to all kinds of music … (and) that shows up in my playing.” Robb said he does his best to sound like a full band when he plays live shows and that he’s constantly challenging himself, especially with his new material, which he’s excited to share during this tour. “I just like to entertain people. I like it if people are touched in some way,” he said. In addition to the Sandpoint show, Robb will teach a fingerstyle acoustic guitar workshop at the Create Art Center in Newport, Wash., on March 10. The workshop will last 2-3:30 p.m. and costs $45, including curriculum. Partici-
Top, right and bottom right: Terry Robb, who specializes in fingerpicking blues, is all set to play Di Luna’s Wednesday, March 13. Courtesy photos.
pants must pre-register and prepay online at www.createarts. org, by check to P.O. Box 1173, Newport, 99156, or in person at the Create Art Center, located at 900 W. 4th Street. Tickets for the March 13 show are $12 in advance and $15 the day of. Call Di Luna’s at 208-263-0846 for tickets and to make dinner reservations. Robb will play at 7:30 p.m.
If you threw emo, folk and femininity into a mixing bowl, “boygenius EP” would be the resulting dough. The 2018 release is by a trio that uses the boygenius name: Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus. Each woman has made their own name within the realm of indie rock, but their combined efforts have created something completely different and incredibly moving. It’s true that three heads are better than one when it comes to the lyrics and riffs across the six-track EP. “Souvenir” and “Salt In The Wound” stand out, but end track “Ketchum, ID” — yes, they know about Idaho! — is really beautiful, too.
WATCH
While browsing the DVD shelves of the Clark Fork Library last week, I found a movie I hadn’t seen since it’s release but that I firmly remembered as amazing. “Focus,” featuring Will Smith and Margot Robbie as con artists, has two elements that equal a total movie win for me: completely unforeseen plot twists and, well, Robbie. “Focus” surpasses the monotony of your average action/crime movie by creating real chemistry between characters and delivering surprises left and right. The Super Bowl gambling scene, in particular, is memorable. February 28, 2019 /
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OPINION
Look to the Long Run From Northern Idaho News, March 3, 1925
MAY NOT ERECT BRIDGE AT NEWPORT CONGRESS WILL HAVE TO PASS BILL TOMORROW OR IT STARTS OVER The bridge that is proposed to be erected at Newport and for which the state of Idaho and the state of Washington in conjunction with Bonner county, Idaho and Pend Oreille county, Washington, assisted by federal air money and for which all preliminary steps have been taken except the permit from congress, is in danger of being delayed. Congress adjourns March 3 and unless the house concurs in the amendments offered in the senate to the bill permitting the erection of the bridge the bill will have to be reintroduced in the next session of congress and again passed and this will delay actual work on the project for some time. AMENDED PRIVATE BILL
The bill as it now stands is the bill originally introduced by Congressman French of Idaho, to grant a permit for a toll bridge to C.W. Beadmore of Priest River. This bill passed the house before our bridge appropriations had been secured. When it came up in the senate, Senators Gooding of Idaho and Dill and Jones of Washington had it amended to substitute the names of the two states for that of Beardmore. To complete the bill it is only necessary to secure the concurrence of the house to the senate amendment. 26 /
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By Mark Reiner Reader Contributor Many families and friends have become more or less estranged when discussing the political scene in the U.S. This is usually either the result of looking at Donald Trump as the hero who is supposed to be getting rid of the “secret government,” or the narcissist who is simply destroying our democracy. The two view points appear mutually exclusive, and there is little wonder that the discussions become heated by those of differing allegiances. Yet everyone wants a stable, representative and just government. By holding firmly to one of the above perspectives a lop-sided view takes shape and governs the perceiver’s attitude and decisions. Further, by focusing upon the immediate actions and reactions, the bigger picture is lost. There are many more similarities between people than there are differences. First of all, let us be honest. Past governments have not solved the basic inequalities seen in the legal system, the financial sector or the social milieu, and neither is this present one. “Solutions,” if any, are no more than band-aids over previous band-aids. Now the wounds are festering underneath them and treatment is becoming unavoidable. No one should wonder why there is so much turmoil, and not just in the U.S. Second, we all need to realize no system of government is perfect because every government is run by human beings. The success of all governments are dependent upon those in positions of power. Even dictatorships, including theocracies, operated by benevolent leaders can provide good governance such as the Tibetan government in exile under the Dali Lama, or in contrast, poor governance with rigid, self-serving dictatorships such as in Iran. More importantly, success or failure must also take those governed into account. Are their needs being met? At present, very few people believe the U.S. government is operating in the best interest for all. It could again be said that much of the world’s turmoil is the result of poor governance. The cause of this dilemma both individually and collectively, in governments, is the perception of differences based upon our experience in
duality coupled with a desire to control people, places and things. This causes one to be either “right” or “wrong,” a “winner” or a “loser.” The more self-centered the perceiver, the greater the contrast. This is shown daily in our relationships with those we disagree with, both individually and nationalistically. Emotional entanglements prevent an honest unbiased look at what is needed. Thus, the root of problem is a lack of synthesis. Yet this is exactly what is emerging in millions of people today regardless of party affiliation, and its foundation is far more secure. The present destruction of our government is necessary because the perception of both the “leaders” and “followers” is one of being “right” or being “wrong.” Further, much obstructive legislation such as gerrymandering remains in use. Regardless of how one views them, Donald Trump, the congress, and the supreme court are all doing their parts in bringing the system down. This is right and proper, for it is the people who should arise into enlightened self-governance, individual and collective, and they are, for every pain suffered becomes a lesson. Let us to look to the future rebuilding upon a greater synthesis. What foundational thought should appear in this political reality? What is the basis of the emerging synthesis? Read 1 Corinthians 13. “Love is patient; love is kind; love is not envious or boastful or arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.” This is the foundation upon which we build. Mark Reiner is the co-director of the Pend Oreille Chorale and Orchestra with his wife Caren. They have lived in North Idaho since 1992.
Crossword Solution
When I found the skull in the woods, the first thing I did was call the police. But then I got curious about it. I picked it up, and started wondering who this person was, and why he had deer horns.
Copyright www.mirroreyes.com
CROSSWORD ACROSS 1. Established 6. Cards with 1 symbol 10. Tale 14. Not inner 15. Awestruck 16. Margarine 17. Grave marker 18. Tall woody plant 19. A storage chest 20. Advertisement creator 22. Always 23. Couch 24. Decadent 26. Glove 30. Russian fighter 31. Mineral rock 32. Murres 33. Breezed through 35. Modify 39. Add together 41. Imitate 43. Peal 44. Wander 46. Creative work 47. Shade tree 49. To make a fool /bih-HEE-muhth/ of (archaic) [noun] 50. Pause 1. any creature or thing of monstrous size or power: 51. Hogfish of the 54. Christmas season 56. Rope fiber “That new tank the Army is making is a behemoth.” 57. Contempt Corrections: We made a mistake on the events calendar last week. The K-9 63. Buckeye State Keg Pull was incorrectly listed for place and time, but we corrected it on 64. Fail to win
Word Week
behemoth
Facebook. Sorry if there were any mix-ups. -BO
Solution on page 22 65. Forbidden 66. Palm starch 67. Pitcher 68. Arm joint 69. Black, in poetry 70. Cheers 71. Relaxes
DOWN 1. Pear variety 2. Car 3. Stair 4. Evasive 5. Sketches 6. Inventor 7. Hauling
8. Type of sword 9. Record player 10. Companion 11. Quick 12. Adjust again 13. French for “Our” 21. Ancient empire 25. German for “Madam” 26. Mire 27. Press 28. An indefinite period 29. Bigger than a teaspoon 34. Voracious eaters 36. The thin
fibrous bark 37. Decorative case 38. A musical pause 40. Ailments 42. European blackbird 45. Amazing adventure 48. Potpourri 51. Of which person 52. Rehabilitation 53. Chum 55. Banana oil, e.g. 58. Hawkeye State 59. Wan 60. Wanes 61. Codger 62. Drags
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KEEP SANDPOINT ROLLING
SANDPOINT JUNCTION CONNECTOR
I
RA/LWAY Connecting the Pacific Northwest since 1873
Freight rail plays an important role in the regional economy, transporting the goods and commodities we all use every day. To meet the growing needs of the communities we serve, BNSF is proposing to build a second bridge over Lake Pend Oreille, which would be adjacent to the existing rail bridge. The project will also include new bridges over Sand Creek and Bridge Street in Sandpoint. The upgrade will reduce congestion, and help move our current freight traffic and future volumes more efficiently; this benefits all the products we carry and the passenger trains that run on our main line. When completed, trains will run in both directions, reducing the need to idle while waiting to cross the existing si ngle-track. As a result, local drivers could see shorter wait times on nearby roads that cross BNSF tracks, and the flow of freight and passenger trains will be improved throughout the region.