Your community Theater's annual membership meeting where you can become a member, vote on new board members, hear reports from the staff and get updated on all things Panida! Thursday, 6pm in the Main Theater
Lake Pend Oreille Reperatory Theatre presents Steel Magnolias
heartfelt story of the resilence of Southern women Fridays & Saturdays 7 pm, Sundays 2 pm matinees, doors 1 hour prior
Teton Gravity Research ski film Beyond The Fantasy come early for DJ Mancat and legendary prize giveaway! Wednesday, 7:30 pm, doors 6:30pm
Panida Presents Gaelic Storm
Multi-National high energy celtic band Wednesday 7:30pm doors at 6:30pm
300 North First Ave. Sandpoint, ID (208)263-9191 panida.org please
The week in random review
By Soncirey Mitchell Reader Staff
it’s avant-garde
Publisher Ben Olson has said many times that he’ll never sell Reader-branded T-shirts for a number of understandable reasons that I won’t get into. Since many people have asked for them, though, I propose a compromise that solves absolutely none of the problems he named but would entertain me to no end: Reader booty shorts. They’d be perfect for athletes, binge-watchers and Paris Hilton-types, and they’d come in two styles. The classic would simply feature “READER” printed across the butt. The avant-garde styles, however, would have a little “R” on the hip, leaving the seat open for a range of quotes inspired by (or taken directly from) the Reader office. Imagine one of the following branded across your posterior:
“Abandon all hope, ye who enter here.”
“Nobody will be remembered.”
“Longtime vocal goose advocate.”
“Ask me about my alcoholism.”
“I chew cough drops.”
“Flesh putrefies.”
Sandpoint’s seedy underbelly
My first job, given to me by my fellow elementary schoolers, could best be described as “mildly vexing witch.” I fully believed I had magical powers that were tied to nature and I talked about it enough that my classmates began to believe it, too. My magic was initially benign — I cast spells to alter storms or keep kids warm at recess — but, eventually, I started to receive special requests. Were they morally upstanding? No; that’s why they paid. My first job was generating a few snow days. It was a multi-step spell that involved me throwing snowballs into the air while chanting and dancing backward and then ordering my classmates to sleep with their pajamas inside out. Whether by magic or the fact that climate change had yet to destroy our winters, we did indeed get a snow day, which gave me my first taste of “real” power. (This did not work the second time, though after thoroughly interrogating my friends, I determined that one forgot about the PJs. Everyone agreed it was their fault.) One snow day gave me a pretty good track record, so my friends began offering me trinkets and treats to cast targeted spells against their enemies. My most memorable client gave me a lucky penny she’d found on the sidewalk and asked me to curse her father. I didn’t ask questions — the less I knew, the better. Her father was a clean-shaven man and she wanted him to sprout a pink-and-purple polka dot beard that would both embarrass and inconvenience him. “My magic comes from nature, so I can’t do unnatural things like that,” I remember telling her. She was very understanding. We settled on a spell that would make him regrow his beard every night so he had to spend countless mornings shaving it off again. It sounded absolutely diabolical to two 9-year-old girls who had no idea how beards worked. She saw her dad shaving the next morning and thanked me for my quick work, thus beginning my life of crime.
DEAR READERS,
If you have spent more than a minute outside this past week, you’ve probably noticed those little flying bugs that seem to always want to enter your open mouth. Way back in 2015 we wrote a story about these, which are called blue ash aphids. They’re relatively harmless and, believe it or not, they’re around all year long, though they’re only noticeable for a few days or weeks in fall. Most of the year they don’t have wings and they’re all born female. When they hatch in spring, the bugs begin feeding on the roots of fir trees, eventually giving birth to new aphids along the way. It’s only when the days grow shorter that they’re triggered to produce wings and some become males. Once the males show up, it’s time to swarm. The swarms you see (and sometimes accidentally ingest) are a mating frenzy that ends with females laying eggs in the bark of ash trees. From there, life goes on until next year.
The more you know...
–Ben Olson, publisher
READER
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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 soybased 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
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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
About the Cover
This week’s cover designed by Ben Olson.
BOCC changing of the guard
By Soncirey Mitchell Reader Staff
The Bonner County board of commissioners welcomed temporary-District 3 Commissioner Ron Korn to his first regular business meeting following his Sept. 30 swearing-in ceremony, filling the position left by former-Commissioner Luke Omodt, who tendered his resignation in late August.
Korn was one of three nominees submitted to Gov. Brad Little by the Bonner County Republican Central Committee to fill the three-month vacancy until the new board takes shape following the November election. As the winner of the Republican nomination for Dist. 3 in the May primary election, Korn was the BCRCC’s top choice, followed by Oden Precinct Committeeman Tom Cleveland and Hope Precinct Committeewoman Kim Peckham.
The governor approved Korn’s appointment Sept. 27, meaning he will face Independent candidate Glenn Lefevbre as the incumbent in the upcoming election.
“It’s been a long road. I’m the last person that I’d ever thought I’d see standing up here getting ready to take a government job — or having taken a government job — but what happens when we see things that we don’t like that are going on in our country, our county, our community, we need to get involved or be quiet,” said Korn after taking the oath of office.
Korn is a longtime member of the anti-government militia group Seven Bravo, formerly known as “Seven Bravo 3%,” which identified the group as a subsect of the Three Percenters, also known as “Threepers,” and drawing its name from the debunked claim that only 3% of colonists actively resisted British authority during the American Revolutionary War.
“I intend to continue membership with Seven Bravo. As far as what influences [that will have on] my decisions while on the board... I’ve said in the past, my decisions will be based on our state and national constitutions,” Korn told the Reader in an Oct. 2 email.
Labeled as an “extremist
group” by the Southern Poverty Law Center and Anti-Defamation League, Three Percenters believe it is the duty of an armed minority to protect U.S. freedoms from the federal government, which they label “tyrannical.”
Following Three Percenters’ participation in the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, Canada added the group to its terrorist watch list.
“I’ve been helping this community, and I just want to keep helping this community to the best of my ability, and I saw this as an opportunity to do so and give back and hopefully create a better place for all of us to live and our children and our grandchildren,” said Korn.
“I want to thank the community for supporting me and for putting me in this office. It is truly an honor that I respect,” Korn later told the Reader.
His first action in office was a motion to name Commissioner Asia Williams the board’s chair, which was seconded by Commissioner Steve Bradshaw and passed with Williams abstaining.
The following Oct. 1 business meeting proceeded smoothly through the two-page agenda before culminating in a series of five action items put forward by Williams, which generated the majority of the meeting’s conversation. These included discussions, but not decisions, on the idea of moving county public defenders from rented office space into the county administration building, as well as the need to settle a billing discrepancy with the Bonner County Fairgrounds.
The county currently pays the fair’s water and sewer bills out of its general fund, though, according to Williams, those payments have never been budgeted for.
“One of the biggest bills that really caught my attention was the September bill for their water [and] sewer. [It] was $12,331.74. They’re big bills.
I checked with auditing — the fair has money within their account to pay their bills moving forward,” said Williams.
The large sums stem from the fair’s need to irrigate the campus, which is technically county property; however, according to Williams, the county’s legal
team has stated that maintenance of that kind falls under the responsibilities of the Fair Board.
Fair Manager Mark Knapp requested that the board hold off on any decisions for the next three weeks to give the Fair Board enough time to alter its budget and determine whether it’s being billed correctly. According to Knapp, at least one of the bills was mislabeled — it actually belonged to the County Extension Office — and it remains unclear if the fair should be charged so steeply for sewer since the water is being used primarily for irrigation.
Board welcomes new member, chair; public comment expands
items attempted to dismantle a number of meeting rules established by Omodt during his time as chair, which she opposed from the beginning.
She first made a motion to remove the list of 11 standing rules, which outline the chair’s powers and how and when to facilitate discussion. The motion died without a second and so received no deliberation.
“There are no massive projects that are expected at the fairgrounds, obviously,” said Knapp. “We’re repairing things as we can, as we need, and this would — we just have to be able to have the time to look at the money and how this is going to impact us. What we need to do, what we need to fix and what buildings we could use for what events throughout the years.”
“I understand us being responsible for it, no problem,” he added.
The commissioners agreed to hold off on a decision until after the next Fair Board meeting, which is tentatively scheduled for the week of Oct. 14.
Williams’ final three action
Williams then proposed to strike the rule requiring Zoom attendees to sign up to give public comment before the start of the meeting. Neither Korn nor Bradshaw seconded that motion.
“These two [action items] did not have attached memorandums; therefore, I was not prepared to have a well-informed discussion or vote,” Korn later clarified to the Reader, reminding the public that Oct. 1 was only his second day in office.
“I pray the people will allow me the proper amount of time to get caught up to speed with my new position so that I am able to make well-informed decisions on their behalf,” he added.
For her final action item, Williams moved to allow public comment on every agendized item, as was standard practice before the current board took office.
“I have always liked that we had a voice, and part of our statute says that we’re supposed to encourage meaningful input from the community,” said Williams. Korn, who has advocated for increased public comment since the beginning of his bid for office, seconded the motion.
“So on my campaign trail I’ve always said that I think the public should have comment on each agendized item so I’d be proud to make a second on this one,” he said.
The motion passed unanimously.
“I believe that everyone would agree that the decorum for Tuesday’s meeting was excellent — something that hasn’t been seen in a long time,” Korn told the Reader
ID Dept. of Lands gathering comments on Idaho Club Trestle Creek project
Two-day public hearing set for Oct. 7-8
By Reader Staff
The deadline is approaching for public comment to the Idaho Department of Lands on the Idaho Club’s proposed Trestle Creek development project, which envisions an 88-slip commercial marina, breakwater, pedestrian bridge and parking lot, as well as seven houses with corresponding private docks near the mouth of the waterway. Comments are due to IDL
by Monday, Oct. 7, with submissions taken via email at navigablewaterways@idl.idaho. gov.
Meanwhile, an in-person, two-day public evidentiary hearing is scheduled on the project for Monday, Oct. 7 and Tuesday, Oct. 8 at the Sandpoint High School auditorium (410 S. Division Ave.).
The hearing, which is scheduled to run 5 p.m.-8 p.m. on both days, will be
conducted by the Office of Administrative Hearings and will focus on the application for encroachment and modifications made to the proposal since the initial application.
Public comment will also be taken on Oct. 7 and, should testimony run over the allotted time, more will be taken on Oct. 8.
Specific information regarding the application is available at: bit.ly/4enpeCB.
Bonner County Commissioners Asia Williams, left; Ron Korn, center; Steve Bradshaw, right. Photo by Soncirey Mitchell.
Constituents raise concerns about North Idaho state senator’s residency
Legislative Dist. 2 constituents ask Idaho Secretary of State to investigate Sen. Phil Hart, R-Kellogg
By Mia Maldonado Idaho Capital Sun
Constituents from Idaho’s Legislative District 2 have submitted a letter to the Idaho Secretary of State’s Office requesting an investigation into Republican state Sen. Phil Hart’s residency.
Hart, who is in his first term in the Idaho Senate — and has previously served four terms in the Idaho House — is registered at an address in Kellogg. He is running for reelection in the Nov. 5 general election against challenger Tom Hearn, a Saint Maries Democrat.
According to the letter sent by two constituents, Hart’s registered home has been under construction for several years and they believe it is unoccupied.
“Given the extended construction on the property and concerns raised by residents within our community, we ask that your office investigate whether Senator Hart is in fact residing within Legislative District 2 or whether he is residing outside the district,” the letter stated, signed by District 2 constituents Debra Rose and Bruce Koch.
On Oct. 1, the constituents with assistance from the Idaho Democratic Party, held a press conference outside of Hart’s home to discuss the issue. According to a press release from the Idaho Democratic Party, the constitu-
Dover to host Harvest Festival
By Reader Staff
The city of Dover will host a Harvest Festival from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5 at the Water Field, off Fourth Street and Railroad Spur.
There will be live music starting at 10 a.m. by the Double Shot Band and Buddy Tetreault the Guitar Guy.
Refreshments will be available, including breakfast sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, fresh lemonade, beer and wine.
A diverse selection of arts and craft vendors and information booths will be set up and there is still an opportunity for a coffee vendor — contact Dover City Hall if interested. Kids and adults can also partake in family activities and there will be logging demonstrations throughout the day. Parking will be limited.
ents and party claim to have evidence from a private investigator that suggests Hart does not live at his home, but at a Hayden office outside of his district leased by his business.
Hart could not be immediately reached for comment.
To run for state office, individuals must be a registered voter within their legislative district at least one year prior to the election. According to Idaho law, individuals who temporarily leave their home do not lose their residence. But if the individual moves to another area with the intention of making it their permanent home, they lose their residence under Idaho law.
ty was later sold in 2016 as a settlement for not paying years worth of federal income taxes, the Spokesman-Review reported.
Idaho Secretary of State’s spokesperson Chelsea Carattini confirmed that the office has received the request to review the issue.
The constituents in the letter said they represent “both sides of the political aisle — one a registered Democrat and the other a registered Republican,” and their goal is to maintain transparency and accountability.
This is not the first time Hart is at the center of controversy. In 1996, Hart illegally cut down trees from state school endowment land to complete his log home in Athol. The proper-
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.
Sen. Phil Hart, R-Kellogg. File photo.
Open primaries initiative backers plan North Idaho events
By Reader Staff
Idahoans for Open Primaries is bringing its message of support for Proposition 1 to communities throughout North Idaho, with guests including former-Sen. Joe Stegner, R-Lewiston, and former-Rep. Ed Morse, R-Hayden, as well as Veterans for Idaho Voters members Christine Wood and Gray Henderson, coming to Bonners Ferry, Sandpoint and Orofino.
Following events earlier in the week in Moscow and Coeur d’Alene, the “yes” on Prop. 1 group will appear at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 3 at the Pearl Theater in Bonners Ferry (7160 Ash St.), then the Memorial Community Center in Hope (415 Wellington Place) at 3 p.m. and Sandpoint High School (410 S. Division St.) at 7 p.m.
Following that will be an appearance Friday, Oct. 4 at the VFW hall in Orofino (330 Michigan Ave.), before further events in Lewiston, McCall and Council through the rest of the week. Calling it an “historic opportunity to vote ‘yes’ on Prop. 1 and fix Idaho’s broken closed-primary election system,” Idahoans for Open Primaries spokesperson and Reclaim Idaho co-founder Luke Mayville posted on Facebook the
“barnstorming” tour will include “doorknocks and other events along the way.”
The Open Primaries Initiative on the Tuesday, Nov. 5 ballot would change Idaho’s current primary election system by opening it to voters of all political affiliations, followed by a ranked-choice voting method and instant runoff in the general election.
Proponents argue that it will increase voter participation and ensure that winning candidates have broadbased support independent of party membership, while opponents say it would mean the end of political parties, be unnecessarily complicated, too expensive and threaten election integrity.
The citizens’ initiative made it onto the November 2024 ballot by surpassing the threshold of 62,895 valid signatures from Idaho voters.
Members of the Idahoans for Open Primaries coalition include Veterans for Idaho Voters, the Idaho Chapter of Mormon Women for Ethical Government, North Idaho Women, the Hope Coalition, Reclaim Idaho and Republicans for Open Primaries. The Idaho Republican Party has officially announced its opposition to the initiative.
For more information, visit yesforopenprimaries.com.
Public meeting to feature updates on Albeni Falls Dam gate replacement project
By Reader Staff
Representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will be on hand Monday, Oct. 7 for a public meeting covering topics including dam operations and the latest updates on the Albeni Falls Dam spillway gate repair and replacement project.
The meeting is scheduled to run from 6-8 p.m. at the Ponderay Events Center (401 Bonner Mall Way, in Ponderay).
Officials have been working since April to ensure the safe functioning of Albeni Falls Dam, after one of its spillway gates was found to be suffering from structural damage due to the delamination of steel used in the construction of the gate in the 1950s.
The Corps removed the faulty gate, which resulted in lessened output at the dam and a subsequent delay in raising the lake to its full summer pool level of 2,062.5 feet.
Officials undertook a further analysis of the other 10 spillway gates — which were all manufactured at the same time — and suspect that they, too, have the
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:
ProPublica recently documented U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken’s willful disregard for his own agency’s findings that Israel has been deliberately creating famine in Gaza. Ignoring the findings is in defiance of American law regulating arms sales to human rights abusers.
The potentially deadly synthetic opioids called nitazenes are now on the world stage. According to The Guardian, with the Taliban’s crackdown on Afghanistan’s poppy production, there’s a heroin shortage on the illicit drug market, which nitazenes may fill.
Vice-President Kamala Harris said Sept. 29 that, if elected president, she would double the resources for the U.S. Department of Justice to further cut the flow of fentanyl into the U.S., Newsweek reported. According to CNN, fellow-candidate Donald Trump falsely stated that Harris wants to legalize fentanyl “right away.”
Trump recently promised to lower grocery prices by restricting food imports and putting in place tariffs — a plan that the conservative Cato Institute called “deranged.” “If you wish grocery stores were more expensive and offered less variety, then you’ll love his tariff proposal,” Cato writers were quoted in The Atlantic.
same steel defect and will need to be replaced.
“At this time, it’s not known exactly how long each gate will take to manufacture,” Corps Public Affairs Specialist Nicole Celestine told the Reader in a Sept. 4 email.
Meanwhile, the seasonal drawdown of Lake Pend Oreille began in late September and will continue until it reaches the winter target elevation of 2,051-2,051.5 feet no later than Nov. 15. The lake will hold at that level until the completion of kokanee fish spawning, which typically ends in late December.
Those unable to attend the Oct. 7 meeting in person are invited to participate online at microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting. The meeting ID is 993 794 098 670, with passcode AxQaV8. Alternately, participants may dial in at 1-601-262-2433, with the phone conference ID 643 7463#
To receive email notifications for Albeni Falls Dam outflow changes and short-term lake elevation projections, email uppercolumbiawm@usace.army.mil and request to be added.
CBS reported that the damage caused in 2022 by Hurricane Ian in Florida was made worse by insurance companies short-changing policy holders. A whistleblower recalled assessing one home as needing $231,368 for repairs, though the homeowners received a mere $15,000. The adjuster learned many claims had been altered, but his signature remained to make it appear to be a legitimate claim.
The recent damage from Hurricane Helene was summed up by President Joe Biden as “stunning.” Before the storm even moved in last week, the Biden administration arranged for federal resources to be ready, various media reported.
Virginia Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin said he was “incredibly appreciative of the [federal] rapid response and cooperation.” Georgia Republican Gov. Brian Kemp was told by Biden to “call him directly” if he needs anything more. South Carolina Republican Gov. Henry McMaster said the federal assistance “is helping us
By Lorraine H. Marie Reader Columnist
well, they’re embedded with us.”
The deadly swathe of destruction cut by Hurricane Helene across North and South Carolina, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee and Virginia is expected to cost a total of between $95 billion and $110 billion, according to a preliminary estimate from AccuWeather.
The massive storm was made worse by global heating, generated from warmer-than-normal Gulf waters. Hurricanes used to primarily cause damage from high winds; but, The Guardian reported, FEMA has found that climate change has resulted in hurricane’s causing more water damage.
Expenses from climate change are expected to be $38 trillion annually by 2050, Reuters reported. That includes damage to farming, infrastructure, productivity and health. North Carolina and Florida leaders have dragged their feet on climate change. In 2012, North Carolina “outlawed” climate change by banning the use of climate science in formulating coastal policies. This year, Florida erased most references to climate change from state law.
Currently, $1 trillion represents 1% of the world’s GDP, according to the book How to Save the World for Just a Trillion Dollars: The Ten Biggest Problems We Can Actually Fix, by Rowan Hooper. Meanwhile, the U.S. spends $1 trillion on the military every 18 months. In 2008, lawmakers found $4.5 trillion to ease the U.S. financial crash; and, in 2020, Congress approved $2.2 trillion for mitigating the impacts of COVID-19.
Hooper says the removal of fossil fuel subsidies alone would cut global emissions by 25% and slash premature pollution deaths by 50%. According to the IMF, oil companies worldwide receive $5.4 trillion in subsidies every year. In the U.S., that figure totals $646 billion.
Some conservative interests oppose addressing climate change: the authors of the notorious Project 2025 decry what they call the “climate change alarm industry,” but working on climate change had been good for the economy, which historian Heather C. Richardson points out is “booming” in part due to climate change initiatives begun under the Inflation Reduction Act.
Blast from the past: In the Middle Ages punishment for theft included cutting off hands. It did not create a theft-free society. The practice today is found in a handful of non-democratic countries.
What’s on the general election ballot?
A quick guide to what you’ll see at the ballot box
By Ben Olson Reader Staff
With the 2024 general election around the corner, it’s important to be as informed as possible before Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Here’s a quick rundown of everything you’ll see on the ballot, as well as what you need to know about voting.
Voting information Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5 and the polling places will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. In Bonner County, early voting starts on Monday, Oct. 21 and runs Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. the two weeks before Election Day, ending at 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 1. In Boundary County, instead of early voting they have in-person absentee ballots available from Wednesday, Sept. 25 until 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 1.
To sign up for early voting or make a request for an absentee ballot, the easiest method is to visit idahovotes. gov, but voters may also contact local election offices. Absentee ballots must be requested by Friday, Oct. 25.
“If you come to our office or mail in a request for an absentee ballot, we verify signatures then, and we verify the signatures again when we get them back,” Bonner County Clerk Michael Rosedale told the Reader. “That’s to make sure somebody didn’t intercept it. You can always drop it off at the elections office — we have a drop box under a camera in the foyer.”
Rosedale urged voters not to delay voting by absentee ballot.
“You can request an absentee ballot right now,” he
said. “If you know who you’re going to vote for, get those back to us. Don’t wait. Every election we get ballots back the days following the election because they got hung up in the mail or received on Election Day after 8 p.m.”
Register to vote
For those not currently registered to vote, visit voteidaho.gov to register or update voter registration no later than Friday, Oct. 11 at 5 p.m. PST. This is good for first-time voters as well as those who have moved, changed their names or haven’t voted recently.
Party vs. unaffiliated
No matter with which political party voters are registered, each ballot will look the same. However, there are 44 different ballots depending on what specific part of the voting district in which you live.
“The only time it matters what party you are in is in even-year primaries,”
Rosedale said. “All other elections, in those districts, everyone gets the same ballot.”
For example, there may be levies on the ballot for some voting districts, but not on ballots for voters in other districts.
H.J.R. 5 — Amendment to Idaho Constitution
On the ballot this November will be House Joint Resolution 5, a proposed amendment to the Idaho Constitution that relates to the qualifications of electors. The exact language of the bill is as follows:
“Shall Section 2, Article VI of the Constitution of the State of Idaho be amended to provide that individuals who are not citizens of the United States may not be qualified electors in any election held
within the state of Idaho?”
The proposed amendment would add language to Section 2, Article VI of the Idaho Constitution, which currently reads, “[E]very male or female citizen of the United States, eighteen years old, who has resided in this state, and in the county where he or she offers to vote for the period provided by law, if registered as provided by law, is a qualified elector.”
Supporters of H.J.R. 5 claim the amendment is needed to clarify that U.S. citizenship is a requirement for eligibility to vote in Idaho elections because current language does not expressly prohibit noncitizens from voting. Opponents of H.J.R. 5 claim the amendment is unnecessary because U.S. citizenship is currently required by law for participating in Idaho elections, and the Idaho secretary of state requires citizenship and proof of residency with respect to individuals who register to vote.
Proposition 1: Idaho Open Primaries Initiative
This measure will replace voter selection of party nominees with a top-four primary and will require a rankedchoice voting system for general elections.
If enacted by a simple majority of Idaho voters, the initiative would abolish Idaho’s party primaries, instead creating a system in which all candidates participate in a top-four primary system where voters may vote on all candidates. The top four vote-earners for each office would advance to the general election. It would also establish a ranked-choice voting system for the general election, where voters would rank candidates on the ballot in order of
preference, but need not rank every candidate.
The votes are counted in successive rounds and the candidate receiving the fewest votes in each round is eliminated. Votes for eliminated candidates will transfer to the voter’s next highest ranked active candidate. The candidate with the most votes in the final round wins the race.
For a comprehensive pro and con argument for Proposition 1, visit idahovotes.gov or see Pages 5-6 of the Idaho Voters’ Pamphlet.
City of Sandpoint local option tax
The city of Sandpoint is seeking a local option non-property 1% city sales tax, which would be implemented Jan. 1, 2025 through Dec. 31, 2049. The tax will be applicable to all sales, except occupancy sales subject to taxation under Chapter 36 of Title 63 of Idaho Code.
Revenue from the LOT will be dedicated to:
a.Street pavement, sealing, widening, reconstruction, maintenance and associated stormwater infrastructure;
b.Sidewalk/pathway improvements, including maintenance and reconstruction and extensions to provide connectivity and increase ADA accessibility and safety;
c.Graveling and grading of alleyways;
d.Property tax relief to Sandpoint property owners (any excess revenue received will be placed in a designated property tax relief fund);
e.Administrative costs and direct costs to collect and enforce the tax.
City of Ponderay LOT
The city of Ponderay is
seeking a 1% consumption tax on all sales except hotels/ motels and sales receipts that exceed $999.99 for a period of 10 years.
Revenue from this LOT will be used for the following projects:
a.Continued development of safe public access to Lake Pend Oreille and the Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail, including a railroad underpass;
b.Continued construction at the Field of Dreams recreational facility;
c.Creation of an endowment fund designed to maintain the Field of Dreams facilities;
d.Designating $500,000 in addition to the existing street budget for necessary improvements, maintenance, and new facilities for street and stormwater projects;
e.Administrative costs.
Lake Pend Oreille School District No. 83 levy
LPOSD No. 83 is requesting a total annual levy amount of $1,130,060 for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2026. The estimated annual cost to the taxpayers on the proposed levy is a tax of $23 per $100,000 of taxable assessed value per year. For more information, please visit sd83.org.
Spirit Lake Fire District levy
The Spirit Lake Fire Protection District is vying for a permanent override tax levy to increase its property tax budget and levy beyond the amount provided for under Idaho Code. The levy amount requested is $477,000 commencing Oct. 1, 2025, which shall be permanently added to the base < see BALLOT, Page 9 >
Bouquets:
• My soul was full after the Sept. 28 Deep Roots songwriter showcase at The Hive. There are a bunch of people who deserve Bouquets for this show. First, Kevin Dorin stepped up and put this whole thing together, paid everyone and even made a video recording available for those who attended the show. The Hive’s Mack Deibel also deserves a big pat on the back for offering this excellent venue space. All the local songwriters made me proud to live here. Justin Landis provided his usual top-notch musical support and, finally, special thanks to the more than 125 people who showed up to listen to original local music. It really meant a lot to all the songwriters and organizers. Stay tuned for the next one!
GUEST SUBMISSION:
• “Kudos to the parents who donated the use of their yellow canopies this summer at the Concrete Lake skateboard park at Travers. The story I heard is that 5-year-old Asher (a scooter rider) would go to the park in the morning with his mom because of the heat. I hear he’s a daredevil and pretty darn good on the scooter. When he complained about the heat, his mom came back the next day with two yellow canopies and then supervised Asher and his buddies erecting the shade structure. The next day, Asher’s dad showed up with two new wooden benches and he then supervised Asher and his buddies putting them together. Asher’s unpermitted and unprotected canopies and benches provided shade all summer to kids who wanted to just be active. Kudos to the city for turning a blind eye by allowing this luxury, as they could have been stolen or vandalized. They’ve endured the test proving that Sandpoint is a great safe small town with moral values.”
— By Mike Miller
•Sorry, no Barbs this week.
‘How can any veteran ... support Donald Trump?’...
Dear editor,
An Arlington National Cemetery employee was shoved by Trump staffers to exploit a solemn ceremony for propaganda. My aunt, an “Arlington lady” for 34 years, knows the assaulted woman. Protocol is explained beforehand and strictly followed.
Trump gave the Presidential Medal of Freedom to someone who gave him $170 million, saying The “civilian version” of the Congressional Medal of Honor is “actually much better because everyone that gets [it is] … either in very bad shape because they’ve been hit so many times by bullets or they’re dead.”
Trump belittled a slain Gold Star soldier’s parents because they’re Muslim and called POW John McCain “not a war hero. I like people who were not captured.”
Trump refused to visit AisneMarne American Cemetery to honor unknown American soldiers because he “feared his hair would become disheveled in the rain.” John Kelly, White House COS quotes Trump saying the soldiers in the cemetery were “losers and suckers.”
Trump paid some doctor to say he was unfit for duty. His bone spurs don’t keep him off the golf course.
VoteVets, a veterans’ PAC, claimed in a statement that Trump “hates veterans and their sacrifice, because he looks so small in comparison to them.”
Betty Gardner Priest River
‘Stop
the drama’ at the BOCC…
Dear editor, If, like me, you want to see a change in our government, please know that there are quite a few good choices on our local ballot this fall. At the county level, our commissioners can only be described as a dumpster fire, where one commissioner actually even has a restraining order against a colleague.
I fear continuing to elect the Republicans will only lead to more of the same. I’ll be voting for Steve Johnson and Glenn Lefebvre to fill those seats and stop the drama. For our state legislators, we already fired Scott Herndon in the primary — well done North Idaho! Now we can continue to elect community-minded legislators who will support our doctors,
libraries and schools by voting for Karen Matthee and Kathryn Larson to represent us in Boise.
For long-term help, I’ll be voting for Proposition 1 to allow all Idahoans to vote in publicly funded elections and ensure winners have the support of the majority of the voters.
Rick Price Sagle
Kathryn Larson will chart a path forward for Dist. 1…
Dear editor,
I once asked a friend to describe in one word his experience of living his whole life in Sandpoint. He grinned. “Lucky,” he said.
Indeed. Aren’t we all, wherever we live in the northern counties. But maintaining our quality of life cannot depend on luck. We have witnessed and endured the influence of the Idaho Freedom Foundation and out-of-state PACs through legislators like Scott Herndon. Our hospital, doctors, women and libraries have suffered. Our public lands and schools are at risk.
Kathryn Larson, candidate for Idaho House of Representatives, Seat 1B, uses two-way vision: lenses that reveal the source of our challenges and a path forward to a viable solution that won’t end up in a lawsuit — or otherwise cost citizens their hard-earned money.
Unlike bought-and-paid-for legislators, she will hear from you and work for you.
If you love your independence and want to live your life free from restrictive and unnecessary laws, don’t rely on luck. Please vote for Kathryn Larson.
Lexie de Fremery Sandpoint
Vote for candidates who believe in serving constituents…
Dear editor,
I’ve lived here for five decades, and have voted for Republicans, Democrats and Independents. I choose candidates based on their integrity, qualifications and dedication to public service.
When forced to declare a party, I registered Republican in order to vote in primaries. Now, the GOP has drifted from my values into a world of cruel policies and ideological positions that do not represent the will of the majority of the citizens.
My primary concern is health care. As a woman, I find the extreme attack on reproductive care to be destructive and dangerous, causing
doctors to leave the state and people with life-threatening conditions to have to go elsewhere for care.
But the threat does not stop there. Our “representatives” also want to restrict Medicaid and eliminate the Affordable Care Act. Even Medicare is facing reduced benefits if we elect Republicans for federal offices. They want to return to a time when insurance companies could deny care because of pre-existing conditions and could raise insurance premiums to the point of unaffordability.
Therefore, this election I will vote for Democrats, except for Jim Woodward and Steve Johnson, both of whom believe in serving their constituents.
Ann Warwick Sandpoint
‘Idahoans first’…
I’m a proud Democrat. I have lived in Idaho for over 50 years and in Bonner County for the past 38 years. Democrats live here and have for generations. We live here because we love it here.
In all these years, I have never met a Democrat who was a communist, socialist or who hated our country. We are teachers, janitors, nurses and business owners. We raise our families and volunteer in our community. Democrats are just people trying to do our best to make life better for our families and for our community.
Karen Matthee, Kathryn Larson and Steve Johnson are Democrats offering to serve our community as elected officials. Each is well qualified and wants to help make life better for all of us because they know that we are all connected.
I hope you will join me in attending the forum on Oct. 15 at the SHS auditorium at 5:30 p.m. Listen and vote for the person who you feel will best represent you and your family, rather than just for the letter behind their name. We are, after all, Idahoans first.
Linda Larson Sandpoint
Weary of broken promises by Republican legislators…
Dear editor, Time has come to speak up about issues that affect living in the great state of Idaho. As a resident for 46 years, I’ve experienced quite a few changes. I suggest residents study the issues that are impacting all of us. I support Legislative District
1A House candidate Karen Matthee for her background in running a newspaper in a conservative town in Washington and earning the community support by tackling the issues people care most about.
I’m weary of the broken promises Republicans use to avoid lowering my taxes. They don’t seem to care that property taxes are assessed higher than commercial properties. I don’t want to be forced to sell my home to keep up with taxes. Karen Matthee supports increasing the homeowners’ property exemption, lowering our taxes and using a standard table making it fair and equitable for residents. Karen Matthee supports increasing the grocery tax exemption helping the lower income population.
Housing costs are beyond the average worker’s reach. I’ve heard the complaint that people don’t want to work. Most workers cannot pay for their housing while working two jobs.
I’m voting for Karen because her experience supports the path to an equitable balance in our community.
Andrea Berliner Sandpoint
Reasons to vote for Karen Matthee for Dist. 1A House…
Dear editor, She will use her extensive experience to strongly represent bipartisan constituents and unify policymakers for success passing initiatives important to all North Idaho voters. Karen understands adversity and her history as a journalist makes her a great candidate to work hard and overcome political hurdles. I am particularly interested in her plans to:
•Lower the cost of living by addressing increasing property taxes.
•“Bring our Doctors Back.” I work in health care and the lack of women’s health services is affecting the future of our community.
•Support public schools and libraries. I was educated in public school and believe all Americans deserve access to quality public education. Private education should be funded privately. Teachers are a very important part of the fabric of our community.
I believe it is high time that our public servants demonstrate the work ethic and tenacity it takes to survive as a middle-class American. If we do not focus on compromise, communication and service, our communities will continue to suffer and decline. I was impressed when
< BALLOT, con’t from Page 7 >
budget. For more information, visit spiritlakefire.com.
Timberlake Lake Fire District levy
The Timberlake Lake Fire Protection District is seeking a permanent override levy in the amount of $700,000 per year to increase its budget. If successful, this levy would commence with the fiscal year 2026 and which shall be established as the base budget. For more information, visit timberlakefire.com.
Joint School District No. 272 levy
The Joint School District No. 272 is seeking a sup-
plemental levy for a total of $9,520,000 per year for two years, commencing July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2027. The estimated average annual cost of the taxpayer on the proposed levy is $105 per $100,000 of taxable assessed value, per year. For more information, see sd272.org.
Presidential candidates
There are nine presidential candidates on the general election ballot: Shiva Ayyadurai (Independent), Claudia De La Cruz (Independent), Kamala D. Harris (Democratic), Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. (Independent — dropped out of the race), Chase Oliver
< LTE, con’t from Page 8 > attacks. Vote yes for Proposition 1.
I was lucky enough to see Karen speak publicly and I believe she possesses the tenacity and experience we need for a new generation of politics in Idaho.
Jessica Robinson Sandpoint
Prop. 1 will help take the negativity out of Idaho political campaigns…
Dear editor,
If you are tired of negative attack campaigning in Idaho, vote yes on Proposition 1.
Proposition 1 — called “open primaries,” if voters approve — means all registered voters in May choose among all political candidates, regardless of political party. Many elections are decided in the Primary, but today few voters can participate. This change will encourage voter turnout, not make it more difficult.
The second part of Proposition 1 is instant runoff, or ranked-choice voting, used today in Maine and Alaska. The top four candidates for each office are on the November ballot. If they want, voters can rank their choices, first through fourth.
When the ballots are counted, if any candidate gets 50%+1 of the vote, the race is decided. If nobody gets 50%+1, a second round begins. The candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated. Voters who chose that person now have their second choices automatically voted. This may be sufficient to declare a winner; but, if not, the process repeats.
One very positive outcome is that candidates want to be the second choice of those voting for their opponents, and therefore concentrate on explaining their policies, rather than launching personal
(Libertarian), Joel Skousen (Constitution), Jill Stein (Independent), Randall Terry (Independent) and Donald J. Trump (Republican).
U.S. Representative District 1
There are four candidates for District 1 U.S. Representative, including Russ Fulcher (Republican), Brendan J. Gomez (Constitution), Matt Loesby (Libertarian) and Kaylee Peterson (Democratic).
State Senator District 1
There are two candidates to represent District 1 in the Idaho State Senate, including Daniel “Dan” Rose (Independent) and Jim Woodward (Republican).
You can’t put a price on the freedom to vote…
Molly O’Reilly Sandpoint
Prop. 1 will ensure winning candidates have broad support…
Dear editor,
I collected signatures to get Proposition 1 on the ballot. Like me, you may have been frustrated if you received a ballot in the primary with only a few nonpartisan races on it; or noticed the election is basically over after the primary, as party bosses have more power than the voters; or noticed a candidate was elected with support from a small percentage of the electorate.
Prop. 1 aims to correct these issues with an open primary and general election with ranked-choice voting.
Every voter would select their favorite from the same primary ballot including all the candidates. The top-four vote-getters of each race would advance to the general election, in which you vote for your chosen candidate. If you have a second or third choice, you can indicate that on the ranked-choice ballot.
The candidate who gets over 50% wins. If no candidate gets over 50% in the first round, there are successive rounds of distributing the votes of the candidate with the least votes who is dropped. This instant runoff continues until a winner emerges with over 50%, ensuring the victor has broad support, which is just what we all want.
Please vote “yes” on Prop. 1.
Judy Butler Hope
State Representative District 1 Seat A
There are two candidates for this office, including Karen Matthee (Democratic) and Mark Sauter (Republican).
State Representative District 1 Seat B
There are two candidates for this office, with Kathryn Larson (Democratic) facing Cornel Rasor (Republican).
Bonner County Commissioner District 1 (two-year term)
Two candidates face off for the District 1 commissioner seat, including Brian Domke (Republican) and Steve Johnson (Democratic).
women in a post-Roe world. Karen impressed me with her intelligence and concern for women’s health.
Dear editor,
The Oct. 1 edition of the Idaho Capital Sun stated that the Idaho House GOP opposes the Open Primary Initiative and may appeal or amend it if it passes. If the legislators block or repeal the initiative it would be going against the will of Idahoans and again a large group of Idaho voters would be blocked from voting in primary elections. They would be prevented from having a say in who governs them; they would be prevented from voting in an election even though they pay for these elections.
We must stop this extremism in Idaho. We must stop the extremists from taking away our freedoms — the freedom to vote who will govern you, a women’s control of her body, the freedom to go into a library and read any book. As it stands now “a slim majority of primary elections voters are able to decide who holds power in the state,” as noted in the Sun.
The cost of potentially replacing voting equipment is of little consequence. You cannot put a price tag on the freedom to vote, who will represent you and who will govern you.
Please vote for Proposition 1 — open primary and ranked-choice voting.
Beth Allen Sandpoint
Matthee is passionate about protecting women’s health…
Dear editor,
I’m writing in support of Karen Matthee for the Idaho House 1A seat.
I met Karen last year at a meeting of the Pro-Voice Project, which advocates for the rights of
Bonner County Commissioner District 3 (4-year term)
Two candidates will be on the ballot for the District 3 commissioner seat, including Ron Korn (Republican) and Glenn Lefebvre (Independent).
Bonner County Sheriff Daryl Wheeler (Republican) is running unopposed on the ballot.
Bonner County Assessor Dennis Engelhardt (Republican) is running unopposed on the ballot.
Bonner County Assessor Louis Marshall (Republican) is running unopposed on the ballot.
After Roe vs Wade was overturned, Idaho’s abortion laws were among the strictest in the country. Women are forced to carry dangerous or non-viable pregnancies to term. Current restrictions prevent the ability to provide adequate medical care. Physicians who perform an abortion for any reason commit a felony with possible prison time and loss of medical licensure.
Bonner General Hospital closed its labor-and-delivery facilities and many OB-GYN physicians have left the area for states with less restrictive laws.The departure of physicians has strained the medical system and compromised women’s reproductive freedom. There are also implications for non-pregnant women who require gynecological care.
Karen is passionate about bringing our doctors back to protect the health of women and all Idahoans. As a writer and journalist, she will be an excellent fact-checker and will provide the leadership necessary to find solutions.
Please join me and vote for Karen Matthee on Nov. 5.
Ann Berntsen Sandpoint
If you get to know Kathryn Larson, you’ll vote for her for House Seat 1B…
Dear editor, District 1 has the opportunity to elect Kathryn Larson, a go-getter ready to help us live our best lives. Kathryn listens and connects to her constituents. Her experiences make her capable of helping every Idahoan. A college graduate, leader who designed/developed/sold/deliv-
ered corporate training, co-founded an internationally-awarded technology company, led U.S. operations for a global company and a mother/ grandmother, lucky us, she wants to perform her civic duty and be a servant leader in House Seat 1B.
Three concepts direct Kathryn’s platform: local focus, freedom and an economy that works for all. She plans to fund schools, protect our libraries and provide economic opportunities for our youths. She will support affordable, accessible health care for all, ensuring viability for rural providers. She will also work to support the investment that is required for our aging infrastructure systems.
If you have the opportunity to meet Kathryn, talk with her (she also listens), find out about her ideals and you will vote for her. She is approachable, friendly and open to discuss your concerns. Listen to forums, visit kathrynlarsonforidaho.com and find an opportunity to meet her.
I heartily endorse Kathryn Larson for Idaho House Seat 1B.
Ann Giantvalley Sandpoint
The word limit for letters to the editor has been adjusted to 200 words until the general election on Nov. 5. Submit to letters@sandpointreader.com. No libelous statements or excessive profanity. Trolls will be ignored. Please elevate the conversation.
Science: Mad about
standardize the signs, which is believed to account for the smaller, more compact signs hanging outside modern pubs.
By Brenden Bobby Reader Columnist
Anywhere you travel — from New York, U.S. to York, U.K. — you can expect a uniform taste from two of the same brands of alcoholic brew. Modern brewing is a carefully controlled process that is carefully monitored to maintain uniformity. Different batches of beer with different ingredients may taste different, but you can always expect a can of Pabst to taste the same. This was not common throughout most of human history. In many cases, two batches from the same brewer may taste completely different from one another. What changed to bring uniformity and consistency to brewing?
Despite complete ignorance of the idea of the microbiome, medieval brewers were generally pretty good at what they did. Perhaps through centuries of trial and error, brewers figured out how to manipulate yeast and ingredients to create something palatable without worrying about invisible organisms. These organisms existing and evolving independently from one another altered the taste of brew from one cask to the next.
all know that one guy who won’t shut up about brewing his own pilsners in his garage, but there was nothing unique about that in medieval households. In fact, there was a special punishment for people who botched their brew and shared it with their friends.
The brewer and disseminator of substandard beer would be forced to sit outside for a full day to be shamed by everyone who passed by their home. Even those who had not imbibed the offending tipple were encouraged to participate in the punishment, as a particularly bad brew carried the potential to kill.
As a final tidbit of medieval brew-related information, “beer” as we would know it was extremely rare until much later in English history. The defining characteristic of beer is the inclusion of hops, which didn’t thrive in the cold, damp English countryside. The crop did grow more readily in places like Germany,
Spain and Italy, though wine grapes were found to be far more profitable in those regions than bitter hops. Ale was the preferred brew of medieval England. A common misconception of the medieval period was that all water was too tainted to drink, and thus people drank ale and beer instead. This may have been true in densely populated London, but most folks in rural communities just enjoyed drinking alcohol. Honestly, if you worked manual labor for every sunlit hour of the day, could you blame them? Stay curious, 7B.
medieval brewing Random Corner
Stainless steel, mostly. At its most basic level, stainless steel is steel that has been mixed with chromium; when the chromium oxidizes, it creates a layer that locks in everything beneath it while remaining relatively smooth on the surface, unlike iron oxide rust that chips and flakes and leaves plenty of pockets for bacteria and other gunk to collect. This self-healing property of stainless steel makes it incredibly easy to clean and sanitize, which is the reason it’s used in so many kitchens and breweries today. Spray it down with pressurized water, some soap or even a little scrub, and you’re essentially good to go. Medieval brewers had no access to stainless steel. The first attempts to create stainless steel weren’t even attempted until the 1790s, well after the conclusion of the medieval period. Often during the Middle Ages, brews were fermented inside wooden casks, which offered a plethora of hiding places for yeast and bacteria to live.
Brewing in the medieval period was reminiscent of brewing today in the sense that it was extremely accessible. Aristocratic families would often act as large brewers and, to some extent, distributors much like mega-brewers today such as Anheuser-Busch. These families had the resources to create large amounts of brew to a specific standard and then export it to neighboring lands or even ship it abroad.
Monasteries, particularly in medieval England, acted in a similar fashion to specialized artisanal breweries today. They were well funded by the Catholic Church, were relatively insulated from threats — Viking invasions notwithstanding — and allowed to operate with a certain degree of political immunity.
They also specialized in brewing wine for communion, and medieval monks and nuns viewed the process of brewing and imbibing as a means to bring themselves closer to the divine. Wine was an expensive commodity during this period, and it often wasn’t shared among the common flock, even during mass. This was a specialty that was reserved for the clergy and aristocracy of the time — at least in England.
Home brewing was an even bigger deal in medieval England than it is today. We
Have you ever wondered why pubs have such a homey feel, compared to American bars? This was an extension of medieval homebrewing. Folks who became especially skilled at making their own brews were popular people who attracted friends and neighbors to their home with their intoxicating creations. Often, a drink outside the door would evolve into entering the home for another, chatting about news and events of the day, eating and general merriment. After some time, folks figured out this could be a profitable pastime and began pairing it with events like cockfights, which gave rise to the heraldry that adorns many pubs throughout the U.K.
Pub heraldry was especially important during a time when most common people were semi-literate at best. Publicans used their signs like movie posters, catching the attention of passersby and previewing what the pub had to offer.
At one time, many of these signs became so heavy and elaborate that they began falling off their buildings and killing the clientele. That led to an effort by authorities to
•If you think the Canada geese are a problem at Sandpoint City Beach because of the waste they leave behind, be glad they aren’t prehistoric geese. These monsters used to grow as large as cows, standing up to 10 feet tall and weighing about 1,300 pounds. Because of their enormous size and weight, these were most likely flightless birds that lived in modern-day Australia between 24 million and 5 million years ago.
•Geese mate for life, and when they lose their partners they also show signs of mourning.
•A goose named Jacob served in the Second Battalion Coldstream Guards of the British Army in the 19th century. He helped patrol regularly with the men and alerted officers to enemies sneaking up on the sentry. Jacob also received a good conduct ring for his heroic actions defending against French rebels.
•Like many migratory birds, geese are great navigators. They have been known to fly from Canada
as far down as northern Mexico and often return to the exact same places each year.
•A team of researchers in Vienna taught an AI program to recognize goose faces. The director claims the program has a 97% accuracy rate. The technology will apparently give scientists an opportunity to track social structures within flocks of geese. The director stated that, “Geese have such drama. There are archrivals, jealousy and retribution.”
•Geese are often represented in ancient folklore as symbols of fertility, creation and even loyalty. Ancient Egyptians believed they represented the souls of deceased humans and were messengers between the heavens and Earth. According to mythology a goose called “The Great Honker” (Gegen-Wer, which literally means “Great Honker” or Negeg, “The Cackler”) laid the golden egg that is the Sun. In Hindu mythology, the god Brahma is often depicted riding a goose, or hamsa.
Save the kokanee: Make your voice heard on proposed Trestle Creek project
By K.L. Huntley Reader Contributor
Hats off in gratitude to all the people involved in the Pack River Delta restoration endeavor. The $3.5 million project is a perfect model for the restoration of a waterfowl and wildlife habitat with new islands and more than 60,000 native plants put in place. This project will improve the spawning and rearing of endangered species and provide a migration corridor for fish and fowl.
Not to be left out, the public has been provided with a free and easily accessible launch area for canoes and kayaks, as this delta is now designated as a no-wake zone.
It is estimated that somewhere around $20 million has been spent rebuilding the wetland habitats between both the Clark Fork and Pack River deltas, all in an attempt to recover what was lost after the construction of Albeni Falls Dam in the 1950s.
You can imagine the dismay of
hundreds of residents when it came to light that less than one mile from these restoration successes, the Idaho Club is once again planning to destroy a critical habitat area. What good is it to restore two areas and then have a private company sandwiched in the middle be given a greenlight to mutilate their land in such a way that half of the estimated kokanee spawning area will be laid to waste, not to mention the endangered bull trout?
That is only the beginning. The Idaho Club’s new plan includes an 88slip commercial marina.
Eighty-eight slips translates to a minimum paved parking area for 88 vehicles. Since human beings are operating these boats, there will need to be bathroom facilities, not attached to the additional seven homes the Idaho Club plans to build — including additional private docks.
The United States has a tragic history of contributing to the decimation of a variety of habitats and animals.
Even our national symbol — the bald eagle — was listed as endangered for close to 40 years.
I sat at Trestle Creek one year, thrilled to see close to 20 of these majestic birds perched in the trees. Will they perch on the homes the Idaho Club plans to build? How much will the next restoration project cost?
As area residents Kim and David Wanecke said, “Here we go again.”
Mark your calendars. The Idaho Department of Lands will accept comments until Monday, Oct. 7, which will also be the day of a public hearing on the project at Sandpoint High School from 5-8 p.m.
Yes, here we go again. The Idaho Club isn’t taking no for an answer. Somehow they seem to have missed the important connection of human life to the environment.
Just a suggestion, but perhaps they could use their obvious disposable incomes to enhance the community rather than degrade it.
PERSPECTIVES
“Abortion is health care.”
These words came from the lips of Sandpoint’s own Dr. Amelia Huntsberger, as she testified to the Senate Finance Committee last week about the harms of anti-abortion laws nationwide. Committee Chairman, Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon — where Huntsberger now lives — invited her to speak at the hearing, which was meant to explore our nation’s current reproductive health care crisis.
This crisis was made starkly evident recently by the reported deaths of two Georgia women who couldn’t access legal abortions. It’s been visible for two years with myriad stories of care denied to pregnant patients in dire need.
“Abortion is safe,” she continued, “At no point in pregnancy is any politician more qualified to make health care decisions than a patient and their doctor. Government interference in health care must stop.”
Huntsberger shared her story of practicing obstetrics in Idaho and flee-
ing, fearful for her safety and future in a state hostile to and ill-informed on the need for abortion care. She explained how anti-abortion legislation ties physicians’ hands, morally harming them and mortally harming the pregnant patients they serve.
Huntsberger is a skilled orator, and she is especially passionate about this topic. Her testimony was powerful. However, it was the simple phrase abortion is health care that caught my ear. At the moment of its utterance, my inbox was abuzz with controversy about that very expression.
As you may know, I now run a reproductive rights organization called The Pro-Voice Project. We focus on abortion storytelling programming across Idaho, building empathy and challenging stigma around an experience that is greatly maligned and little understood. Among our merchandise offerings are yard signs reading “Abortion Is Healthcare.” We have nearly 1,000 in circulation throughout the state.
Though the signs have been available since March, they became a source of controversy just last week, with several residents suggesting the signs were problematic. Some bristled at the mention of the word “abortion,” feeling that it was off-putting, not socially acceptable and too “in-yourface.” The sense was that using the word “abortion” drives away the very people with whom we need to build bridges.
Others challenged equating abortion with health care, especially as it pertains to “elective abortions” (a term I hate, freighted as it is with sanctimony), where the pregnant patient’s health is not imminently on the line. Nearly all of those chafing at the sign asserted that
they agreed with the restoration of reproductive rights, but that they were most concerned with how others might perceive the slogan. Such is the perennial objection to the yard sign: “What will other people think?”
Guess what? The only way to find out is to start a conversation about it. And the yard signs are doing just that. More people in Sandpoint are talking about abortion this week than before. Isn’t such public discourse a win? Especially with a taboo topic?
The idea that we can advocate for the restoration of abortion access without saying the word is anathema. I know we would rather dance around the word with comfortable euphemisms like “pro-choice” or “reproductive health care,” but that’s how we lost the right in the first place. The things we’re not talking about, we’re not fighting for. And our inability to say the word “abortion” is what helped silo it from all other forms of health care, orphaning it and making it susceptible to loss.
I know it’s hard to say the word “abortion” in mixed company. I know it might trigger people rather than win them over. But when the other side has no compunctions about using the word and defining it as they see fit
— largely as a procedure reserved for selfish and morally bankrupt women — why shouldn’t we take back the term and make it as expansive as the experience is? Because the experience is expansive. Each of you reading this knows someone — loves someone, even — who’s had an abortion. And those abortions happened for compelling reasons, worthy of our compassion. So, why are we willing to let the definition of abortion become so narrow that it only applies to people easily despised?
I will not let this definition go unchallenged. When we allow abortion to be defined as an amoral endeavor, we invite retribution against those seeking them and providing them. It is in these dark soils that violence takes root. We need to say the word if for no other reason than to create safe harbors for providers like Huntsberger — who left this area, in part, due to fear of retaliation for speaking out — and for seekers and advocates like me.
Say “abortion” for your daughter, who might need one someday, or for
Dr. Amelia Huntsberger testified before the U.S. Senate Finance Committee at a Sept. 24 hearing titled, “Chaos and Control: How Trump Criminalized Women’s Health Care.” Courtesy screenshot.
< LUMBERJILL, con’t from Page 12 > your wife or sister who’s already had one and is too afraid to talk about it. Say the word and reclaim it so that the danger surrounding it evaporates; so that I stop getting asked if I’ve been shot at for my advocacy. So that the word becomes as normal and common as the experience is.
I had an abortion when I was 25. At the time of conception, I was scared and lonely, estranged from my parents and in an abusive relationship that would soon further isolate me. My abortion is defined as an “elective” one — I didn’t need it for physical survival — but in the unfolding of my life, it doesn’t feel so much elective as it does redemptive. To be able to take a pill that saves one from depression and isolation, from abuse and financial insecurity — that seems like a form of health care verging on the miraculous.
It was also, by definition, a medical procedure. I went to a clinic. I spoke with a provider. I had an ultrasound. And then I was given medication. Just like any other form of health care.
Furthermore, my “on-demand” abortion is little different from your “on-demand” knee replacement, one that contravenes the natural deterioration of your joint due to age. Deterioration, I might add, that was exacerbated by your pleasure-seeking on the pickleball court (tsk, tsk, you hedonist) . Why not embrace what the Creator meant for your body? It’s natural to need a walker or wheelchair at age 70. Come back to us when that knee replacement is necessary to save your life.
(Sucks to have someone tell you what’s best for your body, right?)
I use the word abortion not as provocation but as an evocation, forcing us to feel and respond, thus hauling the procedure out of the silent and shame-filled shadows where it has resided for generations. Abortion must
be liberated from that dark space if we are to return it to the arsenal of reproductive health care where it belongs.
It belongs in clinics, not in our moralizing. It belongs in the hands of physicians, not in those of legislators. It belongs within the grasp of women — all the women for all their well-considered reasons — not locked within our dogmatism and worrying about the opinions of others.
It is easy to believe that the work of groups like mine is to win over the other side, but I refuse to change my messaging to accommodate people who will never agree with me. Instead, my work is about reaching the exact people who are currently filling my inbox, the people who ostensibly support reproductive rights but are too afraid to say the name of the thing they’re fighting for.
Polling shows that, in Idaho, we have numbers on our side. We don’t need to magically transform abortion abolitionists into allies with clever wordplay, shrouding our true ends in euphemisms. Instead, if we can en-
courage the more than 60% of Idahoans who agree that government has no place in the exam room to say the word, to speak of it with family and friends, to normalize it and put a face to it, then we can fortify and amplify the extensive army we already have.
Dr. Amelia Huntsberger did not shy away from the word “abortion” within the halls of Congress. She said it two dozen times in her testimony, and for that, I commend her. She defined herself as, among other things, an abortion provider. She defined abortion as health care. She declared the procedure to be safe. She stated clearly that abortion preserves health and lives.
Mine included. My abortion safeguarded my freedom to pursue a hopeful and happy future. And I can think of no greater form of compassionate health care than that.
Jen Jackson Quintano writes and runs The Pro-Voice Project, a reproductive rights organization, in Sandpoint. Sadly, neither requires much in the way of chainsaw use.
Submission period open for Silver Box art-on-loan program
By Zach Hagadone Reader Staff
The city of Sandpoint’s Silver Box Project art-on-loan program is accepting applications until 2 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 10, with artists from near and far invited to submit their pieces for potential display at locations around downtown.
Any and all artists are eligible for selection, regardless of where they’re based — though local and regional applicants may be given preference — and participants under 18 years of age will also be considered, provided they have the written consent of a parent or guardian.
The program has featured a number of sculptural works in the past, which have been loaned to the city for the period of one year. That’s going to change this year, with installations on display for six months. Artists are welcome to submit up to three works for consideration, but they must be accompanied by individual applications and will be scored separately.
“The goal is to get those rotating in and out a little more quickly,” Sandpoint Community Planning and Development Director Jason Welker told the City Council at its Sept. 18 meeting. “We had so many submissions last time — there’s so much cool art out there that we want to put on display downtown, so we’re going to try to basically double the
rate of overturn in that.”
Selected artists will receive a $500 stipend for the temporary installation of their work, which will be mounted on stainless steel bases that have been purpose-built for the program.
Should any of the pieces be sold during the display period, the city will receive a 10% commission.
Following the Oct. 10 application deadline, submissions will undergo a selection process culminating in November, when the finalists are presented to the City Council. Delivery and installation of the selected works will take place no later than Nov. 22, and taken down no sooner than May 23, 2025.
Submissions can be emailed to cityclerk@sandpointidaho.gov or delivered to Sandpoint City Hall (1123 Lake St.).
Find the full details on the program at sandpointidaho.gov under “solicitations” on the homepage.
City of Dover conducting community survey
By Reader Staff
As part of the process to update its comprehensive plan, the city of Dover is conducting a community survey to gather opinions from citizens and visitors about various topics.
Idaho Code requires municipalities to adopt a comprehensive plan, which includes a summary of the community’s goals and policies and its outlook on the future, and must be regularly updated.
Dover has experienced rapid growth and changes over the past decade, and the city’s updated plan will address aspects of that growth, including housing, recreational opportunities and service needs.
The goal of the survey is to hear opinions about what Dover is and what Dover can become.
A link to the survey is available at the city of Dover’s website: cityofdover.id.gov. Surveys will also be available at the planning booth at the
“I
Dover Harvest Festival, which takes place Saturday, Oct. 5 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The survey will run until Sunday, Oct. 13. Participation is anonymous, although respondents are welcome to leave their names and contact information if they wish to be involved in the plan update.
Results of the survey will be shared with the community and help shape goals for the future growth and development of Dover.
A Silver Box pedastal on Oak St. in Sandpoint. Photo by Ben Olson.
POAC Gallery presents Western Wanderings, by Brett Rennison — a.k.a. Chico Sundown
By Reader Staff
The Pend Oreille Arts Council Gallery will present Western Wanderings, a solo exhibition by Brett Rennison, who works under the artist name Chico Sundown. Drawing inspiration from his upbringing in Wyoming, Idaho and Oregon, Rennison’s work delves into the spirit of the American West, capturing the energy of ranch life, the vastness of the landscapes and the rugged personalities he has encountered.
The exhibition will showcase Sundown’s latest series, “Cheyenne,” which is filled with bold colors, dynamic brushstrokes and compelling perspectives reminiscent of Western culture. Influenced by iconic artists such as Fritz Scholder and Vincent Van Gogh, Sun-
down’s work marries post-impressionist techniques with modern storytelling, offering a fresh look at Western themes. Art enthusiasts and collectors alike are invited to the opening reception on Friday, Oct. 4, from 5-7 p.m., at the POAC Gallery (313 N. Second Ave., in downtown Sandpoint). The event provides an opportunity to meet the artist and explore the collection in an intimate setting.
Western Wanderings will be on display through Saturday, Oct. 26, and admission to the exhibition is free.
For more information, contact Claire Christy at poacasst1@gmail.com or 208263-6139.
Artwork by Chico Sundown.
COMMUNITY Rex Theater receives national grants
By Reader Staff
The Foundation for the Rex Theater has been awarded a $15,000 grant by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, with a matching grant from the Marcus Anderson Family Foundation. The grants will be used to develop a master plan for the rehabilitation of the historic theater.
The Rex Theater was part of a bustling Priest River downtown and is on the national historic register.
The theater opened in 1923 with the debut of screen star Nell Shipman’s film The Grub Stake. Boasting state-of-the-art equipment to feature silent films, the theater offered viewers an experience similar to the movie palaces in bigger cities. By the end of the 1920s, the Rex made the transition to talkies and entertained several generations of Priest River audiences, operating through the 1950s under the name Roxy. The theater is annexed to the Beardmore Building, which was renovated to award-winning LEED standards by owner and great-grandson of Charles Beardmore, Brian Runberg.
Founded in 2019 by Priest River bandmates Chad Summers, Gary Stewart and Geoff Rusho, the Foundation for the Rex Theater has been cleaning and preparing the theater for rehabilitation while also submitting for grant support. The funded master plan will be guided by architectural, structural and technical consultants to assist Rex Theater board members and other stakeholders in defining and documenting a vision for rehabilitating and operating the historic theater. Architect Dawn Bushnaq will lead the effort.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a leading funder in the historic preservation movement, awarding more than $13 million to organizations across the country last year. Established in 1969, National Trust Preservation Funds encourage
preservation at the local level, supporting nonprofit organizations and public agencies by providing seed money for preservation projects.
“Organizations like the Foundation for the Rex Theater help to ensure that communities all across the United States retain their unique sense of place,” stated Carol Quillen, president and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “We are honored to provide a grant to the Foundation of the Rex Theater, which will use the funds to help preserve an important piece of our shared national heritage.”
The Marcus Anderson Family Foundation is a self-funded, Idaho-based nonprofit with an attention to community involvement and improvement.
“We are committed to fostering growth and providing resources where they are needed most,” stated foundation President Marcus Anderson. “Our foundation remains dedicated to making a lasting impact. We are honored to uplift and strengthen the Priest River community, and those we serve.”
The Foundation for the Rex Theater will post updated information and photos at rextheater.org. For more information about the National Trust for Historic Preservation, go to SavingPlaces.org. To learn about the mission of the Marcus Anderson Family Foundation, visit marcusandersonfamilyfoundation.org
National Trust for Historic Preservation and Marcus Anderson Family Foundation support the historic Priest River building
The interior of the Rex Theater in Priest River during demolition in 2023. Photo courtesy of the Rex Theater Foundation.
Annual Sandpoint Apple Fest returns
By Soncirey Mitchell Reader Staff
Area businesses are gearing up for the Downtown Sandpoint Shopping District’s annual Apple Fest, which combines must-have sales with apple-themed activities and treats.
Forty retailers and restaurants will participate this year, including the city’s newest additions, Aspen and Stone At Home, Verdant Plants, Vin-
tage Revival and Paneah’s.
Attendees can pick up a “passport” at any participating business and then mill about the shops, which are divided into four quadrants. Visit one shop from each and then drop your passport at any participating restaurant before 6 p.m. to be entered into a drawing for $1,000 worth of gift cards and two tickets to singer-songwriter ZZ Ward in Spokane.
Visit the Cedar Street Bridge to try
NAMI walks toward hope
By Soncirey Mitchell Reader Staff
Friends and members of the Far North chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness will gather Saturday, Oct. 5 with all other national chapters as part of the NAMIWalks campaign, which is intended to build community and raise awareness for mental health resources.
“NAMIWalks is the largest, most vibrant mental health event series in the country. Taking place in more than 150 locations, NAMIWalks invites supporters to share their stories, build community and walk together to achieve mental health for all,” said Far North President Dawn Mehra.
Supporters are invited to meet in the VCA North Idaho Animal Hospital parking lot (320 S. Ella St.) and walk together along the Sandpoint-Dover Community Trail before returning to enjoy a host of community activities. Three-piece western band One Dog Down will provide live music for the event, which will include free massages, T-shirts, mental health resource tables and a kids’ activity station hosted by Litehouse YMCA.
thanked NAMI’s local sponsors for helping to make the event free for all. Attendees are encouraged to donate to help NAMI reach its $13,000 fundraising goal, which will help provide free support and education programs, sailing sessions with Dogsmile Adventures and skiing adventures with Sandpoint Nordic Club.
This past year, much of the organization’s fundraising has been devoted to the Sand Creek Clubhouse (513 N. Fourth Ave.), which is set to open in November. The meeting place will be Idaho’s first branch of Clubhouse International, which provides care, classes and community for people living with serious mental illness.
NAMI intends to serve approximately 100 individuals in Bonner and Boundary counties in the first year.
“We are excited to bring our community together for this meaningful event,” said Clubhouse co-Founder Maria Corsini in a recent news release. “By walking and raising awareness we want to ensure that everyone has access to the support and resources they need to thrive.”
To register for the walk, or to donate, visit bit.ly/NAMIWalksFarNorth or call 208-597-2047.
out the slingshot and hurl a few apples into Sand Creek. Local bakers should also try their hand at the bridge’s apple pie contest. Enter two pies before 9 a.m. for a live judging beginning at 11 a.m.
“Come downtown. All the tourists are gone; it’s our town again. Let’s come
and make memories together. The trees are starting to turn — it’s beautiful. The weather’s gorgeous and there’s a lot of really new, neat stuff,” said Downtown Manager Leilani Williams.
For more information, visit downtownsandpoint. com.
Mehra
Send event listings to calendar@sandpointreader.com
Live Music w/ Little Eagle
5:30-7:30pm @ Matchwood Brewing Co.
Game Night
6:30pm @ Tervan
Trivia Night 7pm @ Connie’s Lounge
Live Music w/ Ron Keiper Trio (jazz)
5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery
Live Music w/ The Dead and Down
8:45pm @ The Hive Exploratory roots-rock. Doors 7pm
Live Music w/ Bright Moments Jazz
7-9pm @ Baxter’s on Cedar (upstairs)
Live Music w/ Billy Bensing (rock)
6-9pm @ Barrel 33
Live Music w/ Ian Newbill
5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery
Classic rock and a little country
Live Music w/ John Daffron
5pm @ Connie’s Lounge
Live Music w/ Billy Bensing (rock)
6-9pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall
Live Music w/ Truck Mills
5:30-8:30pm @ Barrel 33
Sip & Screen
8am-5pm @ BGH Imagin Center, 423 N. 3rd
Join us for a mammogram, snacks, libations and fun. Call (208) 265-3349 to schedule an appointment
Sandpoint Farmers’ Market 9am-1pm @ Farmin Park
Popeye Rose Social Club
6pm @ CREATE Arts Center, Newport Eclectic array of live music. $12/$15
Sandpoint Chess Club
9am @ Evans Brothers Coffee
Magic with Star Alexander
5-8pm @ Jalepeño’s
THURSDAY, October 3
Live Music w/ General Mojo’s 8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Seattle psychedelic rock band
FriDAY, October 4
Live Music w/ Jordan Pitts 5pm @ Connie’s Lounge Country music
Live Music w/ John Firshi Blues Crew
6-8pm @ Smokesmith BBQ
Live Music w/ Ken Mayginnes
6-9pm @ 1908 Saloon
SATURDAY, October 5
Apple Fest
11am-6pm @ Downtown Sandpoint
A downtown event with apple-themed games, face painting, apple toss, pie contests and more at participating venues
Sandpoint Eagles Oktoberfest
1pm @ Sandpoint Eagles, 1511 John Hudon Stein holding, pretzel tossing, log sawing and beer pong. German dinner from 4-6pm. Find more on Facebook page U-Pick Pumpkin Patch (Oct. 5-6)
10am-5pm @ Bushel & A Peck Farm Hay rides, barnyard animals, bounce houses, cider, food and more. 26 Shingle Mill & Hwy 200. From Sept. 29-Oct. 27
5-7pm @ POAC Gallery, 313 N. 2nd Ave. “Western Wanderings” exhibition by artist Brett Rennison (Chico Sundown)
Live Music w/ General Mojo’s 8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Seattle psychedelic rock band
NAMIWalks
10am @ North Idaho Animal Hospital lot
A free public event to gather awareness for mental health. Free cofee, snacks, music and kids area. The walk is a short 1.5-mile route along Dover trail that is wheelchair accessible.
Friends of the Library monthly book sale 10am-2pm @ Sandpoint Library
Celebrate 35 years of the Friends of the Library with this book sale. Buy 5, get one free. Halloween featured as well Sandpoint’s 4th annual Apple Pie Contest 9am @ Creations at Cedar St. Bridge First prize $250 fall gift basket. Make 2 pies and drop off at 9am. Judging at 11am. More info: 208-597-4248
Live Music w/ The Sevens 7-9pm @ Baxter’s on Cedar
Psychic Speakeasy
monDAY, October 7
Outdoor Experience Group Run 6pm @ Outdoor Experience 3-5 miles, all levels welcome
Intro to salsa dancing 6-8pm @ Barrel 33
Learn to salsa dance with Murphy
wednesDAY, October 9
LPOSD Safe Routes to School ‘Walk and Roll to School’ day
Raise awareness to create safer walking and biking paths for children to safely go to school and back. walkbiketoschool.org for info
7pm @ The Pearl Theater (Bonners Ferry) An evening version of Tea & Tarot Game Night 6:30pm @ Tervan
Benny on the Deck • 5-7pm @ Connie’s Lounge Featuring guest Whiskey Jack
ThursDAY, October 10
Artist Reception: Brandon Puckett
5-7pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery
See October artist of the month Brandon Puckett’s vibrant, professional photography and have a glass of wine
Sandpoint Farmers’ Market 3-5:30pm @ Farmin Park
Trivia Night 7pm @ Connie’s Lounge Game Night 6:30pm @ Tervan
Netflix’s Mr. McMahon is the docu-series we need — and deserve — right now
By Zach Hagadone Reader Staff
It’s an unsettling experience to watch the brandnew, hotly anticipated and much-discussed Netflix docu-series Mr. McMahon, which takes viewers on a sweeping, insider-y journey through the cultural phenomenon of professional wrestling.
It’s a work of profound (if accidental) self-revelation and a critically important rumination on the nation itself. This is the documentary that we need and deserve at this socio-political, economic and philosophical moment as a country.
You may snicker up your sleeve at that notion, but a smarter writer than me (David Roth, of The New Statesman) pointed out in an article in July unrelated to the Netflix show that, “Everything is wrestling: American public life is an extension of the nation’s most sordid sport.”
Watch even the first episode of Mr. McMahon and this will become apparent. There’s talk of cutthroat competition and unethical business moves motivated by greed and arrogance, and — above all — the unholy union of scripted violence animating media manipulation. If this sounds like the seedbed for Trumpism, remember that Donald Trump himself entered the ring, going nose-to-nose with McMahon in a spittle-spraying shouting match. Remember that Hulk Hogan today campaigns with Trump. A savvy observer might realize that Trump learned at least some of his moves from McMahon, rather than the opposite.
They call it “kayfabe,” which is an old carnival term referring to the winking acknowledgement between performers and audience members that everything they’re doing and seeing is technically fake, but pretending that it isn’t in order to
enjoy the show.
Think about how weird that is — for decades we’ve had a multi-billion dollar media enterprise that supposedly showcases physical achievement but is actually a soap opera that peddles narrative fiction, steeped in serious political ideas wielded with no responsibility or reflection. Vince McMahon has been the spider at the center of the web all along.
By Episode 4, wrestling icon Tony Atlas directly connects the threads between late-20th century American culture and wrestling:
“See, in my day, there was a good guy and a bad guy. Vince Jr. made it the bad and the worst. There were no more good guys in wrestling. The fans did not want to see good guys no more. Nobody wanted to see a good guy. ... We cater to what is in front of us. You tap into that. That’s big money. So Vince said, ‘Give me some of that money.’”
McMahon demurs when he says, immediately following Atlas’ comments, “We don’t always set trends, we follow them, and back in those days it was [the] Wild West.”
However, director Chris Smith juxtaposes that dialogue with theater and performance professor Sharon Mazer’s observation that, “Some part of us really loves watching the bad guys get over. Maybe the part of us that doesn’t like the fact that we have to behave ourselves — you can’t go around shoving people, you can’t go around insulting people.”
And Steve Austin — who is credited in the series as being among the ultimate “heels” in the wrestling business — bookends that segment with his comment that, “People live vicariously through those kind of storylines, and would love to punch their boss in the mouth. I got a chance to literally and figuratively do that
most every Monday night.”
Of course, Austin is talking about punching his boss — McMahon — in the mouth, and says point blank that he is “easy to hate.”
At that point, McMahon himself claims that his villain persona is just that — a creation crafted to sell a story and build the brand. At the same time, he admits that he didn’t fight fair in his life.
“I was good at fighting, but they would say, ‘ You didn’t fight fair. You cheated.’ Yeah. I won,” he says with a deadpan tone, going on to talk about how “it’s such a great feeling” to absorb the waves of hate flowing toward him from audiences.
He claims to have no similarities with his “Mr. McMahon” character and his internal life. Hulk Hogan, who perhaps knows McMahon as well as anyone, says without any hesitation that he’s “exactly the same person. It’s not a far stretch.”
McMahon has been an ob-
ject of fascination (hate-fueled otherwise) for a long time, but the timing of this documentary series makes much of what he says in the film look even more suspect.
Netflix put together most of Mr. McMahon before the real-life McMahon left his job as executive chairman of WWE’s owner, TKO Holdings, in January, as the feds are currently investigating him for alleged sex trafficking and battery. The tip of that iceberg is apparent throughout Mr. McMahon.
For his part, McMahon
issued a statement just prior to the series going live, writing in part, “I don’t regret participating in this Netflix documentary. The producers had an opportunity to tell an objective story about my life and the incredible business I built, which were equally filled with excitement, drama, fun, and a fair amount of controversy and life lessons. Unfortunately, based on an early partial cut I’ve seen, this doc falls short and takes the predictable path of conflating the ‘Mr. McMahon’ character with my true self, Vince. The title and promos alone make that evident.”
He concluded his statement with hopes that the “viewer will keep an open mind and remember that there are two sides to every story.”
And that’s exactly what it is: A story, from top to bottom, and it’s the story of how Vince McMahon has been a kind of antipope of coarseness for two generations of Americans. As he says in an interview in the early 2000s — and featured in Episode 5 — “I’m an entrepreneur. I’m what makes this company; I’m what makes my company and this country go round and round.” That may be true, or it may not be true. Maybe that’s irrelevant. Stripped to its essentials, Mr. McMahon shows us that truth is stranger than fiction; but, in the U.S., fiction more often than not dictates truth.
Courtesy image
By Marcia Pilgeram Reader Columnist
If I haven’t been there, it’s likely on my list. This year, I will conquer one of my most ambitious travel schedules. First, I am off to Greece, home to repack before the month is over and then headed to Tahiti for a few hotel site inspections; but, more importantly, I timed the trip to Tahiti to surprise a favorite client who may need a little help navigating the start of his adventure. I’ll be home for Thanksgiving but then off to France before I have time to polish off granddaughter Fern’s first pumpkin pie.
It may sound glamorous, and at times it is, but it’s also a lot of work. I’m often the guest of a government tourism board, a tour company, hotel brand or even a start-up boutique hotel. While I love the opportunity these journeys afford (finding hidden travel gems I can’t wait to share with friends, families and clients), I’m also gracious and understanding that things go awry, like flight arriving hours late, and we’re finally seated for a five-course welcome dinner at 10 p.m. instead of 8 p.m.
I don’t post a lot on social media, especially if I don’t have anything good to say, whether it’s a less-thanperfect hotel stay, a so-so five-course dinner at a newly starred Michelin restaurant or an activity that was canceled last minute because the small-time operators’ only tuk-tuk was stolen the night before my tour. I find so many reviews to be subjective, and mine would be, too.
The Sandpoint Eater It’s Greek to me
Sometimes, other participants I meet spend more hours engaged with their phones than our hosts, and I hear them sharing their “follower counts.” It’s never been my thing, and I can’t wrap my head around terms like influencer and micro-celebrity, and I would consider myself neither. Heck, I can’t even persuade or bribe my 6-year-old vegetarian grandson, Sam, to eat much of anything I cook. I have no influence over his 4-year-old sister, Runa Rae, who refuses to wear the adorable little togs I purchase on her behalf.
Since the huge influx of travel that began postCOVID, people have been hankering to pack their bags and journey to photo-worthy Instagram destinations. This
phenomenon creates want and wanderlust in many folks (not unlike what we’re sadly seeing in our beloved town and region).
For instance, I used to have a couple of favorite little haunts: one in Dublin, Ireland and another in Seville, Spain. Time had forgotten both — they were quaint, quirky and uncrowded. Happenstance led me to both doors during long, solo exploratory walks.
The pub in Dublin was full of late-afternoon characters, ladies with shopping bags stopping for a frothy pint before heading home, and seasoned musicians gathered to share an early evening of jamming and a bit of craic with longtime cronies.
The bar in Seville was a
landmark, featuring the oldest restaurant in the Andalusian city. I often lingered there at the standup bar, watching the aged bartender slice thin Iberico ham and pour rich red wine from barrels before it was served in jelly-glass portions. Bills were tallied with chalk on the worn, wooden bar.
Last year, I called both locations on separate trips and the juxtapositions I witnessed were startling and even sad. Lines snaked around their ancient buildings. The Irish pub had doormen to expedite entry into the overcrowded space, and the Spanish bar was equipped with new pointof-sale electronics stationed next to the Iberico ham leg, waiting to be carved.
It was a good reminder that even if I had thousands of social media followers, I wouldn’t be tempted to share the hidden gems I find along my upcoming trip to Greece. Instead, when I return, I’ll gather with a few friends and some good wine to share my finds, along with a few stories and a recipe or two that I hope to gather along the way (maybe I’ll even make them rewatch my favorite Greek chick-flick, Shirley Valentine). For now, I’ll offer a recipe that was a standard of the Greek community in Missoula. I learned so much from them. I miss their annual festivals, filled with culture, tradition, and delicious foods, like this perfect-for-fall apple cake, milopita
Greek apple cake recipe (milopita)
The Greek family that shared their recipe with me used Metaxa 7 Stars Greek brandy, added walnuts instead of pecans and added raisins to the batter. Feel free to try their version. Slice the apple rings as thin as possible. It makes for a lovely cake when you slice into it! Serves 6-10.
INGREDIENTS: DIRECTIONS:
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 3 apples, peeled and sliced into thin rings
• 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp vanilla
• ½ cup toasted pecans
• Confectioner sugar for dusting
• 2 Tbs brandy
• 1 Tbs brown sugar
• 1 Tbs white sugar
• Apple slices
Preheat your oven to 325 F grease and line a (11”) springform pan with parchment paper. Coat lightly with olive oil, and turn paper so both sides are coated.
Peel apples and place in bowl with generous squeeze of lemon juice. Cut apples in half, core out center. Slice halves into thin rings (so they look like a donut). Leave in lemon water until batter is ready. Take about 6 nice slices, place on a plate and sprinkle the brandy, brown and white sugar on slices.
In a large bowl combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder and cinnamon. Whisk and set aside.
In another bowl combine the yogurt, eggs, olive oil, vanilla and whisk by hand to combine well.
Add the wet mixture to the dry and stir until just combined. Do not over-mix.
Pour the brandy syrup onto the bottom of springform pan, arrange the 6 slices. Top with pecans. Pour enough batter to cover. Add another sprinkle of pecans. Add another layer of apples, pat down, add more batter and sprinkle of pecans. Repeat until you’re out of apples and batter. Tap lightly to settle. Bake for about 40 mins (insert a skewer to check that it is cooked). Leave the cake in the pan for 10 mins, invert on a platter. Dust with sugar before serving. Wrap leftovers well, and refrigerate.
MUSIC
General Mojo’s bring their psychedelic rock sound to Eichardt’s
By Ben Olson Reader Staff
Seattle’s shimmering psych rock quartet General Mojo’s are not strangers to Sandpoint.
The band’s upcoming gig at Eichardt’s Pub at 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 4 marks a half-dozen times the band has brought their unique, ethereal and funky sound to Sandpoint.
“We’ve really found a home away from home there in Sandpoint with Robb Talbott and Mattox Farm,” bassist Dune Butler told the Reader Butler and bandmates Natalie Colvin (keys), Raoul Hardin (drums) and David James (guitar) all contribute vocals and Butler said he writes most of the songs.
“We first came out to Sandpoint with a band named Biddadat, where two of their members are from,” Butler said, referring to Cameron Brownell and Kyle Miller — Sandpoint High School grads who make up two-thirds of the neo-funk band.
Since then, General Mojo’s has played Summerfest, Schweitzer, Eichardt’s and the Jack Frost Fest. Each time they return, they bring a unique hybrid of psychedelic rock mixed with pop and synth elements, atmospheric vocals and overdriven guitars that combine to create an energetic, dynamic performance.
The band is touring to support its upcoming album, The Flat Earth Project, with
two new singles dropped to streaming services this week.
Butler pointed out that he and his bandmates are not believers in the “Flat Earth,” a fringe theory that claims the Earth is not a globe, but is flat (spoiler alert: it’s round).
“It’s a concept,” Butler explained about the name. “The record is steeped in metaphor.
It’s about people not being willing to look at the reality of a situation and move on when they see what is obviously true. The world is definitely round.”
7 p.m., FREE, Eichardt’s Pub, 212 Cedar St., 208-263-4005. Visit eichardtspub.com and listen at generalmojos.com.
The Hive hosts free concert with The Dead & Down
By Ben Olson Reader Staff
In the early days of rock ’n’ roll, the music was born out of folk, blues and country origins to form a new sound. Bands that occupy the nebulous “roots rock” genre give a nod to these early origins, while also injecting new life into an art form that continues to affect us to this day.
Montana-based The Dead & Down are as much inspired by the vast landscapes of their home state as they are by the
various musical influences that weave through their sound.
Led by songwriter Taylor Burlage, whose introspective songs and dusty vocals can only have come from Big Sky Country, The Dead & Down’s music explores those early origins in rock while peppering in alt-country, swampy rock and psychedelia to present a unique vibe that lives comfortably in that liminal space between Montana and the rest of the world.
The Dead & Down has opened for some great acts like
Paul Cauthen, Futurebirds and the Last Revel. Their sophomore album No Broken Bones dropped earlier this year and shows great range for the band, which never fits into just one container.
Doors at 7 p.m., show starts at 8:45 p.m., FREE thanks to Ting Internet, 21+. The Hive, 207 N. First Ave., 208-920-9039. Tickets at livefromthehive.com. Listen at thedeadanddown.com.
A snapshot of notable live music coming up in Sandpoint
Aaron Golay and The Original Sin, 219 Lounge, Oct. 5 Jack Purdie, Pend d’Oreille Winery, Oct. 8
Boise-based soul-rock-Americana powerhouse Aaron Golay and the Original Sin is swinging back through town to remind us why we’ve been so pumped to see them when they’ve been to town off and on since 2021. The trio, composed of the eponymous Golay on lead vocals and guitar, Darcy Erickson on bass and vocals, and Michael Tetro on drums and vocals, will be lighting up Saturday night Oct. 5 at the 219 Lounge — their first visit to the
downtown watering hole since last year.
As the Niner states, Aaron Golay and the Original Sin “brings modern Americana rock and soul with plenty of rhythm and energy.” Meanwhile, “We love these guys and it’s been a minute.” All we can add to that is “it’s about time” they came back for a visit.
— Zach Hagadone
9 p.m., FREE, 21+. 219 Lounge, 219 N. First Ave., 208-263-5673, 219. bar. Listen at aarongolaymusic.com.
Accomplished multi-instrumentalist Jack Purdie will serenade diners on the piano at Pend d’Oreille Winery Tuesday, Oct. 8 with an ambient mix of jazz and blues. Many in Sandpoint will recognize Purdie from his solo work as well as his performances in the Mike Wagoner Band — though he’s not always behind the piano.
Purdie developed his love of music at a young age and since learned to play the
This week’s RLW by Ben Olson
acoustic guitar, bass, cello and drums, and has dabbled in a host of genres from pop to bluegrass.
Drop in to see which facets of his artistry he’ll draw from this time.
— Soncirey Mitchell
5-7 p.m., FREE. Pend d’Oreille Winery, 301 Cedar St. Ste. 101, 208-265-8545, powine.com.
READ LISTEN
I had full access to my parents’ bookshelf when I was a kid; and, as a result, I read a lot of grownup novels at a young age. One of my favorite authors was Stephen King, who wove a beautiful story while also scaring the crap out of the reader. Of King’s work, The Stand remains in my top three. The Stand takes place right as a viral flu called “Captain Trips” wipes out 99% of the global population, leaving a hardy group of survivors battling to rebuild the world, in which good and evil now battle for dominance.
If you missed the Deep Roots songwriter showcase at The Hive on Sept. 28, it was a pretty magical event. Promoter and songwriter Kevin Dorin teamed up with The Hive’s Mack Diebel to offer those in attendance a high-quality video and recording. This recording was only made available to those who were there, but I bet if you bought a beer for your buddy who has the recording, they’d let you watch it.
WATCH
I can still hear the sound of my dad doubling over with laughter while watching one of comedian and pianist Victor Borge’s specials on TV. A virtuoso pianist, Borge’s act usually involves him assuming the role of a conductor or pianist while general hijinks ensue. For example, in one skit, Borge and a singer begin the song “Autumn Leaves,” and the singer keeps belting away unaware that Borge is struggling behind him as more and more leaves rain down on him and his piano. It gets so bad, Borge finally has to cower beneath the instrument. You can find all of his old skits on youtube.com.
Courtesy photo.
Courtesy photo.
From Northern Idaho News, October 5, 1909
BUILD ANOTHER BRICK BLOCK FOR SANDPOINT
TWO-STORY BRICK ON CORNER OF FOURTH AND CHURCH STREET STARTED
P. R. Harrild has just completed plans for a modern two-story brick building to be erected on the corner of Fourth and Church streets. The first floor of the new building will be occupied by Robert Frey, one of the pioneers of this city with the Idaho Manufacturing company. The second floor will be used for lodge rooms.
The excavating for the new building was commenced last week and the work on the building will be pushed to completion as fast as possible, it being expected to have the building ready for occupancy in the course of 60 to 90 days.
The building will have a frontage of 62 feet on Church street and 44 feet on Fourth street. Mr. Frey intends to add a number of new machines to his already largely equipped wood working plant and will make furniture of all kinds as well as doing general mill work.
BACK OF THE BOOK
Like and likeability
By Zach Hagadone Reader Staff
Does anyone really know what “likeability” means? Of course there’s a dictionary definition, which goes something like, “having qualities that bring about a favorable regard,” but the term’s use as a metric in political campaigning is harder to pin down.
Yet that word, or some variation of it, was everywhere following the Oct. 1 vice-presidential debate between Republican JD Vance and Democrat Tim Walz — specifically that Ohio Sen. Vance’s central goal during the faceoff was to come off as “likable,” while Minnesota Gov. Walz simply had to remain “likable.”
Taking “likeability” as a measure of “favorability,” the pollster blog “FiveThirtyEight” had fresh numbers on Oct. 2, showing that 45.3% of voters have an “unfavorable opinion” of Donald Trump’s running mate, while 35.8% of voters have a similar feeling about Kamala Harris’ veep pick.
Vance did experience a slight uptick in his favorability following the debate — up .2% since Sept. 30 to 34.8% on Oct. 2. Meanwhile, Walz gained .3% on his favorability score for a total of 40.4%, as of Oct. 2.
For weeks, headlines from around the country referred to polls showing that Vance is perhaps the leastliked vice-presidential candidate of the century — behind even Sarah Palin — and that Walz entered the race head-and-shoulders above his opponent in the hearts and minds of voters. In the hours leading up to the debate, The Los Angeles Times’
STR8TS Solution
headline characterized the televised event as “‘Mad Dad’ Vance vs. ‘Rad Dad’ Walz.” Meanwhile, CNN Senior Data Reporter Harry Enten said that Vance’s abysmal favorability rating has made him, “a drag on the Republican side of the ticket.”
Is it any wonder? You can’t disparage “childless cat ladies” one week then suggest without evidence that immigrants are eating people’s pets and hope to be scoring points with anyone who’s not already in the bag for your candidacy. (What’s next? Childless immigrant cat ladies are eating their cats?)
Vance’s awkward public appearances and utterances are why the nation found so much resonance in Walz’s seemingly offhand comment a few weeks ago that the Trump camp is just plain “weird.” Watch footage from Vance’s bizarre visit to a donut shop in Georgia in early September — where he bumbled through small talk with employees who clearly didn’t want to engage with him, then proceeded to order “just everything ... just whatever makes sense” — and try not to call it “weird.”
But Trump says and does things that transgress the normal social functioning of human beings practically every hour of every day, yet he retains a 42.9% favorability rate, according to “FiveThirtyEight” — eight points higher than his running mate. This is even after Trump’s disastrous debate with Harris, in which she rope-a-doped him into ranting and sputtering about his crowd sizes.
During their appearance on Oct. 1, both Vance and Walz appeared
Sudoku Solution
amiable enough, shaking hands before and after the debate and even agreeing with one another on occasion throughout. Was that “likable”? Maybe too much.
Walz’s much-touted “Rad Dad” mentality ended up letting “Mad Dad” Vance off the hook more than a few times, with very few challenges to his demonstrably incorrect and absurd statements. Walz only really landed anything on Vance by pointing out that the man he’s committed to serving under was instrumental in the violent attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021 and refused to admit that Trump lost in the 2020 election. That shouldn’t be considered brave or even particularly insightful — it’s just the truth.
In those instances, “likeability” did more harm than good to Americans’ ability to differentiate between the good and bad ideas being presented, and no one should “like” that.
Many people don’t realize that playing dead can help not only with bears, but also at important business meetings.
Laughing Matter
Solution on page 22 Solution on page 22
By Bill Borders
Week of the
1. to blur, as from a double impression in printing
“The printer malfunctioned and mackled the entire batch of invitations.”
Corrections: In the Sept. 19 edition of the paper we referred to the owners of Evans Brothers as Rick and Rick Evans, rather than Rick and Randy. We regret the error.
Rick and Randy get to punch Ben in the stomach as payback.
CROSSWORD
ACROSS
1. Product of combustion
6. Ship workers
10. National symbol
14. Cabs
15. Quiet down
16. Designed for flight
17. Go-between
18. Against
19. Kind of palm
20. Spicy cookie
22. Gunk
23. Adjust again
24. They connect points
25. French Sudan, today
Fire fighter 31. Beasts 33. Legislator
37. Paper fastener
38. Not idle 39. Brave deeds
41. Smiled scornfully 42. Shook up
44. Puts on 45. Sail supports 48. Talking bird of poetry
50. Arm bone
51. Creative writing 56. Temporarily give 57. Gulf port
58. Femme fatale
59. Fashionable 60. Sleeveless garment
Threesome
Story
Pretentious
10 in a decade
Male deer
Wise men
Beasts of burden
Sovereign
Aromatic compound
Auto frame
Jogger
Solution on page 22 8. Lands and wealth
Lash 10. Entranced
Gain knowledge
Debate 13. Merchandise
Mirror
Spear 25. Pulp 26. Initial wager 27. Teller of untruths
28. Emphasis
30. Wander aimlessly
32. Assumed name 34. Novice
You bake with it
Crimsons 40. One who walks purposefully
70
43. Most recent
Swindle
46. Hawaiian greeting 47. Symbol of slowness 49. Spiteful 51. Molten rock 52. Rubber wheel
