Reader october22 2015

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/ October 22, 2015

(wo)MAN

Susan Drinkard on the street compiled by

If you could talk to anyone famous, living or deceased, who would you choose and why?

“Marilyn Monroe. She is such an icon. I just love her.”

Colleen Fuller Server Sandpoint “Jerry Garcia. I’d like to talk to him about music and why he chose drugs over music and friends. My wife and I talked to him at the Holt Center in Eugene, Ore. He asked us if we had enough tickets. Our names were put on ‘the list’ and we actually sat with Ken Kesey. I’d also like to talk to Richard Nixon, so I could punch him.”

DEAR READERS,

The seasons are certainly changing out there. What a great time of the year to take a walk in the woods or a drive along a fall color corridor.

Along with the fun, of course, there is also a lot of raking to do out there.

Curious what to do with those piles of leaves? If you live within the the city of Sandpoint, the Sandpoint Public Works crew will be picking up unbagged leaves from November 9-13. City residents are asked to place leaves in the street next to the curb by November 6. Please note that branches and bagged leaves will not be picked up. Please call the City Shop if you have any questions: 263-3428, Mon-Fri, 7:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m.

If you live outside the city limits, please remember, though it isn’t illegal like it is in some states to burn leaves, it’s bad for the environment and your health.

Leaves make great compost fodder, and are also great for mulch to cover garden beds during the off season. You can also bag them and use them for insulation for a cheap way to cut back on heating costs. They also make great piles so you can toss in your little brother.

-Ben Olson, Publisher

Contributing Artists: Eureka Institute (cover), Contributing Writers: Cameron Rasmusson, Ben Olson, Nick Gier, Scarlette Quille, Dion Nizzi, Kate McAlister, Drake the Dog, Andrew Sorg.

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.

“In wine there is wisdom,

in beer there is freedom, in water there is bacteria.

”

-Benjamin Franklin

Live Music

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

Requirements: –No more than 400 words –Letters may not contain excessive profanity or libelous material. Please elevate the discussion.

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

Friday, Oct. 23

Email letters to: letters@sandpointreader.com

with Special Guest Tom Newbill

Check us out on the web at: www.sandpointreader.com Like us on Facebook.

Neighbor John Kelley

6 to 9 p.m.

Zachary Deason LPO High School Junior Sandpoint

Zach Hagadone (emeritus) John Reuter (emeritus)

Advertising: Jen Landis jen@sandpointreader.com Clint Nicholson clint@keokee.com

“Eleanor Roosevelt. She was a down-to-earth person who was interested in everything. If she saw that something need doing, she would do it.”

“Albert Einstein. I want to know what fueled his passion for science and what made him tick. He is a personal hero of mine.”

Editor: Cameron Rasmusson cameron@sandpointreader.com

Subscription Price: $75 per year

Lee Jones Retired Homemaker Sandpoint

Stan Anderson Disabled Sandpoint

www.sandpointreader.com Publisher: Ben Olson ben@sandpointreader.com

Printed weekly at: Griffin Publishing Spokane, Wash.

“Madame Curie ... because of her discoveries.”

“George Washington, because he was the best president we’ve ever had.”

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

Submit stories to: stories@sandpointreader.com

Ed Katz Robotics teacher Bonners Ferry

Maebeth Fuller Retired Sewing Instructor Sandpoint

READER

Saturday, Oct. 24

Neighbor John Kelley with Robert Crader and a list of all-star players

4 to 7 p.m.

About the Cover This week’s cover photo was taken

by Steve Holt, executive director at the Eureka Institute. The photo was taken of the iconic sculpture that serves as both the marker, as well as the pay station for the Baldfoot Disc Golf Course opening this weekend.

October 22, 2015 /

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COMMENTARY

Did Jesus pray to Allah?

American Christians and Malaysian Muslims Fight for Their Gods

By Nick Gier Reader Columnist

Early this month the Georgia Department of Education removed a teaching guide for world history. Parents in Walton County were protesting the way Islam was being taught, especially the claim that Jews, Christians and Muslims worshipped the same God. Some parents were fearful that their children had actually become Muslims because they had been forced to memorize the Five Pillars of Islam.

Meanwhile, half way across the world a judge in Malaysia ruled last year that the word Allah is exclusive to Muslims and that the nation’s 2.5 million Christians must refrain from using the word in their scripture and worship. Bibles have been confiscated all around the country. In January of 2010, nine churches and a convent were fire bombed by militants on motorcycles.

There are about 12 million

Arabic speaking Christians in the world. They live as substantial minorities in Lebanon (35 percent) and Syria (10 percent) and in lesser numbers in Iraq, Palestine, and North Africa. Many others live as good citizens in dozens of nations throughout the world. Contrary to popular belief, the majority of Arabs living in the U.S. are Christians, not Muslims.

Jews and Christians prayed to God as Allah long before the prophet Muhammad. Wikipedia informs us that “the first Christian ruler in history was an Arab called Abgar VIII of Edessa, who converted ca. AD 200.” The Covenant of Medina (AD 622) recognized Judaism, Christianity and Islam as different religions, but it declared that their adherents worshipped the same God, acknowledged by all those present as Allah.

These three faiths are sometimes called the “Abrahamic religions” because they also recognize Abraham as their first patriarch.

Malaysian Christians speak Malay and their Bibles are printed in that language, but Allah, a loan word from Arabic, is used for God. Malay Christian scholar Ng Karn Weng states: “I think the government knows that its policy of banning the use of the word ‘Allah’ by non-Muslims is just intellectually untenable, legally indefensible and morally embarrassing.”

Laying out a detailed linguistic explanation, Weng maintains that “allah is an ordinary Arabic word which is not specifically linked to a particular religion.” The word is composed of two parts “al-ilah” literally meaning “the strong God.” Il as God is exactly the same as the Canaanite El, which appears many times in the Hebrew Bible as El Bethel (the God at Bethel) and El Shaddai (the God of the Mountain). (Do you think that the Canaanites led protests yelling: “El is our God not yours?”) Elohim is the

Experience not necessary...

Beaver damage...

Dear Editor, I commend the job that Sandpoint Parks and Recreation did this summer battling goose poop at City Beach. Every dawn after a night of carpet bombing the guys were out sifting sand, raking grass, and scraping sidewalks to ready the beach for the day’s picnickers and sunbathers. Inevitably they fell short at times but, hey, they were seriously outnumbered.

I’m less delighted with maintenance of the trail along Sand Creek.

The stretch between Bridge Street and the Cedar Street Bridge is especially attractive with its stone sculptures, period lampposts, ghats, and cottonwood trees, some just now approaching maturity. Beavers like it too, and I wish Parks and Rec took them as seriously as they do geese. After all, they’re easier to defend against. The mesh collars present on most trees seem to do a fine job except that they occasionally disappear and must be replaced.

Two weekends ago a beaver attacked one of the largest cotton-

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most common word for God in the Old Testament.

Jesus and his disciples spoke Aramaic, an ancient Semitic language from the Assyrian Empire. There are at least a dozen phrases in the New Testament where the original language is Aramaic. One of them is rather famous: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me”? (Matt. 27:46).

Trying to be as authentic as possible in his film “The Passion of the Christ,” Mel Gibson has Jesus speaking Aramaic and praying to Aalah, Western Aramaic for God. Allah and Elohim are not names of God; rather, they are generic Semitic words for deity itself, or one might say the Godhead. When the Quran lists the 99 names of God, Allah is not among them. Only the Sufis believe that Allah is the 100th name of God. Some argue that Allah is a superior word for God because it is genderless and cannot be made into a plural. In the Old Testament Elohim is sometimes found with a plural verb.

I agree with Muslims who are concerned that the Trinity undermines the Christian claim

Beaver damage on the Sand Creek trail. Photo by Alan Barber.

woods, injuring it severely before giving up. I called Parks and Rec Monday morning and reported the damage and missing collars. Their response was, “I’ll let ‘em know.”

The following Friday night he returned and felled a neighboring smaller cottonwood, also missing its collar. By the next weekend Mr. Beaver had removed the smaller cottonwood as a hazard to navigation and returned to drop the larger cottonwood across the trail. Once again I called Parks and Rec on

Monday morning, this time whining even louder about the collars. Their response was, “I’ll let ‘em know.”

It takes more than emptying the trash and replenishing the poop bag dispensers to keep this trail the gem that it is. I hope to see mesh collars, or some other defense, reappear on the remaining trees before they, too, disappear down one of the ghats into the creek.

Alan Barber Sandpoint

Dear Editor, Somehow there are those who believe that experience on the City Council is either a prerequisite to or a huge advantage in a run for the mayor’s office. Au contraire.

As a resident of 68 years, I’ve followed city politics for at least 50 of those years. I can tell you unequivocally that the three of the four best mayors Sandpoint has had in the past five decades have been Sally Cupan (1980-83), Marian Ebbett (1984-1987) and Ron Chaney (1988-1991 and 1994-95).

Ray Miller could have been appointed in 1994 but magnanimously declined because he was teaching full time. Ray is the only one of the four that had any previous experience on the city council. Sally, Marian and Ron had never been on City Council before being elected to the mayor’s office—had not even attended City Council meetings!

It doesn’t take experience at City Hall to do a good job in the mayor’s office. It takes integrity. Combine that with a love for our communi-

to monotheism.

Careful readers of the Old Testament will notice that the word “Lord” is substituted for the Hebrew Yahweh (English: Jehovah), because the Hebrew God forbade that his name be spoken. One might argue that Yahweh/Jehovah was a unique divine revelation to Moses and therefore exclusive to the Judeo-Christian tradition. However, in his book “The Early History of God,” Mark Smith has discovered that Yahweh has an earlier appearance as a warrior-god in the religious traditions of the Midianites and Edomites.

When I taught the existence of God in my philosophy classes, the conclusion, if any the arguments are valid, is that there is one God, not many.

Deity could be expressed in any number of languages as Allah, Elohim, Deus, Dios, Dieu, Gott, or Gud, but of course it would be absurd for believers to insist that only their word for deity is the legitimate one.

Nick Gier of Moscow taught religion and philosophy at the University of Idaho for 31 years. ty and a desire and a willingness to engage others who share those attributes and hopefully the right person will sit in that office. But in order for that to happen, you have to vote!

Helen Newton Sandpoint

Unhappy Camper...

Dear Editor, I thought I was the only one that saw Mr. Santa as an unhappy camper. It’s nice to see there are two of us.

Bill Litsinger Sandpoint

Negative campaigning...

Dear Editor, It’s known by every voter and is commonly hated by all, often used as an excuse to not vote by many.

It sickens the election like a disease and is highly contagious, spreads faster than wildfire with nearly exact results. You are hard-pressed

See LETTERS, p. 5

PERSPECTIVES Elk season: What does it mean?

To the average American, it is the time of year when it is legal to run around in the woods carrying guns and shooting large woodland animals. Then again, some people in our country may not even know what an elk is.

I once carpooled to work with a guy from Kansas. One day, he slammed on the brakes and started speaking some sort of rushed Kansas dialect. The only thing I could understand was the occasional, “ELK.” As I sat in pain from the third degree coffee burns festering on my inner thighs, I noticed a herd of elk. Thing is, they were nowhere near the vehicle. I replied to his hysteria, “Yes, I see. I am pretty sure we were in no danger of hitting them.”

He turned to me disgustedly and said, “You don’t understand. I am from Kansas. Seeing an elk is like seeing a unicorn.“ I didn’t understand it at the time, but there was more truth to this than anything else elk-relat-

LETTERS, con’t from p. 5

to find a proponent of negative campaigning. Barely a soul will attach themselves to anything suspected of “trash talk.” So why does negative campaigning get used so much? Very simple answer: because it works! The results are just too compelling for some to not take advantage of this low-ball tactic.

An election is a battle of candidates selling themselves as the most positive outcome of someone’s vote, and to do that is at the least a very tall order for most candidates. A way to leap frog your opponent is to diminish his existence in order to raise your own.

Truthfully, it does not raise yourself to diminish another man.

It merely leaves you at the idle status you were already at. So in fact you’ve lowered the entire election with this tactic. Is this why voters are constantly unimpressed with the quality of candidates?

As humans we are all fallible, but somehow a couple candidates seem to make it to election day without being torn apart too bad.

Elk season for beginners

ed I’ve heard since. You see, elk “season” is the time of year when people get so excited about killing things they begin to experience some sort of mania.

This mania leads to several curious behaviors. It generally begins with stories about past hunting experiences and references to a sacred place called elk camp.

These behaviors are a combination of nostalgia and the promise of new stories to come. I suppose the onset of elk-related mania looks different in every hunter.

However, there are some common themes. Much like Jane Goodall, I have been observing a family of elk hunters for the past couple of years. I’m compiling data, because I don’t hunt, and find myself fascinated by the hunter species—especially the bearded ones.

If you are considering dating someone who may be an elk hunter, there are a few things you may want to know.

First, elk season is only three weeks. No one is allowed to get married, die or give birth during

this three-week time period.

Selfish decisions like these will inevitably be lonely experiences.

Long story short, do not expect an explanation or apology for any absences during hunting season.

You signed up for this.

If they are really into hunting, good luck. There are all kinds of “seasons” and things to shoot. You will have to join them hunting or learn enjoy dating yourself every fall. End of story.

Next, during the three sacred weeks of elk season, hunters must carry their various hunting accouterments with them at all times.

This means it is perfectly normal for the passenger of the vehicle to ride everywhere—including the grocery store—with at least two rifles in their lap.

There are apparently different bullets for different animals, and elk season runs concurrently with grouse season. So clearly, you will need more firearms. JUST IN CASE. Just in case a huge horned animal appears out of nowhere somewhere between your house

Lucky for us right?

The real offender here is the avenue that the negative message is promoted through. The media feeds us with more than enough scandal and rumors, only giving us a break when one man falls.

Sensational stories sell very well because we all want to know. Even complete garbage that is a known lie can pass depending on who it’s about. Readers and listeners are like a puppet on a string impatiently waiting for the next barb. The very poor ending to this is that the truth is rarely exposed, and when it is, it’s way after the damage is done. Ben Franklin supposedly said that a man would be made healthy, wealthy and wise just by going to bed early and getting up early. Although one of my favorite quotes, it’s just nothing but theoretical opinion, and more than anything Ben knew it would sell his “Poor Richard’s Almanac.”

On a personal level, I want to say I have thoroughly enjoyed this campaign for mayor. My number

one goal to stay positive is working well for me. I’m sleeping well at night, and I have peace of mind.

Join me in this goal, and let’s share a positive future.

Mose Dunkel Sandpoint

Candidate responds...

Dear Editor, I found it ironic that Mr. McDonald criticized my “un-responsiveness” to city residents while at the same criticized my opposition to increased coal and oil rail traffic.

Somehow he fails to realize that the coal/oil train issue has repeatedly drawn more public participation than any single issue before council in the last two years. Could that be because he, like Mr. Dunkel, never participated himself? Council has appropriately responded to this overwhelming public concern. Would Mr. McDonald suggest that I ignore the hundreds of people in Sandpoint who have spoken out on this issue?

Is that the kind of responsiveness he

and Walmart, and you want to point a gun at it, because you know it’s actually illegal to shoot elk at the store.

However, if you do actually shoot an elk during elk season, you’re encouraged to put the corpse of the animal strategically in the back of your vehicle. This is preferably done with its wide-open eyes staring into the souls of those who park near the hunter or follow them in traffic. This tells the world the hunter has killed an elk. After the hunter parades the dead beast around town, they will typically park it outside restaurants and bars. This prompts customers will inquire about the hunt and stroke the hunter’s ego. Bear in mind, he or she has already been stroking it themselves for hours, but they’re still eager to share the stroking burden with others.

Perhaps the most mysterious part of these three weeks is something called elk camp. My knowledge of elk camp is fairly sparse. I have been there once for about 45 minutes. What I learned is that attendees have to bathe in some sort of scentless soap so they don’t scare the elk away.

They take this very seriously. The lone female huntress of the group actually ripped out two of her own hair extensions because scentless conditioner does not exist. Can you say sacrifice? Apparently, elk despise smells like soap and deodorant. But they must adore scents like beer, chew, various

smokable substances and campfires. Who knew? The hunters had been at the camp for a week and had all sorts of stories about all the elk they had seen, but no one had actually shot anything but beer cans. Super weird. I feel like the safest place in the world for an elk would be elk camp.

Also remember that elk hunters can and will become violently ill during work hours—or any hours—spent away from elk camp. This illness will vanish as soon as they get into a vehicle with a loaded weapon. Accept it. If you decide to make chicken soup or nurse a hunter back to health, don’t be surprised when, once they regain the strength to rise, they rise right up out of your house out the door and quickly proceed to a freezing wooded area with no telephone reception to continue their healing process. Don’t bother calling them out on this. You are a sucker. Deal with it.

Last, and perhaps most importantly: When your hunter comes home after three weeks of sporadic attendance in your life, stinking of no-scent shampoo and elkless, say nothing. Remember: They have firearms. And they were hunting the elusive North Idaho unicorn.

expects from his elected official? Or perhaps he just wants council to be responsive to only his issues?

fective member of the City Council where he distinguished himself by his dedication and commitment to make Sandpoint a better place. He has shown excellent judgment as he helped negotiate with the Idaho Department of Transportation on the Highway 2 alternative, thereby preserving downtown streets.

Shelby helped draft the Sandpoint Comprehensive plan. Shelby has worked with regional and federal agencies to develop a regional trails master plan. He is now the City Council president.

In contrast, Mose Dunkel has never held public office, nor has he served on any committees. He has almost never attended a City Council meeting.

By contrasting and comparing the two candidates it becomes clear that Shelby has more experience, is more knowledgeable and is an effective and inspirational civic leader.

Shelby Rognstad Sandpoint

Shelby is the best choice...

Dear Editor, I am part of a large group of people who live outside of Sandpoint, but consider Sandpoint home.

Sandpoint is where we go for our groceries, entertainment, eating out and where we attend church. We are invested in Sandpoint. What happens in and to Sandpoint is important to us.

Sandpoint residents, please know the mayoral candidates and vote. Both Mose and Shelby are relatively young and have lived here for more than 15 years. Ask what each has done to make Sandpoint a better place. Actions do speak louder than words. Shelby has served the citizens of Sandpoint for the past eight years. He has been an ef-

XOXO, Scarlette Quille

Ken Meyer Sagle October 22, 2015 /

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NEWS

Local entrepreneurs face the ‘Shark Tank’

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff It’s one thing to have a great idea that becomes a hit on Kickstarter. But what happens when you have to pitch that idea to the big wigs?

JD Claridge experienced exactly that when he and business partner Charles Manning appeared on the popular TV show “Shark Tank” to talk up their Sandpoint-based drone company xCraft. Their challenge: persuading wealthy, famous business tycoons to invest money in their innovative drone designs.

As far as meetings go, Claridge can’t think of a more intimidating one than his “Shark Tank” experience.

The show’s panel of investors, including Barbara Corcoran, Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner, aren’t exactly gentle when an idea doesn’t strike their interest.

On the other hand, an appearance on the show is a huge opportunity. There’s the chance to secure more capital, sure. But “Shark Tank’s” popularity also means millions would learn about xCraft for the first time. It’s no wonder the TV show receives more than 60,000 applications every year.

“This is the kind of exposure companies pay millions to get,” Claridge said.

For such a huge opportunity, the “Shark Tank” invitation largely fell into their laps, according to Claridge.

In April, he received an email from show representatives expressing interest in featuring a drone company on the program. Claridge and Manning seized the opportunity, filling out applications, writing out their pitch, shooting an audition video and more.

The entire application process took about six weeks to complete. As show employees worked with them to refine 6 /

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their pitch and collect more information, they cautioned them that they may never reach the taping stage. And even if they did, there was no guarantee it would be included in an episode.

Sure enough, however, show producers soon cleared the duo to shoot their spot.

Once in the studio, Manning and Claridge went through hair styling and make-up application. They were allowed to wear their own clothes, but the staff blocked off any visible logos. Claridge had to take off his Apple Watch and wrap tape around the branding on his shoes.

Finally, it was time for the pitch itself, which Claridge can’t discuss in detail until the show airs on Friday. What he can tell you is how nervous he was.

“It was about 10 times worse doing this in person compared to the times I’ve watched the show,” Claridge said.

It’s hard to blame him.

After all, he had one shot to pull his presentation off. But he also felt well-prepared.

Meanwhile, Manning, more accustomed to brokering deals as Kochava CEO, took some of the pressure off him.

“He’s been in this world before,” Claridge said. “He was comfortable. I was not.”

Did xCraft’s drones impress the sharks, or did they crash and burn? We won’t know until the episode airs Friday. All Claridge can say is how thankful he was to escape the tank.

“I felt a big sense of relief when it was all done and I hadn’t passed out or anything,” he said.

Either way, the TV show appearance is likely only good news for both xCraft and Sandpoint. The town itself received good publicity from Manning and Claridge’s

TV appearance kicks off crowd-funding campaign

JD Claridge, left, and Charles Manning, right, appear on “Shark Tank.” Photo courtesy of ABC. glowing descriptions. Claridge isn’t sure how many of those comments will make the cut, but he’s confident Sandpoint is represented well.

“As far as the long-term goes, I think this will be great for not just us, but the town as well,” Claridge said.

XCraft, meanwhile, will enjoy a huge publicity boost at a critical juncture. For one thing, the company is already selling its flagship drone, the X PlusOne, in several packages at its website, www.xcraft. io. The drone’s innovative design, which combines the high-speed forward propulsion of a winged drone with the maneuverability and vertical take-offs and landings of a helicopter drone, made it a crowdfunding success on Kickstarter.

Even more critically, “Shark Tank” launches their next Kickstarter project, the PhoneDrone, with a high-publicity introduction. The PhoneDrone circumvents the problem of most drone models—the high cost—by letting

a smartphone do the heavy lifitng. Since smartphones come equipped with GPS systems, accelerometers, gyros, high quality cameras and other sophisticated tech, would-be pilots simply plug one into the drone and either program an automated flight plan or control it with a second device.

The upshot is that PhoneDrone sells for a fraction of the X PlusOne’s price: $195 for a limited-supply Kickstarter early bird special, $235 for Kickstarter backers once early bird prices are gone and an expected retail of $295 after the Kickstarter ends. “[Those smartphone technologies] are really all the expensive equipment that goes into a drone,” said Claridge.

Earlier this year, the PhoneDrone failed to achieve liftoff after an unsuccessful Kickstarter campaign. With the second attempt launching this Friday, the same day the “Shark Tank” episode airs, this second campaign could end much differently.

25 Idaho kids chosen for cannabis testing Let’s face it, Idaho isn’t a very tolerant place when it comes to weed. A new executive order from Gov. Butch Otter may help to ease a few of those restrictions.

The Spokesman-Review reported that Idaho will enroll 25 eligible children in a free program to provide them with an experimental, non-psychoactive drug extracted from cannabis.

Though there may be over 1,500 children eligible for the program, the introductory program serves as a first step to determining whether CBD oil can help with intractable epilepsy or seizure disorders.

After Gov. Otter vetoed the CBD bill in April, Idaho remains an island amongst several weed-friendly states.

Washington and Oregon have legalized recreational use, while Montana, Utah, Nevada and Wyoming have all legalized marijuana for various medicinal uses. [BO]

FEATURE Schoolhouse in the Woods Out of the woods: The transformation fromtotheSandpoint Academy of the Arts

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff

The Schoolhouse in the Woods isn’t in the woods anymore. But it hasn’t lost its identity.

For four years, the little Cocolalla school collected a small but enthusiastic roster of parents who appreciated its energetic educational philosophy. This year saw the school migrate out of the woods and north of the Long Bridge. Now housed in a roomy building at 1555 Ontario Street, not far from Forrest M. Bird Charter School, Schoolhouse in the Woods has become Sandpoint Academy of the Arts. The name is different, but teacher Lorri Goodman says the school’s raison d’être is still the same: putting the joy back in learning.

“The students seem to respond more to their learning here because they’re given the time to be kids,” Goodman said.

That’s certainly the case Wednesday morning, when the 14 students break from studies for a rambunctious free-forall of tumbling and dancing.

It isn’t long, however, before Goodman, her teacher aides and parent volunteer Mandi Conway have them settled down for an hour alchemizing science, color blending and logical reasoning into a single lesson. The kids absorb the experiment with rapt attention and enthusiasm. “[This model] is a great alternative for parents who feel their kids don’t fit into the regular school district,” said Conway.

As a private school, Sandpoint Academy of the Arts officials have the freedom to shape the curriculum as they see fit.

For parents frustrated with the Common Core standards of public schools, that’s a draw in itself. But Goodman says that’s only a small part of the big picture. She has the freedom to draw from public schools, charter schools, the Waldorf model and more to create a melange of effective techniques. And when one approach doesn’t

seem to be working, she has the professional dexterity to try something else.

That approach allows Sandpoint Academy of the Arts to embrace extracurriculars, including regular lessons in music and art. The school also emphasizes good values in its mindfulness lessons.

“Learning to be good people is a part of who we are as well,” Goodman said.

The students practice those values on the playground, of which they see plenty. Regular playtime is a major part of the academy’s model, Goodman said. It allows the kids to internalize their lessons or even put them into practice, an approach Goodman said is backed by several academic studies.

“Unstructured time allows them to practice what they’ve learned in their mindfulness lessons,” Goodman said.

It also means that, on the whole, academy students love their school. When asked what their favorite part of the academy was, their answers ranged from playtime to their teachers and friends to, well, everything.

“That’s what impressed me the most [about the school]: the excitement my kids had for learning,” Conway said.

Due to the small enrollment, students of varied ages end up interacting and helping one another. While older or more advanced kids are able to tackle learning at their skill level, they also help their younger peers on similar subjects. The youngsters, meanwhile, have role models in the older students, which motivates them to work harder.

“It’s almost like a family in a lot of ways,” Conway said.

The move out of the woods and into the town may change the school in some ways.

Goodman said they now have the space to increase enrollment to around 45 students.

But parents who have come to love their kids’ second family can rest assured that atmosphere will stay the same.

Parent volunteer Mandi Conway provides Sandpoint Acadamy of the Arts students a lesson in color blending Wednesday morning. Photo by Cameron Rasmusson.

Economic summit to meet in Sandpoint next week

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff

Navigating the tricky world of the Bonner County economy is no easy task. A summit, entitled What’s Happening Up North?, aims to clear those murky horizons with a comprehensive look at the local economy.

Scheduled for Nov. 5 at Sandpoint Technology Center, 130 McGhee Rd., the summit will feature economic experts evaluating local financial footing and suggesting priorities for improvement. Be sure to RSVP your spot at the conference by Nov. 1—simply visit www.whatshappeningupnorth.org to register.

The summit will also recognize local businesses like Kochava and Quest that have weathered some tough years through innovative thinking.

One of the event organizers, Megan Lawson of Headwaters Economics, hopes attendees will walk away with greater confidence and insight into their business decisions.

“Our vision is that partici-

pants walk away with more connections to others in the business community and an awareness of the support available for small businesses and entrepreneurs,” Lawson said. “The workshop is structured to encourage discussion among speakers, panelists, and participants, so we’re hoping for a frank conversation of how to build on the area’s many strengths and address some of the challenges.”

To that end, the workshop has lined up an impressive speaker roster, including Jeffrey Sayer, director of the Idaho Department of Commerce. Representatives of Kochava, Quest Aircraft and Sandpoint Airport will also weigh in on the advantages of doing business in North Idaho.

“There are a lot of great economic development efforts afoot, and we wanted to provide a venue for sharing ideas across the local business ecosystem,” Lawson said. “People live in northern Idaho because it is a great place to live, and this workshop will also highlight why it is

a great place to do business.”

The event is free, but organizers request that attendees RSVP by the Nov. 1 deadline.

Visit www.whatshappeningupnorth.org to confirm your seat and see the full roster of speakers and presentations.

Idaho taxpayers to cover more than $60M for fire season The Gem State had a fire season for the record books. With over 750,000 acres burned, Idaho Department of Lands reported that tax payers will be footing a $60 million bill for wildfire on state land in 2015. The majority of fire activity was centered in the northern part of Idaho.

The figure blows last year’s fire suppression total of $25 million out of the water.

IDL also reported that over 60 homes were lost to fire this year, as well as 80 structures.

With a looming Super El Niño this winter, snowpack could be even lower, leaving Idaho residents wondering if there may be a repeat in 2016. [BO] October 22, 2015 /

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Community Cancer Services offers ‘A Night to Remember’

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

Bouquets: •Congratulations to all the volunteers and workers who have toiled over the years to bring a disc golf course to Sandpoint to stay. Special thanks go out to the city of Sandpoint, the Eureka Institute and the Sandpoint Disc Golf Association for their amazing efforts.

•A bouquet to all those diligent proofreaders out there who point out our mistakes. I never mind hearing about them, even if I am embarrassed and ashamed of stupid grammatical errors. As a staff of two, we’re always struggling to keep our quality level high. Anytime we slip, I want you to tell us!

Barbs: •Back when I was a bartender, I encountered piles of vomit quite often. Now that I am a newspaper publisher, I thought those days were over. Nope.

Last week, as I showed up to accept our print run of Readers to deliver to the masses, I found a mobile phone lying next to a puddle of strangely bright orange vomit. Using my investigative journalist skills, I deduced that the owner of the cell phone must’ve been imbibing some crazy mixed drink, or was perhaps ingesting radioactive fluid, before stumbling down Cedar Street and taking a seat on our steps to catch his or her breath.

There is a Monster energy drink sticker on the phone, so that could’ve been the culprit. At this time, the person must’ve set their phone down and appears to have projectile vomited all over the steps and sidewalk. The offender then skulked off, leaving behind their mobile phone and a few pounds of stomach bile, half digested noodles and orange mixed drink. If you are missing a black Motorola phone with a Monster sticker on the back, I would absolutely love to give it back to you. Please, come on into the office and attempt to claim it. Pretty please?

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/ October 22, 2015

When Cindy Marx heard the dreaded C-word in 2005, she immediately went into action.

“When you hear the word cancer for the first time, you don’t know what it means,” said Marx. “Is it a death sentence?

What options do I have?”

Marx began researching her options. She searched in the local phone directory for a community outreach center and had trouble locating it because of a brand misidentification. She talked with doctors and caregivers about options. At times it was overwhelming, but one organization that assisted her immensely was Community Cancer Services (CCS).

Established by Heather Gibson in 2003, CCS has grown to become a vital organization aiding cancer patients in the battle for their lives. Gibson, who passed away in 2006 after an eight-year battle with cancer, has infused her vitality and

spirit into the program that has aided countless individuals in over a decade of service to the community.

“I knew about Heather’s journey,” said Marx, manager of Pend d’Oreille Winery and vice president of CCS. “I had lunch with her at the end … she was an amazing woman.”

In 2014 alone, CCS provided services to over 165 people in Bonner and Boundary counties.

These services include providing gas vouchers to clients to attend their appointments and treatments, medical expenses, grocery expenses, as well as cosmetic assistance with items like wigs, scarves and makeovers to boost morale.

In addition to the services provided, CCS features a licensed social worker on staff to offer free one-on-one counseling to clients and their family members.

“When you’re going through this treatment, it’s so hard to travel outside the area for what you need,” said Marx. “There

is still so much you have to do in Coeur d’Alene or Spokane. It adds up.”

In 2014, CCS provided over $80,000 in direct assistance to their cancer patient clients.

“All this money stays in Bonner and Boundary Counties,” added Marx.

To generate these substantial funds, CCS relies on the work of grant writers and bits and pieces of support from other organizations. The most important source of funding, however, is an annual fundraiser called “A Night to Remember.”

“This fundraiser provides half of our annual budget,” said Marx.

“A Night to Remember” takes place Friday, Nov. 6 at Bonner County Fairgrounds.

Starting at 5:30 p.m., the fundraiser features a wine tasting, dinner, a live and silent auction, and lots more fun activities.

The Ponderay Rotary Club will partner with CCS to host the fundraiser, and local winemakers

such as Pend d’Oreille Winery, Small House Winery, Clearwater Canyon and Coeur d’Alene Cellars will offer their products.

The proceeds from this event will benefit Community Cancer Services and Ponderay Rotary’s Scholarship Fund.

A sponsorship of $1,200 or more will purchase a table for eight people to the wine tasting and dinner, and also includes a case of commemorative wine from Pend d’Oreille Winery.

If you are unable to sponsor, but would still like to attend, individual tickets to the event are $75 each and can be purchased by contacting Stefanie Nostdahl at 208-255-2301. If you are interested in volunteering or donating to the event, write to Cindy Marx at cindy@powine. com.

Attend “A Night to Remember” on Friday, Nov. 6 at 5:30 p.m. at Bonner County Fairgrounds.

Local citizen visits Sen. Risch in D.C.

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

Last week, local volunteer and concerned citizen Dave Pietz traveled to Washington, D.C., so that he could meet face-to-face with U.S. Sen. Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and discuss two issues that Pietz feels are important to North Idaho.

“There were two areas I was interested in speaking with Senator Risch about,” said Pietz. “One was for Scotchman Peaks to reach full scale wilderness status. The other was the oil train issue.”

Pietz was able to log some face-to-face time with Risch on the trip last week, and expressed hope that the information he’d shared was well received by Risch, as well as his Chief of Staff John Sandy, as well as Darren Parker, who handles environmental issues for Risch.

“I appreciated the opportunity to approach Risch as an individual in a community,” said Pietz.

In regard to the Scotchman Peaks Wilderness, Pietz said

his main point to Sen. Risch was to point out how special and unique the area was.

“I grew up in Bonners Ferry, but spent most of my time living in the Midwest,” said Pietz. “After retiring and coming back to Sandpoint and the Northwest, I appreciated an area like Scotchman Peaks Wilderness.

It’s so valuable and unique in the country.

It needs to be a place to stay in full-scale protective status. That’s what I told Sen. Risch mostly.”

Pietz also mentioned to Risch the recent news that Idaho Forest Group just endorsed Scotchman Peaks as a wilderness, which he said impressed the senator.

As for the oil train issue, Pietz said he asked Risch to vote against a bill passed in the House last week that would lift the ban on oil exports, essentially guaranteeing more oil trains on the tracks.

Dave Pietz outside Sen. Risch’s office in Wash., D.C. “I told him I was in favor of him voting against that bill,” said Pietz. “I think he’s favorable. I hope he’s heard from other Bonner County Citizens.

I would suggest people to follow up with Risch. We need some other legislation than what is in existence now. It’s just not good enough.”

Pietz, retired from working with the Energizer Battery Company, said that he was familiar with hazardous materials

and has worked with the Department of Transportation, as well as with EPA regulations.

Interested in contacting Risch about an issue that concerns you? The closest office is at Harbor Plaza on 610 Hubbard St., Suite 213 in Coeur d’Alene. Call 208-667-6130 to setup an appointment to talk to his staff. You can also login to www.risch.senate.gov and follow the links to write an email.

READER

Show your support for the Sandpoint Reader!

Four great performances in one night!

All proceeds go to the musicians and the Reader!

Saturday, November 21, 2015 @ 7pm Panida Theater $10 in advance $12 at door

Mama Doll Harold’s IGA Josh Hedlund Charley Packard for more information, call 265-9724

ise Lynskey Please help support Diten in her fight w h cancer

WHAT’S HAPPENING

UP NORTH

Denise Lynskey is a long-time Sandpoint resident, worked as the Coldwater Creek DVP Inventory Planning Catalog/Web, and currently works as the Rehab Office Coordinator at Bonner Coo General Health

Free & Open to the Public

The Prospering Business Workshop

Denise Lynskey is currently undergoing cancer treatment and needs your support!

J

oin this free collaborative workshop to share ideas about business prosperity, economic development, and quality of life.

November 5th, 2015

Bring your ideas and connect with business owners, community leaders, and other residents commited to improving economic opportunities in North Idaho.

Charles Manning

Continental breakfast and catered lunch provided!

7 am to 1:30 pm Sandpoint Technology Center

FEATURED SPEAKERS Founder & CEO, Kochava

Jeffrey Sayer

Director, Idaho Commerce

Dave Schuck

Director of Customer Service Quest Aircraft Other panelists and speakers from a dozen companies, agencies & organizations.

Donations can be made to the account in her name at

Mountain West Bank or by visiting www.gofundme.com/eb58y6u4 Contact Michelletucker438@gmail.com for more info

Visit www.whatshappeningupnorth.org to RSVP and see all speakers.

RSVP by November 1st, 2015 The event is free, but space is limited!

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MickDuff’s Beer Release Pa Five Minutes of Fame 6pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall 6pm @ Monarch Mountain Coffee Join Lake Pend Oreille Waterk Open mic for all poets, spoken word artists and acoustic muful year of grassroots advocac sicians...no sign up sheet, no microphones, no censorship special brew with the talented Thursday Night Football Party Dollar Beers!

5pm @ Laughing Dog Brewery Rock 103 Thursday Night Football Party hosted by Tracy Bell 8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Artist Reception - Elana Westphal Live Music w/ Travis Yost 5pm - 7pm @ Shibusa Gallery (525 Oak St.) 5pm - 8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery An exhibit called “Collateral Damage,” by El Check out this Missoula-based artist Live Studio Interview w/ Blaze n’ Kelly Westphal, created to honor soldiers and their famil Proceeds from art sales benefit Sandpoint veteran 8pm @ KRFY 88.5 FM Suzy Prez will host a live in-studio inter- Live Music w/ Brandon Watterson 6:30pm - 9:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall view and with Blaze and Kelly A Sandpoint artist w/ acoustic originals and cover Live Music w/ The Causeway 5pm - 8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Two brothers from Spokane who offer indie soul rock BlueStreak Concert 7:30pm @ Di Luna’s Cafe Representing one of the more veteran crews of the entire Northwest bluegrass scene, BlueStreak’s unique sound is anchored around the powerful vocals and guitar work of Sandpoint’s Doug Bond Live Music w/ Chris Lynch 6pm - 9pm @ Arlo’s Ristorante

Live Music w/ Patrice Webb 7pm @ the Pearl Theater (Bonners) Webb will be performing with Tom D’Orazi and members of Heartbreak Pass. Webb fuses folk, country, swing, and the blues. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door Live Music w/ Spumoni Blues 6:30pm - 9:30pm @ MickDuff’s BeerHall Blues, rock, folk, country, jazz and pop Neighbor Day 6pm @ Neighborhood Pub $1 beer and Cards Against Humanity tables Live Music w/ Truck Mills 5pm - 7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority Blues and beer? What could go wrong

Sandpoint Chess Club 9am @ Evans Brothers Coffee Meets every Sunday at 9am. All are welcome Monday Night Blues Jam w/ Truck Mills 7:30pm @ Eichardt’s Pub

Mug Member Monday @ Neighborhood Pub 2 for $5 pints / 2lb basket wings and pitcher of beer for $20 Trivia Night 7pm - 9pm @ MickDuff’s Karaoke Night 9pm - Midnight @ 219 Lounge

Bingo Night 6:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Charley Packard & Friends 7:30pm @ Eichardt’s Pub

Live M 4pm Come

Blaze n’ Kelly benefit concert 3pm @ Panida Theater Blaze & Kelly perform at a Blazen Benefit f da. Doors open at 2 p.m. Blaze & Kelly ha sold-out crowds all over the Northwest. Enj bar and appetizers, and bid on incredible si items all to benefit the Panida. Tickets $18 Football specials at the Neighborhood Pu 2lb basket wings and pitcher of beer for $2

2 for $22 @ Neighborhood Pub 2 entrees and an appy for $22

Sandpoint Mayoral Candidate Forum 5:30pm - 7:30pm @ Sandpoint Community Hall Learn the positions of Sandpoint’s mayoral candida Rognstad and Mose Dunkel. This forum is sponsore pointOnline and the Sandpoint Reader. Free and o public. Take part in your city government, come pre questions you’d like to ask the candidates

Thursday Night Football Party 5pm @ Laughing Dog Brewery Rock 103 Thursday Night Football Party hosted by Tracy Bell featuring the Miami Dolphins at the New England Patriots Dollar Beers!

8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub

Quee 9pm @ Kick kings tume open 9 p.m

The 8pm The man Quin Pani

ful

October 22 - 29, 2015

elease Party and LPOW Annual Meeting Beer Hall lle Waterkeeper in celebrating another successs advocacy for clean water as LPOW releases a e talented crew at MickDuff’s Beer Hall

ub

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

Reader recommended

North Idaho Reads Vino Art Exhibit 9am - 8pm @ Sandpoint Library Inspired by the 2015 North Idaho Reads selection, Idaho Wine Country by Alan Minskoff, local artists display their winethemed works for one day only as part of a week-long event series sponsored by the East Bonner Co. Library Dist., North Idaho Reads & Sandpoint Arts Commission

Live Music w/ Us 2 k St.) 5pm - 7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority e,” by Elana Live Music w/ Chris Lynch heir families. 6pm - 9pm @ Arlo’s Ristorante nt veterans Live Music w/ Ken Mayginnes

all and covers

North Idaho Reads Wine 101 & Colter’s Creek Wine Tasting — 5:30pm @ Evans Brothers Star Jensen of Idaho Wine Merchant and Jon Harding from Colter’s Creek Vineyard & Winery invite you to sample pours from varieties of Colter’s Creek wines.

An informal discussion about tasting, selecting, storing and serving wines is included. Event is free with first tastings and light refreshments included

7pm @ La Rosa Club Live Music w/ Justin Lantrip 7pm @ La Rosa Club

Queen B. Drag Show and Costume Contest 9pm @ Eagles Club (1511 John Hudon Ln.) nd Kick off Halloween with sensational queens and lk, kings, compete for cash prizes with your best cosin tume of any theme, and dance until you drop! Doors open at 8 p.m. with the show and costume contest at 9 p.m. Open to the public 21 and over. $6 admission Live Music w/ Neighbor John Kelley & Robert Crader 4pm - 7pm @ Bernd Barrel Come up and see why Neighbor John rocks!

n Benefit for the PaniKelly have played to west. Enjoy a no-host credible silent auction ckets $18 rhood Pub eer for $20

Live Music w/ Neighbor John Kelley 6pm - 9pm @ Bernd Barrel Blues legend Neighbor John will be playing with special guest Tom Newbill Local Cloth - handweavers art installation 4pm - 8pm @ Idaho Pour Authority Come see the work of a dozen regional handweavers at the IPA and go home with a great gift!

The Andy Hackbarth Band 7:30pm @ Panida Theater POAC presents singer-songwriter Andy Hackbarth and his original style of music as part of the Performing Arts Series. Hackbarth weaves together 19th century Spanish Romanticism, jazz standards, the classical masters and contemporary indie rock. Tickets are $12 POAC member; $15 adult; $10 ages 18 and under

Fall 2015 Warehouse Antiques Open 10am - 3pm @ Old Galvi Warehouse we’ve got the tricks and the treats... and some spicy brew for you (located near Evans Brothers) North Idaho Reads Finale Event with Author, Alan Minskoff — 1pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Alan Minskoff is the author of “Idaho Wine Country,” and will give a special presentation and Q & A session. POW is offering drink and appetizer specials including an Idaho wines flight feature.

Event is free and includes giveaways, and a prize drawing for a $50 Bistro Rouge gift certificate

UPCOMING EVENTS Oct. 29-31 - Rocky Horror Show @ The Panida Theater

d trattoria owne y l i Fam

Oct. 30 - Monster Mash - all ages show @ The Hive w/ Champagne Wolfgang Oct. 31 - Halloween Bash with Dumpstaphunk @ The Hive Nov. 6 - Wild and Scenic Film Festival @ Sandpoint Events Center

y Hall al candidates Shelby s sponsored by SandFree and open to the come prepared with

Nov. 7 - Sandpoint Film Festival @ The Panida Theater Nov. 7 - Dinner and Movie: Add the Words @ Sandpoint Comm. Hall

Open for Dinner 7 days a week @ 4:30pm

Open Tuesday - Saturday

102 S. First Ave. Sandpoint, ID

105 S. First Ave. Sandpoint, ID

208-255-2100

208-263-0211

The Rocky Horror Show (playing Oct. 29, 30 + 31) 8pm @ Panida Theater The hit cult-classic musical arrives at the Panida for its 40th anniversary celebration with live performances. This American Laboratory Theatre production features local talent and is directed by Jesús Quintero. General admission is $20, and students and seniors is $17. Tickets available in advance at Panida.org, or at the door on the night of the performance. AmericanLabTheatre.com. 208-534-1140

5pm

Toys & Gifts

Only 10 days left to get

20% off on all including:

•Role play costumes for Halloween •Train sets •Art & crafts •Play kitchens •Puzzles •Doll houses •Games & more!

400 Schweitzer Plaza Dr. Ponderay, Idaho •265-7242• October 22, 2015 /

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To submit your own pet photos, please send a photograph and a little bit of information about your special friend to ben@sandpointreader.com.

Please put “PET PHOTOS” in the subject line.

-tori, joon and kelsi“My Babies!”

Kelsi (Mom) is in the center, and had to be put down (kidney problems) this past spring.

Her babies, Tori (male) on the left and Joon on the right are 10 years old, and as frisky and friendly as ever!

They are a Yorkie, Pomeranian, Shitzu mix.

Tina Friedman Sandpoint

Broadcasting in Sandpoint on 106.7 FM and in Digital HD 12 /

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/ October 22, 2015

Local artists showcase assemblage art honoring those who have served

By Dion Nizzi Reader Contributor

Many would hold to the argument that good art makes for good conversation.

Assemblage Art, as practiced by local artist, Elana Westphal, is on the calendar this weekend through Nov. 21 at the Shibusa Gallery and promises to give those who appreciate fine art plenty to discuss. Westphal is hosting a reception Friday night from 5-7 p.m. at the gallery. The event will showcase a few of her pieces along with other local artists Kevin Watson, David Baransky and Nan Cooper.

The centerpiece of the show is her work “Collateral Damage,” a striking collection of old war photographs, letters from soldiers, Western Union correspondences and Vietnam era draft cards, all encased in a World War II-era suitcase.

Through this piece, Westphal hopes to convey a side of war that is rarely considered: the impact that war has, not just on those who fight, but to those who wait for the fighters to return. Then, of course, there’s the pain experienced by those whose loved ones never return.

“The U.S. has been at war 222 of the 239 years we’ve been an independent nation,” said Westphal. “I know from my own personal experience of soldiers coming home from war that families are involved.

Hopefully, this piece will bring about some sense of how that feels ... to everyone involved.” “’Collateral Damage’ is the name I gave it, because I really wanted to bring home that these [soldiers] were and are people’s husbands, wives, fathers and sons and daughters,” she continued. “I came across this suitcase and just thought that it was really neat. At the same time, I also happened to be cleaning out some boxes at home and found a lot of old family pictures, many from my father’s time while serving in the military. He served, but never really talked about it until very late in his life. The photos and the bag combined to make me realize how many

things that happened in our everyday lives were a result of his experiences while serving.

That became the inspiration.”

The fact that, growing up, she had few memories of hearing her father talk about his wartime experiences weighed greatly on her. She felt that, later in life, him sharing his experiences opened up an understanding of why her father was who he was.

She is hoping to provide that same experience through her work. The hope is that her art will be a sounding board, opening up a window of communication for viewers.

“Just last Saturday, I had a man and his wife come into the studio to see the piece, and he started talking about his experiences,” Westphal said. “[The wife] just stood there with her mouth wide open and said to her husband, ‘You’ve never talked about this with me before.’ He replied, ‘I just hadn’t thought about talking about these things in years, and here are these pictures that very well could have been of people I served with.’”

Westphal aims to duplicate that experience with others

who may come to the reception Friday, as well as the entire run of the exhibit. She is hoping people can connect the violence of war with the experiences of the people left at home, and also wants to start a conversation that might heal the pain.

“We’re not talking about PTSD in regular conversation these days,” she said. “We’re talking about it when something violent happens usually.

We need to make conversations

like these part of the national conversation, and I hope my work will inspire that in the people who see it.”

The correspondence she used in the piece adds an extra measure of humanity.

“I’ve read every single letter,” she said. “It’s pretty incredible. The thing that hit me the most, besides the ones starting with, ‘If you are reading this...’ were the ones that were, ‘I can’t believe what is happen-

ing [in war],’ and, ‘I’m sorry I took home for granted’ … especially in letters to mothers.

The piece was created because I want to raise awareness. I feel that because soldiers have to go through so much and still carry on, come home, find a job, be a wife, a husband, a son … after that sort of experience, if one person finds solace in my work, it’s a price well paid.”

Exhibit highlights area weavers

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

Tucked into home studios, small shops and farmhouse additions in and around Sandpoint are the workspaces of members of an incredible handweaving community.

See a collection of a dozen handweavers at the art opening scheduled for Friday, Oct. 23 from 4-8 p.m. The fun takes place at the Idaho Pour Authority, 203 Cedar St. in Sandpoint.

A variety of usable items will be on display for your perusal, and all items are avail-

able for purchase for those of you who’d like to get a jump on your holiday shopping.

Some of the weavers feature items woven from the wool of animals they’ve raised, while others feature exotic yarns from around the world.

Some have been handweaving for years, while others are relatively new to the craft thanks to Blue Flag Handweaving, which offers instructional classes and study groups.

Check it out and support the handweaving community.

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New disc golf course flying high at grand opening

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

Twenty-five years ago, a small group of dedicated disc huckers began scheming to find a way to bring disc golf to Sandpoint. After several stops and starts, as well as a former location, the Baldfoot Disc Golf Course is the result of all that hard work. The new course is poised to open this weekend, taking its place among Sandpoint’s growing list of outdoor activities.

There will be a ribbon cutting to celebrate the grand opening at the Baldfoot Disc Golf Course on Saturday, Oct. 24 at 12 p.m. The park is located at 10076 Baldy Road, just past the railroad tracks when heading west.

Through the collaborative work between the City of Sandpoint, the Eureka Institute, the Sandpoint Disc Golf Association and a multitude of local businesses and individuals, the new course will cater to everyone from families to traveling professional players.

“It’s a shooter’s course,” said Rick Leader of the Sandpoint Disc Golf Association. “You don’t have to throw hard to score well, you just have to know how to fly that disc.”

Originally located on the University of Idaho Extension property on Boyer Avenue, the location moved to Baldy after organizers learned the University would displace a portion of the course with a driving range.

In August, 2013, the Eureka Institute entered into a license agreement with the city of Sandpoint to create a new and improved 18-hole course at the current location on Baldy Road. After countless hours of volunteer work, the Baldfoot Disc Golf Course became a reality in spring, 2014.

“It’s been an honor to work with the Sandpoint Disc Golf Association,” said Steve Holt, the executive director of the Eureka Institute. “Their efforts have been invaluable in making Baldfoot Disc Golf Course a reality. We wouldn’t be where we are today without them.”

The public can play the course anytime for a nominal $1 fee, which helps pay for course maintenance, new baskets, concrete tee boxes and signage.

“It’s pretty cool,” said Leader. “It talks a lot about our community to have this course here. People are willing to put their dollar in, and you see the results of it.”

Along with regular maintenance, the course helps generate money by offering hole sponsorships for area businesses. The money will go toward some 14 /

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/ October 22, 2015

Rick Leader (back) stands with Shannon Williamson and her children Emmerson and Finn Epphard. Photo courtesy of Eureka Institute.

future projects like the installation of a permanent vault toilet, a shelter for inclement weather and more picnic tables and benches.

In the months leading up to the grand opening this weekend, Leader said the course has seen over 1,500 users per month, quite a few coming from out of town.

“A lot of people are quite fond of the course regionally,” said Leader. “We’re getting a lot of out of town play, which is what we love.”

Along with open play, the Sandpoint Disc Golf Association usually schedules three or four tournaments per year, which have amateur as well as professional divisions.

“If you feel like you’re good enough to go for the money and win, you can go for the professional division,” said Leader. “At this course, if you can play scratch, you’ll be in the running. To win, it’ll take a six or seven under.”

To score under par at the course is indeed a difficult feat, as most of the holes are tree-lined and filled with obstacles that make the errant toss trouble.

Luckily, most of the hazards are searchable, so the loss of discs is minimal.

For families and children, the Baldfoot Course will also offer another option that will officially open at the grand opening on Saturday; a children’s

course. The holes will be shorter in distance and more open than the regular course.

“I’m excited about the kids’ course,” said Leader. “I want to see a ton of families out there at the opening to play the course.”

The Sandpoint Disc Golf Association will have plenty of extra discs on hand Saturday for kids to learn to throw.

They will even give an instructional clinic to teach the basics and the rules of the game for novices.

Players looking for discs to purchase are encouraged to buy them at Greasy Fingers, Outdoor Experience or Big 5 Sporting Goods in Sandpoint. Those interested in sponsorships, or volunteer opportunities can call Steve Holt at the Eureka Institute at 265-4000.

“Overall, development of property in such a way to create more open space improves our physical and psychological health,” said Holt. “It fortifies our communities and makes our cities and neighborhoods more appealing places to live and work. We are absolutely thrilled to offer this remarkable community amenity and can’t wait to see everyone at the grand opening.”

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STAGE & SCREEN Let’s do the Time Warp... again

By Kate McAlister Reader Contributor From the moment the actors walked down the aisle at the Panida, I was engaged.

For me, “The Rocky Horror Show” is indeed a time warp to another great theater memory at Idaho State University in 1975. It was a different world back then, but thankfully some things remain the same, like “The Rocky Horror Show.” The same quirky, crazy characters are all still in great form and brought to life by a very talented group of actors under the direction of Jesus Quintero.

If you are a “Rocky Horror” novice, I imagine this sounds a bit confusing, so I’ll give you the gist. A lovely, innocent couple, Brad (Michael Clarke), and Janet (Keely Gray), are forced to seek help after their car breaks down—of course in the middle of the night. The closest place with a light in the window is a creepy old castle complete with a pansexual mad scientist, Frank N. Furter (Jeremiah Bigley) and his devoted staff, Riff Raff (Eddie McDonnell), Magenta (Skye Palmer) and Columbia (Alex Cope). We can’t forget Dr. Frank N. Furter’s creation, the muscle-bound and very sexy Rocky Horror (Eric Bond).

Through the chaos and confusion, Brad and Janet’s love is put to the test as they partake in Dr. Furter’s evening of revelry.

So why did Quintero choose “The Rocky Horror Show,” especially considering he did the dark and amazing “Frankenstein” last Halloween?

“When I pick a show, I try to read where we are in terms of society, in terms of the community,” he said. “I don’t think theater should do political statements, but it is indeed a political act, in terms of it does have a relationship in society. So I thought what would be important for us to think and to talk about right now, and I thought ‘freedom’ would be a good topic. And when I thought of Halloween and Sandpoint, I wanted to have a show that gives the possibility of people to play, to experience. And then I started thinking we need a play that also brings experiential feelings to the audience.”

This play does just that thanks to some really great acting. I was especially impressed with Jeremiah Bigley as Dr. Frank N. Furter. I have worked with Bigley in “Mousetrap,” and the infa-

mous “Hunt for Pend Oreille Paddler” (you are welcome, Ben), but to see him in this part was spectacular. When he walks on the stage, he is Furter. His confidence is astounding con-sidering he’s wearing fishnets, a garter belt and a bustier. He absolutely nails the role: his voice, his movements, everything, gives Tim Curry a run for his money. I just might have a new favorite Furter.

Clarke and Gray play a convincing Brad and Janet and work well off one another. Their songs are sweet and memorable. Palmer (Magenta ) and Cope (Columbia ) are fun to watch, and I loved their voices.

Palmer and Bigley are two young people to keep an eye on. I see big things for them if they decide to make theater their career.

Last but not least, you really haven’t seen anything until you see Bond as Rocky Horror, complete with his gold lame short shorts and nothing else.

He is really fun to watch and brings a great energy to the part of Dr. Furter’s creation. Who knew Bond could sing?

Everyone will, after this performance.

Come experience a raucous, disorderly fun time you won’t forget, especially if you participate in the fun. Audience members are encouraged to wear costumes and interact when invited. This show uses the entire theater, including attendees, to make magic happen.

And while it’s been toned down a bit, it’s still rated R, according to the Panida website.

If you don’t have tickets, you should purchase them now before they sell out.

Performances are Oct. 29, 30 and 31.

For those attending the Friday perfor-

mance there will be a special surprise well worth the ticket price. Tickets can be purchased online at www.Panida.org and are $18.50 and $21.50. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m.

Brava!

saturday, OCT. 24 @ 7:30pm

andy hackbarth band

POAC presents Andy Hackbarth, who weaves the world of flamenco and classical guitar into an arsenal of upbeat, contemporary-folk songs

SUNday, OCT. 25 @ 3pm

Blaze n’ kelly in concert

Blaze and Kelly return to the Panida with guest Rochelle Smith Bbq begins at 2pm — come out to support the panida Theater

OCT. 29, 30 & 31 @ 8pm

“Rocky Horror Show” American laboratory theater presents the cult classic

Saturday, Nov. 7 @ 12pm - 8pm

Sandpoint Film Festival Saturday, Nov. 14 @ 7pm

warren miller’s “Chasing shadows” Wednesday, Nov. 18 @ 8pm head for the hills and trout steak revival two great bluegrass / americana bands in one night!

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The Straight Poop: The quest for dog-friendly businesses in North Idaho

By Drake the Dog Reader Columnist

Where am I going to take my humans today? They are whooshing and schussing along with me to The Alpine Shop.

I’m going on a play-date with my BWF (Best Woof Friend) Waylon, not to be confused with Mr. Jennings. Waylon lives with Brent and Nicole Eacret and their children Bode, 6, and Ty, 9. The Missus met Waylon—the official shop dog—last November when he was just a puppy. Now he is a full-grown Golden Retriever. Waylon helped her pick out her favorite ski pants. Paws up—she looks awesome in them!

Since we all live in a four-seasons outdoor paradise, I did the “shaka” when Nicole told me the store carries gear that combines fashion-forward and technical design. To prove it, she showed me doggie life vests, collars, packs and pads for paddleboards so I won’t fall off. I am asking Santa for doggie goggles and an all weather visor and parka for Christmas. Just as the postman came in to say hi, play Shaka-Paw, deliver the mail and offer Waylon and me treats, Nicole said she’d tell Santa about my holiday wish list.

So, I’m sure you fashion-forward pooches (and your humans) want to know: What’s trending this winter? The Missus will be layering up with the vintage sweater look (check out the line from Dale of Norway) and leggings—perfect for après ski. What else is hot? Ski and snowboard gear, accessories and heated boots! Brent shared that they will be carrying a new line of heated gloves this year.

These beauties will heat each finger and not just the palm of your hand!

Will they have my size? Heated paws are an all-day, all-terrain, grain-free treat! Waylon and I say, “Woof woof,” to heated gloves and boots!

Rick has been fitting ski boots for over 20 years.

He is finally talking the Mister (a Jean-Claude Killy wannabe) 16 /

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into new boots for the upcoming season. My ears perked up when he said, “The boots and skis can’t live here … they will be much happier living at your house.” Guess who is getting new boots and skis? Great twopaws-up selling skills, Rick!

The Eacret’s are animal lovers and appreciate the happiness we bring to our humans.

Since Sandpoint is a walking town, they encourage folks that are out for a walk with their well-behaved pooches to stop in and say hi, look at all of the cool gear, make friends, play with Waylon and shop.

The dog-friendly Alpine Shop will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in January 2016. Let’s get this party started and party all year!

So, here’s the Straight Poop when you take your humans to the downtown Alpine Shop: 1. Schedule a play date with Waylon in advance. His dance card fills up quickly, and he is only in the shop when he promises to mind his manners.

2. No chewing on the goods.

3. Give your humans a few “paws up” approvals when they try on the gear.

4. Bring your manners and keep them on when you are in the shop.

5. Share your holiday wish list items with the staff.

6. If you need to use the facilities, take the poop bag and go outside.

7. Don’t forget to visit The Alpine Shop at Schweitzer Mountain for the same great dog-friendly experience!

Look for the PAW sticker in the window for Dog Friendly businesses in Sandpoint.

Brent and Nicole Eacret, posing with Drake (left) and Waylon (right).

Queen B. Drag Show returns to the Eagles Club

By Andrew Sorg Reader Contributor

My feet felt uncomfortable and strained. Locked in the rhythm of the music surrounding me, I was forced into a role that I chose yet was not entirely ready for.

I thought to myself, “What would some of my friends say? Are they going to talk to me afterward? Will they accept me?”

These were just some of the thoughts going through my head the first and the last time I wore high heels at the Queen B Drag Show.

“Uncomfortable” is a great word to use. In the 21st century, we spend too much time in our comfort zone. If we don’t like a certain opinion, we quickly change the channel to something we are used to.

Facebook runs algorithms to make sure what we see on our “news feed” is always in

our comfort zone. It’s something both conservatives and liberals can be guilty of.

To hell with our comfort zones. Nothing good ever happened in this world from people staying in their comfort zones. Women and minorities died for the ability to vote and for basic human rights. Do you think they would have achieved these things if they stayed in their comfort zone? I learned this lesson on the Eagles dance floor as some of my best friends ran the best damn drag show the Inland Northwest has to offer.

North Idaho has a strong history of unconventional behavior, but I wasn’t surprised when some in the community protested the show and wrote the local paper saying it was immoral.

I didn’t mind. Those were just the words of people who have stayed too long in their

comfort zone.

I say now to the people of Sandpoint and the local community, “Break free from your comfort zone!”

Come out to the Queen B Drag Show and see some of the best stage performers in the community. You don’t have to come in costume.

All you need is a fun attitude and a stack of dollar bills for the tips. After the show, stick around and drink whiskey and beer at the bar, which is, I think, the best comfort zone North Idaho has to offer.

Check out the action Saturday, Oct. 24 at the Eagles Lodge, 1511 John Hudon Lane. The doors open at 8 p.m. and the show begins at 9 p.m. There will be a $6 cover. Call 263-3514 for more information.

MUSIC

This week’s RLW by Susan Drinkard

READ

Panida benefit features folk duo

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff Do you love the Panida Theater?

How about live music? Are you so fortunate to enjoy both (I’d imagine there’s got to be some significant overlap in that Venn diagram)?

No matter which category you fall into, you’ll want to mark Sunday, Oct. 25, on your calendar. The Panida’s Blazen Benefit is sure to leave you feeling artistically fulfilled and secure in the historic theater’s future. And if you happen to drop a little money on the event’s silent auction, well, that’s between you and your pocketbook.

No doubt the big draw of the night will be singer-songwriter Niccole Blaze and her bassist, Mo Kelly. Performing under the name Blaze & Kelly, the duo brings a contemporary folk-rock sound that proved a hit with Sandpoint audiences on their last visit. You’re just as likely to laugh as tap your foot, too, because the musicians are known for their sharp comedic banter both on and off the stage.

Drawing on influences ranging from Bonnie Raitt to the Indigo Girls, Blaze & Kelly had such a great time on their last visit to Sandpoint that they were happy to book another stop this month.

They’re excited to play a show for the benefit of the theater, and hopefully, Sandpoint will grace them with the same packed house they enjoyed last time. Rochelle Smith on mandolin will also be featured, so expect a rich night of music.

While you’re at it, consider carving out some money for the silent auction.

There’s a great line-up of items for this year’s autumn fundraiser, including airline tickets, a Pedro’s sweater, gift certificates, concert tickets and more.

According to Panida officials, the autumn fundraiser is crucial to the theater’s late-season operation. That’s why they’ve put a huge effort into making this a memorable night complete with great music, a no-host bar and hors d’oeuvres.

Tickets are $18 and are available from any board member, online at www. panida.org or at the door. Doors open at 2 p.m. and the concert at 3 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 25.

Two years ago this month, a beloved member of my book group, Sydne Van Horne, passed away. Sydne was an avid reader and director of the literacy program at the library.

One of Sydne’s favorite books was the funny Helen Simonson novel, “Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand.”

The 68-year-old protagonist lives honorably in the English countryside and enjoys his books and his “properly brewed tea.” He begins a friendship with a Pakistani shopkeeper, Mrs. Jasmina Ali. It’s a simple plot, but the wry humor of the major cracked me up. It’s a lighthearted read for November, a not-solight month in North Idaho, and it makes me think of Sydne.

LISTEN

Many longtime Sandpoint folks remember Johnny McShane. He was local theater director Deb McShane’s brother, and an amazing actor and director of local productions in his own right. Johnny died in 1999 in Hawaii.

Johnny once told me the best album ever made was Jennifer Warnes singing her friend Leonard Cohen’s songs on her 1991 “Famous Blue Raincoat” album. When I listened to it I almost cried, especially when I heard “Song of Bernadette” and “Bird on a Wire”: “Like a bird on a wire. Like a drunk in a midnight choir. I have tried in my way, to be free.”

Just like Johnny. Just like all of us.

Niccole Blaze and Mo Kelly are all smiles as usual. Photo courtesy of Blaze & Kelly.

FIDDLIN’ RED Music Store

Instruments Repairs Lessons

Crossword Solution

WATCH

In 2009, after two tours in Iraq where he was in three Hummer explosions, my nephew, who would have been 31 this week, died in Bonners Ferry.

Jonathan Pemp, who was born and raised in Bonners, was a movie buff who could recall lines from movies verbatim. One of his favorites was the 1980 slapstick comedy “Airplane.”

“Airplane” is a parody of disaster films and in one survey was voted second greatest comedy film of all time after Monty Python’s “Life of Brian,” another quirky film he liked. I can just hear Jonathan’s laughter now.

111 Church St., Spt, ID (208)946-6733 WWW.FIDDLINREDSIMPSON.COM October 22, 2015 /

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w o N & Then compiled by

Ben Olson

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

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

The northeast corner of Fifth Avenue and Poplar Street. The Spokane International tracks run in the foreground. The three houses are where Sandpoint Super Drug is located, and the house on the corner is where Mr. Sub is located. Sandpoint News-Bulletin photo.

c. 1950s

Copyright www.mirroreyes.com

CROSSWORD ACROSS

The same view today. Mr. Sub is on the right, and Sandpoint Super Drug is on the left. The railroad tracks are now gone. As you can see, quite a lot has changed since the first photograph taken in the 1950s.

2015

Woorf tdhe Week

defenestrate /dē fenə strāt/

[verb] 1. To throw someone out of a window.

2. Remove or dismiss from a position of authority.

“The obese man defenestrated his personal trainer after gaining twenty pounds of water weight.”

Corrections: Oofda. Last week I claimed no typos and was sent a polite letter essentially telling me I had my head somewhere dark and smelly. Rest assured, there were typos. Quite a few of them. Too many to list, in fact.

18 /

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1. At one time (archaic) 5. Found on most heads 9. Perishes 13. No 14. Assistants 16. Beige 17. A swinging barrier 18. Outline 19. Anagram of “Note” 20. Examines hastily 22. Abbreviated 24. A jaunty rhythm 26. Heavenly hunter 27. Nouveau-riche 30. Slogan 33. Ribbonlike flatworm 35. Ganders 37. In the past 38. Fastening 41. “Eureka!”

42. Cycle per second 45. Parishes 48. A lightweight cord 51. Lanai 52. Accustom 54. Diving bird 55. Outspoken conceit 59. Secretor 62. Out of control 63. Toboggans 65. Double-reed woodwind 66. Connects two points 67. Blots 68. Adhesive 69. Where the sun rises 70. Anagram of “Ties” 71. Cravings

DOWN

1. Terminates 2. A chess piece 3. Party pooper 4. Wood-eating insect 5. Possessed 6. Haughtiness 7. Potato state 8. Anagram of “Former” 9. The easing of tensions 10. Computer symbol 11. Sea eagle 12. Sought damages 15. Stripes 21. Shredded cabbage 23. Chinese mafia

25. Gait faster than a walk 27. Salt Lake state 28. Attendants of knights 29. Attempt 31. Sensible 32. Pale with fright 34. Central 36. Not difficult 39. Pen part 40. Objective 43. Bangle 44. Pizazz 46. Blockage 47. Environmental science 49. Cancels

Solution on page 17 50. Assembles 53. Grain disease 55. Sheltered spot 56. Dogfish 57. Charged particles 58. Abominable Snowman 60. Person, place or thing 61. D D D D 64. South southeast

Toward the end of the Stone Age I bet there was already a feeling that metal was just around the corner.

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