rts, e.ntecrt ain Arts ainmenr menr. bbluster and some news
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(wo)MAN compiled by
Susan Drinkard
on the street
Words from America’s Founders “Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth.” George Washington First President of the United States, Founder Mount Vernon, Virginia
“Real liberty is neither found in despotism or the extremes of democracy, but in moderate government.” Alexander Hamilton American statesman, Founder of the nation, first secretary of the U.S. Treasury, dueler Greenwich Village, NY “The Constitution only gives people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself.” Benjamin Franklin Founder, author, printer, politician, Freemason, postmaster, scientist, inventor, humorist Philadelphia, Pennsylvania “The purpose of separation of church and state is to keep forever from these shores the ceaseless strife that has soaked the soil of Europe with blood for centuries.” James Madison Fourth president of the U.S., Founder, statesman, lawyer, diplomat, philosopher Orange, Virginia “He that would make his own liberty secure, must guard even his enemy from oppression; for if he violates this duty, he establishes a precedent that will reach to himself.” Thomas Paine Founder, political activist, philosopher, political theorist and revolutionary New York City
DEAR READERS,
Happy Independence Day! We’re happy to deliver the Reader one day early this week so our staff can celebrate the holiday in style (translation: day drinking). Not to be a wet blanket, but there are a few important things to remember during this particular holiday. First, all fireworks are illegal in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest. That means if you’re going camping, leave the sparklers and bottle rockets at home. This is so important — especially as we see the days grow hotter and the forests drier. It’s been great not having to deal with forest fire smoke so far this season. Let’s keep it that way. Second, aerial fireworks are illegal unless you have a permit. Third, please take your time and be safe this long weekend — that means no drinking and driving, treat your neighbors with respect and enjoy what this holiday is all about: family, friends and a love for your country. Finally, I’d like to invite everyone to wish our editor Cameron Rasmusson of fourand-a-half years success in his future endeavors. It’s been an honor and a privilege to work with Cameron in this endeavor. I couldn’t have made it without you, buddy.
-Ben Olson, Publisher
READER 111 Cedar Street, Suite 9 Sandpoint, ID 83864 (208)265-9724
www.sandpointreader.com Publisher: Ben Olson ben@sandpointreader.com Editorial: Cameron Rasmusson cameron@sandpointreader.com Lyndsie Kiebert lyndsie@sandpointreader.com Zach Hagadone (emeritus) John Reuter (emeritus) Advertising: Jodi Berge Jodi@sandpointreader.com Contributing Artists: Ben Olson, Bill Borders Contributing Writers: Cameron Rasmusson, Ben Olson, Lyndsie Kiebert, Nick Gier, RISE, Brenden Bobby, Lorraine H. Marie, Marcia Pilgeram, Kathi Samuels, Gary Buck. Submit stories to: stories@sandpointreader.com Printed weekly at: Griffin Publishing Spokane, Wash. Subscription Price: $115 per year Web Content: Keokee The Sandpoint Reader is a weekly publication owned and operated by Ben Olson and Keokee. It is devoted to the arts, entertainment, politics and lifestyle in and around Sandpoint, Idaho. We hope to provide a quality alternative by offering honest, in-depth reporting that reflects the intelligence and interests of our diverse and growing community. The Reader is printed on recycled paper using soy-based ink. Leftover copies are collected and recycled weekly, or burned in massive bonfires to appease the gods of journalism. Free to all, limit two copies per person.
Sandpoint Reader letter policy: The Sandpoint Reader welcomes letters to the editor on all topics. Requirements: –No more than 400 words –Letters may not contain excessive profanity or libelous material. Please elevate the discussion. Letters will be edited to comply with the above requirements. Opinions expressed in these pages are those of the writers, not necessarily the publishers. Email letters to: letters@sandpointreader.com Check us out on the web at: www.sandpointreader.com Like us on Facebook. About the Cover
This week’s cover photo features Bernie, the patriotic pooch. Hope you all enjoy the holiday!
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NEWS
DNA evidence leads to cold-case arrest By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff Sandpoint police have arrested a suspect in a 30-year Sandpoint cold case thanks to the power of DNA evidence. Law enforcement arrested William R. Acosta at his Ponderay home after processed DNA evidence revealed a link to a 1987 murder. A grand jury empaneled on Thursday, June 27, issued an indictment against Acosta for the murder of Tammy Bristow. A case that went unsolved for decades, Bristow was found dead by Sandpoint police and first responders on Jan. 8, 1987. Responding to reports of an unconscious woman, the emergency crews found Bristow, 18, in her South Sandpoint apartment showing signs of death by strangulation. Police believed that Bristow was familiar with her attacker, as there was no evidence of forced entry. The crime may have been motivated by robbery, as police concluded that money was unac-
Tammy Bristow.
William R. Acosta
counted for at the scene. As the 1987 investigation unfolded and the crime scene evidence was processed, police identified a man named Fred Gauerke as a primary suspect. Gauerke was eventually charged with the murder. The prosecuting attorney at the time, Phil Robinson, filed a motion to dismiss the charges against Gauerke after the preliminary hearing until more evidence could be collected. According to KXLY News,
fiber evidence linked Gauerke to fibers in Bristow’s apartment. He also had other run-ins with the law, breaking into an apartment and holding a woman captive just days after the murder. Finally, in a bizarre twist still unexplained, he had Bristow’s Bible in his possession. Gauerke was the prime suspect in the case until DNA evidence led law enforcement in a different direction. It was DNA evidence that led to a break in the case. Like many
cold cases around the country solved decades later, it provided a definite link between the victim and the alleged perpetrator. In this case, it was material collected from Bristow’s fingernails. Police reopened the case in 2016 and sent the evidence for testing at the Idaho State Forensic Lab. Gauerke was the first to be tested against the evidence but produced no match. From there, law enforcement entered the sample into the CODIS system. The system landed on Acosta as a match. “Obviously, we feel DNA under the victim’s fingernails is strong forensic evidence,” Bonner County Prosecutor Louis Marshall told the Spokesman-Review. “Whenever you are dealing with a case like this, there are obviously some hurdles that we have to go through. Nineteen eighty-seven was a long time ago. We have to show chain of custody. We have to figure out who did what in terms of the evidence.” KXLY News reports that Acosta had a personal connection
to Bristow — she babysat the child of his girlfriend at the time. He ran afoul of the law in Arizona, with charges of aggravated assault against a police officer and vehicular homicide. In 1988, he was jailed for robbing a Sandpoint cab driver. And according to the city of Sandpoint, he was a local resident at the time of the murder. Acosta awaits his court proceedings in jail, held on a $1 million bond. The Bristow case is similar to dozens of other crimes around the country being solved thanks to DNA evidence. According to the National Institute of Justice, the research, development and evaluation agency of the U.S. Department of Justice, DNA evidence is a powerful tool to provide closure for families who have lived with uncertainty for decades. To that end, the institute provides grant funding to state and local governments for evidence processing.
City proposes moratorium on airport-area rezoning By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff For the past several months, the city has struggled to clarify its policy on residential development near Sandpoint Airport. An upcoming public meeting is intended to shed some light on what has proven to be a murky issue. Scheduled for July 17, the meeting will gather public input the city’s proposal to set a temporary moratorium on rezoning near the airport. While some see development near the airport as a public safety issue, others believe it’s one of Sandpoint’s few remaining locations for residential development. The Sandpoint City Council tackled the issue in its council meeting two weeks ago, when they approved a pending rezoning request for a portion of a property near the airport. The portion 4 /
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rezoned sits outside the Lateral Safety Zone, a restricted area because of its proximity to the runway. As the council deliberated the request over the past months, members were concerned they were flying blind without any guiding policy in the Sandpoint Comprehensive Plan. According to Sandpoint City Administrator Jennifer Stapleton, the proposed moratorium on airport-area rezoning will give the City Council time to develop airport-related changes to the Comprehensive Plan. “Through the Comprehensive Plan update involving community and stakeholder input, the City will also consider adopting best practices to ensure people living or working nearby are not exposed to unacceptable levels of noise or air traffic-related hazards, and to preserve economic viability,” Stapleton wrote in a press release.
A small plane crash in 2008 at Sandpoint Airport, with Boyer Ave. passing to the right. Courtesy City of Sandpoint. Noise and safety are two of the biggest concerns about residential development near the airport. According to a report prepared by Sandpoint Planning and Community Development Director Aaron Qualls, noise near airports is often louder than is considered comfortable for a residential neigh-
borhood. There’s also the risk of airplane crashes. Over the past several years, there have been a handful of accidents at Sandpoint Airport, many of them involving deer running across the runway. On the other hand, the proposed moratorium leaves some property owners in limbo. Local
resident Maureen Tillberg said she and her husband have gone through every legal step to obtain their rezoning, a process costing them significant time and money. In late spring, Mayor Shelby Rogstad vetoed their request, citing airport safety concerns. In a letter to the city, Tillberg attorney Douglas Marfice said the veto violated state and local law governing city procedure. The city has a responsibility to deliver on requests within a set time period, she added, and a moratorium only worsens their situation. “This is once again an attempt to block our legally-obtained zone change,” she said. “It appears they are doing everything in their power to block our zone change. We are going to suggest there be a one year moratorium on any expansion of the airport.”
NEWS
Albertson to chart new era for LPOSD By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff No one knows Lake Pend Oreille School District quite like Tom Albertson. The local educator has worked local classrooms for years, rising through the ranks from teacher to assistant principal to high school principal. With a vote by the school board last month, he takes yet another step up this month to district superintendent. Albertson is excited to serve local schools in a new position, and while there’s much work to be done, he sees a bright future ahead. “I already know the great things Sandpoint High School students and staff can do,” he said. “Now I’m excited to work with all teachers and students throughout the district.” Albertson was one of three finalists in the running for the job after previous superintendent
Tom Albertson. Shawn Woodward was hired as Mead School District superintendent in Washington State. By happenstance, the position opening was well timed. Albertson had recently earned an advanced degree from the University of Idaho as an educational specialist, which qualified him for the job. It built upon
the masters in educational leadership he earned a decade prior. “I consider myself to be a lifelong learner,” he said. A firm specialized in educational leadership helped LPOSD officials narrow down the applicants to a final three. When Albertson made the cut, he began interviewing with the people holding the final stamp of approval: the LPOSD community. After a long day of questions from the public, the school board and stakeholder groups, he was offered the job. Albertson had one advantage against fellow finalists Paul Peterson and Dr. Paula Vincent: he already knew the school district from the inside out. “It certainly helped,” he said. “I’m familiar with the success we’ve had in Lake Pend Oreille School District, but as I say, we’re always on a path of continuous improvement.” To that end, he intends to focus on the five priorities outlined by
Keeping the fire out of fireworks
Aerial fireworks are illegal in Idaho without a permit, and fireworks of all kinds are banned from NF lands
By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff In 35 years working in fire services, Selkirk Fire Chief Ron Stocking has only had two Fourth of July holidays off. The nature of the day’s celebration means safety personnel are responding to calls regarding anything from firework-induced skin burns to full-blown wildfires. “You get the whole gamut because everybody is celebrating our country’s independence, and they’re doing it with alcohol and fire,” Stocking said. While fireworks available at stands across the county are OK for personal use, Stocking said it’s important for everyone to remember — especially those coming from out of state to celebrate — that aerial fireworks are illegal in Idaho unless an official permit is obtained from the local fire district. Stocking said the only aerial fireworks he permits in Sandpoint are the ones launched at dusk from
City Beach as part of the Sandpoint Lions Club Independence Day Community Celebration. “(Aerial fireworks) are the ones that scare us,” he said. “Those start fires in the forest and injure people when they’re improperly ignited or have a malfunction. They impact peoples’ lives forever.” Stocking said that while the smaller, localized fireworks are legal, he suggests keeping a bucket of water and hose nearby. Once a firework is spent, soak it in the bucket prior to throwing it away in order to avoid a trash fire. In a statement Monday, U.S. Forest Service officials reminded forest recreators that “fireworks, and the possession of fireworks, are prohibited on National Forest System lands, regardless of weather conditions or holidays.” This is not limited to aerial fireworks — all firework devices, even those purchased at licensed firework dealers, are not permitted in National Forests.
USFS shared some additional pointers “for a fun and safe recreational experience this Fourth of July.” First, public land campers are expected to douse campfires with water, stir and then check the embers with a bare hand. Fires must be dead out when left unattended or leaving the campsite altogether. The statement reminded campers that food should be stored in vehicles or bear-safe containers, which are available on the Bonners Ferry, Priest Lake and portions of the Sandpoint Ranger Districts. Recreators on motorized equipment are expected to stick to motorized trails, and everyone using public lands over the holiday weekend should plan to pack out all garbage they produce. While USFS offices will be closed Thursday for the holiday, they will be open on Wednesday, July 3 and Friday, July 5. For more information on the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, contact the Sandpoint Ranger District at (208) 263-5111.
the school board: ensuring access to academic success for all students, engaging communities, utilizing resources efficiently and effectively recruiting effective personnel and establishing safe, effective learning environments. The final objective — safe learning environments — presents the thorniest challenge for the school district. Several LPOSD facilities are old, creaky buildings near or beyond the end of their expected lifespan. Refurbishing or replacing those facilities will take careful planning and community involvement, Albertson said. “There’s already been quite a bit of work done,” he said. “Instead of starting from scratch, we need to pick up where we left off.” That means reconvening the 25-person facilities committee, for a start. The other major factor is getting into the community and building trust. Albertson said he intends to make that a focus of his leadership style. In the meantime, he’s working with other leaders like North Idaho’s state lawmakers to forge a path into the future. Albertson believes there’s plenty of untapped potential for education in Lake Pend Oreille School District, and he looks forward to working with the entire community to realize it.
Pet license plates and other Idaho news
7B By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff Looking to add a little flair to the car? Good news: Pet-friendly plates are here in Idaho. Thanks to a new law signed by Gov. Brad Little, the plates are ready for circulation. They cost a little more — $35 for the first purchase and $25 for subsequent registrations — but that extra money goes to help spay and neuter pets in low-income households. The fees go to a foundation administered by the Idaho Humane Society. Drivers rocking the new plates will want to take care to mind Idaho’s “move over” law, which went into effect this week. That means drivers must slow down and pull over to the side of the road for emergency vehicles with flashing lights. It also applies to tow trucks, Idaho Transportation Department workers. Passed during this year’s legislative session, the new law is now in effect with the new fiscal year.
BCSO warns against phone scams By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff The Bonner County Sheriff’s Office released a warning Monday that fake jury duty and arrest warrant phone calls are making their way around Idaho, and tips to avoid being scammed. “Bonner County deputies will never call and threaten to arrest you because you have an outstanding civil judgment or missed jury duty,” Monday’s statement reads. “Deputies will never ask you to place funds for payment on a pre-paid credit card to ‘cancel the arrest warrant’ for the fake civil judgment or warrant.” BCSO reports scammers will often ask victims to purchase
a pre-paid credit card, such as a Green Dot card, put money on the card then call another number with the card’s information. Another sure way to know it’s a scam, BSCO said, is that the caller asks for money to be transferred electronically. According to the sheriff’s office, these scam calls are often made with burner cell phones, making them hard to trace. BCSO reports the Better Business Bureau is aware of the scam and is advising people against giving out personal information during unsolicited phone calls. Anyone who receives one of these scam calls should report it to BCSO dispatch at 208-265-5525. July 3, 2019 /
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COMMUNITY
Freedom 5K Fun Run kicks off Clark Fork Fourth of July festivities By Jeff Emmer Reader Contributor Bouquets: GUEST SUBMISSION: • Bouquets to ShakaPaw and Jennifer Ferguson, owner for hosting my seventh pawsome birthday party. It was such fun meeting all of you, and the treats were barkin’ good! Can’t wait to see who hunts down the most Reader dog-friendly businesses. Go fetch your $25 gift certificate! All healthy friendships start with ShakaPaw and good food! -Sent by Drake the Dog Barbs • I used to think it was cool that Ben Stein “lived” in Sandpoint. Then I thought about it a little bit. For starters, swooping into Sandpoint once or twice a year doesn’t make you a resident. But more importantly, if you look past the endearing character he played in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” and look at some of Ben Stein’s politics and statements, they aren’t exactly something to be proud of. Take his 2008 documentary “Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed” where Stein contends that there is a conspiracy in academic circles to oppress and exclude people who believe in intelligent design. The film is a critical mess, with Rotten Tomatoes giving it an 11% on their “Tomatometer,” and the New York Times calling it “a conspiracy-theory rant masquerading as investigative inquiry” and “an unprincipled propaganda piece that insults believers and nonbelievers alike.” The film unbelievably portrays the scientific theory of evolution as a contributor to communism, fascism, eugenics and in one odious section of the film, Stein and the filmmakers attempt to blame the Nazi atrocities in the Holocaust on “Darwinism.” It was truly shameless. While Stein tries to come across as an eager narrator seeking the truth, the film comes off as a ham-fisted propaganda effort to discredit science, all while offering no data or science to support intelligent design. Filled with right wing buzzwords and imagery that bluntly compares anyone who follows the scientific principles of intelligent design as freedom-hating leftists, this documentary was truly 90 minutes of nonsense that ruined my opinion of Ben Stein permanently. I’ll find other things to do instead of watching Stein speak at our beloved Panida Theater tonight. 6 /
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The Freedom 5K Fun Run (formerly Haden’s Heart) begins a day full of classic Fourth of July events in Clark Fork, Idaho. Featuring a new name and an even more scenic course, the 5K event is put on by The Filling Station Youth Center. The Fun Run generates college scholarships for Clark Fork High School graduates as well as funds to operate the youth center. This family-oriented event starts at the youth center at 1st and Main at 7 a.m. and winds its way up the scenic Lightning Creek valley providing some
beautiful vistas over the creek. Participants will be shuttled back to The Filling Station where refreshments and showers will be available to get you prepared for the rest of a fun-filled day.
Chamber welcomes Utara Brewing Co.
By Reader Staff Summer is here, and the Beer Garden is open! The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce welcomed Utara Brewing Co. with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Friday, June 21. After celebrating one year in business, Utara Brewing Co. owners David Kosiba and Christina Stecher have settled into a routine in the old Lightning Lube building on Pine Street. The renovation was exciting to watch as onlookers and employees of Greasy Fingers Bikes & Repair anxiously awaited the opening of their neighbor. They have gathered a collection of regulars and welcome tourists for their original, in house brews and curry cuisine. They release a new beer every week, they organize fun events like beer bus tours, and a full lineup of original music throughout the summer through
Chamber Board Members, Ambassadors and Patrons came out to support Utara owners David Kosiba & Christina Stecher at a Ribbon Cutting on June 21.
Utara After Hours and Full Circle Productions. With the opening of their beer garden and the ability to open the garage doors at the front and rear of the building, Utara has an open and welcoming feel. The smoke-free beer garden has shaded seating and easy access to the bar. “Proudly serving the Sandpoint Community the finest, hand-crafted beers for one year! Here’s to you, our loyal customers!” said David Kosiba. Please join the Chamber in welcoming Utara Brewing Company. You can visit them at 214 Pine St. in Sandpoint. Their summer hours are Mon.-Thurs. from 2-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. from 12-9 p.m., Sunday 12-6 p.m. Find them on Facebook and on utarabrewing.com
A custom T-shirt and plenty of smiles are included. Discounts for students and family members participating with students encourage families to run or walk together. Register early at filling-
Courtesy photo. stationyouth.com to guarantee T-shirt availability. Registration is also available at the youth center before the race.
Golf and disc golf tourneys in CF July 5 By Reader Staff The Wampus Cat Golf Course will be the place to be this Friday, as Clark Fork High School hosts a day of golf and disc golf to benefit various school activities. The day kicks off with a ninehole golf tournament at 9 a.m. and continues with a disc golf tournament at 1 p.m. Registration and check-in for each tournament
is 8 a.m. and noon, respectively. There’s a $20 per person suggested donation for each event. The Wampus Cat Golf Course is located behind the school’s football field. If driving east through town, turn left onto Stephen Street and drive about two blocks to the end of the pavement. For more information, call 208-266-1365.
THE READER IN THE GALAPAGOS
Ron Mamajek and Denise Zembryki of Sagle are seen here with one of the iconic tortoises who call the Galapagos Islands home. This tortoise is well over 100 years old. Mark and Denise said they also had numerous encounters with marine iguanas, snorkeled with sea lions and enjoyed the close company of the famous Darwin finches and blue-footed boobies.
PERSPECTIVES
Women of the Revolution: Soldiers, Spies, and Resisters By Nick Gier Reader Staff
“We possess a spirit that will not be conquered. Should we be attacked, you will find a race of Amazons in America.” —Abigail Adams to John Adams (9/20/1776) For some time now I have stopped using the phrase “Founding Fathers” and replaced it with “Founders” or “Founding Thinkers.” During the birth of our nation, women’s thought was as good as the men’s: they were writing books and poetry, advising their sometimes obtuse political husbands, running farms and businesses. During the Revolutionary
A painting of the moment Mary Hays took over firing her husband’s cannon at the Battle of Monmouth. Courtesy photo. War, women were also soldiers, spies and resisters. Today there is still is much debate about women in combat, but historians have found a number of women who were in the thick of fighting the British. As was the custom in those times, wives and children followed the troops from battle to battle. In addition to their domestic duties, American women routinely cleaned and loaded muskets and artillery pieces. On June 28, 1778, during the Battle of Monmouth, Mary Hays, even though much of her skirt had been shot off by a cannon ball, took over the firing of her wounded husband’s artillery piece. After a long struggle for vindication, the state of Pennsylvania eventually gave Hays a military pension of $40 per year. After her husband was killed at Fort Washington, Margaret Corbin took over his cannon, and, as journalist and historian Cokie Roberts describes it, “fought bravely, sustaining three gunshot wounds, until the British took over the post.” The Daughters of the American Revolution were successful in having Corbin reburied at West Point, the only Revolutionary War veteran to have attained that honor. Nancy Hart, known by her neighbors as the “Iron Lady,” lived in the Georgian backcountry where she was known not only as a good farmer, but also as an herbalist and a sharp shooter. One day six Redcoats came to her door and demanded that they be fed. Hart obliged, and they soon were stuffing themselves and getting drunk. At the end of the meal, the Brits discovered that Hart had locked up their muskets, but kept three “cocked and loaded”
ready at hand. When two of them lunged at her, she shot them dead. She held the rest at gun point, and when her husband came home, they decided that the remaining four should be hanged rather than shot. South Carolinian Katie Barry was a resourceful woman who knew the Indian trails in her area very well. She alerted the local militia to the coming of the British, and this intelligence was crucial to a rebel victory at the Battle of Cowpens in 1781. She rode on horseback from farm to farm warning her neighbors of the British advance. Lydia Darragh was a Philadelphia mortician, and she followed British troop movements through the city. She devised a code by which she was able to send messages to General Washington in Valley Forge. When the Red Coats commandeered her home, she insisted on staying there with her children. One night she heard plans of an attack on Washington, and her intelligence was received just in time to prevent a disaster. When some British generals dropped by the home of Quaker Robert Murray, his wife, knowing that General Putnam’s forces were in retreat from New York, entertained the Brits long into the night. This ploy gave Putnam just enough time to avoid a fatal battle against 8,000 Red Coats. Writing in his journal, Putnam’s surgeon remarked: “It has since become almost a common saying among our
Laughing Matter
officers that Mrs. Murray saved this part of the American army.” The most amazing story I found was that of Deborah Sampson. Going by the name of Robert Shirtliff, Sampson, described as a person with angular features, disguised herself as a man and joined the 4th Massachusetts Regiment of Continental Army. Taller than the average man, Sampson qualified for a Light Infantry Company, whose job it was, as one source explained, “to provide rapid flank coverage for advancing regiments, as well as rearguard and forward reconnaissance duties for units on the move.” During her first battle near Tarrytown, New York, she suffered a head wound and took two musket balls to a thigh. She received treatment for the head wound but refused the surgeon’s offer to operate on her thigh, fearing that her gender would be discovered. She removed one bullet with her knife, but the second one remained embedded deep in her thigh for the rest of her life. As we celebrate Independence Day, let’s remember to toast the brave ladies of the Revolution. Nick Gier of Moscow taught religion and philosophy at the University of Idaho for 31 years. Read his article on religion and the founding thinkers at webpages. uidaho.edu/ngier/foundfathers.htm. Email him at ngier006@gmail.com.
By Bill Borders
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Mad about Science:
Brought to you by:
carnivorous plants By Brenden Bobby Reader Columnist You were probably expecting something freedom- or barbecuerelated, huh? If you’ve learned anything about this article by now, it’s that I am completely oblivious to overarching themes and societal norms! Most plants pull nutrients out of the ground with their roots. At one point or another, most of the stuff that plants eat was meat or other plants decayed over an immense period of time. Carnivorous plants cut right to the chase, saying:”Forget that, get in my belly!” Plants like the famous Venus flytrap snap insects up in their “jaws” and digest them whole like the Sarlacc from “Return of the Jedi”. These are freakishly intelligent evolutions with shockingly simple designs. The Venus flytrap has specially adapted leaves lined with something called trigger hairs, which are exactly what they sound like. The intelligent evolution here is that prodding one trigger hair won’t snap the leaves closed, but
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touching more than one within a few seconds of each other will. These plants developed this way so that only something moving around could trigger them, but not things like rogue twigs or bits of pollen. That way, the plant doesn’t waste energy trying to eat things that won’t give it nutrients for growth. Venus flytraps aren’t the only carnivorous plants in the world, nor is their method the only one for consuming the flesh of unwitting insects. Pitcher plants come in a staggering array of sizes, shapes and colors, but share a key trapping skill used by early hominid hunters: Pitfall traps. Insects would crawl or land on the top leaf of a pitcher plant, which would drop downward to send the insect into the pitcher, which is lined with mucus and digestive juices. Who needs teeth when you can melt your prey? Some orchids have also adapted this unique ability, including my favorite: The hammer orchid, Drakaea, which tricks insects into trying to mate with its bug-shaped flower, only to body-slam them into its pitcher and coat it with pollen. Yeah, brotherrrrr! Just when you thought it couldn’t get any weirder, bladderworts float into the picture. Bladderwort is an aquatic plant equipped with small air bladders that create a vacuum by displacing water with air from the bladder, which sucks tiny marine invertebrates in to be devoured. Bladderwort doesn’t have any roots, but some of its terrestrial relatives have been seen shooting roots into waterlogged soil that acts strictly as an anchor, keeping it from floating away somewhere away from its food source. Diabolical! Weird as that may be, there are even weirder, far more gooey plants ready
to relieve us of our arthropodic woes. Sundews are a type of plant with a sticky mucus slathered across its leaves. Insects land on the leaves and get stuck (just like on the strips of flypaper we buy at the store). Mucus glands in the leaves then start to produce digestive enzymes that will proceed to devour the insect. Plants like these adapted to devour insects because their soil has very few nutrients, so they needed a supplement from somewhere else. How plants managed to figure that out is beyond me, but the wonders of hundreds of millions of years of evolution never ceases to amaze me. Terrestrial animals use sight and smell to understand their environment and then select mates to carry on their genetic lineage, picking mates with attractive qualities for that specific environment (like fish selecting other fish with the largest fins in an area with heavy currents). Plants don’t have vision, and they can’t hear things, yet they somehow know exactly what they need to excel in their environment. Cells are weird. You ever wonder how many cells you leave on a doorknob every time you hit the latrine? A conversation for another day! Because of their weirdness and their undeniable hunger for anthropoidal flesh, carnivorous plants have made a resurgence for home botanists and quirky weirdos like myself. When given the option between a pet plant that eats the flesh of the living and a non-recyclable strip of sticky flypaper that will end up in the ocean, I’ll always take the thing that I can compost later. What about during the winter when the bugs disappear? Lucky for us, we live in an age of worldwide globalization, where crickets or mealworms bred in Mexico can be shipped overnight to your doorstep. Don’t
worry about neighborly judgment; getting a box of crickets isn’t that weird. Anyone that owns any type of reptile does it. Just don’t leave the box open, or you’ll be fishing dead crickets out from behind your toaster for months. If you want more information
on carnivorous plants, consult your local librarian or the digital catalog. It wouldn’t surprise me to find several titles on raising plants like this, and who knows? Maybe flesh-eating botany could be the new career path you never knew you wanted.
Random Corner th of July?
ur Don’t know much about the Fo • According to author Kenneth C. Davis, July 2 is the real day of independence, but it’s celebrated on the fourth because that’s when congress accepted Jefferson’s declaration. • Only two men signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 -- John Hancock and Charles Thompson. • Several countries have used the Declaration of Independence as a beacon in their own struggles for freedom. These countries include France, Greece, Poland, Russia and many countries in South America.
We can help!
• Benjamin Franklin proposed the turkey as the national bird but was overruled by John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, who recommended the bald eagle. • In 1776, there were 2.5 million people living in the new nation. Today the population of the U.S. is 327.2 million. • Fireworks are part of the tradition of celebrating this national holiday. The U.S. imported $227.3 million worth of fireworks from China in 2012. • In 2012, the vast majority of imported U.S. flags ($3.6 million) was made in China.
• The only two signers of the Declaration of Independence who • Every Fourth of July, the later served as President of the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia is United States were John Adams and tapped (not actually rung) 13 Thomas Jefferson. times in honor of the original 13 • The first Independence Day colonies. celebration took place in Philadel• Thomas Jefferson drafted phia on July 8, 1776. This was also the Declaration of Independence the day that the Declaration of Inon a “laptop,” which was a writing dependence was first read in public desk that could fit on one’s lap. after people were summoned by the ringing of the Liberty Bell.
PERSPECTIVES
Summer: When new high school graduates need our help the most By Members of the Beyond High School workgroup of RISE Data gathered from our annual Senior Exit Survey have made clear that most area high school students intend to continue education or training in the fall after they leave high school. The summer after graduation is when these intentions are tested by reality. Sadly, for hundreds, the hurdles they face in these next few months will prevent them from “going on.” We, the educators, employers and agency representatives on the Beyond High School working group of the nonprofit RISE, offer two suggestions to those who wish to help students achieve their training or education goals and help them avoid “summer melt.” First, recognize the signs. During the summer, new graduates in danger of derailed postsecondary plans may begin to question whether they are “college material.” Daunting paperwork and overwhelming decisions, not their ability to succeed at the postsecondary level, are likely culprits. Faced with this and leaving family, friends and everything familiar, graduates may begin to say
versions of the following, “It would just be easier to stay and work.” “My family needs me here.” “College is too expensive.” “I can make good money without going.” “I don’t know what to study.” “I just need a break.” There are supports already available to help students work through these doubts and fears. If, after they access these supports, they decide continued training or education is not for them, for now, we say celebrate the path they select. No student should feel forced into a future they did not choose. Second, have them connect with just one high school counselor or postsecondary advisor. The summer after high school is one of the loneliest points in many recent graduates’ lives. We have discovered that encouraging them to reach out to just one person who can answer their questions is the most important action they can take. In Idaho, postsecondary admissions representatives and first-year student advisors are advocates for all students, even those who may not plan to attend their institution. If a student has questions or concerns, they need to identify and meet with just one of these people. Any postsecondary admissions office can point the way. Another good
option is to have the student call their high school to ask if a staff member has been designated to help recent graduates during the summer. More help is on the way. While there is currently no statewide system for helping students plan for life after high school, noteworthy individual and collective efforts are underway. The Idaho State Board of Education, the Workforce Development Council, Idaho Business for Education, RISE and government and nonprofit agencies all have “summer melt” on their radar. State Senator Grant Burgoyne’s Idaho Promise legislation under development for introduction in 2020, is just one of many initiatives intended to provide additional mentoring and financial supports for students. While we await larger-scale solutions, those of us in positions to help can take small steps to help new graduates take their next big step. RISE, the Treasure Valley’s Education Partnership, works to advance a worldclass education system in the Treasure Valley, southern Idaho. Partners engage in activities to support the cradle to career continuum, from early childhood through career development.
Should we consider fireworks during winter only? By Ben Olson Reader Staff
When I was a kid, there was nothing more fun than lighting off fireworks in front of the house on the Fourth of July. The smell of sulfur and barbecue always seemed to go together perfectly. Then I grew up. As the years go by, I realize more and more that fireworks are sort of ridiculous. I’m not referring to the awesome shows that organizations like the Sandpoint Lions Club hosts every year to celebrate our independence. I’m talking about consumer fireworks — the ones you buy at those stalls and, for the adventurous, the heavy hitters folks purchase within the Coeur d’Alene Reservation (even though most are illegal to use off the reservation).
Is it really necessary that we light off these handheld explosives every year right around the time when our forests get tinder dry? With the last half-dozen summers being plagued with forest fire smoke here in North Idaho, I think it’s high time we rethink our timing on fireworks. When the Samowen Fire District announced last week they were banning fireworks within the district for the entire season, my first thought was, “Good.” In a perfect world, people would light fireworks in a safe manner, pick up the litter afterward and keep the forests safe from human idiocy. But this is far from a perfect world. And yes, humans are idiots. I’m officially of the mindset that we should just ban the damn things outright during the summer months. If you want to light off fireworks, wait until the snow flies. Then light them off to your heart’s
content. It’s nearly impossible to start a forest fire when there’s three feet of snow on the ground. July 3, 2019 /
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COMMUNITY
Schweizer to host ‘Race the Wolf’ trail run
SkyRunner USA Series offers first event in North Idaho
By Reader Staff
Schweitzer Mountain Resort is gearing up to become part of the nation’s most challenging trail-running series, SkyRunner USA Series, with “Race the Wolf” on July 6 and 7. This trail running race series consists of 10 world class events designed to inspire athletes looking to tackle ultra-running challenges in exceptional mountain locations. The race at Schweitzer consists of three different courses consisting of a 52K, 25K and an 8K route. The 25K and 52K routes boast steep climbs, fun single track and impressive views from every step. Race Director Ken Eldore has provided quality race experiences through Priest Lake Multisport. “Getting to experience the success of others meeting their next race day challenge drives me to keep offering our best,” Eldore said. “Race the Wolf is exactly that. The combination of Schweitzer Mountain Resort, the rugged terrain of the Selkirk Mountains, and the SkyRunner USA Series offers a truly world class trail race.” Mike Ehredt, nationally recognized ultra-runner and coach, has also been instrumental in bringing this race to North Idaho. “As part of the SkyRunner USA Series, we have a higher level of adventure and difficulty in our 25K and 52K that requires racers to give their utmost
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and best effort,” Ehredt said. For example, the 52K course will have approximately 9,200 feet of vertical gain built into the course. “This is such a fabulous opportunity for us to showcase our terrain,” said Schweitzer Marketing Manager Dig Chrismer. “The longer races are really unique and challenging, but runners who are more interested in a shorter or less demanding adventure will still get an incredible experience with the 8K route. Our local athletes are ready for this kind of endeavor and Schweitzer is a perfect fit for this type of race.” Race registration is still available until July 4, 2019, through SkyRunner’s “Race the Wolf” website, racethewolf. com/home. On-site lodging options
are also available at Schweitzer for the weekend in both the Selkirk and White Pine Lodges. Visit www.schweitzer.com for more details.
Runners experience a dynamite view from atop Schweitzer Mountain. Courtesy photo.
FOURTH of JULY
Happy Fourth from the north By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff
There’s no shortage of ways to pay homage to the USA’s birthday in our corner of North Idaho. From parades to fireworks displays to pancake breakfasts, here’s the Fourth of July 2019 lowdown in Bonner County.
Sandpoint
The Sandpoint Lions Club sponsors Sandpoint’s Independence Day Community Celebration starting at 9 a.m. with a free Children’s Parade making its way through downtown Sandpoint, followed by the Grand Parade at 10 a.m. Festivities then move to City Beach, where Lions Club members will sell raffle tickets — the proceeds from which pay for the holiday’s activities — from noon to dusk. Dusk brings a fireworks show at the beach.
Clark Fork
Clark Fork’s Old Fashioned Fourth, hosted by the Clark Fork Rod & Gun Club, kicks off with the Filling Station’s Freedom 5K Fun Run at 7 a.m. (read more on page 6) and continues with a pancake breakfast at the Clark Fork Fire Station 7:30-9 a.m. There’s a VFW flag raising at Clark Fork High School at 8:30 a.m. and the community parade starts at 9:30 a.m. Once the parade wraps up, the CFHS Booster Club will serve burgers and hot dogs on the school lawn and kids of all ages can participate in
foot races. Around 1 p.m. festivities move to the ball field (north of town on 10th Street) where there will be an airplane drop of certificates and freebies from local businesses, turtle races and watermelon-eating contests. The pole climbing and log sawing contests commence at 3 p.m. The day culminates with a fireworks display at the ball field.
Hope
The Hope fireworks display is launched from a barge at Kramer Marina and is visible from the entirety of Ellisport Bay on Lake Pend Oreille. Spectators simply need to find a piece of shoreline and wait for the sun to fully set.
Priest Lake
Elkins Resort on Priest Lake, located at 404 Elkins Road in Nordman, will host a fireworks display Thursday after dusk.
Bayview
The Fourth of July kicks off a weekend of events in Bayview, known as Bayview Daze. Beginning with a flag raising at 8 a.m. on Thursday, the Bayview Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual Red, White and Blue Pancake Feed at the Bayview Community Center (20298 E Perimeter Road) until 10:30 a.m. A suggested donation for the breakfast is $8, and the pancakes are all-you-
can-eat. Bayview Marina hosts a “Kraft Fair” Friday, July 5, and the Chamber of Commerce hosts the Bayview Daze Street Parade on Saturday, July 6 at 11 a.m. Also on Saturday is a lighted boat parade at 9 p.m. and a fireworks show at dusk. The town fills up, so the Bayview Chamber advises: “Plan on taking your time exiting Bayview!” A special thanks to Sophia Aldous of the Gem State Miner for her help compiling this list.
Priest River
The annual Priest River fireworks show is happening at Bonner Park West (500 Railroad Ave.) around dusk on the Fourth of July. Attendees should bring blankets or chairs to sit on.
Laclede
The Laclede Community Center hosts a Fourth of July pancake breakfast 8-10 a.m. Cost is $5 per adult and $2.50 per child under 12. The town then hosts a community parade starting at 11 a.m. at the community center, and anyone is welcome to participate.
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Wind Down Wednesday 5-8pm @ 219 Lounge With live music by blues man Truck Mills and guest musician Denis Zwang
Magic Wednesday 6-8pm @ Jalapeño’s Enjoy close-up magic shows by Star Alexander right at your table
Fourth of July festivities @ Downtown Sandpoint The Sandpoint Lions Club brings you a day of Independence Day fun, with a Kid’s Parade at 9am, the Grand Parade at 10am, and fireworks at dusk at the City Beach
Sandpoint Farmers’ Market 3-5:30pm @ Farmin Park Locally grown produce, starts, crafts and more! Live music by Ian Gaddie
Live Music w/ Harold’s IGA 9pm-12am @ 219 Lounge Join indie-rock trio Harold’s IGA for a July 4th show at the Niner. Originals and covers to shake that money maker to. Late night Korean BBQ also
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Live Music w/ J 11am-2pm @ Mi A Fourth of July and her piano are the lawn for the partying for the h
Live Music w/ C 7-9pm @ Match Classic acoustic Live Music w/ M 9pm-cl @ A&P’s Live Music w/ Far Out West Back patio classi 9pm-12am @ 219 Lounge Pils Beats in Co Groovy beats and rootsy vo8:30pm-1am @ T cals from this Portland band Electronic music Live Music w/ Samantha Carston R Mugs and Music w/ Oak St. Connection 5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority @ 6-8pm @ Laughing Dog Brewery Live Music w/ Steve Neff & Jesse Ahmann Sam’s uke and vocal talents are top notch N 5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Live Music w/ Truck Mills & Carl Rey. D Guitar and cello, from Bach to blues 6:30-9:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall 9 Live Music w/ Aaron Golay Band Excellent blues guitar and harp duo Lakesid Live Music w/ Ken Mayginnes 9pm-12am @ 219 Lounge 6-9pm @ 6-8:30pm @ Chop Bar & Grill Soulful rock and upbeat pop
Live Music w/ Red Blend 5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery An artistic blend of soul, pop, blues and classic covers
Karaoke Night 8pm-cl @ Tervan
Sandpoint Chess Club 9am @ Evans Brothers Coffee Meets every Sunday at 9am
Live Music w/ Devon Wade 6:30-9:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall First Fridays with Sandpoint country! Live Music w/ Mike & Shanna Thompson 5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority Fun Sandpoint duo extraordinaire! Wes Urbaniak & the Mountain Folk 7:30pm @ Di Luna’s Cafe Great band traveling from Montana
Final World Cup Wat 8-10am @ Matchwood Come down and suppo Bonner County Garden Tour • 10am-5pm @ various A self-guided tour includes eight of the area’s most intere inspirational gardens. Tickets available online at BCGard
Live Music w/ Ken Mayginnes 5-7:30pm @ Matchwood Brewing
Rock n’ Roll Bingo Monday Night Blues Jam w/ Truck Mills Disc 7:30pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Outdoor Experience 6-8pm @ Tervan 7-11: Lifetree Cafe Monday Night Run Spen 2pm @ Jalepeño’s Mexican Restaurant 6pm @ Outdoor Experience being An hour of conversation and stories. This A chill, three-mile(ish) group run week’s topic: “When He Becomes She” with optional beverages to follow Paint and Sip w/ Holly Wa Night-Out Karaoke Djembe class 9pm @ 219 Lounge 5:45-7:30pm @ Music 5:30-8:30pm @ Pend d’Ore Join DJ Pat for a night of singing, Conservatory of Sandpoint Paint a summer sunrise scene or just come to drink and listen Join Ali Thomas for this include supplies and a select Trivia Night in Hope Trivia Night djembe (drum) class 4-6pm @ Davis Grocery 7pm @ MickDuff’s Wind Down Wednesday Wednesdays w/ Benny Sandpoint Farmers’ Market t h 5-8pm @ 219 Lounge 5-7:30pm @ Connie’s 3-5:30pm @ Farmin Park u With live music by blues Feat. Ron Criscione r Full Draw Film Festival s man Truck Mills and Live Music w/ Tennis 7pm @ Panida Theater d guest musician Andrew 6:30pm @ The Fat Pig Best outdoor and bow a y Browne Dance dance dance hunting films on earth
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Wednesdays with Benny 5-7:30pm @ Connie’s Lounge Join Benny Baker for this weekly music event, featuring this week’s guest Kyle Swaffard.
Music w/ Jennifer Stoehner 2pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall th of July backyard party! Jennifer r piano are excited to set up shop on wn for the Fourth and get everybody g for the holiday. Free
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
Ben Stein’s Day Off 7pm @ The Panida Theater An evening and a lifetime of stories with actor, author, speechwriter and lawyer Ben Stein. This will be a televised show and seating is limited. $20 tickets
Turquaz in Concert 8:30pm-1am @ The Hive Get your groove on at The Hive with Turkuaz after the fireworks! $25/advance, $30 at the door. Come early and watch the fireworks from the balcony
Live Music w/ Jake Robin 7-10pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Soulful songs by Jake Robin Live Music w/ Brown Salmon 6:30pm @ The Fat Pig Sam and Drew!
DJ Skwish 9pm-cl @ A&P’s Alzheimer’s Support Group 1-2pm @ Sandpoint Senior Center For families, caregivers and friends of those with Alzheimer’s. Free respite care available at the Day Break Center
Live Music w/ Kevin Dorin • 8-10pm @ The Back Door Bar Music w/ Chad Patrick @ Matchwood Brewing Co. Tailgate Sale Karaoke Night c acoustic music on the patio 8am-1pm @ Memorial Community Ctr 8pm-cl @ Tervan Music w/ Miah Kohal Band A tailgate sale in Hope! Lots of vendors, Sandpoint Farmers’ Market @ A&P’s Bar and Grill a bake sale and a BBQ. (208) 264-5481 9am-1pm @ Farmin Park atio classic outlaw country Yoga on Tap Music by Brendan Kelty Trio ats in Concert (FREE) 10:45am @ Laughing Dog Brewery Live Music w/ Samantha Carston m-1am @ The Hive 8-10pm @ The Back Door Bar Free First Saturday at the Museum nic music dance night 10am-2pm @ Bonner Co. History Museum Live Music on the Mountain n Race the Wolf Check out the Museum free of charge in 5:30-8:30pm @ Chimney Rock @ Schweitzer Mtn. Resort this monthly event Head up to Schweitzer for live notch New ultra running event music by Electric Cole Show Sandpoint Art Market rl Rey. DJ Exodus Disco Dead in Concert 11am-3pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Hall 9pm-cl @ A&P’s 7-11:30pm @ The Hive A free event on the courtyard with local o Lakeside Jazz w/ Bright Moments artisans and artists. Live music by Kevin Spend your holiday weekend 6-9pm @ Trinity at City Beach Dorin. Tons of locally handmade wares being Gratefully Independent
Cup Watch Party atchwood Brewing Co. and support your team! various most interesting and t BCGardeners.org
Disco Dead in Concert 7-11:30pm @ The Hive Spend your holiday weekend being Gratefully Independent
un w Holly Walker end d’Oreille Winery nrise scene. Tickets $35 nd a select glass of wine ope rocery
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Live Music w/ The Real Sarahs 3-6pm @ Pend d’ Oreille Winery With organic harmonies that enchant and uplift the spirit, this trio of women - who are all named Sarah - embrace many genres of music
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Book Trust Lawn Party 4pm @ Oden Bay Enjoy croquet, cocktails, and dinner in an amazing lakefront venue for this LPOSD fundraiser (dress in white!)
July 12-14 Sandpoint Antique & Classic Boat Show @ Sandpoint Sand Creek Boardwalk
Utara After Hours w/ Roger Jager 8pm @ Utara Brewing Co. Indie pop music w/ Indian string and pedal tones July 13 Outdoor Experience Intro to Backpacking Class BG H 70th Anni6pm @ Outdoor Experience ver sary @ Bonner Free to attend and free goodies from Osprey Packs General Health Live Music w/ Dustin Drennen Bum Jungle Bash 8-11pm @ 219 Lounge 6-9m @ Matchwood Folk, cow-punk, alt-country Open Mic Night 2/ KC Carter Rock out, Sandpoint! Thursday Night Solo Series w/ Kerry Leigh 9pm-12am @ A&P’s Bar and Grill 6-8pm @ 219 Lounge Lakeside Jazz w/ Bright Moments Original Americana, folk, rock, country and blues 6-9pm @ Trinity @ City Beach
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Bits n’ Pieces From east, west and beyond
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East, west or beyond, sooner or later, events elsewhere may have a local impact. A recent sampling: Scared you’re too out-of-shape to exercise safely? Fitness professional Chad Landers tells AARP Magazine that a study of 1,200 cardiac arrests between ages 35 and 65 found only 5% happened during physical exercise. Landers says his oldest client started with him at age 87, and she increased her strength into her 90s.Moderate exercise can reduce premature death risks by 16 to 30%. Due to anti-immigrant policies, convict leasing is increasing on farms, High Country News reports. A practice that was prohibited during most of the 20th Century, convict leasing pays $3 to $4 an hour where the minimum wage is $11. Convicts are excluded from policies like Fair Labor Standards and organizing for higher wages. Typically, their wages can be garnished to cover incarceration costs and restitution, leaving little to no money for building a new life beyond bars, or for helping their families. A 15-year study of 90,000 dogs, purebreds and mixes, found it’s not likely that mixed breeds have fewer health problems. The study was done at UC-Davis. For information about genetically suppressing genes that could lead to pet health problems, see “Canine Nutrigenomics: The New Science of Feeding Your Dog for Optimum Health.” Newsweek reports a crowd of mostly young Jews shut down access to the Elizabeth Detention Center in New Jersey on June 30, chanting “never again” and “never is now,” referring to revelations of gross abuses of detainees at U.S. government camps. The next day members of Congress toured a border facility in Texas, NBC News said. They were particularly struck be observing that openly, in front of them, detainees were without water and told to drink from toilets. Close to 70% of adults in the U.S. get some of their news from social media, Mother Jones says. Before social media, almost all news outlets had verification standards, although some were “thin and compromised.” Social media’s impact on newspapers: in the early 2000s there were 56,000 journalists in news rooms. That number is down to 24,000 as of this spring. Unaware of how to determine what creates valid news, readers are confused about what is biased, what’s propaganda and what’s real news. A state-of-the-art optical gas imaging camera captures images of leaking methane, along with other dangerous pollutants, from oil and gas industrial sites. Environmental organizations use the camera to not only help reduce climate-destroying methane
By Lorraine H. Marie Reader Columnist
emissions, but to protect nearby families who suffer headaches, bloody noses and respiratory problems from the emissions. Methane gas is over 80 times more powerful as a greenhouse gas than is carbon dioxide, says Earthworks. Bees aren’t the only creatures harmed or killed by neonicotinoid insecticides. Using sparrows in a lab, Canadian scientists fed them a small amount of neonic-treated seeds daily. What was initially thought to be a small neo-nic exposure resulted in birds with both disorientation and up to 17% loss of body weight, according to the researchers’ account in Scientific Reports. Scrutinizing the label: If beauty and body care products contain phthalates, recall that those are linked to birth defects. And if there are parabens, think breast cancer, says Green America. Best choice for health: look for companies that participate in the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. Since plastics began mass production 60 years ago, 8.3 billion metric tons of the stuff has been created. National Geographic reports plastic typically takes 400 years to degrade; currently nine percent is recycled, and manufacturing of plastic doubles every 15 years. Fewer people commit suicide when their financial pressures ease up, a study from the National Bureau of Economic Research indicates. A 10% increase in the minimum wage parallels a 3.6% decline in suicides, Forbes.com reported. And a 10% increase in Earned Income Tax Credit shows a 5.5% decline in suicides. The study suggested that increases in both the minimum wage and EITC could prevent 1230 suicides annually. The suicide decline was particularly true for women. New York State just passed their Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. It requires 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040 and net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Maine has become the first state to prohibit the use of styro-foam food containers, CNN reported. Similar legislation is expected to pass in other states. Less than 3% of Styrofoam is recycled; following brief use it persists in the environment for hundreds of years. Blast from the past: “We can have democracy in this country, or we can have wealth concentrated in the hands of a few, but we cannot have both.” Louis Brandeis, 1856-1941, an associate justice on the U.S. Supreme Court from 1916 to 1939. He also said, “If we desire respect for the law, we must first make the law respectable.”
Sandpoint Art Market: By Ben Olson Reader Staff For Rose Brown, the more chances for local artisans to sell their wares, the better. Brown founded the Sandpoint Art Market this year for just that purpose – to provide local Sandpoint artists with another place to vend their creations. “I started getting into doing art a couple years ago,” Brown said. “I discovered it late in life, and wanted a place for beginner artists and artisans to have somewhere to sell their things, but on a low-commitment level, once a month. It’s a place for people who maybe don’t fit into other venues.” The Sandpoint Art Market takes place every first Saturday of the month from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. through September at the courtyard at MickDuff’s Beer Hall. Brown said the Market aims for fine art and hand-made
items such as clothing, woodworking, jewelers, fine art, soaps, lotions, acrylic paintings, birdhouses, garden art and more. The next Market will take place Saturday, July 6, and will feature live music by Kevin Dorin, as well as the usual eclectic, ever-changing assortment of vendors. “It’s totally free to come check it out and sit on the lawn,” Brown said. “Have a beer, hang out, do a little shopping.” Brown said this opening gambit is part of a larger vision to make a more permanent art space and market in Sandpoint. “Someday I’d love to have a gallery and place to purchase art supplies, maybe a co-op art studio for people that don’t have space and need a studio to create,” Brown said. “Then we’d have an indoor market all year round, with several rotating vendors.” Brown, who doubles as assis-
Supporting local artists one month at a time
tant manager at MickDuff’s Beer Hall, claims to be an “uneducated artist,” whose works in acrylic and mixed media are on display and for sale at local venues such as Northwest Handmade, ShakaPaw, Wolf & Belle and Naked inside the Cedar St. Bridge. Vendors interested in selling their wares can contact Brown at SandpointArtMarket@gmail.com. There is a flat $30 fee to sell, with no percentages taken out for revenue earned at the Market. Vendors are responsible for reporting their own city and state sales tax. Next month’s market will be Aug. 7 and the final of the year Sept. 7, so be sure to check them out when you can. Also, check out Sandpoint Arts Market on Facebook, or “Art Market Sandpoint” on Instagram for more information.
A couple of vendors at the Sandpoint Art Market at MickDuff’s Beer Hall in Sandpoint. Photos by Rose Brown.
Matchwood to host Summer Adventure & Safety Series By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff When it comes to enjoying the great landscapes of North Idaho, even the most seasoned outdoorsman has more to learn. Matchwood Brewing is hoping to create a space where that learning can happen with the Summer Adventure & Safety Series, where local experts will bring topics to the table in hopes they can benefit local recreators next time they hit the trail. Owner Andrea Marcoccio said she and the rest of the Matchwood team was inspired to continue offering outdoor education courses after working with the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center to host their Snow Pit Chats at the brewery this past winter.
“We saw a deep interest from the community in social learning experiences on topics that our neighbors care about deeply,” Marcoccio said. “We are excited to invite guests to connect with one another about outdoor adventures and safety while enjoying local craft beer (and) hearing from experienced leaders on each topic.” The resulting series consists of six workshops pertaining to a swath of knowledge useful for recreating in the summer months. The first in the series is happening July 12 5-6:30 p.m. with help from event partner Selkirk Outdoor & Leadership Education and is titled “Leave No Trace Bear Awareness.” Remaining workshops are “Mountain Medicine: Safety in the Wilderness” Aug. 14 with
Longleaf Wilderness Medicine, “Pack Packing 101” Aug. 21 with SOLE, “Living and Recreating Safely In and Around the Bunker Hill Superfund Site” Aug. 29 with Idaho Conservation League, and finally “Mountain Goat Awareness and Safety” Sept. 11 with Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness. Marcoccio said all workshops in the Summer Adventure & Safety Series are free and aim to target every skill level. “From hikers and trail runners to first-time backpackers, these events are free, family-friendly and will benefit a wide range of adventurers,” she said. Those with questions about the series should contact the brewery at 208-718-2739. July 3, 2019 /
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WEIRD NEWS By Ben Olson Reader Staff
ONLY LIVING, BREATHING PEOPLE COUNT FOR CARPOOL LANE A Nevada Highway Patrol officer pulled over a hearse driving in the carpool lane last week. The vehicle was transporting a dead body at the time of the traffic stop. The officer reminded the driver that passengers “must be alive” to be counted as occupants in cars to use a high occupancy vehicle lane. The agency claimed the hearse driver assumed the body in the back counted toward the two or more occupants required to use the special lane. The trooper let the driver off with a warning, advising him that only “living, breathing people” can be counted for the carpool lane.
THE FLORIDA FILES CON’T A Florida man at a Lake County hospital lost his patience waiting for a ride home from the hospital, so he stole an ambulance. “I’ve been doing this for 21 years in Lake County,” said Sgt. Fred Jones. “I think it’s the first I heard of this.” To make matters worse, the patient was drunk when he stole the vehicle. Officers found him at his home, hiding in the trunk of his car.
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COMMUNITY
Hounds on the Town: Go take a hike... with a dog, of course!
By Reader Staff Someone let the dogs out. Panhandle Animal Shelter is asking members of the community to take shelter dogs out for the day (or just a few hours). It’s a chance to spend some quality time with an amazing dog and help reduce their stress level by being out of the shelter. This program called Hounds on the Town is a unique and soul-satisfying way to become a member of the PAS volunteer community and to encourage people to foster animals. Hounds on the Town is part of a study being conducted by Arizona State University in conjunction with Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University which is being funded by Maddie’s Fund, a national family foundation established by Dave and Cheryl Duffield to revolutionize the status and well-being of companion animals. The goal of the study is to learn more about how fostering programs affect dogs as well as shelter staff and volunteers. The added bonus, you’ll have an awesome time taking part. Foster programs of any length help reduce
stress for dogs in kennels and provide them with enrichment and increased their visibility in the community with potential adopters. They provide shelters with valuable insight on dogs’ personalities and their behavior outside a shelter environment. It’s also a great excuse to do something new or explore beautiful Bonner County. Panhandle Animal Shelter Executive Director, Mandy Evans, notes that similar programs at shelters across the country have been enormously successful: “We are excited to introduce this in our community!” “Foster care is the gold standard for lifesaving, and we consider foster caregivers as the VIPs,” said Mary Ippoliti-Smith of the Maddie’s Fund executive leadership team. “These types of programs are a great way to connect the community with shelter pets.” This program was especially designed to make participation easy. No prior experience is needed, and participants will be provided with everything they need for a successful adventure Individuals interested in taking part in the Hounds on the Town, program should contact us at 208-265-PAWS (7297) for more information.
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FOOD
The Sandpoint Eater
Strawberry fields By Marcia Pilgeram Reader Food Columnist
June was an amalgamation of the things I love most about my favorite summer traditions: vacations with grandkids, solstice, backyard BBQs, the Chamber’s Summer Sampler, Saturday Farmers’ Market and walks and hikes along our many fabulous trails with like-minded spirits. Then, just when I thought I had reached the pinnacle of my Norman Rockwell-like life, I found myself less than five miles from my front door at Hickey Farms, sitting crosslegged, straddled between views of Schweitzer Mountain and Seven Sisters, with straw-bedded rows of sun-ripened, plump and juicy, red strawberries. That’s right, folks, Hickey Farms is now more than the local pumpkin patch we look forward to visiting every fall. They’ve expanded their farmfresh offerings to include u-pick strawberries. It’s only their second season for berries, so they’re still trying to determine which berries are best suited for the farm. They picked some winners (and so did I)! With more than 10,000 plants and seven varieties, there were bright red berries of all shapes and sizes. There was lots of weeding going on while I was picking—and they’ll be weeding out a few varieties of berries too—but amongst the winners and keepers: Jewel: The picture-perfect strawberry, bright red and 18 /
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glossy. The berries have an excellent flavor and enticing aroma that is great for fresh eating or freezing. AC Wendy: A June-bearing variety that produces heavy yields of large, wedge-shaped fruits early in the strawberry season. The fruits have an excellent fresh flavor for fresh eating, pies, desserts and preserves. Seascape: A cross between two popular varieties, seascape is highly productive over a long season, yielding large, delicious berries with excellent flavor. And then there’s the Hickey family favorite, referred to as the Daiquiri strawberry due to its taste. (I can’t vouch for the dai-
quiri taste, but I’m here to sing the berry’s praise for the perfect batches of strawberry margaritas I whipped up that night). Once the u-pick season is over, the hard-working family on this nearly 100-year old farm will pick the fields clean of the berries to produce their own label of jams and jellies ready to buy during their pumpkin patch days. Later this summer, you’ll be able to pick green beans, corn and blackberries, planted (and thriving) nearby. These aren’t the berries, nor the berry experience, of my youth. As a kid, I remember languishing in the summer heat, picking berries for fifty cents a flat. Nor are these the berries we find stacked in grocery store produce-sections
year-round. These berries, with their sweet aroma floating between rows, planted by real farmers, provide us an opportunity to connect with the Mother Earth, picking perfectly ripened red berries while teasing our lips and bellies with a stolen sample or two. I’d only intended to pick a pint or two, but before I knew it—after bantering the time away with the baby-packing family in the next row and the Hickey farmers, affably ensconced under their white-canopied stand—I had half a flat ready to be weighed and priced. For good measure, they tossed in another pint, gratis, and reminded me to take care of my precious and perishable harvest within the
next two days. Get to Hickey Farms before the season is over to pick your own! 674 Hickey Road is located 5.7 miles down Highway 200 from Sandpoint. From Sandpoint, take Highway 200 East about 5.5 miles and take a left onto Hickey Road. If you are coming from Clark Fork or other areas from the east, the turnoff is located about a ½ mile past Colburn Culver Road. And just a reminder, the Hickey “Daquiri strawberries” make the perfect, porch sipping, summertime, margarita. Try a batch. I think even Norman Rockwell would agree. Happy Fourth of July. Be safe, be nice and have fun.
Fresh Strawberry Margaritas
Makes 4 servings
Perfect summer libation. Use the best tequila you can afford, and don’t substitute the Cointreau!
INGREDIENTS: • 1 pound fresh, ripe strawberries, rinsed and hulled • 8 oz good quality tequila • 4 oz Cointreau • 4 oz fresh lime juice • 3 oz agave • Coarse salt for rims
DIRECTIONS: Place strawberries in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour through a fine-meshed sieve, using a spoon to push all the liquid through. You want at least 1 cup of juice. Place all ingredients in the blender and blend to mix well. (If you want frozen margaritas, add some ice). Run a lime wedge around the glass rim and dip the rims
into a plate of coarse salt. Fill glasses with ice and margarita mixture. Garnish with a wedge or wheel of lime, or a strawberry.
FOOD & DRINK
Ready, set, BEER! By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff
Nothing says summer like a beer at the beach. The only question at Sandpoint Beerfest: Which beer will it be? It’s no easy decision when there’s dozens upon dozens of options. Sandpoint Beerfest bring some of the Northwest’s best breweries lakeside for a hoppy heaven that will remind attendees why they live here. Now in its sixth year, the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce continues to build from previous years with more beers, more breweries and more fun for fans of the suds. It all happens 12-5 p.m. Saturday, July 13, at the Trinity at City Beach lawn. “It’s the most fun you’ll have at City Beach all year,” said Ricci Witte, Chamber office manager. The Beerfest concept is simple but elegant: entry gets you a pint glass and several tokens. Those tokens are good to try any selection of the beers in the big tent. One token is good for a half-pour, while two get a full pint. With clever use of tokens, attendees can take a full tour of the best beer the Northwest has to offer. Beerfest is held outside Trinity at City Beach, which also caters the food available on-site. The location provides some spectacular views as a friendly crew of volunteers keep the beer flowing. New this year are a selection of hard seltzers in addition to the beer and cider. Keep an eye out for games, beer trivia, pretzel necklaces and more, too. What could be better than that? Live music by Tennis — that’s what. If you’ve never been to a Tennis show, you don’t know what you’re missing. The band has built a reputation for deliv-
Beer lovers gather under the big tent to check out the offerings at last year’s Beerfest. Courtesy photo ering some of the most spectacular live shows available in the local music scene. With band members scattered around the country, they only manage a few shows in Sandpoint a year, so music lovers know this isn’t an opportunity to pass up. Participating breweries at Beerfest this year include MickDuff’s Brewing, Laughing Dog Brewing, Matchwood Brewing, Post Falls Brewing, Hunga Dunga Brewing, Rants
& Raves Brewery, Paradise Creek Brewery, Twelve String Brewing, Radio Brewing, Jeremiah Johnson Brewing, Payette Brewing Co., Summit Cider and Current Seltzer. Check out www.sandpointchamber.org for more information or to purchase tickets online. Designated drivers and kids over 3 get in for $10 with unlimited root beer and lemonade. Kids under 3 get in for free.
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OUTDOORS
Scotchman Peaks honors ‘Old Goats of the Year’ By Reader Staff Both Larry Siegrist and Robin Chisholm know how to go above and beyond the call of duty. The Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness volunteers have distinguished themselves over the years. They share a similar commitment to wilderness issues even as they tackle very different tasks. And that’s why they have both been recognized as FSPW 2019 Old Goats of the Year. The awards were distributed Friday at the Scotchmans Summer Solstice Party. This is the first year the Friends have named two Old Goats at once. But summer and wintertime volunteer efforts bring their own responsibilities and challenges.
The FSPW team decided to split the award into seasonal categories in recognition of that fact. Larry’s summertime work focused on maintaining the Scotchman Peaks trails. Good trails are what link us to the natural wonder of wilderness. And it’s people like Larry who make sure those trails stay in working condition. His commitment to the job is remarkable. Just days after he received his Old Goat award, a hole opened up in the Scotchman Peaks trail ambassador schedule, and Larry stepped up to fill the void. After all, it takes an Old Goat to keep the peace with real goats. Trail ambassadors hike Scotchman Peak in summer and fall, reminding visitors to keep distance
from wild mountain goats. It’s an important part of keeping the Scotchmans safe and wild for everyone, goats included. According to Larry, some of his fondest memories are of outdoor adventures. That’s why he’s so committed to saving our wild backyard. He works in the Scotchmans because he wants its clean air and clean water saved for our children and grandchildren. “I grew up in the country in a rural area, and I’ve lived in the wilderness for a number of years,” Larry said. “I have an appreciation for the wilderness. It’s where I’m happiest.” Robin’s commitment to the wild Scotchmans burns just as bright. The winter Old Goat of the year, Robin developed an
Larry Siegrist.
Robin Chisholm
orienteering module for Winter Tracks. This student-centered program gets kids out into nature, exploring and learning with a map and compass in hand. Thanks to Robin, they have a tried-and-true method to connect with the wilderness spirit. She even loans the program mate-
rials to the Friends for general use. And when she can’t teach Winter Tracks herself, she trains other volunteers to do it. It’s volunteers like Robin and Larry that keep the dream of the wild Scotchmans alive. To learn how you can too, visit www. scotchmanpeaks.org.
Inspiration for the home gardener, close to home The Bonner County Gardeners Association Garden Tour is happening Sunday
By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff It’s commonplace for artists, musicians, writers and creators of all types to draw inspiration from the works of others in their own endeavors. As it turns out, the same goes for gardeners. The annual Bonner County Gardeners Association Garden Tour, happening July 7, is the perfect opportunity to brainstorm your next outdoor masterpiece, camera in tow. Garden Tour committee member Eileen Esplin said proceeds from tour ticket purchases go toward BCGA’s various educational programs, including basic gardening and home horticulture classes offered to Bonner County residents throughout the year. Earnings also go toward BCGA’s community beautification efforts, including sponsorship of several downtown flower baskets and the enhancements in front of the Bonner County Fairgrounds main exhibit building. 20 /
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This year’s tour consists of eight locations, all in or near central Sandpoint: 602 and 608 Creekside Lane, 2204 and 2211 Browning Way, 901 Pine Street, 502 South Marion Avenue, 1712 Poplar Street and the Community Garden at 6th and Pine. The group is made up of largely home gardens — consisting of flowers, vegetables and fruit — volunteered for the tour by private people, Esplin said. The tour is self-guided, and BCGA volunteers will be at each location. “You get to see some beautiful gardens in the community that you otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to see,” she said. Aside from the simple enjoyment that comes from touring some of the county’s most elaborate backyards, Esplin said those aspiring to step up their gardening game may have something more to gain. “You get inspired,” she said. “You see what other people have done, and you do get ideas for
your own garden, like how to arrange flowers, and what types grow here.” Esplin said the BCGA Garden Tour started in 2002, and each year since has revealed pleasant surprises at every garden on the tour map. It’s something Esplin and many others certainly look forward to each summer.
“I just love looking at what people have done,” she said. The 2019 BCGA Garden Tour is happening 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday, July 7..Tickets for the tour are $15 per adult, and children can attend for free. Buy tickets ahead of time online at bcgardeners.org, or purchase them from a BCGA volunteer at
The Community Garden sitting pretty a week before the BCGA Garden Tour. Photo by Lyndsie Kiebert. any of the gardens on the tour. Tickets purchased day-of at tour locations must be paid for with cash. Please leave pets at home. Tour maps and address lists are also available at bcgardeners.org.
MUSIC
SummerFest No. 25 on tap next weekend By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff Next weekend marks a quarter-century of rocking out in the woods for SummerFest. The Eureka Institute’s annual music festival — known colloquially for years as “Jerry Fest” — is celebrating 25 years in 2019, and the line-up exemplifies the breadth of genre the weekend is known to host. On two stages tucked into the Sagle trees, performers will fill two days — July 12 and 13 — with music and dance. Friday’s music acts include Trout Steak Revival, 45th Street Brass Band, Honeysuckle, Boulder Creek Bluegrass Band and Cole and the Thornes. Saturday will bring music from Diggin Dirt, Moontricks, Them Coulee Boys, BareGrass, Breadbox, the Brenden Kelty Trio, Big Phatty and the Inhalers, John Firshi, and The Wildcrafters, as
well as dance performances by The Gypsy Divas and magic with Star Alexander. The weekend-long festivities serve as not only an arts-rich mini getaway, but proceeds from SummerFest make a lasting impact by going toward the Eureka Institute’s Construction Basics Initiative. The program provides underserved and at-risk teens the opportunity to learn hands-on carpentry skills which are then put to use building and repairing North Idaho’s nonprofit and public infrastructure. Robb Talbott of Mattox Farm Productions helps book the talent for SummerFest, and said what stands out to him most about the event is the widespread influence it has on the Sandpoint community as a whole. “We get together to enjoy each other’s company in a way no other festival does — with music, food and a variety of activities for all ages all for a very reasonable
price,” Talbott said. “And the proceeds from this event go to teaching teens valuable skills that improve their lives by building and repairing structures that improve the lives of others in the community. It’s a win, win, win to me.” SummerFest takes place July 12-14 at 6162 Eureka Rd. in Sagle. Camping spaces are available, but the Eureka Institute asks SummerFest attendees leave pets at home.
Courtesy photo. Camp stoves are also not allowed, but there will be hot food from Eichardt’s and Sandpoint Curry available for purchase, and cold or pre-cooked food is welcome. Buy tickets to SummerFest at Eichardt’s or online at eurkea-institute.org, and learn more about this year’s acts by visiting www. mattoxfarm.com/summerfest.
Spreading hope through the power of music By Kathi Samuels Reader Contributor For nearly a decade, Sandpoint resident and former Director of Asia ICN Heather Mehra-Pedersen traveled the globe as part of the team that hand selects children to join the choir. She is actively awaiting the Matsiko World Orphan Choir’s return to Sandpoint later this month — in what supporters are anticipating to be a city-wide saturation of singing, destined to connect cultures and multiply giving through the power of the arts. “It’s incredible to witness lives transforming as these kids share their hope-filled message on stage,” said Mehra-Pedersen. Made up of children from the mountains of Peru to the villages of Liberia West Africa, the Matsiko Choir (the flagship vehicle of International Children’s Network or ICN) captures the hearts of all who hear their message. The kids sing with such passion and meaning that their hope in overcoming tragedy and the life-changing effects of a supported education
is truly inspiring. The Choir’s contagious energy and zeal shines through a powerful presentation of original songs, cultural dances, and multimedia testimony. Over a 10-month period, orphaned children and the most vulnerable children are auditioned annually and selected from a pool of hundreds before leaving what they know as home: garbage heaps, the bush, brothels and cardboard shacks. These chosen few become part of a one-year United States musical tour of heroes. Ages range from 5 to 15. Some of these kids have never experienced electricity, a pair of shoes or running water. Therefore, the touring experience is life-changing in many ways. The Matsiko children sing, dance and share their stories for a very worthy goal: to raise hope, needed assistance, awareness and educational support for as many of our world’s 600 million at-risk children as possible. Because of ICN’s unique sponsorship, orphaned and at-risk children have a chance to break the cycle of poverty with an education at the highest university or vocational
This week’s RLW by Ben Olson
READ
If you’re feeling patriotic this week, why not check out an excellent book about the founding of our nation? “1776” by historian David McCullough focuses on the events surrounding the start of the American Revolution. Meant to be a companion to McCullough’s earlier biography of John Adams, “1776” provides an all-access view of the events and people that led to our Declaration of Independence.
LISTEN
A song popped into my mind when trying to think of a song that captures the heart of America. And that is, of course, “America” by Simon and Garfunkel. The narrative of lovers on a cross-country odyssey encapsulates the dichotomy of America: the beauty and despair, its richness and barren emptiness. It’s no wonder Bernie Sanders used this song in a campaign ad.
WATCH
The Matsiko World Orphan Choir. Courtesy photo. across cultures. levels of their nations. They then The first opportunity to see the return to their villages to help othChoir in Sandpoint will be at their er children, thereby empowering kickoff performance co-hosted by collective futures with indepenLost Horse Press and MCS on July dence for the first time ever. 27 at the Celebration of Arts and Choir children will be hosted Culture where Matsiko will sing during their stay by the Music alongside local children (MemoConservatory of Sandpoint and rial Field at 3:30 p.m.; gates open a community of host families. at 1p.m.). Their stay will continue Earlier this year, the Conservain and around Sandpoint from late tory reached out to Heather and July into August. Please watch loMatsiko in hopes of creating an opportunity for Sandpoint children cal message boards for additional venues, or to find out how you can to sing together and raise awarecome alongside this arts collaboness for their cause. This unified effort is part of the school’s annual ration, please contact Janice Wall, Director of Music Matters/MCS MCS Without Borders benefit, an international exchange philosophy @ 208-265-4444. Give directly at www.matsikochoir.com. that mirrors the power of music
I still remember when they wheeled in the TV so we could watch the film “Glory” in high school. It moved me then as it still does today. This excellent film follows the formation and combat of the first African-American regiment of the American Civil War led by Col. Robert Gould Shaw (played by Matthew Broderick). Denzel Washington and Morgan Freeman contribute dynamite performances in this classic film honoring these often-forgotten soldiers. July 3, 2019 /
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POETRY
The Owl Cafe
OPEN 11:30 am
GAME ROOM UPSTAIRS
By Gary Buck
From Pend Oreille Review, June 25, 1915
CITY BATHING PLACE PROPOSED
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Who’s stewin’ at the Owl Cafe? The dead end turn off of Government Way They’re burning crosses with the bacon these days There’s trouble brewin’ at the Owl Cafe. Who spread hate when they plan their parades? Who disgrace city, county and state? Who raise tensions when they congregate? They’re drinking coffee at the Owl Cafe.
Council takes steps to utilize sandy beach for public good
Who’s the lemon in the lemonade? Rimrock Explosives set to detonate. Who’s dared to go and use His name this way? They eat prayer breakfast at the Owl Cafe.
Sandpoint will have a public bathing place this season; that is if the plans now under way by the city council work out. And there is little likelihood of their failure. The matter came up at the meeting of the council Tuesday night and a special committee composed of Yokam, Selle and Brower was appointed to look into the matter and report at the next meeting of the council. Those who have been promoting the enterprise suggest that the beach lying between the Northern Pacific and county bridges is ideal for bathing purposes, and it is proposed that the city secure some house boats, or cause some shacks to be erected on the beach for dressing purposes. Also that certain hours of the day be set for bathers, during which time one of the police force will be on duty at the beach to preserve order and decorum. The plan if carried out will surely provide for a long felt want, for many, especially ladies have been prevented from enjoying this sport of all sports because of the lack of a place with the proper conveniences. The beach suggested is ideal for the purpose and the city council will certainly win the approval of many by equipping it as a public bathing place.
Who’s white as snow and proud to be that way? Who’s blamed his troubles on another race? Who spews his venom through a wrinkled face? Who’s black? Just coffee at the Owl Cafe.
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Hearts black as coffee at the Owl Cafe. Editor’s Note: This is another poem by Gary Buck, a longtime Sandpoint local who we wrote about in last week’s issue. This poem was written in the mid-1990s during the height of the Aryan Nations in Hayden Lake. Gary’s poem depicts a time when he came face to face with the former leader of the racist neo-Nazi movement, Richard Butler at a cafe in Hayden.
The Psounbality with Per FRESH FOOD LIVE MUSIC THE BEST NW BREWS
212 Cedar Street Downtown Sandpoint
208.263.4005 A SandPint Tradition Since 1994
Crossword Solution
When I was a child, there were times when we had to entertain ourselves. And usually the best way to do that was to turn on the TV.
Copyright www.mirroreyes.com
CROSSWORD ACROSS
esprit de l’escalier
Woorf tdhe Week
/es-PREE duh le-SKAHL-yey / [noun] 1. a perfect comeback or witty remark that one frustratingly comes up with only when the moment for doing so has passed.
“Writers tend to be people whom esprit de l’escalier is a recurrent experience.” Corrections: Nothing to report this week, red pen warriors. -BO
1. Alert 5. Alpha’s opposite 10. Midmonth date 14. Away from the wind 15. Children 16. Resound 17. Drowsiness 19. Beige 20. Detachable container 21. Cut of beef 22. Cake frosting 23. Fashionable 25. Open, as a bottle 27. East southeast 28. Knee pants 31. A dice game 34. Threesome 35. French for “Summer” 36. Offended 37. Publish 38. Buttocks 39. Belief 40. Affair 41. Jokes 42. Wild mustard 44. To make a fool of (archaic) 45. Divinity 46. Ill-mannered 50. Chubby Checker’s dance 52. Elegance 54. Twosome 55. Sword handle 56. Backwash 58. Small island
Solution on page 22 59. Feel 60. Central area of a church 61. Not barefoot 62. Fruity-smelling compound 63. Beers
8. Gesticulating 9. Donkey 10. Vomitive 11. Decodes 12. Acquire deservedly 13. Strike heavily 18. One who is excessively proper 22. Anagram of “Dice” 24. Past tense of Leap DOWN 26. Tidy 1. Narrow-waisted stingers 28. Threshold 2. Grant 29. French for “State” 3. Slender 30. Collections 4. Born as 31. Fashionable 5. Indolent 32. Hurry 6. Tropical Asian starlings 33. Armored nocturnal 7. Anagram of “Seek” mammal
34. Three wheelers 37. Conspiracy 38. Sassy 40. Flutter 41. Fight on horseback 43. Reposed 44. Street person 46. Expire 47. Something to shoot for 48. Debonair 49. Houses 50. Not that 51. Desire 53. Fluff 56. South southeast 57. Ribonucleic acid
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