2 / R / October 12, 2023
DEAR READERS,
The week in random review By Soncirey Mitchell Reader Staff
ghoul me once
Dedicated readers may remember the Sept. 21 “Junk Drawer,” which recounted my childhood penchant for talking to our living room ghost. That was only the first time we called in a spiritualist to exorcise a spirit from my parent’s home — the second time wasn’t my fault. My senior year of college, I returned home for spring break to discover a deeply terrifying baby carriage on my front porch. The thing was made of sturdy, rusting metal and housed a filthy mattress covered in Disney characters. Their eyes screamed, “Help me.” The carriage was a haunted tetanus infection on wheels, and I desperately wanted to cover it in salt, douse it in holy water and set it on fire — as is the standard practice when dealing with cursed objects. My dad wouldn’t let me. He’d brought the thing home, from the devil’s nursery no doubt, because he wanted to make it into a planter. I suggested deadly nightshade, witch hazel and wormwood would be appropriate plantings. The next day the dreams started. In them, my childhood cat, Kitkit, would paw at the front door asking to be let in. I couldn’t figure out why he wasn’t coming in his cat door — it was like he needed me to invite him inside. In the final dream, I went to open the door but froze when I saw the baby carriage sitting behind Kitkit. I looked down at his fluffy face and suddenly remembered that he’d died several weeks before. “You are not my cat,” I told him. Whatever it was, that made it angry. It frantically bashed itself against the door but failed to get in before I woke up. Suffice to say, I called our friendly, neighborhood spiritualist this time. She once again cleansed the house and my family of what she termed a “malignant entity.” My dad still refused to chuck the carriage because, “It’s good now that the ghost’s gone.”
spiritus sanctus
You may ask yourself, why is this Reader newbie persistently pestered by poltergeists? I don’t know. Maybe I just like spooky stuff, and spooky stuff likes me back. Either way, my first roommate in college would often make the sign of the cross when I told her my stories. She was a lovely Catholic girl who was concerned that I’d brought ghosts into the dorm along with the mini fridge. She was very nice about it, though.
Are you enjoying the changing of the seasons as much as I have lately? I have a couple of notes for you this week. First, don’t forget to attend the candidates’ forum sponsored by the Reader, KRFY 88.5 FM and Sandpoint Online at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 17 at Sandpoint Community Hall. Candidates have been invited from the following races: Sandpoint mayor, Sandpoint City Council and LPOSD trustee. If you can’t make it to the event, tune in on 88.5 FM or stream it on KRFY. org. See Pages 16-21 for our candidate questionnaire, which includes the abovementioned candidates plus those from the WBCSD race. Next, we’re gently ramping up our Halloween-themed editions, as you might have deduced from the cover. We’re interested in hearing about your ghost stories for an upcoming edition. Send them to Staff Writer Soncirey Mitchell at soncirey@sandpointreader. com for consideration. Finally, we ran out of room for an update ad on our fundraiser in this week’s edition, but I just wanted to say you have all been so kind and generous. We’ll catch you up on our status next week. Thanks!
– Ben Olson, publisher
READER 111 Cedar Street, Suite 9 Sandpoint, ID 83864 208-946-4368
sandpointreader.com Publisher: Ben Olson ben@sandpointreader.com Editorial: Zach Hagadone (Editor) zach@sandpointreader.com Soncirey Mitchell (Staff Writer) soncirey@sandpointreader.com Lyndsie Kiebert-Carey (emeritus) Cameron Rasmusson (emeritus) John Reuter (emeritus) Advertising: Kelsey Kizer kelsey@sandpointreader.com Contributing Artists: Ben Olson, Museum Silkeborg, Jane Fritz, Bill Borders Contributing Writers: Zach Hagadone, Ben Olson, Soncirey Mitchell, Lorraine H. Marie, Kelcie MoseleyMorris, Emily Erickson, Carrie Logan, Helen Newton Submit stories to: stories@sandpointreader.com Printed weekly at: Tribune Publishing Co. Lewiston, ID Subscription Price: $165 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 300 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: sandpointreader.com About the Cover
This week’s cover features a stock illustration of a vampiress, who is very much looking forward to Friday the 13th. October 12, 2023 / R / 3
NEWS
Final Downtown Waterfront design nearing completion
Jury reviews Stage 3 changes, plans to deliver last recommendations to council Oct. 18
By Zach Hagadone Reader Staff The calendar is ticking down to the culmination of the city of Sandpoint’s Downtown Waterfront Design Competition, which envisions a wide range of shortand long-term projects affecting everything from City Beach to Sand Creek, and First Avenue to the Granary District. Members of the competition jury came together both in person and electronically on Oct. 10 at City Hall to hear a presentation from the design team of GGLO-Bernardo Wills, which the City Council selected as the preferred team among three finalists in August. The team highlighted the changes they’d made to their design — referred to as “The Blue Necklace” — based on feedback received from both the jury and council. Those changes fell into 13 broad categories: land use recommendations, balancing ecology with human activity, diversity of housing, bicycle circulation, the “urban tributary,” streetscape hierarchy, year-round us, City Beach circulation, First Avenue Phase 3 downtown revitalization, bridge implementation, overall plan implementation, corrections to the previous draft plan and consultation with area tribes. The jury met following the Oct. 10 presentation and will deliver its final recommendations to the City Council at its regular Oct. 18 meeting at 5:30 p.m. in the Sandpoint City Hall Council Chambers, which will mark the conclusion of the competition that began in February. Among the many alterations of the plan that went before the jury Oct. 10 included the recommendation of an expanded historic district overlay zone from Sand Creek to the Granary District — the purpose being to widen protections for existing historic buildings as well as provide a framework for incorporating historic preservation concepts with new construction. “It’s not transforming the city, but evolving it to meet the growing needs of the city,” said 4 / R / October 12, 2023
Mark Sindell, of Boise-based GGLO. “How do we protect the existing buildings by having them in the zone?” A major element of that particular portion of the design is recommending a 55foot setback for new buildings on the east side of First Avenue with a 55-foot height limit. After 35 feet of height, new construction would have to include a 20-foot setback with the intention of keeping the downtown core from turning into a canyon of tall, unbroken facades. “[This] provides a significant envelope for development but isn’t out of step with existing buildings,” Sindell said, later adding, “The goal is to be contextually sensitive while setting up ease of future development and creating viewsheds.” At Sand Creek, the design introduced three more kayak launches at the proposed Cedar Street Terrace adjacent to the Cedar Street Bridge, Farmin’s Landing and near the envisioned site of the Carousel of Smiles on the east bank of the creek south of Bridge Street. Among the biggest changes to the plan came at City Beach. Among them, the team suggested putting in place berms on the windward side to help reduce the amount of sand that blows off the beach and into the park, as well as adding lawn and picnic areas. Five new pickleball courts would be added next to the tennis courts, though the Snack Shack would be removed and lifeguard facilities relocated to a new pavilion north of the boat launch. Also at City Beach, the design team reoriented the parking lot east-to-west with car parking to
the north and boat parking stalls in the south. The updated plan calls for 245 car stalls, which matches the current number, and 38 boat trailer parking spots, which is an increase of five from the present parking lot. “Admittedly there might be a little more paving with this than you have currently,” said Dell Hatch, with Spokane-based Bernardo Wills, but the team determined it would result in more efficient traffic circulation. Disabled parking would be located on the far eastern side of the lot with immediate access to the center of the park, as well as near the non-motorized ADA launch envisioned west of the marina at the southeast portion of the beach. Traffic would move into the parking lot via an immediate right after the rail overpass with direct access to a turnaround at the boat launch, which would include prepping and tie-down lanes to ease congestion as watercraft are put in and taken out of the water. Elsewhere in the design concept, the team recommended about 200 workforce housing units be constructed within a 10-minute walking radius of downtown, with locations identified at the current city parking lot and incorporated with an envisioned multi-use parking structure, as well as at the
corner of Church Street and Fifth Avenue at the current location of Bizarre Bazaar and another on Fifth Avenue at the America’s Best Value Inn site. Much discussion was given to a variety of lighting schemes throughout downtown, with the possibility of incorporating seasonal light shows at Sand Creek, as well as plantings of native vegetation from City Beach to First Avenue and along a reimagined “Oak Street Event Corridor” with an expanded Farmin Park at its core — what the designers call “the urban tributary.” Changes to downtown streets would include more dedicated and shared bike lanes, as well as a roundabout at Superior Street and First Avenue that would serve as a “welcome to Sandpoint” feature extending downtown farther to the south. Finally, the team offered a few alternatives for how to rebuild the Bridge Street bridge. One option would be to maintain the current bridge while a second is built alongside it (requiring about two and a half years and twice the cost), while another would be to take down the existing bridge and perform reconstruction work while access to the beach is maintained via temporary exits off the U.S. 95 bypass.
The team selected to create the final concept in the Sandpoint Downtown Waterfront Design Competition, presented new plans Oct. 10, including changes to City Beach. Courtesy image. A third option — and one that some jury members preferred — would be to realign the bridge so that it connects directly to the beach entrance from a new intersection on Church Street and First Avenue, though that plan would require building through current private property at the corner of Bridge Street and First. Don Stastny, a Portland, Ore.based architect and master planner with whom the city contracted to manage the competition, told the jury, “We’ve got a team that really takes comments and works them in such a way that they’re trying to clarify an overall vision for what this land could be. … “For the most part it’s workable,” he said, adding that though it’s “not the final answer in a lot of ways,” it’s a “tremendous plan to start working with.” Find the full GGLO-Bernardo Wills plan, in addition a video recording of the Oct. 10 jury presentation, survey results, schedule and more at sandpointidaho.gov/ stage2design.
NEWS
City accepting applications for 2023 City Beach goose hunt By Zach Hagadone Reader Staff The application period for permits to participate in the second annual city authorized Canada goose hunt at Sandpoint City Beach is open until 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15, with a drawing to be held Thursday, Oct. 19 at 5:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers (1123 Lake St.). City councilors approved the 2023 hunt to take place twice weekly for four weeks next month: Wednesday and Saturday, Nov. 1 and 4; Tuesday and Friday, Nov. 7 and 10; Wednesday and Saturday, Nov. 15 and 18; and Monday and Wednesday, Nov. 22. The inaugural City Beach goose hunt took place from mid-December 2022 to mid-January 2023 and resulted in the taking of one animal, which city officials attributed to an exceptionally hard cold snap that resulted in few
of the birds being present at the beach. The sole goose shot in the 2022-’23 hunt did not bear one of the leg bands indicating that it had been a return visitor to the beach. The hunt has been intended as one method of reducing the number of geese that gather at City Beach, which have long been considered a problem by the city due to the amount of feces they leave in their wake. Almost 200 of the birds were captured and euthanized under a U.S. Fish and Wildlife depredation permit in late June, spurring vocal opposition from those in the community who also opposed the hunt. Meanwhile, Sandpoint Police Chief Corey Coon told councilors in February that more than 100 people signed up to take part in the 2022-’23 hunt, but again the frigid temperatures kept many participants away from the beach. When the City Council approved the 2023 hunt for Novem-
ber, it was with the intention that it should take place during less inclement weather. Participating hunters will be selected in a blind drawing. According to the city’s guidelines, prospective hunters must be 21 years of age or older with proof of a valid Idaho hunting license, Federal Migratory Bird Stamp and Migratory Bird Permit at the time of application. Each applicant is allowed to list up to three additional hunters to join them in their blind, which will be assigned in three zones from north to south facing east toward the water. Completed applications must be submitted by the deadline and the applicant must be present at the time of the drawing on Oct. 19 to receive a permit. Additional hunters listed on the application do not need to be present at the drawing but must still provide all necessary documentation to authorities on the day of the hunt.
To find the application, rules and regulations for this year’s hunt, visit bit.ly/3ZPc22P.
A couple walks through Sandpoint City Beach surrounded by Canada Geese in 2020. Photo by Jane Fritz.
BOCC approves Providence subdivision By Soncirey Mitchell Reader Staff At a public hearing Oct. 2, Bonner County commissioners approved development of the Providence subdivision, which encompasses 116 residential lots on approximately 40 acres east of Kootenai. Residents of Sandpoint and the neighboring Seven Sisters subdivision resisted the new development, citing concerns over wetlands and drainage, increased traffic and the alleged potential to overtax area water, sewer and school districts. Per Bonner County’s land use regulations, Providence Road LLC submitted an application to the Army Corps of Engineers to determine whether or not the area’s wetlands fall under the Corps’ jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act. The recent Supreme Court Ruling Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency altered the scope of their jurisdiction over wetlands, making it unclear what approvals developers need from the Corps to commence construction. The Corps did not issue a statement by the Oct. 2 meeting.
Silt soils in the area have notoriously poor drainage, and public testimony alleged that the site currently functions as a repository for stormwater from the Seven Sisters subdivision. “If that is the case, that is actually a violation of the approved stormwater management plan,” said Dan Tadic of HMH engineering, on behalf of Providence Road, LLC. If those allegations are correct the subdivision will need to alter their drainage system to comply with existing code, regardless of the commissioners’ decision. Tadic and project representative Mike Hammack testified that the city of Sandpoint’s water service and the Kootenai Ponderay Sewer District have enough capacity to support the addition of 116 residences without taxing the systems. “[KPSD] is, I believe, developing a facility plan currently to upgrade their wastewater plant and they did receive a grant for that,” said Tadic, addressing concerns that the development would raise local taxes. “As Mike [Hammack] pointed out, this development will pay $1 million in new user facility
An overview of the Providence development north of Highway 200 and east of Kootenai. Image courtesy HMH Engineering. fees into the Kootenai Ponderay Sewer District system. That is independent of the actual cost of installing the infrastructure itself.” To accommodate the increased traffic, developers will also provide lighting and right- and left-hand turn lanes at the intersection of Providence Road and Highway 200. “We’re willing to do anything [the Idaho Transportation Department] wants done. So, I don’t
know what else we can do other than follow every one of these ordinances’ codes,” said Hammack. “When you guys put conditions on us, we have to follow those conditions if we want to get final plat. We don’t get final plat, we’ve spent all this time and money for nothing.” As of Oct. 2, there are no plans for the City of Kootenai to annex the development — a fact
that Hammack attributes to his previous personal difficulties with city officials. “The city [of Kootenai] wants to note that they are only open to the annexation prior to the development occurring — so, like, any of the improvements — because, obviously, if you’re going to annex into the city, you want it to be to city standards,” said Tessa Vogel, assistant land use planner representing Kootenai. The subdivision will meet Bonner County Code, but developers would need to update certain requirements — such as sidewalk width — to meet Kootenai’s standards. Commissioner Asia Williams voiced concerns that the area’s current infrastructure can’t support 116 new residences. “Do we have the school infrastructure to support that amount of development in that particular area? When you look at the current population of the schools, it’s not supporting that,” she said. “The valid concern from the
< see PROVIDENCE, Page 6 > October 12, 2023 / R / 5
NEWS
Panida board sees resignations after Oct. 5 meeting By Ben Olson Reader Staff When community members attended the Panida Theater board meeting Oct. 5, many didn’t realize they’d be watching a drama that was every bit as compelling as many films that have shown on the historic theater’s screen. Prior to taking up usual business, the room heard at length from Board Members Jimmy Matlosz and Michele Burkey about their desire to see a change in the leadership of the board, a role held by Jim Healey as chair until mid-November. With those in attendance sitting in silence, the board members began discussing differences some have expressed in Healey’s ability to lead the board, which saw the resignations of Gail Mico and Zabrielle Dillon the week prior to the Oct. 5 meeting. “What I’m concerned about is the way he treats people and the lack of goodwill on the board,” said Matlosz. Burkey acknowledged the meeting was “hard, awkward and unfortunate,” claiming she’s “never seen a group as dysfunctional as this board.” After lengthy discussion, a motion was made to remove Healey from the board altogether, with Burkey claiming she wouldn’t be comfortable continuing on the board with Healey still in place as chair. Board Member Gail Trotta urged her colleagues to resolve their differences, saying, “We are not always going to agree, but as a board we are adults. Why can’t we
sit down and resolve whatever grievances either in an executive board meeting or whatever? This shouldn’t be happening right now.” After hearing from some members of the community, including former-Board Member Tari Pardini, about their support of the chair, Healey was asked to make a statement prior to a roll call vote. “I don’t think anything I say will change anyone’s mind at this table,” Healey said. “What I will say is to you folks out there, whatever this vote is, don’t lose sight of the Panida. Continue to show your love for it, continue to volunteer, continue to donate and help the Panida in the ways it needs to be helped as it heads into its second century.” A roll call vote ended with members Trotta, Cline, Sean Behm and Dan Thompson voting against removing Healey and Matlosz, Burkey, Jeremiah Greenfield and Donna Guthrie voting for removal. Due to lack of a majority, the motion failed, prompting Matlosz and Burkey to tender their resignations and leave the meeting immediately. Later, Healey told the Reader, “You don’t have to love the people or enjoy being with them, but you have a common goal and you have to work through that. … [M]oving forward, we’ve got a solid group of people.” The Panida Board of Directors will hold its annual meeting Monday, Oct. 16 at 6 p.m. in the main theater (300 N. First Ave.), which will include board elections. All members of the public are invited to attend.
< PROVIDENCE, con’t Page 5 > community is they are then taking on the cost of the development through a failing infrastructure.” At a July 5 hearing, Chief Financial Operations Officer Brian Wallace gave neutral testimony on behalf of the Lake Pend Oreille School District. “As a district and an organization, we are not opposed to development,” he said, according to a transcript provided by Bonner County Senior Planner Swati Rastogi. “However, with that said, you know our district is near capacity at many of our buildings.” Wallace went on to explain that the development could challenge the district, but it falls on the taxpayers to fund school growth and the construction of new buildings. Before the vote, members of the public asked that Commissioner Steve Bradshaw recuse himself because, by his own admis6 / R / October 12, 2023
sion, he’s known Hammack for 34 years. Deputy Prosecutor Bill Wilson testified that the relationship did not constitute a conflict of interest. Commissioner Luke Omodt moved to approve the project on the condition that the developer widen the 25-foot easement off of Chewelah Loop to 60 feet to ensure emergency vehicles’ access to the subdivision. Both Omodt and Bradshaw determined that the development complies with Bonner County Revised Code; however, Williams stated that she believes it fails to meet five of the eight provided criteria, including adherence to the Bonner County Comprehensive Plan. “There’s nothing wrong with going back to the drawing board to say, ‘How can we resolve this and do a better job of it?’ That’s my recommendation,” she said. Omodt and Bradshaw approved the project, with Williams opposed.
Bits ’n’ Pieces From east, west and beyond
East, west or beyond, sooner or later events elsewhere may have a local impact. A recent sampling: In the past week, 75,000 health care workers at Kaiser Permanente have gone on strike. They seek better staffing ratios, working conditions, pay and benefits. According to Sen. Bernie Sanders, D-Vt., the strikers were “on the front lines during the pandemic,” and their struggle for better work conditions will result in better health care outcomes for patients. Sanders said Kaiser reported $2.1 billion in net income in the second quarter of 2023, and gave a former CEO a retirement package of $35 million. Two House Republicans have called the impeachment effort against President Joe Biden a “political stunt,” with Rep. Matt Gaetz commenting that it is not a “legitimate impeachment,” NBC reported. Speaker Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., was ousted in a 216-210 vote last week. Vying for the House speakership are Republican Reps. Jim Jordan of Ohio; Steve Scalise, of Louisiana, and McCarthy. Historian Heather C. Richardson pointed out that Scalise describes himself as being like KKK leader David Duke but “without the baggage,” and Jordan has refused to answer a subpoena about his part in attempting to overturn the 2020 presidential election. ABC noted that Republican conference rules would prohibit Donald Trump as speaker, which some have proposed, since he faces criminal charges. California will be requiring about 80% of cities to significantly cut water use by more than 50% by 2035, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. In investigating Trump’s dealings with classified information he stored at Mara-Lago, post-presidency, it was alleged by a visitor that Trump “cavalierly” shared “sensitive details” with visitors that could endanger the nation’s nuclear submarines, The New York Times reported. Details included “critical information” about the crafts’ tactical capacities, how many nuclear warheads they carried and how close they could get to their Russian counterparts while evading detection. After a court order in 2022, the FBI removed 100 documents containing national security secrets from Mar-a-Lago. This would not be Trump’s first indiscriminate dissemination of info: two Russian officials visiting Trump received classified intelligence, “according to people briefed on the matter,” The Times reported. Hearing that Trump claimed his Mar-
By Lorraine H. Marie Reader Columnist
a-Lago property is worth up to 100 times more than is indicated by New York’s Supreme Court records, a House Democrat has asked that it be taxed in accordance with Trump’s assessment of “closer to $1.5 billion,” Salon reported. Another $9 billion in student debt relief has been granted by the White House affecting 125,000 people, such as public service workers like teachers and firefighters, and people on permanent disability, The New York Times reported. A 51-year-old Iranian woman, jailed for her activism for women’s rights and democracy, has won the Nobel Peace Prize. U.S. politicians are pointing fingers, trying to lay blame on who in the U.S. can be faulted for the recent Hamas militants’ “unusually sophisticated” attacks on Israel, in the Gaza Strip. The Adalah Justice Project stated that Hamas leaders regard the violence as their response to lack of accountability for Israel’s 70 years of war crimes against Palestinians, including, CNN reported, deaths, desecration of mosques, attacks on women and Israel’s ongoing Gaza aggression. Numerous voices are urging both sides to address long-term issues; other political interests are siding with Israel. Medicare enrollment caution: According to Physicians for a National Healthcare Program, the federal government loses as much as $140 billion per year when they subsidize private Medicare Advantage plans. The researchers said seniors could save more than $1,800 in fees taken from their Social Security checks by avoiding Advantage plans, which are for-profit, as opposed to Medicare. Advantage plans were initially accepted in 2003 as a way for the government to save money, but there have been no savings. Rather, Advantage plans are incentivized to ration needed care and deny claims. Medicare has kept costs low by setting fixed prices with health care providers, according to The Lever. Social Security Works noted that once seniors are enrolled, it’s difficult to disentangle from Advantage plans, while some doctors and hospitals refuse to take Advantage patients. Pope Francis recently urged expediting the planet’s transition to renewable energy, before it’s too late. He called extreme weather the planet’s “cries of protest,” and urged thinking for the common good. Blast from the past: “Loyalty to a petrified opinion never yet broke a chain or freed a human soul.” — Mark Twain, American author (1835-1910)
NEWS
In quick reversal, Ninth Circuit will reconsider Idaho abortion case Broader panel will determine if ER physicians are protected from prosecution under state ban
By Kelcie Moseley-Morris Idaho Capital Sun The U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has agreed to reconsider an appeals case that will determine whether emergency room physicians in Idaho will be shielded from prosecution under the state’s abortion ban for providing stabilizing care. The order comes fewer than two weeks after a three-judge panel of the court granted an appeal from the Idaho Legislature to reverse a decision that exempted ER doctors from criminal penalties for providing an abortion as stabilizing care. That decision was made by U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill in August 2022, after the U.S. Department of Justice sued the state of Idaho, arguing that its near-total ban on abortions violates the federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act, or EMTALA. A medical system that accepts
Medicare funding is required to provide stabilizing care to patients who come to the emergency room regardless of their ability to pay, including pregnant patients. To stabilize, according to the law, means to provide medical treatment that ensures a person’s condition won’t deteriorate in a significant way if they are transferred to another facility. The initial complaint filed by the Department of Justice said Idaho’s abortion ban, which applies to any stage of pregnancy and contains an exception to save a pregnant patient’s life, put health providers in a position of risking criminal prosecution under the state law or loss of funding and other enforcement actions under EMTALA. Winmill, who was appointed by former-President Bill Clinton, agreed with that argument and issued an injunction to block the law in those scenarios while the case proceeds.
With representation from a separate law firm, which public records show has cost the Idaho Legislature about $375,000 since the case began, legislative leaders appealed Winmill’s decision to the Ninth Circuit. Out-of-state transfers may have been necessary under previous order The Ninth Circuit contains four courthouses in California, Oregon and Washington, and is made up of 15 judges appointed by Democratic presidents and 13 appointed by Republican presidents. It is the country’s largest appellate court, representing nine Western states and two U.S. territories. The three judges who reversed Winmill’s decision at the end of September were appointed by former-President Donald Trump. Those judges said recent actions by the Idaho Legislature and other court rulings invalidated
the initial arguments in the Justice Department’s complaint, and determined that the exception to prevent a pregnant person’s death was sufficient. Following the appellate court’s initial ruling, senior counsel for one of Idaho’s largest health care systems told States Newsroom via email that any patient who came to a St. Luke’s emergency room or labor and delivery unit with an emergency would receive an exam to determine whether they have an emergency medical condition and stabilized. But to avoid committing a crime under Idaho law, if an abortion was a recommended method of treatment, it would only be performed if, based on the physician’s good faith medical judgment, termination was necessary to prevent the death of the pregnant patient. If termination was instead necessary to protect the pregnant patient’s health, the patient would
potentially have to be transferred to an out-of-state hospital. With the injunction back in place, ER physicians in Idaho are again protected while the case is pending. The order, which was issued Oct. 10, allows an “en banc” consideration of the case, meaning 10 of the court’s 28 active judges will be randomly selected to hear the case again, in addition to the chief judge, who will preside over the hearings. It’s unclear when judges will be selected as members of the en banc case or when the next hearing will take place. This story was produced by Boise-based nonprofit news outlet the Idaho Capital Sun, which is part of the States Newsroom nationwide reporting project. For more information, visit idahocapitalsun.com.
Travers Park tree protest nears one week mark By Zach Hagadone Reader Staff While the Sandpoint City Council approved the final contracts for the James E. Russell Sports Center on Sept. 27, and construction crews erected fencing Oct. 11 to restrict access to the future site at Travers Park, a group of citizens continued an almost week-long vigil chained to one of 20 trees that will be removed to make way for the indoor tennis-and-pickleball facility. “We’re trying to save this tree — we’re calling it ‘Alice Willow,’” said Molly McCahon, who began the protest on Oct. 5. “Once the trees are gone and the fence is up, there’s no going back,” she told the Reader, seated at the base of the tree Oct. 11. McCahon’s protest drew numerous supporters, including some like residents Rebecca Holland and Pat Van Volkenberg, who joined her in chains. The trio sat together the afternoon of Oct. 11, surrounded by friends, media and members of the Travers family — for whom the park was named
when it opened in the mid-1980s — awaiting the arrival of Sandpoint police officers who they’d been told would ask them to leave or be trespassed. McCahon said she, Holland and Van Volkenberg did not intend to leave willingly, and so would opt to be trespassed. “We will allow them to do that easily and with a smile on our face,” she said. It was unclear as of press time whether any arrests took place. The tree protest came after months of mounting frustration by some who felt that the James E. Russell Sports Center — made possible by a $7.5 million private donation by the Russell family in the spring of 2022 — had been sited at Travers Park with inadequate public participation. “We have been weighing in since 2022,” McCahon said, later adding that, “Not one of them [city officials] have responded to any of my emails or concerns from Day 1 — completely ignored.” “I can’t even describe how insulted I feel as a resident of this town,” she said.
Both McCahon and Holland have contended that no public hearing was ever held on the selection of Travers Park for the location of the almost 40,000-square-foot sports center. Sandpoint Mayor Shelby Rognstad told the Reader in an email that following stakeholder meetings and a community meeting in July 2022, a total of six council meetings addressed the concept, all including public comment. In addition, the city ran a survey in October 2022, hosted a Travers skatepark expansion public meeting in April and a Travers Park open house in May. “At this point, the decision was made months ago, and we have a signed contract and people are showing up on the job site today,” he said in a phone interview. “It’s not like we didn’t hear concerns a year ago … but it wasn’t about the trees. It was the playground being moved.” Beyond that, he wrote in an email, “The difficult decision to locate this new facility necessarily involved balancing multiple priorities and values. Trees are one
of the many considerations. Also important, are impacts to existing user groups. … The chosen site had the least amount of impact to users, preserving all existing uses while accommodating improvements to skatepark, bike course and playground.” For the protesters, it’s about the playground and trees, but also the park’s ecology as a former landfill and its historic purpose as an outdoor sports facility, which sees heavy use by community members who value its open spaces — all adding up to Travers Park being an unsuitable location. “We are not against this building — just the location,” said Holland, who has been the most vocal and consistent critic of the sports center plan over the past year. She said the goal of the protest is to convince the city that it should “pause” the project and revisit it with public input on alternative locations for the facilities. “It’s never too late to do the right thing,” Holland said, who told the Reader she had collected more than 400 in-person signatures on a petition to reconsider
the Travers Park location and 2,000 more online. According to Rognstad, it’s possible “in theory” that the City Council could change its vote on the Travers Park site, “but I can’t even imagine what that would look like. … It would be a disaster.” “If the goal is to pause the project, call for an open house and a new council decision to reconsider siting, it would put the project off until spring,” he wrote. “Reconsideration would come at a tremendous cost. Halting a contract that is underway would add substantial penalties for the city.” Despite that, and no matter that the plan calls for planting 60 trees in place of the 20 being removed, McCahon and her fellow protesters pushed back against the entire process that has surrounded the sports center project. “This goes against every community value that Sandpoint has held dear for years,” McCahon said.
October 12, 2023 / R / 7
Open primaries will strengthen our political parties…
Bouquets: • I’d like to give a Bouquet to all the wonderful people who submit photos to our Photos of the Week page. My inbox is often a jumble filled with press releases, snarky criticism and endless suggestions for future stories. When I get photo submissions, however, I can take a break from all of that and check out what adventures our readers have embarked on. Often, it’s a photo of one of our readers smiling as they hold up a past edition of the Reader while traveling. Other times, I get photos from recent events, random funny poses, wild animals and cute kids doing the things that cute kids do. It’s my favorite part of scrolling through my 100+ emails every morning, so please keep it up — if not for your own good, then for my sanity and well-being. • All of us seem to have compartmentalised friends, meaning some are work colleagues, others are people you share history with while still others are friends you hang with because of hobbies or mutual interests. This Bouquet goes out to my adventure friends; the ones who join me and my partner Cadie on all of our adventures, whether outdoors or otherwise. You all know who you are, so I don’t need to list names, but I so appreciate having buddies to spend time with in the mountains. If you have adventure friends of your own and haven’t given them a high five lately, here’s your reminder. Life is better when you spend it with people you love. Barbs: • Count me in as one of the many people who are displeased with the way the City of Sandpoint has handled the Travers Park plan for the pickleball and tennis building. I’m fully in support of this building, but why doesn’t our city ever compromise anymore? Clearly there were other location options, but our leaders chose the one that requires a playground to be bulldozed and 20 healthy, mature trees — including one of my favorite willow trees in Sandpoint — to be removed. Compromise is a strength, not a weakness. Let’s learn to embrace it more. 8 / R / October 12, 2023
Dear editor, Here’s a hot take: The open primary initiative will actually strengthen and heal our political parties, not destroy them (regardless of what Scott Herndon and Dorothy Moon may say). Think about it for a minute. We’ve seen a shift in the past couple of decades toward more crystalized, more extreme positions in our party system. It’s been driven by many factors: media incentivized to cover controversy, a surge of unaccountable money enabled by Citizens United and politicians that need to distinguish themselves in increasingly ideological primaries. The thing is, parties really can be an important way for voters to come together and express their collective views and aspirations. Parties can be a force for good, even if they’re not currently living up to their potential. A top-four primary system won’t diminish parties and their importance in our lives, it’ll remove barriers and restrictions that corrupt, extremist factions within our parties have put up to try and empower themselves. It’ll blunt the impact of dark money and special interests that push primary races to the extremes. It’ll make it easier for smart, thoughtful, goodfaith voters to participate, and amplify voices of reason in our parties. What entrenched powers want us to believe is that voters are their parties, but they’re not — parties are their voters. If we empower voters, we’ll wind up with better parties. If Scott Herndon really cares about political parties as voices of the people, he should sign a petition. Hal Gates Sandpoint
WBCSD ZONE 3 needs to re-elect Troy Reinbold… Dear editor, People shouldn’t always listen to the loudest voices or the candidate with big money funding them. I recently attended a meet-and-greet for Troy Reinbold. Troy may not be the most “polished” candidate, but he is honest and wants the best for the children in the district. Troy clarified that he did vote to put the levy before the public, because it should’ve been the community’s decision, but he did not campaign for or against it during the very contentious pre- election period. He is adamant that the forensic audit must be completed and believes that the public deserves to know where the district money is being spent. He is resolute about the schools getting back to the basics of education and is determined to help figure out how to
get more high schoolers to graduate. He believes that we need to set higher standards for the kids, not lower standards. On a side note, I heard from someone who worked at one of the polling locations for the Recall Election, that she observed parents (yes, more than one) bringing their 18-year-old child in to vote who were actually unable to sign their own name. I was shocked! We need our kids to learn to read and write so they can become productive individuals in our little town! Troy is confident that there are a lot of people with great ideas on how to make things better and is looking forward to hearing from them and working with those committed to making our schools institutions that we can all be proud of. Please attend one of Troy’s town halls to meet him and ask questions to see for yourself that he is our best candidate for Zone 3 trustee. Diane Madoski Priest River
City needs to listen to the people and reconsider Travers Park plan… Dear editor: It is time the city of Sandpoint hears their residents and those of the surrounding area that the proposed indoor tennis and pickleball facility planned over the children’s play area of Travers Park should be located elsewhere. There are multiple reasons why this facility should be relocated. It isn’t just the 30-year-old trees that courageous Molly McCahon has chained herself to, even though that is a huge environmental component. After the highest global climate temperatures ever recorded this year it is irresponsible to remove anything that scientifically aids the environment. City Administrator Jennifer Stapleton says she will replace those beloved trees with 60 more — 60 saplings that will take another 30 years to grow and in whose shade I will not live long enough to sit. Monica Travers-Gunter, representing the Travers family for whom the park was named, also wants the proposed facility located somewhere else. She gave those reasons recently to Spokane’s television reporters. Stapleton stated this particular park was chosen because of its central location to multiple schools, senior centers and the YMCA — all the reasons it should remain as is. There are 3,749 kids at last count in the Lake Pend Oreille School District. They too need to be considered, since it is they who play there. This simply isn’t a good idea. It will not serve the majority but rather the minority who can pay to use a recreational facility. Travers Park is free
and I question the costs of maintaining the park vs. the cost of maintaining and heating a large permanent building, which undoubtedly will require full-time, year-round staffing. My greatest respect goes to those individuals who can admit to their errors and then do better. I’m hoping the city of Sandpoint is big enough to do just that. Kathleen Huntley Hope
W. Bonner voters beware of ‘untruths’… Dear editor, Be very careful who you vote for, patrons of WBCSD. There are so many untruths circulating. Alan Galloway has said so many untruths about his opponent in Zone 1. A cattle rancher for 50 years? He has never been active in our district before yet he suddenly knows all these fibs about Margy Hall.There is no doubt he was schooled in what to write in his announcement letter. We have known Margy as an honest hard-working school board member. If it were not for her input and knowledge these past months, heaven only knows our district would be in a worse mess now than it is. Galloway’s another one that will fix everything without having ever been involved in public education, as his children were all homeschooled. A dirty lie-filled campaign is exactly that: dirty. Margy will not dip to that level. Her campaign will be clean and honest. Vote for Margaret Hall as Zone 1 trustee on Nov. 7. Idaho is not the Idaho that most of us love. Extremists have slithered their way into our politics, schools, libraries and thought systems. They fabricate lies and continue to smear untruths throughout our area. Some of them do it under the guise of religion and prayer. It’s very upsetting. If we don’t stop them by voting them out, we never will see our great state be a great state again. The other two candidates that we should vote in are Carlyn Barton in Zone 5 and Elizabeth Glazier in Zone 3. Space does not allow more information at this time. Ernie Schoeffel Priest River
‘The Panida dust up: A board member’s perspective’… Dear editor, Off stage or on stage, your Panida provides drama! It’s understandable that some of those attending the October Panida Board meeting may have felt uncomfortable. At that meeting board members openly disagreed about leadership! Well, duh! Isn’t that what takes place in every organization? The difference is that
the Panida is your community theater and public transparency is mandatory. You just won’t get that with most 501(c)(3)s. Who wants to air disagreements in public? For better or worse, the Panida is obligated to let it all hang out. Although the word “fiduciary obligations” was kicked about, the disagreement was not about fund mismanagement, nor accusations of sexual misconduct or any of the really exciting stuff. The disagreement was truly around board personalities and leadership. Ultimately, when the vote was taken, four of eight members felt our board leader should remain on the board and four did not. Two members felt strongly enough about their disagreement to resign. Those are unfortunate optics. The fact is that every one of us on the present board wants to assure our patrons that we now look forward to a strong, cohesive board that guides our Panida into a positively bright future. Since our meeting two strong candidates have applied to be on the board. We encourage all who are interested to attend our annual meeting Monday, Oct. 16, at 6 p.m. to learn of the Panida’s financial and operational and production strength, including plans for the future. We know you will be pleased. We certainly welcome any of you to go to panida.org and to apply to be a board member and be part of a dedicated group that enjoys making a difference in our town — and where drama is usually confined to the stage! Foster W. Cline Sandpoint
‘Jeremy for Sandpoint’... Dear editor, We now have the opportunity to choose the people we want to represent us as residents of Sandpoint. Hopefully all who can will take the time to get to know the candidates and vote. I am supporting Jeremy Grimm. I have known Jeremy for almost 20 years and have no doubt or hesitation in giving him my support. He has all the qualifications necessary to lead Sandpoint for at least the next four years. Many of you in Sandpoint know me, and as a City Council candidate 10 years ago you gave me your support. You trusted my judgment then and I’m asking you to trust me again. Please vote for Jeremy Grimm, mayor of Sandpoint. Bill Litsinger Sandpoint
Starting Oct. 19 until after Election Day, the word limit for letters to the editor will be 200 words. Please send letters to: letters@sandpointreader.com.
PERSPECTIVES
Emily Articulated
A column by and about Millennials
Scotchmans flyover By Emily Erickson Reader Columnist I have always believed there is something magical on the knife’s edge between fear and fun, anxiety and elation. Moments spent suspended between the safety of what we know and the uncertainty of what we cannot are the moments in which I feel most alive — wherein I have the highest likelihood of learning and growth. It’s the feeling of traveling to a new country, staring at a public transit map in a foreign language, but knowing lines and dots are universal. It’s the feeling of starting a climbing route, knowing my feet will soon be too high on the rock to safely hit the bottom, but also that I’m capable of getting them to the top. It’s the feeling of staring up at a mountain peak, knowing I have everything within myself to reach it if only I choose to begin. And it was the feeling I got when I was invited to get in a little plane and fly over the wild and rugged mountains comprising the area I’m so lucky to call my backyard. I first visited the site of this flyover — the proposed Scotchman’s Peak Wilderness area — in my inaugural spring-turning-summer in North Idaho nearly seven years ago. I read that the area’s namesake, Scotchman’s Peak, was a “bucket list” hike, reaching some of the highest elevation profiles around, with unparalleled views of the Cabinet Mountains and Lake Pend Oreille. I decided I’d attempt it as soon as the snow melted off the low country around me. On the morning of the hike, I left Sandpoint, driving out on Highway 200 with a gently rising sun illuminating the surface of the lake. I was in such a stage of
Emily Erickson. newness to North Idaho that the curving bridge outside of Hope above the purple-and-gold glassy water still made my heart flutter into my stomach. Continuing the winding drive toward my destination, paved roads gave way to dirt, and eventually to the rock and hole-pocked access that ended at the trailhead. I’d arrived. I swung on my pack, stuffed with all the essentials for a shoulder-season hike, and began to climb. Thick trees lined the steadily inclining trail, and I watched the camelback hump of the adjacent hill before me shrink into a pine-speckled mound below. I shouted into the quietness between heavy breaths, alerting wildlife to my presence, while double and triple checking that my bear spray was at hand. I was walking the edge between fear and fun, between being prepared and being alone in the wilderness, all the way until the dirt and rock of the trail opened up into the snow and scree of the mountain’s top. Wind whipped my smiling, triumphant face as I picked my way a careful step at a time to the peak’s highest point, from which I basked in the panoramic views of the stunningly rugged place to which I’d just moved. Since that first ascent, I’ve visited Scotchman’s Peak and
its surrounding mountains more times than I can count — in every season and in various modes of traverse. I’ve run from bottom to top and from peak to peak, I’ve camped and hiked and bushwhacked, and learned its “ins and outs” to the point of near-comfortable familiarity. But, from the inside of a six-seater plane on a crisp October morning nearly seven years after my first visit, all of that familiarity and comfort was sharpened into clarity and awareness. From my seat in the sky, I watched the wind paint rippling patterns on Lake Pend Oreille and witnessed the curves of the rivers and creeks and the way they perfectly matched the valleys they helped carve. I traced the sharp spines of the surrounding mountains, piecing together the collection of my experiences with each individual peak into a cohesive map — every range and valley clicking into context with one another in my mind. And I was reconnected to the part of myself that saw this area for the first time; reintroduced to that cocktail of giddiness and humility, of wonder and wildness that comes from big experiences in beautiful places. Whether from a plane in the sky or the dirt of a path, it’s being in places like the proposed Scotchman’s Peak Wilderness Area that alerts us to our limitations, while simultaneously inviting us to push them. They’re places of solitude, but also of collectiveness with the animals and land, and the people dedicated to stewarding it all. And they’re the kind of places for which I have boundless, wild gratitude, and a deep-seated knowing that they can never be replaced. So, as the world around us
continues to shift, and as our population sprawls farther out into the edges of solitude, it’s in these places that we can return to the unchanged; rediscover the parts of ourselves that need to be among the untamed — if only we decide to protect them. Emily Erickson is a writer and business owner with an affinity for black coffee and playing in the mountains. Connect with her online at www.bigbluehat.studio.
Retroactive
By BO
October 12, 2023 / R / 9
PERSPECTIVES
‘The biggest mistake I ever made’ By Carrie Logan Reader Contributor I regret my decision as mayor of Sandpoint to create a new city position: city administrator. If I had it to do it again, I would not go down that path. My reasons? The position has not achieved what was envisioned. It was supposed to be a supportive one to department heads — not a replacement for them. The position was not supposed to take control of hiring and firing city employees. The position was supposed to carry out the policies and direction of the council — not inform the council based on what the city administrator wanted. The position was supposed to save the city money — not hire endless consultants to do the work of department heads. Speaking of consultants, do we really need a dog park master plan or to hire a consultant to tell Sandpoint what our character is? I don’t think so. These master plans are not law and do not require implementation by the city; they are just recommendations. So why do I offer my mea culpa now? I think the November city elections are pivotal in the direction our city goes. Too many assume everything the administration does or proposes is in the best interest of our town. With the exception of the latest “Curve” conversation, there has been little to no pushback from council. Rarely any questions. Rarely discussion about options. Almost never is an item on the agenda proposed by a council member. The public perceives that council is a rubber stamp. Some areas of special concern: the council’s lack of action regarding the high turnover rate in the city; the lack of council participation in creation of the budget and knowledge of the same; the absence of citizen advisory groups, which have shouldered so much work for the city in the past: the
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Carrie Logan served on Sandpoint City Council from 2008-2014 and as mayor from 2014-2016. Courtesy photo. Tree Committee shepherding the Neighborwoods program, the Ped-Bike Advisory Committee establishing routes for safe travel and chiming in on safe and inviting pedestrian and bike access, the Administrative and Public Works committees, to name a few. What better way to involve and be in contact with citizens? Active committees are an asset, not a hindrance. All of this bemoaning brings me to my recommendations for council. I know what it takes to be mayor, and Jeremy Grimm has those qualities and abilities. I know what it takes to be a good council member, and Deb Ruehle, Kyle Schreiber and Pam Duquette has those qualities and abilities. These are the folks I am voting for. I hope you will, too. Carrie Logan was elected to two terms on the Sandpoint City Council (2008-2014) and served as mayor from 2014-2016. She also previously served five years on the Sandpoint Planning and Zoning Commission.
PERSPECTIVES
Travers Park: A proud history and community achievement By Helen Newton Reader Contributor In 1944, Cecil Ereman purchased five acres on West Pine Street from A.C. Eidam, and from that site operated a private garbage collection service for subscribers in the city limits. In 1966, the city opened a site on Baldy and contracted with Ereman. In 1974’75, Ereman retired and sold the five acres on Pine Street to the city and the city hoped to turn the site into a sports park. Planning the park took a number of years. On Oct. 3, 1980, the City Council voted to name the facility Travers Park. Frank Travers had died earlier in the year and was involved in supporting youth sports in the community. Some of his family members still live here. In 1981, Mayor Sally Cupan proposed that the city expand the five acres to 15 by trading 28 acres of timber land on Baldy for 10 acres adjacent to Travers Park owned by Louisiana-Pacific. She proposed using the trade as the city’s match for a $180,000 grant from the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation. It took negotiating and time, but in March 1984 the trade was consummated. Meanwhile, in September 1982, a sailboat tragedy occurred on the lake, taking the lives of five of six passengers. Family and friends of three of the victims created a memorial fund through Idaho First National Bank to raise money to plant trees in the proposed Travers Park. They had faith that the park would come to fruition and they wanted their family members to have a living and lasting memorial in their home town. Those trees still stand tall and healthy. Travers Park was built by the community of Sandpoint. Work began in earnest on the site that summer of 1984. The community really pitched in. Frank Linscott donated topsoil to cover the playing fields. Bonner County donated heavy equipment and crews donated their time to level the fields. Ivan Lippi and Harry Hartung were in
the early stages of developing the Mountain Meadows subdivision. They donated $8,000 worth of heavy equipment and their man hours to work on the site. Nearly every business in town donated materials or money toward the project. The site still lay outside the city limits, so, on Dec. 17, 1985, the city annexed the property and it became a jewel among our many beautiful parks. On March 15, 1984, the local paper wrote: “[T]he only question that remains is, how will it be maintained?” The answer, according to the paper, was simple: “User fees.” Thus it became so for all organized sports events, from youth to adult, and for all use by the school district. The burden of maintenance and upkeep does not fall wholly on the taxpayers’ shoulders. On July 3, 1986, the local paper carried a picture of Mayor Marian Ebbett cutting the ribbon to the park, accompanied by Parks Director Maurice “Bub” Dunn and City Council members Joe Venishnick, Teresa Deshon and Ray Miller. It was a proud moment! Here we are, nearly 40 years later, still proud of this community achievement. In some cases, three generations of families have participated in a variety of sports there or played on the playground equipment or among the mini-urban forest. Why mess with perfection? We need that open space for rest and relaxation and enjoyment. Let more generations enjoy Travers Park unobstructed. Buildings can be built anywhere and the people playing sports inside them aren’t there to enjoy nature. They come, they park, they play, they leave at all of the various gyms and venues throughout the community. Put the James E. Russell Sports Center — a generous gift indeed — among other buildings, but not in Travers Park. Helen Newton served as Sandpoint city clerk for 24 years and was on the Sandpoint City Council for four years.
October 12, 2023 / R / 11
Mad about Science:
Brought to you by:
bog bodies By Soncirey Mitchell Reader Columnist This subject isn’t for the squeamish, dear reader. Proceed with caution. Plant-lovers will recognize peat as the light soilless medium sold at garden stores and used to add acidity to soil, manage moisture or start seeds. Others may know peat as the centuries old, carbon-inefficient fuel source sometimes used to heat houses, cook and even generate small amounts of electricity. The most fantastic and bizarre thing about peat, however, is its ability to perfectly preserve dead bodies under the right conditions. Peat is a buildup of partially decomposed plant matter — mostly sphagnum moss — found in bogs around the world. Throughout northwestern Europe, it’s not uncommon to uncover mummified corpses, often called “bog bodies,” while harvesting the peat for the aforementioned reasons. The best preserved specimens still have their hair, skin and clothing despite many of them being more than 2,000 years old. Very particular circumstances must align to achieve this level of preservation. The best bogs receive moisture exclusively from precipitation, rather than groundwater, which allows them to trap the decaying plant matter in an acidic, nutrient-poor and mostly oxygen-free — or anaerobic — environment. In this harsh environment, microorganisms like bacteria that require oxygen can’t properly decompose the bodies. The acidic, watery bog eventually pickles the corpses. If that weren’t enough food for thought, the sphagnum produces sugars that act as tanning agents, turning the skin and muscle into leather. They also bind calcium to nitrogen, thereby drawing it out of the bones. The resulting decalcified
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bones take on a rubbery consistency. If you’ve ever soaked an egg in vinegar until the eggshell dissolves, you’ve already seen this process in action. In some bodies, the bones are practically nonexistent. The most famous bog bodies have rubbery or missing bones that leave them looking shrunken and deflated. In contrast, bodies found in calcium and nutrient-rich bogs fed by groundwater do not produce the anaerobic environment needed to preserve soft tissue. In these bogs, only the skeletons remain. The Tollund Man, a body discovered in Denmark in 1950, was so well preserved that police mistook him for a recent murder victim. Through modern carbon-dating techniques, archaeologists have recently concluded that the Tollund Man died anywhere from 405-380 B.C.E. at the approximate age of 40. Like many bog bodies, he would have lived during the pre-Roman Iron Age. Analysis of the Tollund Man’s stomach contents revealed a last meal of hulled barley, flax, false flax and two types of knotweed. He was also infected with several kinds of intestinal parasites — including tapeworms — which he would have picked up from contaminated food or water. The Museum of Silkeborg in Denmark displays the Tollund Man’s head alongside a reproduction of his body as it looked before scientists allowed it to dry out. To preserve his head, they had to replace the bog water that had kept his cell’s hydrated for thousands of years. First they saturated the head in alcohol, then toluol — a common ingredient in varnishes and paint-thinners — then liquid paraffin wax and finally bees’ wax. The British Museum preserved the Lindow Man, another bog body, by immersing him in polyethylene glycol to prevent him from shrinking. They then
swaddled the body in plastic wrap like a leftover sandwich, froze and then freeze dried him. It’s unclear how many bog bodies have been exhumed over the years. Personal written accounts, police reports and newspaper articles are the only evidence of some older finds, as the bodies have since been buried in local cemeteries, lost or returned to their bogs. These accounts put the total number of discovered bodies at nearly 2,000 — though the actual statistic is likely far lower. The bodies that did make it into the hands of scientists mostly date from the Late Nordic Bronze Age from 1100-500 B.C.E. to the Pre-Roman Iron Age from 500-1 C.E. Archaeologists and anthropologists have long puzzled over why these bodies ended up in the peat. The Lindow Man, Tollund Man and many more met exceedingly violent ends and experts agree that they were intentionally placed into the bogs after their murders. However, the purpose and extent of the violence is still debated. The popular view among scientists and laymen is that the bog bodies were victims of human sacrifice. This hypothesis stems from the incredible number of wounds — made by a variety of weapons — found on many of the bodies. The degree of overkill suggests that their deaths were ritualistic or in some way symbolic. This hypothesis remains prominent, although recent CTscans revealed that some of these wounds were actually caused by diggers harvesting peat or the weight of the bog compressing the bodies, not by ancient hands. There are many competing hypotheses as to why the victims were killed, and we can’t justifiably apply one single idea to every death. The individuals may be executed criminals or possibly scapegoat figures. In the latter hypothesis,
The Tollund Man bog body. Photo courtesy Museum Silkeborg.
the victims symbolically embodied their community’s guilt. By sacrificing the individual, the surviving members freed themselves from any past transgressions. Proponents of this idea believe that the sacrifices were chosen because of their visible disabilities, like the Kayhausen Boy, who had an infected hip socket and therefore had difficulty walking. Critics caution that this hypothesis could be anachronistic and reflect modern ideas of eugenics more than the actual beliefs of ancient people. An alternative hypothesis agrees that the individ-
uals were chosen because of their physical differences, but instead suggests that disabilities were considered evidence that an individual was marked by the gods as a worthy sacrifice. For now, the exact nature of Europe’s bog bodies remains a mystery. Stay curious (and out of any peat bogs), 7B. Brenden Bobby will be back next week when he returns from his much deserved mini-staycation.
Random Corner Don’t know much about water • A single-use plastic bottle is estimated to take about 450 years to decompose. • Americans buy almost 15 billion gallons of bottled water per year. Only about 39% of polyethylene terephthalate plastic water bottles are recycled in the U.S. The rest end up in a landfill or as pollution. • Though the bottles often use images of pristine lakes, waterfalls and snow-capped mountains, about 64% of bottled water is just tap water in a bottle, according to Food and Water Watch. • Experts estimate the rate at which plastic water bottles reach our oceans is expected to increase to two garbage trucks per minute by 2030 and four garbage trucks per minute by 2050. This means in 2050 there could be more plastic than fish in the world’s oceans. • Plastic water bottles often contain toxic chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) when they become
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old, damaged or exposed to high temperatures. • Research shows that having a reusable water bottle will encourage you to drink more water throughout the day. • While they often seem expensive at first, reusable water bottles end up saving money in the long run because reusable bottles are more durable than their single-use plastic counterparts. • There is an estimated 75 million to 199 million tons of plastic waste currently in our oceans. More than 5 trillion pieces of plastic debris are in the ocean. Of that total, about 269,000 tons float on the surface while more than 4 billion plastic microfibers per square kilometer litter the deep sea. • In 2010, environmentalist David de Rothschild sailed from San Francisco to Sydney, Australia on a boat made from 12,500 plastic bottles and cashew-nut glue.
COMMUNITY
SASi receives grant to plan for the future
JTML Foundation grant will benefit fundraising position at Senior Center
By Ben Olson Reader Staff The Sandpoint Senior Center was a little brighter this week, as it received the first installment of a substantial grant that aims to help build development capacity at Sandpoint Area Seniors, Inc. The JTMF Foundation awarded SASi with $187,000 over three years, with the first installment already having been received by the organization, board members told the Reader. Formed from the proceeds of the sale of Consumer Cellular in 2020, JTMF Foundation has a stated mission to help older adults by focusing on bolstering organizations in the Pacific Northwest. The grant will help SASi finance a position that will focus on fundraising, grant writing and development. “We’ve already begun actively recruiting for that position,” said Board Member Weslie Kary. But, as Kary pointed out, the grant does not mean that SASi can rest on its fundraising laurels, since the grant will not cover any operating expenses. “I don’t want people to think we got this great grant and we don’t need our regular grants, because we do,” she said. “About 25% of our revenue comes from
grants from organizations like CAL, Innovia and the United Way, and we continue to rely on that.” While those grants are crucial to maintaining service levels, board members acknowledged their discomfort with relying on endowments that aren’t often repeated year after year by particular organizations, as well as awards that are project-focused and don’t target operating expenses. With SASi approaching an important milestone next year, Board Vice-President Loris Michael said this is the perfect time to reach out more to the public and let the community know about the varied services and amenities the Sandpoint Senior Center offers, as well as its constant need for support to help improving the lives of the elderly population. “Next year will be our 50th anniversary,” Michael told the Reader. “When I first joined the board, we were almost in the red every month. It can become very scary. We aren’t just funding meals. The fact that we’re here is so important so that people aren’t feeling isolated.” Aside from providing an important social outlet for seniors to connect with one another over games like bridge, pinochle and bingo — as well as senior-orient-
ed exercise classes — SASi regularly provides home-delivered meals to thousands in the county, as well as food served inside their facility each day. The organization served and delivered an estimated 27,000 meals in 2022, and are averaging about 2,250 meals per month in 2023. “Last month we served 2,200 meals,” Kary said. “We currently have a waiting list for home-delivered meals.” While the meals are one of SASi’s biggest services to the community, it’s also one of the reasons the organization struggles to stay above water. While SASi receives funding for meals from the Area Agency on Aging, Bonner County and state Medicaid, the reimbursement falls significantly short of the actual costs to prepare and deliver meals. “It currently costs us almost $13 per meal, but the average reimbursement is running at about $7.50 per meal,” Kary said. “They also tell us how many we can sub-
sidize, and they cut our allocation this year when we were experiencing increased demand.” Kary and Michael underscored that they are actively recruiting for the fundraising position. “We want to use this grant to help tell our story,” Kary said. “We’re collecting testimonials and will use that to feed into our 50th anniversary promotions coming up.”
Weslie Kary, back row far right, and Loris Michael, front row far right, pose with kitchen and meal delivery staff at the Sandpoint Senior Center. Photo by Ben Olson.
Those interested in the development officer position at SASi are encouraged to email board@ sandpointareaseniors.org.
October 12, 2023 / R / 13
COMMUNITY Bonner County Democrats plan final community cleanup of the year By Reader Staff
The Bonner County Democrats announced their third and final cleanup project of the year, returning Saturday, Oct. 14 to the one-mile stretch of Highway 95 in Sagle that the organization has sponsored for 16 years. Bonner County Democrats Chair Linda Larson noted the group’s record of maintenance and community action on this section of highway. “We are happy to do our part to keep Bonner County clean. Public lands and the environment mean a lot to us, and this is one way we can put our values into action,” Larson stated in a news release. The Oct. 14 cleanup is the last of a series of cleanup efforts the group has sponsored this year, including a July cleanup and barbecue at Sandpoint City Beach, where volunteers spent the morning removing plastic and debris from fireworks from the sand. “It was a very successful event and it was rewarding to have our group make
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such a positive impact and be visible in the community,” stated volunteer Makayla Sundquist of the July beach cleanup. The group has also hosted a speaker series that brought local leaders and community members together to learn about important work and local issues. The organization has volunteered and fundraised for a variety of local causes, both political and apolitical, such as sponsoring an annual $500 scholarship for Bonner County high school graduates. The upcoming cleanup will be the last planned community cleanup event of the year for the group, and leaders are hopeful that the turnout will continue to be strong. The public is invited to join the cleanup effort. For more info, visit bonnercountydemocrats.org. “We have seen a huge increase in the level of engagement in the past two years and expect that to continue,” Larson stated. “We share a love for Bonner County and Idaho values like family, friendship and hard work.”
COMMUNITY Fosters, adopters and volunteers needed at Better Together Animal Alliance By Reader Staff As the area’s leading animal welfare organization nears capacity with limited staff, it is putting out the call for additional volunteers, as well as those willing to foster or adopt animals. Better Together Animal Alliance reported that its canine wards are nearing full capacity and, with limited staffing and steady animal intakes, the shelter is facing what it called an “unprecedented challenge” in providing care and shelter to pets in need. To address that challenge, BTAA is issuing a plea for volunteers in both the canine and feline areas to assist with daily tasks like cleaning kennels and feeding animals. In addition, the organization is seeking foster families to open their homes to dogs who are struggling in the shelter environment. BTAA provides everything needed, including dog food, leash, collar, toys and a bed. “Fostering provides a temporary refuge for these animals, giving them a chance to thrive while creating much-needed space in the shelter,”
stated BTAA Executive Director Mandy Evans in a news release. To help animals find homes faster and create space in the animal care center, BTAA is also waiving adoption fees on all adult pets as part of the BISSELL Pet Foundation Empty the Shelters event, which runs through Sunday, Oct. 15. Those interested in volunteering or fostering an animal are encouraged to contact BTAA’s animal care center in Ponderay at 208-265-7297. BTAA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Ponderay and serving Bonner, Boundary and Kootenai counties. BTAA assists approximately 2,400 stray or surrendered animals every year and more than 8,000 pets through its various programs. “By coming together, the community can ensure that these pets receive the care and love they need while also helping Better Together Animal Alliance alleviate the strain on their resources,” the organization stated. “Your support can truly make a world of difference to these four-legged companions in need.” Learn more at bettertogetheranimalalliance.org.
FSPW hosts final trail project day of the year By Reader Staff The Friends of the Scotchman Peaks Wilderness are hosting their final trail project day of 2023 with a trek up Goat Mountain on Friday, Oct. 13. Participants are invited to meet at the Clark Fork Library parking lot (601 Main St.) at 8 a.m. and travel as a team down Lightning Creek Road to the trailhead. Trail work will wrap up at approximately 3 p.m. Organizers ask that attendees wear sturdy boots; carry lots of water; pack lunch and lots of snacks; dress in long pants, long shirts and hats; wear sunblock; and bring their own work gloves. Everything else needed to conduct the trail work will be provided by FSPW. For more info, contact Brad Smith at bsmith@idahoconservation.org. To register, go to scotchmanpeaks.org/ event/trail-project-day-goat-mountain-2-the-end-of-the-season.
October 12, 2023 / R / 15
ELECTION
CANDIDATE QUESTIONNAIRE 2023 Compiled by Zach Hagadone, Soncirey Mitchell and Ben Olson
Publisher’s note: Before each election, the Sandpoint Reader reaches out to candidates to ask questions about how they would represent the constituents in the offices they seek. Below are questions and answers for the office of Sandpoint mayor, Sandpoint City Council, Lake Pend Oreille School District No. 84 trustees and West
Bonner County School District No. 83 trustees races. All candidates who responded to our questions have been included below, with some answers edited lightly for length. The Reader, KRFY 88.5 FM Panhandle Community Radio and SandpointOnline.com will host a forum Tuesday, Oct. 17 at 5:30
p.m. at the Sandpoint Community Hall (204 S. First Ave.), featuring candidates for Sandpoint city offices and the Lake Pend Oreille School District Board of Trustees. The forum is free to attend and open to all. Each candidate will be given time for an opening statement, which will be followed by a
1. Why are you running for mayor?
2. What would be your top three priorities if elected?
question-and-answer period. Moderators will read questions aloud submitted via notecard at the forum. Candidates will give closing statements before the end of the forum at 7:30 p.m. For those unable to attend, KRFY will stream the event live on KRFY.org and will also air it
on 88.5 FM. Those wishing to submit questions for candidates but will not be able to attend the forum are invited to send their questions in advance to publisher Ben Olson at ben@ sandpointreader.com with the word FORUM in the subject line.
Sandpoint Mayor
3. What do you see as the No. 1 challenge facing Sandpoint, and how do you propose to address it? 4. It’s no secret that many people in the community feel City Hall is disconnected from what actually affects residents and have doubts about the equitable stewardship of their town on a number of fronts. If elected, how will you speak to these concerns and chart a path forward that a majority of citizens feel is in their best interests?
Jeremy Grimm
Age: 50 Birthplace and residence: Northampton, Mass./Sandpoint How many years lived in Bonner Co.: 16.5 Past/current government service (if applicable): vice chairman, Idaho Economic Advisory Council (August 2021-present); member, Idaho Governor’s Workforce Development Task Force (February 2017June 2017); commissioner, Sandpoint Urban Renewal Agency (June 2012-May 2017); Bonner County Airport Advisory Board member (2014-2015); Planners Legislative Technical Analysis Team, Association of Idaho Cities (August 2008-January 2015); Planning and Community Development director, city of Sandpoint (April 2007-January 2015); planning director, city of Buffalo, Wyo. (June 2004-April 2007) Profession: Land Use Planner, Owner Whiskey Rock Planning + Consulting Education: M.A., community planning 16 / R / October 12, 2023
and development, Muskie School of Public Service, Portland, Maine; B.A., geomorphology, University of Denver, Denver; The Williston Northampton School, Easthampton, Mass.; Eaglebrook School, Deerfield, Mass. Contact info: jeremy@grimm4mayor.com 1. The truth is I don’t “want” to be mayor in the sense of desiring a status or position. I am running for this position because I am concerned about the direction of the city, and I deeply care about this community and the residents that make it an amazing place to live and raise our families. I believe that I have the proven skills, leadership qualities and understanding of city workings to be an effective leader to guide our town with financial responsibility to ensure a strong future for our community. 2. a. Get back to basics and ensure that we take care of our existing infrastructure before embarking on new projects. We need to pause nonessential projects and studies and begin funding the backlog of deferred or ignored maintenance. b. Engage with neighborhoods, listen to concerns, and discuss opportunities and solutions. Prioritize residents over tourists. Focus our resources promoting quality
and sustainable housing for the residents of our community. c. Review the administrative and organizational structure of City Hall and determine what changes can be made to reduce turnover, enhance levels of service and opportunity for improved public engagement.
3. Lack of attention and prioritization of infrastructure needs. I realize that providing water, sewer, decent roads and related services is not a sexy platform upon which to run for mayor. This sort of “meat-and-potatoes” work certainly is not resume-building for city staff and lacks the promotional fluff that catches headlines. It is however the foundation that our community depends on. I will address our infrastructure needs by cutting “cotton-candy” projects like the Downtown Redesign effort from the budget and redirecting all available revenue toward the backlog of street maintenance and related essential service needs.
4. Residents and business owners should not only be allowed but encouraged to share their desires and concerns with the city. As a father of two teenagers in a busy household, I understand
the importance and challenges of authentic communication and the need for respectful dialogue. On a community level, understanding one another’s values, hopes and concerns is the foundation of effective communication and a pillar of excellent leadership. To better engage residents, I would personally meet quarterly with neighborhood groups to hear and understand neighborhood-specific concerns and be a liaison between the residents and those who work for them.
Kate McAlister
Age: 64 Birthplace and residence: raised in the Boise Valley, lived in Sandpoint for 30 years How many years lived in Bonner Co.: See above
Past/current government service (if applicable): current Sandpoint City Council president Profession: president/CEO Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce Education: Boston College, Carroll School of Business — Corporate Social Responsibility, various courses from University of Utah, Whitworth University, Idaho State University Contact info: kateforsandpoint@gmail. com, katemcalister.com 1. 9,417. This is Sandpoint’s approximate population. We’ve experienced huge growth, and while it brings benefits it poses serious challenges. I will help our community meet those challenges and not become a haven for wild, incongruent development. I believe in responsible, thoughtful development. I believe running for a nonpartisan position is a privilege — the privilege of representing all community members. We are a great community and I will do everything to keep us great. It starts, and ends, with fairness to all our citizens. We still have a strong-mayor form of government and I will be a strong mayor. 2. a. Infrastructure improvements: Drinkable water — city recently purchased backup
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< ELECTION, con’t from Page 16 > generators for the water treatment plant. Flushable toilets — $2.7 million budgeted for treatment plant reconstruction. Initial phase to start next year. Drivable streets — increased bed tax, applying to visitors only, which increased streets budget from $250,000 to $1 million per year. Over $2 million in street projects will be completed. b. Citizen involvement: Involve citizens from the beginning of projects. Institute monthly topic-specific community conversations along with reinstituting citizen committees, as warranted. c. Workforce housing: Continue exploring options, including a Housing Authority, and opportunities for the needed workforce housing in our area. 3. How to balance the needs of the residents who live here with the rapid growth and development pressures changing Sandpoint. The issue can be addressed by engaging citizens in authentic planning and educating efforts, then making decisions based on what is in the best interest of residents, while continuing to have open houses, workshops and surveys. Citizens required the council and mayor to be data-driven and we have adhered to this request, requiring solid data and reports from our educated and knowledgeable staff, as well as those with years of experience and expertise in specific topics. 4. I feel we have gotten off track. We still have a strong-mayor form of government. It is the mayor’s responsibility to be the face of the community, speak with the residents, make hard decisions and be out in the public, whether for city business, events or just casually. This is the missing piece. As the mayor, everything is your job. I feel tensions can be relieved through more effective communication. I will institute monthly community conversations, public forums in print or in person, and continue individual conversations. We are all feeling the pressures of seemingly endless growth and development.
ELECTION DAY IS
NOV. 7
Frytz Mor
diverted or eliminated, and the benefits and resources refocused on the local community’s needs and desires.
4. Many residents feel public engagement is severely lacking. They see the city providing a bare minimum effort for the public to participate. Furthermore, people feel their voices are being drowned out for the benefit of outside interests seeking to profit off our land and resources. I will foster a wider and more accessible conversation, seeking common ground on issues from a wide range of voices, and encouraging the whole public to engage in the process. I will be available and proactive. Together we can build consensus, and a strong economy, for a bright and prosperous future that serves all.
Sandpoint City Council 1. Why are you running for Sandpoint City Council? Age: 53 Birthplace and residence: Phoenix/ Sandpoint How many years lived in Bonner Co.: 3.5 years Past/current government service (if applicable): N/A Profession: semi-retired Education: broadcasting and film Contact info: FrytzMorforSandpoint.com 1. I am running for office because there is a need for a People’s Mayor. Someone who is without conflicts of interest. One who is willing to engage, listen and seek understanding in the pursuit of common ground and best practices. Someone whose only interest is one of service to the betterment of the whole community. A neutral arbiter. I want to keep Sandpoint livable, local and accountable. 2. a. Foster a more meaningful conversation and build a robust system of public engagement to address our beloved city’s historical culture and growth. b. A thorough audit of the budget, and providing a transparent delivery of that information to the public. There are far too many costly projects being given preference and finance over basic needs like roads, waterways, waste treatment and jobs. c. Sandpoint is becoming increasingly unaffordable. Working families and young people struggle to make ends meet. It is critical we promote and develop long-term opportunities for our community.
3. Our city is being run like a corporation instead of a community. It’s being designed to attract outside influence rather than provide for residents. Our young people are leaving in search of opportunities not available here, and many long-term residents worry they too will be forced out. I will work to examine projects and programs that encourage incentive for education; hard skills; small businesses; and creative, sound solutions for housing and growth. We must clearly define where the fiscal waste can be trimmed,
2. What would be your top three priorities if elected? 3. What do you see as the No. 1 challenge facing Sandpoint, and how do you propose to address it? 4. It’s no secret that many people in the community feel City Hall is disconnected from what actually affects residents and the stewardship of their town. If elected, how will you speak to these concerns chart a path forward that a majority of citizens feel is in their best interests?
Amelia Boyd
Age: 53 Birthplace and residence: Phoenix/ Sandpoint How many years lived in Bonner Co.: (did not answer) Past/current government service (if applicable): current Sandpoint Planning and Zoning Commission member Profession: volunteer Education: B.A., liberal studies, CSUB Contact info: ameliaboyd4sandpointcc@ yahoo.com, Facebook: Amelia Boyd 4 Sandpoint City Council, ameliaboyd.com 1. For you! I care about the safety, health and welfare of all of our residents. I care about all of the issues that impact the daily lives for all families, workforce, business owners, retired community, and for our Sandpoint natives and newcomers. I am running to bring a voice of reason and a balanced approach to all city matters. I’m a good listener, but most importantly, I’m a doer. I feel I can make a positive impact and bring a fresh perspective to our city politics.
2. a. To push fixing our failing infrastructure as a constant priority. b. Revisiting and revamping the city’s current codes relative to the downtown corridor. The sense from the community is to steer away from giant buildings that aren’t cohesive to the charm of Sandpoint. Changes to city codes are needed. c. I want to bring our community together. I want our community to feel secure with their local government and that their concerns are being addressed. Residents should not feel that their words are falling on deaf ears. 3. Keeping up with the rapid growth that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought to our front doors. Our crumbling infrastructure is not equipped to sustain such growth. Funding is an issue and has not kept up with the growing list of Sandpoint’s needs. Allotting almost half of next year’s budget on capital improvement projects is a step in the right direction. I will push to keep those priorities in the forefront while always taking in consideration how our residents want their tax dollars spent. In today’s economy no one wants higher taxes and I have no intentions of going that route! 4. The importance of civic engagement is key in keeping a city thriving. I will encourage initiatives that support city-led, citizen-powered impact volunteering through a few different ways. I will insist the city conduct true open public forums. I will
personally have monthly Councilor’s Round Table discussions with residents to listen to the issues that are important to them. I will want a commission of a large variety of residents to discuss the issues facing Sandpoint. Our residents do not feel that their voices are being heard and that needs to change. I feel I can bridge that gap.
Pam Duquette
Age: 74 Birthplace and residence: Florida/ Sandpoint How many years lived in Bonner Co.: 40 Past/current government service (if applicable): retired public educator Profession: retired reforestation contractor, former Schweitzer Mountain employee, current volunteer with various conservation groups, KRFY events, Idaho Trails Association, Kinnikinnick Native Plant Society Education Committee and Idaho Conservation League water quality monitoring program Education: general/special K-8 education degrees with a Gifted and Talented endorsement, University of Idaho-Coeur d’Alene
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< ELECTION, con’t from Page 17 > Contact info: Facebook: Pam Duquette for Sandpoint City Council, pamduquette4sdpt@gmail.com, 208-448-1581 1. I am seeking a seat on Sandpoint’s City Council to help shape the future of our much-loved town that’s suffering growing pains. I say “Keep Sandpoint Real,” in my desire to retain our unique identity and character with sustainable growth reflecting that. We need to remember why most of us are here: to enjoy our natural resources that we need to keep healthy. I believe I can lend qualities and experiences to the team adding a diversity that reflects our community. Hearing too many times, “If you want to help, run for office,” I am happily doing just that.
2. a. Establish and initiate plans for real community input and involvement on issues we face, from notifications to hands-on workshops. b. With public/private collaboration develop a plan for achievable/ affordable housing for all. These options must protect and enhance existing neighborhoods. We need sustainable development preserving our natural resources. I am researching solutions implemented by other similar communities, near and far. We can work together to find remedies. c. Creative budgeting is needed to maintain and improve our infrastructure, which includes safe sidewalks and bike paths. We need to reroute trucks and rapid traffic from neighborhoods, utilizing transit options. 3. Our historic rate of growth has taxed our infrastructures, housing and wellbeing. We need to be diligent in our planning and zoning for the future. We can recruit more industry, commercial and local businesses to lessen our reliance on a tourist economy. Transit options can help alleviate unsafe travel around town and any parking issues. If we work through a city housing authority and/ or other options, we can utilize deed restriction possibilities and research/share successful ideas found in similar communities. Once we have a well thought out, collaborative comprehensive plan we should stick to it.
4. I continuously speak to this with residents as I introduce myself, share my thoughts and reasons for seeking a City Council seat and ask of their concerns. I feel active listening is key. My experience is unsatisfactory in getting acknowledgement/responses from the councilors and mayor.
18 / R / October 12, 2023
We need to implement a myriad of ways to notify residents of upcoming planning, meetings and projects that affect us all. Let’s have “real” hands-on workshops and reinstitute advisory committees. What if each councilor met with subsets of community members, to actually discuss issues, and bring these discussions back to the administration and council?
Deb Ruehle
(incumbent)
aligned with what the residents need and desire. c. The Downtown Waterfront design must include code changes addressing building heights and integrate seamlessly into the rural nature of our community without being flamboyant. 3. Housing is our No. 1 challenge. Let’s make the Sandpoint Housing Authority a reality and through that entity, build relationships with other community groups in both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors, to come up with real solutions and options to provide housing for our residents. 4. I would like to strengthen and re-energize Sandpoint’s citizen committees. By working with City Council, the committees need to be empowered to be a more effective tool in supporting city staff, engaging with elected officials and helping the city to improve connections with residents.
Age: 55 Birthplace and residence: Michigan/ Sandpoint How many years lived in Bonner Co.: 19 Past/current government service (if applicable): past Sandpoint Planning and Zoning Commission (two years), current Sandpoint City Council (10 years) Profession: physical therapist Education: M.A., physical therapy, Emory University (1995) Contact info: druehle@sandpointidaho. gov or Deb Ruehle Sandpoint City Council on Facebook 1. I’m very invested in the city of Sandpoint and the amazing people that live in this community. I feel that having been a council person for the past 10 years, I’ve been able to learn so much. I understand how the city functions and how to work within those boundaries to find solutions. That’s an important perspective that is valuable to the community, especially since these last few years have brought a lot of change and there are many plans and codes that need updating to keep in alignment with what the residents of Sandpoint desire. 2. a. We need to maintain our water quality. Moving forward with the plan for the treatment plant in a timely fashion is important. There would be a precipitous decline in the monetary value of our community if the timeline for the plant becomes significantly delayed. b. The Multimodal Transportation Plan has deficiencies that the community is frustrated with. The plan needs to be amended and
Kyle Schreiber
necessary. c. Addressing the lack of affordable housing. Workers and long-time residents are being pushed out. 3. The lack of affordable housing threatens our public safety, our local businesses and the fabric of our community. It’s not unique to Sandpoint, and no one solution will solve it. We need better enforcement of our short-term rental ordinance; every short-term rental operating without a permit is a potential affordable home for a local resident. I propose a deed incentive program, similar to what has proven successful in other communities like ours. And I would work to extend the homeowner’s tax exemption to landlords who rent to locals at affordable prices. 4. Residents need to know that their voices are being heard. And when the overwhelming majority of the public makes their preferences known, the city must take action. Rather than hiring more high-paid consultants who do not live in our community, we need to bring back the citizen committees — made up of local residents — into the decision making for the city. Decisions are often complex and it is usually impossible to fulfill everyone’s wishes, but public engagement needs to be more than a box to be checked or a line item on the budget.
Grant Simmons Age: 41 Birthplace and residence: Colorado/ Sandpoint How many years lived in Bonner Co.: 6 Past/current government service (if applicable): N/A Profession: marketing strategist Education: B.S., business administration, University of Wyoming Contact info: KyleForSandpoint@gmail. com, KyleForSandpoint.com 1. I am running for City Council because Sandpoint is a truly special place, and I want to see it stay that way. I have lived in other rural mountain towns around the West, and I’ve seen similar issues ruin towns like ours. 2. a. Transparency and responsiveness. The people in our community have lost trust in their city government. b. Spending our budget wisely by focusing on critical services first. Our critical services are failing, meanwhile the city has chosen to pursue several large projects that are questionably
Age: 50 Birthplace and residence: Colorado/ Sandpoint How many years lived in Bonner Co.: 16 Past/current government service (if applicable): current Sandpoint Planning and Zoning Commission member, Bonner General Health Foundation Board member (five years), prior pilot in the U.S. Air Force Profession: vice president, Kochava Foundry Education: B.S. systems engineering/ political science/Arabic, U.S. Air Force Academy (1995); M.B.A., University of Idaho Contact info: 720-491-8931, brandedfire@ gmail.com, rb.gy/xn548
1. My motivations for running for office are rooted in family and opportunity. Sandpoint has been a nurturing haven for my three children, each in different stages of their schooling — elementary, middle and high school. As the only candidate with school-aged children, I have a firsthand perspective of our educational system and the community’s future through their eyes. I’ve built my career here and desire for others to experience similar opportunities. I believe every family should enjoy what Sandpoint has offered mine, and I am committed to ensuring it remains a harmonious blend of personal growth, community involvement and professional success. 2. a. First, housing affordability is paramount to ensure families of all sizes and backgrounds can call Sandpoint home. b. Next, I prioritize infrastructure and strategic growth, ensuring our town evolves gracefully, keeping in mind the needs of our school-going population. c. Lastly, I emphasize the preservation of Sandpoint’s unique identity. As we progress, our community spirit, values and culture should remain intact — especially for the generations to come. 3. The delicate balance between Sandpoint’s growth and maintaining its core essence is our most pressing challenge. As a parent and active community member, I see the risk of our town being overshadowed as just a resort community. My solution involves fostering dialogues involving residents, businesses, educators and young students. By harnessing collective insights, we can ensure growth without compromising Sandpoint’s heart and soul. 4. Trust and relatability are foundational. I understand the feelings of disconnection, as I too navigate the challenges and joys of raising a family here. By regularly hosting community forums and actively engaging with families and students, I intend to bring the concerns of our younger generation to the forefront. My goal is to unite City Hall with our residents’ aspirations, ensuring decisions are made with every age group in mind. Through consistent interaction and a focus on the future of our children, we can steer Sandpoint in a direction that resonates with the dreams of all its residents.
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Elle Susnis
3. Preserving our community character. That elusive feeling that makes Sandpoint so unique. This encompasses more than I can say here in 100 words, so let’s start with our historic buildings. Since the lumber mills shut down in the ’80s, we’ve chased economic development for decades, rightly so. But sometimes it’s been at the expense of those homey, quirky places and historic touchstones that make Sandpoint so wonderful. I believe it will take the citizens, city elect/staff, and property owners working together toward responsible development to ensure we don’t lose any more of our hometown charm. 4. I believe getting people involved in initial project planning is key ahead of the big decisions. Above I touched on communication to citizens as a starting point. I also think that the city has been short-sighted in not activating popular volunteer citizen advisory commissions like the Tree Commission and the Bike/Ped Commission, and ad hoc committees for projects. Our ACHP Commission is a working commission and our members have willingly put in many hours of volunteer time. This commission work instills a real sense of pride in doing good work, which has a ripple effect in the community.
1. Why are you running for the LPOSD Board of Trustees? Age: 56 Birthplace and residence: birthplace, Chicago; residence, South Sandpoint, 38 years How many years lived in Bonner Co.: 48 Past/current government service (if applicable): appointed past volunteer commissioner, Sandpoint Arts Commission (seven years, two as chair); appointed current volunteer commissioner and chair of the Sandpoint, Arts, Culture and Historical Preservation Commission (two years) Profession: graphic designer/screenprinter, Clearwater Gear, 33 years Education: graduate of Sandpoint High School Contact info: ellesusnisforsandpoint@ gmail.com, ellesusnisforsandpoint.com, 208-946-9798 1. Sandpoint is at a fork in the road. The influx of population means that change is inevitable. We are going to have to choose whether we let the growth happen unchecked, or we as a community fight to keep our small-town community character. I will continue the work I have been doing as a volunteer on the Sandpoint Arts, Culture and Historic Preservation Commission to create protections for our historic downtown buildings and future infill. As a longtime local who grew up here, I believe I have a unique perspective to bring to the council.
2. a. Improved communication between city elect/staff and our constituents, especially before and during large projects. Providing timely information in utility bills (mail and email), increased social media postings, attending public events, flyers, door knocks to raise awareness. b. Using public input to guide staff regarding prioritizing and allocating funding to the most critical infrastructure projects. c. Preserving community character, especially historic preservation of the downtown core. Using our ACHP Master Plan, the updated Comp Plan (when adopted) and results of the Downtown Waterfront Competition (when adopted) to codify design and height guidelines, we can protect the look and feel of our hometown.
2. What would be your top three priorities if elected?
LPOSD #84
3. What do you see as the No. 1 challenge facing the district, and how do you propose to address it? 4. Students today are facing an unprecedented number of challenges — from the threat of violence in schools to increased class sizes to problems online and at home — if elected, how will you prioritize students’ mental, physical and educational wellbeing? ZONE 1
Jennifer McKnight
Age: 40 Birthplace and residence: Nevada/Sandpoint How many years lived in Bonner Co.: 7.5, 10 years in Idaho total, which is a quarter of my life. Past/current government service (if applicable): N/A Profession: homemaker Education: high school graduate and two years of college Contact info: jennmcknightzone1@yahoo.com 1. At this time in my life, I am being called to serve. I am passionate about education, helping families and representing my community.
2. a. A strong focus on improving academics. b. Connection between the community and the schools. c. Returning value and respect to families. 3. We need to regain local control. When our schools are led from the state level and influenced by national plans, we lose our local values in education, which transforms our society, and we
lose our uniqueness. I will listen to the people and vote strongly as their representative. I have the time to listen and the time and skills to ensure good policy.
4. Firstly I’d like to compliment LPOSD for its excellent security initiatives. There have been some really great recent upgrades. I think when schools try to handle every aspect of a child, including mental and emotional, they just don’t have that ability. The family unit is the “small class size” that can teach and protect a child’s wellbeing. The best interest of a child must be determined by their loving family.
Scott Wood
Age: 45 Birthplace and residence: Sandpoint, Idaho born and raised. How many years lived in Bonner Co.: 45 Past/current government service (if applicable): N/A Profession: owner/manager Wood’s Crushing and Hauling, Inc. Education: graduate of Sandpoint High School Contact info: scottwood933@gmail.com 1. I am a fourth-generation local with two kids currently in the district. I would like to see
them, and all kids, be successful. Students deserve a safe learning environment, with great teachers and ample opportunities, that allows them to grow into productive adults. I think the trustee in Zone 1 needs to know the community, has been in the community for generations and has a vision for what is best for the students. I feel this is a great opportunity to step up and give back, to help keep our schools and community moving in the right direction.
2. First, I would be there to work with the other board members and support the administration in running our schools. I am not running for this position with the intention of promoting sweeping changes to a district that I think is headed in the right direction. Second and third, I would like to see more vocational and technical classes at the middle school and high school levels, and I would use knowledge from my prior role on the Facilities Committee to continue to work on creative solutions to the issues facing our aging facilities.
3. Stabilized funding for schools would greatly support the districts’ goals with funds available to meet the needs of all students the district is serving and help us plan for those critical facilities updates. We need to work with our local legislators to advocate for statewide education funding and funds for facilities. The district needs to retain quality teachers, keep class sizes appropriate and make sure the buildings our children are learning in all day are safe. 4. Much of a student’s support system for their wellbeing should
come from their home and family, but we know that is not always the case. Schools can provide support for kids who need a safe place to learn and grow with classes they are passionate about, sports that give them an opportunity to shine, clubs that support shared interests and trusted adult advisers. I think it takes a community to accomplish this, so it is important that the district, and those who represent it, work to set policies that align with community values and continue to seek community input.
ZONE 4
Geraldine Lewis
(incumbent)
Age: 56 Birthplace and residence: Bahrain/Sagle How many years lived in Bonner Co.: 30 Past/current government service (if applicable): 8 years LPOSD Board Trustee, 3 years Sagle Fire commissioner Profession: office manager at St. Joseph Catholic Church Education: B.S. in electrical engineering Contact info: geraldine.lewis@lposd.org Publisher’s note: Geraldine Lewis is running unopposed in Zone 4
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1. Why are you running for the WBCSD Board of Trustees?
WBCSD #83
2. What would be your top three priorities if elected? 3. What do you see as the No. 1 challenge facing the district, and how do you propose to address it?
4. With the controversy surrounding the hiring of Branden Durst as superintendent, as well as the recall of two trustees, West Bonner County has been simultaneously divided and unified — how will you bring the community together to focus on education for the kids? ZONE 1
Alan Galloway
(DID NOT PARTICIPATE)
Margaret W. Hall
(incumbent)
Age: 67 Birthplace and residence: New Jersey/ Bonner County Years lived in Bonner Co.: more than 40 years Past/current government service (if applicable): Bonner County Planning and Zoning Commission (2005-2016), West Bonner County School Board (2015-present) Profession: associate director, Model Forest Policy Program Education: B.A., French/finance, University of Idaho; M.P.A., community development, University of Washington; paralegal certificate, business, University of Washington; Northwest Community Development Institute certification (Years 1-3 and advanced class); Sustainable Building Advisor Program certification Contact info: mwhall2020@gmail.com, mhall4wbcsd.com 1. I am running because I believe that I will continue to bring to the table a level-headed, thoughtful voice that also strongly advocates for public education on behalf of West Bonner County School District students, parents, staff, taxpayers and the community at large. I will work diligently to understand an issue before making a decision and am committed to listening and addressing the different concerns expressed by constituents and individuals throughout the district. Finally, I bring to the table applicable
20 / R / October 12, 2023
financial, educational, legal, organizational and development experience.
ZONE 3
Elizabeth Glazier
2. a. Work to regain trust in the full board by being transparent and consistent in our actions. b. Address any findings of the forensic audit in order to regain financial trust of the community. c. Work to minimize community polarization through refocusing people’s energy on implementation of the five-year Strategic Plan. 3. Restoring trust in both the board and in the district’s finances. With regards to board trust, board business needs to be done in open meeting unless the issue clearly falls under an exemption of I.C. 74-206, Executive Session; decisions need to be deliberated so people understand the rationale of a board member’s vote, and members need to come prepared for meetings. With regards to financial trust, the board needs to address any findings of the forensic audit; as well as update the district’s antiquated accounting software system. 4. Ideally, I would challenge people to turn off their social media devices for a few days. Social media is a positive tool but also incredibly damaging. Recently, it has intensified community polarization. We need to decompress and focus on the education of our children. Practically, I would advocate to hold 3Cs/town hall meetings. Further, as a board member, it is critical to set an example and treat everyone (students, parents, staff, community members) civilly and respectfully. We need to treat each other as we would want to be treated or would like someone to treat our parents or grandparents.
Age: 37 Birthplace and residence: Lincoln, Neb./Priest River Years lived in Bonner Co.: 14 Past/current government service (if applicable): N/A Profession: independent financial adviser with LPL Financial at Gateway Financial Partners, Priest River Education: B.A., Iowa State University (2009) Contact info: elizabethforwbcsdz3@gmail.com, elizabethforwbcsdz3.com 1. For many reasons but to name a few, I am a mother to two sons attending Priest River Elementary, and their education is a top priority for me and my husband. I am the president of the American Legion Auxiliary (Post 155, Oldtown) and therefore have experience leading meetings, delegating tasks, and contributing my time and skills to a cause. My background is primarily in inventory management so I’m also extremely comfortable with numbers, budgets and creating plans while using benchmarks to compare current performance against. I would bring a unique and fresh perspective to the WBCSD Board of Trustees. 2. There are many issues that need our attention but my top three would have to be: fiscal transparency; curriculum selection; improving our attendance, test and graduation numbers. 3. Currently our biggest challenge is coming together to resolve issues. There are an obscene amount of incredibly bright and capable adults in
our district — if only we’d spend more time providing opportunities to these students, that would be time better spent. There are many folks with concerns about curriculum and extracurricular activities, I happily encourage their involvement. If you have a specialty (skill or knowledge) that you’re willing to share, please step forward and offer it to the district. We could use more helpers, volunteers, mentors, substitute teachers, bus drivers, cafeteria staff, etc. It takes many hands.
4. We need to do a better job of leading by example. There are many ways to show support and the most impactful ways come from doing, not saying. I would love to see more transparency not only from the board but to the board. The board can only react to the information they are given. There are many instances where the board is being questioned about school issues that they haven’t even been made privy to. That can’t continue. To work cohesively, we must first recognize and call out the problem. Then together we can work on resolutions.
Troy Reinbold
(DID NOT PARTICIPATE) ZONE 5
Carlyn A. Barton
(incumbent)
Years lived in Bonner Co.: 38-plus years Past/current government service (if applicable): current WBCSB Zone 5 trusteeBonner County School Board (2015-present) Profession: certified teacher Education: I worked in banking while earning my general business degree. In 2008 I returned to college earning my Bachelor of Arts in elementary education with a minor. Contact info: carlynbartonzone5@gmail. com, cbarton4wbcsd.com, 509-863-3315 1. I have been watching our school system decline for years. My kids both attend schools in the school district. My oldest is graduating this year and my youngest has six more years in the district. I want to see change and am over the top excited about the community involvement. The system needs to be rebuilt and the culture changed. I feel I have a unique perspective as a teacher, parent and as a graduate myself from PRLHS.
2. It is important that we unify so we can focus on the health of our district. First we need to complete the audit and become financially transparent to all patrons. Second, we need to rectify WBCSD operational deficiencies and comply with the Idaho State Board of Education. Third, we need to bring integrity back to our school board. When we complete these the most significant steps we will be able to start mending the division of our district. 3. The most critical issue we are facing is to reunify the massive division and political agenda that has been the focus for several of the past few months. 4. I will try to reunify the district and support our community by listening to their concerns, advocate for our students and finally support our staff.
< see ELECTION, Page 21 > ELECTION DAY IS Age: 45 Birthplace and residence: Newport, Wash./Oldtown
NOV. 7
< ELECTION, con’t from Page 20 >
Kathy Nash
and will continue to call out when misappropriation of funds are taking place. 2. Make sure the district is more accountable in student safety as well as following policies, fiscal responsibility and to make sure parental rights are respected. 3. First is to get a responsible budget and have the district start living within their means, and to focus on the actual education of the students instead of allowing the indoctrination of social issues and the revisionary history that seems to be infiltrating. 4. One person will not be able to bring together the community, the bullying needs to stop. I will continue to speak truth about what I see occuring. I will also strive to have better educational outcome for the students.
Age: (did not answer) Birthplace and residence: Blanchard Years lived in Bonner Co.: 9 Past/current government service (if applicable): (did not answer) Profession: retired accountant Education: degree in accounting Contact info: NashforWBC@proton.me 1. Because I am the most qualified for this position. I have been actively involved since 2019 and know what policies that haven’t been followed. I have identified inconsistencies in the reports, books and budgets,
Attend the candidates’ forum hosted by the Sandpoint Reader, KRFY 88.5 FM and Sandpoint Online on:
Tuesday, Oct. 17 @ 5:30 p.m. Sandpoint Community Hall Candidates from the following races have been invited: Sandpoint Mayor, Sandpoint City Council, LPOSD (no WBCSD).
October 12, 2023 / R / 21
events THURSDAY, october 12
October 12 - 19, 2023
Artist Reception: Scott and Francis Switzer 5-7pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Come meet the artists and appreciate their artwork
Tonight! Art and Beer 5-7pm @ Woods Wheatcroft Studio and Utara Brewing crossover Visit Woods’ photo gallery, chat with friends, grab a drink ticket and return to Utara for a free one. Studio at 104 S. Second Ave.
West Coast Swing dance lessons 4:30-5:30pm @ Yellow Room Class meets every Thursday at 102 Euclid Ave., second floor
Live Jazz w/ Bright Moments 7-9pm @ The Back Door Excellent Sandpoint jazz trio Live Music w/ Nobody Famous 5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Island vibes Live Music w/ Frytz Mor 5:30-8:30pm @ Barrel 33
Live Music w/ Jake Robin 6-8pm @ Idaho Pour Authority
Contra Dance 7-10pm @ Sandpoint Comm. Hall All dances taught and called. Live music with Arvid Lundin and Deep Roots. New dancers session 7-7:45pm. No partner needed. $5 donation, $20/families
Live Music w/ Ian Newbill 6-9pm @ MickDuffs Beer Hall Rock/country/alternative
Harvest Fest 9am-1pm @ Farmin Park The Sandpoint Farmers’ Market closes out the season with entertainment, food booths, activities and vendors. Come say farewell!
Bingo Night at IPA 6-8pm @ Idaho Pour Authority
Oktoberfest at Granary Dist. 12-6pm @ Granary District Join Sandpoint brewers, bakers and retailers for a family-friendly Oktoberfest! See Page 23 for more info. Live music, stein races, more Live Music w/ Jason Perry 5:30-8:30pm @ Barrel 33
Live Music w/ Tim G. 6-8pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall
FriDAY, october 13
Live Music w/ John Firshi and the Blues Crew 6:30-9:30pm @ MickDuffs Beer Hall John and the crew make great music
SATURDAY, october 14
Oktoberfest/One-Year Anniver. 5-9pm @ Barrel 33 German beer galore, apple bobbing, fall treats and more
STAGE & SCREEN
Apple Fest 10am-6pm @ Downtown Sandpoint Visit your downtown Sandpoint Shopping District retailers for face painting, catapulting apples, cornhole, pie, Bingo and more Live Music w/ Jake Robin 5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Live Music w/ Buckly Storms 9pm-midnight @ 219 Lounge Fresh take on American alt-rock
Boot Juice at the Heartwood 7:30pm @ The Heartwood Center Doors open at 6:30 and music starts at 7:30. Tickets $15/advance, $20/door for adults, $8/ ages 6-17 and free for age 5 and under. Tix: mattoxfarm.com MCS concert: Alanna Dixon and Gosia Szemelak-Dauksza 7pm @ First Lutheran Church Soprana Dixon and flutist Szemelak-Dauksza will play with an North Idaho Philharmonia concert including pieces by Mozart and Schubert. $20/adult sugg. donation According to Coyote 7:30pm @ Panida Theater Join the celebration of Idaho Mythweaver’s 35th anniversary with this immersive experience in live, creative storytelling starring Nez Perce actor Kellen Trenal telling the traditional stories featuring a hero of American Indian mythology. $25/adult, $15/kids: panida.org
SunDAY, october 15
Sandpoint Chess Club • 9am @ Evans Brothers Coffee Meets every Sunday at 9am
Monday Night Blues Jam w/ John Firshi 7pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Weekly Trivia Night 6-8pm @ Idaho Pour Authority With rotating hosts
Magic with Star Alexander • 5-8pm @ Jalepeño’s Up close magic shows at the table
monDAY, october 16
Outdoor Experience Group Run 6pm @ Outdoor Experience 3-5 miles, all levels welcome
Lifetree Cafe • 2pm @ Jalapeño’s “Creative Transformation”
Courageous and Kind talks and meditations 6:30-8pm @ CREATE Arts Center, Newport, Wash. Talk and meditation by the monastics from Sravasti Abbey. Free to attend
tuesDAY, october 17 wednesDAY, october 18
5th Annual Heritage Orchard Conference: Free webinar series Third Wednesday of every month starting Oct. 18, ending April 17, 2024 Learn about making hard cider, how to find heritage apples and more. uidaho.edu/orchard-conference
Bingo Night at IPA 6-8pm @ Idaho Pour Authority West Coast Swing dance lessons 4:30-5:30pm @ Yellow Room Class meets every Thursday at 102 Euclid Ave., second floor 22 / R / October 12, 2023
Legend Has It (ski and snowboard film) 5-7pm @ Panida Theater For more info, see story at right of calendar Live Piano w/ Jason Garret Evans 5-7pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery
ThursDAY, october 19
IPAC Sandpoint Movie Night Fundraiser 5pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Grab a beer and hang out. Movies start at 6pm. All-ages event. Win new skis, skins and other swag. All funds raised will benefit the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center. idahopanhandleavalanche.org
Live Music w/ Chris Paradis 6-8pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall
Festival at Sandpoint Season Passes on sale @ festivalatsandpoint.com Passes for the 2024 summer concert series are on sale for $349. The 2024 Festival at Sandpoint will be July 25 through August 4
Teton Gravity Research brings Legend Has It ski and snowboard film the Panida
By Reader Staff Teton Gravity Research is bringing preseason stoke to the Panida Theater on Wednesday, Oct. 18 with its 28th-annual ski and snowboard film, Legend Has It, featuring elite athletes pushing the boundaries in a range of epic locations from Patagonia, the California Sierra and Pakistan to Jackson Hole, Wyo. The winter of 2022-’23 provided record-breaking snow conditions through some of the wildest terrain on Earth, which Legend Has It captures with stunning cinematography, mind-blowing scenery and some of Teton Gravity Research’s most intense riding to date. According to TGR, Legend Has It centers on the theme of ski lore that is “riddled with stories, sometimes of unknown origin, describing plausible but extraordinary past events.” Those legendary tales, “whether it be mythical storm cycles, heroic feats or whispers of fantastical terrain” are explored and, in the process, new legends are created. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the film starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $15 general admission and $7 for ages 16 and under. Come early for prize giveaways from Atomic, Volkl, Yeti, Sierra Nevada, Tincup Whiskey and more, with tour grand prizes including a new Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek edition, a trip to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and more from Eleven Experiences and other partners. Presented by Teton Gravity Research, get tickets at the Panida (300 N. First Ave.) or online at panida.org.
COMMUNITY
Say ‘prost’ to Granary District Oktoberfest
Portion of proceeds benefit Adia Burton during cancer treatment, also with Nights of Neon show at The Heartwood
By Reader Staff Bring your German-English phrase book to the Granary District on Saturday, Oct. 14, for an action-packed Oktoberfest celebration featuring local drink, loads of food and a Bavaria-sized basket of Deutschland-ish entertainment. From noon to 6 p.m., revelers can enjoy beverages from Matchwood Brewing Company, MickDuff’s Brewing, Laughing Dog Brewing, Utara Brewing, Timber Town Beer Company, Pend ‘Oreille Winery and Upside Kombucha, alongside delectables from Bluebird Bakery and Black
Forest Bakery. There will be a festival tent and beer garden, vendor street, pretzels, bratwurst, German bread rolls, schnitzel, Schwarzwälder kirschtorte (Black Forest cake), lebkuchen (German gingerbread cookies) and more — including hot spiced wine, a.k.a., glühwein. Entertainment will include music from Stone Van Mason (12:30-2:30 p.m.), a stein race, music from The Real McCoys (3:30-6 p.m.) a Best of Oktoberfest Contest (4 p.m.), in which winners will be chosen for their outstanding dirndl and lederhosen looks, a stein holding contest (5
p.m.), and corn hole and hammerschlagen (if you know, you know), all day. Fest-goers 21 and older are also encouraged to bring their own stein. As if having a good time wasn’t good enough, this Oktoberfest also benefits a good cause. There will be a silent benefit auction at Matchwood Brewing as well as vendors donating 10% of proceeds to support beloved community member and Opa! food truck owner Adia Burton, who was recently diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer — regarded as the most aggressive form of breast cancer.
Following the Oktoberfestivities on Oct. 14, local high-energy funk rockers the Nights of Neon will play a live show from 7:30-10 p.m. at The Heartwood Center (across the street from the Granary District at 615 Oak St.), with a $20 donation at the door and cash bar sales benefiting Burton as well. Meanwhile, a 7B Breast Cancer Warrior Fund is working to raise Oktoberfest funds will benefit Adia Burton, who $50,000 for Burton at gofund.me/ was recently diagnosed with an aggressive ccf731e2 to help her as she underform of breast cancer. Photo by Ben Olson. goes treatment that will keep from working for up to eight months. get back to doing all the things “This will allow her to focus she loves and we love about her,” on her healing journey so she can fundraiser organizers stated.
Party on, Sandpoint Apple Fest and Harvest Fest bring double the joy By Soncirey Mitchell Reader Staff Downtown Sandpoint hosts two fall festivals on Saturday, Oct. 14: Apple Fest and Harvest Fest. From Farmin Park to City Beach, Shopping District members have gone all out for Apple Fest with apple-themed food and activities, as well as special sales. Eat your fill of caramel apples and a dozen other fall goodies and then wash them down with fresh apple cider. There’s even an apple pie contest at Creations to support educational activities for local kids. The apple catapult on the east side of the Cedar Street Bridge will be a highlight for children and parents alike. For $5, contestants can hurl
five apples at the floating targets in Sand Creek — hit the bullseye and win a cash prize. Visit six businesses anytime from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. to fill out your Apple Fest bingo card and enter for a chance to win $250 in gift cards. With unique activities in every shop, it’s the perfect Saturday outing for the whole family. While you’re downtown, come celebrate the end of the Farmer’s Market’s 35th season and stock up on fresh produce and holiday gifts at the annual Harvest Fest. “The 2023 season was fantastic. We had a full roster of vendors and saw the Wednesday market start to get even busier,” said Market Manager Kelli Burt. “We had some really amazing new ven-
dors, and of course, our returning vendors are always the pillars that keep the market solid.” Live music and face painting are just a few of the highlights that will accompany a host of local vendors from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Alana Eckhart will also give the final installment of her monthly cooking demonstration — Taste of the Market — where she’ll prepare a recipe using ingredients sold at the market that day. Bring a donation to the Bonner Community Food Bank to receive a free raffle ticket and a chance to win a basket full of treasures and treats from area vendors. This Harvest Fest also marks the end of Kelli Burt’s tenure as market manager.
“I’m leaving after five amazing years to focus on my family. It’s been a wild ride — I was pregnant with my oldest my first year at the market and had him in August. He was in attendance shortly after, wrapped to me while I worked the booth,” she said. Burt’s second son was the same, and both have spent nearly every Saturday Market with her under the leaves of Farmin Park’s maple trees. “It’s like one big family at the market, and every spring we’re all so happy to see each other and every fall we’re also happy to go into hibernation,” Burt said. “I am going to miss the early mornings watching everyone unload, catching up, joking and sharing stories
Photo by Ben Olson. and hugs. It’s a really special community that has formed within the market and I hope it continues for 35 more years.” Apple Fest and Harvest Fest are FREE. For more information or for a list of activities by store, visit sandpointfarmersmarket.com/ harvest-fest or downtownsandpoint.com.
October 12, 2023 / R / 23
STAGE & SCREEN According to Coyote explores the richness and vitality of Indigenous storytelling One-person show at the Panida celebrates 35 years of the Idaho Mythweaver
By Reader Staff The Idaho Mythweaver is celebrating 35 years of partnering with regional Indigenous tribes to create cross-cultural connections through storytelling with a special live performance of According to Coyote — a one-person show focused on the legendary hero of Indigenous American mythology. Starring Nez Perce actor Kellen Trenal, According to Coyote will be performed at the Panida Theater on Saturday, Oct. 14 at 7:30 p.m., inviting audiences to experience the vibrant, entertaining anthology of traditional stories that showcase the richness and vitality of Indigenous culture through music, dance and theater. According to Coyote, written by John Kauffman and directed by the playwright’s niece Josephine Keefe, will be presented by the Spokane Ensemble Theatre in partnership with Red Eagle Soaring. Kauffman and his wife, Carlot-
24 / R / October 12, 2023
ta, toured the show throughout the Pacific Northwest and all the way to the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Under Keefe’s direction, the mono-dramatic performance takes on an element of family legacy, even as it explores the deep history of the Nez Perce creation myth and other ancient stories. “After the emotional and creatively depleting years of the pandemic, Josephine found herself questioning what kind of stories she wanted to tell in a post-pandemic world,” organizers stated in a news release. “Those questions led to a decision that now is the time to return to how ancestors shared stories and how she first learned about the stories from the Nez Perce Tribe.” The immersive hour of storytelling aims to teach lessons as it entertains. “The connection to community, family and the realization that all of us are still learning from our mistakes, just like Coyote does,
is at the core of this story,” organizers stated. The Spokane Ensemble Theatre began in 2001, focused on generating inspiring art that amplifies diverse voices and narratives in Spokane and around the country. The Idaho Mythweaver started in 1989 and has since created public radio documentaries, feature stories for radio and print, as well as sponsored performing arts events, lectures, cultural tours, intertribal gatherings, film screenings and cultural immersion classes for elementary schools in North Idaho. With a wide range of original, historic recordings created with regional Indigenous elders, the nonprofit Mythweaver has digitized and shared its “Native Voices Archive” with tribes, libraries and museum archives.
Those works have formed the basis for “Voices of the Wild Earth,” which produces podcasts based on the “lessons and wisdom of Indigenous peoples about how to live on the land and create a new relationship with nature.” Nine such podcasts have been produced to date and are featured on mythweaver.org, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. The podcasts are also being reformatted and have been broadcast by KPBX Spokane Public Radio each month since August. The most recent program, “Kootenai Keepers of the Earth,” is a redux of the Mythweaver’s original KPBX radio documentary about the Kootenai (Ktunaxa) Tribe of Idaho produced in 1991. Supported by the Idaho Humanities Council and Bonner County Endowment Fund
for Human Rights in the Idaho Community Foundation, the series “explores the connections between traditional stories and oral histories, and modern day tribal ecological practices to form a pathway for the future,” according to the Mythweaver. The Mythweaver’s 35th anniversary celebration performance of According to Coyote is co-sponsored by Ting internet and includes a raffle of an original painting of sockeye salmon by Troy, Mont.-based artist Terrel Jones titled “Spawning Channel,” and a silent auction of a dozen specially selected items. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for kids 12 and under, available at the Panida (300 N. First Ave.), panida.org at cash-only at Evans Brothers Coffee (524 Church St., in Sandpoint). Photo: Nez Perce actor Kellen Trenal. Courtesy photo.
MUSIC
Queen Bonobo, Aspen Kye to play The Hive By Ben Olson Reader Staff Those seeking a unique musical experience in Sandpoint can look no further than The Hive, which will host a special free dual show Saturday, Oct. 14 from 8-11 p.m. with Sandpoint’s own Queen Bonobo and Spokane artist Aspen Kye. Queen Bonobo, also known as Maya Goldblum, has deep musical roots in Sandpoint. Drawing from her personal life, extensive travels and heartache, Goldblum has tapped into a genre-bending style of music that is completely her own sound. The daughter of Sandpoint jazz musician Arthur Goldblum, she has taken elements of jazz and combined it with folk and her own strange brew to form a sound that is a nice change from the usual fare. It was singing with her father on the Eichardt’s stage as a young girl that laid the foundation of Queen Bonobo’s art, which she further refined after years of living in Ireland attending university and songwriting in the pubs scattered throughout the isle. Dominated by a staccato rhythm, a dynamic tempo that rises and falls with the intensi-
READ
... old journal writings. I used to be that guy who was always sitting in a corner scribbling notes in my Moleskine notebook. I wrote about characters for future novels, funny scenes that I wanted to remember, interesting turns of phrases and anything else that captured my attention. Now, as an overworked 40-something who is always trying to find more time to work on personal creative projects, these earlier notes are not only entertaining, but a motherlode of ideas to tap into when the muse is on break.
LISTEN
ty of lyrics and a dedication to and folk is infused with just the avant-garde song structures and right touch of psychedelic rock lyrics, Queen Bonobo’s songs to give it an edge that balances often leave the the soundscape listener feeling perfectly. Aspen Queen Bonobo satisfied, yet Kye’s sultry and Aspen Kye wanting more. Saturday, Oct. 14; 8-11 vocals and tasty Hailing grooves are p.m.; FREE; 21+. The from Spokane, complemented Hive, 207 N. First Ave., multi-instrumenSandpoint, livefromthe- by thoughtful and talist and talented hive.com. Listen at heartfelt lyrics queenbonobo.bandsinger-songwriter and an incredible camp.com and sound- ensemble group Aspen Kye lives cloud.com/aspenkye. somewhere beof performers tween genres. Her who immerse unique blend of neo-soul, jazz listeners into a singular musical
Queen Bonobo, left (also known as Maya Goldblum) and Aspen Kye, right. Courtesy photos. experience. This performance will serve as a farewell of sorts for Queen Bonobo, who is moving back to New Orleans shortly after the gig. Follow her story on Instagram @queenbonobo and listen to her songs on Spotify, YouTube and Bandcamp. Aspen Kye can be found on Instagram @aspenkyemusic.
A snapshot of notable live music coming up in Sandpoint Boot Juice, Heartwood Center, Oct. 12 The name “Boot Juice” is almost as memorable as this Northern California band’s sound, which combines striking three-part harmonies with strings, percussion and brass accompaniment from its nine members. Childhood friends Connor Herdt and Evan Daly spent their teenage years singing and playing Americana and rock ’n’ roll songs on their guitars before founding Boot juice, and the band only grew from there. Now saxophone, trombone and trumpet add a dash
This week’s RLW by Ben Olson
of blues and soul to their arrangements. Boot Juice will bring an energetic party vibe to the Heartwood Center on Thursday, Oct. 12. Catch them before their drive off on their West Coast tour in their ’96 International school bus. — Soncirey Mitchell 7:30-10 p.m.; $20 adults, $8 kids 6-17. The Heartwood Center, 615 Oak St, 208-263-8699, mattoxfarm.com. Listen at bootjuicejams.com.
North Idaho Philharmonia, First Lutheran Church, Oct. 13 Get a taste of high culture at the First Lutheran Church, where the North Idaho Philharmonia will present the soaring sounds of soprano Alanna Dixon and the flawless flute stylish of Gosia Szemelak-Dauksza in a performance Friday, Oct. 13. Dixon, a student at the Music Conservatory of Sandpoint, will sing the Latin-language Mozart motet Exsultate Jubilate, K. 165 in her debut solo performance, while MCS teacher Szemelak-Dauksza will play the
Mozart flute concerto. Led by Assistant Conductor Kent Kimball, the North Idaho Philharmonia is a collaboration between MCS and other high-level arts institutions. A second performance will take place Sunday, Oct. 15 in Coeur d’Alene. — Zach Hagadone
According to members of the group Wray, hailing from Birmingham, Ala., they are fueled by their status of living in a “blue city in a red state.” I can certainly identify with that mentality. Instead of the predictable Southern rock that one would imagine coming from Alabama, Wray’s sound is something altogether different. With an indie rock sensibility that sounds more NYC than Roll Tide, Wray’s elegant lo-fi sound is gently supported by synthesizer backdrops and avant-garde breakdowns. It’s a nice mix of all the genres I enjoy. Start with their 2020 release Stream of Youth / Blank World.
WATCH
I’m always a sucker for good nature documentaries. Animals are often more fascinating than humans, and they provide a good break from reality when the world spins a bit too fast. With the comfortable and familiar voice of David Attenborough leading us along, Our Planet II is the next escape for animal and nature lovers. This four-part series covers everything from giant whales to swarms of locusts as they follow the movement of these magical animals around our globe. Stream it on Netflix.
7 p.m., $20 suggested donation. First Lutheran Church, 526 S. Olive St., 208-263-2048, sandpointconservatory.org/events. October 12, 2023 / R / 25
BACK OF THE BOOK
Let’s talk about vampires
America’s undying obsession with bloodsuckers
From Pend d’Oreille Review, October 5, 1917
RANCHER KILLED BY FRACTIOUS BULL B.E. Ralph, prominent rancher of the Clarksfork country for a quarter of a century, was killed by a bull Wednesday morning. Mr. Ralph left the house about 5:30 to take up some horses in pasture. No one saw the circumstances which resulted in his death, but it is supposed he went to change the picket place of the bull or the bull broke loose while Mr. Ralph was crossing the field. About 8 o’clock Mrs. Ralph became worried over Mr. Ralph’s failure to return to the house and suspected he had met injury from the bull. She went out to search for him. His dead body was found in the field, trampled and torn. The clothing was hanging in shreds and many bones were broken, the legs gored and marks of the encounter were found all over his body. The bull had butted and rolled the lifeless form for a hundred feet or more. Mr. Ralph was about 45 years of age and a native of Illinois. He came to Clarksfork as agent for the Northern Pacific about 25 years ago; took up a homestead on land which is now the outskirts of the village and had always lived in the community since that time except for a year or two in Washington as an agent for the railroad during the period in which he was holding down his homestead. In recent years his ranch supported a fine dairy and he became one of the heaviest owners of thoroughbreds in his vicinity. Mr. Ralph’s remains lie at the Woodmen hall at Clarksfork awaiting the arrival of his soldier son when the time for holding the funeral will be arranged. 26 / R / October 12, 2023
By Soncirey Mitchell Reader Staff
I blame Twilight on the Puritans. Vampires have featured in American culture and media for centuries, but never more so than in the past 50 years, with smash-hits like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, True Blood and several million versions of Dracula — and the repression that drives this trend is distinctly colonial. Puritans originally defined our culture not by what it was, but by what they didn’t want it to be — notably ostentatious and sexual. Though most people wouldn’t describe themselves as “Puritans” anymore, branches of American Protestantism regularly preach against these concepts, keeping them in the public consciousness and feeding our cultural fascination with what society deems illicit. Enter the vampire — the perfect embodiment of everything our culture condemns and craves. Some are beautiful villains like Lestat from Interview with the Vampire, or for that matter, most Draculas. (For the record, I’m referencing the TV Lestat, not Tom Cruise.) They are amoral, hypersexual figures motivated solely by their own desires — the opposite of puritanical values. The creators of Dracula 2000 took this idea very literally when they revealed that the first vampire was Judas Iscariot. Costume manufacturers and plastic surgeons market this fetishized, commodified version of the vampire as the ultimate freedom. There are several anti-wrinkle treatments called some variation of “vampire facelift.” Being forever young and unburdened by pesky things like morals is meant to be the perfect, unobtainable liberation. Look, but don’t touch. This conceptualization of the vampire is
STR8TS Solution
a kind of false rebellion. Going out half-naked on Halloween or defying old age through surgery are common mass marketed practices that amount to little more than a fleeting thrill and a tidy profit for Spirit Halloween. Just as Harker or Van Helsing defeats Dracula, the party-goer takes off their costume at the end of the night, and societal conventions take over once more. No matter how thrilling these characters are, they always have to lose to reinforce preexisting moral doctrine. Good has to triumph over tempting evil, and in the end we’re left with the moping, self-hating vampires like Louis from Interview or Henry from Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter. Yes, I’m ashamed of the hours of my life I’ve spent watching horrible vampire flicks. Vampires like Louis and Edward from Twilight are the embodiment of religious guilt. If you don’t believe me, keep in mind that Stephenie Meyer, author of Twilight, is Mormon and Anne Rice, author of Interview, also writes novels chronicling the life of Jesus. Penitent vampires apologizing for their very existence is the supernatural equivalent of Martin Luther’s self-flagellation. They live on the outskirts of society, constantly at war with themselves. These characters usually lack the cartoonish, fetishized immorality of their villainous counterparts, and I would argue they’re popular because they ultimately reflect back our own insecurities. The prevalence of everything from beauty standards to racism ensures that no matter who we are, we’re ashamed of some part of ourselves. It’s easy to see why marginalized groups like the LGBTQIA+ community adopt these vampires. Homophobia in the U.S. teaches kids to hate who they are — because of their gender identity or
sexual orientation — using the same puritanical values that shape the vampire. So long as society convinces us to hate and fear who we are we’ll always rely on these struggling vampires to show us that we aren’t alone. These two archetypes aren’t the only kinds of vampires in modern media. It would take a mortal lifetime to catalog the thousands of American vampire stories and the equally diverse facets of our society that they mirror. One thing they have in common, though, is that they aren’t going away any time soon. We invited the vampires into our house and now we get to live with them.
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I can picture in my mind a world without war, a world without hate. And I can picture us attacking that world, because they’d never expect it.
Solution on page 26
Solution on page 26
By Bill Borders
eudemonia /yoo-di-MOH-nee-uh/
Woorf tdhe Week
[noun] 1. happiness; well-being.
“Many philosophers argue that the pursuit of eudemonia should be the ultimate goal for individuals, as it encompasses not just momentary pleasure but also long-term well-being.” Corrections: We printed an incorrect date for the Idaho Mythweaver’s According to Coyote event in the Oct. 5 edition. The correct date is Saturday, Oct. 14. Also, we got the name of the “Front Yard Project” in Ponderay wrong in our Oct. 5 story about the Black Rock cleanup and, finally, referred to a “hyperbolic” arc in the Oct. 5 “Back of the Book” essay, when it should have been “parabolic” arc. Triple oops.
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Laughing Matter
ACROSS 1. Commanded 5. Chip dip 10. Storage site 14. Dregs 15. Fairy tale character 16. Outcropping 17. Eloquent 19. Aggravate 20. Petroleum 21. Stay with as a guest 22. British penny 23. Marsh gas 25. Fables 27. Unit of energy 28. Showy flowers 31. Bouffant 34. Archer’s bolt 35. Expected 36. Module 37. Existence 38. Celebration 39. Falsehood 40. Fixes socks 41. Cherished 42. Tadpole 44. Sheep sound 45. Accomplishments 46. A strong post 50. Grassy areas 52. Monetary units of Serbia 54. Enemy 55. Freudian topics 56. Wound 58. Arid 59. Outward
Solution on page 26 60. Once, long ago 61. Sounds of disapproval 62. Writing tables 63. Trawling equipment
12. Nonclerical 37. Prostitute 13. Look at 38. A young horse 40. Colors flirtatiously 18. Female egg organ 41. Light wood 22. Farm equipment 43. Focusing glass (plural) 24. Weight DOWN 44. Planks 26. Excited 1. Flower 46. Snap 28. Fetch 2. Eagle’s home 47. Ardent 29. Car 3. Administered 48. Perch 30. Appear to be 4. Estimated (abbrev.) 31. Any soft or 49. Dings 5. Twine 50. For fear that soggy mass 6. Come up 51. Anagram of “Sage” 32. Freshwater 7. Hubs 53. Play parts mussel 8. Streetwalkers 56. Light Emitting 33. A temporary 9. Ever last one Diode fortification 10. Filter 34. Rockets, missiles 57. 5 plus 5 11. Armor-plated and planes October 12, 2023 / R / 27 warship