Reader_February22_2018

compiled by Susan Drinkard

DEAR READERS, (wo)MAN on the street

Feb. 19 was Presidents’ Day. Who do you think was the greatest president during your lifetime?

“Obama was the greatest president in my lifetime because he saved us from the brink of bankruptcy. He held himself and his family to the highest of standards. He was educated, well-spoken, and he cared about the environment and the world’s people. As hard as they tried, they could never find anything to discredit him.”

Kerry Kresge CNA Sandpoint

It’s the final week of Sandpoint’s 2018 Winter Carnival, and there’s a plethora of fun to be had. Check out our events page (and Lyndsie’s Winter Carnival article on page 13) for a full list of events.

If you haven’t had a chance to fill out our media survey yet, this is the last week to do so. It only takes 2-3 minutes, and it helps us determine what forms of media you consumer. It also helps us communicate with potential advertisers that our publication is being read by a wide audience, so your participation also helps the Reader Also, we’ll select a winning email address from those completed surveys and award the winner a $100 gift certificate to MickDuff’s Beer Hall.

Finally, I’d like to take a moment to express my admiration for the students of Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida who have turned this latest school shooting from a tragedy into a national conversation on responsible reforms on gun ownership. As a responsible gun owner, I believe there is no need for civilians to own military-style assault weapons, and I support the efforts of those survivors in Florida to help ban them. #NeverAgain.

-Ben Olson, Publisher

READER

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

www.sandpointreader.com

Publisher: Ben Olson ben@sandpointreader.com

Editor: Cameron Rasmusson cameron@sandpointreader.com

Zach Hagadone (emeritus) John Reuter (emeritus)

Advertising: Jodi Taylor Jodi@sandpointreader.com

“Franklin Roosevelt. He had the greatest problems to solve and he confronted them with aplomb and carried us through a very difficult period—the Great Depression.”

Charlie Glock - age 98

Retired professor of sociology at Columbia Univ. in New York Sandpoint

“Kennedy was a good President.”

Hazel Parsley

Retired housekeeper Sandpoint

“Ronald Reagan. For non-political reasons, he had personality, charm and a good work ethic. Politically, I liked his demeanor and presentation and his ability to quickly provide a retort to loaded political questions.”

Duane Deckert

Retired owner of a trucking company and Bell Helicopter logistics representative Sandpoint

“I’d have to say FDR because he had many good intentions, and he was successful. He had the Senate behind him. I was 11 when he died. I remember hearing what a great man he was.”

Nadine Rasor

Retired cook at many local restaurants

Valley Vista resident

Sandpoint

Contributing Artists: Schweitzer Mountain Resort (cover), Ben Olson, Susan Drinkard, Don Fisher.

Contributing Writers: Cameron Rasmusson, Ben Olson, Lyndsie Kiebert, Jodi Rawson, Nick Gier, Jeremy Conlin, Mayor Shelby Rognstad, Scarlette Quille, Ed Ohweiler, Sandy Compton, Jp Cortez, Bill Collier, Jen Heller, Ammi Midstokke, A.C. Woolnough, Drake the dog.

Submit stories to: stories@sandpointreader.com

Printed weekly at: Griffin Publishing Spokane, Wash.

Subscription Price: $95 per year

Web Content: Keokee

The Sandpoint Reader is a weekly publication owned and operated by Ben Olson and Keokee. It is devoted to the arts, entertainment, politics and lifestyle in and around Sandpoint, Idaho. We hope to provide a quality alternative by offering honest, in-depth reporting that reflects the intelligence and interests of our diverse and growing community.

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

SandpointReader letter policy:

The Sandpoint Reader welcomes letters to the editor on all topics. Requirements: –No more than 400 words –Letters may not contain excessive profanity or libelous material. Please elevate the discussion.

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

Email letters to: letters@sandpointreader.com

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

Like us on Facebook.

About the Cover

This week’s cover photographer was sent to us from Schweitzer Mountain Resort during this amazing week of skiing! Thanks guys.

By Lyndsie Kiebert and Ben Olson Reader Staff

Bonner County commissioners voted Tuesday to approve an advisory vote question for the May 15 primary ballot. The advisory vote will ask whether the voter supports or opposes the proposed Scotchman Peaks wilderness area in east Bonner County.

The advisory vote was proposed at the commissioners’ Jan. 9 business meeting, and finalized Tuesday when the question’s language was announced.

Though there was some confusion during the meeting over a word or two, the official wording will be: “Do you favor Senator Jim Rischs’ (sic) proposal for congressional designation of a 13,960-acre Scotchman Peaks area in Bonner County?”

Bailey said the commissioners worked with people on both sides of the wilderness debate to choose language for the question that everyone could agree on.

“We wanted something simple, easy to understand and clear,” he said.

led to his Jan. 9 proposal for the advisory vote. “What’s there to lose? At least we’ll see the true tenor of the public on this.”

McDonald told KRFY that they chose to put the advisory vote on the May ballot in order to get the results to Sen. Risch’s office as soon as possible.

“(Risch’s office) did a number of open houses, and they took information there, but they were the first ones to admit that they don’t consider that information to be scientifically valid because there were a lot of people from out of state that were for it and local people that were against it,” he said on KRFY.

However, in a Jan. 11 email from Risch’s North Idaho Regional Director Sid Smith to McDonald, obtained via public records request, Smith expressed concern regarding McDonald’s comments on KRFY.

Wilderness vote ready for May ballot Library launches media literacy talks

While it’s a federal decision whether the land becomes wilderness, the commissioners agreed that they will either support or oppose the proposal depending on how the county votes.

Commissioner Dan McDonald has said he personally does not support the wilderness designation, while commissioners Jeff Connolly and Bailey have said they do support it.

McDonald explained the reasoning behind the advisory vote in a Jan. 10 interview on KRFY Panhandle Community Radio.

“The battle over Scotchman Peaks started with the Friends of Scotchman Peaks claiming they have widespread support … and at first I believed that, until I started hearing from the huge number of people that were opposed to that,” he said, noting that this realization (along with a request from the Republican Central Committee) ultimately

“What I want to make clear is the fact that all the numbers I relayed to you, the percentages for and against, were calculated from comments given to Senator Risch by Idaho residents ONLY,” he wrote, adding that McDonald’s comment about out-of-staters being for the proposal and locals being against it “directly contradicts the numbers” Smith quoted him during a phone call before Christmas.

“I allowed that the numbers weren’t like a scientific poll such as a Gallup or Rasmussen poll, however, it is you who are trying to make the connection to the out-of-state residents at the open houses — not me,” Smith wrote.

McDonald said his phone call with Smith “was a bit different than what (Smith) represents in the email.”

When asked whether he believes his personal opposition to the wilderness proposal may change the way he presents information to the public, McDonald said, “no more than those who support the plan have made comments that are supported by facts.”

In 2015, then-commissioners Todd Sudick and Cary Kelly, as

well as Glen Bailey, unanimously passed a resolution calling for the U.S. Congress to designate the Idaho portion of the Scotchman Peaks as a wilderness.

“The Scotchmans is a perfect area for wilderness,” then-commissioner Cary Kelly said. “It’s one of the few areas that commissioners can support as wilderness. It’s kind of the exception to the rule.”

“The job of commissioners is to listen to the people and make hard decisions based on facts,” McDonald wrote in an email.

“My position is that putting almost 14,000 acres away forever, with no forest or wildlife maintenance and that only serve a special interest are not in the best interest of all of Bonner County.”

According to John Sandy, Sen. Risch’s chief of staff, the county is entitled to do what it feels best, but he said the wording of the question was “wrong.”

“Risch doesn’t really have a proposal, we’re still gathering information,” said Sandy. “He doesn’t have any stand on this one way or another. … We took the input that people had a year and a half ago and submitted that as a piece of legislation, but it really wasn’t a proposal. … All it was an advisory thing. But it’s

fine for the commissioners (to hold this vote). It’s their county.”

When asked if the outcome of the advisory vote would impact

Sen. Risch’s decision to introduce a wilderness bill, Sandy said, “Maybe.”

By Reader Staff

The East Bonner County Library District is hosting a three-part series on media literacy beginning this Wednesday.

The first event in the series begins with a discussion of fake news featuring Sandpoint Reader Editor Cameron Rasmusson as a presenter and resource. With false information rampant on the internet, how can consumers distinguish trustworthy reporting from fabricated stories? How do journalists verify their stories and pursue accurate information? What should a person make of fake news accusations from individuals in power? The

presentation will cover these questions and more.

The next session, which takes place March 28, features Professor Geoff Carr presenting on ethics in media. The session will explore the limits of free speech and how technology has challenged those limits.

The final session, set for April 25, will cover the future of media literacy.

The first session takes place 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 28, at the Heartwood Center Grove Room, 615 Oak St. It is free with no pre-registration required. Call Mike Bauer for at 208-265-2665 for more information.

County adopts Natural Resource Plan

By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff Writer

Bonner County commissioners voted 3-0 Tuesday to adopt the Natural Resource Plan after four years of writing, workshopping and public debate.

The plan, drafted by a commissioner-appointed committee, is nearly 100 pages long and outlines Bonner County’s goals for its natural resources.

Commissioner Glen Bailey said federal agencies are required to work with counties on natural resource issues as mandated by the federal coordination clause. However, those agencies are only required to take the county’s desires into consideration if their goals are published in an officially adopted plan.

“As with any such plan it must be understood that it was written for today, for our current

county commissioners to use as they best can,” Bailey said. “This plan is not law. It can be changed.”

The final public hearing for the plan saw a packed house on Jan. 17, when more than 20 people made statements opposing the plan. Commissioners said Tuesday that the document has seen several revisions since that meeting.

Commissioner Jeff Connolly questioned whether the plan

would have any power over state agencies, seeing as they don’t adhere to the coordination clause.

“I’m not sure that this pertains to state lands at all,” he said. “I’m really quite curious whether this has any real standing with the state, but I’m willing to move forward with it.”

Bailey said the Natural Resource Plan will be reviewed in its entirety at least every other year.

Commissioner Dan McDonald thanked the Natural Resource

Committee for spending over four years on the document.

County Assessor Jerry Clemons said that if any future board of commissioners looks to amend the plan, he hopes they take plenty of time.

“I hope they study it as you have,” he said to the current board. “I’m hoping a future board won’t make any knee-jerk changes.”

City ponders wastewater treatment plant options

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff

Does the city stay, or should it go?

That’s the central question council members face as they ponder a proposed expansion to the wastewater treatment plant.

While a move to city-owned property on Baldy Mountain Road would provide greater flexibility and open new options for increased water quality, remaining at the current site along the lakeside near Memorial Field could save costs.

According to Steve James of JUB Engineers, a contractor on the project, striking a balance between water quality and cost is key for the plan.

“It doesn’t make sense to have really clean water if nobody can afford it,” James said.

With the city’s wastewater treatment permit up in 2022,

officials face the additional requirement of treating for phosphorous. Expanding the treatment plant will satisfy that and other additional requirements that may be necessary for a permit, as well as update aging infrastructure.

The Baldy Mountain Road property offers several advantages, James said. It’s a big site, allowing for a more flexible design and much easier construction. However, at three miles away from the existing site, the city may have to install expensive piping and pump systems. On the other hand, staying at the existing site allows the city to phase in elements gradually, leading to a more manageable cost. Because the site is so crammed with equipment, however, something will need to be removed to make way for new upgrades.

Opening the project up to the Baldy Mountain Road site would also allow the use of new water treatment technologies. According to James, JUB Engineers narrowed the options down from 40 technologies to a final four. The MBR and BioMag treatment technologies offer high water quality, have relatively small size footprints and utilize both sites, but they are also the most expensive options. MBR requires the most energy to function, while BioMag has somewhat reduced energy requirements and water quality.

An upgrade to the existing technology offers a reduced cost, requires a moderate amount of energy and only requires the existing site. However, it has the weakest water quality rating.

Finally, EAAS technol-

Applications accepted for Task Force grants

By Reader Staff

Each year the Bonner County Human Rights Task Force (BCHRTF) seeks to fund projects and programs that support its stated mission; to affirm the American principles and ideals of the inviolable dignity and worth of each human being and recognize that everyone is equal under our state and federal laws and constitutions.

ogy has the largest building footprint and demands the increased space of the new site. However, it has low energy requirements and better water quality than the existing technology. The cost of construction is moderate but bears the additional expense of pump installations.

Planning for the wastewater treatment plant project has unfolded with guidance from the public. A community advisory committee consisting of city officials, local business owners, representatives of major industries and local residents has offered input for what promises to be an expensive, rigorous project. Meanwhile, a technical advisory committee of professionals and city representatives has helped hash out the fine engineering details of the many options under consideration.

BCHRTF was founded in 1992 to support human rights through community education and advocacy. In December 2012 the major portion of BCHRTF’s assets were placed in a fund administered by the Idaho Community Foundation (ICF). Grants are limited to those organizations or entities who do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. The BCHRTF hopes to sponsor programs and projects that enhance human rights, focus on community education and celebrate the fact that it is the racial, social, and cultural diversity of our people that makes Bonner County a rich and worthwhile place to live.

Applications may be submitted on line directly to the Idaho Community Foundation under Donor Advised Competitive Grants. Go to the Bonner County Human Rights Task Force Fund for more detailed guidelines and information. The deadline for this year is March 31.

Eligible applicants must be organizations with a 501(c)3 tax exempt status, a public educational institution or a governmental entity including local governments or libraries. Grants up to $8,000 will be accepted, with the average award last year being about $2,250.

Bouquets:

• A bouquet goes out to the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce for the work they do putting on our annual Winter Carnival here in Sandpoint. Also included are all the local business owners and volunteers who help make this event special.

Barbs

• We’ve been publishing weekly profiles with candidates for office, starting with the gubernatorial race. Out of all the candidates, every single one of them responded and followed through with an interview except one - Raul Labrador. We’re disappointed that, after several emails and attempts, Labrador failed to take the time to talk with us. When you’re running for office, it seems the easiest thing to do to answer some questions and communicate with your constituents, but apparently there are more important things for Mr. Labrador than Sandpoint voters.

•Idaho Sen. Dan Foreman, R-Moscow gets the big barb of the week. Foreman is facing an ethics complaint after he yelled at a group of University of Idaho students who had traveled 300 miles for a scheduled meeting with their state senator to discuss birth control legislation. Foreman reportedly flew off the handle at the students, yelling “abortion is murder.” Also, an unverified Twitter account told the students to, “go talk about killing babies with” a Democratic senator. There is no excuse for this bullying behavior. State senators, whether they agree with their constituents’ concerns or not, should always treat us, the people they represent, with respect and dignity. Vote, people.

This isn’t the first outburst by Foreman, either. Last year, body camera video from a sheriff’s deputy showed Foreman swearing and shouting insults with an unseen an unidentified male on Sept. 14. The deputy asked Foreman to move along. I’d like to say I’m surprised that this man was elected, but this is Idaho after all.

•Finally, I thought I’d point out Idaho members of Congress that are supported by the NRA and how much the organization has donated to each:

Sen. Mike Crapo—$29,300

Sen. Jim Risch—$13,900

Rep. Raul Labrador—$8,100

Rep. Mike Simpson—$43,750

COMMUNITY

‘More parties, less meetings’ Support a local farm this February

Friends of Scotchman Peaks releases party/meeting schedule

By Reader Staff

Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness’s (FSPW) board chairman Doug Ferrell has noted that one of the reason FSPW is successful is because FSPW has “more parties and less meetings.” In keeping with that policy, FSPW is pleased to announce that the Friends have a couple of months of parties coming up.

Thursday, Feb. 22: FSPW takes over MickDuff’s Beer Hall with a wild version of MickDuff’s-style trivia. Our first ever Wilderness Trivia Night will feature four person teams with a $5 team buy-in, and the option of buying an extra point (or two) for $5 each. Wilderness geek ringers may be available to the highest bidder. There will be prizes and bragging rights, of course. The night features no-host pizza and beer from 6-8 p.m. The Trivia Contest begins at 7 p.m. (No smartphones allowed.) Beer sales, pizza sales, entry fees, point purchases, raffles and judge bribes will all benefit Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness.

March 4 – 6: FSPW hosts uber-hiker Liz Thomas, whose new book “Backpacker Long Trails: Mastering the Art of the Thru-Hike,” is the winner of a 2017 National Outdoor Book Award. Thomas will lead a hike on Star Peak on March 4 before a gathering at the Outskirts Gallery in Hope in the afternoon for a social hour meet and greet and book signing. Thomas will also be

Bonner

signing her book at The Well-Read Moose in Coeur d’ Alene, at Bonners Books in Bonners Ferry and Vanderford’s Books in Sandpoint.

Tuesday, March 13: FSPW will be at the Pend Oreille Winery for the annual Sip and Shop event. This is a good excuse to have a glass of good red and feel good about the final result. The winery will donate a percentage of sales between 4-7 p.m. to the Friends of Scotchman Peaks.

April 4: Idaho Pour Authority will host our Winter Tracks Volunteer appreciation party, beginning at 5 p.m. Georgetown Brewery will be there to help with the festivities, which will include a big raffle with prizes from FSPW and Georgetown. Winter Tracks volunteers will be recognized for their service in outdoor education, and those who wear their FSPW volunteer hat will get their first beer free.

April 5 and 6: Montana conservationist, wildlife expert and author Jim Posewitz will be presenting his new book, “My Best Shot,” in Libby. “Pos” will first be at the Cabinet Mountains Brewery Brews For Benefits night on Thursday, April 5, for a meet and greet and book signing. On April 6, he will give a free public presentation at the Maki Theater in Libby about his career with Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks.

April 20: Evans Brothers’ Coffee will be the venue for an artist’s reception for some of the FSPW “Extreme Plein Air” artists, including painters Ed Robinson and

County Democrats host Pizza and Politics event

By Reader Staff

A slice of pizza and a dose of political update are being offered to the community this Saturday, Feb. 24, by the Bonner County Democrat Central Committee at their annual Pizza and Politics event, 12 p.m. at the Heartwood Center, 615 Oak Street, Sandpoint. “We’ll hear legislative updates from Idaho House Minority

Aaron Johnson and photographers Joe Foster and Marjolein Groot Nibbelink. Their work — much of which will be for sale — will be hanging in the gallery at Evans Brothers from early April until mid-May. The images on display will all be of the Scotchman Peaks interior and gathered on one of the extended back-packing trip FSPW invites artists to participate each summer.

Just a little farther out on the calendar, beyond the May 15 advisory vote (find out more at www.voteforscotchmanpeaks.org), is the annual State of the Scotchmans event, to be held this year on Thursday, May 31, at the Oden Hall on Sunnyside Road. Mountain goat expert Gayle Joslin will be our featured speaker.

Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness has a serious side as well, advocating for Wilderness designation for the Scotchman Peaks Roadless area northeast of Clark Fork; helping kids find out about the outdoors; taking care of trails and helping with weed eradication, whitebark pine propagation and mountain goat education. But there’s nothing that says the Friends can’t have a good time doing all that. And they do.

Learn more at www.scotchmanpeaks.org

By Katherine Creswell Reader Contributor

Do your health and community a good deed and sign up for a Community Supported Agriculture program at a local farm this winter. This time of year farmers across the country make a big push to advertise their farms and gain membership in their CSA programs.

Community Supported Agriculture is great for members because they get to put a face on their food, and have access to some of the best produce money can buy. The model is great for farmers too, as we get payment up front, which helps us buy seeds and supplies for the upcoming season, and we don’t have to spend precious time during the growing months marketing our products and looking for buyers.

Participating farms in and around Bonner County can be found on LocalHarvest.org and CSADay.info/directory. Moose Meadow Farm in Clark Fork currently has openings for their program, which has delivery to Clark Fork and Sandpoint once a week May through October. Visit moosemeadoworganic.com/signupfor more info.

Katherine Creswell is the owner of Moose Meadow Farm in Clark Fork.

Kinnikinnick Native Plant Society presentations

By Reader Staff

Leader Mat Erpelding (District 19, north Boise) and other elected and appointment officials” said Sylvia Humes, chair of the Bonner County Democrat Central Committee.

The free event is co-sponsored by Reclaim Idaho, Medicaid for Idaho and Idaho Democrat Legislative Central Committee.

Everyone is invited. Pizza and beverages will be served! Questions? Call 208-304-2995

Sandpoint Parks and Recreation and the Kinnikinnick Native Plant Society bring you free monthly presentations at Community Hall (204 S. First Ave).

The presentations cover a variety of natural resource related topics ranging from wildflower identification, to forest tree management, to mushroom gathering, and much more. Presentations take place from 9:45 a.m.-11:30 a.m. the fourth Saturday of September, October, November and January through

June. No need to pre-register.

The Feb. 24 presentation is “Selkirk Mountain Caribou Recovery and Arboreal Lichen Collection Project” given by Cheryl Moody, executive director of the Selkirk Conservation Alliance.

For more information about the Native Plant Society or upcoming KNPS programs visit their web site at: www.nativeplantsociety. org, or visit Sandpoint Parks and Recreation at 1123 Lake St., and online at www.sandpointidaho. gov/parksrecreation

By Jodi Rawson Reader Contributor

Sandpoint is a land of plenty with a lot of poverty. There are those living in excess, and there are those battling deprivation daily. The property taxes the wealthy elite pay for their mansions each year exceeds the yearly income of a working family. In the winter, one community member might hunger for the latest gear and a nicer mountain condo, while another community member, who has never been to Schweitzer, is hungry for food.

The poor are always with us, but after Christmas, people often forget. Debbie Love, director of our local food bank, says that the shelves are a little bare around this time of year, but the hunger is as present as ever. Love says there has been an increase in “clientele” when the government food stamp program dramatically decreased benefits last October. On the other end of the spectrum are the richest corporations that have no intention of sharing the trillion dollars of tax breaks they will reap this year.

Value of the Natural Resource Plan Hungry: for food or understanding?

By Jeremy Conlin Reader Contributor

The misrepresentations of the Natural Resource Plan are reminiscent of the machinations during the period of 1880-1920.

“The Progressive Era,” by Murray Rothbard, especially chapter eight regarding Theodore Roosevelt, is useful regarding the Plan and how it relates to the Scotchman Peaks issue. As stated by Leonard Bronson, then (1911) the manager of the National Lumber Manufacturers’ Association: “…from a selfish standpoint alone the heavy timber owners of the West are heartily in favor of the (forest) reserves: for the mere establishment of these reserves has increased the value of the holdings very heavily by withdrawing from the market timber which otherwise would be competitive…” Reduce the supply, raise the prices and the profits for established owners and raise the barriers of entry to newer competitors.

The average national wage notoriously fails to keep up with the substantial increases each year to our basic costs of living. Idaho is a “right to work” state, which means our minimum wage is trumped by other neighboring states. Furthermore, Bonner County has an average of 54.5 percent of the school children eligible for free or reduced lunches. The national average is 52 percent.

Love has also seen an increase in homelessness in our area, “which is interesting and very sad.” Love has lived in Sandpoint for 10 years and has been the director of the Bonner Community Food Center for two years. Prior to this position, Love was the director of the Pend Oreille Arts Council for three years, which helped her make a lot of community connections.

Love admits that she was not aware of the needs in this community prior to directing the Bonner Community Food Center, which has two locations, one near the airport and the other in Priest River.

In 2017 over 800 families were served, and there were 18,500

visits. They operate without government assistance and are funded through grants, fundraisers and private donations. When a person comes in hungry, they are able to explain their need to a real person and go home with something to eat. In contrast, the government-funded food stamp program has a uniformed guard, the hungry draw a number and they are expected to have proper paperwork and wait.

Sandpoint has been blessed with a food bank for over 30 years. In 2011 they moved into their current location where they opened up a “market.” The market is a room with shelves and refrigeration where the client is able to shop for their groceries. Not only does this provide dignity to those in need, but it also eliminates waste by ensuring everyone is getting only what they are hungry for.

Day-old dairy products, bakery products, produce or slightly damaged packaged items are provided by the “grocery rescue program,” a program which all local grocery stores participate. Shelf-stable items like tuna and peanut butter

are stocked through food drive or cash donations.

The Bonner Community Food Center also has a “food share program” which provides places like Kinderhaven and the Senior Center with food. They are working with nutritionists from the University of Idaho to raise awareness and provide recipes using the food available at the food banks. Last year Love helped spearhead a community garden. Soon to be expanded to nine beds, this on-site garden provides clients with gardening opportunities and fresh produce.

A couple local food bank statistics to consider: 70 percent of the local clients are relying on Social Security as their primary source of income. On average these are elder community members surviving on $800 per month for all of their living expenses. About 46 percent of the local clients only visit the food bank five times or less each year. These are people who have had medical emergencies, transitions in work, or any other unforeseen event which can cause temporary monetary needs and hunger.

The future of our country may have an even sharper contrast between the rich and the poor. It is vital that those living in excess have an understanding for the needs in their community and take action to help (food or monetary donations to the Bonner Community Food Center are always appreciated). Hunger always causes weakness, and Sandpoint is only as strong as its weakest link.

“We help a lot of people,” said Love. “You just never know who is going to walk through the door.”

John Hancock Insurance Company owns vast acres of land for long-term investment purposes. By restricting the availability of timber, such as the unnecessarily large proposal for the Scotchman Peaks, the value of the investment increases. Stimson Lumber and The Idaho Forest Group, local owners of local timberland, would also reap the reward of reduced supply and competition. As illustrated in “The Progressive Era,” the back-room dealing between the timber owners and the government decision makers has to be understood. Ask Sen. Keough, who would benefit if the timber supply was reduced. As stated by Mr. Rothbard “Where government takes resources off the market, the aim is to restrict and cartelize lands or resource industries.”

“Pressed by their critics… the forestry advocates …fell back upon enthusiasm, and, on occasion, on duplicity. ….the conservationists, as progressives

were wont to do, framed their arguments in moralistic terms by stigmatizing their enemies as militarists, monopolists, traditionalists…” (Rothbard). Not much has changed.

The introduction to the plan states it is “… a document for local government to use as a plan and policy statement … representing … a broad spectrum of interests, including Logging, Agricultural, Construction, Business, Recreation, Conservation …”. The cherry-picking mischaracterizations and over-simplification by some critics of the plan misleads everyone.

“Proper management of these lands will insure a stable long term income stream for both State and County.”

The Montana Property and Environment Research Center (perc.org) has numerous reports proving how our state has been more efficient and rewarding with timber and recreation resources than the federal agencies. Despite

the frequent seeds of doubt, Idaho has shown that it does have the ability to properly manage local resource treasures. Better to pay salaries to local employees than to administrators thousands of miles away. The federal government is already is leaving trails and forest unattended, with tragic and expensive consequences. The more money woes continue, the more our local forests and waterways are threatened.

Appendix C of the plan provides several federal codes and court cases spelling out the need for coordination. Who would complain if any federal agency suddenly stated that they would begin chemically treating Lake Pend Oreille in July without any coordination with local authorities?

Would sportsmen’s groups prefer to see their outdoors cared for by the most qualified individuals and groups possible? Increasingly that means local people who are more personally attached to local

values. More local jobs means more local responsibility and care.

Today’s progressives are little different than those in the Progressive Era. When facts get in the way, personal attacks and moralistic mischaracterizations follow. Consider the motivations of those who criticize the plan. Who really benefits?

The Bonner County commissioners would be well served, as would all citizens, by having in place a plan to coordinate with other decision-makers. Without any plan we would be in an inferior position and working from behind. The commissioners would be criticized if they did not have a plan for dealing with disaster emergencies. A plan to deal with our natural resources is also needed. Even a waffling commissioner would be standing on a firmer platform of leadership. Being prepared is better leadership than being dependent.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Scientists Say...?

Dear Editor,

Enough, already. I find it curious that months later my LTE still evokes responses. I can’t help but get depressed after reading reader comments regarding global warming/climate change. I know that being Bonner County, a certain amount of backwardness is to be expected, if not encouraged, but please folks, give it a rest.

Perhaps one of you budding geniuses out there can explain what is meant by “scientists say,” because that’s the only response I hear to counter any argument which proposes an alternative reason for the radical earth changes the planet has been experiencing over the last two decades. So forgive me if my eyes don’t glaze over and I faint deadaway because you say “scientists say.” The earth changes we are witnessing have nothing (or scant little) to do with greenhouse gasses or the amount of C02 in the atmosphere.

But, you retort, “95 percent of all scientists say (blah, blah, blah.)” Or, “35,000 scientists all agree that (here you may insert your own personal belief because as portrayed in the mass media, the subject has all the trappings of a religion, complete with its own environmental .)” Where are all these scientists? Did they gather in some big auditorium and personally admit their views, or did they make a check in a box on a piece of paper for a mail-in questionnaire? Were they pressured to go along with the accepted group-think where billions of dollars in the form of grants and funding are at stake? Were they afraid of peer pressure if their answer went counter to convention?

Or, the most likely answer: These scientists have absolutely no idea what they are talking about. Lest we forget, in the name of ethnic purity, scientists in Nazi Germany argued for the elimination of the insane or physically challenged.

So what’s the easier sell to a highly-propagandized public: earth-penetrating tomography or guilt? The auroral electrojet or a self-recriminatory carbon footprint? Most of you so-called environmentalists wouldn’t know an occluded front from a pound of red meat, so gimme a break.

Cort Gifford Sandpoint

State of the Union...

Dear Editor,

The House/Senate Democrats reaction to the SOTU (State of the Union) was, in my opinion, childish. They couldn’t bring themselves to stand when POTUS celebrated our National Anthem and our flag? Personally, it angered me. But before you sufferers of Partisan Blindness Syndrome (PBS) get your knickers in a knot, I recognize PBS is virulent in both parties, and with the annual SOTU the egomaniacal, moronic arrogance of the minority

party-du-jour is on full display, i.e. sit like stumps with facial expressions indicative of constipation.

PBS-infected Congressmen self-righteously claim President Trump is a mentally unstable narcissist who should resign. Newsflash: if every Congressman that is a mentally unstable narcissist were to resign, the House and Senate chambers would resemble a mausoleum.

Really though, with leaders like McConnell, Schumer, Ryan and Pelosi in charge, what do we have to worry about? It’s good we voters reelect these altruistic intellectual titans.

God bless America, and God bless our military.

Steve Brixen Sandpoint

Elect Mike Boeck...

Dear Editor,

We are fortunate to have Mike Boeck running for state representative in District 1A. He is a common sense man of integrity who gets things done.

As a fourth-generation North Idahoan, Mike has worked 40 years in the natural resource industry as both a mill manager and timberland manager. He knows how to create solutions that benefit the region with both jobs and improved roads and bridges. He worked with transportation officials on key projects, including rebuilding a section of Highway 2 and replacing the bridge at Priest River.

Among numerous other civic activities, Mike was influential in efforts to bring sewer and water to the east side of the Pend Oreille River.

Mike knows first-hand how crucial quality public education is for Idaho’s future. His wife, Dee, worked at Sandpoint Middle School for 10 years, teaching seventh grade and in administration. She has also worked at a private school for at-risk students. Mike served on the committee that established the West Bonner School District and will advocate for job-ready skills training in the schools.

Most importantly, Mike knows how to listen and is interested in the concerns of all citizens. North Idaho deserves a strong and respected leader. Mike offers a positive change from Heather Scott. Vote for Mike Boeck on the Republican ballot in the May 15, 2018 primary election.

For more information go to mikeboeckforidaho.com

Theresia S. Hood Sagle

To Speaker Ryan...

Dear Speaker Ryan, My name is Bob Over, and I live in Sagle, Idaho.

I am deeply concerned with the direction that you, as the Speaker of the House, and the Republican Party are taking our country.

Why is it that you and the Republican Party are so hesitant to stand up for even the basic guiding principles of

humanity, but instead persist in following the lead of a divisive president that is so lacking in fundamental leadership skills, truthfulness, maturity, judgment, common sense, the law, human values and rights, strategic international diplomacy and self-control? By not addressing these major leadership issues with President Trump and the Republican Party I strongly believe that you are not only placing our country in serious peril, but destroying the Republican Party. This is really troubling. I say this as a Democrat who believes in a two-party system of government, which has built-in mechanisms of checks and balances. Not unlike yourself, I also believe that we have many problems in this country that need to be dealt with, but do you really believe that the form of government that you are supporting is the best way to address our country’s critical challenges? I would like to think better of you.

Why is it that the Republican Party is so concentrated on protecting itself, along with a toxic president, at the cost of not supporting the best interests, and the national security of our country? Should it not be country over party? Have we as a country lost our values and moral compass? It appears to me that the Republican Party is rapidly taking our country down a path towards a very bleak future. How can you, as Speaker of the House, in good conscience, allow this to happen? Is this how you define a democracy and the future of our country?

I have tried to understand and respect a different point of view and perspective but keep coming back to the same conclusion. I now find it most difficult and embarrassing to call myself a proud American. Please help me understand your reasoning.

Thank you in anticipation of your possible response.

Respectfully yours,

Bob Over Sagle

Dear Editor,

A few months ago I read a May, 2011, Scientific American article, “Trust Me, I’m a Scientist, why so many people choose not to believe what scientists say.”

I love science. I subscribed to Scientific American all through high school. However, what follows are some reasons why I, at times, do not trust some scientists and their research.

Many scientists have been bought with large amounts of money by corporate entities to promote a particular position that these corporate entities want the public to believe, e.g., fossil fuel industry (discredit climate change science), big tobacco, big pharmaceuticals, pesticide manufacturers and GMO companies like Monsanto.

When government agencies such as the FDA are stacked with “scientists” and administrators who once worked for those they are supposed to be overseeing; this does not instill much

confidence in the “science” they are doing.

Marijuana has been lumped in with hard drugs such as heroin and cocaine by government scientists for years. The DARE program was based on this government “science” and assumed school kids, those this program was aimed at, are idiots and would believe what they are told. The DARE program did far more harm than good. These kids were not stupid. After trying marijuana these kids realized they were being lied to by these government “scientists” and figured these government “scientists” must be lying about the hard drugs too.

When some scientific disciplines behave as a religion, like Darwinism and Egyptology, how can we take these self-serving scientists seriously?

Some of the most jealous, myopic and narrow-minded people are scientists. To offer a challenge to their belief system, one risks being labeled a heretic, (as happened to Immanuel Velikovsky), especially if a challenge is presented that questions a scientist’s position that he/she has spent a lifetime pursuing. These scientists will vigorously defend their “science” so as to continue receiving funding.

The scientific community should be ashamed of itself for the way it attacked and vilified Velikovsky. One of those attackers was Carl Sagan who eventually adopted some of Velikovsky’s ideas as though they were his own. Intellectual plagiarism.

Any evidence that is an anomaly and/or does not support a scientist’s particular position, more often than not, gets swept under the rug to be ignored. To me that is bad science. See the website Science Frontiers (http:// www.science-frontiers.com/sourcebk. htm) which is a catalog of anomalies.

Lee Santa Sandpoint

Honest Conversation...

Dear Editor,

It may be acceptable to rabid partisans if their favorite candidate or opinionator misrepresents the facts or misleads the voters, but professional journalists know that their code of ethics calls for them to “verify information before releasing it,” “take special care to not misrepresent or oversimplify” or to “never deliberately distort facts or context.”

Sometimes errors do occur and professionals learn and make concerted efforts to improve. Someone, of course, needs to point out the mistakes. In that light, Commissioner McDonald had every right, and should be appreciated for his courage to do so, to correct Publisher Olson’s oversights. The commissioner did not, contrary to the overly sensitive emotional frailty of some who distort merely because of a cultured bias, express in the Reader any disregard of or disrespect for Publisher Olson. Rather, Commissioner McDonald, in an adult fashion, clarified the facts regarding the to-be ballot issue.

Publisher Olson might have felt a

little sting, as would most people, but as a professional he has more likely learned from it and will improve himself and his product. It is nice to hear from our elected officials at times other than when they are seeking re-election.

Hopefully, the Reader will continue to encourage to seek and accept the opinions of everyone.

Jeremy Conlin Sandpoint

Mr. Conlin,

It’s swell that you Googled the journalism code of ethics and all, but I’m still unclear as to how I misrepresented any facts in my barb.

I simply pointed out, by using data obtained by the Bonner County Elections Office, that I felt an advisory vote on the proposed Scotchman Peak Wilderness Bill during the primaries as opposed to the general election is not a true representation of the people. Those registered as Republican vote at a much higher rate during the primaries than do independents and Democrats. McDonald’s letter didn’t actually dispute my facts because they are accurate. His letter simply changed the narrative and claimed my “sin of omission” made it inaccurate. It didn’t.

Also, it needs to be said: the barbs column is an opinion column, not news. You’re treating it as if it’s a hard news column. Please don’t. Opinions are subjective – if you don’t agree with them, it doesn’t make them inaccurate.

ThecurrentCommissioners,under McDonald’slead,seemhellbentontanking thisproposedbill,whichisoddsincethe commissioners in 2015 voted unanimouslytosupportit.Whathaschanged?

If you want to talk about a misrepresentation of facts, how about Commissioner Dan McDonald speaking on KRFY 88.5 FM on Jan. 10, 2018. When speaking about the proposed wilderness bill, Commissioner McDonald claimed that Sen. Risch’s office “...didn’t consider (collected comments at open houses) to be scientific, because there were a lot of people from out of state who were for it and a lot of locals who were against it...” It was this claim that caused Sid Smith, Sen. Risch’s North Idaho Regional Director, to email McDonald upbraiding him for promoting false information and putting words in their mouth.

In an email obtained via a public records request by the Reader, Smith wrote to McDonald: “If we received any comments from out of state residents at Hope or Clark Fork, whether they were from Washington, Montana or the four corners of the Union, we did not count them in the percentages ... that would be your conclusion, and one that directly contradicts the numbers I quoted to you ... it is you who are trying to make the connection to the out-of-state residents at the open houses - not me.”

Ismyresponse“adult”enoughforyou?

-Ben Olson, publisher.

HUMOR

Don’t

I live in the United States. I am not a member of law enforcement or a government agency. I am like most of you reading this. I am a mom, a daughter, a sister, someone who likes a cold drink and good laughs. I am also a teacher — just like you. Yes, you.

You may not get paid for your role in shaping youth as I do. You may not even particularly like kids. Heck, you may not have signed up for this shit. Like it or not, as an adult living in a community you are a teacher. You are a lesson to those around you. I think somehow as a society we have forgotten this. We say, “Oh, thank God he/she doesn’t have kids,” when another adult is caught doing something unsavory in the community. Somehow, the choice to not bear children softens the severity of deplorable or unsafe behavior. Getting a DUI is bad, but it is somehow worse if you have kids? Wearing revealing clothes is OK, unless you are a parent. Right?

Wrong. Adults, we are all teachers, every single one of us, and we are doing a pisspoor job of teaching our children, the future of our country, how to peacefully exist within a community. We set the example. We are horrified about teen suicide, smartphone usage and social media misuse, but we participate. We sling insults and point the finger of blame in the other direction. We rant, we bully, we don’t put down our phones. That’s the example we are setting for our kids. Is it surprising that they feel angry? Confused? You could be the best parent in the world, but sooner or later your kid is exposed to the outside world and other adults, and guess what? Your children are paying attention to those adults. That dude down the street with the sweet truck and revolving door of girlfriends, he seems a lot cooler than dad. Maybe he is cooler than dad, maybe he always says “hi” or lets your kid walk his dog. You won’t even let your kid have a dog.

You see where I am going? We are all teachers — passive teachers in some cases, but teachers just the same. And if you have forgotten this, you need to take a look at what and who you might be teaching. We all do. The good news, passive teachers, is that you have a very simple subject to teach: no standardized tests, and the curriculum has not changed for hundreds of years. What is

be an asshole

this lesson?

DON’T BE AN ASSHOLE.

It’s simple. It works. I use it in my classroom, I use it with my kids, I try my best to hold myself to this rule. I understand all of you folks out there who love to make rules to control other people’s behavior will struggle with a one-rule concept, but hear me out. Once you understand that most rules and laws are developed to curb, slow down, or consequence asshole behavior, it becomes easier to follow them.

Time for an example. Once my daughter came home from school a hot mess. She had gotten a “refocus,” or pink slip at school, for running up the slide. She broke a rule, and she was in tears. I said, “OK, you broke a rule, you finished your consequence. Are you going to do it again?” She had to think on that one (apparently running up the slide is quite fun when you are seven), but ultimately she agreed it wasn’t in her best interest. Now had she reacted differently — let’s say the teacher said “stop running up the slide” and my daughter had responded with a “f*** you” — I would have given her a very difficult and time-consuming consequence, including a handwritten apology. For what? You guessed it: being an asshole. However, she had accepted her consequence and done her time without resorting to asshole tactics like blaming others for her behavior, and so her consequence was done.

Keeping to a few simple but important rules makes running a household or even a business meeting more efficient. The kids who spend time at my house or in my classroom know my rule, and although I may have changed my language slightly for different age groups or a professional atmosphere, the gist is always, “Don’t be an asshole.” This works because it gives the adults the power to teach and decide what asshole behavior is. We can’t make enough rules to address the myriad of ridiculous shit that our children can and will think of doing. It takes away arguments like: There is no rule specifically forbidding me sticking a paintbrush in a light socket. How many times have we heard adults in our lives looking for a specific loophole because there was not a rule expressly forbidding a common sense no-no? Our courtrooms are bogged down with people suing each other, when most of the time, one or both of the parties

are just being assholes. Rules and laws are weird and arbitrary, and we adults break them all the time. I have broken the speed limit. I have worn opentoed shoes to work when I wasn’t supposed to. Teaching kids that breaking a rule while breaking a rule is confusing. It’s hard to explain to a kid why they are not allowed to wear certain clothes to school, or why they can’t pee in the pool. It’s all arbitrary. The important lesson in life is that consistently being an asshole, will ruin your relationships, your community and keep you from reaching your potential. Think about it: Most of the bad things in our lives happened because someone was being an asshole, and that someone was you at least half the time. Parents, I challenge you to try this. I encourage you to empower the other adults around you, and help them teach your children. Start with something easy: I asked you to do the dishes, three times, you are still playing Xbox. Not listening when people talk to you is asshole behavior, thus you have earned yourself a consequence. As parents we need to stop protecting our kids from the consequence of being an asshole. If your single neighbor calls you up and says, “Little Timmy keeps throwing rocks at my dog,” say thank you for taking the time to tell you that, “Timmy is being an asshole.” Don’t get defensive and blame the neighbor for not understanding your parenting hardships. Get off the phone and handle your child’s asshole behavior. It’s really that simple. If you see a kid or adult being an asshole, tell them to stop.

It’s time we try something different, because the old standard — The Golden Rule’s “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” — just doesn’t cut it this day and age. Conceptually, the Golden Rule sounds great, but in theory it leaves to much room for interpretation. Like, maybe if I am walking through Yoke’s, and I spot Matthew McConaughey in the produce section, I grab his face and kiss him on the mouth, right? No. We need to simplify our lives and rules. Don’t be an asshole. Let’s just stick with that for now. It starts with you. Keep safe, keep warm, and love each other. Scarlette Quille

A teacher just like you.

More Clipboards Needed...

Dear Editor,

At a recent event, one of my volunteers recently remarked that if we only had more clipboards we would have collected 80 signatures instead of just 40. The signatures are needed so that We the People can decide if Idaho should Expand Medicaid to help 78,000 Idahoans gain access to healthcare. To do any real good, the clipboards need dedicated caring volunteers behind them to humbly ask people to add their name to the Medicaid Expansion Voter Initiative petition.

There are two “Days of Action” coming up soon and we will need volunteers behind those clipboards in Sandpoint. The first is scheduled for Feb. 24 at Evans Brothers at 9:30 am. We will get a brief training and volunteers will choose their assignment for the day. At noon, we will celebrate our victories with a Pizza and Politics break at the Heartwood Center. Luke Mayville, co-founder of Reclaim Idaho, will be there along with Mat Erpelding, Idaho House of Representative minority leader, helping us to better understand politics in Idaho. Our volunteer team will go out for a second round of signature collecting from 2-4 pm. Bring your clipboards, and join us for a chance to participate in a Day of Action - For the People, By the People.

The second Day of Action will be a statewide effort on March 3 and details will be out soon. In the meantime, you can always sign a petition at Eichardt’s, Women’s Health or Panhandle Art Glass. With Gratitude, Linda Larson Sandpoint

FSPW seeks scholarship entries and an intern

By Reader Staff

Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness (FSPW) offers an annual scholarship for the best essay written by a graduating senior on the theme “A most memorable Wilderness experience.” This scholarship is offered in nine different high schools around the Scotchman Peaks, including Sandpoint H.S., Lake Pend Oreille Alternative H.S. , Forrest Bird Charter H.S., Clark Fork H.S. and Priest River Lamanna H.S. The best essay for each school receives a $300 scholarship to be spent in any manner the recipient wishes. The best essay overall receives an extra $300. There are no scholastic or community requirements for this scholarship. The application can be downloaded at http://bit.ly/FSPWScholarship2018 or ask the school counselor office for a copy

Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness is also looking for a high school student (rising senior) volunteer intern to assist our assistant program coordinator. FSPW is a non-profit wilderness advocacy group working for wilderness designation. The intern will help with newsletter distribution, data management, inventory and other duties associated with non-profit office operations. The intern will learn about day-to-day activities of conservation-based non-profits, as well as the larger issues of conservation and wilderness advocacy, stewardship and education. Please write to britta@scotchmanpeaks.org for more information.

George Washington’s religion revisited

By Nick Gier Reader Columnist

Thanks to Glenn Beck’s fawning promotion, an obscure self-published book on George Washington’s religion has become a best-seller among conservatives. On his show Beck enthused: “It so discredits all of the scholars, and it’s amazing. It’s the best book on faith and the founding I think I’ve ever read.”

Did Beck actually read this huge tome? Running almost 1,200 pages with 500 pages of endnotes and 10 indices, conservative Presbyterian minister Peter Lillback’s “George Wasghinton’s Sacred Fire” certainly gives the impression of thorough scholarship.

Lillback really has to stretch the evidence and indulge in a lot speculation to make Washington an orthodox, trinitarian Christian. Here is the essence of his argument: Anglicans are orthodox Christians; Washington was an Anglican; therefore, Washington was an orthodox Christian.

Thomas Jefferson was also a

vestryman in the Anglican church and attended church regularly throughout his life, but Lillback would never draw the conclusion that Jefferson was an orthodox Christian. This fact leads us to believe that Lillback’s major premise is obviously false. Washington was a nominal Episcopalian who attended church irregularly, ceasing after his retirement.

Washington’s diaries show that he frequently dishonored the Sabbath. We learn from one entry that he would have collected his rents on Sundays, but he declined because the people living on his land were “apparently very religious.” This is the real “honest George,” making no pretenses about being pious.

The weakest arguments in the book are the ones devoted to proving that Washington believed in the deity of Christ and the Trinity.

In all of his voluminous writing only once does he speak of Jesus and this single incident, a speech to the Delaware Indians, most likely written by an aide more orthodox than he.

On the manuscript of anoth-

er presidential speech to Indian leaders, we can clearly see the word “God” crossed out and the phrase “Great Spirit” written in Washington’s own hand. Church historian Forrest Church states that on the question of his belief in Christ Washington was “deafeningly silent.”

With so little evidence to work with, Lillback is forced to make some very indirect and dubious inferences. For example, he thinks that Jesus is the referent in phrases such as “divine author of our blessed religion,” when in fact it most likely means God himself or Providence, which is more characteristic of Washington.

The only argument that Lillbeck can make that Washington believed in a triune deity is that as an Anglican he would have affirmed church creeds, which contain that doctrine, and he would have read from the trinitarian “Common Book of Prayer.”

Jefferson attended church more often than Washington did, and he, too, would have joined the congregation in reciting the trinitarian

creeds. Witnesses also noticed that he always put his prayer book in his pocket as he rode off to church. In stark contrast to Washington, Jefferson, after his retirement, rode all the way to Charlottesville to church.

For the 16 years that I could get diary evidence (periodic from 1760 to 1791), Washington attended church on average only 10 times a year. Scholars at Mt. Vernon state: “Washington’s diaries show no church attendance by anyone in the family after they returned to Mount Vernon at the end of his presidency.” Washington obviously did not follow his own advice to his soldiers when he commanded: “See that the men regularly attend divine worship.”

In a recent biography of Washington Joseph J. Ellis describes the scene at Washington’s death: “There were no ministers in the room, no prayers uttered, no Christian rituals offering the solace of everlasting life.” Lillback’s excuse that Washington died quickly and there was no time to call a minister simply does not persuade.

Dr. Benjamin Rush reported to Thomas Jefferson that upon leaving office Washington met with a group of clergy who submitted a number of questions for Washington to answer. Since he had never made any public affirmation of Christianity, one of their questions was whether or not he was a Christian. Washington very kindly answered all of the questions except that crucial one.

As historian Paul Boller concludes: “If Washington was a Christian, he was surely a Protestant of the most liberal persuasion.” He would have fit Adam’s definition of a Christian very well: “I believe all the honest men among you are Christians, in my sense of the word.”

Nick Gier of Moscow taught religion and philosophy at the University of Idaho for 31 years. Read the full version at www.NickGier.com/WashRel.pdf and read about the religious views of other founding thinkers at webpages. uidaho.edu/ngier/foundfathers. htm. Contact him at ngier006@ gmail.com.

Mayor’s Roundtable: UI/Boyer and the Newport Smelter

By Mayor Shelby Rognstad Reader Contributor

It has been busy this month at the city.

Consideration of the future of the University of Idaho/Boyer property has been atop the list of happenings. Studio Cascade, a city contracted design firm, hosted a two-day open house inviting public feedback on future use and development of the 77-acre parcel. The work built off the sub-area comprehensive plan revision that was completed in December. A planning and zoning workshop followed where different development and recreation concepts were weighed.

generated which was an impressive first run. Respondents overwhelmingly supported dedicating as much of the parcel as possible to open space and recreation.

This supported what we had heard throughout the Comp plan revision process.

property which will enable the city to best control its destiny. This is how we can best ensure adherence to the community’s vision and values as it relates to this vital asset.

Next month I will provide a more detailed prognosis of our efforts. No decisions will be made in haste, there will be many opportunities for public involvement as this project continues to develop.

moderated by Chris Bessler (KRFY Panhandle Community Radio) and Ben Olson (the Reader).

The purpose of this panel is simply to inform the public about the proposed project. It is important that the citizens of North Idaho are aware of the proposal and its potential impacts to area residents.

In conjunction with this effort, the city posted an online survey on Open Town Hall, the first case use of the new city survey platform. Over 560 responses were

While workforce housing, education and agriculture were identified as important, it is clear this community values recreation, open space, wetland conservation, trail connectivity and the many benefits these assets provide above all else. It is for this reason that the city is pursuing every avenue possible to purchase the

Next week I host a panel discussion for the proposed HiTest Sands Silicon Smelter in Newport, Wash. The panel will include representatives from Idaho DEQ, Washington Department of Ecology, Kalispel Tribe, Pend Oreille Department of Community Development, Idaho Conservation League, Lake Pend Oreille Waterkeepers, Citizens Against the Newport Silicon Smelter and the city of Sandpoint. Unfortunately, HiTest Sands declined invitation to participate. The event will be

While we recognize the value of high-grade silicon in the global market and the economic benefit that such a project could have for Pend Oreille County and the region, we also recognize that it may have substantial impacts to our air shed, water quality and ecology.

Other impacts to our highways, lake levels and property values should be evaluated as these concerns may be significant to transboundary constituents in North Idaho. I expect these concerns to be addressed by the panel and I’m hopeful that participants leave informed and empowered to act. It

is important to note there has not been a permit application submitted to Department of Ecology (WA), therefore there is nothing substantial for the public to respond to at this time, only the proposal as presented by HiTest. Once a permit application is submitted, a public comment period would be established by DOE and would include transboundary jurisdictions such as Bonner County in its scoping.

I encourage all of you to participate in the panel discussion on Wednesday, Feb. 28, from 5:307:30 p.m. at the Panida Theater. Audience members will have an opportunity to ask questions of the panelists after the mediated discussion. The event is free.

Lastly, I welcome you to join me at the Mayor’s Roundtable this Friday, Feb. 23, 8 a.m. at the Cedar St. Bistro where we discuss topics important to our community over good coffee.

ELECTION COVERAGE

US Representative race District 1 Pro le of Russ Fulcher

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff

Editor’s Note: Since gubernatorial candidate Raul Labrador didn’t follow through to our interview request, we are moving onto the U.S. Representative race. It’s a packed race, so we’re just focusing on candidates that have actively campaigned in North Idaho. Russ Fulcher recently took the time to visit the Reader office to talk about the issues, so we’ll begin with him.

SR: Thanks for sitting down with us, Russ. What have you been focusing your efforts on during your visit to North Idaho?

RF: We’ve got a network of volunteers as part of our overall campaign organization. … So first and foremost is to meet with them and give them an update on campaign strategy … and from a managerial standpoint find out where the needs are.

Secondly, I’m making sure I have the right intel on what’s important. Unless you’re on the ground in the region, you might assume what the big issues are. You’ve got to know a local. … So I get tuned up and educated on some of the local stuff: the Scotchman Peaks and the smelter. If you’re further down south you don’t get exposed to those issues a lot.

Thirdly, I’m just trying to meet as many people as I can. … It’s part of the campaign — you’re out selling yourself, so that’s what we’re doing.

SR: Let’s talk about the issues. What are some of the most important you’ve encountered as you’ve been campaigning?

RF: Probably the two most prolific on a district-wide basis … are health care and immigration. You also have the tax issue that is still fresh on people’s minds with the Trump agenda and tax reforms.

SR: And how do you think those big national issues circle back to affect Idaho?

RF: I learned recently that there’s been a pretty focused discussion on refugee resettlement in the region. That has been an ongoing issue further south for

a long time. Twin Falls has been ground zero on that issue in Idaho. Immigration is the lynchpin in what’s going on literally right now in the federal government with the government shutdown where DACA is kind of the hostage that is responsible for that hold up.

One of the things that has been a mission on this trip is to run past people locally, “OK, here is the compromise that is on the table. Good thing? Bad thing?” For the most part, people think it’s a good thing, and that seems to be a little bit uniform across the state. … But there’s some concern that some of the federal resettlement structure could be directed north, and I’ve been getting feedback on that for all the reasons you might think.

SR: You know, we haven’t heard any confirmation that refugee resettlement is actually being considered for this region. But it certainly seems to be a mobilizing issue for people here, especially on the conservative side of the spectrum.

RF: More so than the security-related issues, (people are worried about) the fiscal cost and ramifications of it and to what extent entitlements would be on the table. For a smaller economy with the sensitivities here, I can understand the concern.

SR: The other big issue you cited is health care, and everyone seems to have a different idea on how it should be handled. What’s your take on the issue?

RF: Thankfully, with tax reform the mandate went away, and that’s a huge change. Something that allows more free-market, private alternatives to be injected into the system I think is absolutely huge, and that’s something I wanted to see in the gubernatorial race earlier, and that’s starting to manifest itself. The encouragement of private clinics for imaging care as opposed to hospital and emergency rooms. The transparency where providers need to provide a cost up front before proceeding with a procedure. The allowance of the sale of insurance across state lines to increase competition. Those solutions work if

you give them a chance.

SR: We’re seeing a lot of those ideas in the statewide plan proposed at the beginning of the year by Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter. What do you think of that?

RF: I’m glad you asked, because Gov. Otter, welcome to 2012. That’s exactly what I proposed in 2012, and ultimately one of the things that led me to run for governor at that time was for the state to step forward and create a pathway for affordable insurance. … So I’m thankful. To me, it’s a little bit late, but it’s here.

SR: Let’s talk about the race itself. It’s a pretty packed primary, so what are the challenges you face in bringing Republicans onto your side.

RF: We’re in a very strong position right now, but campaigns are funny things. There’s a long way to go, and I take nothing for granted. There’s a lot of people in the field, so you need to be able to distinguish yourself.

We’ve got an extremely strong network, and we’ve been able to finance things well, so that’s going to enable us to communicate better as we get just a little bit closer. … That said, now the challenge is messaging in accordance with the issues that are important to people: immigration, health care, being able to proliferate ideas and hopefully well-thought-out solutions for those issues. … I also want people to know I don’t have a monopoly on wisdom here. I’m open to ideas.

SR: If you’re elected, how do you envision yourself working with the Trump administration?

RF: Great question, and I’ve thought about that a lot. Full disclosure: I was a Ted Cruz delegate. I went to Cleveland, and I was part of the Cruz campaign. Soon as Cruz was out, I did immediately shift over to Trump because I knew the alternative. Now that he’s been in and operating, I honestly believe he’s the right guy at the right time.

That said, my personal style is different. In general, I would be very supportive of the agenda he’s laid out and the agenda he’s

driving to. If he adheres to that agenda in terms of tax reform and economic job creation and those types of things, I am very likely to be a friend in the legislative branch for Donald Trump. I’m no person’s disciple, however, and my job is to be the representative of Idaho and stand up for its best interests.

… Interesting to note, however, that the mix of Republicans to Democrats in the U.S. House is likely to be a lot tighter after the next election. So that’s going to probably magnify the impact the Idaho delegation has in what truly gets support … and it will be important to have allies for that agenda. I intend to be one.

SR: Given where Republican politics are these days, what are your ideas for unifying the more conservative wing and the more moderate wing of the party?

RF: Again, very insightful question. … Ironically, I see the Trump agenda as having a little bit of a unifying effect on the split party dynamics in our own state. People … seem to be rallying around the more populist type of a push. I don’t see as much territorial positioning that has been there in the past. It’s still there, but it seems to have been reduced it a bit. … The lines between the various stakeholders have been blurred in the last couple years, and I see that as a good thing.

SR: Just to wrap up, is there any particular message you want to impress upon voters?

RF: My history, my record and my qualifications are extremely easy to validate, and I put them up against anyone in this state — or any other state, for that matter — in terms of being qualified to represent a state in the U.S. Congress. I couple that with having a servant’s heart and being open to wise counsel.

Russ Fulcher AT A GLANCE

AGE: 55

BIRTHPLACE AND RESIDENCE: Meridian born and raised. Russ grew up on the family dairy farm in Meridian and has lived in Meridian his whole life.

GOVERNMENT SERVICE: Former state senator for 10 years, served in leadership as Majority Caucus Chairman for six years.

PROFESSION: International businessman and real estate broker.

EDUCATION: Masters in Business Administration from Boise State Univ. Electronic Engineering certi cate through Micron Technology and Energy Management certicate from Univ. of Idaho.

FAMILY: Russ’ lovely wife is Kara, and kids are Meghan, Ben and Nikki (all three college grads in their 20s).

FUN FACT: Russ has done business for Idaho tech companies in 47 countries and all 50 states

Science: Mad about

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

Editor’s Note: Brenden Bobby is out sick this week, so publisher Ben Olson is filling in with your weekly dose of Mad About Science.

One of my favorite activities in the summer is to lie in an open field and watch the clouds roll by. Have you ever really thought about how clouds are formed, what they are made of and what different types of clouds tell us about weather patterns?

Put simply, clouds are made up of tiny water droplets and ice crystals that are so small they float in the air. Most of the time, we don’t notice the droplets because they are so small and loosely packed, they don’t form into a cloud. It’s only when the droplets become large enough and form together that we see what we identify as a cloud or fog.

Let’s go back to my 7th grade science class, when my teacher used a water glass to explain how clouds formed. Though the water in the glass looks static, the water molecules are constantly in motion. When the water is warmed, they move faster. When it’s cooled, the molecules move more slowly, even solidifying into ice if cooled enough.

When the water molecules move from the glass to the air, it’s called evaporation. If the glass is heated up, more and more will evaporate, becoming water vapor.

Evaporation is why our oceans are salty. Because rainwater is slightly acidic, when it falls over rocks on land, it breaks down the rock, creating ions or electrically charged atomic particles. These ions are carried away in runoff to streams and rivers and ultimately to the ocean. Two of the most prevalent ions in seawater are chloride and sodium – together they make up over 90 percent of

clouds

all dissolved ions in the ocean. When seawater is evaporated, the ions are too heavy to travel with the water molecules, so they are left behind, creating the “salty” taste we associate with the sea.

After evaporation, some water molecules can’t remain as a vapor, so they cluster in the air to form tiny liquid droplets – a process called condensation. In clouds, the liquid droplets formed by condensation are small and light enough that they stay in the air. When they grow large enough, they will become heavier than the surrounding air and fall to the ground as precipitation.

You’ve seen condensation in many common forms: on your cold glass of lemonade outside on a hot summer day, on the inside of your windshield before you turn on the defogger or eyeglasses fogging up when you enter a warm building on a cold day.

Imagine the warmed molecules drifting up into the air. As they move higher, the air surrounding them is cooler, so the molecules clump together and form clouds. Voila!

The British pharmacist and chemist Luke Howard first devised a classification system for clouds in 1803. The system has proven so successful, meteorologists have used it ever since, with only minor modifications.

According to Howard’s system, clouds are given Latin names corresponding to their shape or appearance – layered or convective –and their altitude. Clouds are also categorized based on whether or not they are precipitating.

Layered clouds are much wider than they are tall. They will usually have flat bases and tops and can extend from horizon to horizon. The Latin term “stratus” or “layer” describes the layered cloud category.

Convective clouds, on the other hand, are taller than they are

wide. These clouds look lumpy and piled up, like a cauliflower. Convective clouds are indicated by the root term “cumulo,” which means “heap” in Latin.

Clouds are also classified by their altitude and ability to create precipitation. Those clouds that are high in altitude, composed of wispy ice crystals are referred to as “cirro” which means “curl.”

Clouds in the middle of the troposphere that are below high cirro-type clouds are referred to as “alto” or “high.” The prefix or suffic “nimbus” (“rain”) denotes a cloud that is causing precipitation.

The 10 basic cloud types that Howard introduced are cirrus, cirrostratus, cirrocumulus, altostratus, altocumulus, cumulus, stratus, stratocumulus, nimbostratus and cumulonimbus.

You can often use your information on cloud types to accurately predict the weather. When you see cirrus clouds, it’s generally an indication of fair weather in the immediate future. Cirrocumulus tend to be large groupings of white streaks sometimes neatly aligned. These clouds are sometimes referred to as “herringbone” pattern, or as a “mackerel sky.” In most climates, these clouds mean fair weather for the near future.

Cirrostratus, on the other hand, tend to be more sheet-like than wispy, and often cover the whole sky. Their presence usually indicates moist weather within the next 12-24 hours.

Alto, or middle clouds, often block sunlight and form from 6,500 to 23,000 feet. Altostratus are gray and blue clouds that cover the whole sky, indicating a storm at some point in the near future. Altocumulus are grayish-white clouds that blanket the entire sky. These types tend to look like large, fluffy sheets. If you see them in the morning, prepare for a thunderstorm in the afternoon.

Stratus clouds are low-lying solid clouds that look like an elevated fog, often bringing drizzle or light snow. Stratocumulus are low-lying, bumpy and gray clouds that don’t bring precipitation. These do not cover the entire sky, but tend to arrive in rows and patches. Nimbostratus is a standard rain cloud – a large flat sheet of gray with small differentiation. Cumulus clouds are the ones referred to as “white cotton balls.” When these clouds remain low clumps, there will be fair weather,

but when they start to ascend higher, a large storm could be forming. Cumulonimbus are cumulus clouds that have grown vertically into an anvil-like shape. The anvil tends to point in the direction the storm is moving. These clouds bring the most dangerous weather, such as rain, lightning, hail and tornadoes.

Now that you know more about clouds, go outside and take a look. Try to predict the weather based on the clouds you see, then check your predictions the following day.

Random Corner

•For the record, hailstone sizes start at marble and continue to penny, nickel, quarter, half dollar, walnut, golf ball, hen egg, tennis ball, baseball, tea cup, grapefruit and softball, according to the Storm Prediction Center. But that falls short of the largest hailstone ever confirmed: a monster nearly the size of a bowling ball that fell in Vivian, S.D., in 2010.

•Emperor penguins famously huddle together to survive the bitter Antarctic cold, and the big ears of a jack rabbit help it stay cool in the desert heat. But the North American wood frog’s answer to extreme winter weather goes to the extreme. It freezes. Despite its heart and breathing actually stopping and body temperature falling to 20 degrees, an antifreeze-like blood high in sugar supports its cell structure so it can bounce back from multiple freeze-thaw cycles every season.

•If somebody tells you it’s 40 below zero, you don’t need to ask if they’re talking Fahrenheit or Celsius. At that temperature — and only at that temperature — the two are the same.

•If you need to break some ice, you can’t do much better than the Coast Guard’s Polar Star, called upon for a time last week to rescue the Russian and Chinese ships stuck in sea ice near Antarctica. The only U.S. heavy ice breaker can cruise at 3 knots through ice 6 feet thick. And if push comes to shove — or ramming — it can carve a path through ice more than 21 feet thick.

•Isaac Cline, head of the U.S. Weather Bureau office for the Galveston, Texas, area, wrote in 1891 that it was “simply an absurd delusion” to think the Texas coast was vulnerable to tropical storms, and “it would be impossible for any cyclone to create a storm wave which could materially injure the city.” Nine years later, a hurricane devastated Galveston, killing about 8,000.

sandpoint winter carnival guide

Week 2

By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff

Even with Old Man Winter driving Sandpoint deeper and deeper into the chill that makes this time of year so hard, the Winter Carnival is still in full swing. Don’t miss this weekend’s plethora of great food, live music and local brews as this year’s carnival comes to a boisterous close.

Thursday, Feb. 22

Dine Out for a Cause

Support the Bonner Community Food Bank by dining at Trinity at City Beach on Thursday starting at 4:30 p.m.

National Margarita Day Celebration

Blended or on the rocks? Salt or no salt? Visit Jalapeno’s Mexican Restaurant on Thursday to take advantage of specials and celebrate margaritas, sponsored by Hornitos Tequila.

Friday, Feb. 23

Live music @ the Beer Hall w/ Moses Willey

Moses Willey was born deep in the heart of the Great North Woods, high on the peak of a musical note. They form a special place where the lines between traditional bluegrass, folk, and Appalachian mix together in a mist of stylistic and idiosyncratic interpretations. Also, joining the crowd is the Edelwagen Food Truck with awesome handcrafted sausages and high-quality food!

Live music @ the 219 w/ Dime Store Prophets

Those 21-plus can enjoy the live music of Dime Store Prophets at the 219 Lounge on Friday night.

Final Starlight Party

Taps Lounge at Schweitzer Mountain Resort is hosting their final party, and this time the theme is “007.” Sport your best Bond look — the party starts at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 24

Frozen 5K Run

Meet up at the Dover Bay Barn before 10 a.m. Saturday to partake in the Frozen 5K Run. Participants must pay $5 and sign a waiver to participate.

Weird and Wonderful Winter Pub Crawl

Hosted by Dine Around Sandpoint, the Winter Carnival pub crawl celebrates the best — and weirdest — of Sandpoint’s beer scene. Over a dozen locations are participating, offering one weird and one wonderful brew. Visit the Dine Around Sandpoint Facebook page to learn more about how to purchase tickets and participate.

Live music @ the Beer Hall w/ Harold’s IGA

Harold’s IGA — the indie-rock band named after that grocery store that was bulldozed to the ground — is playing the Beer Hall, and anyone looking to dance their pants off should definitely go. It’s 21-plus only, and the jams begin at 6:30 p.m.

International String Trio @ the Panida Theater

This trio is said to have “developed a unique concert program that is both highly entertaining and educational, energetic and musically gratifying.” Visit panida.org for ticket information.

Dirty Revival @ the Hive

This powerhouse band from Portland will light up the Hive Saturday night. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show begins at 8 p.m. Attendees must be 21 or older to “get dirty.” (Their words, not mine.)

Stand-up comedy at the 219 Comedian Jessa Reed headlines the 219 Saturday night. She’ll tell jokes about her life, from teen mom to meth addict to homeschooling housewife. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. Must be 21-plus to attend.

DJ Josh @ the 219

The 219 will party late into the night Saturday with DJ Josh starting at 10:30 p.m. The tunes are free, but you must be 21-plus to attend.

Sunday, Feb. 25

Eichardt’s K9 Keg Pull and Coffee Tasting

One of Sandpoint’s most photogenic events is back. The K9 Keg Pull will start at 9 a.m. at the granary, and dogs of all sizes will pull kegs and beer cans down

a snowy runway. Evans Brothers Coffee will host the Neighborhood Coffee Tasting and Family Faire at the same time, which starts at 8 a.m. The $10 entry donation fee goes to the Panhandle Animal Shelter.

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 1

Dollar Beers! 8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub

Trivia Takeover Live

5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery

Wine and beer specials, plus prizes as well. Free and open to the public.

Live Music w/ The Somethings

6-8pm @ Cedar St. Bistro Wine Bar

Featuring Chris Lynch and Meg Turner

Live Music w/ Moses Willey

6:30-9:30pm @MickDuff’s Beer Hall

A mix of traditional bluegrass, folk, and Appalachian music. Food out back by Edelwagen Food Truck. Free and open to all 21+

Live Music w/ Betsi Hammett

6-8pm @Cedar St. Bistro Wine Bar

Live Music w/ Harold’s IGA

6:30-9:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Indie rock originals and covers

Live Music w/ Mike and Shanna

5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority

Super fun duo with a great energy.

Also, pick up your glassware for the Pub Crawl at IPA!

Dirty Revival in concert

8pm @ The Hive

A unique Portland-born ensemble who will bring it to The Hive! Tickets $15/adv, $18/door.

Sandpoint Chess Club

9am @ Evans Brothers Coffee Meets every Sunday at 9am

Clark Fork Crafternoon

3pm @ Clark Fork Library

Enjoy free family fun with a craft to take home.

Live Music w/ Ben Olson

5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority Ben Olson and a special guest

Live Music w/ Bright Moments Jazz 7-10pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Dig it, baby

Farmouse live music

6-8pm @ Farmhouse Kitchen

Live music with Tom D’Orazi

Dine Out For 4:30pm-close

This event benefits munity Food

Live Music 9pm @ 219

Three-piece influenced the Clash and

Mayor’s Roundtable 8am @ Cedar St. Have coffee and

Weird and Wonderful Winter Carnival Pub Crawl

- @ 15 participating Sandpoint locations

Enjoy 30 weird and wonderful beers at 15 participating town Sandpoint locations in this 2nd annual Pub Crawl. the ad on page 17 for a list of participating establishments

Live Comedy at the Niner 8pm @ 219 Lounge

A great night of live comedy featuring Jonas Barnes and headliner Jessa Reed with Morgan Preston as host. Tickets $10 in advance, $12 at door. DJ Josh spinning after the show until 1:30 a.m. so bring your dancing shoes!

Valinor Quartet

6:30pm @ Panida International String plus Grammy-winning cordionist Victor Music ranges from cal to Beatles, gypsy Klezmer, movie soundtracks and tango. Tickets

K-9 Keg Pull • 9am @ The Granary Parking Lot

Dogs of all sizes race down a snow-packed course pulling of cheering from the crowd. A neighborhood coffee tasting

Monday Night Blues Jam w/ Truck Mills 7:30pm @ Eichardt’s Pub

Night-Out Karaoke

9pm @ 219 Lounge

Join DJ Pat for a night of singing, or just come to drink and listen

Wind Down Wednesday 5-8pm @ 219 Lounge

Lifetree Cafe • 2pm @ Jalapeño’s Mexican

An hour of conversation and stories.This

VIP Find Your Perfect Match

12-1pm @ Sandpoint Community Resource Center

Get connected to find or list volunteer opportunities in Bonner or Boundary counties

With live music by blues man

Truck Mills and Bruce Bishop. Relax together with friends and colleagues at the end of the day

Dollar Beers!

8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub

Good until the keg’s dry

Geezer Forum

2:30-4pm @ Columbia

Hosted by Paul Graves held the second and Tuesday of every month

Panel discussion for proposed silicon smelter

5:30-7:30pm @ Panida Theater

An informational panel discussion on the proposed HiTest Sands silicon smelter in Newport, WA. This event is intended to inform the public of the project how citizens can provide effective comment. Free and open to public

Media Literacy

Learn and discuss dia information, topical research a casual discussion

ful

Dine Out For a Cause

4:30pm-close @ Trinity at City Beach

This event benefits the Bonner Community Food Center

Live Music w/ Dimestore Prophets

9pm @ 219 Lounge

Three-piece groove, rock, reggae band influenced by Bob Marley to Sublime, the Clash and Dirty Heads. Free show!

Mayor’s Roundtable

Cedar St. Bistro

February 22 - March 1, 2018

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

Reader recommended

National Margarita Day Celebration

@ Jalapeño’s Mexican Restaurant

Stop by and enjoy one of their many delicious varieties of margaritas, sponsored by Hornito’s tequila

INBC Blood Drive

10am-2pm @ Bonner General Health classrooms

Hosted by Bonner General Health. Sign up to donate at INBCSaves.org and use promo code: BonnerHospital, or call 1-800-423-0151. Walk-ins are also welcome

KNPS Presentation: Selkirk Mountain Caribou

9:45-11:30am @ Sandpoint Community Hall

coffee and discuss issues with Mayor Shelby Rognstad

Pub Crawl

participating downannual Pub Crawl. See participating establishments Quartet @ Panida Theater International String Trio Grammy-winning accordionist Victor Prieto. ranges from classiBeatles, gypsy jazz, movie soundtracks tango. Tickets $17

Lot

February Fun Fling Dance

7-10pm @ Sandpoint Community Hall

7-8 pm is beginning salsa lesson taught by a professional instructor, 8-10 pm general dancing. Refreshments, mixers, door prizes, fun!

Frozen 5K Run

10am @ Dover Bay Barn

Cedar St. Bridge Public Market

A presentation by Cheryl Moody about the “Selkirk Mountain Caribou Recovery and Arboreal Lichen Collection Project” hosted by Sandpoint Parks & Recreation and the Kinnikinnick Native Plant Society. NativePlantSociety.org.

CANSS Smelter March in Newport

10am @ Stratton Elementary School

Join CANSS (Citizens Against the Newport Silica Smelter) for a march against the proposed HiTest Silica Smelter. Staging at Stratton Elem. School, 1201 5th St Newport, Wash.

Meet up at the Dover Bay Barn and join the fun! Waivers must be signed before participating. $5 fee Yoga on Tap 11am @ Laughing Dog Brewery

10am-2pm @ Cedar St. Bridge

Come enjoy indoor shopping on the bridge spanning Sand Creek

One hour class that ends with the group having a beer together. $12 includes your first beer

course pulling anywhere from full-size kegs to beer cans amidst a pandemonium coffee tasting event with live music goes on at Evans Bros. from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Jalapeño’s Mexican Restaurant stories.This Week’s Topic - Adoption Stories

Forum @ Columbia Bank by Paul Graves and second and fourth of every month

smelter

proposed HiTevent is citizens to public

SFN Movie Night

7pm @ Panida Little Theater Watch “The Elephant Man” with local film lovers. $5 suggested donation

Open Mic

5-8pm @ SKåL Taproom

Musicians and comedians welcome! Open mic is held every Wednesday

Dan McDonald campaign

kickoff meet and greet 4-8pm @ Second Ave. Pizza Come and meet Dan to learn more about his accomplishments in office and to share your ideas for more improvements in the future

Live Music w/ Shiloh Rising 7pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Enjoyable, Eclectic, Energizing Folk / Rock/ Bluegrass

Literacy - Part 1 • 6pm @ The Heartwood Center and discuss how to critically analyze information for credibility, deconstruct meinformation, local vs. big media, sources for fact checking and conducting your own research during a Media Literacy workshop. The workshop will be conducted in casual discussion format with an expert facilitator present. Free and open to the public.

March 2-3

The Follies @ Panida Theater

March 3

Mega Demo Day @ Schweitzer Mountain Resort

March 3

Beans and Brews Chili Cook-Off @ Ponderay Events Center

Cedar Street Bistro celebrates 10 years

By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff Writer

Crepes, sandwiches, espresso, stone-baked pizza, quiche, traditional Italian ice cream made from scratch — you dream it up, the Cedar Street Bistro makes it, and likely from scratch.

Owners Tim and Manuela Frazier have expanded on their bistro’s impressive repertoire for a decade now, but even with 10 years under their belts, some might argue the bistro is a hidden gem.

“I think a lot of locals don’t even realize we’re here,” said bistro manager Maggie McCallum. “All the time, people ask, ‘Where do you work?’ and when I say ‘Cedar Street Bistro inside the bridge,’ they say ‘What’s that?’”

years.

But on a chilly February morning when the sun shines through the floorto-ceiling windows and people fill the large corridor with chatter as they sip coffee and eat breakfast, the bistro — and the bridge as a whole — are a sight to see.

“When you look out there and you’ve got a full seating area, people are talking, they’re having a great time — there’s something very satisfying about that,” Tim said, motioning toward the scene.

Not only do the Fraziers have the bistro, but also a wine bar, T-shirt shop and Christmas shop (open year-round) in the Cedar Street Bridge.

“We want to keep the bridge a yearround destination,” Tim said.

As the Sandpoint tourist season fluctuates, so do the crowds at the bridge. Manuela said she makes fresh gelato — Italian ice cream made in small batches — every morning in the summers as the lines reach out the door.

“We meet people from all over the world,” she said. “There are people who come in here for the first time, and they ask what to do, what to see (around Sandpoint), and that’s fun for us, being tour guides.”

Still, the bistro’s regulars hold a special place in McCallum’s heart. She’s been working at the bistro for over five

“Sandpoint regulars are really awesome,” she said. “Our tourists are great — I love them. But your regulars are your bread and butter. Those are the people that you see everyday.”

To thank those regulars — and everyone else who has enjoyed the bistro over the last decade — the businesses is having a weekend-long anniversary celebration Feb. 24 and 25. McCallum said there will be live music, gift cards given away, the chance to win a free latte a week for a year, as well as gelato, pizza and wine tasting.

Marsha Muery has been managing the bistro’s wine bar since it opened about a year ago. She said there is almost always live music on Friday and Saturday nights, and that she strives to help people access high-quality wines.

“I want people to know that there is a viable resource for wine in this town, and I’d say 85 percent of the bottles I carry are not in the grocery stores around here,” she said.

McCallum said she is proud to be a part of the variety, scene and service the Cedar Street Bistro offers, and hopes more Sandpointians will come experience it.

“For one business to be here for 10 years — that’s a thing to boast about in Sandpoint,” she said. “We try to bring uniqueness, and we try hard to offer things you can’t get everywhere else.”

Feb 24th & 25th

Gold Hill Creek as captured in winter by Sandpoint photographer Don Fisher. You can see more of Don’s work in town at the new Bonner General Health Services building, or online at www.donfisherimages.com.

Have an image you’d like to see in the Reader? Send it on over! We love printing local art and photography from our region’s artists.

OUTDOORS Who the heck was Fred Beckey?

By Ed Ohlweiler Reader Contributor

Rock jocks the world over have studied his climbs for decades now, yet to many Fred Beckey remains either completely unknown or a mystery. Who was this man that many have called the greatest alpinest who’s ever lived? The man with more first ascents than any other person in history?

His recent passing at the age of 94 has led many, myself included, to find out. A movie about his life is currently being released, entitled “Dirtbag”. While the title may be an accurate portrayal of a climbing lifestyle that encompassed Beckey’s entire life, it doesn’t tell the whole story of this enigmatic figure. Sure, he lived out of a pink Ford Thunderbird (circa 1960?) for many years, collected catsup packets religiously, and was known to eat cat food. There is an iconic photo of him by the side of the road holding a cardboard sign: “Will Belay for Food”. Yvon Chouinard tells in his homage to Beckey, “The Master’s Apprentice,” of the time they wanted to go to an all-you-can-eat buffet that had a dress code. Fred pulled out a sports coat he’d gotten for 25 cents at a thrift store, and they ate sequentially. The coat had a hideous yellow stain, presumably mustard. On one climb, as Beckey read pages from his book, he crumpled the pages and placed them inside the sports coat for insulation, then had breakfast cooked from the same crumpled pages in the morning.

To place all of this in historical perspective, bear in mind that Beckey was starting to climb at the same time Choinard was starting to soil diapers. He was born in Germany in 1923 and emigrated to Seattle two years later. Fred and his brother, Helmut, made a name for themselves climbing peaks in the Northwest and British Columbia when climbing gear didn’t really exist. “We used manila rope,” Helmut said of their climb of B.C.’s impressive Mt. Waddington in 1942, “Nylon wasn’t around yet. And tennis shoes, which are fine on rock. When it was wet or icy, we had our own homemade wool stockings that we pulled over them. I had my 17th birthday on the top. Fred would have been 19. It was 35 years before a third ascent on that route was made.”

When you consider that many of Beckey’s climbing partners, like Choinard

and REI founder Lloyd Anderson, went on to make a lot of money —billions even — in outdoor sporting gear, it seems that “dirtbag” may have been a choice, just like his choice to never raise a family. But is an all-encompassing obsession with something you love really a choice?

It was this obsession and love that was at the heart of controversy surrounding Beckey. He favored the shorter duration alpine-style first ascents over the larger team international efforts. Though he’s climbed with hundreds of different people, they were always embarking on a “Beckey” trip, and often not told the final destination until they got there. (He was secretive about first ascents, lest someone else summit before him.) He’d always been a fiercely independent climber, and was criticized after Nepal’s Lhotse, when he left a weakened climber high on the mountain. The climber survived, but it spread amongst the climbing world that Beckey was not a team player. He was not invited on the large, expedition-style trips, something that suited him and his alpine style just fine. He climbed like a madman after that.

He was noted for his photographic memory of mountains. On a climb, he would often make sketches and take notes for future first ascents, something that added impetus to the “Black Book” rumor. Supposedly, there was a misplaced journal out there meticulously detailing all the great first ascents still left, and for a climber to find this Black Book, it would be like discovering the Holy Grail. He also wrote so prolifically when it came to mountaineering that there were speculations of ghost writers, until one realized just how incredible his memory for mountains was. One peer stated that

he would publish a story in the American Alpine Journal and Beckey would write back with 25 corrections.

And he was a ladies’ man. A hopeless romantic who could never stop climbing long enough to make things work out. There’s a climbing T-shirt that reads, “Beware of Beckey: He Will Steal your Woman, Steal your Route.” It is hard to differentiate between the criticism and the jealousy sometimes.

I like that he was a ladies’ man (he gave up riches, fame and raising a family for the sport — should he live in abstinence, too?). I like his rugged individualism. I like the mystery of his “Black Book” and of Beckey himself. I like his uncompromising dedication to a life spent in mountains. I like that he knew danger, yet died of old age. And I like that I met him once for a brief moment in a bar in Alaska. We noticed a friend at the next table and asked what he was up to. He tried to act cool when he said, “Just hanging out with Fred Beckey,” but he was beaming. We instantly inserted ourselves into the situation and shook Beckey’s hand. If I hadn’t known better, I would have thought of him as an “elderly” man. (He was around 80, but would continue to scale mountains into his 90s.) Shaking hands with Fred Beckey is like touching thousands of rock faces on different continents.

Phil Powers of the American Alpine Club sums it up best: “People talk about young climbers today and how prolific a person might be. But there’s just no comparison with Fred. I mean, it’s not one level, but ten levels of magnitude more than the second-place guy. If you travel the American West, open any guidebook, try to do any route, try to do any mountain, you’ll likely come across Fred’s name.”

A quiz for locals

Just how local are you?

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

Have you ever known that guy or gal who seems to know everything about North Idaho history? I mean everything

Give them the name of a bar and the year 1984, and they’ll tell you who was tending bar, regulars’ favorite drinks and the number of times they’d been 86ed for not paying their tab or whizzing on the floor.

Just for fun, I thought I’d offer some questions only the deep down locals will be able to answer. No fair using your smart phone or Googling any of this. It won’t help much anyway, since the internet largely doesn’t care about us here in the wild and wooly Panhandle. Check your answers at the end. If you got all the answers right, you probably need to get out of town more often. If you didn’t get any right, don’t fret: In 10 or 20 years, people will probably start remembering your name, and someday, maybe, you may just be considered a local.

1. There was a big sign at the Sandpoint Airport that read “Sandpoint” and had a phrase printed beneath it. What did the phrase say?

3. What year did Schweitzer Mountain Resort first open?

4. Name five major bands that have played at the Festival at Sandpoint during the 1990s.

5. What elementary school principal also served as an Idaho state representative for District 1 for over seven terms?

6. How many Long Bridges have there been?

7. What was the bar called that used to be in the building where Eichardt’s Pub is currently located?

8. This winter, the streets transitioned back to two-way. What year were they flipped to one-way?

9. What used to occupy the block where the Columbia Bank building is currently located?

10. What member of the LAPD moved to Sandpoint in the 1990s?

11. Where did the Fire Department used to be located in downtown Sandpoint prior to its current location at City Hall on Lake Street?

12. Name the last five mayors of Sandpoint, starting with the current one.

(the one that’s currently standing)?

14. The Panida Little Theater used to be several bars. Name three of them.

15. Name two businesses that used to be where Baxter’s on Cedar is currently located.

16. What’s the oldest bar currently operating in Sandpoint?

17. What year did the Panida Theater nearly catch fire?

18. What graduating class was the last to graduate from the Sandpoint High School building which is currently the Sandpoint Middle School?

19. Name the chairlifts at Schweitzer that correspond to the current names. Bonus points if you still refer to them by the old names: Snow Ghost = Stella = Basin Express = Sunnyside = Musical Chairs =

Check your answers to the right. No peeking until you’ve made it this far! So... just how local are you?

(2008-2012), Ray Miller (2002-2008)

12. Shelby Rognstad (2016-present), Carrie Logan (2014-2016), Marsha Ogilvie (2012-2014), Gretchen

IGA, Sandpoint Cinema and the laundromat.

9.

2. Where did Ivano’s Ristorante first open a restaurant in Sandpoint? ANSWERS:

13. What year was the train depot built

‘Darkest Hour’ is Oldman at his nest

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

When it comes to World War II, there are so many amazing films depicting the turbulent times the world went through before the Axis powers were finally defeated.

The latest in this genre is “Darkest Hour,” a British war drama directed by Joe Wright and starring Gary Oldman as British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

The film is an account of Churchill’s early days as prime minister while Nazi Germany rampaged across western Europe threatening to annihilate the U.K., as well as an inside look to the friction that nearly split the government apart.

Oldman’s performance as Churchill has been highly praised, with many critics noting it as one of the best roles of his career. The film saw Oldman nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor. He ultimately ended up winning a handful of awards, including a Golden Globe, a BAFTA Award and the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Perfor-

Why I love the Follies

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

The last few weeks, we’ve run several pieces in the Reader both lauding and attacking The Follies. I generally try to stay out of these types of battles, but I feel compelled to share my thoughts.

Angels Over Sandpoint has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to our community’s schoolchildren over the years, and The Follies is a big part of their fundraising efforts. We need this assistance every year, otherwise hundreds of schoolchildren might have to go without crucial school supplies. Ultimately, it comes down to this: If you’re offended by something, don’t go to it. Nobody forces people to attend R-rated movies or buy albums with explicit lyrics. If you can’t handle some adult humor for a good cause, it doesn’t make you a bad person at all. Just don’t go. Trust me, they’ll be just fine without your presence. If anything, like banning books, your disapproval only helps sell more tickets.

The Follies takes place at the Panida Theater on March 2-3 at 8 p.m.

mance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role. “Darkest Hour” also was nominated for six Academy Awards and nine British Academy Awards, winning two of them.

The film commences in May 1940 as Churchill comes to power as prime minister. Overcoming a poor reputation, Churchill battles forces inside the British Parliament, faces criticism by the king and is tasked with stemming back the invading Nazis whose push to conquer western Europe brings about an existential crisis across the world.

It’s a story that captures the reality of the arduous tasks Churchill faced, including a government that saw him as a fuddy-duddy old fool before they revered and loved him after the war.

With outstanding supporting performances by Kristin Scott Thomas as Clementine Churchill, Elizabeth Layton as Lily James and Ben Mendelsohn as King George VI, “Darkest Hour” is a film that war buffs, history buffs and lovers of method acting and good writing will enjoy equally.

SFN Movie Night: ‘Elephant Man’

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff

Join the Sandpoint Filmmakers Network

7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 27, for a free screening of “The Elephant Man.”

Directed by David Lynch, the 1980 film stars Anthony Hopkins as Dr. Frederic Treves, who discovers the deformed Joseph Merrick, played by John Hurt, in a sideshow. The film covers Merrick’s search for dignity and acceptance in spite of his physical disfigurement. Nominated for several Academy Awards, “The Elephant Man” blends Lynch’s dark visual style with a straightforward, character-driven story that stands in contrast to his more surreal work. The film is a triumph of kindness and compassion over cruelty.

SFN Movie Night is a movie club that meets the last Tuesday of the month. Its screenings are free, but a $5 donation is suggested to help cover the theater rental. Beer and wine sales are provided by the Panida Theater. Stick around afterward to discuss the film.

Registration is required but free and simple. Just visit www.sandpointfilmmakers.net/ join or sign up at the event.

The Panida Theater will be showing “Darkest Hour” Feb. 22 at 7:30 p.m., Feb. 23 at 5:30 p.m. and Feb. 25 at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the door or at www.panida.org.

More is not better

By Sandy Compton Reader Columnist

Powell Ranger Station stands out in the middle of nowhere, just downstream of where the Crooked Fork and Brushy Fork come together to form the Lochsa River, famous for fly fishing and float trips and far-flung notions like Wilderness. “The Frank” and the Selway-Bitterroot start here, and spread south toward the Magruder Corridor and the River of No Return.

The Powell bunkhouses — well over half a century old — have a smell any trail dog or fire crewmember will recognize. They can walk in blindfolded and know there are log walls, mouse traps, a wood stove, saggy, single mattresses upon which exhausted, smoky, sweaty men and women have collapsed and a refrigerator that holds as much beer as food and has been pilfered, possibly to the result of fist fights.

The buildings here are full of history. The sign above the door of my cabin tonight announces that “The Wanigan” was turned to lodging in 1980 after decades as the station pantry. The guest book, with a cover of graven leather, begins with entries from 1993 and chronicles 25 years of firefighters, trail builders, wildlife researchers, mule packers, road builders, timber cruisers and forest managers.

Cell phones don’t work here, so there is no tweeting via smart (or dumb-ass) phone. There is internet, but I don’t know the password yet, so I’m pretending that the world outside of Powell is right where I want it to be: outside, unreachable, remote. I have no need to check on the news, no need to make contact, nor means to do so even if I wish. And, I don’t wish.

Back home, Time waits on my kitchen table with a cover image of a mushroom cloud and headlines announcing that Trump wants to make American more nuclear.

im

I’m not gracing Trump with “mister” or “president.” I lost respect for him years ago, even before “The Apprentice,” so why pretend. He’s the worst thing to happen to the Republic since the Civil War, when we slaughtered our brothers over honor and human rights, neither of which, in spite of that, Trump has a good clue about.

Trump has broken our national word, withdrawing us from agreements meant to better the overall state of the planet. He now wishes to reignite the arms race. We — we, the people of the United States — possess nuclear weapons enough to kill every man, woman and child on the planet — not to mention dogs, cats, zebras, emus, grizzly bears, rainbow trout, whales, dolphins, elephants, tigers, wolves, guinea pigs and butterflies — three or four times. Just us! Then there are the Russians. The Brits. The French. The Indians. China. Pakistan. North Korea. And possibly — probably — Israel. But don’t mention that.

And Trump wants to build more.

He’s a maniac. If you love your children, you have to agree. Here at Powell, we are insulated from — but not immune to — Trump’s insanity. At least, we are a long ways from any of the many possible ground zeroes. At Powell, we are gathered to discuss one of our most precious resources: the national forests. Trump’s cabinet — and others in government — see our forests as exploitable commodities. Witness Secretary Zinke’s dismantling of national monuments.

To what end? To the glee of extractive industries armed with huge amounts of capital and capable of and willing to dig it all up and saw it all down for sole personal gain. “Recreational users keep out,” will be their mantra, no matter if you are an ATV rider, mountain biker, hiker or birdwatcher. Once claims and leases are established, fences go up and on the fences are “No Trespassing” signs. They would lock us out of what is essentially ours in the name of profit. The bastards. But, with Trump’s focus on the ability to bomb the planet into oblivion, it really doesn’t matter what happens to our natural resources, does it? We might as well use it up before the maelstrom engulfs us. Maybe that’s what Trump’s nuclear posturing is all about — a misdirection play to distract us while his cronies give away our national treasures. Both are outrageous, but the specter of nuclear annihilation “Trumps” roads into Bears Ears or the Pryor Mountains. Here at Powell, in the disconnected, offline, immense and quiet beauty of the Lochsa, we discuss the future of national forests, wilderness, the trails that crisscross them and how they connect users to the planet. We are not planning to blow anything up. Meanwhile, Trump, with his proliferation rhetoric, is purposely fueling fear in his own country, one he has taken an oath to lead in good faith and within the law of the land. He is failing both, Here at Powell, laughter fills the room. We have learned important things about wilderness and trails and each other. And, thankfully, 2020 is coming.

Sandy Compton is a curmudgeonly planetary citizen with deep local roots. Read more of his rants (and other stuff) at bluecreekpress.com

Idaho Senate committee kills popular sound money bill

By JP Cortez Reader Contributor

In an affront to every single Republican serving in the Idaho House as well as the Democrat Minority Leader, a majority of the Idaho Senate Local Government Taxation Committee voted down a key sound money bill yesterday that would end unjust taxation on the monetary metals in Idaho.

Federal Reserve System.

The Federal Reserve publicly admits its goal is to inflate away the purchasing power of the currency by at least 2 percent per year – with the reality often exceeding the Fed’s “2-percent inflation target.”

House Bill 449, approved with a bipartisan vote of 60-9 in the Idaho House last week, is a tax neutral measure which backs out precious metals “gains” and “losses” from the calculation of a taxpayer’s Idaho taxable income.

Senate sponsor Steve Vick (R-Dalton Gardens) carried HB 449 in Sen. Dan Johnson’s Local Government and Taxation Committee, but Johnson and fellow Republicans Jim Rice and Jeff Siddoway joined with the two Democrats to defeat the measure intended to help Idaho citizens combat inflation by a vote of 5-4.

Two Republicans (Sen. Siddoway and Sen. Rice) were vocal in their opposition, with Sen. Rice advancing bizarre arguments comparing gold, which is the world’s premier monetary asset held in large quantities by central banks, to mere table salt and also asserting that gold does not go up in price due to inflation.

Stefan Gleason, president of Money Metals Exchange, and Larry Hilton of the United Precious Metals Association testified in support of House Bill 449, explaining to the committee the importance of removing Idaho income taxation on the monetary as a protection against the harmful effects of the inflation that flows from the

Since the Federal Reserve was formed in 1913, the Federal Reserve Note “dollar” has fallen over 97 percent in purchasing power while the nominal price of gold has risen from $20 per ounce to over $1,300 per ounce.

Erecting barriers to owning and holding gold and silver makes it more difficult for Americans to protect themselves against foreseeable financial risk. Assessing income taxes on gold and silver is one of the many ways in which government penalizes forward-thinkers who try to protect themselves and their families.

Idaho is no exception, with wage earners, savers and citizens on a fixed income most harmed by inflation and the defeat of H 449.

The opponents of this bill have put themselves squarely at odds with Idaho voters who, by and large, understand that gold and silver are money – and that taxing money makes no sense.

JP Morgan is with the Sound Money Defense League, an Idaho-based public policy project working nationally to bring back gold and silver as America’s constitutional money. For comment or more information, call 1-208577-2225 or email jp.cortez@ soundmoneydefense.org.

Making light of dark matter

By Bill Collier Reader Contributor

Consider the “BIG BANG” Theory.

Scientists theorize that the entire universe started with a big bang about 14 billion years ago. Before then, all matter was supposedly compressed into a speck much smaller than a mustard seed. It then exploded outward to create the universe as we now (sort of) know it. It is still expanding from that initial explosion. Maybe.

I believe it is safe to say that the newly expanding universe started emitting radiation very soon after the initial explosion. That radiation is not limited to visible light, but includes everything from infrared, ultraviolet, X-rays, cosmic rays and perhaps some we do not even know about yet.

Einstein said that light travels 186,000 miles per second (to try and comprehend that distance, realize 186,000 miles is more than the circumference of the earth at the equator times seven. Then multiply that by the number of seconds in a year, then multiply that by 14 billion years. That is a huge number.) The universe, then, in addition to galaxies, stars, planets, black holes, you and me, and other miscellaneous space debris, must be a sphere of illumination and radiation exceeding 28 billion light years in diameter. Give or take a furlong.

Carl Sagan said, “There are billions and billions of galaxies each containing billions and billions of stars.” Each of these stars emits energy in every direction, adding to the total radiation. This huge universal sphere is filled with energy from all of these innumerable sources.

We know that uranium and other radioactive materials lose a tiny bit of mass as they degenerate and radiate energy. When an atomic bomb detonates, it has been calculated that a very small amount of its mass is turned into horrendous energy.

Scientists have also recently calculated, while measuring gravity that we can only account for about half of the mass of the universe. The rest of it is

hiding somewhere in some mysterious, undetectable substance called “dark matter.”

Solving Einstein’s equation e = m x c squared, for m, mass, gives us: m = e / c squared.

Theoretically at least, energy can be compared to, and perhaps be condensed into, matter. If so, how much mass would all that energy that is flashing around the universe represent, were it to be condensed into matter?

Could this explain the missing matter, the so-called dark matter?

Is light itself (to include and all the other forms of radiation) the missing dark matter?

Is it possible to calculate how much radiation energy might be in this gigantic sphere? How might one calculate the energy saturation of a cubic meter — or a cubic mile, or a cubic light year — of outer space? (This computation is beyond the scope of this essay and beyond the scope of this writer. Indeed, the answer to this question would probably earn a Nobel Prize in physics.)

From another angle, what if we

conclude — or eventually prove — that yes, all this radiation energy in the 28-billion-light-year sphere, would condense enough to explain the missing mass? Would this not, then, be a good way to define and confirm the actual size of the universe?

Or, perhaps if all this light energy is not enough to explain the missing mass of the dark matter, then might the universe be much bigger than we now think? How much bigger would the universe have to be to contain enough radiation energy to represent the missing mass? More calculations required.

These answers

might lead us to massive enlightenment. Q.E.D.

Capt. Bill Collier is a retired combat helicopter pilot with the United States Marine Corps, a local advocate for veterans affairs and the author of two novels based on his combat flight experiences in Vietnam.

Detoxi cation: science or witchcraft? IN FINE FETTLE

By Ammi Midstokke Reader Health Columnist

Science, actually. Detoxification is the physiological or medicinal removal of toxins from a living organism, and for the purposes of today, we’ll assume we’re talking about the human body.

Toxins are compounds we can’t use. Sometimes they are the byproduct of metabolism and sometimes the byproduct of xenobiotic metabolism (when our bodies try to process foreign things, like medicine or PCBs). Technically, even eating organic and karmically produced broccoli will result in a toxic load on the body.

posing ourselves to that build up in the system, cause an inflammatory cascade, and are correlated highly with disease (see: PCBs and cancer).

Additional research tells us that those with diets rich in fiber, flavanoids, and Omega-3s have a reduced negative impact of exposure to environmental toxins.

SHAKE, RATTLE AND ROLL

The reality of living with Parkinson’s Disease

By A.C. Woolnough Reader Columnist

About 150 Bonner County residents have Parkinson’s. It is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases. Scientists describe it as chronic (never going away) and progressive (it’s going to get worse).

It is no surprise we’ve evolved with livers. Whether a divine being knew we’d have to contend with McDonald’s or we’ve just perfected our internal recycling and waste system as a series of chaotic and serendipitous events, I cannot say. But I can say this: scientists have identified literally hundreds of different functions executed by liver cells. Try to take care of yours. On a scale of Brain to Appendix, it’s relevance for survival leans heavily toward the former.

Among these many functions, several are related to enzymatic activity that happens within a cell wall, taking a compound that is not useful to the body (and thus potentially harmful), making it less harmful with various other fancy words like “cytochrome P450 oxidases,” then shipping it out via the kidneys (urine), intestines (bowel matter), skin (sweat), and lungs (breath).

You’ll note that we’ve seen hundreds of detoxification programs, from Scientology’s “Purification Rundown” to herbal teas titled “Detox.” The science behind these programs is limited to non-existent (whereas the lawsuits chasing down the Church of Scientology are not), but there is science-based evidence to support the use of certain compounds in improving the body’s ability to detoxify.

These are compounds like anti-oxidants, flavonoids, Omega-3 fatty acids, and others that increase our body’s ability to detoxify and to manage the inflammatory response to such toxins.

In fact, studies show that healthy nutrition helps reduce our toxic load, such as limiting exposure to Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). These are pollutants that we can be unwittingly and chronically ex-

Further studies also tell us that adipose tissue indeed stores environmental toxins, and losing weight redistributes and reduces the concentration of those toxins. This is a common claim of detox protocols: we’ll ‘release’ toxins through fat loss and into the blood stream, therefore feeling worse.

There is evidence to support the former, but I haven’t seen peer-reviewed studies on “perception of misery while cleansing and elevation of environmental toxins in blood.”

Having done just about every detox, cleanse, and fast available on the planetexcept that Scientology hoohah - I’m well aware of how much they initially suck. Life is always better with cookies. But are the detoxes and cleanses necessary? Or are these products just a placebo at which we throw our money?

Yes and no. Since studies show us that these compounds do aid the liver in doing some of its important jobs, consuming more of them could aid in detoxification and reduce inflammation (the leading cause of disease). And yet, our body will do its very best to detoxify all day, every day regardless of whether you drink that cup of Yogi tea or not.

The question for us then is this: Can we mitigate the need for detoxification ‘protocols’ by simply eating well? I would argue, in most cases, yes. Those beneficial compounds are readily available in clean food sources and a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Equally, it could be argued that our environmental toxin exposure is much higher than evolution ever planned for, and thus some extra turmeric might just suit us fine.

In the mean time, just eat your vegetables. Your body knows what to do.

Ammi Midstokke can be reached at ammi@twobirdsnutrition.com.

Common motor symptoms include tremors, a slow and shuffling gait, balance issues, stooped posture and stiffness. Non-motor symptoms may include pain, depression, constipation, sleep disturbances, dementia and even psychosis. To make PD more complicated, everyone has a unique combination of symptoms. That’s why, if you’ve met one person with PD, you’ve met one person with PD — each of us is different.

Back to those of us PWPs (people with Parkinson’s) living in Bonner County: We all have family, friends, co-workers or acquaintances that are also touched by the disease. Figuring a conservative number (say a total of 50 each), PD directly impacts the lives of at least 6,000 souls—just in our small corner of Idaho. So, what’s it like to live with PD?

One of the challenging aspects of living with PD is when, what and how to share information about the diagnosis and to whom. I choose to be open. I see my role is to be advocate, to educate and to participate in research. I strongly believe: if not now, when and if not me, who? Conversely, others may be concerned about how people will react, especially in the workplace. They choose to be more discrete and that’s also appropriate. Each PWP decides what is best for them in their situation.

It’s easy to talk about motor symptoms but much harder to talk about sexual dysfunction, anxiety, pain, falling, dementia or seeing things that aren’t there. While I am not a typical PWP, I do have my own narrative. Diagnosed nearly five years ago I skipped the denial part having watched my dad deal with PD. My worsening tremors were also a big clue. After I read everything I could find, I attended several conferences and I had a heart-to-heart with my doctor. It was only then I began to consider myself lucky. Lucky? I have what is known as tremor dominant PD and that type is (usually) the slowest progressing and the least likely to lead to dementia or cognitive decline. For me, my tremor is simply there. Most of the time I don’t notice it. That doesn’t stop me, when I’m perfectly honest, from being scared shitless. I saw my dad die with PD; my brother’s father-in-law has

severe dementia and requires 24-hour care; I have seen PWPs using walkers or dependent upon a wheelchair; I know many PWPs with the scars indicating deep brain stimulation—brain surgery! I not only don’t know what the future will bring, I don’t know how much future I have. At times, I worry about having to leave our wonderful two-story house because I won’t be able to handle the stairs. I think about quality of life issues as the disease progresses. Will I have to stop driving? Will I need adult Pampers? What about the price of needed drugs? Will I end up a burden to family?

Mostly, I worry about my wife and angel. Remember, it’s not just me with PD, it’s also my wife, our kids and grandkids and even our friends. Pamela is frequently more aware of my PD than I am. I can’t see the facial masking or the soft voice. I don’t notice the menu shaking when we’re at a restaurant. I can’t read her mind when she gets concerned about what the future holds. Fortunately, neither of us dwells on the unknown — at least for very long.

But — there always seems to be a but — PD also impact relationships. Another reason I feel lucky with my tremor dominant PD is Pamela does not have to provide physical or medical care; instead she is my rock. She provides emotional support mixed with love. Despite a vow of “for better or for worse,” caregivers are sometimes overwhelmed. I know of three friends whose wives couldn’t handle the responsibility, the stress and the uncertainty. They are now all divorced. The thought of living alone with a progressive disease is terrifying.

Although I haven’t gotten the result back from an extensive genetic analysis (think 23andMe on steroids), I am concerned for my sons and grandsons. Various researchers and my doctor are convinced that my PD is not random. It is genetic and hereditary. Although I know intellectually that worrying about their odds of getting PD is not productive, it is something I think about.

A personal characteristic that drove my mom (and probably many others) nuts is my stubbornness; this trait can be labeled firmness or pig-headedness. No matter the words used, my innate stubbornness serves me well living with PD. I am determined to make the best life with PD for as long as possible. I can participate in research; I can exercise regularly; I can share my story; I can advocate; and I can maintain a positive attitude.

I have a poster on the wall that states, “Fate whispers to the Warrior: ‘You cannot withstand the storm.’ The Warrior whispers back: ‘I am the storm.’”

MCS to Moscow Jazz Fest

By Jodi Rawson Reader Contributor

The Music Conservatory of Sandpoint has a talented jazz ensemble that has worked hard in preparation for the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival beginning Feb. 22 in Moscow.

Thanks to the Pend Oreille Arts Council collaborating with the MCS, the ensemble was invited to open for the Montreal Guitar Trio Feb. 11. They played the same set they will perform at the Jazz Fest, and they were incredible. Right before Christmas they played for the Chamber of Commerce at Di Luna’s, and recently they performed a whole hour set for residents at The Bridge. These kids are sharp, disciplined musicians with classical music training and several upcoming gigs.

Nathan Baker has directed the Jazz Ensemble at MCS for three years, and he often leads by jamming on his upright bass. Denis Zwang is a consistent weekly mentor of the group and

a master on the sax, clarinet and flutes.

For over two years the Jazz Ensemble consisted of Alex Manning on the upright bass, Joey Uzabel on the drums, Andrew Martin on the guitar, and Pianist Jakob Samuels. This year the boys welcomed Dinah

Dimestore Prophets at the Niner

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

Head over to the 219 Lounge, 219 N. First Ave., for a special show featuring the Dimestore Prophets, a threepiece groove, rock and reggae band based in central Washington.

The show is Friday, Feb. 23, at 9 p.m. at the 219. It is free

and open to those 21 and over.

The Dimestore Prophets have been playing “feel-good music” across the Pacific Northwest since 2010, taking influence from everyone from Bob Marley to Sublime to the Clash to the Dirty Heads.

Rawson (playing the flute or violin) and Abby Baker (not pictured due to injury) on the upright bass.

The ensemble or band (jokingly known as “El Macho Nacho”) will stay a couple nights in Mos-

cow getting inspired by dozens of regional groups, performing their set and receiving constructive feedback.

Bon Voyage “El Macho Nacho!”

Get down and dirty with

Dirty Revival at The Hive

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

The Portland-based seven-piece Dirty Revival will bring it to The Hive on Saturday, Feb. 24, at 8 p.m.

Led by soulful vocals of Sarah Clarke, Dirty Revival’s influences range from funk-and soul-infused icons on the past. They’ve shared the stage with

musical heavy-hitters such as Michael Franti, George Clinton and the Parliament Funkadelic, Sir Mix-A-Lot, Slick Rick, Nappy Roots and more. Check them out at The Hive for $15 in advance, or $18 at the door. VIP tickets are available. Check out www. LiveFromTheHive.com for more info.

If you’re not sure what to get your hiking, biking, climbing significant other for a procrastinator’s Valentine’s Day gift, you can’t go wrong with “Scrambles in the Canadian Rockies.”

I bought this book for my boyfriend after borrowing it from a friend (who had purchased it after borrowing it from a different friend). While I don’t think my boyfriend has used it yet, personally, I have been immensely satisfied by my own endless borrowing of the book for off-the-main-trail adventures in Banff, the Spray Lakes and beyond.

READ LISTEN

Growing up, my mom always read a chapter of a book to us every night after supper, allowing us kids to devour endless classics while crafting, Lego-ing, sewing, you name it. One of our all-time favorite authors was James Herriot. Recently, I was absolutely thrilled to find his works on CD in the library’s audio section, just in time for a recent road trip. His stories of life as an English country vet are entertaining, brief, largely self-contained, and somehow are able to re-innoculate life with that sense of joy that most of us forget to carry into adulthood.

WATCH

…The flowers come up! Despite the rebound of the cold, I spotted the first tulips in my flower beds on Feb. 5. Spring is on its way, and there’s no better way to celebrate it than by regularly measuring the foolhardy little sprouts — or by setting up your own timelapse video with friends and family.

From Northern Idaho News, Friday, February 17, 1905

NARROWLY ESCAPES DEATH

Benjamin Jenson Caught in Recent Storm ---

Falling Tree Destroys Tepee

Those who were out in the storm last week testify that it was positively the worst that has been seen in Northern Idaho. Benjamin Jenson, a trapper, was on Upper Pack River looking after his traps during the cold weather. On the evening of the storm he attempted to cross the river and broke through the ice into the water.

He struggled out, wet and cold, and went to his tepee to change clothing and warm up. He noticed that a storm was coming but gave the matter but little thought till he came out of the tepee to start a fire. He noticed that a severe storm was raging.

This thought had no more than passed through his mind, and he began to realize the danger of the storm in the woods, when an exceptionally heavy gust of wind blew a large tree down on his tepee totally wrecking the same.

After the destruction of the house, he came to realize that some shelter must be sought. He started a good fire and took furnished apartments back of a big tree where he spent the time from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Mr. Jenson has been trapping for mink and otter all winter and has met with fair success.

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

Kelly’s Bar and Grill

By Drake the Dog Reader Pet Columnist

Where am I taking my humans today?

As I look outside, the beautiful sunny vista makes me yearn for summer, even though it’s -5 degrees. So I’m “digging into the archives” (as my buddy Kirk Miller says) to bring you up to speed on one of my favorite historical, now dog-friendly business. What tree am I barking up now?

•The Great Northern Railroad reached the town where this place resides in 1892.

•It’s considered to be the second oldest tavern in its state of residence-celebrating 124 years young!

•The builder-owner was a prominent business man and the first mayor of the town.

•The 24 x12 foot bar traveled from Philadelphia, around the Cape of Good Hope to San Francisco, and then took a three-month wagon trip to reach its destination.

•The owner kept a live (tame) bear in the back of the place to help customer’s sober up.

•This place was originally connected to a bathhouse and an icehouse.

•For a long time, it was a “men only” place.

•It survived many burglaries, fires and prohibition.

•Three locals bought it in November 2017.

Down boy – did you slurp up all of that ruff trivia stuff?

We’re heating up the car, popping it into 4-wheel drive, and sliding over to Kelly’s Bar and Grill, located at 324 W. Fourth St., only 23 miles from Sandpoint, just over the bridge in Newport, WA. My buddy Nakia Salazar (formerly from Baxter’s on Cedar) is now shakin’ things up at Kelly’s. He’s making a dog-gone good name for himself with the Rosemary Greyhounds and the Salty Dogs! Currently he’s purr-fecting a special Cosmuttpolitan and soon will be adding Barkardi Rum, Arfsolute and Kennel One Vodka, Puptron Silver Tequila, Bark Daniels and Dogs Equis Beer to the bar menu. Paws up, Nakia!

The Mister can’t wait to sink his teeth into Chef Peyton’s Wedding Burger, which is served a la carte since the divorce of the fries. She has worked at Kelly’s for nine years, and just returned from culinary school in Walla Walla. Her niche now is in the kitchen and she rocks the menu on Taco Tuesday and TGIF Friday with amazing specials.

Be sure to check out this fur-ward artsy

event. Kelly’s hosts Corks and Canvas on the third Thursday of each month. These and paint and sip parties offer step-bystep painting instruction. The pup-a-razzi reports that this is THE recipe for a great date night, girl’s night out, or even a treat for the kids. Check their Facebook page, Kelly’s 1894, for more details. Registration is required at corksandcanvasevents.com.

Give a bow-wow to the new owners Kenny Arthur, Mark and Claire Clark and their two-year-old purebred Lab, Zeb. They are putting their best paws forward revitalizing Kelly’s. Zeb convinced them to lay down the paw on a new, fenced, larger outdoor dog and family friendly patio, that will open before Rodeo Week. The new interior flooring will support Trivia Night (first and third Wednesdays) and weekly DJs with Karaoke! My set list will include “Hound Dog Man,” “Bad Bad LeRoy Brown” and “Rescue Me,” which is my tribute to the Mister and Missus. Kelly’s will be in the lead with two country bands during Rodeo week (June 22), Texas Twister and Last Chance. I’m sending out invite tweets to my pack members in Beagle, Ore..; Doggie Trail Calif.; Poodle Lake, Canada; Shepard, N. D.; and Sniff Lake, Minn., to join me on the patio at Kelly’s during the dog days of summer. It will be a barkin’ good time, as no dog is a bad dancer—‘cause they have two left feet!

Kelly’s Dog Rules:

1. Leashes please

2. Stay with your owner — under the table is preferable

3. Well-behaved four-footed foodies only

4. OK to play corn hole during the day

5. Dog-friendly patio hours 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. serving drinks only

6. Shaka-paws accepted for treats

7. Service dogs always welcome inside

Hugs and frigid slobbery dog kisses. -Drake

Isn’t it funny how one minute life can be such a struggle, and the next minute you’re just driving real fast, swerving back and forth across the road?

CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1. Throat-clearing sound

5. Pertaining to the oceans

10. Bit of gossip

14. A pale blue pigment

15. Mournful poem

16. Killer whale

obsequious /uh b-SEE-kwee-uh s/ [adjective]

Week of the

1. characterized by or showing servile complaisance or deference; fawning: an obsequious bow.

“Don’t be obsequious, Jeeves, talk to me straight.”

Corrections: We dropped one event on the Winter Carnival story last week. Also, the Idaho Conservation League member present at the exploratory drilling meeting was Brad Smith, not Matt Nykiel. Finally, there was a minor typo in our Paulette Jordan interview, which has been corrected online.

17. Tropical American wildcat

18. Modi cation

20. The washing of clothes

22. Fiasco

23. Anagram of “Bid”

24. Requested

25. They keep dozing o

32. Listens

33. Unwarranted

34. Bar bill

37. Paddles

38. Ancient Celtic priest

39. Drunkard

40. L

41. Backward-looking

42. A type of small mammal

43. Compulsively

45. San Antonio fort

49. East southeast

50. Sailing competition

53. Embrace

57. Flashiness

59. Sea eagle

60. Utilized

61. Redress

62. Chair

63. Views

64. Prongs

Solution on page 26

65. Droops

DOWN

Cain’s brother

Hello

Beige

Rambles

Close

Crony

Animal doctor 8. Elderly 9. Stringed instrument 10. Scintillas

11. Deception

12. French school

13. Anagram of “Amend”

19. Degrade

21. Subsides

25. Sneaker or pump

26. Loyal (archaic)

27. Nobleman

28. Aches

29. Habituate

30. “Bye”

31. Clunker

34. An inde nite period

35. A Freudian stage

36. Gaunt

38. Cotillion girl

39. Without a ripple

41. Ancestors

42. Platter

44. Detects

45. A giant with 100 eyes (Greek mythology)

46. Rental agreement

47. Concur

48. Female domestics

51. Not this

52. Against

53. Feudal worker

54. District

55. Catch

56. Animal companions

58. Many millennia