Do you have a favorite in the race for Sandpoint mayor?
“I have no idea.”
Donna Kobelt Courtesy Clerk Sandpoint
“I haven’t been paying attention.”
Dylan Decrow Logger Sandpoint
“I know who the candidates are but I am not political because I am Jehovah’s Witness.”
Janet Russell Disabled Sandpoint
“I haven’t read too much about them in the newspaper. I expect to be reading more about them.”
Kay Berry Retired Nurse Sandpoint
“I haven’t given it much thought except I heard on channel 6 about the robo call.”
Virgil Croy Maintenance Sandpoint
“Considering this series of responses from the community, we are happy to point out that our two mayoral candidates, Shelby Rognstad and Mose Dunkel, have addressed citizen apathy in our feature this week on pages 14-15. We are hoping you, the reader, will read their responses, get to know their stances on issues that affect us all in this town, and are able to make an informed decision by voting time in November.”
Sandpoint Reader Newspaper
Sandpoint
DEAR READERS,
Cameron and I are heading down to Boise this week to attend the Idaho Press Club conference and schmooze with fellow journalists of Idaho (i.e. we get to drink beer with like-minded degenerates). We will be giving a short presentation at the conference talking about our role in community journalism. We’ll also be staying with former Sandpoint Reader owner Zach Hagadone at his swanky new digs in Boise. Zach, if you’re reading this, make sure the whiskey is stocked in the cabinet.
I’d also like to announce the Reader will be holding a fundraising concert at the Panida Theater in November. We’d like to showcase some local talent and also generate a little extra revenue to purchase some new newspaper boxes and some other items that we’ve been putting off for awhile. The concert will feature Charley Packard, Josh Hedlund, Harold’s IGA and Mama Doll all playing on the main stage at the Panida. Should be a great evening and all the proceeds go toward the musicians and the Reader. We appreciate your help in keeping us going strong into the winter!
-Ben Olson, Publisher
READER
111 Cedar Street, Suite 9 Sandpoint, ID 83864 (208)265-9724
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:
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–No more than one letter per month. 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
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About the Cover
This week’s cover was illustrated by caricature artist Daniel Cape. You’ve seen Cape’s work in the Reader before, and you may have caught him at Silverwood this season, where he was their resident caricature artist. To see more of Cape’s work, go to: http://hiredanielcape.blogspot.com.
COMMENTARY
By Louie de Palma Reader Road Warrior
What do these three things have in common? The letter P. Also, they are things that I think about all too frequently. While driving the taxi, my mind often wanders. It wanders down sticky paths of conspiracy, salty trails of goal mindedness and cold halls of the mundane. But more and more, I draw parallels between our town and the fictitious concept of purgatory. Or is it fictitious? Perhaps our town is purgatory?
I have noticed for myself and many others, it has proven immensely difficult to leave Sandpoint for one reason or another. Sure, some leave, but they always come back. Sandpointites may talk about trying to leave, but they never quite can. I’ve heard tell of tourists just meaning to pass through, but then somehow, even they become stuck to live out their days in 7B purgatory. People will want you to think the real reason for our trapped inhabitants’ inability to leave is simply because Sandpoint
Spt is better than this...
Dear Editor,
Like many others in our community, I was disgusted and disappointed that someone stooped low enough to send out “robo-calls” using racist and homophobic comments to slander one of our candidates for mayor of Sandpoint.
I was also faced with the question of how to respond. I recalled how, in Coeur d’Alene, when white supremacists were picketing several taco stands there, people who were outraged gathered their friends and made a point of going frequently and buying lots of tacos. The picketers soon stopped.
So, I’m suggesting that those of us who are moved to counter this hateful and immature behavior that is degrading to Sandpoint, contribute to Shelby Rognstad’s campaign. Our contributions could buy some more signs to replace the
Purgatory, parking and Dr. Phil
is a perfect location, equally bountiful in scenery and activity. This is incorrect.
We are all cast here to live out the sins of our past lives before we can move on to other living arrangements. If we are successful, we may be granted an opportunity to live in a more prosperous heavenly community: Seattle for some and Boulder, Aspen or California for others. If we are unsuccessful, than Athol it is.
Each person that lives here is forced to deal with an irritation that becomes their biggest pet peeve in life and reflects their previous life’s sins in some manner. How they handle it dictates their purgatory success or failure
My particular purgatory punishment consists Dr. Philing around Sandpoint, forced to lend an ear to its troubled souls. Forced to be agreeable to the whining of local inhabitants day in and night out. Forever listening with a grin to a verbal onslaught of complaints. It is through my own condemnation I learned the popular pet peeve sentence: parking.
From what I’ve deduced, there are three major types of parking pet peeve sentences. Each consumes the victim with annoyance, and each reflects their previous sins. It should be noted that all of the
Hiring process...
Dear Editor,
Many years ago, I was working as an engineering manager and decided to seek a new job opportunity. I knew that I would have to manage this process carefully as I suspected that had my boss found out what I was up to that I would have been fired on the spot. And sure enough, when I handed in my resignation I became an immediate outcast to my boss. Some people are just like that.
An open hiring process would subject every candidate for city administrator to a sim-
parking issues take place on public streets where it is perfectly legal to park for anyone. These people get worked up for no real reason because they must have something to consume them and focus there hate on or the structure of the purgatory system wouldn’t work.
Pet peeve sentence one: vacation home owners. These people feel the need to patrol the streets in front of their rental homes, making sure no other inhabitants park on the public street regardless if you live near there or not. This is also true whether or not a vacationer is present.
Behaviors: classic passive-aggressive hand written notes in outdated cursive.
How the peeve fits the sin: They used to trash rentals and refuse to write in cursive. Now they must obsess over keeping properties perfect to fill them, thereby paying off collections debt from ruining previous rentals. Their hands cramp from punching holes in walls but still have to write passive-aggressive, non-enforceable notes in cursive, causing yet more hand cramps.
How to egg them on: Create a giant replica sticky note that reads, “My passive-aggressive neighbor writes passive-aggressive notes” and put it on your porch.
Pet peeve sentence two: bored
ilar challenge. The City Council made the correct decision to appoint an experienced hiring committee and to keep the process confidential out of respect for these individuals. I think most people would want the same treatment.
Remember that we elected these officials and when reviewing their bios it is easy to see that we have a group of experienced, dedicated, and hardworking people guiding Sandpoint. Apparently, these are not highly coveted jobs considering that out of 4 open positions only one person stepped forward to run. It’s easy to criticize these people but perhaps not as easy to do their jobs.
Let’s instead rally around these dedicated public servants and support them in what must
elderly. This group has nothing to do all day but harass people who park on public streets. They are certain of their property boundaries and they want no cars parked anywhere near them. They also need the space so they can park multiple vehicles filled with prune juice all around them.
Behaviors: They hate kids playing the streets—particularly basketball hoops—even if they are placed in streets by curbs all over America. They will pretend to want the curb space for people that live in the area, but they leave typed, all-caps anonymous notes on their neighbors’ cars, too.
How the peeve fits the sin: In previous lives, they were way too self-absorbed, never noticing anyone and too involved in night life. Now they are forced to observe everything and have nothing to do.
How to egg them on: Leave extra ink cartridges with hallmark cards attached to them on their porch. Explain they are a gift because they must be getting low on ink from all the useless note typing.
Pet peeve sentence three: previous out-of-towners without cars. Most of this group live in town now because they lost their cars for DUIs. Alternatively, they never had any cars. Either way, they are used to having a good view, and
be terribly difficult decisions. I support our City Council and I support their decision to keep the hiring process closed. I would also like to thank each and every one of them for stepping up and serving our community.
Linda Larson Sandpoint
Turn Halloween candy into cash for critters...
Dear Editor,
The kids have enjoyed going door-to-door in costume trick-ortreating. The homeowners (the ones with their lights on) have enjoyed seeing the kids all dressed up and having fun (and perhaps remembering the joy of Halloween when they were kids).
Now the kids have an entire
damned if it gets blocked by a car parking in front of their window.
Behaviors: They get upset because they don’t have a car and seeing cars makes them mad, often reminding them of when they could drive. They usually yell at parkers or take up spaces with trash cans or sticks.
How the peeve fits the sin: A past of drinking and driving robs the individual of a car while forcing him or her to look at cars. To make matters worse, they’re forced to look at cars instead of a nice view.
How to egg them on: Build fake cars of cardboard and park them on the street in front of their house. It will irritate them because it looks like a car but it can’t drive, paralleling the fact they look like they could drive but can’t.
It’s nice to live in a place where the biggest complaints seem to be parking issues. So let’s help each other out as we all serve our sentence happily here. Let’s be tolerant of the trivial things. There are more important issues out there. Then again, it is Halloween season. If your neighbor looks bored, maybe park in front of their house. It’s going to be a long winter. Give ‘em something to stew about and egg ‘em on.
pillowcase filled with candy that they want to eat as quickly as possible. There will be a sugar high that will last for days. Here is an alternative idea. Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, neighbors, friends etc. can BUY BACK the candy. As a team effort everyone involved can decide what candy the child will sell. The child can then donate the money collected to his favorite cause or charity.
Last year at my preschool/ kindergarten we collected nearly $300 that we gave to the Panhandle Animal Shelter. The kids delivered the funds themselves and got a tour of the facility as well. It was a win/win situation. It is my hope that this idea will spread.
Cythia Mason Sandpoint
ones that have been stolen.
Brenda Hammond Sandpoint
PERSPECTIVES
The Razor’s Edge: A Response To Two Mayoral Candidates
By Stephen Drinkard Reader Contributor
When a city is to hire a city administrator one can insist the candidate has significant experience, understands how to manage people and has demonstrated creative thinking in his or her past work.
When a city is about to elect a new mayor, one can only hope the new mayor is, above all, a nice person, who lives the golden rule; that the mayor is presentable, reasonably smart and curious. Except in the extreme cases, it doesn’t matter for a town like Sandpoint whether the mayor is liberal or conservative. If truth be told, the department heads and their staff generally run the show anyway, following spoken and most often unspoken directions from the mayor and council.
Both Shelby Rognstad and Mose Dunkel are nice men; they present well and both are intelligent. Based on those criteria both are good candidates. I have no doubt.
What separates a good candidate from a very good candidate is the amount of experience and knowledge someone has about city government. The only way for someone to get that knowledge is to be a councilperson first or spend a lot of time in city committees and attending council meetings. It takes a long time to learn how be a good mayor. One former mayor told me it took this person three years to become “a good mayor.”
Clearly, from my read of the two candidates’ responses, Mr. Rognstad, with one exception, has a broader understanding of most the issues posed than does Mr. Dunkel.
For instance, Dunkel’s only response to the new configuration of the streets downtown is his concern about diagonal parking
Expletive deleted...
Dear Editor,
My letter in the Oct. 8 Reader had an [expletive deleted]. For some reason two words right before the expletive (the little) were included in the [expletive deleted]. I can maybe see an argument for little (I really can’t), but THE!?
What was the [expletive deleted] that bothered the Reader… the “f bomb” with an “er” at the end. I suggested some asterisks between the “f” and the “er” but that was shot down as apparently the Reader doesn’t want its readers using their imaginations.
And then what do I see on the next page? Scarlette Quille using the “f bomb.” I’m confused Reader, why was it OK for you to print Scarlette Quille’s “f bomb” but not mine? Why the double standard?
specifications. Rognstad understands the implications of the street changes and cites at least six key issues of importance. Likewise, when he talks about economic development in question seven, he understands that job creation is a multi-faceted task and he knowledgably lists a number of those facets. Dunkel only focuses on the safe memes that jobs should be for local people and that they should have training.
It is Mr. Dunkel’s response to the question about public apathy that sets him apart positively. To diminish that apathy, it takes more than increased Facebook entries or press releases, as Rognstad says. As Dunkel implies, it demands a change in city culture; how the staff and council and mayor treat each other; and how the staff, mayor and council engage with the public, both in frequency and quality. It can also involve creating a better physical environment—the current city hall feels, as some people think, cold, confusing and spatially bureaucratic. Other city halls are inviting and open.
None of the questions posed to these candidates can be answered adequately in the space allowed, to be fair to both candidates. If you take their issue statements to the next level—and you have to if you are serious about this—and ask how and in what specific ways, for example, are you going support NIC’s developing into “a residential campus,” then the “how” question is a razor’s edge that separates the “good” and the “very good” from the “excellent.”
Lee Santa Sandpoint
Oh Lee, I do so enjoy your neverending siege on small, meaningless details (Yes, that’s sarcasm, in case you can’t figure it out). If you read our masthead, we will not print letters that include any obscenities or libelous material. We don’t make that claim for our columnists and feature writers. We also explained this to you in detail when you came into our office last week. That should explain the “double standard” you refer to. We do, however, have a policy of publishing every reader’s letter to the editor, no matter how annoying and trolling they might be. You have obviously been aware of this policy, with your constant attack on anyone and everything
We asked contributors Stephen Drinkard and Dan McDonald to give their analyses of the Sandpoint mayoral candidates’ answers to our questionnaire. Read their stories on pages 14-15. Want to respond on your own? Write to letters@sandpointreader.com
Business as Usual: The Establishment
By Dan McDonald Reader Contributor
When asked to do this assignment, I thought that since both Mose Dunkel and Shelby Rognstad come from different backgrounds, their responses to the Reader’s questions would reflect those differences. Amazingly, the overall positions were, for the most part, similar in nature.
Where these two differ on these questions comes down to more of an establishment vs. challenger position. Rognstad has served what is clearly a city government that has some issues with transparency and the will of the people. Dunkel is well known but has not served in an elected position in the city of Sandpoint.
Rognstad is running on his experience, pointing directly to policies like zoning and the 2009 comprehensive plan, but the twin 800-pound gorillas in the room are the perceived lack of transparency and the extremely unpopular city administrator position. Dunkel points out the undeniable push-back heard at our local restaurants, coffee houses and in the streets: “Do we really need this $100,000-a-year administrator position?”
From that comes the disdain felt by those who see their personal cost of living going up while their income remains stagnant— that is, of course, if they have a job or three. Of course the second gorilla, the lack of a transparent and responsive city government, only underscores the problem with the current make-up of City Hall.
Jobs and the local economy are discussed, but the fact is Sandpoint’s current unemployment rate is about 6.3-7.1 percent depending on the reporting source. That’s higher than the reported 5.1 percent nationally. More
that either doesn’t meet your approval or doesn’t listen to jazz. My suggestion? Instead of nitpicking every pedantic little detail about everything, why not increase your understanding of logic and critical thinking and put together a well thought out piece of journalism?
Long story short; if you want to swear in the Reader, become a better writer and send us something worth publishing. Until then, stick to libel-free PG letters to the editor. Capisce?
[Ben Olson].
Dear Editor,
Sandy Compton was, of course, correct in pointing out that the goat problem at Scotchman Peak was, in fact, a human problem.
I think that the hikers that
vs. Challenger
startling, it’s dramatically higher than Idaho statewide at 4.2 percent. Of course, these numbers don’t reflect those in Sandpoint that have just given up looking for work.
The questions regarding their position on legalization of cannabis and, of course, the oil and coal train concerns were interesting. These are two issues the Sandpoint City Mayor has almost no authority to do much of anything about. While it’s interesting to see that both candidates are on the same side on cannabis, question four regarding the real concerns surrounding coal and oil trains was revealing. While we should be concerned about all public safety issues, the old adage that the only thing more powerful than the federal government is the railroad holds true.
Most folks who grew up here knew there are a great number of trains that come through every day. The trains represent jobs in segments of our country’s economy. Dunkel nails it with his response that there is some concern but certainly not a lot. Rognstad comments that the city has passed three resolutions and has spoken out against the additional train terminals, yet, the trains keep coming. To me, this is just wasted energy on the part of a City Council that has been about the boutique issues and not those that affect the day-to-day for city residents.
So in the end, if you are satisfied with city business as usual, you will find Rognstad to be a good choice. If you are looking for change from what you perceive is a city government that doesn’t respond to the residents, then Dunkel might be your choice. Either way, make sure you vote.
feed the goats should be shot with bean bags. Then, if the offending hikers continue to think it is cute to feed crappy human food to wild animals of any species, they should be darted, radio collared and relocated to a large urban location where they can sit on a bench and feed the squirrels and pigeons.
Allan Bopp Sandpoint
Now that’s more like it! Lee Santa, take note; THIS is how you write a letter to the editor. [Ben Olson]
Robo call in poor taste...
Dear Editor,
While it is not illegal to verbalize racist views or language, doing so promotes a negative stereotype for our region that is
damaging to both citizens and businesses. This is especially true when the language not only targets and disrupts the mayoral campaign of Sandpoint but makes negative references to Ferguson, Mo.
Politics in Sandpoint is noted for it’s lively discussions and diverse viewpoints. Sandpoint citizens educate themselves on the issues and make their political choices through their vote. The recent robocall was not only in poor taste, it was not warranted nor wanted. The Bonner County Human Rights Task Force continues to promote Sandpoint and the surrounding region as too great for hate, where all are welcome.
Lynn
Bridges President BCHRTF Sandpoint
Goats, hikers and bean bags...
Dr. Pam Bird and friends killed in plane crash:
By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff
Bird Aviation Museum co-founder Dr. Pam Bird, 58, and aviators Tookie Hensley, 80, and Don Hensley, 84, were the victims of an airplane crash Thursday morning.
An inter-agency team headed up by the National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the incident and have confirmed two of the three passengers are dead. The third passenger is unaccounted for, but search parties haven’t found any signs of survivors.
“[These individuals] were a part of the aviation community, of which Civil Air Patrol is also a part,” said Tom Woltz of Civil Air Patrol at a press conference Friday. “I want to extend my condolences to their families.”
According to Bonner County Sheriff Daryl Wheeler, his deputies received a distress signal from an aircraft at 8:26 a.m. Thursday morning. The signal stopped transmitting not long afterward. Since the emergency beacons are designed to transmit after an impact, Woltz believes the device was damaged in the collision.
With the help of Whitefish-based Two Bear Air, which specializes in assisting search and rescue operations, authorities battled cloud-obscured mountaintops to spot the crash site, finally catching sight of the smoking wreckage around 2:30 p.m.
“Once we were able to force our way through the clouds and find a hole to the ground, that’s when we spotted the plane,” said Woltz.
The fixed-wing Cessna 182 rested on the south face of Round Top Mountain just north of Hope. An Air Force Rescue and Coordination Center radar report indicated the plane was flying 47 knots and 71 feet off the ground immediately before the crash. Debris was scattered around the scene, and the aircraft itself was burning.
“Most of you have seen these kinds of pictures [of wrecked
airplanes] on TV, and this was no different,” Bonner County Sheriff Daryl Wheeler said.
According to Wheeler, the search team discovered the remains of two passengers, believed to be Pam Bird and Tookie Hensley, inside the airplane. The third body, likely Don Hensley, is missing. Wheeler said his remains may be trapped under the wrecked fuselage, which is still burning and requires machinery to move. The team anticipates returning to the crash site, which Wheeler said is being treated with the utmost care, Saturday morning with new investigators.
“We have no idea what caused the accident,” Wheeler said.
“At this point, we just want to maintain the integrity of the scene,” he added later.
By Wednesday, the investigation still hadn’t turned up a third body. A Priest Lake Search and Rescue team spent Sunday searching for both the remains and a 74-year-old hunter who was reported lost in the region. They found the hunter but not the remains.
Authorities returned to the mountain Tuesday to remove the wreckage. According to Wheeler, they found additional evidence and examined the area thoroughly. The NTSB should have a preliminary accident report finished within a few days, he added.
“Our ultimate goal is to provide as much information and closure for the families as possible,” he said in a press release.
It’s a tragic end to what started out as a joyful trip between dear friends, who left the Bird’s airfield at 8:16 a.m. The plan was to fly to Minot, N.D., then continue eastward. According to Rachel Riddle Schwam, Bird’s daughter and the director of the Bird Aviation Museum and Invention Center, the three looked forward to a lobster dinner in Maine. They then intended to fly to Florida and visit Bird’s son and six-week-old grandchild.
Schwam said the Bird Aviation Museum and Invention
Authorities still investigating cause of the crash as of Wednesday
Center will likely release a statement about the crash within the next few days. The museum is being run by its volunteers while Schwam attends to her family, she said.
All three passengers in the crash built impressive reputations over long careers.
According to her biography on the Bird Aviation Museum website, Bird worked liaison between inventors and investors, ultimate founding and leading Innovative Product Technologies as its CEO. She advised manufacturers on product distribution and also shared her expertise with media outlets, serving as a consultant for ABC’s “20/20” and providing quotes to newspapers like The New York Times. An avid writer herself, she authored more than 70 publications of her own, including the “Inventing for Dummies” book in the popular “Dummies” series. She was a licensed pilot who loved aviation, horseback riding, skiing, gardening and boating.
Bird was the wife of Dr. Forrest M. Bird, a renowned aviator and the famous inventor of revolutionary medical respirator technology. Together, the two founded the Bird Aviation Museum and Invention Center in Sagle, which showcases dozens of aircraft and inventions with the goal of inspir-
ing youth toward careers in science. Forrest Bird passed away at the age of 94 just two months earlier in August.
Don and Tookie Hensley were also well-known in the aviation world. Both Mohave Valley, Ariz., residents were pilots, and Tookie Hensley was a mentor and instructor to Pam Bird. A member of numerous aviation organizations, she was an enthusiastic supporter of Air Race Classic, started in 1929 to organize air races for female pilots forbidden from competing against men. The organization provides resources for women interested in aviation.
“These were incredible figures in the aviation world, and we want to do the best job we can investigating this,” Wheeler said.
SHS bus incident leaves students unharmed
Sandpoint High School athletes hit a scary bump in the road Saturday when windy weather blew their bus into a highway guardrail.
The bus carrying boy’s soccer team was just past Moscow when high-speed winds blew the bus off-road at 3:20 p.m., according to Lake Pend Oreille School District Superintendent Shawn Woodward. No one was hurt in the incident, but the bus did take out a section of the guard rail. LPOSD Transportation Director James Koehler happened to be in Moscow for his own child’s soccer game, so he traveled up to oversee the situation personally. According to Woodward, the incident was dramatic but ultimately harmless, except for some bus and infrastructure damages. A final accident report should be prepared within a few days. [CR]
Tookie Hensley, left, and Dr. Pamela Riddle Bird, right, were among the victims of Thursday’s airplane crash. Photo credit: “Flight for Success” blog.
Search teams investigate the crash site. Credit: Bonner County Sheriff’s Office.
FEATURE
Welcome to Leith:
Think Idaho is the only northern state that has battled the stigma of racism? Think again.
By Chris Balboni Reader contributor
“Well, this is embarrassing,” someone half-groans behind me in the theater a few weeks ago as a trailer for the documentary “Welcome to Leith” plays.
I’m in Bismarck, N.D., and the screen shows a wiry older man with frizzy white hair toting a rifle and spouting racial slurs as he strolls through a rural town elsewhere in the state. After finally seeing the film, I can certainly feel for that other theatergoer.
The story of Leith, N.D. is one that strikes a uncomfortably familiar chord for many in Idaho and Montana. I grew up in Montana in the 1990s, a time when the Patriot movement was grasping at the backwoods of the state in towns like Jordan. There, the Montana Freemen tried to form their own anti-government township in 1996, but were ultimately arrested after a tense standoff with the FBI. Just down the road from my hometown was the North Idaho area, where the white supremacists in the Aryan Nations were headquartered until 2001. Militia movements and white power groups intertwined for much of the ‘90s in this part of the world, a cancerous presence that disturbed those who had the misfortune to live near it. The footage of a man in the street, armed and full of hate, is an eerie reminder of one of the most regrettable phases of history in the Northwest.
That man is Craig Cobb, the central figure of “Welcome To Leith.” In 2012, Cobb moved to the secluded town of Leith, which boasts a mere 24 citizens and sits 15 minutes away from the county seat of Carson (pop. 293). Leith is roughly 90 minutes away from the state capital of Bismarck, the nearest “real” city, and is a dot of civilization with only a handful of properties. When Cobb moved in, his
intention was to purchase as many plots of land as he could in order to build a haven for white nationalists. It was a plan that came dangerously close to working as more of Cobb’s ilk moved in, and the filmmakers behind “Welcome to Leith” stuck themselves right in the middle of it.
In fact, the “middle of it” is where the films starts and stays. Cobb’s presence in the town grows as he buys up land, even as the few families that live there become frightened and angry. The film spends as much time with Cobb and his righthand man Kynan Dutton—a scrawny Gulf War veteran with a poor Hitler mustache—as it does with those who want him out. Directors Michael Nichols and Christopher Walker describe filming with Cobb for the first half of the day, then literally walking across the street to film the neighbors for the second part of the day. The result is a film portraying the reality of life not just as a citizen next door, but as Cobb himself.
Soft-spoken and articulate
with an easy smile, Craig Cobb is not what most imagine a devout racist to be. There’s an undeniable intelligence to the man who, at the surface, seems like your slightly-off uncle. But as the film delves deeper into his life, it’s clear that a monster lies underneath, one that gleefully talks about the superiority of the white race, who screams anti-Semitic slurs at the opposition and who spends the vast majority of his days online, stirring up support for his views in white supremacist forums.
Cobb’s true nature eventually led to safety concerns for local news crews covering developments in Leith. He was the reason a city police officer was present inside the screening room for every showing of the film in Bismarck over the course of three days. It’s one thing to be a hateful person, but as the film shows, it’s another to be one with ties to murky individuals who have no qualms about committing violent crimes. The film drips with that malevolent presence, and when combined with all the foreboding shots of
a winter-clad Leith, it plays like a horror film.
Atmosphere aside, “Welcome to Leith” is at its most interesting when normal, law-abiding citizens are pushed to their moral limits by Cobb’s presence: Protesters from all over the state are shown rallying in Leith in one scene, a hopeful sight to be sure. But another scene has Dutton’s wife finding their vehicles vandalized and a citizen parked in their driveway refusing to leave, despite her repeated requests. You’re honestly not sure whose side to take: Can you blame anyone for wanting to retaliate against such a hateful group of people? Doubtful. But if hate begets harassment and violence, where does that leave our society? It’s in these moments, and there are plenty, where “Welcome to Leith” truly shines.
The film does suffer from its shoe-string, Kickstarter-funded budget in places, with a few abrupt jumps over months of time, and it’s somewhat difficult to understand the geographic relationship of all the affected towns. These are minor issues
though, and on the whole the documentary is not simply coherent, but thought-provoking. It’s a hugely successful endeavor.
“Welcome to Leith” is terrifying and provocative, a fly-onthe-wall documentary drenched in the atmosphere of a horror film. What does it all mean? As I walked out of the showing in Bismarck I could see, just down the street, the Motel 6 where Cobb spent the final few minutes of the film happily reading from a novel on white superiority. It was a reminder that this is not about some crazy thing that happened in a far-away place. It’s about that moment, as Ryan Lenz puts it in the film, “When the outside world that’s kept apart from much of rural America... Sort of came up through the soil.”
Hopefully, “Welcome to Leith” helps us understand how we can stop weeds like Cobb from growing in our communities.
Chris Balboni is a filmmaker and freelance writer based primarily out of northwest Montana.
One of Craig Cobb’s signs burns in the snow. Photo by Michael Beach Nichols.
8
Bouquets:
•Way to stand up for decency, Sandpoint, by flooding us with phone calls and letters to the editor after the infamous “robo calls” made the rounds last week. It’s clear that we don’t stand for these low attacks.
In case you live in a cave, the calls went out last week disparaging one of the Sandpoint mayoral candidates. The subject matter in the calls were laced with racial, sexist and homophobic inferences, not to mention the overall childish fear-mongering tone of the attack. I’m proud of how our town handled the calls.
•Idaho Pour Authority has established itself as not only a place to grab a beer and have a gam with good friends, but the headquarters for nonprofits to get their message out there in the community. Here’s a bouquet for Jon and Vicki for providing such a fun forum to support vital organizations.
Barbs:
•It’s only a matter of time before we do away with the most inappropriate of federal holidays: Columbus Day. It seems strange we recognize the feats of Christopher Columbus when the truth of his contributions to history are much more sordid than we learned about in elementary school.
To start with, he never really landed on American soil, and even if he did, he didn’t “discover” it (there were already natives living there, and even so, Lief Ericson “discovered” America 500 years prior to 1492). The truth was, Columbus was hungry for gold and savagely mistreated the native population. He captured the native women as sex slaves, killed the native men who defied him, and was sent back to Spain in shackles for his misdeeds, yet pardoned in the end. Why exactly do we celebrate this man?
Attack of the little blue bugs
By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff
They’re ba-aack.
Step foot outside, and it’s impossible to ignore the swarms of flying insects, a menace to bikers everywhere. They get in your hair, up your nose and generally annoy anyone unfortunate enough to stumble through them.
According to Idaho State Department of Agriculture Entomologist Paul Castrovillo, however, these pesky bugs are relatively harmless. They’re called blue ash aphids, and while they’re around all year long, they’re only really noticeable for a few days in autumn.
For most of the year, these in-
sects don’t have wings. For that matter, most don’t have male genitalia. A fresh generation of the critters hatch in spring to begin feeding on the roots of fir trees, eventually giving live birth to new aphids along the way. It’s only when the days grow shorter that they’re triggered to produce both winged aphids and males.
“I don’t know how exactly that works, but science is a mysterious and wonderful thing,” said Castrovillo.
Once the males show up, it’s time to swarm. The insects take to the air for a mating frenzy that ends with females laying eggs in the bark of ash trees. The new generation won’t hatch until spring, and once the swarm
ends, most residents won’t know the grounded aphids even exist.
“Mating season is very
short-lived,”
“It comes and goes in a matter of days or weeks at most.”
Sandpoint Reader, SandpointOnline host candidate forum
By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff
If our (Wo)Man on the Street interviews are any indication, many Sandpoint candidates could probably use a primer on mayoral candidates. Well, you’re in luck. The Sandpoint Reader and Sandpoint Online are teaming up to host a candidate forum Wednesday, Oct. 28, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Sandpoint Community Hall.
The evening will provide an ideal opportunity to learn the positions of mayoral candidates
Mose Dunkel and Shelby Rognstad. Although they’re running unopposed, incumbent council members Bill Aitken, Thomas
Eddy and Deb Fragoso will also be present to address the issues and their qualifications. Finally, Sandpoint Mayor Carrie Logan and Parks and Recreation Director Kim Woodruff will give a presentation on the proposed one-percent sales tax to rebuild the Barlow Stadium grandstands at Memorial Field.
Come prepared, because the candidates will answer questions from the audience. To email a question, go to Sandpoint Online’s Election Central, www.SandpointElections.com, and click the “submit a question” link.
Sandpoint Mayoral candidates Shelby Rognstad, left, and Mose “Mo” Dunkel, right, will be on hand Wednesday, Oct. 28 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Sandpoint Community Hall to answer questions for their constituents.
Community spotlight:
Fire open house Community Radio auction
Selkirk Fire will be hosting a open house Oct. 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sandpoint Station 1 (1123 Lake St.). Highlights include free smoke alarms, engine rides, station tours, climbing wall, quick draw competition, flu shots, education on wood stove safety and burning regulations.
A free lunch will also be provided. Come meet emergency crews that serve your community. Give Clint Frank a call for more details (208) 627-9988
Want to support your local community radio station? Check out the annual online auction benefiting KRFY 88.5 FM Community Radio.
The benefit auction opens Oct. 16 and closes on Oct. 25.
To view and bid on a wide variety of items, point your web browers to www.biddingforgood.com./KRFY.
Here are just a few of the items or events waiting for you to bid on: lake cruises, collector wines, Caribbean vacations,
ski weekends at Schweitzer, concert tickets, exotic vacation destinations, Seahawks game tickets and more.
Help support your community radio station, 88.5 KRFY and acquire something wonderful in return.
For more information, please go to the station’s website, www.krfy.org, email krfyradio@gmail.com or call 208265-2992.
There will also be a fundraiser event Wednesday, Oct. 21 at Idaho Pour Authority to benefit
KRFY Community Radio.
The Brew Party goes from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. and features live music by the blues master Truck Mills.
Have a brew with Iron Horse Brewery and meet members of the community radio station. There will be complimentary appetizers and a raffle that kicks off at 7 p.m. This is a free event that is open to the public, so head on down and support community radio.
Castrovillo said.
A blue ash aphid rests before flying directly inside your nostrils.
$12 at door
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
Dollar Beers!
8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Good until the keg’s dry
Thursday Night Football Party
5pm @ Laughing Dog Brewery
Rock 103 Thursday Night Football Party hosted by Tracy Featuring the Atlanta Falcons at the New Orleans Saints Homeschool Library Program
9:30am @ Sandpoint Library
For more information, contact Suzanne 263-6930 ext.1211
3D Printer Workshop for Adults
5:30pm @ Sandpoint Library
Call 263-6930 ext. 1204 for more information
Live Music w/ Marty Perron & Doug Bond
5pm - 7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority
KRFY 88.5 FM Community Radio online auction
Visit auction site at www/krfy/org. Many local businesses and individuals have donated an amazing array of interesting and exciting auction items, including Caribbean vacations, Seattle Seahawk tickets, sailing adventures, books, dinners, massages, Wild Honey concert. Bid now and help support north Idaho community radio
Live Music w/ Justin Lantrip
5:30pm - 7:30pm @ Idaho Pour Authority
“Good Good Day” play
7pm @ Pearl Theater (Bonners)
Paul Rawlings and Tom Sturdevant collaboration, with musical talents of Drew, John, and Tom in an entertaining and moving production featuring an all local cast of more than a dozen thespians. $10 adv, $12 at door
Unique Goods and Curious Finds Market
10am - 4pm @ The Bernd Building (311 N. 1st)
The market features local vendors — everything from antiques to salvage to jewelry. Get your holiday shopping started. Free admission, plus there’s more fun to be had upstairs at the Bernd Barrel!
Sandpoint Chess Club
9am @ Evans Brothers Coffee Meets every Sunday at 9am. All are welcome
Monday Night Blues Jam w/ Truck Mills
7:30pm @ Eichardt’s Pub
Mug Member Monday @ Neighborhood Pub 2 for $5 pints
Trivia Night
7pm - 9pm @ MickDuff’s
Karaoke Night
9pm - Midnight @ 219 Lounge
Bingo Night
Ivano’s Wine Dinner
6:30pm @ Ivano’s Ristorante
A 5-course meal featuring wines from Veneto, Allegrini pan. $60 per person, reservations ommended as this often sells
Live Music w/ Mike and Shanna 5pm - 8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery
A quick pickin’, amped up, guitar folk rock duo. They’re local favorites you want to enjoy
Sandpoint Style
6pm - 10pm @ Sandpoint Events Center
A night of fashion, fun, prizes, food and more! Enjoy a fashion show featuring the latest fall styles, plus there will be shop ping with great vendors. A delicious din ner and desserts will be served, plus silent and live auctions. Tickets are $25 each. Presented by Angels over Sandpoint
U-Pick Pumpkin Patch @ Hickey Farms, located on Highway 200 east of Sandpoint
Monday Night Football parties
Sweet Lou’s hosts the K-102 Monday Night Football Party and MickDuff’s Beer Hall hosts the KPND 106.7 Party - featuring the New York Giants at the Philadelphia Eagles
2 for $22 @ Neighborhood Pub 2 entrees and an appy for $22
6:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall
Charley Packard & Friends
7:30pm @ Eichardt’s Pub
Five Minutes of Fame
6:30pm @ Cafe Bodega Writers, musicians, listeners ... all are welcome!
Dollar Beers!
8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Good until the keg’s dry
Thursday Night Football Party
5pm @ Laughing Dog Brewery
Wine Reads Discussion 6pm @ Bernd Barrel a discussion of Idaho Wine Minskoff. Preregister by
KRFY Radio Fundraiser 4pm - 8pm @ Idaho Pour Authority
Come down and support KRFY 88.5 Community brew party fundraiser. Ashley Stevens with ery will be on hand to help host the event. Truck Mills. Complimentary appetizers and
MickDuff’s Beer Release
6pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall
Rock 103 Thursday Night Football Party hosted by Tracy Bellfeaturing the Seattle Seahawks at the San Francisco 49ers
Join Lake Pend Oreille Waterkeeper cy for clean water as LPOW Beer Hall, 220 Cedar St. Learn the issues we’re working on
“Good Good Day” play 7pm @ Pearl Theater (Bonners)
hosted by Tracy Bell. Orleans Saints
information
Day” play Theater (Bonners)
Dinner
Ristorante
featuring northern Italian Veneto, Allegrini and Pieroperson, reservations are recoften sells out
Shanna Winery guitar folk favorites you
Events Center prizes, food and featuring the will be shopdelicious dinserved, plus silent are $25 each.
Sandpoint
October 15 - 22, 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
“Phoenix” film
7:30pm @ Panida Theater
A spellbinding mystery of identity, illusion, and deception unfolds against the turmoil of post-World War II Germany
Monarch Open Mic
6pm - 9pm @ Monarch Mountain Coffee
Hosted by Scott Reid, come one come all!
Live Music w/ You Knew Me When 5pm - 8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery
This husband and wife duo from Nashville, Tenn., are on tour throughout the U.S. promoting their collective indie folk-rock sound
Live Music w/ Devon Wade
6:30pm - 9:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall
Barbara Jean and Jack Klatt Concert
7:30pm @ Di Luna’s Cafe
Monday Night
Beer Hall hosts the New York
U-Pick Pumpkin Patch
@ Hickey Farms, located on Highway 200 east of Sandpoint
Live Music w/ Chris Lynch 6pm - 9pm @ Arlo’s Ristorante
Live Music w/ Ken Mayginnes 7pm @ La Rosa Club
Barbara Jean grew up immersed in a world of music and sound, honing her early gift for the violin and a musical legacy passed from grandmother to mother to daughter, into a sharp eye for songwriting and a skilled hand as a multi-instrumentalist. She has shared with stage with notable acts such as Trampled By Turtles, Leon Russell and Kathy Mattea. She’s been called “Minnesota’s answer to Emmylou Harris”
Men of Worth
6:30pm @ Panida Theater
POAC presents Scotsman Donnie Macdonald and Irishman James Keigher, the Men of Worth, who will celebrate their heritage with harmonious vocals and varied selection of instruments. This is the first POAC Performing Arts Series program of the season, and opening the show will be Tami and Dave Gunter of Bridges Home, featuring Paul Gunter making this popular duo a trio for the evening! Tickets are $10 POAC member; $12 adult; $5 ages 18 and under
Neighbor Day
6pm @ Neighborhood Pub
$1 beer and Cards Against Humanity tables
Discussion & Tasting
Bernd Barrel of Idaho Wine Country by Alan
Preregister by 10/15 - 263-6930
Authority
88.5 Community Radio with a Stevens with Iron Horse Brewhost the event. Live music with appetizers and a raffle at 7pm
U-Pick Pumpkin Patch
Hickey Farms, located on Highway 200 east of Sandpoint, hosts its third year of festive family fun with a pumpkin patch, games, local artisan products and more
Live Music w/ Ron Criscione 6:30pm - 8:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall
A Spokane native and guitar specialist, Criscione is gracing the Beer Hall for his first time and is ready to play some of our favorite rock, folk and pop songs
Live Music w/ Chris Lynch 6pm - 9pm @ Arlo’s Ristorante
UPCOMING EVENTS
Oct. 24 - BlueStreak Concert @ Di Luna’s
Oct. 24 - Queen B. Drag Show and Costume Contest @ Eagles Club Oct. 29-31 - The Rocky Horror Show @ The Panida
North Idaho Reads lunchCRAFT Part II 12pm @ Sandpoint Library
Create a wine themed craft and sample cheeses & wine infused jellies while learning about the best pairings and the science of tasting from Litehouse Foods Brand manager, Margi Gunter. Preregistration required by 10/15, 263-6930 ext. 1204
Release Party and LPOW Annual Meeting
MickDuff’s Beer Hall
Oreille Waterkeeper in celebrating another successful year of grassroots advocaas LPOW releases a special brew with the talented crew at 6 p.m. in MickDuff’s Cedar St. Learn what LPOW has accomplished so far in 2015, and get a preview of working on this fall and winter. Live music, door prizes and a whole lot of fun!
•free lunch provided
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.
-molly & annie-
Molly and Annie (foreground) playing!
Molly and Annie have been playing like this for six years (Annie’s age!). On occasion one will let out a yip!
Carl Thomas ZMUDA Sandpoint
STAGE & SCREEN
Fall T.V. preview
By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff
We’re knee-deep into the fall season, which means that the last of the summer shows are on their way out (so long, “Hannibal.” You were too good for this world), and a host of new and returning programs have or will soon debut. This fall sees new seasons from some serious heavy hitters—immensely popular “The Walking Dead” premiered its sixth on Oct. 11. But there are also enough new or significantly revamped series in the mix to keep things interesting. Here the shows I’m looking forward to the most as we move into the final months of the year.
“The Daily Show with Trevor Noah”—Sept. 28, Comedy Central
Is there any entertainer with more pressure on him or her right now than Trevor Noah? Not only is the South African comic relatively young and untested, but he also has the unenviable task of following Jon Stewart, who built “The Daily Show” over 16 years into the most popular politics and news comedy show in the country
Since taking over the program on Sept. 28, Noah has shown himself to be well aware of audience expectations, but he’s handled the heat with impressive surety and grace. Still, only time will tell whether he can fully replace Stewart as America’s favorite fake newsman.
“Homeland”— Oct. 4, Showtime
In 2011, Showtime’s CIA thriller “Homeland” debuted an extraordinary first season rich with excellent acting (Mandy Patinkin, people!), tight pacing and a keep-you-guessing structure of calculated twists and revelations. Since then, the show has been all over the map, stumbling from wild implausibility back to surprising depth and nuance.
The latest season relocates the show to Germany, where journalists and computer hackers are stirring up a potential crisis of national security. Two episodes in, it’s a little early to tell the quality of the season as a whole. Either way, the cast is sure to act it out with customary gusto.
“The Leftovers”— Oct. 4, HBO
How would you react if a percentage of the Earth’s population vanished without explanation? Would you assume it was the Rapture, a belief held by many Christians? Would you prefer the alien abduction theory? And how would you deal with the grief of lost loved ones, gone without even a body to bury?
“The Leftovers” explored these questions in an uneven but fitfully compelling first season last year. Its second season sees a major restructuring of the show, with the central Garvey family moving to a Texas town that supposedly wasn’t affected by the disappearances. Expect mystery, ambiguity and great music from composer Max Richter.
“Fargo”— Oct. 12, FX
Spun off from the classic Coen brothers movie, “Fargo’s” first season was a surprising success in almost every respect. The twisting story of gangsters, liars and hitmen sorting out their bloody
business amid the Scandinavian accents and impeccable manners of Minnesota delivered both thrills and laughs aplenty
The second season overhauls the cast and story, traveling back in time to 1979 South Dakota, where state policeman Lou Solverson must tangle with both crime syndicate plots and a scheduled campaign stop by presidential candidate Ronald Reagan.
“The Knick”—Oct. 16, Cinemax
Maybe the best American history series since the unparalleled “Deadwood,” “The Knick” explores the birth of modern medicine at the beginning of the 20th century as experienced by the staff of the Knickerbocker Hospital in New York City.
Built upon a tremendous lead performance by Clive Owen, “The Knick” is beautifully shot, directed and acted. But beware if you’re the squeamish type, because it doesn’t shy away from some
of the era’s more jaw-dropping medical procedures.
“The Man in the High Castle” Nov. 20, Amazon
“The Man in the High Castle” set TV fans abuzz when Amazon released the pilot episode to lavish critical praise earlier this year. An adaptation of a novel by Philip K. Dick, one of the greatest science fiction authors of the 20th century, the series is set in an alternate history where the Axis powers have won World War II. America is divided between the Japanese Empire in the west and the Nazi’s Third Reich in the east, with a neutral zone stretching down the Rocky Mountains.
Can “The Man in the High Castle” live up to its excellent pilot episode? We’ll find out Nov. 20, when all 10 episodes go live to stream for Amazon Prime subscribers.
unfolds against the turmoil of post-World War II Germany
Mayoral candidates weigh in on the issues
For this special election double feature, we crafted a questionnaire for our two Sandpoint mayoral candidates, Shelby Rognstad and Mose Dunkel so that you, the voter, might gain a better knowledge of how each candidate stands on important issues facing our town. What follows are the questions, followed by each candidate’s response. (Ben Olson & Cameron Rasmusson).
1. Could you give an overview of why you decided to run for mayor? What are some of the most compelling issues that motivated you to put your name forward?
MOSE: I ran four years ago based on the fact that there was a growing divide between city hall and the residents of Sandpoint. I was right, and the last four years have only proven my point more. The city has continually taken steps to disenfranchise the voters by making decisions that are broadly unpopular in the community. The agenda of City Hall is apparent and does not match what people need! Utility rates continue to climb to a level that is seriously hurting low-income families. People are forced to choose between a gallon of milk and a gallon of gas, while they can’t afford to water their grass! Instead of relief, the mayor and council decide to spend more money on a new bureaucratic position at an unbelievable salary. The explanation provided by the mayor is weak, and the backlash against it is strong. It’s undeniable proof that we are not heard.
SHELBY: Sandpoint needs experienced leadership. I have served the community in city government for eight years, currently as City Council president. We’ve been successful in attracting and retaining good employers, in creating new zoning which ensures an affordable, beautiful town and in developing improvements in the quality of life for all residents and visitors. My colleagues and supporters have asked me to run for mayor to continue this success. We need someone with experience, knowledge and vision to keep the city moving forward. I am the only candidate with a proven track record as an elected official.
2. The new city administrator position looks to be a done deal, but positions regarding the new post should be informative for voters. Could you detail your stance?
SHELBY: The city administrator position was a priority goal for Mayor Logan. The position was established with a unanimous vote from City Council and strong public support. Hiring the right person is what will make this the right de-
cision for Sandpoint. I personally asked Mayor Logan to invite public comment in the hiring process, and she has agreed. Sandpoint will retain a strong mayor, accountable to voters, while the administrator will provide counsel and facilitation between department heads, mayor and council. The administrator will provide continuity through transitions in departments and elected leadership. Perhaps most importantly, he or she will provide grant support for every department, which will keep outside dollars funneling in to support local projects and industry. This will more than offset any cost of their employment.
MOSE: Yes, everything but naming the person to be hired is done. My stance is this: The city is charged with providing services to the public, and to me, that means anyone working for the city needs to work hard and be accountable to the public, especially the mayor. I will work hard to create a strong relationship with whomever is hired, I have a strong background in finding a common dialog and building productive relationships in business and in the volunteer community. Failure is not an option with this position. With as much negative feedback as the position received, it will be under a microscope. If it doesn’t work out, it will not be because I didn’t try every available option. I want this professional to help lower utility rates and fix our looming water/sewer issues. I want them to help find ways to support the youth and low income families of Sandpoint. I’ll need support from everyone, and this person should be at the top of the list. I won’t deny there are good possibilities with this position.
3. For the past several years, the Sandpoint Comprehensive Plan has been an important guiding document for public officials. What’s your opinion of it? Do you aim to keep working toward the goals expressed in it?
MOSE: Planning is a good idea as long as you make it realistic. It should also be flexible so that obvious mistakes are not made. Parts of the plan are great and parts are not. I plan to learn more about it See MAYOR, page 15
SHELBY ROGNSTADMOSE “MO” DUNKEL
Age: 41.
Hometown: Fourth generation Idahoan. Born and raised in Lewiston, Idaho.
Occupation:
Owner Rognstad Enterprises: Real Estate investments and management, 2012-current.
Founder/owner/operator: Common Knowledge Bookstore and Café, 2005-2015.
Co-Founder/owner/operator: The Hive, Sandpoint concert house, 2013-2014.
Education: BA in General Studies from University of Idaho, 1998.
Experience Relevant to your mayoral run: Sandpoint City Council President, 2014-Current. Sandpoint City Council, 2012-Current Sandpoint Planning and Zoning, Vice-chair, 2009-2012. Sandpoint Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee, 2007-2008.
City of Sandpoint Committees: Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory, 2014-Current. Arts Commission, 2012-2013.
Fire Union Labor Contract Negotiating Team, 2012 Downtown Streets Design Steering Committee, 2012. Trail Mix Committee (regional multijurisdictional advisory body for recreation and connectivity), 2014-Present
Age: 39.
Hometown: Sandpoint, Idaho.
Occupation: Forest Health Professional.
Education: Sandpoint High School
North Idaho College(real estate, general studies, financial & investment short courses)
University of Idaho (many extension programs relating to forestry including L.E.A.P. and Idaho Master Forest Stewards)
Player Safety Coach USA Football (NFL) CDL class A drivers license Pilot ground school
Experience Relevant to your mayoral run: 15-plus years business management including planning and budgets of $1 million-plus, training and management of up to 15 employees. Extensive work with federal contracts and state of Idaho contracts.
I have ran for city office two times before. My commitment is genuine to the people of Sandpoint and nothing more.
My dedication to the youth of Sandpoint and my track record of volunteering 500-plus hours a year proves I have the qualities to serve.
I have 39 years life experience here.
Illustrations by Daniel Cape
and work towards things that benefit Sandpoint as a whole.
SHELBY: I was directly involved in drafting the 2009 comprehensive plan. I was impressed with the extent of public input and discussion throughout the process. The result was a plan that clearly expresses the needs, desires and values of the whole community. As such it is essential that public officials recognize its significance and embrace it. It is also essential that it continue to be revised and updated so that it remains relevant and valuable to the community it serves. As mayor, I expect to lead a comprehensive plan revision in 2016.
4. We’ve seen a lot of concern over coal and oil trains and their impact on the town, especially when it comes to the danger of a potential derailment. What role do you see Sandpoint playing in supporting or opposing the potential expansions of these shipments?
SHELBY: These concerns are very real for our community. Sandpoint residents and the City Council have been very vocal in opposition to these increased shipments. We have passed three resolutions stating as much and have spoken out against additional coal terminals in Washington and Oregon. I will continue to oppose this expansion at every opportunity. I will push for increased safety and containment standards for all rail lines. I will also work with city and county public safety officials to improve our mitigation plan.
MOSE: I wouldn’t say we’ve seen a lot of concern over this, but we have seen some concern regarding it. I feel like the agenda is a lot more than safety, which I support in every aspect of life. I think the best approach is to work with the railroads to do as much as we can to facilitate their operations to be safe and efficient.
5. Next year will see the implementation of the new downtown streets configuration, which will transform transportation in town. What’s your stance on the new plan?
MOSE: It’s been a long time coming, and I still remember the old traffic pattern from when I was young. My stance is I want to make sure the diagonal parking is done correctly so that traffic has room to travel safely through town.
SHELBY: The new downtown streets plan is another victory for transparent government and community engagement. We devel-
oped the plan with broad public involvement from businesses and residents. The plan will dramatically improve parking downtown by adding 100 spaces. It will make downtown more accessible and friendly to drivers, pedestrians and cyclists. We will make downtown streets safer and provide more pedestrian and bicycle amenities. The new configuration will also allow the city to complete the stormwater plan for downtown, which reduces stress on our wastewater system and improves water quality in the lake. All these improvements will make for a vibrant urban core and further establish downtown Sandpoint as a destination for retail, service and recreation.
6. Another big item on this year’s ballot is the local option tax supporting Memorial Field. Are you for or against it?
SHELBY: Memorial Field is a wonderful asset for Sandpoint with historical and cultural significance. It is Sandpoint’s premier athletic field and hosts the Festival at Sandpoint. I would love to see it improved into a state of the art facility and therefore support the measure. After years of fundraising efforts by Friends of Memorial Field, the local option tax is likely our last great hope to fund the master plan. The resort tax allows the financial burden to be shared by tourists and visitors. Ultimately, it is up to the voters to determine whether Memorial Field is worthy of their investment.
MOSE: I am voting for it myself. This project is something I’ve supported for a long time. The sales tax is a fair way to spread the burden out and the Sandpoint economy brings enough outside dollars from tourism that hopefully it doesn’t hurt low-income families. The only better plan would be to make it county-wide.
7. What are your ideas for bringing new business and jobs into town? How about supporting those that already exist, particularly in the downtown sector?
MOSE: Sandpoint needs facilities that can train skilled people to do these jobs. Local people are best suited to take these jobs since they already have a connection here. It’s the most positive way to build a local economy by supporting local companies with local people. Outside businesses will appreciate the strong support, and new business ideas will be created in that environment. As far as downtown I think its time to reevaluate the BID and see if local business still want it. I’d like
to let businesses have more say in what works for them—after all, it is their downtown.
SHELBY: When Coldwater Creek closed its doors, our community lost 500 jobs. Despite the setback, Sandpoint has maintained an employment growth rate above the national average, at 2.8 percent. We have maintained employment growth by retaining and supporting companies like Quest, Lead-Lok, Tamarack, Kochava and Litehouse. As a City Council member, I have worked aggressively to retain these businesses by helping find grants, tax benefits and land for expansion. As mayor, I will continue to develop amenities that make Sandpoint attractive. I will complete the fiber network and bring ultra high speed Internet to Sandpoint, an essential amenity to attract high tech jobs and quality talent. I will support the growth of NIC. Workforce training is crucial for both the economic success of existing companies and for attracting new employers to the region. I will continue to implement the downtown streets plan. The plan will not only improve parking and make downtown much more attractive, it will allow downtown business more use of the public space for functions, events and outdoor seating. This will allow our downtown businesses to thrive. Lastly, I will continue to develop amenities that attract visitors and employers, such as the Pend Orielle Bay Trail, the Sandcreek Trail, the Baldy disc golf course and the Watershed Crest Trail.
8. Young people in Sandpoint are often forced to move out of town to make anything of themselves, even though many would prefer to stay. Do you have any ideas to provide them with more opportunity? Why do they leave?
MOSE: School and jobs, mostly. I think they also know how expensive it is to live here. Just south of us there are legitimate college campuses along with more available jobs. To top it off rent and home ownership are much more affordable. It’s not a secret why there is substantial growth there and very limited growth here. A community college campus here would be a great start with a focus on local industry, so youth could be trained for job openings in existing companies. A junior college football, soccer and baseball program would be awesome, too!
SHELBY: I am committed to providing youth with opportunities to live and work in Sandpoint. We must continue to attract and retain high-
tech employers. High-tech jobs are good paying jobs. Quest alone is adding 80 jobs and will employ 300 people by the end of the year. I will work to expand education and workforce training. Our youth need the educational support to transition out of high school into good employment. The PTECH program is a great example of this. It provides high school students with advanced training in aerospace, medical and information systems. This model needs to be supported and expanded to specifically address the needs of local industry. As mayor, I will appoint a citizen committee to work with NIC, local businesses and other partners to find ways to expand education opportunities for our youth. Also, if NIC could develop into a residential campus, Sandpoint could become a destination for higher education. This would multiply the positive impact on the downtown economy.
9. While you and your opponent are very different candidates, we understand one unexpected area of common ground is the legalization of cannabis. Could you talk about this in more detail?
SHELBY: Cannabis laws are quickly changing in the US. Idaho is surrounded by states that have either legalized medical or recreational cannabis. I think it is time for Idaho lawmakers to consider allowing properly licensed doctors to prescribe cannabis to patients with qualified conditions. We should not waste precious legal and police resources making criminals out of non-violent and often extremely ill citizens. As mayor, I will encourage the state of Idaho to re-examine its policy towards medical cannabis. I will also encourage the chief of police to deprioritize arresting nonviolent adults for simple possession. We need to focus police resources on fighting real criminals and keeping our community safe. I’m glad that my opponent shares this common sense stance.
MOSE: I’m in favor of natural ways to help people heal, and I’m also OK with people being responsible with personal use. I’ll be honest: I know very little about this, but when liberty is given to people with restrictions, it’s kinda not liberty anymore. The fact is the state of Idaho will probably be one of the last to legalize any use and the federal government still enforces its laws regarding it, so about the only thing Sandpoint could do is make it a least-priority enforcement inside the city limits, which I’m open to talking about. Bonner County, I believe, will still continue to treat it
as a priority, which will make it a possible issue. As mayor, I’m open for good ideas and collaborative planning.
10. Apathy appears to be a problem when it comes to getting residents invested in local government. Do you have any ideas to engage the public and encourage them to be a part of the process?
MOSE: This is the result of the divide I talked about earlier, and it is not new here. People absolutely feel like their voices are not heard! I don’t believe it’s apathy. I think it’s powerlessness. If you have a good plan, then people will show up to support it. I think having committee meetings in different locations would be a good idea to help bring attention to people who don’t know what going on. Also, wouldn’t it be awesome to have some City Council meetings at the City Beach during the summer? How about a city-sponsored community dinner right on the downtown streets? Town hall meetings could be held frequently where people have a real opportunity to engage with the mayor and council. A true open application period for any resident to apply when City Council seats become vacant would help. Once again I’m open to creative ways to stimulate local involvement! Apathy is not an option.
SHELBY: I intend to be active in engaging local media. Most people rely on the Reader, the Bee and our local radio stations for their news. I will do my best to ensure that these outlets are engaged in all important issues at City Hall. I will also promote engagement through social media, particularly the city’s Facebook page. This can be a great venue for announcements but also for discussion and debate over any issue. Of course, the next opportunity for engaging in local government is voting in this important election. Your vote will impact the future of Sandpoint. A vote for me is a vote for good jobs, expanded education, a clean environment, more recreational assets and improved public safety. I encourage everyone to come out and vote for their vision of Sandpoint.
We thank you both for taking the time to answer our questions Have an important question for either candidate? Their email addresses are listed below:
SHELBY: vote@electshelby.com
MOSE: modunkel@hotmail.com
By Marcia Pilgeram Reader Food Columnist
Last month was a whirlwind of culinary experiences for me.
Armed with an over-the-top invitation to the Montana Master Chef program, I drove to Montana to spend a few days in Greenough immersed in luxury at The Resort at Paws Up, a 37,000-acre luxury ranch about a half hour’s drive northeast of Missoula. In between hiking through the old ghost town of Garnet, rafting and fly-fishing on the low and lazy Blackfoot River, we were there to appreciate five-course dinners, each course carefully paired with fantastic Washington and California wines. The menus were a collaboration of featured chefs who were all award-winning Chicago restaurateurs and noted cookbook authors. It was culinary nirvana par none.
On three evenings, over the course of three hours, we dined on delicacies such as Colorado lamb loin and sweet breads, squab roasted over thyme branches and smoked char roe. Each night’s finale was a sublime dessert followed by a cozy, starry night concert in a luxury “glamping” tent. The Montana Master Chef program is an annual event that also includes a Cook-Off Challenge, not unlike the ones you’ve seen on television. After the judges completed their tasks, the plates were auctioned off, with proceeds benefiting the Missoula Food Bank. I was lucky enough to be seated next to one of the high bidding folks, from Bookwalter Winery, who generously shared their winning (and expensive) morsels with me.
Just a couple of weeks later,
The Sandpoint Eater Taking solace in soup
I was slurping succulent oysters from heaping icy platters at Elliot’s Oyster House in Seattle and the next day, nibbling savory sandwiches and sipping High Tea at the Empress Hotel in Victoria. My children have long accused me of planning vacations around restaurants and markets, and before heading home (guilty as charged), I made a final stop on my culinary adventure to Pike Place Market, where I stocked up on duck confit, French macaroons and Pierre Robert, the most decadent triple crème cheese ever. My cooler was filled to the brim with delicious ingredients while my mind and palate were perfecting a fabulous fall recipe for this very column.
I came home, unloaded the
cooler and caught up on local happenings. And the next minute I was knocked to my knees by sadness. Seems lately, our little community has been rocked by illnesses of hometown favorites and even the death of a local leader. And in this grief, I can’t care about fermenting kohlrabi for an appetizer, nor browning butter for a lemon verbena tart. I worry about my neighbors and our community, hit hard and vulnerable to life-changing trials.
My mind and heart are hurting, and I need the visceral comfort I can only find with the steady chopping, stirring and simmering that becomes soup. For starters, I drove up to Wood’s Meats to purchase my favorite sausage. It’s true I can buy it in town, but navigating
my heartache on the drive north is part of the therapy. On this familiar road, with the changing trees of autumn, I consider what draws me to soup making in my time of need. I just know it’s good for what ails us, whether we are the maker or the recipient. I know, because I have been on both ends of the soup chain and have appreciated the warm gesture of hot nourishment more than once in my life.
And it seems people have been simmering and sharing soup forever. The soup kitchen concept spread to the US from Ireland after the great Potato Famine, and for the past 150 years, soup kitchens have fed the weak and the poor. Locally, you can find several soup kitchens that serve our community
and nourish us with not only soup, but kinship and small town camaraderie.
I hope you’ll find solace in making some great soup this week—if not this recipe for Wood’s Sausage and Leek Soup, make your own go-to comfort soup. Make an extra batch to share with someone who’s been on your mind and you’ll both be grateful.
Local soup kitchens:
Monday: Hoot Owl
Tuesday: Sandpoint Adventist Church 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Wednesday: Gardenia Center 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Thursday: Methodist Church 4 - 6p.m.
Friday:
Woods Sausage, Leek and Kale Soup
You can easily double this soup and freeze half, just omit the kale step until you have thawed, reheated and are ready to serve.
INGREDIENTS: DIRECTIONS:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 leeks, finely chopped
• 2 pounds Wood’s Sausage, cut in half lengthwise and cube
• 4 medium Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed to ½ inch
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 cups half and half
• 2 cups rinsed and finely chopped kale
•Salt and white pepper to taste
•Rinse leeks well to remove all dirt. Finely chop the whites and the light green parts.
•Heat olive oil in a 2-quart Dutch oven or large pot over medium low heat; cook and stir the leek, until soft, but not browned, remove and set aside.
•Add cut sausage in the hot oil and stir, until sausage is browned, about 10 minutes.
•Stir potatoes into sausage mixture, return leeks to pan and pour in stock to cover mixture; add bay leaves.
•Simmer sausage-potato mixture over low heat until potatoes are tender and flavors of soup have blended, 1 to 2 hours.
•Remove and discard bay leaves.
Warm the cream, stir in and season with salt and pepper.
•Add the chopped kale, stir and ladle into soup bowls.
MUSIC
Barbara Jean in concert at Di Luna’s
By Dion Nizzi Reader Contributor
Minstrel: [min-struh l] - A traveling musician, singer, or poet.
Barbara Jean is a traveling minstrel in the purest and highest sense of the word. The musician often alluded to as the “Emmy Lou Harris of Minnesota” is on her way to town for a one-night performance at Di Luna’s Friday night at 7:30 p.m. The show follows an opening for wellknown country blues musician Charlie Parr in Bozeman and a quick stop in Moscow earlier this week.
In the middle of a long tour, with stops in her home state, Montana, Idaho and Sandpoint, then on to Seattle, Barbara Jean thinks that being on the road is a wonderful thing.
“When you go out on the road, it really simplifies things in a profound way,” she said.
Accompanying her on this trip is fellow minstrel Jack Klatt. She met Jack while playing the Minnesota Blue Grass Old Time Festival in summer 2014. Both played there and saw each other perform and discovered they had mutual interest and likes musically and later had a chance to perform together at an event in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. They enjoyed the experience so much that the current tour was born.
When flashing red “maintenance” lights appeared while on the road from Moscow, Barbara Jean knew how to take advantage of the time. A quick phone call with the Reader while waiting on the results of a auto check- up seems to have her energized just a bit.
An invitation from a friend, Waldorf Academy music teacher Nate Baker, put Sandpoint on the map for her and Jack, and after some research, Di Luna’s seemed like the perfect place to hold the show.
“We felt that what we saw of Di Luna’s seemed to be a good fit with the the genre of music Jack and I make,” she said
She’s never been to Sandpoint before this trip, and my immediate thought, after watching and listening to one of her recent music videos, is how much I think she’s going to feel right at home here.
As seen and heard on her website, BarbaraJeanmusic.com, her music is very much in line with the nature, beauty, spirit and feel of Sandpoint. I think she’ll feel a lot of that when she crosses the Long Bridge. I also think those of us lucky enough to be at the show will
see a lot of themselves and our own experiences in her music.
Barbara Jean says her music isn’t easily classifiable.
“I usually just call it Americana, folk roots...it has all kinds of different influences, some elements of which I still haven’t figured out,” she said. “I wore out tapes listening to Sam Cooke when I was younger, and I’ve always been drawn to different things over the years and it all seems to mesh well together.”
She plays banjo, fiddle and viola and creates her songs from experiences and accompanying melodies that “just happen in my head... and then, I just craft it.”
The music video of her song “The River” showcases many scenes familiar to our town: sprawling water, nature and railroads. It’s a meandering journey that rolls along through break ups, moving on and only seeing a lost love when looking back: “And the road goes on without you.”
The rhythm and lyrics of “Wishing Well” convey the lonely melody of lost love, a driving beat underlying the message that this special someone will always remain in her heart. The soulful “Flesh and Bones” draws you in with a strong slide guitar leading the way. Barbara Jean brings the song together with strong, velvety tones and lyrics. Her song, “Keep Rockin’ It” does just that with a folksy complement.
Her favorite part of this entire road experience, she says, has been the road trip in itself. “Traveling the country has just been spectacular. This part of the country reminds me so much of home: the vast wilderness, the wonderful countryside and the people we’ve met. And to share the music that Jack and I love is a pretty amazing thing.”
Once the curtain falls and lights drop on the Friday night performance, Barbara Jean and Jack are going to have an opportunity to spend a little time with friends here in town before heading to Seattle and then back home to Minnesota. Welcoming them to Sandpoint should be a highlight for anyone’s Friday night. Let’s fill the place up for them and welcome them “home.”
READ
It’s a zombie theme this week! My favorite of the latest phalanx of zombie novels is “World War Z” by Max Brooks
Written as an “oral history” of the zombie war, “World War Z” is a very entertaining and informative read (informative if you in fact believe zombies could take over the world).
Brooks manages to give the genre of the living dead a literate kick in the ass, which is more than I can say about the other stacks of zombie novels released in the past decade.
What type of music would zombies listen to if they were so inclined? Probably Rage Against the Machine’s self-titled debut album. I imagine that the brain feeding undead would enjoy Zach de la Rocha’s lyrical tributes to a world gone mad. I sure did back when I was a zombified teenager full of unjustified angst.
More musical savvy zombies might lean toward more sophisticated albums, such as Ween’s “GodWeenSatan” release, or perhaps Nine Inch Nail’s obscure release “Year Zero,” but they’re zombies, not snobs... give them a break.
LISTEN WATCH
Of all the many zombie movies out there, it’s hard to recommend just one, but here goes.
From the opening sequence full of bloody slow motion zombies attacking to the best cameo anyone has ever done in a movie ever, “Zombieland” takes the undead cake.
Featuring a neurotic Jesse Eisenberg (big surprise), a redneck hilarious Woody Harrelson (bigger surprise) and the unbelievably hot Emma Stone (well, no surprise there), “Zombieland” brings a lightness to the genre that films like “Shaun of the Dead” accomplished as well.
Ben Olson
Barbara Jean and Jack Klatt. Photo by Robert Meyers.
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.
The Farmin Building on the corner of Second Ave. and Cedar St. in Sandpoint. The building was built in 1909. It was the home of the Bonner County National Bank with the Crescent Pharmacy on the bottom left.
The same view today. C.M. Brewster Realty office occupies the bottom corner office, while Baxter’s Restaurant is on the left. The furthest left windows on the top floor is where you will find the Sandpoint Reader offices (can you see us waving?).
—
Week of the
CROSSWORD
ACROSS
without interest or significance; dull; insipid.
juvenile; immature; childish.
“The jejune novel nearly bored Harry into a coma, until he spilled his hot coffee in his lap.”
Corrections: Believe it or not, we couldn’t find a single typo in the last issue. But then again, we weren’t looking very closely, so go figure. 1. Slave
Winged
Not under
A ring-shaped surface
Ripped
Broad
Transliterate
Spray can
Ancient unit of
Decorative jugs
Money paid out
___-garde
Type of mushroom
Make a copy of a recording
Purges
Speedy
Not there
Female sib
Start
Not fluid
Self-centered people
Relative of a giraffe
Dawn goddess
A porch
Bad-mouth
Vengeful punishment
It comes from cows
Focusing glass
Area of South Africa
Type of sword
Scatters seeds
Wicked
Start over
Washes up
Be present at
A titled peer of the realm
Genus of macaws
Bluefin
Being
To scatter about
Composure
Bower
Bobbins
Angler’s basket
Clue
Solution on page 17 25. Hearing organs
17 in Roman numerals
Cushions or mats 28. Insect stage
Subject
Pee
Scarlet
Sandwich shop
Relating to urine
What we sleep on
Regulation (abbrev.) 39. Equestrians
Existence
Cease
Get cozy 45. Ellipses 46. A sturdy belaying pin
Drome
Large-flowered garden plant
Lairs 52. Nursemaid 53. A Freudian stage
Fully developed
Killed
Anagram of “Seek”
Estimated time of arrival
When I picked up the little dead mouse that my cat had killed, at first I felt sad. Then I felt hungry. I forget what happened after that.
