Reader march19 2015

READER March 19, 2015 / FREE / Vol. 12 issue 9

public art in sandpoint Cab Column: The Culinary underbelly of SPT

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Sandpoint Waldorf School

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Josh hedlund “Live @ the office”

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MAN

compiled by

Ben Olson

on the street

Do you think public funds should be used on art projects in the city, or is it a waste of money?

“I think that it should, but in a prudent and limited fashion. It adds a lot to the community, but it’s sometimes expensive, like that new bicycle sculpture they proposed. I support public art, but I’m not in need. I imagine it would probably piss a lot of people off.”

John Gaddess Sandpoint

DEAR READERS,

In Seattle, they have the Fremont Troll. In Portland, the trident-weilding Portlandia statue. In Boise it’s the Freak Alley. In Sandpoint, we have... the Statue of Liberty? Hmm. The great thing about art is that nobody can tell you definitively if it’s bad or good. It just is.

I believe the character of a town is evident in what it spends its money on. To showcase art for the masses shows that we are unafraid of being an artist town, not just saying so on our brochures. We may not all agree on most issues, but when it comes to art in our little hamlet, I say bring it on.

-Ben Olson, Publisher

John: “Absolutely. The stuff that’s popping up is great.”

Lynda: “Yes, art should be a part of life. The more the better.”

FIDDLIN’ RED

John and Lynda Gillham Sandpoint (celebrating their 41st anniversary!)

Instruments Repairs Lessons

Music Store

“Yes. It makes the town more attractive. In Coeur d’Alene they have all the local artists paint the utility boxes and it looks fantastic. We could do something like that here, too.”

Tom Callister Sagle “Absolutely. That’s what makes Sandpoint so attractive to people. A lot of it is volunteer, too, which is great. This town is very giving, we have so many soup kitchens and so many people that give to the poor. This community reaches out. We shouldn’t take funds away from public art.”

Judi Ferguson Sandpoint

“Personally, I appreciate it. I love public art in my my town. I feel it attracts people to Sandpoint. If the town is pretty, they’re going to want to be here.”

Kristen Cannard Sandpoint

commentary

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The Culinary Underbelly of SPT

By Louie de Palma

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Chamber Chick Connection?

By Mindy Cameron

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Perspectives on Public Art

By Stephen Drinkard and Christian Fioravanti

news News

By Reader Staff

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feature

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The Sandpoint Waldorf School

By Jennifer Passaro

The Event Calendar

arts & culture

12 13 111 Church St., Spt, ID (208)946-6733 WWW.FIDDLINREDSIMPSON.COM

Public Art in Sandpoint

By Cameron Rasmusson

calendar

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“I think there needs to be an appropriate time for it. I’m all for public art, but it seems strange to be pushing that during an economic downtown. That would be my only concern.”

Jon Rich Sandpoint

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Macbeth in Review

By Cameron Rasmusson A Montana Weekend

By Ben Olson Fast Forward Slow Motion

By Sarah Berentson Josh Hedlund “Live @ The Office”

By Will & Kristi Harrison

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

www.sandpointreader.com Publisher: Ben Olson ben@sandpointreader.com Editor: Cameron Rasmusson cameron@sandpointreader.com Zach Hagadone (emeritus) Contributing Artists: Daniel Cape, Ben Olson, Theron Humphrey Contributing Writers: Cameron Rasmusson, Louie de Palma, Mindy Cameron, Stephen Drinkard, Christian Fioravanti, Jennifer Passaro, Sarah Berentson, Will & Kristi Harrison Submit stories to: stories@sandpointreader.com Printed weekly at: Griffin Publishing Spokane, Wash.

Subscription Price: $75 per year Advertising: Jen Landis jen@sandpointreader.com Clint Nicholson clint@keokee.com Web Content: Keokee

The Sandpoint Reader is a weekly publication owned and operated by Ben Olson and Keokee. It is devoted to the arts, entertainment, politics and lifestyle in and around Sandpoint, Idaho.

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

The Reader is printed on recycled paper using soy-based ink. Leftover copies are collected and recycled weekly, or burned in massive bonfires to appease the gods of journalism.

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

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

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

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

About the Cover This week’s cover is a photograph taken by Ben Olson of the beautiful ceramic art on the wall near the public bathrooms at the Jeff Jones Town Square. The project was spearheaded

by Lynn Guier of the Arts Alliance, and includes work from Washington Elementary School Students. These ceramic displays brighten our town walls, and we thank all the artists who took part in the program.

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COMMENTARY The culinary underbelly of Sandpoint

By Louie de Palma For SPR

As you know, Sandpoint offers a plethora of delicious dining options, many of which have terrific ambiance, staff, and cuisine prepared by exceptional culinary wizards. All of these dining options unfortunately close by 11 p.m. This leaves many of my clientele to explore the few culinary options that exist in the late hours of the night, when hunger can strike in its most ferocious form. Call them the drunchies (drunk munchies).

Having limited time to cook or sit down for a meal, I myself have learned to eat from a few of our town underbelly dinning options, creating a new diet I’m sure will soon be a fad. I like to call it “trucker paleo”—it pairs perfectly with my rigorous sitfit routine of urban driving. The rules are simple: Stick to jerky and trail mix.

That said, I understand that not everyone is a health nut like myself. And when the drunchies hit—I mean, who cares, right? So I have prepared for your dining pleasure a guide to some great late-night eateries.

Paul’s Chevron — Pronounced (Pow-uules Chevrone) Upon entering Paul’s, you

will find a well-lit atmosphere with wide-set aisles to allow for optimal visibility and a reasonable amount of teetering and tottering while you make a choice. The staff conduct themselves with the utmost professionalism. They are friendly and quick with a joke. These professionals are the perfect guides for your culinary experience. There are many dry goods choices, including multiple flavors of Cheetos, jerky and all the key players of the candy world.

The real gems, however, are in the hot case. On display behind shimmering glass, you can find what locals have come to call bangers and mash. They await glistening in greasy perfection, catching the light like a diamond in the New Zealand sun. They consist of two hashbrown patties cooked to golden crispiness with a single sausage placed between them.

They are served open face. The flavor profile carries the humble and familiar qualities of the best comfort food. It also pairs nicely with taco sauce.

If that doesn’t do it for you, I recommend the Bomb Burrito or the Big AZ cheeseburger, (the AZ, I’m assuming, hints at an Arizona or Aztec culinary inspiration). Granted, you do

have to cook these items yourself in the microwave, but don’t worry: The exceptional staff members are more than happy to instruct you, just like at Benihana. It’s not just a meal—it’s an experience.

Schweitzer Conoco The Schweitzer Conoco is nestled at the edge of Ponderay with splendid views of forested areas and the sound of a babbling stream in the distance. It’s perfect for customers headed north of town. The lighting is a bit lower, offering a more intimate, soothing feel. There are two options I can wholeheartedly recommend at this stop, the first being the foot-long chili dog. This isn’t just any run-ofthe-mill chili dog. It was created by the culinary genius Don Miguel, whose portrait can be found on the wrapper. Chef Miguel has created something special for us here. He’s taken the normal chili dog and ingeniously discarded the bun, replacing it with a corn tortilla. This is a cultural fusion treat not often found in rural areas of the world, one we’re fortunate to have. It may possibly be gluten free: Check with the clerk.

The second option here is the classic nacho platter. The base layer of chips is really nothing special—the magic lies

within Gehl’s nacho cheese dispenser. Inside lies a substance of significant scientific breakthrough. It’s not quite a cheese and not quite a plastic but rests somewhere in the middle. I expect it to be added to the elemental chart any day. The best part about this product is it tastes the same hot or cold, so there’s no hurry to eat it.

Dairy Depot Last, we have the Dairy Depot. This is the Mecca of late night food venues, the Black Stone destination for drunken pilgrimages made by countless locals every evening. The depot has a wide variety, boasting a full grill and fry menu. You can’t go wrong with anything here, but I recommend the Bulldog meal. You get a burger, fries and drink for about $7, fresh and cooked right there. However, I recommend substituting the fries for jojos. The jojos are unreal, seasoned with something that makes regular fries look like cauliflower and seem just as pointless. The cauliflower, after all, is the two dollar bill of the vegetable world—like, why is it even here?

Tater tots also seem to be popular here, especially with the Greek community, or at least the fraternal Greek community that does not include

people from Greece. But hey, put a little Tzatziki on those tots and you might have something. I learned of the fraternal brothers’ love for tots when a whole cab of them were choking them down, popping them like the Advil they’d be inhaling the next morning. This all happened at the same time they were discussing the finer points of tossing salads. Apparently, they were taking a night off from eating healthy.

Hopefully this will help some of you make a decision next time the drunchies hit.

If you’re having a hard time making a decision, feel free to ask the cabbie what to eat.

I’ve seen some interesting gas station creations out there, and I’m happy to help guide you into your morning regret. Just remember if you’re feeling like getting Greek at the Dairy Depot, call it in before you call me so it’s ready to go when we arrive. On the other hand, you could just go home and toss a salad.

Chamber Chick Connection name change raises some eyelashes

By Mindy Cameron For SPR So, dear readers of the Reader, what do you know about the Chamber Chick Connection?

Is it: 1. An organization for people in the poultry business?

2. A dating site for local businessmen?

3. An April Fool’s joke?

4. A re-branding of the former Women in Business group in the Sandpoint Chamber?

Bingo, if you selected no. 4.

I first read about the Chamber Chick Connection last year in that other local newspaper. As I’ve asked people what they think about it, I get these responses: “Is 4 /

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that for real?”, “That’s derogatory,” “I wouldn’t join a group that calls itself ‘chicks.’”

Neither would I. Most women of my age who have had a professional career tell stories about the days when we were treated as if we were mere “chicks” in the workplace.

At my first newspaper job in Boise, I asked for a $10-a-week raise to match that of a male colleague who did a similar job. The boss said no. Why? “He has a family to support.” Not that it should have mattered, but I was then the major support for my family while my husband was getting his business started.

A few years and few jobs later, I was doing a live TV interview for Idaho Public Television

with a well-known politician who tried to play knee-sies with me. I’ve always wished I had blurted out then and there, “Keep your #@!# knees to yourself.”

The politician’s career continued, and so did his reputation as a philanderer and a cad.

Fast-forward to Sandpoint 2015. Thankfully, the “Mad Men” era of women as chicks in the workplace is largely history.

But, oddly enough, some women are now trying to reclaim the word “chick” for their own use.

In fact, there is something of an international “Chick Movement” underway, and ladies at our local Chamber of Commerce have signed on.

The Chamber Chick Connection, a re-branding of the

former Women in Business, was announced last year on April 1. Surely, some thought it was an April fool’s joke. In fact, it grew out of a serious attempt to change the image of the Chamber’s Women in Business.

Judy Baird, vice president of Mountain West Bank and former director of the Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce, explained the transition, which began in typical business fashion, with a strategic planning session focused on: “Where are we going? What is our mission?”

They agreed that “connection”—to the Chamber and to each other—was a key attribute, said Baird. But they also wanted to entice more women into the organization by promising a

more open and inclusive group, more networking opportunities, and—perhaps most important— more fun. It was not just for business women but for all women interested in personal development.

Internet research led them to chick: Chickchat in Seattle, Chicksconnect in Oregon, Busi-

(continued on next page)

PERSPECTIVES

By Stephen Drinkard For SPR Consider downtown Sandpoint’s hanging flower baskets; the Christmas lights on city trees; the water fountain at the Jeff Jones Square; the Sand Creek boardwalk featuring historic photos; the trees along Fifth Avenue; the metal band shell at Farmin Park; the City Beach courts; the marinas; Sandpoint Parks and Recreation’s educational programming; the Panida Theater restoration; the bike and walking path along Sand Creek; the artistic, concrete boardwalk benches; the Sand Creek Arch; Mark Kubiak’s Grizzly Bear; Peter Goetzinger’s David Thompson statue and Tammy Farmin’s bronze tortoise and hare.

What do all these works of public art have in common?

They are all non-essential, or so budget hawks would argue. Whether it’s public funding for tree planting, Christmas light stringing, a cool band shell, or programs on bridge or bike maintenance, it’s true they’re not needs. On this we agree, if only in a very narrow frame of reference.

In that narrow frame, everyone would agree to spend tax dollars on roads, water and sewer services, law enforcement and fire protection. But everyone who lives in and near a city likes certain non-essential services or products, whether they consciously admit it or not. When people do agree that they like having parks, marinas, tree canopies and boardwalks, some will still argue that public art is truly non-essential, whereas bike paths are not.

It’s a specious argument. Public art funding is always in line behind even the cost of stringing Christmas lights or paying for Jeff Jones Square fountain maintenance. But people always find ways to fund arts through grants, donations or foundations and indirectly through urban renewal public works

By Christian Fioravanti For SPR

projects and some federal highway projects.

There is a state funded arts agency in all 50 states, even in the reddest red of states. Together they fund about $230 million annually in grants in 4,500 communities for programs, art works and actions to preserve cultural traditions in folk art. Our state governments evidently agree there is a need.

For example, if some Christians had their way, they would gladly spend tax dollars on Christmas Nativity scenes in front of city hall. I understand perfectly their impulse to want expressions of deeper values publicly displayed. That’s what public art is—the display of deeper values than we encounter in our daily lives. We want to feel and see and hear expressions of whimsy and our history and our cleverness and our spiritual and moral aspirations.

It is a daily bread that people go without in bland, mercantile-lined arterials in large sections of cities; or in towns with no money for anything beyond paying for the essential services or in towns devastated by war. All these people are, in some way, “starving.”

It is a sensory feast to walk into the healing garden near the hospital and chuckle at the concrete hippopotamus emerging from the earth. Seeing a child pet the head of Kubiak’s chiseled grizzly bear near the entrance to Sand Creek bike path always inspires a smile.

Young and old, poor and rich can experience this luxury of public art.

Do you want to live in luxury or in poverty? “Yah pays yah money and yah takes yur choice.”

Chamber Chicks continued nesschicks in Australia. One of the websites declares a Chick movement and has spun off Jersey Peeps in New Jersey; in Oregon, Frisky Chicks in Bend and in my hometown of Beaverton, Chocolate Chicks. (I am not making this up!)

Baird said the local team decided to go for it. “We wanted a sense of celebration and fun. Calling ourselves the Chamber Chick Connection was like putting fresh paint out there.”

How is it working so far?

You could say—and I will—that the

chicks haven’t yet come home to roost on that one. Baird said there wasn’t much immediate push-back, other than a woman who suggested “Chamber Chick Connection” wouldn’t look good on her resume.

Attendance fluctuates, said Baird, and only four women (chicks?) showed up for a recent get-together at the Pottery Bug. I am all for women empowering women, and mixing fun with serious life pursuits. And I sincerely wish for success of the Sandpoint Chamber group.

Call me a cackling old hen if you like,

What role should the government play in funding and establishing public art?

One of the most important, fundamental questions we must ask ourselves is, “What is the proper role of government?” There is a famous quote which is believed to have originated from George Washington that says, “Government is not reason, it is not eloquence— it is force.”

I find this to be true. You must pay taxes or you go to jail. It does not matter whether or not you agree with it, or if the tax is even justified. If you don’t pay, you go to jail. The government is using force to ensure you pay “your fair share.”

Consequently, should the government have the right to force you to pay taxes that fund public art? Absolutely not. For one, I do not believe our founders ever intended for government to be involved in such a role.

Secondly, why do we need the government to fund and control great works of public art? If you cherish amazing works of art as I do, why can’t you and I get together and fund charitable art projects for our community? That is how it used to be done and continues to be so in several towns across America.

We don’t need the government to subsidize or accept federal grants from the shady NEA (National Endowment for the Arts) to do so.

Does the government play any role in public art? There is only one purpose in which I see government playing a role: oversight. If a charitable group would like to pay for a sculpture to be built in downtown Sandpoint, I do believe the proper procedure would be to first introduce their plans to the city council.

but I just do not understand how adopting a chick brand leads to more fun or serves to advance or uplift the women of this or any community.

The only chick connection I am interested in is the one I will make next month when I go to the Post Office to pick up the baby chicks I will raise over the summer into a beautiful flock of laying hens.

Mindy Cameron retired in 2001 as editorial page editor of the Seattle Times and moved to Sagle.

They must submit a proposal and introduce plans for approval. Once the city has signed off, they should be free to fully fund and complete their project.

Why waste precious resources funding projects outside the scope of government responsibility? Nationally, the deficit is so out of control, our grandchildren will be doomed to a life of debt slavery. Statewide, Idaho cannot seem to find a way to fund basic infrastructure, roads and bridges. We have a broken education system that absorbs mass taxpayer dollars every year without success. Locally, our counties and cities are struggling to survive and losing countless young families to our sluggish economy.

Therefore, does it seem logical to spend the people’s money on public art?

These frivolous government projects are killing communities around the country.

Art can be a beautiful thing that promotes and expands the quality of a community! Citizens should be encouraged to work together in creating and funding art projects that benefit everyone. More government is not the answer—ingenuity of the people is the solution.

LETTERS Dear Editor, I noticed a few weeks ago the Reader started showing up again, but, alas, no “Single in Sandpoint” articles by the hilarious Scarlette Quille. Then a couple days ago, I checked again and was very stoked that she is in fact back. I still have dozens of old issues that I kept vowing to wallpaper something, somewhere, someday in her honor. Very happy to see she is back doing what she is meant to do. No one gets a bigger kick out of her stories than myself. Welcome back Scarlette and everyone involved with the paper.

Brad Schwartz Sandpoint March 19, 2015 /

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NEWS

Local option tax up for consideration again

By Cameron Rasmusson For SPR

Could the second time be the charm for a Sandpoint local option tax? The Sandpoint City Council is considering re-introducing the proposal that, if approved by voters, would add a 1-percent sales tax within the city. An item that would appear on the ballot this November, the tax requires a supermajority of 60 percent to pass.

Council members unanimously approved staff to develop the proposal, but it won’t be an official ballot measure until they vote on the completed reso-

lution, an action they’ll consider around May. The tax is proposed as a measure to raise revenue for the dilapidated Memorial Field grandstands. Local activists The Friends of Memorial Field have spent the last several years raising money for the project, but Mayor Carrie Logan feels the grandstands need public support to push them toward the $1.5 million in renovation costs.

According to Parks and Recreation Director Kim Woodruff, time is running out for the grandstands, which probably have fewer than five years remaining before they are condemned for use. He

Senior Center kicks off Craft Fair

By Cameron Rasmusson For SPR Feeling a little crafty this weekend?

Then drop by the Senior Center to get inspired this weekend with a variety of crafts and handmade items at the inaugural Spring Craft Fair.

Occurring at the Sandpoint Area Seniors Center, 820 Main St., from 5-9 p.m.

Friday and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, the

BRIEFS

Reader selected for grant If you saw me or publisher Ben Olson walking with a little extra bounce in our step this week, there’s good reason.

On Wednesday, Boise State University officials announced they’d selected the Sandpoint Reader as one of the beneficiaries for their 2015 Idaho Media Initiative Public Affairs Reporting grant program.

That means the Reader will receive a $2,000 grant to tackle an in-depth reporting project. We’ve chosen to use the money as a stipend for a college intern we aim to bring on board during the summer. We’ll no doubt have more details as we move along in the planning process, but for now, we extend a big thank you to Boise State University for honoring us with this grant. [CR] 6 /

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fair will feature booths manned by crafters from all over the region.

Given that March 20 is the first official day of spring, senior center director Ellen Weissman can’t think of a better way to honor the day than a burst of new creativity. Even better, the event will support the center’s essential services, which include meal deliveries, regular social events for seniors and much more.

sees the local option tax as a way to draw revenue from a larger pool of people— after all, residents and out-of-towners alike use the public parks. As opposed to a bond, which is paid exclusively by local residents, a sales tax would collect tourist dollars as well.

“This is a mechanism … to give others the opportunity to participate,” Woodruff said.

If the tax were enacted, it would mean an additional half-cent on a $5 purchase.

For a $1,000 purchase, it would add an extra $10. Assuming Sandpoint takes in 25 percent of Bonner County’s annual sales, the proposal would generate an

Boomer’s Dog Biscuits by Brittany Longden

Freedom Rider to give Angels Over Sandpoint preparing scholarships presentation Here’s a weekend event you won’t want to miss: At 2 p.m. Saturday in Sandpoint Community Hall, Max Pavesic will give a presentation of his experiences as a Freedom Rider in 1961, just as the Civil Rights Movement was heating up.

A UCLA student at the time, Pavesic was arrested for his activism in Jackson, Miss., eventually getting transferred to a state penitentiary. With the recent 50year anniversary of the historic Selma to Montgomery March, there’s no better opportunity than Pavesic’s talk to experience the Civil Rights Movement locally.

In addition to being a part of the nation’s history, Pavesic is a retired professor of archaeology from Boise State University and also served as chairman of the board for the Idaho State Historical Society. No doubt he’ll have a fascinating talk in store for Sandpoint this weekend. [CR]

As always, the Follies turned out to be a huge success, packing the Panida Theater with its raucous fun. Even better, the event was a huge success in raising money for Angels Over Sandpoint.

Now it’s time to start determining some of the beneficiaries of that money.

Local youth can apply for both a community service scholarship and an arts scholarship for private classes, materials, tuition or other expenses in visual, vocal, theater, dance or writing arts.

Applications are due April 11. Visit www.angelsoversandpoint.org/aboutus/programs/ for applications and more information. [CR]

Event celebrates trails, ales How can you beat the beautiful Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail? What about adding beer into the mix? Idaho Conser-

additional $864,257 for Memorial Field and general parks maintenance.

While the council was supportive of the measure overall, they were also cautious about the way they approached introducing the local option tax. For many, the simple word “tax” is enough to draw vehement opposition, they said.

This isn’t the first time the City Council has considered a local sales tax.

More than half of local voters approved a 2012 ballot measure for a 0.5-percent local option tax, but it failed to crack the 60-percent threshold.

vation League, Harmony Engineering and Design and the Friends of the Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail aim to do just that with their Ales and Trails event.

From 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, March 24 at Laughing Dog Brewing, 1109 Fontaine Dr. in Ponderay, trail lovers of all stripes will be out to plan the future of trail improvements. With Harmony Design and Engineering contracted by the Friends to draft a master plan for the Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail, they’re seeking input into the improvements the community wants to see.

Of course, there’s always great, locally brewed beer to consider. And friend, Laughing Dog has you squared away on that count. [CR]

Eminent domain limits pass House

Worried the government is eyeing your property, envisioning the nice walking path it could put there instead?

Looks like you are in luck, hypothetical person. The Idaho House cleared a bill this week limiting the government’s power to enact eminent domain, according to the Associated Press.

The process by which the government can force you to give up land for public projects, eminent domain is rarely used but always controversial. The new bill restricts the government from using the process for trails or greenways and has already cleared the Senate.

House Republicans see the proposal as strengthening property rights, the Associated Press reports. On the other hand, Democrats said it removes an important tool from cities looking to establish trails. [CR]

FEATURE

The legacy of public art in Sandpoint

By Cameron Rasmusson For SPR

Call her Sandsky, the Sandpoint Banksy.

One night in 2012, she struck near the railroad bridge at Pack River. By the time she finished, a colorfully painted fish adorned what was once a bare concrete slab. Months later, the Pack River fish was gray-washed, but that didn’t dissuade Sandsky. It wasn’t long before a whole new fish greeted drivers heading toward Pack River Road.

“I hope this one doesn’t get washed over, but if it does, I’ll just paint another one,” said Sandsky.

Not everyone approves of Sandsky’s methods, dubious as they are in legality. Even so, she is just one local actor in the impulse to not just create, but to also have that creation bleed into public spaces. It represents a question Sandpoint has spent the last decade trying to answer: What roles do people, businesses and government play in bringing art to the community?

Public art paid with tax dollars can be a controversial process. On a national level, one need only look at the debate surrounding the National Endowment for the Arts to find a multitude of opinions. A micro-scale version of that debate takes place right here in Sandpoint, with some praising public art policies and others decrying them.

Then there’s the entirely separate issue of public art that receives a mixed or negative response. Bonner County officials experienced just such a headache with the Tolerance sculpture, a wood-and-metal piece donated to the county in the early 2000s.

It received its fair share of criticism, with some calling it unsightly and others claiming the piece depicted a homosexual sex act. Commissioners ultimately decided to take the piece down after they discovered wood rot, former commissioner Cornel Rasor said.

“It was mostly from a maintenance standpoint that it was tak-

en down,” he added.

Carol Deaner, chairperson of the Sandpoint Arts Commission, sees that public feedback as an essential part of the process, regardless of whether its positive or negative. She said the commission got started in the mid2000s after being initiated by Mayor Ray Miller. A body made up of community members with experience in the arts, the commission recommends direction for the Sandpoint City Council on public art projects.

“I think [Sandpoint’s public art policy] brings a lot of value to the city,” Deaner said. “It’s a source of local stimulation.”

According to Deaner, the commission is always looking for parts of town that are unremarkable or unsightly. Members then consider methods to make those areas a little more visually interesting. They aim to inject character and vitality into town with projects like the Sand Creek Archway, a colorful collection of fish and shapes that covers a well-traveled downtown stretch near the Panida Theater.

Arts Commission projects, Deaner said, are funded through the Sandpoint Urban Renewal Agency, which seeks to improve economic activity and overall value in different taxing areas throughout town. The commission considers projects in both the northern and downtown districts.

For example, the commission has plans in place to improve the showers at City Beach, enhancing the tiles and beautifying the facilities. The commission also recently had a 14-foot by 8-foot bike sculpture approved by the council for installation by early summer.

Some projects go more smoothly than others. The Sand Creek Archway, for instance, has both enthusiastic supporters and critics. While Deaner has heard from locals that don’t care for its vibrant colors, she said the piece is also a favorite among tourists. Either way, the archway still strikes up conversation, and

The “Pack River Fish” by a local artist who shall remain unnamed

that in itself is one of the commission’s goals.

“The thing we want to do as a commission is to make sure people are talking,” Deaner said.

The urban artwork alleyway project on Cedar Street between First and Second avenues certainly did just that. The project began as a way to introduce new art styles and younger artists into the public art process. Deaner said as the alleyway began to fill up with graffiti-style artwork, she got feedback from people who didn’t enjoy the new look on some signature Sandpoint buildings.

On the other hand, judgments may be a bit premature. After all, the project is not yet complete.

Deaner helped recruit Sandpoint High School art teacher Zabrielle Dillon to help move the project along.

“I didn’t exactly know what I’d bitten off when I agreed to do this,” Dillon said.

Indeed, it was no small project. The alleyway stretches for two city blocks—an intimidatingly sized canvas for any artist. Dillon recruited her students to aid the process. They spent months just discussing ideas and themes before settling on a galactic imagery of astronauts and cosmic wonders. The simple creation of the artwork became a

public spectacle in itself, Dillon said.

“People were drawn to watch the art being created,” she said.

One of the most popular pieces within the alley, a rainbow cascading down the wall, was even inspired by a dream. Dillon saw the image dominating her mind’s eye as she slept one night.

The very next day, she gathered a group of her students together.

They completed the image in 45 minutes.

Of course, the project is influenced by far more elements than a single dream. In addition to Dillon and her students, a local young artist, Cody Newton, provided an fundamental vision. He was involved in the project even before Dillon and laid its groundwork.

For Deaner, the process of seeing the alley art come to-

gether has been fascinating. And once again, whether people love or hate it, it’s still getting them talking.

“I think in a lot of ways, art needs to be controversial,” Deaner said.

Whether it’s a fish painted on the sly in the dead of night or a mural that goes through several rounds of government meetings, public art has become a part of Sandpoint character. Deaner doesn’t see that changing anytime soon. As long as the public will is behind keeping Sandpoint an art-focused community, she says the city will follow through.

“We’re lucky we have a City Council that supports public art and a community that wants it to be a part of town,” Deaner said.

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Sandpoint Strikers FUNdraiser 5:30pm - 7:30pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Join us for a night of wine, appetizers and FUNdraising for the soccer team. Tickets $25 or two for $40. Call 255-6365 for info

Live Music w/ Bare Grass 5:30pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Bluegrass done right. Which means fast, furious, and full of energy. Always a fantastic band to see live.

Irish Film “Run and Jump” 7:30pm @ Panida Theater

Open Mic w/ Scott Rei 6 - 9pm @ Monarch Mo All are welcome, come you’ve got! Everyone h be shy and share your ta

Third Friday Music 5:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall This week live music from Devon Wade, the Sandpoint country superstar. 10 beers on tap, and always a boot-load of good times

A Talk w/ Freedom Rider Max Pavesic 2pm @ Sandpoint Community Center Hear a presentation from an activist from the Civil Rights Movement. We at the Reader will be there. You bet Spring Crafts Fair 9am - 4pm @ Sandpoint Senior Center

Spike Cancer!

5pm @ Ponderay Events Center A fundraiser to benefit Cindy Derr in her fight against kidney cancer. Silent auction begins at 5 pm, and a catered dinner by Ivano’s Ristorante will be served at 6 pm. Buy tickets from Staci Live Music w/ Justin Lantrip 5:30pm - 7:30pm @ Idaho Pour Authority Bailey by calling 208-610-4274 Live Music w/ Ron Criscoine 5:30pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery

Spring 5pm Crafte a varie

Live M 5pm Where

2nd 12p Reg help Gam hot

L -S ni di

Free concert by Bridges Home! - 1:30pm - 3pm @ East Bonner County Public Libr This is the annual Friend of the Library event to thank the community for supporting Monday Night Blues Jam w/ Truck Mills 7:30pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Truck knows how to put on a good show.

Always entertaining, always different Karaoke Night 9pm - Midnight @ 219 Lounge Trivia Night 7pm - 9pm @ MickDuff’s Answer from last week: Harper Lee. Impress your friends... quote useless trivia

Dance Classes: Club Swing an 7pm @ Sandpoint West Athletic No membership needed at SWAC person for 4 classes, $56/couple Call Diane at 620-1770 for more

Ales and Trails 5pm - 8pm @ Laughing Dog Brewe Join Friends of Pend d’Oreille Ba League for an evening devoted to fu

Installation of new Elks Club Offi 5:30pm @ Elks Golf Course

Bingo Night 6:30 @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Northstar Winery Dinner Forty-One South (across the Long Bridge) Five course dinner paired with Northstar wines. $75/person, includes tax and gratuity. Tickets sell out fast! 265-2000 “Live @ The Office” w/ Josh Hedlund 6pm @ Sandpoint Reader Office The beloved Sandpoint songwriter performs your favorites in the perfect setting. Tickets are $5 and go on sale Monday the 23rd. Buy them at the Reader office at 111 Cedar St. Suite 9. Space is limited, so don’t miss out. See story on page 13

CHaFE 5:30pm Live m tizers a beer an Nothing

ful

id ountain Coffee on down and show us what has something to offer, so don’t alent. It’s always worth it

g Crafts Fair 9pm @ Sandpoint Senior Center ers from around the area will be offering ety of homemade items. Join the fun!

Music w/ Marty Perron & Doug Bond 7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority e everybody knows your name

d Annual Penguin Plunge pm @ Beach House Pavilion gister at 11 to test your hardiness! Proceeds p support the local Special Olympics team. mes, prizes, costume contest, silent auction, drinks, lions, tigers, bears... oh my

March 19 - 26, 2015

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

Reader recommended

Five Course Irish Beer Dinner 6pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall MickDuff’s is teaming up with Two Lakes Catering for a five course Irish Beer Dinner. Pre-registration and pre-payment only, must reserve by Monday, March 16 and space is limited. Cost is $40 and $35 for muggers!And no, this doesn’t mean purse snatchers.

Macbeth (as you’ve never seen it before!)

7:30pm @ The Heartwood Center Witness Macbeth’s nightmare unfold in intimate detail as he takes on his bloody quest to conquer the crown of Scotland. With intense battle scenes and chilling special effects, local Michael Bigley’s adaptation will leave you stunned Macbeth is in its final weekend, so don’t miss out!

Admission is $14 general, $12 students and seniors

Macbeth (as you’ve never seen it before!)

7:30pm @ The Heartwood Center Closing night! Don’t miss it, ye bloody fools!

Live Music w/ Harold’s IGA and Cedar & Boyer -pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Special pairing of two local Sandpoint indie bands in one ight. Always a unique performance... expect magic. Or isaster. Either way it’s free and they serve beer

rary Lobby g the Library

nd the Slow Dance Club C to attend, open to the public. $36/ e, members of SWAC get discount. e information

ery ay Trail and Idaho Conservation uture plans for the Bay Trail.

Holistic Fair 1pm - 6pm @ Inquire Within (516 Oak Street) The Vernal Equinox when the Sun enters the astrological sign of Aries, a New Moon and a Solar Eclipse are all occurring on March 20th.

This is a time of New Beginnings. Visit www.inquirewithinsandpoint.com for info.

Upcoming Events

March 26 - “Live @ The Office” with Josh Hedlund March 27 & 28, April 3 & 4

Venus in Fur @ Hope Marketplace March 28 - Marshall McLean Band @ Panida Theater April 10 - Shook Twins @ The Hive. Waldorf School

Fundraiser with opening band Mama Doll

Not a show to be missed!

ficers

E 150 Gran Fondo Happy Hour Benefit for Autism Research m - 7 pm @ Idaho Pour Authority music from Marty Perron and Doug Bond, complimentary appeand lots of raffle prizes. What could be better than drinking good nd listening to live tunes with local bike riders for a good cause? g, that’s what. Sponsored by the Sandpoint Rotary

Cards Against Humanity 7pm @ Neighborhood Pub We dare you

Live Music w/ Grace and Tony “Punkgrass” 7:30pm @ Di Luna’s She played bluegrass. He played punk… when Grace and Tony White met, they fell in love and the music just followed after. A unique duo meshing unique backgrounds from gospel to rock to bluegrass to punk, all wrapped up in one. Tickets $10 in advance, $12 day of show. Dinner service starts at 5:30pm

Sandpoint Waldorf School: an aesthetic education Sandpoint Waldorf School teacher Sarah Shaffer’s thirdgrade classroom begins the school day spelling words and jumping ropes.

The rope spins faster, the words become more difficult, and the students sharpen their focus to meet the challenge. It’s a morning routine that exemplifies this oneof-a-kind Idaho school—a small part of an international education community that aligns a child’s curriculum with his or her cognitive maturation.

“Movement is a big part of the children’s day,” says Tricia Sullivan, the school’s bright-eyed and soft-spoken administrator—not the principal, as there are no principals in Waldorf schools.

“Instead,” Sullivan says, “the faculty as a whole provide direction.”

Head, Heart, Hands Kindergarteners begin their day outside on an elaborate log structure custom built by parents.

Even on dreary, inversion-filled mornings, smiles abound on the playground.

“It may look like play,” Sullivan says, “but [the kindergarteners] are learning negotiations, math. When they come inside, they will have an elaborate story told to them or a puppet play.”

“I don’t imagine many public kindergarten classrooms look like this anymore,” Sullivan adds, admiring the pink curtained room full of wooden toys.

One corner houses a climbing loft, under which is a wooden barn. The room holds all-natural materials—wools, silks, rocks and a sand table for imaginative play.

The space looks like the best possible version of your grandma’s living room.

“Kindergarten is not academically-oriented,” Sullivan says, “It is about … building a foundation.

There are so many foundational things children need to go through before they can enter the academic world.”

Waldorf education aligns curriculum with the phases of a child’s development. In first grade, students learn fairy and folk tales and nature stories. They begin rhythmic counting. They have pictorial and phonetic introductions to letters and word families. In this way, students form a relationship 10 /

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with letters like characters in a book.

Second grade continues with saints, fables, local folklore and nature tales. The students begin to understand grammar and punctuation, as well as simple multiplication and division.

By fifth grade, the students are reading Greek myths and learning American geography related to vegetation, agriculture, and economics. They begin freehand geometry and botany. As their own consciousness develops, so does their understanding of the evolution of human consciousness.

“Art and music are integrated into the curriculum everyday as a way to break out the curriculum,” Sullivan says. “Art and music serve as a platform for bringing more academic content.”

Waldorf seeks to school “the head, the hands and the heart” by nurturing the intellectual, emotional, and imaginative life of each child. All students learn to knit, crochet, sew, garden, woodwork, speak Spanish and play musical instruments. With this approach, Waldorf cultivates socially-able, emotionally in-tune and free-thinking students.

Waldorf’s educational philosophy and the daily happenings at the Sandpoint Waldorf school can be traced back to one man, Rudolf Steiner.

The Science of Spirit Rudolf Steiner was a student of mathematics, science and philosophy. Born in Austria (in what is now Croatia) in 1861, he spent most of his life studying consciousness and cognition. Steiner, author of more than 30 books and 60,000 lectures, fostered a science of spirit called anthroposophy, meaning “wisdom of the human being.”

Steiner’s most visible legacy, however, is that of Waldorf education, which has birthed 900 schools in 83 countries. He based the first school on four principles: It would be free and open to all children. It would provide coeducation. It would be a unified 12-year school, and the teachers would run the school, not the government.

The Core of Waldorf is not Common Sandpoint’s Waldorf School is relatively young in comparison to the national boom that opened many Waldorf schools during the 1970s. Founded in 1992 by a group of parents familiar with

Yvette McGowan’s sixth- and seventh-grade class listens closely at Sandpoint Waldorf School

Steiner’s philosophies, the school serves preschool through eighthgrade students.

Unlike other preschool, elementary and middle schools in Sandpoint, Waldorf adheres to its own curriculum—a curriculum and educational philosophy practiced internationally for nearly 100 years. Sandpoint Waldorf is not obligated to follow Common Core, a set of education standards adopted by most U.S. states.

While Sandpoint Waldorf is an accredited school, it does not face the obstacles of government standards. Without state funding, it instead relies on grants, fundraising, and tuition.

Joining the Round Table Yvette McGowan’s sixth- and seventh-grade class can hardly keep from shouting over one another. They are discussing the rules—and the meaning behind those rules—regarding the student and teacher dress code. Feisty and well-spoken, they are a thoughtful bunch determined to understand and revise those rules. Their bond with McGowan, forged from the Waldorf practice of cycling teachers through grades with the same class of students, is evident.

McGowan announces she has tests to distribute, and the room immediately topples over—not with the expected groan of middle schoolers but with a ringing of “yeses” so loud it causes even McGowan to stop and chuckle.

The tests covered a three-week block during which the students studied astronomy. They did not

use textbooks. Instead, the students created their own books based on McGowan’s lessons. It’s part of a policy to explore a subject from several different angles, be they artistic, linguistic or scientific.

“We do this because you don’t know what will make the [subject] click for each student,” Sullivan says.

After the students review their exams, sing a song in round and test their mental math in an “around the world” game, they are ready to begin their next block of study, King Arthur. The story builds over 15 minutes, and with it the students’ attention.

“We are trying to create a rhythm,” McGowan says.

“Rhythm replaces authority.”

That sensibility even hangs from the school walls. A whole hallway is devoted to drawings and essays from eighth-grade students, each portrait more aware of

light and shading than the last. A quilt handmade by students decorates the wall near the front office.

Given Waldorf’s distinct education style, people often wonder how students handle the transition to high school. Sullivan doesn’t see cause for concern.

“Our students do really well in high school,” she says. “I have teachers tell me that they can always tell a Waldorf student because they are the first to raise their hands in class. They love to learn.”

It’s an encouraging reality for the Waldorf staff. After all, they’re not just putting time into a day job—they’re preparing young minds for a lifetime of education.

“We don’t want to discourage children, to quash any of their enthusiasm,” Sullivan says. “We want them to keep learning for the rest of their lives. Waldorf is about building the individual parts of a whole child.”

Ivan Jones, left, utilizes a special four-square technique outside the SWS. His opponents Ethan Hirschauer, middle, and Henry Barnes, right, prepare to strike

Photographs by Ben Olson

By Jennifer Passaro For SPR

STAGE & SCREEN

Macbeth in review

By Cameron Rasmusson For SPR I’ve long held that for the right type of teenager, “Macbeth” is the perfect introduction to Shakespeare. It’s action-packed, soaked in sinister atmosphere and has a gloomy worldview that resonates with a certain moody adolescent mindset. “Life really is all sound and fury signifying nothing,” thought teenage me upon reading the play. “Screw geometry. I’m going to play ‘Final Fantasy VII’ for six hours.”

My outlook on life has brightened since then, but “Macbeth” is still my favorite

Shakespeare play. So it was a real treat to see its treatment by director Michael Bigley and Unknown Locals last weekend in a Saturday performance that packed the Heartwood Center and required overflow seating.

Right from the warfare scenes that open the play, it’s apparent how much work the crew has put into the many duels and battles. Indeed, martial artist Cory Repass developed a new style of stage fighting specifically for the show. At its best, the choreography is frenetic and brutal. The climactic duel between Macbeth and Macduff, for instance, is a genuinely thrilling brawl between

S K C I P E I V O M

Dion Nizzi and Jeremiah Campbell, ready to strike at a moment’s notice

two men with nothing to lose.

The cast does a fine job carrying the story’s dark thematic development from Macbeth’s first taste of power to his inevitable downfall. And in keeping with the spirit of the text, Bigley’s production doesn’t minimize the play’s bawdy humor and carnal motivations. It’s a visceral experience from beginning to end.

Check out “Macbeth” during its closing performances this Friday and Saturday at the Heartwood Center, 615 Oak St. Doors open at 7 p.m. and performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $14 for adults and $12 for students and seniors and are available at Eve’s Leaves or at the door.

It must be tough to be a Disney movie executive these days. Their Marvel Cinematic Universe movies are only raking in cash by the billions, for one thing. And then they’ve got that tiny independent film coming down the line, “Star Wars Episode VII.” God knows that’s going to be a flop.

They’re making profit, sure, but it’s not build-the-Death-Star-for-real profit. Good thing they have decades of intellectual property to resurrect. Enter “Cinderella,” a retelling of the company’s classic animated feature.

Already a certified hit with tidy box office receipts and strong critical reviews, the film features an excellent cast and blindingly colorful cinematography. If that sounds appealing, pile your family into your own pumpkin carriage for a night at the theater.

If you’re feeling less “one day my prince will come” and more “do irreparable bodily harm to that bad guy,” “Kingsman” might be the movie for you. It’s held on tight in the box office thanks to its highly stylized action sequences and, by most accounts, a terrific performance from Colin Firth.

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TRAVEL A Montana Weekend

By Ben Olson For SPR

There’s just something about Montana.

It’s like America all wrapped up in camouflage, carrying a six-pack of cheap beer and wearing a smile from ear to ear.

Once a month, my girlfriend Cadie and I love to pack all of our crap in the car and scoot out of town for a Montana weekend. We usually choose Symes Hot Springs as our destination, but it’s the journey that matters most.

The directions to Symes are simple; drive east on Highway 200, continue past Thompson Falls to Plains, turn north onto Highway 28 toward Hot Springs. Two and a half hours is what the Mothership says it takes, but that’s if you drive straight there. Who the hell wants to do that?

The drive from Hope into Montana is beautiful, winding along the Clark Fork River and past the Cabinet Gorge Dam,

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where a stop at the viewpoint is always worth the five minutes it takes. Also, don’t forget to stop at the spring just short of Heron to fill your water bottles.

The water is clean and cold and comes shooting out fast enough to fill your gallon bottle in a second flat.

We like to stop at the Big Sky Pantry in Noxon. This little slice of bakery heaven is always staffed by smiling people and smells of fresh-baked bread and pastries.

Onward, we enter the world of Montana junk stores. The signs usually say “Antiques” but it’s really just junk. They are so much fun to poke through.

Just past Thompson Falls is a bighorn sheep viewing area.

The peak times to see the herds are from November to April.

Just be careful on the highway, as many accidents occur around this area.

Heather’s Country Kitchen in Plains is a great diner to

stop for lunch, or better yet, for breakfast on your drive home.

Finally, hours later, the car filling up with junk—er, “antiques”— we reach our destination: Hot Springs, Montana.

The first time I went to Hot Springs, I thought someone had played a cruel joke on me. The town is a dirty smudge on an empty plain, with half a dozen struggling businesses along a Main Street that has seen better days. There is nothing picturesque about the town.

But, after you check into Symes and walk around a bit, you notice life. The Camas Organic Market is a pleasant surprise, selling wonderful baked goods and locally grown produce. It is one of the only gluten free bakeries in western Montana.

Fergie’s Bar has great, down-home pub food. We were shocked when our corned beef and cabbage dinner tasted just like it came out of an Irish mother’s kitchen.

Finally, the hot springs: Checking into Symes is like entering another world. Montana people are so real, it’s almost scary. There is a no-nonsense humor about them that puts you immediately at ease.

They sometimes swear, or say

something completely inappropriate, without apology.

There’s nothing phony about Montana folks.

The price list for rooms varies from economy with one bed and no shower for around $50, to “deluxe” cabins with kitchens and multiple beds for around $150.

After you check in, you get to pick out a robe. This is what you’ll wear for the next fifteen hours, so choose wisely.

The rooms will bring a smile to your face. The furniture is old and rickety, and the lighting is usually just a bare bulb hanging from the ceiling. When I opened the bathroom window, it came off the hinges in my hands. Somehow this is all OK. You don’t come to Symes for the deluxe accommodations.

You come for the hot water and the people watching.

Donning our borrowed robes, we shuffle down to the pools. Nobody feels sexy when they walk down to the pools.

Nor would they want to. It’s a refreshingly un-sexy place.

There are a number of pools,

ranging from lukewarm to scalding. The mineral content, according to the sassy receptionist is “number two in the world,” whatever that means.

The conversations you overhear always make for good banter later in the privacy of your room.

Last time, the place was overrun with Russians. An older couple spoke about the hardware in their joints and their degrading health problems. A young woman talked loudly about her “pill-popping boyfriend.”

If you like to soak in silence, don’t go on the weekends. Or hit the pool first thing in the morning. Or wear ear plugs.

As there are no phones or televisions at Symes, bring a deck of cards or some dominoes. There is live music on Saturday nights, and dinner usually 5-10 p.m.

Bottom line; Symes Hot Springs is a delightful getaway as long as you’re not a snob. It makes for the perfect Montana weekend destination.

The pools at Symes Hot Springs, where you can soak in hot mineral water and eavesdrop like a champ

MUSIC

This week’s RLW by Cameron Rasmusson

Slow Motion Fast Forward:

READ

A backstage pass to see what it’s really like being in a band

By Sarah Berentson For SPR Imagine this: One minute you’re on stage with your closest friends, playing to a wideeyed crowd whose hearts are filling up with your words and whose hips are swaying to your tunes.

They applaud. They encore.

They love you.

The next minute you’re alone. You haven’t played a show like that in weeks, you haven’t seen your band mates and you haven’t touched your guitar.

That’s what it’s like to be in a band. You’re on top of the world for a night, then the next day you swear you’ve never known how to write a song. One week might feel like you’re making progress. You’re practicing consistently, you’re creating new material, you’re booking shows and scheduling recording sessions. You’re on top of everything.

And then the next week, you’ve been sucked into your “real life.” The one that pays the bills. The one with the job you’re only doing because it helps maintain your dream, or at least that’s what you remind

yourself. Then you realize all you’re doing is working at that job that was supposed to allow you to focus on your music. And you’re back to square one.

You feel like you’re at square one a lot. Maybe you drained your bank account because your van broke down on your tour that you didn’t quite plan with the most financial foresight. Or maybe you decided you hate a song that you’d been working on for weeks. Or maybe your tour dates keep falling through, or only 10 people showed up for your last show.

Learning how to maintain your composure in square one is key. Recognizing that every setback doesn’t really put you back to square one is what starts to set you apart from everyone else.

Besides, none of us really know what we’re doing. We try to play the right shows, book the right tours, hope our songs are the right songs. We try to stay true to ourselves and maintain creative integrity, while still providing entertainment. We try to make a living and we try to save money.

Being in a band that’s trying to make it in one way or another is full of highs, lulls, and lows.

Sarah Berentson, middle, with fellow Mama Dolls Jen Landis, left, and Austen Case.

It’s a waiting game that’s full of bursts of energy, moments of patience, and a lot of guessing.

What you don’t hear about is the post-tour blues, when you’ve been on the road for a month, playing a different city every night and calling your band your family. Then you come back home.

You are one part relieved that you can sleep in your own bed and not on the floor of a crazy man in Denver who offers you “man cakes” at 2 a.m. This, by the way, is after he accidentally spilled an ash tray on your sleeping spot and then just puts the tray on top of the spilled ashes and calls it good.

But you’re several parts sad that you’re back. Your band slips into their respective caves to recover, and you start to wonder if anything you felt on tour

was real. You start to forget that you love what you’re doing. You start to wonder if you should move on to something new.

Independent bands have to be their own glue. Their own motivators. Their own biggest fans. They have to believe. Because if they don’t, who will?

The good news is, it only takes one show to get you back on track. It only takes one show to make you remember that this is what you love. And maybe someday you won’t pursue it so fervently, but not today. Today you keep writing, and waiting, and trying to remember that there’s no better time than now to do what you want to do.

Sarah Berentson is a writer and musician based out of Spokane. She’s best known for her work in the bands Mama Doll and the Terrible Buttons.

While I’ve been a fan of author Neal Stephenson for years, I made the mistake of not reading his most famous novel, “Snow Crash,” until last spring.

Published in 1992, this cyberpunk novel is scarily prophetic in its predictions of the modern Internet, some of which (virtual reality, for instance) are only just coming true today.

It’s also a flat-out fun read, full of philosophy, mysticism, action and laugh-outloud humor.

LISTEN

Murder By Death has shown tremendous maturation since they formed in the early 2000s. Their latest, “Big Dark Love,” reveals the band exploring sounds beyond its bread-and-butter alternative country and indie folk. Even so, they know what works for them: Adam Turla’s baritone and Sarah Balliet’s cello grounds “Love” in Western gothic atmosphere.

A short walk over the Long Bridge

By Will and Kristi Harrison For SPR

I take a short walk over the long bridge to the small town where I come from and the people were smiling and they were singing, yeah they were saying, “It’s good to have you home again.”

Listening to his music, you immediately realize Josh Hedlund is years deep into a love affair that he’ll never outgrow. Even if he does outgrow her, she’ll always be in the back of his head, creeping into every lyric, constantly reminding him where his allegiances lie. And the lover, of course, is Sandpoint.

For those of us who’ve stumbled our way into this beautiful town, Hedlund’s songs ring like hymns on Sunday morning, but in a church that reveres Sandpoint itself.

Josh captures the joy of Sunday but with

lines that sound vaguely angry and anarchic.

Which is OK, because if you’re in a bar or a basement or a living room listening to Josh Hedlund, you’re probably a little angry and anarchic yourself.

For all that emotion, Josh is a quiet singer, gently buffered from his audience by his mic and his Mac, usually welcoming local collaborators to take the stage and sing along. It turns out that quiet voices pack the most power because listeners are forced to pay attention; when you see Josh Hedlund you’re not watching a spectacle from someone who’s dying to entertain you. You’re a priest in a confession booth and Josh is your parishioner. He’s trusting you with secrets that stick with you for days.

Some musicians entertain by giving you what you want. Josh Hedlund’s music gives you what you didn’t know you needed.

Experience Josh Hedlund’s music for yourself when he plays the Reader’s Live @ The Office show, 6 p.m. March 26 at 111 Cedar St., Suite 9. Space is limited, so come early to guarantee a spot!

WATCH

Who killed 11-year-old Danny Latimer? This “Twin Peaks”-style mystery sets up the superb British TV series “Broadchurch.” While the show is a compelling who-done-it, Sandpoint residents might be even more impressed by its spot-on portrayal of a small, close-knit town dealing with tragedy. Tight pacing and great performances make “Broadchurch” a must-see. Check it out on Netflix’s streaming service.

Photo by Theron Humphrey

w o N & Then compiled by

Ben Olson

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

Historical information provided and verified by Bonner County Museum staff and volunteers (special thanks to Olivia Morlean, Will Valentine, and Allen Robertson). If you have any scrapbooks or old photographs taken in Bonner County that you would like to see Then & Now’ed, please submit them to the Museum so they can digitize and return the photographs to you. The Museum is located at 611 S. Ella — (208) 263-2344.

The corner of First Avenue and Bridge Street, looking east. This was the site of the old Gem Theatre. The sign for the old bowling alley is the dark, rectangular sign to the left of the far right awning.

c.1920s

The same view today. The China Kitchen now occupies the storefront on the left, followed by Chocolate, and Headlines Salon. The Downtown Crossing (now out of business) was accessed from the doorway to the left of the salon.

2015

Corrections this week: In last week’s story about Hunger in Bonner County, the Friday free meal should have read “St. Joseph’s Catholic Church from 4-7pm.” Also, the LPO High School recital is taking place March 25th at the Gardenia Center instead of March 26th. Admission is still free!

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New listings from SandpointClassifieds.com.

Login to find more classified ads.

WANTED: To Rent an RV Responsible older couple want to rent RV for vacation in Montana August 4 10. Posted by janaedale on Mar 17.

RENTALS: 1 BR Apartment, Eco-Friendly Clean, nice, quiet 1BR apt on the 2nd floor. South facing windows. Kitchen includes microwave, stove and refrigerator.

Heat is hydronic in carpeted floor. Friendly neighbors. Park is right next door.

SPOT bus-stop is nearby. Non-smoking, no pets. $655/month. To learn more check out www.parkcottages.us. Posted by rkuhnel on Mar 17.

EMPLOYMENT: Greenhouse Worker Work part time or full time through June.

A fun way to earn some extra cash. Perfect for retirees or the stay at home mom or dad. The ideal candidate will have some gardening and customer service experience. Generous employee discounts are offered and the pay is competitive for unskilled labor in the greenhouse industry. Posted by dmoore on Mar 18.

EMPLOYMENT: Part-Time Nail Technician Seeking part-time nail technician to join us at our beautiful spa in Sandpoint. Interested? Please contact me via email with your experience and contact information. Posted by dauray123 on Mar 17.

I bet what happened was, they discovered fire and invented the wheel on the same day. Then, that night, they burned the wheel.

STUFF FOR SALE: Wood Stove Air tight wood heating stove in good shape. Posted by beckyanne on Mar 17.

STUFF FOR SALE: Eagles Concert Tickets I have 2 tickets for the Eagles concert in Spokane on May 29th. They don’t go on public sale until the 20th but card members got to choose early. They are in section 4, on the floor. Just want what I paid which was $200 each. Check around and you will see that that section is selling for quite a bit higher. Posted by selectappraisals on Mar 17.

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