Reader_Jan28_2016

an interview with swim coach Mike Brosnahan

(wo)MAN

compiled by Susan Drinkard

on the street

If you could fix or repair one problem here in our region, what would it be?

“Bullying in schools and also cyber bullying.”

Amber Sixth grader at Farmin-Stidwell Sandpoint

“I would improve services for our veterans in the region by speeding up help from the V.A.”

Fred Alaskan mechanic Sagle

“It’s too late now, but I would put the trees back at Memorial Field. Who is responsible for cutting down those beautiful trees?”

Jill Price Goodwill employee Bonner County

“Improve downtown. In order to draw people downtown they should dam up Sand Creek by Bridge Street to make an ice skating rink and maybe build an island in the middle to use as a park, maybe even a water park. In the summer they could have paddle boats. And then have some of the stores face the water.”

George Collier Salesperson Sandpoint

“I am concerned about women and men who are in abusive situations. We need to expand our present services to make sure there is a way these people can keep their pets while they are in shelters because pets are important for good mental health. I think we need to focus on building tiny houses for our region’s homeless... that they could eventually own.”

Pat Hewitt

Kennel technician at PAS Sandpoint

“Bring in a full two-year or fouryear college to build an educated workforce to attract potential employers who would pay decent salaries. This college would also have certificated programs for job training.”

Rich Shveyda

Photographer Ponderay

DEAR READERS,

Want to win a $50 gift certificate to Eichardt’s Pub and help out your favorite weekly newspaper at the same time? The Reader has teamed up with SandpointOnline and Sandpoint Magazine for the second year in offering up a media survey to the public. We’re hoping to get as many people we can to take three minutes and fill out the survey so we can learn about your media preferences.

The goal of the survey is to hopefully glean some ideas about how we can make our publications more viable for our readers. So take a moment, if you would, and fill out the survey at www.bit.ly/SandpointMediaSurvey2016 and help us out.

In other news, I didn’t get to use this space last week to thank the many people who have helped see us through our first year being back in action. Chris and Sandy Bessler and the rest of the gang at Keokee have been a tremendous resource for the Reader. Jen Landis did a great job getting ad sales off the ground. Special thanks to all of our columnists who give us their work for no compensation and add so much flavor to the Reader. Also, thanks to our advertisers for keeping the lights and the heat on at Reader HQ. We appreciate you all!

-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)

Contributing Artists: Kris Dills (cover), Ben Olson, Daniel Cape, Cort Gifford.

Contributing Writers: Cameron Rasmusson, Ben Olson, Nick Gier, Scarlette Quille, Cort Gifford, Jessica Bowman, Drake the Dog, Suzen Fiskin.

Submit stories to: stories@sandpointreader.com

Printed weekly at: Griffin Publishing Spokane, Wash.

Subscription Price: $95 per year

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

Web Content: Keokee

$1 off

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:

Friday, Jan. 29 @ 6:30pm

–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

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About the Cover

This week’s cover features a painting by Sandpoint artist Kris Dill, who owns Infini Gallery on Cedar St. The piece is done with acrylic and also features three-dimensional mediums such as rocks glued onto the surface. You can see more of Kris Dills’ work at the Infini Gallery at 214 Cedar St. B in Sandpoint.

COMMENTARY

Republicans still clinging to a mythical Ronald Reagan

By Nick Gier Reader Columnist

Feb. 6 is former President Ronald Reagan’s 115th birthday, and the myths about him, many times over refuted, continue to intoxicate the minds of many Americans.

The GOP presidential candidate who most often compares himself to Reagan is Sen. Marco Rubio. In the American Spectator (5/19/15) Paul Kengor states that several of the GOP candidates have “Reagan-like qualities, but Rubio especially strikes me as the closest to Reagan we’ve seen in a while.”

In a recent speech Rubio promised that “when I become president of the United States, our adversaries around the world will know that America is no longer under the command of someone weak like Barack Obama, and it will be like Ronald Reagan where as soon as he took office, the hostages were released from Iran.”

This claim has long been discredited, and Rubio and others who continue to spout it should know that it is false. The Carter administration had done all the hard bargaining for the release of the hostages, and

How

would you like the world

to be?

Dear Editor, I dreamed about us. All of us. Under the stars, silent, deeply troubled people sat around a small fire on a very long night. Then the fire became the burning heart of Earth and around it the firelit face of every human soul. The world’s pain upon us, the sadness the anger, the fear. Close around us in the dark all life waited.

Then, there came a sweet sumer breeze and, simple as the voice of a child, I heard one question:

“How would you like the world to be? No excuses, no reasons it can’t be, just pretend it.”

Many aduults hung their heads, hearts so broken by the bad news they could not answer. But the children could and did! That did

because the Iranians disliked Carter so much, they did not release them until Reagan came into office.

Reagan talked tough, but those threats were not always matched by decisive action. Even though his advisers encouraged him to do it, Reagan refused to invade Panama to remove dictator and drug trafficker Manuel Noriega. The brutal invasion, which may have caused 3,000 civilian deaths versus 23 U. S. troops killed, was undertaken by President H. W. Bush in December 1989.

Reagan’s intervention in the Lebanon’s civil war was reckless and ended in unmitigated disaster. He ordered the battleship New Jersey to shell Lebanese villages indiscriminately. On Oct. 23, 1983, Hezbollah militants, who had heretofore been fighting Maronite Christians and fellow Muslims, retaliated. They drove a truck bomb into a Marine barracks and 241 soldiers died. Reagan pulled out all U. S. forces and the result was a major victory for Hezbollah and Iran.

Much has been made about Reagan’s great challenge to the Soviets in 1987: “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!”

it! Bravely, one by one, we all answered. We all listened. What we heard changed everything!

Mind blowing and dam bursting! Tears of joy and wonder all all around. Embracing, singing and with the sunrise we arose to transform our world, because we finally believed we could!

I awoke from the dream, but the vision will haunt me ‘til it comes true. Our story is at the exciting part you guys, “The Fair Lady” in real trouble. It’s time for heroes and it’s just us! But there’s a lot of us. Seven billion people now and nobody likes how it’s all going?! Seven billion people and our technology puts us all in the same room (or around the same fire).

I propse a simple global survey. One little question that cuts through all the “us and them” in the world. One little question that

Four days after the Berlin Wall came down in 1989, a poll, reported in Will Bunch’s “Tear down This Myth,” showed that 43 percent of Americans believed that Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev was responsible for the wall’s demolition. Only 14 percent gave Reagan credit, not surprising because his gener al approval rating had dropped to 48 percent.

When it came to nuclear war Reagan was anything but tough. Soon after seeing the film “The Day After,” a powerful movie about a nuclear holocaust criticized as peacenik propaganda by conservatives, Reagan sent a telegram to the movie’s director and said that the movie had changed his mind about nuclear disarmament.

ons. When President Obama envisioned a world without nukes in a 2009 speech, his call for accelerated disarmament was ridiculed by GOP leaders and Reagan’s putative heirs.

Obama has also been heavily criticized for negotiating a deal with Iran, which just led to the removal of 11 tons of 20 percent-enriched uranium from that country. Iran had no weapons grade materials, and since 2003 it had no plans to build a bomb.

Reagan’s advisers were shocked when at the 1986 Reykjavik Summit, he proposed the total abolition of nuclear weap-

might take all the courage we’ve got to answer.

“How would you like this world to be?”

From the heart, just pretend it!

Greg Flint Sandpoint

Disappointed...

Dear Editor,

I was dismayed to hear that Mayor Rognstad buckled under pressure and took his proposal to welcome the Syrian refugees off of the table.

“Welcome Back to the White Homeland!”

I hear the voices of the dissenters in my head:

“We hate everyone who is not like us. If you look different, act different, eat different, have a

traded arms for hostages, but he was forced to return to them in March 1987 to admit that his administration had indeed done so.

Republican leaders boast about Reagan’s courage to cut taxes and still grow the economy. What they neglect to mention is that Reagan was forced to raise taxes six times in order to head off huge budget deficits. Even so, Reagan tripled the national debt, primarily because of huge, unnecessary military expenditures.

Reagan promised that he would never talk to the Iranians, but Oliver North arranged for arms sales to Iran in hopes of releasing hostages held in Lebanon. North used profits from the sales to support rebels fighting the duly elected government of Nicaragua.

In November 1986 Reagan announced to the American people that the U. S. had not

different religion, wear different clothes... we don’t like you!

We don’t want any Muslims in our city/county!

We don’t want any black people, hippies, brown, tan, red, yellow or green people. We certainly don’t want any blue people. Everyone knows that those blue Smurfs are pot-smoking communists!

We don’t want any Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, agnostics, atheists, Zoroastrians, pantheists, Jewish people or nature worshippers. If you pray to a God with a different name, we got a problem with you.

We don’t want any high-minded intellectuals in our town, no free thinkers or any other intelligent people in our city. We don’t like free speech that differs from ours. If you are smarter than us we want you to leave. If you have

In 2014, calling on the name of Reagan, Kansas Governor Sam Brownback won substantial tax cuts claiming that they would lead to great economic growth, which did not happen. In June 2015 the Legislature reluctantly voted for $432 million in new taxes, the largest increase in the state’s history.

The current GOP presidential candidates have also called for major tax cuts. If any of them are elected president and the promised growth does not happen, will they follow Reagan’s example, or will they subject the nation to certain economic disaster?

Nick Gier of Moscow taught philosophy at the University of Idaho for 31 years.

compassion for people who have escaped from their war-torn country, we don’t like you either. You need to leave also.

We only want people who call themselves Christians and think like we do, but do not act like Jesus told us to act in the Sermon on the Mount.

We don’t like people who tell us that we haven’t done our research on this subject. There is no doubt in our minds that most Muslims are bad and dangerous. We are sure of it.

Most of all we don’t like those guys who write these kinds of letters to the Reader

And, to be perfectly honest, we don’t like each other very much either.”

Allan Bopp Sandpoint

PERSPECTIVES

Meat Fire 2016

There are times I go home at night, throw on a pair of threadbare yoga pants, fix myself a plate of cheese and crackers and watch “Magic Mike XXL” on repeat. I think to myself, this is the life.

My current romantic arrangement is perfect for me, as it allows for this type of “me” time. Marriage felt a lot like maximum security prison. I do not understand how a person can willingly enter into an arrangement where it is OK for another person to hang around 24/7 logging every move and every infraction.

As irritating as it is for me to be micro-managed, I can only imagine what life must be like for those who try to appoint themselves as my manager. I don’t do well with structured expectations and schedules, I am not a built-in water feature in your garden. I don’t come with

Sandpoint’s Resolve...

Dear Editor,

Last Wednesday I asked the council to withdraw the Resolution Affirming the City of Sandpoint’s Commitment to Human Rights and Non-Discrimination. I had proposed the resolution because I felt it was important for the city to take a symbolic stance affirming our compassion for those fleeing extreme violence and poverty. I also felt that it affirmed our traditional American values of religious and ethnic tolerance and respect of human rights.

As has been stated by me and County Commissioners alike, there is nothing the city or the county can do to effect the U.S. refugee policy. That is, no decision the city, or any local government

an on and off switch. I am more of a free flowing river with unpredictable depths and current. This free-flowing lifestyle is enhanced by the fact that I have four children. It’s a miracle that I have dated anyone in the last 16 years, or ever for that matter. When you’re a single mom with more kids then sense, you know that only someone completely insane or with a bunch of kids of their own would agree to an arrangement with you. It is what it is.

Last Monday night, I was scheduled to play in a volleyball game, attend a meeting for a proposed pageant activity and cook a nice dinner. OK, right?

I put the meat on low in a pan on the oven to let it simmer into deliciousness. My 5-yearold son decided he would like to shower and demanded that we retrieve him his man soap. He has become quite particular about his showering habits and prefers to shower with Axe body

makes will bring refugees here OR deny them access to our community. We are just as safe from ISIS whether we had passed the resolution or not. Unfortunately this important fact was generally lost to many who feared the resolution was an effort to relocate refugees in Sandpoint. They felt it threatened our security and safety. In fact it only threatened our identity as a community.

I did not foresee that by addressing the issue we would risk reinforcing the unfortunate image that we as a community have worked so hard to overcome. For inviting this unintended consequence I am truly sorry to Sandpoint and Bonner County. The city’s message has a powerful effect on our community identity. Our community pride I’ve heard many visitors say is our most dis-

incinerated meat.

happened in that shower. He maintains that he slipped while “licking the shower door.”

wash “like the big kids do.” I don’t know how he gathered this information—he is the only male that lives in our house. I don’t know much about the showering habits of 5-year-old boys, but I figured that at least he was wanting to bathe. This is a huge improvement from last week, when he let me know that I “need to lay off the whole ‘making him take a bath’ thing,” or he was going to move out. As fate would have it I would not be playing volleyball that night, or learning about the expectations of pageant moms. My son decided to do something in the shower that resulted in him cutting his lip, an injury that when mixed with water, had him emerge from the shower looking like a scene from “Carrie.” We called Grandma over for back up or in case a trip to the ER was needed. After the initial scare it was determined it would be no more than a fat lip and a scratch. I asked him over and over what

tinguished quality. It may not be why people come here, but it is the reason they stay. It is the reason they start a business, raise a family and relocate here. Sandpoint’s 2001 Human Dignity Resolution mandates the council “to communicate a strong, clear message that any form of prejudice or hatred will not be tolerated in our community.” Despite the outcome of Wednesday night’s resolution, Sandpoint is a community that celebrates tolerance, compassion and human dignity and will continue to do so in the future.

Mayor Shelby Rognstad Sandpoint

Immigration...

Dear Editor, Consider the Muslim refugee situation in Scandinavia and

Yes, in all the activity with the disappointed pageant hopeful and shower licker, I forgot about my fantasy of cooking a spectacular dinner. Dinner was now a grease fire, filling my house with a noxious meat fire smoke cloud.

After this crisis was handled I headed to the parent pageant meeting and was promptly pulled over for having a headlight out. The universe was clearly trying to thwart my attempts at a productive evening, as it took 30 minutes for the police officer to ascertain the most criminal activity I had been up to that night was a bad headlight— that, and my outfit. I was released in time to miss my meeting.

Later that evening while sleep ing, I dreamed of being engulfed by flames. Why was everything on fire in this vast hellscape? My dream was so vivid I could almost taste the smoke. At 3 a.m. I awoke to a house full of smoke and the pungent aroma of

In case you don’t know what a meat fire smells like: imagine setting a large turd on fire and then having it run around your house breathing its hot, shitty breath on every fabric item you own. The stench hangs around long after the fire is out. It is inescapable.

My children went to school that day smelling like burnt feces poorly covered with an obscene amount of febreze.

I have had a couple of walks of shame in my life, but there is nothing quite like walking into work with bloodshot eyes wreaking of burnt fecal matter.

Nothing like it.

The lesson here is: If you are going to date a single parent, think long and hard about how you would handle something like a meat fire, or a kid who licks shower doors. It is part of who we are.

Good luck.

Scarlette Quille

Europe, remove the blinders, and contemplate reality.

Frankly, I’ve had enough of the blinkered, politically correct world of tolerance, diversity, multiculturalism, sensitivity training, compassion, and other feel-good edicts of such importance to the obsessively offended warm and fuzzy crowd.

Where is it written I am required to accommodate a religion (Islam, aka ISIS, Boko Haram, Hezbollah, etc.) that dictates subjugation and/or death to infidels?

I can’t find that directive in our Constitution, can you? Where is it written the USA has to accept any refugees from anywhere? I can’t find it in our Constitution, can you?

The Constitution does, however, recognize the Commander-in-Chief’s primary responsi-

bility as defense of the homeland. This means American citizens are number one, not refugees and/or immigrants.

A counter-terrorism expert put it very well, stating ‘… what’s going on now in Germany most certainly is a clash of cultures.’

True, a clash with a culture that seems to abhor assimilation and is intolerant to the nth degree. Specifically, how’s Germany’s program of tolerant compassion working out? Where has politically incorrect common sense gone?

Do you want this culture here? I don’t.

God bless America, and God bless our military.

Steve Brixen Sandpoint

Same-sex marriage debate surrounds tax law

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff

You wouldn’t figure routine tax conformity legislation would prompt a fierce debate over same-sex marriage and constitutional law. But that was the case in Boise on Monday, when Rep. Heather Scott, R-Blanchard, clashed with Deputy Attorney General Phil Skinner over Idaho’s legal authority.

The House Revenue and Taxation Committee passed IRS tax conformity legislation in a 13-3 vote Monday. But the bill received spirited opposition from Scott, who took issue with a portion bringing Idaho tax code in line with nationally recognized same-sex marriage. According to the Spokesman-Review, Idaho tax law previously required same-sex couples to rework their state

•LETTERS•

City Resolution...

Dear Editor,

As disappointed as I was with the outcome of the Refugee Resolution I want to thank Mayor Rognstad for his leadership and maturity on the issue.

During an extremely difficult time, he was able to see and feel the wedge driven into the heart of Sandpoint community and the divisive nature of the issue. I attended all of the meetings and had the opposite happened, the passing of any form of resolution—no matter how benign the language, it would have been like throwing gasoline on the fire. It was clear that the resolution would have no bearing on whether refugees will resettle here or not, and that few if any of those opposed would change their attitudes and beliefs either way.

As previously mentioned, I was disappointed that a resolution pertaining to non-discrimination and human rights did not pass. My disappointment primarily stems from witnessing the lack of com-

taxes if they were filing joint federal taxes.

Scott questioned why the committee was considering the legislation, given Idaho still has a constitutional amendment defining marriage as between one man and one woman. According to the Spokesman-Review, this kicked off a debate on constitutional authority, with Skinner saying that the 1803 case of Marbury vs. Madison cemented “the United States Constitution [as] the supreme law of the land, and the U.S. Supreme Court is the body with the authority to interpret that law and declare what it is.”

“I apologize, I’m not a lawyer. But I do understand this little one here,” Scott replied, referring to the U.S. Congress’ enumerated powers in Article 1, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution. “So I just wonder, in

passion by some in our community for others who may be suffering.

However I did feel as though I grew through the process, coming to an interesting realization that while we were intending to demonstrate our tolerance and compassion for individuals coming from the other side of the world, who we really know little of, we had an extremely difficult time finding that same compassion and understanding for those among us who are living in fear and feel differently on the issue.

I do believe Sandpoint is a great city with understanding, tolerant, and compassionate citizens.

I also believe this exercise is just what we needed, to keep the conversation going, as much as we are exhausted on it, It’s evident that it needs to happen for any significant change to occur.

Again, thank you Mr. Mayor and the City Council for putting out the fire!

Sincerely,

Steve Holt Sandpoint

Section 8, which enumerated power are you using to accomplish this?”

Skinner countered that last year’s same-sex ruling was given authority through the constitutional powers of the U.S. Supreme Court. But Scott

Kudos...

Dear Editor, Kudos to Ben Olson on his most recent editorial on the city of Sandpoint dropping the resolution affirming human rights, inclusion, and non-discrimination. The editorial was on point and eloquently stated. Congratulations are also in order to the Sandpoint Reader on their one-year anniversary. The Reader is an outstanding publication and I’m very grateful for the fresh voice it brings to Sandpoint.

Stephen Augustine Sandpoint

Thanks Stephen. [BO]

Are you interested in having your opinion heard? Write a letter to the editor! Please send letters under 400 words to letters@sandpointreader.com. Please make sure to refrain from using any profanity or libelous comments.

objected to passing law that contradicted the Idaho State Constitution.

“If we want to pass this part of the bill, then we need to make a change to our state Constitution,” she said.

Scott detailed her position on her Facebook page before the vote, receiving voices of support—and some criticism— in the comment section.

“If we do not want this definition as a state, we have the ability to change our state constitution,” Scott wrote. “A vote of yes on this bill will be against our state constitution. Watch how the committee votes. It does not matter which side of the issue you are on.

I keep reading the U.S. Constitution Article 1 Section [8] and cannot figure out which enumerated power gives the feds the authority to define marriage.”

Oregon standoff sees bloodshed, arrests

After a tense month-long standoff, the armed resistance in Burns, Ore., led by Ammon Bundy looks to be on its last legs. Eight are arrested, including Ammon and Ryan Bundy, and one man, Robert “LaVoy” Finicum, is dead following a confrontation with the FBI. A loose band of militia members remains entrenched at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.

Dubbed by many as the de facto leader of the movement, Ammon Bundy, the son of famous anti-federal government rancher Cliven Bundy, is now asking the remaining militiamen to leave the refuge. It remains to be seen whether or not they will comply.

The Burns, Ore., standoff has been the subject of national conversation since it started in December. It even made local waves when District 1 representatives Heather Scott, R-Blanchard, and Sage Dixon, R-Ponderay, joined a contingent of Washington, Utah, Idaho and Oregon legislators to investigate the situation. [CR]

Waterkeeper seeks donations for storm water runoff program

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

Lake Pend Oreille Waterkeeper (LPOW) plans to kickoff a new Citizen Science program this spring called the Storm Water Monitoring Program.

The non-profit organization aims to collect monthly samples of storm water in Sandpoint and Ponderay to determine whether this runoff carries common pollutants into local waterways during rain and snow events.

As this months-long endeavor can become expensive, LPOW is seeking donations to reach their goal of $20,000 by March 1 to cover costs of the laboratory tests.

“Storm water” refers to rain or melt-water runoff which collects and flows over hard surfaces like rooftops, parking lots and yards. It’s one of the biggest threats to water quality across the nation because storm water picks up items like litter, sediment, metals and synthetic chemicals as it flows over these hard surfaces. As the vast majority of storm water is untreated, any harmful substances it picks up along its journey eventually might end up in the water where pipes and culverts are emptied.

Since no state agency or other organization currently tracks the contents of storm water in the Lake Pend Oreille region, LPOW wants to determine what potential pollutants this runoff carries and how those pollutants might affect the health of local waterways and the people who use them.

To make a donation to the program or to volunteer, point your web browser to www. lakependoreillewaterkeeper. org/storm-water-monitoring-program.

Switching to Plan B:

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff

The Bonner County Planning Commission has a problem, one it’s struggling to resolve.

In December, the governmental body responsible for decisions on county land use and property regulations were asked by the Bonner County Board of Commissioners to consider procedural changes that would lessen its own authority. The change would essentially remove the criteria and fees for appealing the commission’s decisions, effectively initiating a new review process overseen by Bonner County commissioners. Last Thursday, the Planning Commission remanded the proposal back to staff for retooling, delaying for a second time a final decision on the measure.

The proposed appeals change would be unusual enough on its own. But it’s just one part of an apparent philosophical shift in county planning, and that shift has seen the entire department upended.

According to Bonner County Commissioner Todd Sudick, the review of planning policies dates back to an overhaul of the county comprehensive plan in 2007. The next year, the county revamped its zoning regulations to match.

“After seven years it was time to review that change and see what made sense and what did not,” Sudick said. “In addition, the planning process was unwieldy and cumbersome. The citizens of Bonner County overwhelmingly wanted change.”

It’s the conflict between streamlined procedures and existing county law that cost former county planner Dan Carlson his job, according to his lawsuit filings against the county. In a legal statement of grievance, Carlson said that he and Sudick clashed in August over the permitting process of a

Shakeups at Bonner County Planning Department stir controversy

cell tower. Sudick was allegedly irritated by the requirement for Bonner County Road and Bridge to sign off on the project and wanted planning to find away around it. Carlson replied the procedure was a matter of county code and asked whether Sudick wanted him to break the law. According to statements from Carlson and several of his former co-workers, the confrontation was tense and heated.

“I perceived Commissioner Sudick’s tone and demeanor to be very intimidating and threatening as he had raised his voice to a yelling tone,” said Tina Smith in her statement. “I was very uncomfortable to hear my supervisor talked to in such a harassing manner, and it made me sick to my stomach.”

After investigating the claims and Sudick’s version of events, the Bonner County Board of Commissioners denied Carlson’s grievances in September and then fired him on Oct. 13. Carlson has since filed a lawsuit alleging the commissioners violated open meeting law when deciding to fire him. He has also submitted a tort claim for wrongful termination seeking $1 million.

Carlson wasn’t the only figure in planning leadership to face professional consequences. Longtime planning director Clare Marley was first demoted down to Carlson’s position after his firing. Two weeks ago, she was also fired.

As the commissioners move to reshape the planning department, their philosophy of fewer regulations and quick, streamlined turnaround is a guiding force. Even the planning director job listing advertised by the county sought a professional used to working under small government and limited regulation.

According to Sudick, the ultimate goal is a reshaped land

use plan that serves the needs of Bonner County. He said previous policies were based on ill-fitting, generic code that established onerous and unnecessary demands on property owners.

“It must be Bonner County’s land use plan not a generic [American Planning Association]-inspired document,” Sudick said. “Our last Comprehensive plan came from a county in Washington State and the name was changed to Bonner County.”

Commissioners started on that path by relaxing building permit regulations in December, exempting some types of structures from the requirement and expanding the maximum size of structures allowed under permit.

The change concerned John Dowling of Panhandle Health District. With fewer notifications about building projects coming into his office, the likelihood of property owners building over their septic system or the space reserved for a replacement septic system increased. He said it’s a risk that comes with potentially serious impacts on public health, particularly for lakeside properties.

Planning Commission. To limit spurious appeals, existing regulations to appealing a Planning Commission decision require that the case meets at least one of five requirements. An appeal also requires a fee. Given the often contentious nature of planning decisions, the regulations are designed to ensure appellants have a solid case.

“Nearly every decision we make makes an unhappy neighbor,” said Planning Commissioner Greg Snow.

The proposed changes eliminate both the standards for review and the fee. It also mandates that appeals go straight to the commissioners for de novo consideration, meaning that all public testimony and deliberation during the Planning Commission meeting wouldn’t necessarily apply to a final decision.

Planning Commission members worried the deregulation would result in a flood of appeals to the Bonner County commissioners. Commission members and residents also took issue with the de novo proceedings, which they felt hurt public involvement.

deregulation in general is an increased vulnerability to potential lawsuits. Worse still, government insurance plans typically don’t cover litigation from land use decisions, meaning the cost goes straight to the taxpayers. A lawsuit against Boise County’s handling of the Alamar Ranch project, for instance, resulted in a $4 million verdict against the government. The county ultimately had to raise taxes to cover the payments.

“Land use decisions can be some of the most expensive lawsuits cities and counties face,” said Jeremy Grimm, former department head for the Sandpoint Planning and Zoning.

Commission members remanded the procedural changes back to staff for tweaking. While most were in favor of expediting the appeals process, the removal of all protections concerned them.

“Now [property owners] are free to do whatever they want because we aren’t the ones holding them up,” he said.

Then there’s the proposed change to the appeals process still under consideration by the

“Citizens who have written a letter or given testimony [to the Planning Commission] think, ‘OK I’ve been heard,’” said resident Molly O’Reilly. “And now suddenly they’re not heard.”

A final concern in both the appeals retooling and planning

“I get the attempt to speed up the process and make it less expensive on the public,” Planning Commissioner Steve Temple said. “What I don’t support is removing standards.” Planning issues will likely continue to dog Bonner County as the year advances. The county’s search for a new planning director is ongoing. The Planning Commission’s final recommendation on the appeals process revisions is yet to be resolved. And a conflict between Alpine Cedar Mill and neighboring property owners over the business’ expansion is poised to become a grueling legal battle. As a homeowner, Grimm hopes this ongoing battle of planning philosophies won’t translate to lower home values or lost property sales.

“I worry that this could have a chilling effect on the real estate market,” he said.

Bouquets:

• I would like to give a bouquet to William, of Zero Point in Sandpoint. For two years in a row he has brought his beautiful sound bowls to share their amazing healing vibrations with the residents of Luther Park and my students. What a gift to us all! Thank you for your kindness, William. -Submitted by Cynthia Mason.

•Special thanks goes out to the event staff at Taps on Schweitzer. Playing in a band is a lot of fun, but it’s also a lot of work loading gear, sound checking, etc. I love playing music at Taps for several reasons, but most of all it’s because of people like Chief, who meets bands at their cars, helps load gear, and generally makes himself available for bands at all times. It really helps make the shows go smoothly.

Barbs:

•I absolutely can’t believe people are still on board with presidential candidate Donald Trump, especially after his latest comment.

At a recent rally, Trump was bragging about the loyalty of his followers. He said, “I could stand in the middle of 5th Avenue and shoot somebody and I wouldn’t lose voters.”

I don’t even know where to begin with this comment. Not only does it show that his followers are a bunch of brainwashed idiots, but it also shows that he has no business being in any position of authority if he’s going to be making such offensive comments as this.

I think a lot of the problems that we have in this country right now are stemming from this very man, who seems to give tacit approval of any hateful, bombastic, invalid comments because he makes just as many of them as the ignorant public does. We don’t need a reactionary bully in office as president. The fact that his polling numbers are so high is mind-blowing. 8

Volunteer Spotlight: Lois

Miller, the Mother Superior of The Cottage Thrift Store

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

It’s easy to see why everyone loves Lois Miller. The smiling, outspoken founder of the Cottage Thrift Store is usually greeted by smiles and hugs wherever she goes, and for good reason; she deserves them.

Six years ago, at the tender young age of 82, Miller decided it was the perfect time to start up a thrift store to help benefit Panhandle Special Needs, Inc. (PSNI).

“The economy was taking a nose dive,” she recalled. “I said we should think about starting up a thrift store. We found this house and it was empty. I knew it was meant to be.”

Miller saw potential in the old home next to PSNI headquarters at 1410 N. Boyer Ave.

“It was real classy, unlike any other thrift store in town,” she said. “At first the property manager didn’t want to do it, so I told him I’d bring my lunch into his office and do a sit in. I was 82 years old and I didn’t know if I had that much time left.”

Six years later, at 88, Lois Miller is a standard fixture around the Cottage, both greeting customers and helping to rally the morale of volunteers.

“Working with Lois is like working with your best friend,” said volunteer Diane Newcomer. “She would never ask a volunteer to do something she wouldn’t do herself. She’s fair but not afraid to speak her mind, and make her reasons understood. There are no mistakes to Lois, just things that

could be done differently for different outcomes.”

Miller walks me around the Cottage, showing off each room as if it were her own home. Built in 1910, the house used to belong to the supervisor of an experimental farm in the field to the east of it.

“I love this old house,” she said, beaming with pride. A unique feature of the Cottage is that each room features the items that would normally be found in that room. For example, walking through the kitchen, you’ll find dishes, appliances and flatware. In the bathroom—which Miller refers to as the “shop and go” room, you can find items for your own home bathroom. Upstairs, the library features an expansive collection of fiction and nonfiction books, as well as a whole room dedicated to children’s books and toys.

Miller noted that the Cottage is always on the lookout for more volunteers and of course, they are always interested in donations.

“We don’t take mattresses or televisions,” said Miller. “We also don’t take clothing. It smells funny, no matter what you do with it. Everything else for home and garden we accept gladly. We’re looking for quality home treasures.”

As we walk throughout the Cottage, Miller points out that she is not alone in making the Cottage function so well.

“This place wouldn’t exist without the volunteers,” said Miller. There are about 29 volunteers who donate their time to the thrift store—volunteers like

Leslie Hall, who donates her time because, “I have a special place in my heart for people with special needs. I came in here and fell in love, it’s the cutest thrift store you’ve ever seen.”

Across the parking lot, Miller introduces me to everyone at PSNI, starting at the work services program. Workers with PSNI are called “participants” or “clients” and are responsible for the janitorial work at the Cottage, as well as working in other fields both on and off site.

“I love the clients,” said Miller. “I’ve been working with the developmentally disabled for 45 years and I absolutely love it. It’s what I was meant to do.”

According to Miller, she believes the world has become a much better place in relation to those with special needs.

“When you set limits for people, they’ll never surpass them,” she said.

One of the greatest aspects of the Cottage is that every dollar earned goes into the PSNI general fund. Over six years, dozens of volunteers have donated close to 12,000 hours of their time to keep the Cottage operating. Because of income generated by the Cottage, the work services wing of PSNI is

still in operation today.

“This program was in jeopardy of being shut down,” said Jean Post, one of the directors of PSNI. “Thanks to Lois and her volunteer friends, the income from the Cottage saved the work services program.”

Miller made her way through the work services room, with the workers all hugging her and treating her like a Mother Superior figure. Some were shredding documents, taking precautions to remove staples that might damage the shredding machines. Others, like Dewey Horowitz, filled bags with wood chips for the local company Lignetics.

“We’re always looking for something new for our participants to do,” said Caryl Abbott, manager of work services for PSNI. “They do such a great job, the product is always correct.”

At 88 years old, Lois Miller shows no signs of slowing down. She’s always on hand to lend a word of advice, or listen to a story, or simply offer up a smile to someone who might be having a rough day.

“She’s a remarkable person,” said Newcomer. “She’s proof that age is only a number on paper. Lois has never let her age slow her down. If she can do a job, she does it!”

Make yourself at home:

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

When you walk into the Infini Gallery in Sandpoint, invariably the first thing Kris Dills says is, “Make yourself at home.”

The owner of the newest art gallery and studio in Sandpoint, Dills has worked hard to cultivate that feeling of home at Infini. After attending one of his painting workshops, I can attest that whatever he’s doing is working.

The gallery is warm, modern and adorned with hardwood flooring from wall to wall. The paintings that line the wall vary from landscapes to abstracts, all featuring cool, funky designs and color schemes.

In the center of the room, a raised platform features 16 stalls for the classes, each with a canvas and painting supplies at hand. Dills hopes the “wine and canvas” type events will not only generate income for the gallery, but open up painting to a wide variety of people.

“I want people to feel like they can work here comfortably,” said Dills. “You can bring your own materials and work in a professional downtown environment, or you can use our materials.”

Dills, who worked as a plumber in Sandpoint for 16 years, opened Infini Gallery and Studio after having a realization about the future.

“I turned 44 in November,” he said. “Looking at my next 40 years and what I wanted to do with it, I figured I had two options. One, I could plumb for another 20 years and get old. Or I could do something I really love to do.”

Growing up outside of Chicago in Gary, Ind., Dills was always drawn to art. He worked in graphic design, designing corporate logos for several years before moving to Sandpoint.

“Once I got up here, I said, ‘This is it,’” he said. Dills worked as a plumber for Noble Plumbing while raising his three children, always hoping for a chance to utilize his artistic abilities.

After looking at a few different storefronts, he landed on the gallery at 214 Cedar Street and fell in love with it.

“We’re in the beermuda triangle here,” he said, referring to the fact that he’s surrounded on all sides by pubs. To the west is

Infini Gallery and Studio owner Kris Dill offers painting classes and fun events

MickDuff’s Beer Hall, to the east is Eichardt’s. Across Cedar is Idaho Pour Authority. Dills never has to travel far for a frothy mug.

Dills aims to update the artwork in the gallery every month and feature new artists often.

Currently he features work from Sandra Deutchman and Holly Walker, as well as several pieces he did himself. He has also joined POAC, and hopes to tap into that resource for future works to hang.

Infini Art Gallery

Aside from painting sales, the regular “wine and canvas” events taught by Dills and fellow artist Holly Walker will generate the majority of income for Infini.

“We have watercolors, paper, adult coloring books, acrylic paints,” said Dills. “Another cool thing we offer is to provide people with cameras. They can leave an ID and take a camera, shoot some photos, then plug it into the Corel Painter program and turn the photos into a painting instantly. You can even just rent a computer and pay for the time you use it.”

To get a sense of how the painting classes might work, Dills invited my girlfriend Cadie and me to a class on a Thursday night. We would be joined by a spirited group of hairdressers from Syringa Salon.

After saying hello and popping the cork on a few wine bottles, Dills sat us in front of our blank canvases and began the instruction. We were to create a simple landscape with a sunset sky and either water or a mountain range in the foreground.

Whether you paint often or haven’t yielded a brush, Dills has a way of making you feel at home and comfortable. He gives just the right amount of instruction, and also steps back to let people go their own direction.

As the wine flowed, the night was punctuated by laughter. At one point, all the women decided to paint mustaches on their faces. I think the wine had something to do with it.

It was fun to walk around the studio looking at each participant’s painting. They all started with the same premise, but each output was so unique.

For the modest price Dills charges, the classes are the perfect answer for a fun date night, or a group of friends looking to do something different to do. Also, in the case of Syringa Salon, it was a great way for the hairdressers

to get together and do something outside of the “office.”

Leaving Infini Gallery, I realized how lucky we are to have people like Kris Dills in Sandpoint. Not only is he a great artist and a fun person to talk with, he has made art more accessible.

To inquire about painting classes or to check out the gallery, go down to Infini Gallery and studio on Cedar Street right next to MickDuff’s Beer Hall and talk to Kris yourself, or call 610-1232.

28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4

Poetry Open Mic 6pm @ Monarch Mtn. no censorship, no rules, no judgement and no damned golf claps! Free to all

Throwback Thursdays at the 219 7-11pm @ 219 Lounge

Featuring live music with Brian Jacobs and friends, $2 domestics and $3 crafts

Live Music w/ Ron Keiper Trio

8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub

Music Conservatory of Sandpoint’s Bel Canto Opera Trio

7:30pm @ Panida Theater

Karin Wedemeyer, Brenda Rutledge and John Fitzgerald fuse their impressive vocals. Tickets are $10 adults; POAC members $8; youth $5; available in advance at the POAC office

This trio brings some of the best of jazz, jazz saxophone and keyboard to Sandpoint

Live Music w/ Us Two

5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority

Live Music w/ Chris Lynch

5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority

The piano man back at it

Live Music w/ Justin Lantrip

5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery

Singer/songwriter from Sandpoint

with a great catalogue full of music

Live Music w/ Chris Lynch 6pm - 9pm @ Arlo’s Ristorante

Oscar nominated shorts

7:30pm @ Panida Theater

Featuring Live Action shorts

Sandpoint Chess Club 9am @ Evans Brothers Coffee

Toyota Free Ski Day

All day @ Schweitzer

Anniversary 7-10pm

Celebrate

A Waltz from prizes, Singles,

The driver of any Toyota driven to Schweitzer Moun tain Resort will receive a free lift ticket for the day

Live Music w/ the Wagoner Band

5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery

Father/daughter duo

Anniversary Dance

7-10pm @ Sandpoint Community Hall

Come celebrate USA Dance’s 15th Anniversary of dancing in Sandpoint. A Waltz lesson will be taught by a local professional instructor from 7-8 p.m., followed by general dancing, refreshments, door prizes, mixers, and a drawing for a month of free dance classes. Singles, couples, and all levels of dancers are welcome

Used Book Sale

10am - 2pm @ Bonner Mall

Sell your books for free, find great titles for cheap! 263-4272 for more info

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

BGH Diabetes Education and Support Meeting

10-11am @ Brown House (BGH)

Psychiatrist Dr. Terry Johnson will present, “Living with Chronic Disease.” 265-1116 for more info

Karaoke Night 10pm - Midnight @ 219 Lounge

Art on the go with Jules

4-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority

Join Julie Ellis for a few fun hours creating art from recycled materials

Bingo Night

Movie Night 6:30pm @ Admission comfortable.

and

Fatty 10am Sandpoint’s a.m. until are available conclude Bikes

Game Night at the Niner 9pm @ 219 Lounge

Stomp Games Banked Slalom @ Schweitzer Mountain Resort Schweitzer.com. 208-255-3081

Oscar nominated shorts

3:30, 5:30, 7:30pm @ Panida Live Action, Animated & Docu

Seniors Day – 9am - 12pm @ Bonner Mall

Walk the mall, listen to speakers, learn health tips, enter drawings, play bingo and enjoy free refreshments. 208-263-4272

First Tuesday at Eichardt’s 7pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Music night hosted by Jake Robin

6:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Bingo, beer, popcorn, friendly bartenders, a nice courtyard. Seriously, what else do you need?

Monarch Open Mic with Scott Reid

6-8pm @ Monarch Mtn. Coffee

Held on the first and third Thursday of every month. All are welcome to attend!

Chess Class

4pm @ Spt. Library

Beginner class for elementray school age kids, but all are welcome

Sip and Shop

4-7pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery

BGH Childbirth

Education Class

6-8pm @ BGH Health vices Building, Suite Free 3 part series Tue evenings on and 16. 265-7484

Everyone is invited to a fun evening of sipping, shopping and friendship. Proceeds from wine, food and merchandise are donated to the Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness

Throwback Thursdays at the 219 7-11pm @ 219 Lounge

Featuring live music with Brian Jacobs and friends, $2 domestics and $3 crafts. Join in playing in this informal open mic night setting every Thursday night

Dollar Beers! 8pm @ Eichardt’s

Friends of the 12-1pm @ Sandpoint

Get acquainted nology in Early tive & find out lives of of people

John Tickets $5;

ful

January 28 - February 4, 2015

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

Reader recommended

Anniversary Dance

7-10pm @ Sandpoint Community Hall

Celebrate USA Dance’s 15th Anniversary of dancing in Sandpoint. A Waltz lesson will be taught by a local professional instructor from 7-8 pm, followed by general dancing, refreshments, door prizes, mixers, and a drawing for a month of free dance classes. Singles, couples, and all levels of dancers are welcome. 699-0421

NASTAR Junior Race Series @ Schweitzer Mountain Resort

Schweitzer Mounfor the day

Movie Night on the Mat: The Last Samurai

6:30pm @ Takayama Dojo/New Earth Center, 521 Cedar St. Admission is by donation; bring anything that makes you comfortable. No food or drinks on the mats

Sing and Dance the Night Away

8pm @ Sandpoint Senior Center

Gayle Williams and Rich Speidell will be cranking out the tunes on the karaoke machine for everyone and the dance floor will be hopping! $10 donations will be appreciated at the door, it feeds two meals to a senior. 263-6860

Fatty Flurry Festival

10am @ Round Lake State Park

Dollar Beers!

8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub

Good until the keg’s dry!

Bridges Home ‘Burns Night’ Celebration

7pm @ Pearl Theater (Bonners)

The duo of Tami and Dave Gunter are joined by Paul Gunter for this show of Celtic and original music. Tickets are $12 advance, $15 day of the show. 610-2846

Live Music w/ Chris Lynch 6pm - 9pm @ Arlo’s Ristorante

Live Music w/ Ken Mayginnes 7pm @ La Rosa Club

DJ @ the Niner 9pm @ 219 Lounge

Featuring the music of DJ Josh Adams

Sandpoint’s own “Fat Bike” Festival with free Fat Bike Demos from 10 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., followed by Group Rides at 1 p.m. Fat bike rentals are available for the Group Rides; reservations required. The event will conclude with a campfire and refreshments. Sponsored by Greasy Fingers Bikes ‘n Repair

Niner

Banked Slalom Mountain Resort

208-255-3081

shorts

@ Panida Theater Animated & Docu shorts

Childbirth

Education Class

@ BGH Health SerBuilding, Suite 103 part series held on evenings on Feb 2, 9 265-7484

sipping, shopping and merchandise Peaks Wilderness

Dollar Beers!

@ Eichardt’s Pub

Stomp Games Banked Slalom @ Schweitzer Mountain Resort Competition at Schweitzer Mountain Resort includes both men’s and women’s skiers and boarders. Schweitzer. com. 208-255-3081

Trivia Night

7pm - 9pm @ MickDuff’s

Sip and Shop

4-7pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery

Proceeds from wine, food and merchandise are donated to the Rotary Club of Ponderay Centennial, and will be used to offer scholarships to students of Sandpoint

Singles Meet and Greet

5:30pm @ Talus Rock Retreat

Come together for a fun “meet and greet” gathering and perhaps find a new friend in the same boat. No agenda. No pressure. No expectations. No age limit. Free, call 255-8458

Friends of the Library: PTECH

12-1pm @ Sandpoint Library

acquainted with the Pathways in Tech-

Seed Saving Workshop 6pm @ Sandpoint Library

nology in Early College High School initia& find out how PTECH is changing the of of people in Bonner County

Learn how to save seen and exchange it in the Seed Library at the Sandpoint Library

Feb. 6

Free First Saturday @ the Museum

Feb. 6 & 7

Priest Lake Sled Dog Races

Feb. 9

Open Mic Night @ MickDuff’s

Feb. 10-21

Sandpoint Winter Carnival! See the ad in next week’s issue for a full listing of events!

Feb. 10

KPND Ski and Board Party @ Trin- ity at City Beach

Feb. 11

G. Love and Special Sauce @ The Hive

local!

To submit your own pet photos, please send a photograph and a little bit of information about your special friend to ben@sandpointreader.com. Please put “PET PHOTOS” in the subject line.

Bryce is a pet rescue cat that picked ME when I went to Panhandle Animal Shelter two years ago. He is affectionate, playful and so lovable.

Kathy Berkley Sandpoint

COACH: An interview with swim coach Mike Brosnahan

By Cort Gifford Reader Contributor

The late scientist Masaru Emoto (“The True Power of Water”) tells us that water has memory. I’m reminded of this as I leave the lobby and walk out onto the deck of Sandpoint West Athletic Club’s indoor, Olympic-sized pool. I’m flashing on the past. I have memories of my own here because 27 years ago I swam daily in its tropically warm water. Does it remember me?

In the late 1980s I was in the U.S. Masters program along with a handful of hard-core, age-group swimmers from SWAC. We traveled like gypsies all throughout the Inland Empire, chasing down various swim meets. Our new coach was this skinny kid with a fright-wig-head-of-hair by the name of Mike Brahs something-or-other. But today, on this morning (it’s a little after six) Mike’s 50 year-old, 3.0 version is putting the SHS swim team through its paces:15 minutes of stretching before hitting the water. Like a rag-tag ballet troupe, some sit on towels or on thin foam mats, changing positions as Mike calls out: “Down facing dog . . . don’t forget, circular breaths . . . relax.”

Mike employs an eclectic mix of East and West in his warm up routine.

“It’s kind of a mixture of dynamic stretching plus Aikido plus Yoga,” he explains. “We do all the Aikido joint locks. We also use Yoga positions. Then we do a series of stretches that activates the joints and sockets so the muscles around the joints fire properly.” By contrast, in 1959 my high school swim coach made us do push ups. Were it not for a simple twist of fate and the termination of a popular SWAC swim instructor, Mike Brosnahan might never have left Moscow, Idaho. A University of Idaho grad, Mike’s circuitous route from Moscow to Sandpoint mirrors the experience of others who have arrived here seemingly by accident. Mike could just as well ended up sailing somewhere off the Caribbean. Literally. An avid sailor, Mike still has the eight-foot Sabot-class sailboat his father gave him when he was eleven.

“My dad learned how to sail in Boston Harbor. Both he and my grandfather were in the US Navy.”

Mike’s dad was an aviator in WWII and is credited with shooting down a Japanese “Zero” over the Pacific. He would one day teach his son how to sail in the waters off Oak Harbor, Whidby Island, Wash.

“A few years back I was able to take a coaching sabbatical from Sandpoint West,” Mike recalls, “and for three months our family sailed the San Juans in the 36-foot Erickson.”

The family of four includes Mike’s wife of 20 years, two boys, and Briana who not surprisingly is on her dad’s swim team.

“Briana was swimming twice a week,” Mike recalls. “One day she announced ‘I want to go faster.’”

She then started swimming daily and now Briana is close to times which would qualify her for state.

As the man who almost single-handedly brought swimming to Sandpoint, Mike’s aquatic career got off to a shaky start. As a non-swimmer at the age of 11, Mike nearly drowned in his uncle’s pool.

“I was floating on an inner tube, just paddling around, when my cousin Darcy came up from behind and dumped me,” he said. “To this day I can remember sinking, the clear blue water over my head and me going under. Then this arm reached down and pulls me up.” “What are you doing?” asked the cousin. “I can’t swim.” “Why are you in the deep end?” “I was on an inner tube,” Mike replied.

The Paper Plate

Award

Sometimes it’s hard not to separate the man from the team. Consider the fact that in 28 years not only has Mike taught thousands how to swim, but 90 per cent of the SHS swim team he taught from scratch as children.

“Most teachers have their students for just one year,” Mike says. “I get to watch them grow up. The award is mostly for graduating seniors, some of whom have been with me for almost their entire lives. I sit down with my felt-tipped markers and start drawing on a paper plate. It might be an historical cartoon of their life,

or a depiction of a certain event. It could be a secret just between the two of us, or maybe a trait specific to their character. There’s always something unique about every one of these kids.”

Occasionally Mike encounters a youth who might have troubles at home or who is acting out.

“Over time, their behavior eventually improves, and it’s gratifying,” he said. “You like to think you’ve helped make a difference in their lives.”

Bugs

Often seen driving around town, the “Green Bug” is Mike’s classic 1967 VW “Westphalia” van.

“They’re really easy to work on, they’re fun. I like ‘em,” Mike said. “I’ve used mine for 20 years; it’s my go-to swim-meet camper. Winter, summer, it doesn’t matter. I also have a ‘67 Beetle and another 1978 Westphalia which I gave to Briana.”

In the early years, before SHS adopted a swim team, Mike used the van to ferry his swimmers back and forth to USA Swimming competition, travelling as far as the Tri Cities; a practice considered insane by today’s litigious and hyper-protective environment. It’s a measure of the man that without reservation, parents trusted Mike with their children on these trips.

What’s in a name?

Unaware of the label of racism attached to North Idaho in the 1970s when ideologues such as Richard Butler held sway over a coterie of zealots, Mike looked for a name for the newly-formed USA Swimming team.

“I thought it would be fun to name them ‘The Great White Sharks.’”

Thinking back, he laughs about it now. “We even had white-hooded sweat shirts. It wasn’t long before one of the locals came up to me and asked, ‘Is there any special reason why you’re using that name?’ I guess it wasn’t as funny as I thought. We quickly re-named the team, simply, ‘The Sharks.’”

Genesis

Exactly one year to the day of the near-drowning, Mike was back at his uncle’s pool when one of the guests asked him if he would like to learn how to swim.

“She spent the whole day with me and when we were finished I could swim across the pool on my back and my stomach,” he said. “And the whole thing started. I never looked back.”

Next came formal instruction when his dad set him up with 4-H lessons in the Navy combat pool. Mike learned quickly, and at the age of 14 was not only helping the swim instructor, he also received his certification as a life guard.

At the University of Idaho, Mike was the head lifeguard, studied computers, was active in ROTC and looked forward to a degree in Computer Science when fate and his love for the water intervened.

“I needed an elective,” he said, “I signed up for a class called ‘Recreation for Special Populations.’ The practicum [lab work] had me stationed in an old folks home, and I had to come up with creative, non-demeaning, fun exercise programs. Pool work was an ideal fit.”

As a result, Mike abandoned

Computer Science and changed his major to Recreation.

After graduating, it wasn’t long before Mike found his way to Sandpoint where his first job was with Holiday Shores as Director of Recreation. Not satisfied with the pay, word of mouth had it that there was an opening at SWAC: a swim instructor had been let go. The rest, as they say, is history. I spent a few weeks, off and on, going to practices, both with the SHS team, and the pre-competition training for the little kids. What I witnessed was a coach who transcended my past experience with football and swimming: the rigid, authoritarian figure. It was replaced by observing a coach who at times seemed almost kid-like himself. But what was both scary and inspiring at the same time was the talent. I saw an 8-year-old girl moving quickly and efficiently through the water while executing a perfect butterfly stroke. And another: A 15 year-old girl who would have smoked my entire 1959 squad, and rewrite every school record on the books. Forgive the pun, but the times they are a-changing.

Changing Your Mind The ADHD mystery

By Suzen Fiskin Reader Columnist

What do Da Vinci, Whoopi, Einstein, Disney, Cher, and Stephen Hawking have in common? Give up? All are/were ADHD. They think differently, and that’s a good thing!

If you look at the numbers, ADHD has become an epidemic in this country. According to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, a whopping 6.4 million American kids ages 4-17 get a diagnosis of ADHD. This is an astounding 41% increase from just a decade ago. Whoa!

Even more alarming is that twothirds of these young ‘uns are “treated” with the methamphetamine based drugs Ritalin and Adderall. Millions of our children are being addicted to legal meth, as in the prescription version of the “Breaking Bad” street drug. What’s wrong with this picture?

Did you know that there’s no test for ADHD? A diagnosis is made from a subjective evaluation based solely on behavior. Just one opinion can change the course of a child’s life forever. We are drugging out some of our best and brightest young minds to keep calmer classrooms, and marginalizing adults with that same brain wiring.

Houston, we have a problem!

Whenever I run into anything in the public realm with crazy numbers like this, I follow the money. Big Pharma has turned ADHD into a multi-billion-dollar industry from the mere multi-million dollar enterprise it was a decade ago. Bingo!

Surely there’s a better way to dance with people whose minds work differently - a way that honors a diversity of brain wiring. A way that encourages the most innovative people of our nation to add their inventive talents to the greater good.

When I discovered that I have an

ADHD brain, I did a ton of research. I learned how to manage my mind through exercise, meditation and journaling. I still have my challenges staying on track, but I wouldn’t trade my entertaining brain for a more docile one . . . ever!

Attention Deficit is really a misnomer. We don’t have a problem focusing unless it’s something that bores us. Then, forget about it! When we’re excited, we have the ability to hyperfocus for way longer than most folks. Most people don’t know this.

Thom Hartmann, the author of many uplifiting books on ADHD, gave me an “Aha” moment that let me realize that I wasn’t broken. His revolutionary idea that ADHD is genetic has been recently validated by Robert Klitzman, M.D, the head of the Human Genome Project.

For the last 10,000 years, he says, we’ve lived in two kinds of worlds –hunting/gathering worlds, and agricultural worlds. He believes that ADHD isn’t a disorder at all, but rather an adaptive behavior that is perfect in a hunter/gatherer society. The three traits of ADHD that are mirrored in the hunter are: distractibility, impulsivity, and the need for sensory arousal.

If you think about people who’ve changed the world, you’ll notice that most of them are wired this way. These folks are the movers and shakers who move us forward in inventive ways.

Farmers, on the other hand, are much more patient; tend to enjoy rules, routine and structure; believe that slow and steady wins the race; and don’t get bored easily. Our schools and traditional workplaces are built for the farming mindset. They maintain the status quo.

One secret to having a more peaceful and dynamic society is to respect the

gifts of all of our peeps. We want agents of change and maintainers of the status quo working together.

If you or someone you love has a hunter mind, there’s a lot that can be done to be a happier human. Working out regularly, finding projects that blow your dress up and exploring a meditation or martial arts practice will help you control your mind. A loving, supportive partner can make all the difference in the world.

There are lots of careers that are perfect for hunters. Over 85 percent of entrepreneurs are hunters, as are most sales people, construction workers and police officers. Consider becoming an emergency medical tech, firefighter or nurse. Be an artist, musician or speaker. Do not be a CPA, or get an office job sitting at a desk!

For your kids, there’s a lot you can do. Use creativity to make learning exciting for them, play brain games, make sure that they exercise enough to get their yayas out, and encourage them to pursue whatever hobbies that make them happy. If you can, ferret out teachers who understand how your kids’ brains work, who will do what it takes to keep them hooked into their studies. Please be cautious when considering drug therapy. Some need it, but many do not.

Have a great week.

With over two decades of experience, Suzen Fiskin is a certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Master of Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Success Coach, and speaker. She has a blossoming personal development practice in Sandpoint. She is also a professional photographer, graphic artist and the author of “Playboy Mansion Memoirs.” suzenfiskin@ gmail.com (208)572-0009

The best partnerships are hunters and farmers when each respects the beauty of our differences and creates synergy as a team.

We can make this a better world by working together!

The ride of your life

“Life can be unpredictable, bumpy and harsh. Same goes for snowboarding.”

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

For Nick Appl, snowboarding is more than just sliding down a hill and yelling “yippee.”

In Appl’s new book “Snowboard Wisdom: 100 Reflections on Life and Riding,” he uses the sport of snowboarding to pose several reflections on life in general.

Billed as “the culmination of … 20 years riding a snowboard and 10 years of daydreaming about snowboarding in relation to human psychology,” Appl’s book is one of those books that you can read all at once, or a little each day.

Each reflection is a short postulate about life that also relates to snowboarding. Or is it a premise about snowboarding that also relates to life? You be the judge.

Reflection #63 reads: “Keep Moving. Ever notice how difficult it can be to stand still with both feet strapped into your board? Life resembles this characteristic of boards in the sense that idleness leaves us vulnerable to falling. Snowboards are designed and built for mobility. People seem similarly intended for creative and productive action. Keep moving, exploring, and enjoying so you don’t tip over.”

Appl considers this book an outlet for his dual lives as a snowboarder and mental health specialist.

“I was just randomly writing stuff down whenever I had a thought,” he said. “Some of them came from work experiences where I’d lead a group session with a topic. A lot of them just came while I was riding and thinking about stuff.”

Appl first starting having the inspiration for this book while he was studying psychology in his late 20s and on the cusp of becoming a new father.

While Appl sat through countless lectures on psychological theories of human behavior, he began to relate the cumbersome topics to situations he’d had while snowboarding.

“It didn’t necessarily change any of the concepts,” he wrote in the introduction, “But it did make them more interesting and I was more engaged. The seed was planted.”

Ten years later, after the usual phalanx of rejection letters from publishers, Appl reached his “point of burn-out on the front lines of the mental health battlefield.”

He contacted local company Keokee to design and layout the book, and was recommended to illustrator Dan Seward, who provided artwork for the cover and inside pages.

“Dan was great because I just gave him the topics and seven or eight ideas and he

ran with it,” said Appl. “He’s a snowboarder, so it didn’t take much explaining for him to get it.”

During the 10-year process it took to compile the book, Appl often found himself with writer’s block.

“I would get stuck,” he said. “I’d have an idea and didn’t know what else to say about it. Eventually, I pictured explaining it to my two daughters, to keep it short and simple.”

Upon publication, Appl hopes people can glean a bit of direction from the simple postulates he puts forth.

“One thing in particular,” he said, “everywhere I’ve gone, including living here and in Alaska, Colorado, Lake Tahoe, there’s a culture, even though each place is different. Each mountain has its own little tribe. But it doesn’t matter where you go, if they’re up there riding, they’re pretty happy and stoked on life.”

In the future, Appl hopes to continue writing sports-related reflections into book form.

“I’ve contacted some programs that

work with underprivileged inner city kids, and I think it would be great to do another one on skateboarding or maybe surfing,” he said.

You can snag your own copy of Appl’s book at Vanderford’s Books, 7B Boardshop, at the Source on Schweitzer, or online at Keokee.com. Or check out the new website www.snowboardwisdom. com, which is due to go live any day now.

Feb. 11 & 13 @ 7:30pm, Feb. 14 @ 3:30pm Feb. 18 & 20 @ 7:30pm, Feb. 22 @ 3:30pm

Coming soon: lady in the van, the revenant

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

By Drake the Dog Reader Pet Columnist

Where am I taking my humans today?

As a blanket of snow builds on itself, and friends enjoy each other’s company clinking glasses during short days and long cozy nights, the Mister is on a mission. His New Year’s resolution is to plan ahead for those special moments in his life. Pretty good for a guy, huh? Actually, having me around is really helping him out on this one, because if I run out of food, it’s not a special occasion. So we’re walking, exercising and shopping for a birthday gift for the Missus. Onward to Petal Talk, located at 120 Cedar St., where the petals do talk to the designers.

Sixteen dog-friendly years ago, owner Nicole French bought the flower shop, which specializes in original artistic arrangements, novelties and imaginative gifts.

Her love and passion for flowers drew her to the business. She had always dreamed of having a storefront on Main Street in a little town. The shop got its name from the old classic movie “Pillow Talk.” Her mission is: “The true art is the flower itself. We have the skill to put it together, and nature provides us with beauty. Nature offers endless possibilities, and so does our team.”

The Mister and I are greeted by Graphite, a 3-year-old pound mix that Nicole adopted from the shelter. He is the official shop dog, and his duties include acting as the delivery wingman and greeting customers.

Graphite gets his kicks by keeping the gals happy and chewing on stems that have dropped on the floor. Unless it’s wedding season, Graphite is in the shop on Saturdays. He likes to sit by the front door

and watch for customers and Dave the mailman. It’s amazing how many customers have at least one dog. Graphite finds a way to get onto every couch; he loves doggie sleep-overs and sticks. This handsome dude aspires to be the cover dog on Doggie GQ.

Ten years ago, Kim Helms, Petal Talk’s design manager, and her husband were on their way to buy a boat. Instead they took a sharp right turn, found a breeder and brought home a German short hair named Penny instead.

When experiencing Petal Talk’s barkin’ customer service, I’ve learned that flowers and dogs play a big part in our lives. Petal Talk specializes in holiday, birthday, wedding, sympathy and everyday arrangements. Every design is different and depends on the needs of the customer and the doggie guests—I kid you not!

How fun it must be to matching linens and napkins to flowers. And dressing doggie ring bearers’ collars with blooms for their walk down the aisle. Hey folks, I’m available!

Nicole and Kim have to be dog-friendly everyday. Nine out of the 10 houses they deliver flowers to have dogs.

“We have to know how to read a dog on property, whether it is rural or in the city,” said Nicole. “On occasion, we have to call the owner when we pull into the driveway, so they can instruct their dog to let us out of the van. ‘Guarding the house’ is a popular canine occupation in our neck of the woods!”

Then a tear came to Nicole’s eye:

“Flowers play a big

part in our lives, especially when four-footed furry children have gone to the rainbow bridge,” she said. “Folks send flowers to the family, and are always for a loss of words. Petal Talk has created a resource to assist customers with things to say, as they listen to the choir of the petals.”

Petal Talk rules:

1. Perk up your ears and listen to the choir of the petals.

2. Make your life easier---

dates for the year and they will take care of the rest. Now that’s tail-waggin’ news!

3. Rose petal stems have thorns, so be careful with those sticks!

4. Empty, clean flowerpots make great water bowls.

5. Avoid the rush. Order your Valentine’s flowers now!

6. Enjoy the experience of Petal Talk. Come in and smell the roses.

Haunted Sandpoint:

La Rosa Club joins the list of so called “haunted” establishments in Sandpoint

By Jessica Bowman Reader Contributor

How many ghosts can one town have? If strange things occur when no one else is there, does that mean you’re possibly insane or that you aren’t really alone? If a group of people experience the same supernatural occurrence, does that validate it? Why do some spirits move on and others stay?

I will be answering none of these questions for you, dear reader. I am only here to share stories and perhaps to create a believer or two.

This is the story of a local hangout. They serve delicious tapas and the most amazing basil lemon drop martinis in town. I’m writing, of course, about La Rosa and the spirit who lives there.

The staff at La Rosa call him Paul. He’s the customer who never leaves. When there are no other customers around, and the restaurant is silent, Paul’s presence becomes palpable.

The building itself, the Fidelity Trust Building, was the first permanent building in that part of Sandpoint. It was built in 1909. Originally a real estate and newspaper office, it has also been a hippie clothing store, a plant store, a second hand store, upstairs apartments, a hotel, and most recently, La Rosa Club.

While Paul can sometimes be seen walking past the kitchen window while La Rosa is open he generally saves his antics for the staff.

One night, after hours, Nolan the manager, and Tim the bartender, were closing up. Most of the lights had been turned off, including the ceiling fans. Suddenly, the fans started spinning. They stopped. Then started spinning the opposite way.

Paul also likes to invite other spirits to his soirees. One day, before the club was open, chef Dylan was oiling the chest in the dining room. He began to hear a “full on” party in the

bar. He walked into the other room to investigate the footsteps and laughter, but found he was still alone.

Another time, Dylan was in the basement (which is definitely one of the creepiest basements in existence) and heard footsteps above him. He was the only person in the building.

Dylan gave me a tour of said basement and I would not be surprised if there were several ghosts living there.

Perhaps Paul goes there for the same reasons I do. (They really do make the best martinis).

Of course, Paul may have other business that was left unfinished and he can’t seem to let the building go. Maybe he’s only there because he wanted to have a story in the Reader

If you’re curious enough, go check out La Rosa Club for yourself. Order some tapas and a drink. And don’t forget to tip your bartender, or they might sic Paul on you.

Crossword Solution

Random Corner

Ever feel like you’re being watched?

There’s an old urban legend about a guy who lives alone and has always felt like he was being watched in his own home. He later finds out a stranger has been living in his attic.

While the majority of urban legends are outright false, this one actually happened.

In 2008, Tokyo police arrested a homeless woman who sneaked into a man’s house and lived undetected in his closet for a year.

The resident of the home had installed security cameras that transmitted images to his mobile phone after becoming puzzled by food disappearing from his kitchen over several months.

The camera caught movement inside the home and the resident called the police, who found the woman’s hiding place, which had been outfitted with a mattress. The woman had even used the man’s shower regularly without being detected. The police called her “neat and clean.” [BO]

This week’s RLW by Ben Olson

In Edan Lepucki’s dystopian post-apocalyptic novel “California,” you can expect a different take on the end-of-the-world genre, mainly because it was written by a woman.

In “California,” Frida and Cal flee Los Angeles to live in the wilds of northern California, making it on their own for some time before joining a society, where Frida’s pregnancy might mean the expulsion from the group.

Overall, it’s a great effort for a first novel and refreshing to read plot points that aren’t completely tired and used.

Andrew Bird’s “Break It Yourself” album stands as one of my favorite’s of his.

If you don’t know Bird, give him a shot. He is a classicly trained violinist who decided to take his music the indie route and has done amazing things.

Whether it’s his plucking, his hauntingly beautiful violin melodies or his crazy good whistling, Bird is a musician to be reckoned with. Not to mention his songs, which highlight catchy, even keeled melodies and a vocabulary that would make an English major proud.

READ LISTEN WATCH

I recently spent some time watching an old John Wayne movie called “Sagebrush Trail” that reminded me how much I love the early days of the film industry.

The film and audio qualities are so poor, it almost feels like you could have more fun hitting mute and dubbing your own lines, ala “Mystery Science Theater 3000.”

But mostly, it reminds me how far we’ve come in the film industry.

Next time you’re wondering what to watch, give an old film a try.

Here are a few I’d recommend:

•“The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari.”

•“The Great Train Robbery.”

•“Birth of a Nation” (not for its political content, but for its revolutions to the industry)

•“20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.”

Then & Now

compiled by Ben Olson

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

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

First Avenue taken from the intersection with Bridge Street. From left to right: North Idaho News, Himes Studio (later Ross Hall), White Lunch, and Jack’s Chili Parlor (formerly the White Swan Saloon).

The same view today. The block now is home to such businesses as the Lake Pend Oreille Waterkeepers, and Flatpick & Earl.

CROSSWORD

Skiing. a sunken area in the snow marking a backward fall of a skier.

“I sure left my sitzmark on Schweitzer today.”

Doing nothing

Participate in games

More or less

Anthracite

Expect and wish

Acts as an agent

Former Italian currency

Record player

Consumed food

God of love

Hindu loincloth

GMan

365 days

Anus

Render unnecessary

Otalgia

Array

Corrections: We bungled the date on last week’s calendar listing of the Paris to Pend Oreille conference at Columbia Bank. Our apologies for this. [BO] 1. Cheap shots

Twist or pull violently

Kaffir corn

Accept as true

Emissary

C C C C

Donkeys

Backward-looking

Ancient Peruvian

Martini ingredient

State of mind

Bucks and does

An old spelling of “True”

Factions

Frozen water

Give

Framework of strips

If not

Showing little emotion

forward suddenly

France’s longest river

Solution on page 17 12. A cook might wear one

It makes dough rise

Comes after Mi and Fah 24. Mineral rock

Hearing-related

Ouches 27. River of Spain

Affirm

Instigator

Docile

Throbs

Goon 36. Algonquian Indian

Apiary

When

38. X X X X

Sailor 43. Wager 45. Incumbency

Intended 48. A loud sleeping sound 49. British biscuit

16 1/2 feet 52. Ellipses 54. Essence 56. Decorative case 57. Peel 58. Venician magstrate

1 1 1 1 62. Not used