Reader May 10 2018

May 10, 2018

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE

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Vol. 15 Issue 19

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ADVISORY VOTE

THE BEATLES FANTASY TRIBUTE SHOW AT THE PANIDA OUR GARDEN COLUMNIST RETURNS! EMILY ARTICULATED, ROMAN NAVAL WARFARE, A TON OF LETTERS AND MORE!

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(wo)MAN compiled by

Susan Drinkard

DEAR READERS,

on the street

Do you favor the proposal for congressional designation of a 13,960-acre Scotchman Peaks Wilderness area in Bonner County?

“Yes, I think it’s important to preserve beautiful wildlands for the children, the planet, and we need wildlife corridors. Wilderness has characteristics that nothing else does. We need wilderness areas for education, for inspiration, and for the way they filter and protect our watersheds.”

Carol Wilburn Consultant, caregiver Missoula, formerly of Sandpoint

“Yes. This proposal is not a federal land grab. It is already federal land, and the opportunities for motorized travel in the county are not in short supply. More wilderness is a huge plus for the county. The only downside is it will bring more tourists to the area.”

•TRANSPORTATION: Secure funding to

improve safety and efficiency of our roads, bridges and airports.

•EDUCATION: Adequately fund education and integrate vocational education to meet work force needs.

•JOBS: Retain and expand our current resource jobs and promote jobs in emerging industries.

•NATURAL RESOURCES: Expand the multiple use of our forests and protect our precious waters.

•CONSTITUENT SERVICE: Listen to constituents and address the “things that matter” to them.

Jon Nylund Retired Sagle

www.MikeBoeckForIdaho.com

“I think we should protect the land by designating it as a wilderness area, and not destroy it.”

Charity Walker Supervisor at UPS Sandpoint “I vacillate on this. I don’t think you are allowed to ride bicycles in a wilderness area, and I think people should be able to. I think most of the snowmobilers are good about staying on the paths, but in a wilderness area no motorized vehicles are allowed. I don’t think people will go up there unless they are awfully fit though. I go back and forth on this.”

Susan Comerinsky Retired electrical designer and piling estimator Sandpoint

“Yes and no. The people simply want more input in the drafting of the perimeter and the rules and regulations of what will be a permanent wilderness.”

Nicholas Robertson Student Heron, Montana

This week’s issue marks a new milestone for the Reader. At 32 pages, this is our largest issue ever. It almost destroyed us to make it happen, but we did it. Whew.

We have a lot of information in this issue: sample voter ballots, a fourpage feature on the Scotchman Peaks advisory vote, three pages of letters to the editor, plus your usual assortment of random Reader subject matters.

If I may step onto my soapbox for a moment, I’d like to remind everyone that May 15 is the primary election.

Early voting has already started, but if you like to vote on election day like I do, polls are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Why vote? Well, there are many reasons. Voting is a right and a privilege. Voting is the way we participate in democracy. Voting is a way for our voices to be heard. Quite frankly, if you don’t vote, your opinion doesn’t really matter to me.

Don’t be apathetic. Don’t stay home. Don’t think everyone else will solve the problems of the world. Take 20 minutes to vote for the candidates that support your causes.

Don’t forget to vote on May 15!

Best of luck to all the candidates.

-Ben Olson, Publisher

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

www.sandpointreader.com Publisher: Ben Olson ben@sandpointreader.com Editor: Cameron Rasmusson cameron@sandpointreader.com Zach Hagadone (emeritus) John Reuter (emeritus) Advertising: Jodi Taylor Jodi@sandpointreader.com Contributing Artists: Leslie Kiebert (cover), Ben Olson, Susan Drinkard.

Contributing Writers: Cameron Rasmusson, Ben Olson, Lyndsie Kiebert, Emily Erickson, Katie Bradish, Brenden Bobby, Suzen Fiskin, Kaitlyn Turnbull, Laurie Brown, Mike Wagoner.

Submit stories to: stories@sandpointreader.com Printed weekly at: Griffin Publishing Spokane, Wash.

Subscription Price: $95 per year Web Content: Keokee The Sandpoint Reader is a weekly publication owned and operated by Ben Olson and Keokee. It is devoted to the arts, entertainment, politics and lifestyle in and around Sandpoint, Idaho.

We hope to provide a quality alternative by offering honest, in-depth reporting that reflects the intelligence and interests of our diverse and growing community.

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

Free to all, limit two copies per person.

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 photograph was taken by Leslie Kiebert. The photo was taken atop Scotchman Peak and shows one of the many mountain goats in their natural habitat. Thanks for the cool photo, Leslie.

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NEWS

Candidate Forum draws capacity crowd

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff A primary election candidate forum filled the Sandpoint High School auditorium Tuesday night, leading to some detailed discussions and occasionally rowdy moments.

In the Republican primary for District 3 commissioner, candidates Dan McDonald and Carol Kunzeman traded blows over the Scotchman Peaks Wilderness proposal, which McDonald opposes and Kunzeman supports. Kunzeman said it wasn’t appropriate for McDonald to be so vocally opposed to the proposal. McDonald countered that former County Commissioner Cary Kelly traveled to Washington, D.C., to support the proposal, and no one spoke against him.

On other issues, McDonald emphasized his cutting more than $8 million from the county budget, as well as his commitment to serving as many hours as possible to get the job done. Kunzeman highlighted her previous experience on the Ponderay City Council, as well as her willingness to work in service of all residents and not an ideology.

Scotchman Peaks also proved a testy issue for Steven Bradshaw and Glen Bailey, Republican candidates for District 1 commissioner. Bradshaw, the pastor of the Cocolalla Cowboy Church who positions himself as a deeply conservative Christian, criticized Bailey for voting against a proposal to include the word “federal” in the Scotchman Peaks advisory vote language.

Bradshaw also criticized the proposed Newport smelter, saying it was arranged illegally.

Bailey defended the Scotchman Peaks ballot language, saying it was clear that the wilderness was a federal issue. He also called for a full assessment of facts before making a decision on the smelter issue. On county management, he emphasized the need to offer competitive salaries to county employees to prevent them from finding more profitable work elsewhere.

Also in the race for District 1 commissioner, Bruce Hollett said he wasn’t yet against the smelter, preferring to take a wait-and-see ap-

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Top: There were almost two dozen candidates that attended the forum.

Right: Those in attendance numbered over 300, filling nearly every seat.

Photos by Ben Olson. proach. He declared his opposition to Scotchman Peaks Wilderness and emphasized his background as a third-generation resident, saying his lifelong history in the area gave him an understanding of its issues.

District 1 Rep. Heather Scott, running for the Republican nomination against Mike Boeck, balked at a question over her no vote on a bill that hiked fees for out-of-state motorboat invasive species stickers, saying it was unfair. She added that she wasn’t against invasive species checking stations. Scott also took a firm stance against the smelter and said she led efforts to oppose it. On education, she said schools were being hurt by Common Core and high administrative salaries. She said that her coalition of like-minded legislators is growing in Boise, and they’ve been making progress.

Boeck, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of calming the divisive politics that have split the community, whether it be Scotchman Peaks or differing conservative ideologies. Instead, he presented himself as a common-sense conservative who would serve all constituents. He emphasized the need to be diligent in combating invasive species and said he will oppose the

smelter if the facts show it to be as harmful as people fear.

Ellen Weissman, running against a no-show Bob Vickaryous for the Democratic state representative nomination, said she supports Scotchman Peaks, opposes the smelter and calls for improved education.

Danielle Ahrens, running against Scott Herndon and Jim Woodward for the Republican state senate nomination, said that years of political work has prepared her to serve in Boise. She said she stands against Scotchman Peaks and called for more parent choice in education, giving them freedom to choose public, private or charter options.

Woodward said he hopes to bring the professional, common-sense approach to Boise that he honed over his years of military service and business ownership. He said Scotchman Peaks Wilderness legislation could be written to address the concerns of its opponents and called for a revised look at Idaho’s education funding mechanisms.

Herndon said that national and state governments have fallen astray of their constitutional roots and called for a return to those principles. To that point, he said he would

work to enact constitutional audits if elected.

He said that home-school households deserve more support in Idaho and called for the prohibition of abortion.

In the Bonner County assessor race, Dennis Engelhardt said that he had the administrative and leadership skill to manage the office effectively.

Donna Gow said that as someone who has worked in the office for years, she knows precisely what its problems are and how to fix them. Richard Miller said his business experience prepared him to keep the assessor’s office from becoming a bureaucracy.

There were many more subjects covered at the forum, not to mention candidates in unopposed races who introduced themselves. Visit http:// krfymedia.keokee. com/20171030CandidatesForum.mp3 and check out the podcast.

NEWS

Ting fiber internet announces expansion to south Sandpoint

By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff

Representatives of internet infrastructure and service provider Ting announced Tuesday that they’re expanding their installation plans into south Sandpoint. This expansion is sometimes referred to as “Phase 2.”

“Although we are announcing Phase 2 tonight, our goal is to get most, if not all, of the Sandpoint city limits done by the end of the year including west of Division and around the airport,” said Ting’s VP Networks Adam Eisner.

“We are also dedicated to lighting up downtown.”

Ting announced Phase 2 during a Tuesday night community hall event at the Panida. Along with Eisner, the Sandpoint’s local Ting team was all there. Ting Sandpoint City Manager Kari Saccomanno said every Sandpoint team member is from this area, including herself.

“We believe in being hyper-local wherever we go: in our teams, our partners and especially in our community involvement,” Eisner said. “We are very dedicated to

being an integral part of every community where we lay fiber.”

Fiber is offered to homes, small businesses and enterprise businesses, and consists of a physical fiber line planted in the ground.

Sandpoint is one of six cities in the U.S. where Ting is implementing their “crazy-fast fiber Internet” — offering speeds of up to a gigabit per second. Eisner said the goal is to expand into Dover, Kootenai and Ponderay, given enough demand.

Right now, residents in and around Sandpoint can pre-order fiber internet at ting.com/sandpoint. The deadline to pre-order and receive free installation in the Phase 1 area is Aug. 15.

“A pre-order acts as a vote for your neighborhood, helping us gauge demand and plan construction,” Saccomanno said.

Ting is donating $5 to the Panida for every person in attendance Tuesday night. Saccomanno said 96 people attended, so the Panida will receive a $480 donation.

Those with questions regarding fiber internet or pre-ordering

should contact Saccomanno at

Community rallies to support flower baskets

By Reader Staff

When the BID (Business Improvement District) was dissolved last year, it became clear certain things would dissolve with it — namely, the annual hanging of vibrant flower baskets throughout downtown from May to September.

Spearheaded by Deanna Harris at Sharon’s Hallmark, local businesses got together to talk about the need and set a modest goal to raise funds for 50 baskets (in years past, there have been over 100). At $75 each, they felt 50 would be a good goal. With the assistance of business owners, volunteers, the media and the Chamber, word got out. Funds slowly began trickling in, and the more they advertised the need, the more people came together.

Businesses all over town, individuals, couples from out of state, and small groups started sending in checks to the Chamber.

“I was pleasantly surprised by the response from the community.

I quickly realized how much our town loves seeing these flower bas-

kets every year. The response was so positive,” said volunteer Ranel Hanson, who went business to business asking for donations. To date, the community raised enough money to purchase 90 flower baskets.

The flower baskets are currently being assembled by Creach Greenhouse and will be delivered and hung downtown on Thursday, May 17. The streets will be vibrantly decorated just in time for Lost in the 50’s weekend.

Sponsors: Great Stuff, Paul Graves, BNSF Railway, Laura Sabet, Buffy McClure, James and Dona Fuller, Clem Yonker and Lori Getts, North Country Electric, Scott and Barbara McLongstreet, The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce, Ken Wood, Meadowbrook, Judd and Merilee Conley, Lisa Maus, Bleeding Hearts Tattoo, Realty Plus, Sandpoint Reader, Laughing Dog Brewing, Sandpoint Storage, Rose Marie Thompson, Litehouse, Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness, John and Lynda Hansen, Shirley M. Howard, Cecily and Raymond Britton, William and

Shirley Holt, Xhale Pilates Studio, The Martini Girls, Tomlinson Sotheby’s Intl, James and Lori Armbruster, Bonner County Gardeners Assoc., Bella Terra, Scott Dunn, Janeen Braun, Cedar St. Bistro, Burl Wood Dreams, Alpine Shop, Sharon’s Hallmark, Weekends and Company, Everygreen Realty, Zero Point, I Saw Something Shiny II, Santosha LLC, Century 21 Riverstone, La Quinta Inns, Beet & Basil, Hendricks Architecture, Mistie Kinney Realtor, Farhan M. Patel, Petal Talk, Dan and Sherry Morgan, Washington Trust Bank, Larson’s, Ray and Dee Kosse, Miriam and Seth Warner, Shirley A. Parker, Idaho Pour Authority, Outdoor Experience, Lana Kay Realty, Sunshine Goldmine, Ranel and Ron Hanson, Misty Mountain Furniture, Karen Seashore and Tom Tillisch, Gail Harmelin, Pastor Keith and Cora Goulette, MickDuff’s Brewing Co., Thomas and Tracy Gibson, Alliance Title and Escrow, Kochava, Inc., Northern Lights, Keokee, Ann and Edward Kritzeck, Horizon Credit Union, JW Healey, Eichardt’s Pub and, Blue Sky Broadcasting

kari@ting.com.

A phase 1 and 2 map of Sandpoint. Courtesy of Ting.

Sandbags available to combat imminent flooding

By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff Predictions that this year’s above-average snowpack would lead to flooding are coming to fruition.

Bonner County Emergency Management announced Wednesday that the warm temperatures, runoff and rain mean the Pend Oreille River will likely exceed flood stage this week.

Residents who need sand and sandbags can find resources at these locations: • Bonner County District 2 Road and Bridge shop on Eastside Road • Selkirk Fire in Sagle, on Gun Club Road • Northside Fire, across from Pack River Store

• City of Sandpoint’s shop (2024 Industrial Way) • Sam Owen Fire in Hope (they have bags only) •Northside Fire Station 1 (bags only) Those with questions should contact Bonner County Emergency Management at 208-265-8867.

Myrtle Creek Rd. open

By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff

The Bonners Ferry Ranger District is opening all of Myrtle Creek Road, FSR# 633, in Boundary County. The road had been closed to prevent damage due to a soft road bed caused by snow melt.

For additional information, or to report new road damage, please contact the Bonners Ferry Ranger District at 208-267-5561.

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ELECTION COVERAGE

SAM PLE BALLOTS

District 1

Here is a quick peek at what to expect on the primary election ballot. We’ve included both Republican and Democratic ballots.

Nonpartisan ballots are not pictured because they include only judicial nominees and the Scotchman Peaks advisory question.

For District 7 voters, please refer to BonnerCountyId.gov for full election information.

REPUBLICAN

REPUBLICAN

Republican Primary Ballot -District 1-

Democratic Primary Ballot -District 1-

DEMOCRAT

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DEMOCRAT

ELECTION COVERAGE First Judicial District Court Judges

Editor Cameron Rasmusson asked the two judges in contested races a few questions: 1.) What qualities do you think most qualify you to be a First District judge?

2.) Is there any change in direction or judgment you feel is necessary in First District Court?

3.) What are the most important factors to consider when contemplating a judgment?

4.) What is the number-one issue courts could better address to benefit Idahoans?

5.) Is there any particular message you want to send out to voters?

John mitchell

Douglas pierce, esq.

1. A) I am fair. There are two (sometimes more) sides to nearly every issue presented to me. I listen to people and show that I am understanding their position.

B) I am always prepared. There is a lot of reading involved with this position, and I always read all that has been submitted prior to going in for the hearing. C) I know I am hard working, I always have been.

I do much more than I have to as a judge. Presiding over the Mental Health Court as I have for the past 14 years takes about 10 hours a week. This is purely time that I volunteer because it is over and above my already-large caseload.

In other words, I receive no reduction in my regular caseload and I receive no extra pay for presiding over the Mental Health Court. D) I

hold people accountable. Whether it is the people or entities appearing before me, or their attorneys or agencies with whom I interact, I hold people accountable, and I hold myself accountable. E) I am a leader. I created the Mental Health Court in 2004, and have presided over it ever since. That program has been replicated throughout the state of Idaho. I speak at least once a month to public service groups, associations, and businesses, about issues facing the criminal justice system, such as: addiction, mental health, trauma, smart sentencing, criminal justice reform.

2. We need a Veteran’s Court.

Problem-solving courts such as Mental Health Court and Drug Court work, they change people’s dysfunctional behaviors,

1. I have been a trial lawyer for 16 years and served as the Whitman County District Court commissioner (an appointed judicial position) early on in my legal career. I have represented clients and won trials in both the civil and criminal arenas.

My experience in both areas of litigation has given me a well-rounded perspective that I will carry to the bench. Also, I am confident that I would bring fairness and stability to the position.

that I feel is necessary to replace in order to put the First District Court in a more positive direction.

2. Overall, five of the six Judges in the First District are outstanding jurists. I am running for the position

3. The law, which is comprised of the Constitutions, the Statutes and the Court Rules. Next would be the facts specific to the matter.

4. Drug addiction, currently the opioid crisis, and continued traumatic events.

5. I will start with the law. I will do my very best to treat the people who appear in front of me with fairness and respect, deserving to all.

and they are very cost effective as opposed to prison. We have needed a Veteran’s Court for quite some time. I’d like to see a juvenile mental health court. It would be best practice to have a dedicated juvenile judge (as opposed to rotating a different magistrate each week for that caseload).

3. Getting the facts right, applying the law correctly to those facts.

4. Judges don’t have to get involved in trying to change behaviors, judges can simply pronounce a sentence, walk away and hope for the best. But judges are in a great position to foster and create change in the lives of addicts, but doing so takes more work. It takes presiding over a problem-solving court. It takes periodic probation reviews to hold the person accountable. It takes putting people on probation and actually monitoring that probation.

5. Over the past 16 years I have demonstrat-

ed my consistent leadership as a judge, my consistent effort over and above what is expected, and I have demonstrated my commitment to this area where I have spent my entire life.

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Claude Bourbon June 2

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Call Di Luna's to reserve your spot.

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Doors open at 5:30pm for dinner service May 10, 2018 /

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COMMUNITY

Help spiff up downtown this weekend

By Reader Staff

Bouquets: • What a great turnout we had at the Reader Appreciation Show at Di Luna’s on Saturday. Special thanks to Michael Spurgin and the Roundtable crew who put this all together.

Also, thanks to Drew Browne, Samantha Carston and Truck Mills — known collectively as Browne Salmon Truck — for playing an awesome show. The night raised over $800, which was donated to the Reader.

Thank you so much to all who attended and for the staff at Di Luna’s for hosting us. We are honored to have such high quality people read our publication every week.

• Also, special thanks goes out to all the candidates and audience members who attended our forum Tuesday night. Any time we can get together and talk about the issues in a civil manner in front of the public is a win for me. I appreciate all those who took the time out of their busy weeks!

Barbs • Are you one of those people who like to complain about politics, but when asked who they voted for they said, “Oh, I didn’t vote.”

Ugh. The easiest, most effective way to participate in our political system is to vote. The simplest way to be labeled ignorant is to not vote.

A population that has a high-voter turnout is an informed electorate.

If you don’t vote, your opinion on politics doesn’t matter Not. One. Single. Bit. You can argue whatever point you like, but if you didn’t vote, don’t expect to have any reasoned debate with me whatsoever.

So... VOTE. May 15, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at your local polling place.

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The Bonner County Volunteer Network, with the support of the City of Sandpoint and the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce, has organized a Downtown Spring Clean Up on Saturday, May 12, from 8-11 a.m.

This is a family- and dog-friendly community event to spruce up downtown just in time for Lost in the ‘50s and the summer season. The cleanup will include First to Fifth avenues,

Cedar to Pine streets and along Sand Creek.

Meet at the Petal Talk parking lot on Cedar for street assignments. BYOB (Bring your own broom). Gloves and trash bags will be provided. Understory Coffee and Tea will provide free drip coffee for volunteers.

For more information or to ask questions, please email BonnerCountyVolunteerNetwork@ gmail.com or visit the Downtown Sandpoint Spring Clean Facebook event page.

Elks Women’s golf league begins

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

It’s beginning to look a lot like... golfing!

Women golfers of all ages and skill levels are invited to participate in the Wednesday morning Elks Ladies Golf League.

Opening day is Wednesday, May 16, at 8 a.m. The Ladies Golf League will register before the game, then they’ll play nine

Vote for Candidates Who Support Our Values ...

Dear Editor, The old saw in Idaho is true more often than not: The conservative wins the primary and the Republican wins the November election. Too often we end up electing people who don’t represent the views of most Idahoans. This is easy to see when you compare statewide polls like the one Boise State University produces every year with the actions of our elected officials.

A recent Idaho survey showed overwhelming support for public lands and conservation. Seventy-six percent of Idahoans call themselves “Conservationists.” Yet we often elect politicians to county, state and federal office who look for ways to sell or otherwise reduce our public lands. The “conservatives” we keep electing don’t conserve. Which brings me to the point of this column.

The Bonner County Commissioner placed an advisory vote on our May 15 ballot to divine if Bonner County citizens favor Sen. Risch’s proposal to designate a small 14,000-acre chunk of National Forest land in the Scotchman Peaks as wilderness, thus protecting it to the highest standard available. Local conservationists, buoyed by support this bill has seen in local public meetings and the knowledge that most Idahoans love their

holes and wind down with a delicious brunch. All play will occur at the Sandpoint Elks Golf Course in Ponderay.

The cost is $35 per person.

The Ladies Golf League is a fun loving, welcoming group, so don’t be afraid to show up and say hello. Members are also encouraged to ask their friends to join.

For more information, call the Sandpoint Elks Golf Course at (208) 263-4321.

public lands, are excited about this vote.

We expect most citizens of our county to vote in favor of wilderness for the Scotchman Peaks. But it’s time to take a step beyond that and vote for candidates who represent our values. There are clear choices this primary election, whether you are voting the Republican or Democrat ballot.

The last several Bonner County Commissions have stood proudly and endorsed the wilderness. Present commissioner, Dan McDonald, is taking the opposite approach, actively speaking out against the proposal. We have two chances to elect someone who better represents most of us in District 3. Carol Kunzeman, former mayor of Ponderay, is running against McDonald in the May 15 primary. The winner will face Democrat Steve Lockwood in the fall.

District 1 Commissioner Glen Bailey supports the wilderness and deserves continued support from conservationists over his two opponents.

Heather Scott faces Mike Boeck in the Republican primary for District 1 state representative. Scott is proud to be a far-right flame-thrower who thinks that our nationally owned lands should be converted to state or private control.

Boeck understands the value of our public lands. The winner will face Democrat Ellen Weissman in the fall.

In the District 1 Republican Idaho Senate Primary, one of three candidates

It is easy being green

By Reader Staff The Sandpoint Sustainability Committee meets every fourth Wednesday at 4 p.m. at the Sandpoint City Hall to discuss ways our community can promote greener choices. The public is always welcome to attend.

Here are a handful of tips to be green from the committee:

Raking – Leave it if you can stand it! Raking is damaging to grass.

Just let old grass and leaves break down and provide nutrients. If you do rake, use the debris: Compost it or put in flower beds for mulch.

Composting – Composting dramatically cuts down the amount of garbage you put out for the city. If you have space, it is actually easy and totally satisfying. Google it!

Plant to Create Shade – Plant deciduous trees and shrubs on the south side of your home to provide shade in summer and sun in winter.

This will cool your home in summer and help heat it in winter. Ask your local nurseries for suggested trees.

Fertilizers – Test your soil first! You may not need fertilizer at all. If you do, apply according to the label and only once a year; spring or fall.

Lightly water to allow fertilizer absorption, but DO NOT apply before a big rain storm, or you will lose your fertilizer to the storm drain, and swimming could be a green mess.

Herbicides and Pesticides – If you do use herbicides or pesticides, use them carefully. Identify the insect or weed, whether you can live with it (dandelions) and then select the appropriate chemical. Often insects and weeds are not the problem. Also, buy only what you need, only use what you need and be sure to follow label directions. Overuse can cause contamination to our waterways via storm drains and potential damage to beneficial insects like ladybugs and bees. recognizes the fact that Idahoans cherish their public lands. That is Jim Woodward. He has the endorsement of retiring Sen. Shawn Keough The Scotchman vote is on the ballot no matter which ballot you vote in the primary. It’s the last item, at the bottom of page 2 on the Republican and Democrat ballots. Vote in favor of the Scotchman Peaks. Then take the next step and vote for people who share our values.

Rick Price Sandpoint

Ahrens for Idaho...

Dear Editor, I am voting for and supporting Danielle Ahrens in our district one senate race for a number of reasons. I have known Danielle for a long time. When I met Danielle she was working to improve the lives of those around her. She was and to this day continues to donate her time and money to charities and organizations that also exist to better the lives of the people in our community.

Danielle understands the issues that are important to North Idaho and shares our values. Danielle works hard and is dedicated to the people in our area. She does not associate with or take special interest money.

Danielle already has a great working relationship with numerous other like-minded leaders both locally

and statewide. She already understands what it takes to be effective and will take that leadership to the Senate.

Danielle is solid on the foundational principals of good governance. She understands the state’s proper role when it comes to the First and Second Amendments, the right to life, education, our lands, business, infrastructure and taxes.

Regardless of where you stand on a particular issue Danielle is always there to listen and works to understand your perspective. The state may not be properly equipped to be involved in the solution. However, we the people working together can accomplish everything that we are interested in working through.

The important thing is having a senator who understands what we the people as the state of Idaho should be doing and what we the people should be doing.

Please join me in voting for our next district one senator, Danielle Ahrens.

Respectfully, Travis Thompson Sandpoint

On the Scotchman Peaks Vote...

Time to quit arguing. Go vote.

Accept the outcome. Move on.

Marjolein Groot Nibbelink Sandpoint

More letters on page 10

PERSPECTIVES

Emily Articulated

A column by and about Millennials

By Emily Erickson Reader Columnist

Eudaimonia

W

hat makes your stomach flutter?

What makes your heart balloon against your chest? What makes the corners of your mouth involuntarily stretch across your face? What makes you feel alive?

We are living in a time where our wi-fi is more connected than we are to the people and experiences that make our lives extraordinary. We so readily choose unlimited data instead of unlimited moments in a day to make space for the things we love. We order an endless stream of shit to be delivered to our doorstep, instead of truly giving a shit about something. About anything.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

In Book One of Aristotle’s “Ethics,” Aristotle contemplated the purpose of life, arguing that as humans, to be purpose-driven is to be perpetually aiming to achieve eudaimonia.

Commonly translated as “happiness,” the Greek word eudaimonia can be understood as something that we desire for the sake of itself, and for no other reason. For example, we can examine the process of going to school when considering this concept.

We go to school for the sake of getting into college.

We attend college for the sake of earning a degree. We earn a degree for the sake of landing a job and accept a position for the sake of earning a paycheck. We cash our paycheck for the sake of obtaining all of the things we need to live and more, and we

Emily Erickson. purchase all of the things we need to live and more for the sake of feeling happy. We feel happy for no other reason than to feel happy. In this case, the happiness is eudaimonia.

Being one of the ”Fathers of Western Philosophy,” Aristotle’s theories have stood the test of time, with the pursuit of Eudaimonia being as important today as it was in Ancient Greece. But what Aristotle couldn’t have anticipated are all of the modern-day roadblocks in our way to achieving it. These roadblocks we’ve installed ourselves, repairing them every day by choosing to hang them on our walls or to carry them in our back pockets.

We spend our time scrolling closeout sales and promo-codes to fill our online shopping carts with things we don’t need, or cultivating contrived scenes of laughter with pseudo-friends to be posted on social media.

In doing so, we simply tack on unnecessary steps to our pursuit of Eudaimonia.

Additionally, when we fill our days plummeting down hashtag rabbit holes or editing last month’s vacation photos (that happened to make our butt look good), we demonstrate the image

of eudaimonia taking precedence over eudaimonia itself. We prioritize making others think we are happy instead of taking the time to actually achieve it.

Every day, we can get swept up in adding more and more roadblocks along our path to happiness, or, we can choose to break our own cycles.

We can focus on making more time to engage in the things we know we love, and exploring more things we don’t know we love yet. We can create space to participate in activities that we do simply for the sake of them bringing us joy.

These choices that we make for ourselves eliminate all of the other aspects of our lives that get in our way, and we get to make them every day.

For me, these activities currently include running on sunny trails with my best friends, reading a book with my toes in the water, splashing colors across a canvas, and taking hoppy sips between laughs and conversation alongside a campfire.

What are yours?

It’s about time to find out.

Retroactive

By BO

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Ahrens for State Senate...

Dear Editor, What is NEEDED of a would-be state senator?

First and foremost a would-be state senator must have a heart for the people they would represent. Picketing places of worship and farmers markets with pictures of the aftermath of abortions “to end abortion in Idaho” demonstrates a lack of heart and concern for others. As a person with a pro-life perspective on the issue, I find the use of such tactics callous, unpalatable and counter productive to any kind of honest heartfelt discussion. Anybody who would use these tactics(Scott Herndon) is more concerned about their own perspective than how to help others. Anybody who would describe Mr. Herndon as a “strong leader” in spite his displayed poor judgment in using these tactics is either lacking an understanding of people, personal integrity or both.

North Idaho’s next state senator needs to a leader who has been chosen to represent North Idahoans before. Not a Boise-endorsed legacy candidate or a self-important Pharisee. Danielle Ahrens has been chosen by the Bonner County Farm Bureau to represent North Idahoans where she has served three terms as the Government Affairs Chairman. She has represented North Idaho well and demonstrated her heart for North Idahoans already. Let’s give her more responsibility.

Respectfully, Aaron J. Curtright Sandpoint

Herndon for State Senate...

Dear Editor, Thankfully, I was able to take some time away from work to attend the candidates forum along with my wife at the BF high school back on the evening of April 11. It seemed there were several decent candidates vying for various positions on stage at the event. As for those running for the Idaho Senate District 1, one individual stood out in particular. His name is Scott Herndon.

In large part, he stood out due to the clarity with which he speaks and his eagerness to bring up the rules (boundaries) that our public servants are bound to support and abide by.

As a good many of us understand, commonly, elected officials begin their term by making a promise or taking the oath, a public promise to support and defend the U.S. Constitution and/or the state constitution of the elected individual. Taking the oath should not be perceived as some sort of antiquated formality, but rather a man’s word, a promise to actually follow the rules. Scott’s eagerness to consistently bring up those rules and the relevance to the current-event political issues that were discussed that evening has me confident that when in office, he honestly intends to keep his word and to actually abide by them.

His platform: to audit the Idaho state government on its compliance with the Idaho State Constitution and the U.S. Constitution.

To actually sit down and evaluate each and every piece of new legislation through the lens of the U.S. and Idaho constitutions.

To reduce the size of the governmental footprint To be a watchman for our constitutional rights His experience: Former Bonner County Jail chaplain.

Among his opponents, he is the only one with a finance degree, which would be helpful considering every bill has a fiscal impact, and, when in committee, must be evaluated by the committee for its financial implications on the state budget.

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was an accountant and software programmer for very large corporations.

Scott is a Father of eight, husband, homeschooler, home builder, woodworker, construction company owner and public speaker.

It is with trust and confidence that I endorse Scott Herndon for Idaho State Senate District 1.

John Miller Sandpoint

Miller for Assessor...

Dear Editor, I am writing to support Richard Miller, an honest and hardworking man. Richard is running for Bonner County Assessor. I have known Richard for many years and have had the pleasure of working with him on numerous projects. Richard has lived here in Bonner County for many years, working to serve his customers as a general contractor.

Through his work, he knows property values in Bonner County firsthand. As a business owner, he knows from experience how to form, develop and sustain a strong task-oriented team. And as a financial manager, Richard has proven skills in budget development and oversight. He will oversee the assessor’s office with skill and expertise.

Many people in Bonner County are living on a tight budget. If they don’t receive a fair and accurate assessment of their property it can put a huge strain on their family budget. Many people I’ve talked to say that when they have called the accessor’s office, their complaints fell on deaf ears. I know that Richard will listen to Bonner County residents and make sure that they are treated fairly.

Richard is a community-minded person. He recently took time out of his busy work and campaign schedule to volunteer his time to help students from Forest Bird Charter School build a ski bench which was auctioned with the proceeds going to support a child in an orphanage. Richard is also a member of the Injector’s Car Club here in Sandpoint. He volunteers in many of the club’s activities, which raise funds for local charities.

I think Richard is the best candidate for the position of Bonner County accessor. Richard is fair, honest and he listens, really listens. He knows budgets and knows how to work as a team. Richard is a vital member of the community and a business owner in Bonner County. Richard has what it takes!

Vote for Richard Miller for Bonner County Assessor.

Terry Ford Sandpoint

Dear Bonner County Neighbors...

Dear Editor, As we get closer to the May 15 Idaho primary election, the rhetoric regarding the Scotchman Peaks advisory vote is getting hotter and thicker — particularly from the opposition. Though I can’t vote in Idaho, I’m certainly prejudiced about the issue. First, if you don’t know already, I’m part of the Friends of Scotchman Peaks staff. Second — and more importantly, I believe — I’ve lived within view of Scotchman Peak and its surrounding mountains for the great majority of my life, almost six decades, total. And I would love to see that wilderness become a Wilderness.

My grandparents came from Kansas in 1917.

My mom was born in Sandpoint in a house at the corner of Main and Division (from where Scotchman is visible). Excepting nine months on the West Coast at the very beginning of things, a stint in Spokane while I was in second grade and an ill-fated sojourn

in Nevada, I have been a local yokel. And, it looks like that trend will continue through the end game.

So, Wilderness supporters are not all freshly arrived from California or back East. But some of us are. And so are some of the opponents. We all came here from somewhere else. Or our families did.

What I wish to point out during this week before the election is the difference between the messaging of the opponents and the supporters of the Wilderness bill Sen. Risch proposed. The opponents have engaged in name-calling, accusation, exaggeration, inflammatory language, histrionics and misinformation.

Supporters, for the most part, have presented calm, logical, verifiable information about what Wilderness designation really means, and what it doesn’t mean. I don’t think many supporters yell at opponents — I know of no such cases, but I don’t know everything — and I know they haven’t charged across a room to threaten anyone. Proponents of the Scotchman Peaks proposal have relied on civil discourse, polite conversation, cool heads and facts — imagine that — to support their cause.

And absolutely no non-biodegradable lawn signs Would you like to know why supporters have been able to do that in the face of all the vitriol and confrontational flak that has come their way since Senator Risch introduced his bill in November of 2016?

Because they know they’re right.

As a local yokel, I urge you get the facts at www.voteforscotchmanpeaks.org and then vote in favor of the Scotchman Peaks proposal on May 15.

Sandy Compton Heron, Montana

Re-Elect Glen Bailey...

Dear Editor, Please re-elect Glenn Bailey for County Commissioner, District One. Commissioner Bailey truly is the most qualified candidate for the job and has the best leadership skills.

I do not always agree with Commissioner Bailey, but he possesses some characteristics I admire. I find I can always reach him to discuss a concern. He is a thoughtful listener, and he is extremely honest. After the Sandpoint Forum, I am also learning he is a man of quiet courage.

The forum was not our finest hour in terms of the behavior of some of the audience. We have reached a new level of disrespect and some like to yell their opinions from the audience. Commissioner Bailey stepped forward and quietly and firmly put the message forward that he was entitled to his say. I guess I shouldn’t been surprised because he is a retired military leader.

This election more than ever, we truly have critical choices to make. The wrong choice can have very destructive consequences. Make the right choice and vote for a man of honor and a man with the right qualifications. Re-elect Glenn Bailey for County Commissioner, District 1.

Diana Dawson Sagle

Engelhardt is Professional Choice...

Dear Editor, I want to share with the voters of Bonner County my professional experience working with Dennis Engelhardt as my manager. Dennis was always supportive of his staff and encouraged everyone to do their best. As a woman in the male dominated law enforcement profession I appreciated the fact that Dennis treated everyone as equal members of the team judged on merits and encourage to improve themselves and their career.

In addition to being a commander Dennis managed the Critical Incident Team for our sheriff’s department tasked with assisting the families of deputies killed in the line of duty. It was while working for him in this assignment I observed first hand Dennis’ compassionate ability to comfort survivors, and provide that level of support and direction needed to help get them through all the logistics associated with the loss of a loved one and a funeral service attend by thousands. With all this responsibly Dennis still took the time to ensure those of us working on this emotional task were okay.

I don’t know what all the duties of an assessor are, but I can tell you that if we elect Dennis Engelhard to the position they will be done professionally and with dedication.

D Pike Sagle

Vote Donna Gow for Assessor...

Dear Editor, Donna Gow is the most qualified and experienced person to be Bonner County Assessor. I have known and worked with Donna for over 25 years and as a real estate appraiser, I have a great deal of respect of her appraisal knowledge, understanding and implementation of appraisal practices.

That is something lacking in the leadership in the assessor’s office and has been for several years.

Having good management skills is a requirement, but having good appraisal knowledge is imperative.

If you do not have a strong solid background in appraising, understanding the taxation process and the procedures and the skills to work with the Idaho State Taxation Department, then you cannot be an effective assessor.

The current assessor was elected based on his management skills. As is evident with the pending class action lawsuits filed by over thirty two taxpayers. The lack of understanding of appraisal practices has and is costing the county and the citizens time and money and will continue until someone with extensive appraisal knowledge is elected assessor.

Donna worked many years as a residential appraiser and is now lead commercial appraiser. She has over 27 years of knowledge and experience in all aspects of appraising, understanding the State Taxation Commission regulations, the Idaho State Code and following Uniform Standards of Appraisal Practice. An assessor with her experience and knowledge is of great benefit to Bonner County and the tax payers. She knows and understands how to correct inadequate and misguided appraisal practices that have been used for several years, how to train the staff and provide them with the best skills and to work for Bonner County tax payers.

If you want change, vote as I will be voting, for Donna Gow and a significant change in the assessor’s office. If you want things to continue in the same manner with the inadequate knowledge and training, then vote for the candidates claiming to have good management skills while having no appraisal knowledge. Think of it this way, would you like to take your car to a dentist for repairs because they have good management skills?

Sheryl Reeve Priest River

More letters on page 12

OPINION

Scotchman Peaks is part of our communal character

By Katie Bradish Reader Contributor

Growing up in Sandpoint, hiking Scotchman Peak was a right of passage. A pre-dawn launch might earn the first spot at the trail head. Better yet, being the first to the top that day gave serious bragging rights. And it still does, as this hike is a crowning achievement of the local cannon of hikes.

My family and our business, Wildwood Grilling, is located in North Idaho because of the land. Sandpoint is our home because of the beauty and phenomenal recreation access to the country’s wildest and most pristine public lands.

Sandpoint is the headquarters of our business because of the availability of raw materials from Idaho’s vibrant working forests. Our company is powered by the trees that grow here, and our company’s continued success depends on healthy forests. We take stewardship of these places seriously. This balance between access and preservation is central to not just

ours, but also our employees’ way of life.

The Scotchman Peaks area is part of our local and communal character. Preservation doesn’t change things now – nothing is being taken away from us, but rather, setting aside this area ensures that it will remain in its current, untrammeled beauty. A quiet place to recreate, where only the ragged sound of your own respiratory system powering you up the hill is to be heard.

From the top of Scotchman Peak, there is a clear view of the confluence of our town, our public lands, and our working forests. This view, this confluence, highlights the importance of preserving this area. Because of this, I am going to vote in favor of Senator Risch’s Scotchman Peaks Wilderness proposal on Tuesday, May 15. Access and stewardship of our lands and resources is what keeps us going – professionally and personally.

Katie Bradish is a hiker, trail runner, biker, snowboarder, skier and forest products professional. She is VP of Sales for Wildwood Grilling in Ponderay.

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Scotchmans by the Numbers...

McDonald for Commissioner...

Dear Editor, As the advisory vote on the Scotchman Peaks approaches, here are some key numbers to consider: 2,500,000 - acres of public land in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest 13,960 - acres proposed for wilderness in the Idaho portion of the proposed Scotchman Peaks Wilderness managed by the Idaho Panhandle National Forest. This would not change with wilderness designation.

Half of 1 percent - percentage of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests land contained in the Idaho portion of the proposed Scotchman Peaks Wilderness 1979, 1987, 2015 - Years in which the Idaho Panhandle National Forest made formal recommendations for Wilderness designation for Scotchman Peaks. Each was preceded by numerous public meetings and opportunities for written public comment.

55 - number of active wildfires in Washington, Idaho and Montana on our smoky day of September 4, 2017 8 - number of active wildfires in Washington, Idaho and Montana on our smoky day of September 4, 2017 that were in wilderness areas 2353 - number of volunteer hours donated by Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness in 2017 0 - acres of existing wilderness in the nine northern-most Idaho counties 0 - number of roads now open to motorized vehicles that would be closed if the Scotchman Peaks is designated wilderness 0 - The acres of the Scotchman Peaks Wilderness that would be open to mining claims and mineral exploration if the area were designated wilderness 15 - The day in May when you can vote in support of Wilderness designation for Scotchman Peaks Wilderness

Dear Editor, Commissioner Dan McDonald is a true common-sense conservative and a very capable county commissioner. He cares about the people in Bonner County. He takes the time to listen to us and always responds to our concerns.

Dan believes in respecting private property rights, and unlike Carol Kunzeman, asked permission before placing a campaign sign on our property.

Dan has served Bonner County well and deserves to be re-elected.

Ken Thacker Sagle

Vote Miller for Assessor...

Dear Editor, The signs are everywhere! So many different people to vote for. I’ve only heard of two of them, I personally know one. I have known Richard Miller for 10 years both professionally and personally. He is a man of integrity, honesty and above all, he’s smart.

We need someone as county assessor who understands real estate and knows whats important to property owners.

Bonner County real estate has gotten out of control. Our young citizens are moving away because the price of homes here have exploded. The elder can’t hold on to their family homes because taxes have gotten so high they can’t pay them. Let’s get someone in office who is smart and will work for the good of all Bonner County.

Vote Richard Miller for County Assessor. The smart vote for all.

Lucy Prewitt Sagle

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Dave Reynolds Hope

McGeachin a True Conservative...

Dear Editor, Would you like to have a powerful but gentle ally for lieutenant governor?

I would!! Janice McGeachin loves Idaho and Idaho citizens. Janice is visiting with the ordinary citizens of Idaho to learn and understand their difficulties and joys at home and in their business.

She with her husband own three small auto businesses and a restaurant and they know the struggles of a thriving business. Realizing how government can destroy happiness by overreach with regulations, as a house legislator, Janice voted to protect our liberties and rights.

As a chairman of the House Health and Welfare Committee, Janice educated her committee on the mandate which forced individuals to buy health care with abortifacient coverage. Bravely, she led her committee to fight against this loss of freedom in our state. Janice also led the fight to protect the unborn and was very articulate in her work to save innocent lives, especially with the Informed Consent Bill and the Ultrasound Bill.

With 10 years of legislative service in the House on various committees, including the Finance Committee, and with the many civic organizations on which she has served as chair, Janice is the one to be our next lieutenant governor. Vote for Janet McGeachin.

Sherry Nuxoll Cottonwood, Idaho

Watch for Turtles...

Dear Editor, With the warm spring weather it is turtle crossing time again. I started watching for them on the road by Pack River on Hwy 200 on my way back and forth to town. I saw one at the side of the road a couple of days ago. He looked intact so I turned around and came back to assist him away from the road. To my total dismay when I picked him up I saw he was alive but had sustained an injury to his head.

Turtles like the sandy areas on the side of the road to lay their eggs. This is why they cross the roads. Please be watchful for them and give them wide berth as you’re driving near areas of water. Their shells are so dark they can look like a rock. If you are so inclined you

can gently pick them up on either side of their shell between their front and back legs and help them to a safer spot.

Cynthia Mason Sandpoint

Russ Fulcher for Congress...

Dear Editor, This May I will be voting for Russ Fulcher for Congress. Russ has earned my vote because he is the only candidate with all the qualifications that are needed to truly represent the people of Idaho.

He is a native Idahoan, a successful businessman, a friend of law enforcement and a multi-term senator who represented his constituents well. He successfully passed many pieces of legislation which is a testament to his ability to lead and work well with others.

There may be several articulate voices calling for your vote on May 15, but there is only one who has the experience to deliver the liberty agenda in Congress, and his name is Russ Fulcher.

Sheriff Daryl Wheeler Hope

Vote for Fulcher...

Dear Editor, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom...” Dickens’ historical novel deals with a time of duality, revolution and resurrection, like today. Our situation is not fictional. Enter Russ Fulcher: candidate for Congress — speaking of wisdom.

The opening line of Dickens’ work seems apropos. The wisdom he refers to is dubious today and the work of politics itself a deviancy, not to say that a wisdom from “outside” is not prerequisite to good governing, should Dickens’ equivalency of times be true for us.

Given the deviousness of the trade it seems counter intuitive to be in politics and claim to be wise. It begs the question if wisdom in politics is an oxymoron?

However, there remains the need to win a strategy of service, rather than manipulation.

Russ Fulcher is a man that draws parallels not so much between his opponents and himself, but between this matter of “politics” and serving, as the parliamentary form of government has it in prime “minister.” I know him. I am not advocating for a god. His candidacy is not of eternal consequence, but mind you...

Fulcher is most sure.

D.M. Hedden Coeur d’Alene

Promises Kept...

Dear Editor, Dan McDonald has spent his first abbreviated term in office fulfilling every promise he made while campaigning. He has brought about cultural change in the county administration and significant savings on the budget side.

Dan has been steadfast in eliminating waste and disposing of unneeded equipment and vehicles, not by waving

a magic wand, but by encouraging and empowering others. He leads by example.

Dan is running to serve another term on behalf of the citizens of the county and to cement the functional culture he has worked to implant in local government.

In comparison to his rivals, he proves the old adage that “a strong leader runs to do something, while the less principled politician runs to be something.”

Please vote for Dan McDonald on May 15.

Teddi Lupton Sandpoint

Miller for Assessor...

Dear Editor, When I vote for Bonner County Assessor on May 15, I am voting for values and experience. This is why I am casting my vote for Richard Miller.

Richard has been a successful independent contractor for many years.

I can speak personally of his dedication to detail in completing a huge remodeling project on our home. He sought new ideas, different perspectives, considered possible outcomes and weighed different alternatives from beginning to completion.

As a contractor he developed excellent communication skills that enabled him to resolve disputes. Richard works independently and manages time efficiently to meet deadlines. He exhibits these qualities with employees, business professionals and public officials.

Richard has worked and volunteered in our community and now would like to continue to give back to his community of 20 years. As a contractor and homeowner his involvement with property assessments make him an excellent candidate for this office. Richard exemplifies integrity, honesty and fairness.

I proudly support Richard Miller for county assessor.

Carmen Poloni Laclede

missioner whose dedication to the job is apparent. He’s gone above and beyond to protect taxpayer interests, and he deserves a second term to continue the great work he’s doing on behalf of Bonner County residents.

Vote for Dan McDonald on May 15.

Tom Cleveland Sandpoint

Support Scotchman Peaks...

Dear Editor, “The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it” (Psalm 24:1). First Presbyterian Church of Sandpoint, an Earth Care Congregation, recognizes God’s call to stewardship, and we care for God’s garden.

Earth Care Congregations is a voluntary certification within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), encouraging churches to care for, restore and enjoy God’s creation. Taking an Earth Care Pledge involves action in four categories: worship, education, facilities, and outreach. Our love for God inspires us to care for this world.

Civil, community-based dialogue is necessary for citizens — it’s important to work together. For some, wilderness areas protect ecological values, others appreciate recreational opportunities, and some experience spiritual fulfillment through the living Christ in the “cathedral of the wilderness.” Whatever your response to this unique area of nature, we urge you to vote “in favor” on the advisory issue on the ballot May 15.

The Scotchman Peaks Wilderness Area is a gift. Congressional designation as wilderness today is an important step ensuring protection for generations to come.

Peace, Andy Kennaly Pastor Marilyn Robertson Earth Care Congregation Team Sandpoint

McDonald: Effective Leadership... Scotchman Peaks Made Simple...

Dear Editor, In his first year as commissioner, Dan McDonald has proven that his extensive business experience managing complex projects and multi-million dollar budgets has resulted innumerable positive changes for Bonner County residents. And his dedication to due diligence has saved taxpayers immeasurable headaches and tax dollars. He’s proactive and carefully evaluates every issue that comes before him before making an informed decision that puts us first. From trimming the bloated county budget to finding a workable solution to the Vrbeta bridge mishap left in his lap by prior commissioners to routinely engaging with constituents, Dan has proven that the promises he made during his first campaign were not empty ones.

Dan — the true conservative in this race — has proven himself to be an effective, competent and responsible com-

Dear Editor, Both proponents and opponents agree that Scotchman Peaks is a great place. Proponents believe that what has kept it a great place is the Forest Service managing it as recommended wilderness since their first forest plan came out in 1987 with broad public support for wilderness designation.

Opponents would prefer to be able to make changes to the way it is managed.

Forget all the politics surrounding the advisory vote and decide if you want Scotchman Peaks to be preserved the way it is now, a great place, permanently. I decided this 12 years ago and joined FSPW. Fits my conservative perspective perfectly: no change.

Will Valentine Sagle

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Kakistocracy...

Dear Editor, Kakistocratic kleptocracy describes the state of our union. Prevarication and obfuscation complete the description.

Webster’s unabridged: kakistocracy, government by the worst men in the state.

Kleptocracy, abnormal persistent impulse or tendency to steal.

Rich Beber Sandpoint

I’m for Carol Kunzeman...

Dear Editor, I try to respect all individuals who run for public office. It’s hard work! I don’t expect them to always think as I do, but I do expect them to listen to my concerns.

This election I am voting for Carol Kunzeman for District 3 Commissioner.

Kunzeman has the credentials and the leadership skills. She is respectful; she listens, and is trustworthy. She has experience with large corporate budgets; she has been a great public servant as mayor and council member in Ponderay and her focus is on “county business” Commissioner McDonald, on the other hand, takes credit for everything, does not know how to listen and generates constant division. He uses his radio show to oppose issues like schools and wilderness such as Scotchman Peaks.

When questioned about the ethics of a county commissioner doing this, his response is always, “I’m entitled to my opinion.” His supporters write letters accusing Kunzeman of running because she is “bored” and accusing her of big “liberal conspiracies.” Really? More make believe and just not nice and not honest.

McDonald’s fuzzy math about county savings is interesting. The numbers change daily, and while cutting other budgets, he led the charge and increased his salary just a few months into office. Cuts for others but increases for McDonald?

Commissioner McDonald should get credit for his hard work. He should also get credit for his poor behavior and bad attitude. Please vote Carol Kunzeman for Commissioner, District Three.

Theresia S Hood Sagle

initially and as a reservist later, shows his dedication to serving our country.

With Jim’s 21 years of military service, work experience in the construction industry and commitment to North Idaho, I believe Jim has the necessary commitment, dedication and experience to represent District 1 in the Idaho State Senate.

Jim grew up in Bonner and Boundary counties. He currently owns and operates Apex Construction Services, a heavy-construction and excavating company, established in 2008. His wife, Brenda, teaches in our public schools in North Idaho where they are raising their family. With confidence, I show my full support for this outstanding individual.

Sincerely, Chuck Winder Idaho Senate Majority Leader Boise

Engelhardt for Assessor...

Dear Editor, Our Bonner County Assessor’s Office is in need of new management.

By that I mean an experienced manager from the outside, who will change the culture of that office.

The slate of Republican candidates include a current employee and a contractor. With one, there will be little change in attitude. With the other, there will be an elected official with no experience managing civil service employees or multi-million dollar budgets.

The only qualified candidate who has the experience, education and ability to turn our assessor’s office into an efficient department with a culture of public service is Dennis Engelhardt.

Dennis will professionalize the office through better training, computer software solid management and supervisory practices, along with courtesy to all property owners.

If you want an assessor who will continue the same culture and practices, vote for one. If you want an assessor with no public employee management experience, vote for the other.

If you want an assessor who will bring positive change, fair assessments and excellent customer service, vote for Dennis Engelhardt.

Sincerely, Jim Kelly Sagle

Supporting Jim Woodward Vickaryous is a Wolf in for State Senate...

Dear Editor, With Sen. Shawn Keough’s exemplary dedication and service coming to an end, Idaho Senate seat for District 1 is open. I support Jim Woodward in filling this position. Jim is a secondgeneration resident of northern Idaho and graduate of the University of Idaho where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering. In addition to Jim’s Idaho roots, his career in the Navy, full-time

Sheep’s Clothing...

Dear Editor, A candidate is running as a Democrat for Idaho State Representative, Seat A, in the upcoming primary election on May 15 who is a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

Bob Vickaryous was a strong supporter of the John Birch Society, which has been described as a radical, far- right organization. He wants to

privatize public education and wants to abolish income tax. His principles are the antithesis of the principles of Bonner County Democrats that call for Idaho to educate all students for success and support conditions that allow all people the opportunity to succeed.

The real Democrat running for Seat A in the primary is Ellen Weissman. As a teacher, she is a firm supporter of our schools and has experience working with young people, and as the director of the Sandpoint Area Senior Center, she understands the needs of our senior citizens.

Ellen Weissman supports efforts to protect our public lands -- while allowing recreational and economic opportunities -- and she supports the Scotchman Peaks wilderness proposal to protect this legacy for future generations.

There should be no question as to which “Democrat” to vote for on May 15. It is Ellen Weissman.

James W. Ramsey Sandpoint

Wildlife and Wilderness: Fact Check...

Dear Editor, Claim: Creating browse is the only management that is important for wildlife.

Fact: There are at least 140 wildlife species in the proposed Scotchman Peaks Wilderness. A large percentage of those species are dependent on the intact unroaded habitat in wilderness areas as an anchor and a corridor for their surrounding seasonal habitats.

Fact: The most effective management tool for game species is through the control of seasons and tag numbers, not habitat manipulation.

Fact: Controlled burns and spraying are not banned in wilderness areas if the action has been carefully evaluated and it preserves the wilderness character.

Fact: Research shows that the benefits of creating more browse for ungulates are very short-term, local and do not affect the population as a whole.

Claim: Wilderness designation will “lock up” the lower areas that are needed for valuable winter habitat.

Fact: Elk do move to lower elevations in winter, especially river valleys where the snow is not as deep, and water is available.

Fact: The lower elevations of the proposed wilderness are generally too high and steep for elk winter habitat. For example, the trailhead for Scotchman Peak starts at 3,286 feet and climbs 3,700 feet in a little more than four miles.

Fact: Elk reproduction and survival rates are negatively affected by off-highway vehicles.

Claim: Access for trapping and other activities is next to impossible.

Fact: All you need is a little sweat, a decent pair of hiking boots, a horse, or a mule.

Sources available upon request.

Bonnie Jakubos Sagle

Wilderness designation will NOT change our use...

Dear Editor, Wilderness is a designated area which will be protected, preserved and managed so as to preserve its natural state. Impact from human activities are minimal — it is a place where man himself is a visitor who does not remain.

I believe that the proposed Scotchman Peak Wilderness area is perfectly suited for wilderness designation, not only because of it being a very beautiful and unique area, but also because it contains quite rugged and steep terrain with no existing roads and few trails which will ensure that human impact is minimal. To truly experience the majority of the area, one has to follow game trails and be prepared to do some major “North Idaho bushwhacking”. That is exactly what makes the Scotchman Peaks so special and that is why I think it needs to be protected, so that everybody can have the opportunity to explore a truly wild place. We are very fortunate to have such an exceptional area in our backyard.

If the Scotchman Peaks area is designated as wilderness it will be administered for the use and enjoyment of everybody in such a way that it will ensure that the area is left unimpaired for all future use.

Jolanda Van Ooyen Sandpoint

Campaign Signs...

Dear Editor, Campaign signs are everywhere.

They are required by state statute 676614a to have a “Paid by XX Treasurer” disclosure on each.

Have you noticed that signs for two candidates lack this phrase? Dan McDonald and Dennis Englehart. The odd thing is that each of these candidates tells us he’s a management expert and the right choice to administer Bonner County.

This isn’t Dan’s first campaign, so the oversight is inexcusable. He’s supposed to be enforcing laws as a current Bonner County commissioner. Dennis E. has been eloquent in letting us know that his management expertise in law enforcement will transfer seamlessly to the assessor’s office. But it hasn’t done so in running a legal campaign.

Both these men have worthy opponents. I encourage you to vote for Carol Kunzeman for Commissioner and Donna Gow for Assessor. They are running capable and legal campaigns.

Kirby McKee Sagle

Common Sense Leadership...

Dear Editor, The primary election is around the corner, and I hope sensible people vote in droves, because we need some common-sense leadership for North Idaho.

If you want elected officials who are ideologues, who embrace misinformation and a fear-based leadership style, feel free to go along with the endorsements of serial letter-writer Dan Rose.

However, if you prefer moderate conservatives in office, leaders more concerned with listening to people of all viewpoints, taking information from diverse sources, and then working to improve our education and economy, while protecting our public resources (including tax dollars), these candidates are ready to work for you: Mike Boeck (State House); Jim Woodward (State Senate) and Carol Kunzeman (County Commission).

Join me in casting a vote for common sense on May 15!

Curtis Eberle Sandpoint

Congrats to Chobani...

Dear Editor, Congratulations to Chobani, who unselfishly grants six weeks with full pay to new parents. It is precisely this kind of offering that changes and uplifts this tired world we live in.

Evie Leucht Sandpoint

Boeck, Woodward and Gow Have Our Vote...

Dear Editor, We have sent our ballots in. We made our decisions based on as much information as we could gather and, where applicable, on voting records.

Based on his opponent’s voting records and her public demeanor, paranoia and fear-based rhetoric, we proudly cast our votes for Mike Boeck to represent us in the Idaho House next session. Mike’s integrity and willingness to study issues and work with all sides involved to reach commonsense, workable decisions will serve all of District I well.

It will take some time for the new senator from District I to gain the respect and influence that Shawn Keough earned and enjoyed in Boise. However, sending Jim Woodward to begin to fill Shawn’s shoes is the first right step in that direction.

Closer to home we have been happy with the infrastructure improvements made southeast of Sandpoint under Commissioner Glen Bailey’s oversight.

And Donna Gow’s experience means she won’t have to start out learning the job on the job in the assessor’s office.

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Mad about Science:

By Brenden Bobby Reader Columnist We’re a lake town, this much is known. Just about everyone has spent some time on watercraft on our beautiful lake, and in doing so probably wondered: How cool would it be to have been a naval commander?

OK, probably not, but naval battle has captivated human beings since we figured out logs can float.

When you think of naval warfare, World War II footage probably springs to mind. Huge metal ships firing artillery at each other and explosions and planes all over the place. The Romans didn’t have that or Latin wouldn’t be a dead language.

The Romans used large ships called trieremes. Each side had three rows of oars: a top row, middle row and bottom row to enhance stability and power of the vessel. You could equate the number of oars to the raw power of the ship.

The more oars (and oarsmen) you had, the stronger your ship and the faster you’d move.

This was especially important in warfare for several reasons, especially since Romans didn’t want to rely on the wind to be able to attack their foes.

The fastest way to cripple an enemy ship was to smash it with your own ship. In the age of guns and cannons, this is a stupid tactic because your ship gets easier to hit the closer to the enemy you get, but before that… Well, why not? The Greeks and Romans developed special battering rams that rested below the waterline, de-

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roman naval warfare signed to be heaved into an enemy vessel with enough force to punch a hole right through it.

At the very least, you could use the bulk of your ship to smash a bunch of enemy oars or maim enough of their oarsmen to disable the ship. Sometimes the Romans would use the ramming to send a group of 20 soldiers over to capture or disable the enemy ship.

Later in history, the Romans would begin using ballistae, giant siege crossbows, to bombard enemy ships at range, as well as onagers and various other forms of catapults for the same purpose. Getting accurate shots required equal parts luck and calculation however, and it was easier to just go full bumper boats or lob flaming pitch at the bad guys.

A Roman warship was probably not a very fun place to be, but despite what the movies would have you think they weren’t run by slaves. As far as historians can tell, serving on a warship was equally prestigious and miserable. To give a modern parallel, think about astronauts. These are guys are the best of the best and every kid wants to be an astronaut when they grow up, but these guys go through hell on a daily basis. Astronaut bone density degrades by as much as 1.4 percent of their total bone mass each month they’re in space, they eat a strict dehydrated diet with zero cheat days, and their training is designed to expose them to forces that causes your blood to stop pumping for seconds at a time. Would they trade this job for anything in the world? Not a chance. It was

very likely the same on Roman galleys. Sailors were manning the pinnacle of Roman military engineering: They really were at the cutting edge of the world.

Oarsmen on the lowest level had it the worst. Sitting beneath everyone else onboard and subject to water splashing in from the oar holes meant they were consistently bathed in a mix of seawater and everything else that comes out of a human body before, during and after combat. Leather sleeves over the oar holes kept some water out, but also blocked a rower’s view of the waterline. This meant the rowing had to be coordinated by officers that could see the water. If you thought managing your two cats and dog was an ordeal, imagine trying to coordinate approximately 300 people all shouting, pulling and heaving on different decks while trying not to catch an arrow to the knee. It turns out the Romans didn’t write down how they managed this feat, so we don’t know how they coordinated rowing.

The Greeks also used triremes, and some rowing songs have become a bit of Greek folk staples, so maybe the Romans were just rocking out while trying not to die. Headbang like your life depends on it!

Did you know that there is an actual trireme in naval military service right now? The Olympias is a fully functional trireme built between 1985 and 1987 in the service of the Hellenic Navy of Greece. Though largely ceremonial (let’s be honest, it’s not stopping any aircraft carriers), it has been tested by as many as 170

volunteer oarspeople at once.

Its most impressive feat was performing a 180 degree turn in less than a minute with an unfamiliar crew. It also transported the Olympic flame to the 2004 Athens Summer Olympics. It’s on display in drydock now but is still seaworthy.

Next time you’re out on

the lake in your old plastic kayak, enjoy the solitude. It could be worse. You could be in the lowest deck of a Roman trireme with your ankles awash in… Well, better not to think about it.

Random Corner s?

Don’t know much about boat

We can help!

• There is a Royal Navy superstition that whistling on a ship can summon strong winds. Traditionally, the only person allowed to whistle is the ship’s cook, as it means he’s not eating the food.

• Despite never having received naval training or participating in naval combat prior to the war, and constantly being outnumbered and out-supplied, Admiral Yi Sun Shin defeated 333 Japanese ships with only 13 Korean ships at the Battle of Myeongnyang.

• A treasure hunter named Tommy Thompson located a ship that sank in 1857 called the SS Central America. The ship carried several tons of gold, and in 1987, he recovered over $1 billion worth of gold from it. He never paid back his crew or investors, and hasn’t been seen in years.

• There is an old abandoned Russian cruise ship roaming international waters since 2013.

• In 2004, a party yacht tipped over when the passengers all moved to one side of the boat as it passed a nude beach in Texas.

• In 2005, a tour bus driver for the Dave Matthews Band released the bus’ septic tank over a grate above the Chicago River. A boat full of sightseers was below at the time, and its passengers were covered with 800 pounds of human waste.

• During WW II, a Dutch warship was disguised as a tropical island to escape detection by the Japanese. It was the only ship of its class to survive.

• An intact steamboat from 1856 was excavated in 1988 under 45 feet of dirt in a farmer’s field. Thousands of artifacts were excavated and preserved so well that some of the food was still edible.

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Trivia Takeover Live 5:30pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Wine and beer specials, plus prizes!

Dollar Beers!

8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Good until the keg’s dry

Open Mic w/ Kevin Dorin 6-9pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Open to local artists over 21, all level of performers welcome.

Food by Edelwagen

Chamber of C 12-1pm @ Di Featuring BN Courtney Wall

Pints for a C Live Music w/ Vance Bergeson Live Music w/ Ron Greene 5-8pm @ 21 5-8pm @ SKåL Taproom 6:30-9:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Local songwriter and luthier Ron will be joined by Tod Hornby and May’s featur of Scotchm Live Music w/ Ben and Cadie Alex Rima. Food by Edelwagen Live Music w/ Son of Brad Daniel Mills and the fea 5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority 5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Goat Brewi Multi-instrumental indie folk duo Songwriter who is spectacular on the guitar music by Ke Live Music w/ Brian Jacobs es, food by M 6-8pm @ Cedar St. Bistro Wine Bar Sandpoint Farmers’ Market Live Music w/ Mostly Harmless 6:30-9:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall 9am-1pm @ Farmin Park Shop for locally grown produce, shop artisan war A fun Sandpoint trio! eat some good food and enjoy live music Live Music w/ John Firshi Second Saturday Artist featuring Jodi Stejer 5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority 5-7pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery A guitarist with an eclectic style Check out Jodi Stejer’s work, with live music fro Live Music w/ Jake Robin p.m. by Greg Mahuguh from the Conkites. $5 dona 6-8pm @ Cedar St. Bistro Wine Bar Ken Fischman book reading “Sleeping with Wol Live Music w/ Trego 12-2pm @ Vanderford’s Book Store 9pm @ 219 Lounge The Reunion: Beatles Fantasy Tribute Spring Cornhole Cl Spokane-based 6-piece 7:30pm @ Panida Theater 1pm @ MickDuff’s B formerly known as FolkCome enjoy the concert that never was. Rain or shine, cornho ception. A high energy live John, Paul, George and Ringo are back up early to guarantee band worth watching for this tribute show. $25 admission toss at 1 p.m., $20/tea

CycloFemme de Sandpoint • 2pm @ Greasy Fingers B Join us as we celebrate and encourage women of all ag Dover bike path to the marina and back (around 8 miles r grandmother or whoever and let’s ride. Men are also enc Bonner General Health Diabetes Support Monday Night Blues Jam w/ Truck Mills Dr. Scott Dunn from Family Health Center w 7:30pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Lifetree Cafe • 2pm @ Jalepeño’s Mexican An hour of conversation and stories. This wee Sandpoint Chess Club 9am @ Evans Brothers Coffee Meets every Sunday at 9am

Ride of Silence Sand 5:30pm @ Sandpoint City Beach 3-5:3 Join other cyclists in a silent, slow-paced ride in Buy honor of those who have been injured or killed sic, s while cycling on public roadways. Helmet required Wind Down Wednesday Transforming Loss: Finding Potential For Gro 5-8pm @ 219 Lounge 10am-2pm @ Bonner General Health Classroom With live music by blues man Truck An inspirational program about positive change Mills. Relax together with friends action by the bereaved in the aftermath of loss. (2 and colleagues at the end of the day 265-1185 for more info

Night-Out Karaoke 9pm @ 219 Lounge

2nd Annual Viking Fest @ SKåL Taproom (476930 Hwy 95 in Ponderay) Channel your inner viking at SKåL, with food by Edelwagen food truck, live music with Kevin Dorin and activities such as a Scavenger hunt bike ride, a costume contest at 7 p.m., prizes and drink specials

Lost in the ‘50s Rock n’ Roll Heaven 7pm @ Bonner Co. Fairgrounds The kickoff to a wild spring weeke featuring Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, Ric Valens and other possible surprises. F tickets, call (208) 263-9321

ful

May 10 - 17, 2018

mber of Commerce Luncheon pm @ Di Luna’s Cafe uring BNSF guest speaker rtney Wallace

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

LPO High School Fundraiser @ Hoot Owl Cafe Support Lake Pend Oreille High School with a fundraiser at the Hoot Owl

Sandpoint Contra Dance nts for a Cause The True Cause of Disease (May 11-19) 7-10:30pm @ Spt. Community Hall 6-7:30m @ Seventh-day Adventist Church 8pm @ 219 Lounge ay’s featured nonprofit is Friends Community dancing for all ages, Can chronic diseases be healed and preScotchman Peaks Wilderness in the New England tradition, with vented? The answer is in understanding d the featured brewery is Iron live music. $5 donation the mind-body connection through The at Brewing of Spokane. Live Paint and Sip Law of Life, presented by International usic by Kevin Dorin. Raffle priz- 6:30pm @ The Pottery Bug Speaker, Dr. Horst Mueller. Free. (208) Paint Monet’s Garden. BYOB food by Mandala Pizza 907-1517. Presentations at 6 p.m. nightly Full Draw Film Tour • 7pm @ Panida Theater Live Music w/ Double Down A film festival uniting bowhunters, fueling out9pm @ 219 Lounge rtisan wares, Spokane duo who play classic rock, southern doorsmen, and creating excitement for all those rock Texas blues, country rock and Americana passionate about archery. $17/tix ($10/student) c Stejer Downtown Sandpoint Spring Clean 5K in May Fun Run 8am-12pm @ Petal Talk Parking Lot 9am @ Dover Bay Barn music from 5-7 Presented by Pend d’Oreille Winery, Time to spruce up our downtown! Meet at Pets. $5 donation this 5K fun run will offer coffee by Star- al Talk / Understory parking lot between 8 and with Wolves” bucks, food by Winter Ridge and prizes 8:30 for assignments. Trash bags and gloves from Dover Bay Resort. Special prizes provided. Pitch in and help clean up Sandpoint rnhole Classic for moms!. Entry fee $5. (208) 265-8545 Bill Collier book signing kDuff’s Beer Hall 12-2pm @ Vanderford’s Books ne, cornhole is back! Sign Yoga on Tap Join veteran combat pilot Capt. Bill Collier, who guarantee a team spot. First 11am @ Laughing Dog Brewery served in Vietnam, for a book signing for his latm., $20/team, $10/person One hour class - $12 includes a beer est book, “CIA Super Pilot Spills the Beans.”

Fingers Bikes n’ Repair n of all ages to ride their bikes at this worldwide event. Casual group ride out the d 8 miles round trip). Grab your mother, sister, niece, aunt, daughter, BFF, wife, GF, re also encouraged to come and show support. (208) 255-4496 Support Group • 10am @ BGH Health Services Building Ste 101 h Center will present, “Diabetes Review and Update” Mexican Restaurant May 17-20 . This week’s topic: “Banning Guns”

Sandpoint Farmers’ Market 3-5:30pm @ Farmin Park Buy produce, listen to live music, shop local wares Beer Hall Bingo l For Growth 6:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Classroom Bingo is back! And it’s free! e change and Bring your own markers (not of loss. (208) dobbers). Lots of prizes

ll Heaven nds ng weekend ewis, Richie urprises. For

Pop-up shop - Melanie Habets 5-7pm @ Evan’s Brothers Coffee A pop-up shop event for local clothing designer Melanie Habets Dollar Beers!

8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub

More than a store, a Super store!

LPO High School fundraiser 5-8pm @ Idaho Pour Authority Help support LPO Alternative High School with Ecliptic Brewing Co. beer on tap. There will also be live music, raffle prizes and complimentary appetizers. Support a good cause!

Girls Pint Out 5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority Join Vicki at the big table for an evening tasting India Pale Ale

Lost in the ‘50s events:

May 18 Vintage Car Parade and Street Dance

May 19 Car Show

FREE Bone Density Scanning May 11th and 12th

9am - 3pm

Other lab work available at reduced cost Free parking and easy access Voted #1 Pharmacy in Bonner County MONDAY-FRIDAY 8AM-8PM / SATURDAY 8AM-6PM / SUNDAY 10AM-6PM

Over 50 beer and cider options fresh salads Sandwiches

pizza and more!

208.263.3024 Mother

[muhth-er] -noun

May 20 Aspirin Rally Run

1. One person who does the work of twenty. For ee.

(See also: ‘masochist’, ‘loony’, ‘saint’.)

(208) 263-0966 Corner of First Ave. and Bridge Street Downtown Sandpoint

Thank mom with a beautiful bouquet, hanging basket or blooming plant from Nieman’s May 10, 2018 /

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PERSPECTIVES

Empty nesters find new life Host an exchange student with the Sandpoint Rotary

By Suzen Fiskin Reader Columnist

Jeanie and Bob retired three years ago, a couple years ahead of schedule. The kids were long gone, and they were finally free to do whatever they wanted to do. Life was good.

One morning, Jeanie woke up before Bob and mentally reviewed her day. She had lots to do, but she wasn’t all that excited about it.

As she made her way to the kitchen, the silence of the empty bedrooms echoed in her heart. She remembered how joyfully hectic life used to be when the kids were still at home. She smiled a private little smile. “Those were the days,” she thought.

For the most part, she and Bob loved being parents. They enjoyed the sleepovers and the school events, the carpooling and even the homework. Sure, it wasn’t all sunshine and roses, but helping shape the hearts and minds of their kids and their kids’ friends felt like they were making a difference in the world.

She made a pot of coffee and turned on her laptop to get her morning news fix.

An article caught her eye that sparked a flash of inspiration that gave her goose bumps.

Bob ambled in and poured himself a cup of coffee. “What’re you reading?”

“A cool article about the Rotary Club’s Youth Exchange Program.”

“You’re up to something, aren’t you?”

Jeanie just smiled. “Rotary has been doing international student exchanges since 1958, and it sounds like a win/win for everyone. They help over 8,000 kids a year do what you did.”

Bob stared into his cup as he remembered his time in Spain as an exchange student many moons ago. He was 17, and it was the most remarkable year of his life. He and the Garcias, his host family, still talk every couple of months or so 50 years later, and they’ve visited one another several times.

Without knowing anyone in Spain and with only a couple of years of high school Spanish under his belt, Bob bravely moved in with strangers, became part of their family, got fluent in Spanish, and came out of his shell to make new friends. His time there helped shape the man he is today.

“I probably should know,” he said, “but I have no idea what the Rotary Club is.”

Jeanie’s fingers were flying across the keys. “Let’s see . . . started over 100 years ago. ‘Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where

people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe and in our communities.’ They’ve got clubs in almost every country in the world. No politics, no religion. It’s all about people helping people.”

“What kind of commitment are we looking at?”

“Hosts can sign up for three or six months. The program comes with training, orientation, the student gets a modest monthly allowance for their personal expenses, and lots of support from the local sponsoring Rotary Club. All of the kids are in high school. This sounds doable, honey.

What do you say that we check it out?”

That was a year ago. Since then, Bob and Jeanie hosted their first student for three months and loved the experience.

Their house vibrated with life again.

Anna is from Brazil. She’s smart and sweet and has a wicked sense of humor.

They drove her everywhere, entertained her and her new friends, made sure she did her homework, and they all got a deeper understanding about their different cultures.

Jeanie said, “She just slipped right into our family. It was wonderful being a mom again!”

Anna’s family came up for a visit during her stay, and Jeanie and Bob went down to Brazil to visit Anna and her family after she returned home. They plan to stay in touch.

Jeanie and Bob signed up to host a new student in the fall. Their only hesitance is that they wonder if another person could be as special as Anna is.

Many hosting families sign up again and again. They love the chance to have that energy of youth in their homes, to share their take on American culture with these kids, and to make a difference in a teen’s life.

In the fall of 2018, Rotary Sandpoint is sponsoring two youth exchange boys – one from Bolivia and the other from Sweden.

There are still several opening for families to host one of these teens (the kids stay with multiple families during their stay here).

If you or someone you know is interested in finding out more about hosting a Rotary Youth Exchange student, you can contact Pierce Smith, the Youth Exchange coordinator for Rotary Sandpoint. You can reach him at: RCSYouthXchg@gmail.com Suzen Fiskin is a speaker, author and photographer who loves to tell stories in her photo show videos. She’s also a relatively new member of the Rotary Club of Sandpoint.

Vote on ONE ballot (R or D). Some endorsed candidates have not demonstrated climate-friendly positions, but are considered the best or only choice of the field.

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US (federal) District 1 (Western ID) US Representative (western ID)

Raul Labrador, R

Luke Malek

James Vandermass

Brad Little

Paulette Jordan

A. Gallegos, R. Fulcher, D. Leroy, N. Henderson, C. Perry, M. Snyder

IDaho state Governor

Butch Otter, R Brad Little, R

Lt. Governor

T. Ahlquist, R. Labrador, D. Cannady, H. AJ Balukoe, Peter Dill Brown, L. Marie, S. Pankay

Marv Hagedorn

R. Arnold, J. McGeachin, B. Nonini, K. Packer, S. Yates Sec’y State Treasurer

Lawrence Denney, R Ron G. Crane, R

M. Smith, C. McNeil

Lawrence Denney, R

Tom Kealey

Kristin Collum Jim Fabe

Joseph JP Chastain Jill Humble

J. Ellsworth, V McIntyre Super Public Instruction

Sherri Ybarra, R

Sherri Ybarra

Jee Dillon

Cindy Wilson Allen Humble

IDaho Legislative District 1 State Senate

Shawn Keough, R

Jim Woodward

Vera Gadman

Scott Herndon, Danielle Ahrens State Representative seat A

Heather Scott, R

State Representative seat B

Sage Dixon, R

Mike Boeck

Heather Scott

Ellen Weissman Bob Vickaryous

Steve Howlett

Sage Dixon, R

IDaho Legislative District 7 State Rep. seat A

Priscilla Giddings, R

Shannon McMillan

Ryan A. Lawrence, Patricia

bonner county Commissioner District 1 (all BC votes)

Glen Bailey, R

Commissioner District 3 (all BC votes)

Dan McDonald, R

BC Assessor

Jerry Clemons

Glen Bailey

Patricia Wentworth

Steven Bradshaw, Bruce Hollet

Carol Kunzeman

Steve Lockwood

Donna Gow

Shirley Kolm

Dan McDonald

Dennis Engelhardt, Richard Miller

Idaho court Judge 1st Judicial District Court

To SUCCEED John Mitchell

John T. Mitchell

Douglas A. Pierce

County advisory issue

Scotchman Peaks Advisory vote

IN FAVOR

“Do you favor Sen Risch's proposal for congressional designation of 13,960 acre Scotchman Peaks Wilderness area in Bonner County?”

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PERSPECTIVES

Get rid of standardized testing in our high schools

By Kaitlyn Turnbull Reader Contributor

In a world where innovation, collaboration, imagination and invention are highly sought out, we still use a common core or standard if you will to determine success. Yes, everyone is judged by the same grid even though we all are different. Why? This question has been haunting me since I began my project. Why do we do this, judge everyone on the same grid or scale? We all have different interests, strengths, weaknesses, and yet, we are all put into the same box, a standard box. This is not just a small school problem either, this is a world problem.

We pride ourselves on our success, and yet, I fail to see how our success is determined by our failures as well as others. We choose to keep this standard, unaware of what it is doing to our future. In 100 years everything will be

Kaitlyn Turnbull. Courtesy photo.

different, except one thing: our schools.

Yes, 150 years ago they had the same basic classroom layout. Some teachers choose to arrange their rooms differently, but you are graded with letters. They use letters to grade product quality. We

are not products, ladies and gentlemen, we are people. It is time that we start treating students like people because they are our future and they, we are the ones who will shape the future.

It may seem like a small success that may take a long time to achieve, but it is a success that will save our future. We teach students history as a requirement and make art, music and social economics an elective. Rather than preparing us for the future, they are preparing us for the past, and I am not saying that history is not important because it is, but weaknesses can become a strong suit in a modified schooling system. Yes, it is important to know the past to better oneself for the future, but we continuously fall back into the same pattern. I believe that it is time to make a drastic change. We need to eradicate Common Core for the sake of our future. We speak of progress, but we seem to fall short every time education comes to the table. I can no longer

sit by as we fall farther and farther into the dark of education. We teach the bare minimum and screw over the students who need more. They teach everyone in the class at the same pace and never seem to notice the student in the back struggling on the test.

We are not machinery, we are people. We learn differently, and we all have different needs. It is a problem that we ignore and we don’t care about the student in the back because one fish struggling to climb a tree is not enough reason to care, according to the standard. However, we are 20 percent of the population, us students, and yet we are 100 percent of your future, and a very small percent of your concern.

Kaitlyn Turnbull is a sophomore at Forrest M. Bird Charter School. She is an aunt and a sister, but most of all she is determined to help create a brighter future.

Saturday may 12th 12:00 to 2:00 pm Vanderford's books 201 Cedar St. in Sandpoint

Buy both of Bill Collier’s books in Sandpoint at Vanderford’s Books & Office Products, the Corner Bookstore, Fiddlin’ Red’s, Di Luna’s, Home Sweet Home Consignment, Sandpoint Super Drug, and Army Surplus and online at Amazon in both print and e-book form.

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For more information: Capt. Bill Collier

OUTDOORS

OPEN 11:30 am

Gardening with Laurie:

By Laurie Brown Reader Columnist After a several false starts, spring is finally really here. The cottonwoods went from bare to leafed out in about three days. The dandelions are blooming. The air feels different. It’s no longer raining (or snowing) every day, so it’s time to get out into the garden!

First is clean up. If there is any dead plant material left on the ground, gently pick up or rake it away. Be careful; some plants, like hostas and milkweeds, come up late and the growing tips of a hosta can be badly damaged by a poorly-placed foot. Don’t use a steel rake; a leaf rake will do less damage if it catches on a plant. Also remove any protection on plants like roses.

It’s time to do some pruning; anything dead, damaged, or crossing and rubbing on another branch should be removed. Up here, roses do not need a hard pruning. After cleaning them up, just remove about a third of the height of the canes. Do NOT prune antique, once blooming roses at this time or you will not get many blooms — they set flowers on old wood. Wait until right after they finish blooming. Clematis also needs cleaning up with some pruners; some types grow new vines from the ground — they should have all old growth removed. If they are budding on last year’s vines, remove about a third of the length of the vines; it will make them branch out.

It’s also time for dividing perennials that bloom in late summer or fall, like asters and tall sedums. Unless you absolutely have to, it’s best to divide spring blooming perennials in late summer. This is a good time to fertilize pretty much everything.

Whether you use an organic fertilizer or a bag of 16-16-16, a balanced feeding is key.

Too much nitrogen (the first number) will get the plants off to a good start with lots of greenery, but they need the other numbers for blooms, disease resistance and frost tolerance. Use an acid fertilizer on rhodies, azaleas and evergreens.

It’s warm enough to direct seed annuals like bachelor’s buttons, calendulas, and nigella; wait until June 1 for marigolds and zinnias. Start cucumbers and squash inside or in a hoop house; don’t plant them out until the soil warms up to 60 F. Start hardening off any houseplants that will spend the summer outside; avoid leaving them in direct sun for more than a short time at first and bring them in at night until it stays above 40 F. Containers can be planted now as long as you have row cover to put over them. Discard any dead-plant material from last year;

GAME ROOM UPSTAIRS

Spring at last!

The Psounbality with Per Muscari. Courtesy photo. the soil can be reused for about three years as long as it had no diseased plants last year and you don’t see any bugs in it. Loosen the soil all the way down. If the soil needs replacing, toss it in the compost pile, and rinse the pot out to remove any insect eggs. Insert annuals, water in well, give a light dose of fertilizer and you’re done for now.

One thing you don’t want to clean up just yet are the dandelions. This early in the season, there aren’t many flowers for pollinators to visit yet, and the dandelions are a good source of food for them. Mow them down before they go to seed, though, or you’ll be buried in them next year!

FRESH FOOD LIVE MUSIC THE BEST NW BREWS

212 Cedar Street Downtown Sandpoint

208.263.4005 A SandPint Tradition Since 1994

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DON’T FORGET TO VOTE Fine Jewellers & Goldsmiths •Custom Jewelry •Repairs

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M AY 15

By Mike Wagoner Reader Contributor

My Yard I mowed my grass today. I’m not really sure why, other than, if I didn’t, I would be viewed as an annoyance by others around me.

I wish I had the courage to just let it go.

Let it gather crickets and wave in the wind.

But wild scenes are not really welcome here. For nature, when left to her own devices will bring in riff raff. Weeds, unwanted vagabonds one sees from time to time struggling for survival along small corridors

or unkempt areas like ditches and railroad tracks.

To offer safe haven to such things as these would most certainly suggest a lack of diligence or purpose on the part of the groundskeeper.

So I must continue to do my part to keep nature where she belongs; framed, and hanging upon my walls, in my child’s storybooks and in my heart.

STAGE & SCREEN

Nothing beats a good hunting story

The Full Draw Film Festival is back at the Panida this weekend

By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff

North Idaho’s love of hunting will take center stage at the Panida Friday evening as the Full Draw Film Tour makes a stop in Sandpoint.

This is Jade Helmich’s second year running the tour, an endeavor he started with a few friends in Lewiston. Full Draw is dedicated to stories of bow hunting and is now in its eighth season. Helmich said he’s enjoyed taking the reins.

“I love seeing all the hunters that come to the show and are excited to mingle with other like-minded individuals and get stoked about hunting,” Helmich said. “It’s pretty hard to beat that.”

Full Draw isn’t something you can experience on your average televised hunting network, Helmich said.

“The films we have on this tour are better than TV — they have a better story,” he said. “They’re not constrained by sponsors and commercial spots. The storylines can be emotional, but uplifting and exciting, too.”

He said there will be chances to win two Hoyt bows, First Lite apparel, a pair of Crispi boots and every child who attends will be entered to win a youth bow.

Helmich said he thinks Sandpoint

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Part of the series “Pursue the Wild,” hosted by Kristy Titus, will run during the 2018 Full Draw Film Fest.

Courtesy image.

in particular will enjoy this year’s film lineup.

“I know people in Sandpoint love their elk hunts,” he said. “This year, six out of the 10 films are elk hunts, so come, bring your buddies, drink a cold beverage and get stoked for the upcoming seasons.”

Full Draw plays at the Panida Friday, May 11 with doors opening at 6 p.m. and the show at 7. Buy tickets in advance at North 40 Outfitters in Ponderay, or online at fulldrawfilmtour. com. Tickets are $15 in advance and $17 at the door. Kids ages 4-17 are $8 in advance and $10 at the door.

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The Reunion: a Beatles tribute concert Little Theater

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FEATURE Everything you need to kno w about the

SCOTCHM AN PEAKS

By Ben Olson Cameron Rasmusson Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff

Editor’s Note: The advisory vote for the proposed Scotchman Peaks Wilderness area has proved to be a bone of contention among Bonner County voters. As an attempt to help explain this complicated issue, we have compiled a feature spread across the next four pages that will touch on what a wilderness designation means, what the political arguments are on either side of the issue, what some of the experts say and, finally, we have attempted to separate facts from myths. Cameron, Ben and Lyndsie all contributed to this feature, so there is naturally some overlap between stories. While the editorial board of the Reader has supported the wilderness designation in the past, we are not attempting to tell anyone how to vote, but rather, we strive to provide you with the information and data you need to make your own informed decision based on the facts. If there are any factual mistakes within the next four pages, please bring them to our attention, and we’ll do our best to correct them on social media before the primary election on May 15. Special thanks to all the advocates and experts who weighed in on these pages.

Myths and Facts (and compromise)

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

-Ben Olson, publisher

A local piece of America’s land management history

By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff

The Scotchman Peaks Wilderness issue is reaching a climax after not just a few decades of debate, but rather almost a century of a familiar American narrative: to preserve, or not to preserve?

Of course, these terms aren’t always used as the narrative develops. Supporters of a wilderness designation see it as “protecting,” while the opposition see it as “taking away.” That narrative echoes the voices of Americans who were instrumental in creating the systems now in place — people like John Muir, or Gifford Pinchot.

The Scotchman Peaks advisory vote will reflect the county’s stance on this singular issue, but what brought us here?

The first preservation of a wild place was in 1872, when President Ulysses S. Grant signed an act that made two million acres of northwest Wyoming into Yellowstone National Park. According to historian Roderick Frazier Nash, who wrote “Wilderness and the American Mind” in 1967, the national parks system paved the way for other types of land designation and gave legislative teeth to arguments for saving places so they’d remain in their primitive form.

Fast forward to the 1890s, when the con-

cept of “forest reserves” created a new type of federal land designation. The National Forest system was originally established to remove some forest lands from public domain. At the time, President Benjamin Harrison deemed more than 13 million acres in the United States as national forests, but what that designation meant at the time was debated. While Nash writes that preservationists like Muir saw no difference between the national parks legislation and the national forests, Pinchot and like-minded foresters saw it as an opportunity for selective timberland management. When national forests ultimately established a purpose — to be enjoyed by the public but sustainably managed under supervision of the federal government — Muir continued on his quest for a true wilderness preservation system.

Enter the Wilderness Act of 1964.

Though Muir died in 1914, his legacy produced the act that preserved land in its most primitive state and promised to keep it that way.

Historian and writer Adam Sowards said that while the final vote in the House of Representatives was 374-1 in support of the act, one must take into account the eight years and more than 60 drafts of the bill it took to reach its final form. During those eight years many compromises were

Photo by Leslie Kiebert

advisory vote

made, and the end result was bipartisan support.

So why has the narrative surrounding new wilderness proposals — like Scotchman Peaks — become so hostile? Some argue the peaks are not “untrammeled,” as the act describes wilderness.

Sowards, a professor at the University of Idaho who specializes in environmental history, said “untrammeled” is a flexible concept that allows protection over places with signs of human activity, like logging, mining or disused roads.

He said Howard Zahniser, who wrote the Wilderness Act, heard activist Polly Dyer use it to describe the Pacific Ocean in Olympic National Park.

“Zahniser liked it better than words like ‘pristine’ or ‘untouched,’ because he knew wilderness wasn’t untouched,” Sowards said. “But untrammeled means something else. It means unconfined. So, untrammeled places are areas where nature dominates.”

An account from 1899 of the Scotchman area’s rugged domination can be found in “Notes of a packer in the Idaho-Montana line survey,” an article in a 1985 issue of Geologists and Ideas. Ross R. Brattain details surveying the Ida-

< see SCOTCHMAN, page 26 >

No matter if you are voting in favor of the Scotchman Peaks wilderness designation or against it, it’s important to separate the facts from the myths. This sidebar attempts to take several claims made about the wilderness proposal and verify whether they were true, false, misleading or undetermined.

Several people contributed their opinions about this proposal: Phil Hough, the executive director of Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness, is advocating for the wilderness while Bonner County Commissioner Dan McDonald has spoken against the wilderness designation. Erick Walker, the District Ranger for the Sandpoint Ranger District, was contacted to determine whether various claims are accurate or not.

“We’re apolitical,” Walker said, in explanation of the position the U.S. Forest Service has taken. “It’s because of the wishes of the public and input from our forest planning process that this became a recommended wilderness area. We are carrying forth the public desire.”

Claim #1: This proposed wilderness is a “land grab” attempt by the federal government to take land away from people in the state of Idaho.

FALSE. The area known as Scotchman Peaks has been managed as National Forest since it was established by President Teddy Roosevelt on June 26, 1908.

The Scotchman Peaks area is part of the Kaniksu National Forest under the Idaho Panhandle National Forest.

Prior to 1908, Walker said many “unknown lands” in the forest reserve were managed under the Department of the Interior before they were later brought under the Department of Agriculture.

“As I understand, it was always part of the public domain,” said Walker.

DAN McDONALD: “I don’t agree with the ‘land grab’ philosophy. It’s federal land. The folks that say they are worried about development – it’s still federal land. No one is going to build homes up there. The idea of the ‘land grab’ claim is coming from the perspective of folks wanting land to go to Idaho, which I’m for, but it’s federal land.”

PHIL HOUGH: “Currently the land is public land managed by the National Forest, since they were created 100 years ago. Wilderness designation won’t change that.

If it’s not designated, it won’t change. This isn’t a question about a transfer of land to the federal government.”

SCOTCHMAN, < <seeseeMYTHS, page 27page > 26 > May 10, 2018 /

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USFS map created at the request of Sen. Jim Risch in 2016. Courtesy USFS. < SCOTCHMAN, con’t from page 25 > ho-Montana border and coming up to the Scotchman Peaks, “which is somewhere near one-mile-and-a-half high. Worse than that, when approaching its base it went alongside a cliff that scared two axe men off the job.”

However, Scotchman since Brattain’s account has seen a fair share of use and management. From the early 20th century designation of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests until the 1970s, areas surrounding the peaks saw new roads, logging, mining and other multiple-use operations.

The first official action taken to put Scotchman Peaks on the wilderness track happened in 1987 with the establishment of the first IPNF Forest Plan. This came after 26 /

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several years of Roadless Area Review and Evaluation (RARE) studies by the Forest Service in the 1970s, and led to an official USFS Scotchman Peaks wilderness recommendation.

The 1987 Forest Plan reads that opposition to the recommendation came from those concerned about possible mineral and timber resources in the area. The report also notes minimal snowmobile use on the northern boundary.

That minimal snowmobile use grew with technology, and resulted in increased motorized uses — including snowbiking — in the recommended wilderness. The years following the 1987 Forest Plan made way for the writing of a revised version,

which the USFS is required to do every 15-20 years, this time with these technological advancements in mind. The 2015 IPNF Forest Plan recommended the Scotchman area as wilderness, and starting that year, the USFS began prohibiting motorized and mechanized uses in the recommended wilderness during all seasons so that the area would maintain wilderness characteristics and therefore qualify for possible designation.

Sen. Jim Risch introduced the Scotchman Peaks Wilderness Act of 2016 on Dec. 8, 2016, to encompass nearly 14,000 acres. It was read twice then referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

Risch’s office has, in the time since, hosted a number of open houses to collect public comment on the proposal. He recently announced that the May 15 advisory vote, recommended by the current Board of Bonner County Commissioners, will inform his decision to either reintroduce or abandon the proposal of Scotchman as wilderness.

Management restrictions since the 2015 Forest Plan have given rise to increasingly vocal community opposition. The Idaho Legislature has expressed disdain for such management in the form of House Joint Memorial 14, which tells Congress they “oppose any ... further designations of wilderness in the State of Idaho without the approval of the United States Congress and the Idaho Legislature.” HJM 14 is not officially a response to the Scotchman proposal, but rather a general statement from the legislature regarding all of Idaho.

The Scotchman Peaks wilderness proposal is but a microcosm in America’s saga of managing wild places, but it reflects the complexities of the century-old concept.

locals sound off on Scotchman Peaks “I’m really for democracy, and democracy is supposedly about the greater good. There’s a lot of divisiveness happening. This issue is being calculated as ‘winning’ and ‘losing,’ but I believe wilderness is part of that greater good. This comes down to basic philosophical differences that don’t actually have to do with wilderness, but something bigger.”

Jeff Pennick Retired USFS forester and Hope resident “Phil (Hough) keeps pumping that nothing is going to change — it’s already changed. All the trees are going to get diseased, (and) if they fall down then you’re gonna have a fire hazard. Are you really protecting it for that? All the people really want is the rocks on top. Ninety-nine percent of people who use the wilderness will go up the peak, feed the goats and go back down — that’s all the use it’s gonna get.”

Pat Gunter Sagle resident who has hunted the Scotchman Peaks area since 1969 “One of the reasons I’m voting in favor of wilderness designation is, if the advisory vote passes and Risch goes forward with legislation, it just guarantees that it can’t be changed. ... The management of game doesn’t worry me.

Where I hunt for elk is usually within wilderness areas.

The reason we go there, in fact, is we generally see more game than we do in other spots. ... I utilize the National Forests as much or more than anybody (for my job managing sawmills), and I still think this is a good idea.”

Alan Harper Backcountry hunter and manager of four regional sawmills for Idaho Forest Group “I am against the wilderness because I believe in healthy forests and wildlife populations, that public lands belong to all of the public, that public lands should be accessible to all of the public and that local residents are the most important stakeholders for any proposed changes to public lands in our area.”

Stan Myers Geologist, hunter and fourth-generation Hope resident “I think that the Scotchmans need to be protected from people like (Secretary of the Interior Ryan) Zinke and (Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Scott) Pruitt, who would let a mining company level the mountain for $3 million worth of ore.”

Jon Burkhart Retired science teacher and Hope resident “(You have to consider) the whole-family aspect. From grandpa to father and mother to children using that together. That whole experience — hunting and fishing and being together outdoors — maybe within a wilderness we won’t lose (those activities), but I’m more worried about the access to be able to get to it.”

Lewis Speelmon Lifetime Clark Fork resident who has hunted and logged the Scotchman Peaks area

The trail to the ballot:

How the politics of Scotchman Peaks evolved over time

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff One might not expect the eye-popping vistas of Scotchman Peaks to be the symbolic site of a political battlefield.

Yet as pro- and anti-wilderness advocates mobilize for a May 15 vote that could well determine the destiny of 13,960 Scotchman Peaks acres, that’s exactly what the mountaintops have become. At the center of that controversy is a question that has consumed Idaho politics: Is the federal government a partner for cooperation or an adversary to fend off?

While the genesis of the Scotchman Peaks Wilderness proposal is decades in the making, its political life took on a new dimension between 1978 and 1979 during the public review of the Roadless Area Review and Evaluation II, or RARE II. During the process, the Scotchman Peaks proposal received 6,100 comments, of which around 75 percent favored wilderness designation. A 1987 public review of the wilderness proposal that designated wilderness preservation for 48,000 acres in Montana and 13,000 in Idaho garnered 315 comments, almost all of which were supportive.

Scotchman Peaks received Congressional sponsorship in two proposals from Sen. Jim McClure in 1984 and 1989 as part of a statewide plan. Likewise, in 1994, Rep. Larry Larocco included Scotchman Peaks in wilderness legislation for the First Congressional District of Idaho.

In 2005, the Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness formed, establishing a conduit for public engagement with the wilderness proposal. According to Phil Hough, Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness executive director, determining the focus of their work was the organization’s first major decision.

“We pretty quickly realized the energy in the room was all about the Scotchman Peaks area,” Hough said.

The Friends began with outreach to major community groups in the region like Sandpoint Rotary, Kiwanis Club and Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce. At the time, the advocates advanced a plan calling for the preservation of the entire roadless 88,000 acres spread across North Idaho and Montana.

Around the same time, the Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness started a dialogue with Idaho’s Congressional delegation. Based on the interactions, it was clear that

the support of local government, the timber industry and other vested interests would be vital in advancing a bill in Congress.

“It was clear from all (Congressional offices,) for legislation to advance we would need to hear certain specific proponents,” Hough said.

As the years progressed, the Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness grew, logging 2,000 members in 2009, 3,000 in 2010 and 4,000 in 2012. They also earned endorsements from the Chamber and Rotary Club.

The major windfall occurred in 2015 when the Bonner County Board of Commissioners and Idaho Forest Group endorsed the proposal, adding cornerstone support from local government and the timber industry.

According to Hough, those endorsements paved the way for the next major milestone: Sen. Jim Risch’s introduction of the Scotchman Peaks Wilderness Act at the end of 2016. According to John Sandy, Risch’s chief of staff, the bill was introduced at the end of the legislative session by design.

“That legislation wasn’t going anywhere,” said Sandy. “(Sen. Risch) wanted something out for people that they could read and decide whether they wanted (wilderness) or not.”

Hough believes the introduction of the bill was also what mobilized the first serious organized opposition to wilderness designation.

“Once a bill was proposed there were some folks who realized, ‘Hey, this is real,’” he said.

Bonner County Commissioner Dan McDonald, who has become a vocal opponent of wilderness designation, said he first saw the rumblings of organized opposition when he was running for office in the 2016 Republican primary. At the time, McDonald supported the proposal, a position that was questioned by some of his supporters.

“That’s when I began to look deeper into wilderness designations and the Scotchmans area specifically,” McDonald said. “Next came the Clark Fork meeting in January of 2017 which I believe brought out numerous members who were opposed and were ready to take some action.”

The meeting, held in Clark Fork Middle and High School, was by far the loudest outcry against the proposal since advocacy began. Opponents objected to perceived access restriction due to the non-motorized nature of wilderness and looser woodland and wildlife management

practices. Some county residents also said their voices had been excluded from the process. It was partly for that reason that the Clark Fork City Council passed a resolution opposing Scotchman Peaks Wilderness in March 2017.

It’s a criticism that McDonald echoes.

“The U.S. Forest Service’s own statute directs them to hold meetings in the populated areas adjacent to the area of impact,” he said. “Not until 2017 was there a meeting in Clark Fork or Hope.”

According to McDonald, he was involved in developing an alternative to wilderness designation. Describing it as a compromise stance, McDonald and other wilderness opponents met with Hough and Risch staffers, but talks ultimately fell through.

“We could have helped find common ground for protection of a hiking trail and the scenic peaks and had actual widespread support,” McDonald said. “It could have been an administrative change that could have been quickly made and all parties would have gotten what they want.”

But Hough said McDonald’s compromise was no compromise at all and cut out the heart of wilderness status: the protection of wildland in perpetuity.

“That’s not a compromise, that’s capitulation,” he said.

Underlying the opposition is the anti-federal sentiment held by many hard-line Idaho conservatives, particularly on issues of land management.

When the Bonner County Board of Commissioners approved an advisory vote in January on whether or not local voters supported the Scotchman Peaks Wilderness, wilderness opponents protested that the word “federal’ wasn’t included in the language.

That ballot question took on unexpected power when Risch said this spring he would honor the vote outcome. The result of the May 15 vote could well determine whether the Scotchman Peaks Wilderness proposal stalls yet again or advances for Congressional consideration. For wilderness opponents and advocates alike, the primary election will be a tense night, one in which decades of advocacy work hangs in the balance.

“We would expect and hope that there is a good turnout,” said Hough. “But it bears repeating that if anyone is doubting whether or not this vote matters, it matters.”

< MYTHS, con’t from page 25 > Claim #2: There will be little to no wildfire management in the wilderness area. When there are fires, the U.S. Forest Service will just “let them burn.”

MISLEADING. While many disagree on the level of management that is appropriate for any particular area, the U.S. Forest Service does manage for wildfire within wilderness areas, it’s just that they may use a lighter touch while doing so than in non-protected areas or areas near homes.

“Basically, a fire that starts anywhere on National Forest, regardless of whether it starts on recommended wilderness area or designated wilderness area, or close to homes, we have a fire management plan that directs us how we go about directing those,” said Walker. “Starts by humans as best we can tell when it starts, we have to suppress that fire. That’s what our fire management plan says. Fires that start by nature, we have more options. We can suppress it, implement a modified strategy and protect points at risk. We may allow the fire to serve its ecological function and serve its resource benefit, regardless of what land designation it is. We take in a lot of factors with how we respond to that fire; the time of year, conditions, what are we already managing. First and foremost is firefighting safety, of course. If a fire is in a place that’s not safe to engage the fire, we’ll step back and engage it at that point. That’s the first thing we ask ourselves, whether it’s wilderness, recommended wilderness or somebody’s backyard. If someone were to pass a wilderness proposal, that would not change. What would change is the authorities for who would allow what type of activities. For me as district ranger, I can say, if firefighters want to use chainsaws, put in pumps, helicopters, I don’t have that authority. The forest supervisor can then say, ‘You can use those types of tools, or use primitive tools for that type of fire.’ We’ve used crosscut saws and bladder bags, and I’ve seen dozers go into wilderness areas.

The authority comes at a higher level, but it doesn’t change how we fight the fire.”

CLAIM #3: I will not be able to ride my snowmobile or snowbike within the wilderness area.

TRUE. The proposed wilderness area does not allow any mechanized access, (except Search and Rescue vehicles on an active mission and wheelchairs for people who require them for mobility). This includes mountain bikes, wheeled game carts, chainsaws or anything that is mechanized.

PHIL: “We’re not saying there has never been any snowmobile use (inside the proposed wilderness area). The main area is around Lightning Peak, which is in the Scotchman Roadless Area, not the wilderness area. The part that’s in the area is seldom used. Only recently they didn’t allow for snow machines to penetrate the area. The bigger picture is, 79 percent of the Idaho Panhandle National Forest is open to snowmobile use. There should be places snowmobiles can go and there should be also be places for quiet travel.”

DAN: “That area was a great place to snowmobile for years (prior to the 2015 forest plan limiting the use of snow machines). … The East Fork area was. There was an old wooden bridge there and it was a shame

the Forest Service took it out. There was also an area north of that where (Friends of Scotchman Peaks) originally pulled back from because it was a big snowmobile area as well. They recognized that, and to their credit, they pulled back from that. But there are still quite a few people who would like to use that area. From an economic standpoint, frankly, the snowmobilers are going to spend more money locally than the hikers ever will.”

CLAIM #4: There will be no wildlife management within the proposed wilderness area.

FALSE. All wildlife, including game and fish, that reside within the state of Idaho come under the management of Idaho Fish and Game. However, while Idaho Fish and Game does manage all wildlife in the state, wilderness area or not, the tools they use and their methods may change depending on how the land is classified.

Chip Corsi, the regional supervisor for Idaho Fish and Game based in Coeur d’Alene, weighed in on this: “Let’s say it becomes a wilderness,” he said. “It can change our ability to use certain wildlife management tools depending on the interpretation of the land management act. So it’s not going to take away our ability to manage, but what it can change is the use of aircraft to monitor and put collars on animals. In the case of Scotchman Peak, we have goats up there that have exhibited habituation to humans to the point of a couple injuries over the last few years. To their credit, the folks at Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness have been working to educate people there. Maybe that’s reduced the likelihood of people going up there with a bag of chips or ears of corn, and maybe get bitten.”

Corsi said, “Our legal interpretation of the wilderness act has been different from some managers. That is a cause for concern.

It doesn’t mean all wildlife management ends because it becomes wilderness. We still stock wilderness areas with fish, we still set hunting and fishing seasons in wilderness areas. It’s just that we’ve seen where that has eroded our ability to use tools that are really important to manage those populations.

That’s a nuance, and it’s a concern for us, but it’s not the same as no management.”

DAN: “I’m a big fan of forest management. If they are managed correctly, the water is cleaner, the wildlife better. A wilderness area, in reality, it’s not managed. … There’s a critical elk herd population up there, a critical mule deer population. If it goes wilderness, even though it’s technically managed as a wilderness area, it’ll present some problems with habitat management.”

PHIL: “The Wilderness Act and Scotchman Peaks wilderness act both say that in terms of wildlife, nothing in the act would impact the ability for the wildlife to be managed. The way they might approach it is somewhat different than other areas. They can manage in fact they do manage, and in fact are required to manage wildlife. … In the case of Idaho Fish and Game, a lot of the management tools they can use in wilderness areas provided they consult with land management agencies, go through minimal tool analysis, and they decide on what’s the least impactful method to achieve their objective. … It’s more difficult. It’s more

< see MYTHS, page 28 > May 10, 2018 /

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< MYTHS, con’t from page 27 > challenging, but I think the extra step to requiring the management agencies to give careful consideration of the impact of their actions is a good thing to make sure that their actions will help to enhance the wilderness characteristics of the area.”

CLAIM #5: Search and Rescue teams will need to seek “permission” from the federal government to carry out rescue operations within a wilderness area.

MISLEADING. Sheriff Daryl Wheeler recently expressed his personal views against wilderness designation on the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

Wheeler claimed he would have to seek permission from the federal government to carry out a rescue operation, and furthermore, that there is a code that has the authority to prohibit the possession of firearms. Both claims are technically true, but misleading.

Walker said, “It’s debatable whether you could call it ‘permission’ or ‘coordination.’ Frequently what happens is that the local forest rangers, if this were to be designated wilderness, we would sit down with Sheriff Wheeler and his staff to develop a memorandum of understanding to describe how we would communicate and how the county and forest would work together on the sheriff’s ability to do search and rescue and law enforcement within the wilderness. … The Forest Service manages wilderness areas, but we do it in the spirit of cooperation with state and local governments. … We do not put up barriers to the sheriff or other EMS providers to go in and do their job.” (for Walker’s answer to the firearm code, see next claim).

CLAIM #6 : Hunting and fishing will both be allowed in the proposed wilderness area.

TRUE. There are no restrictions placed on hunting or fishing inside a wilderness area. Furthermore, according to Walker, “The use of firearms is totally appropriate in wilderness areas, as legal means to hunt and fish.

Wilderness doesn’t change that. The retrieval of game using game carts would be prohibited, but we don’t restrict firearms. There is some obscure code of federal regulations (CFR) that says the Forest Service can restrict possession and use of firearms in wilderness, but we checked regionally, nationally and specifically in Idaho and we know of no instance where a local line officer or ranger has taken that CFR and put it forward. … That’s not in our forest plan, but Sen. Risch may be able to specifically address that in his legislation.”

DAN: “Guys in their 70s and 80s have been hunting that area since they were young. They shoot one now, and they can’t pack it out on a wheeled game cart. You get a heart for that, and you realize it’s disenfranchising folks from using it for more than just hiking.”

Alan Harper, a backcountry hunter and manager of four sawmills for Idaho Forest Group, said he is “fully in favor of this proposal, and that’s coming from a guy who buys 420 million board feet of lumber a year. …

When my family and friends go hunting, we go in on horseback to get far enough away from the parking lot and the people that would want to walk. The fewer amount of people you have in the area, the less pressure you have on the wildlife, which makes it a more quality hunt. … By designating wilderness, it guarantees for me and my kids and my grandkids that it will always be there for a place to get away from the masses. … (Regarding the wheeled game cart usage) I think that it’s something that would be a good discussion point once we get past the advisory vote. … At the same time, I have a hard time believing there are very many people that are not physically capable of carrying a quarter that are going to hike back into that backcountry anyways, but who am I to say that you can’t?”

CLAIM #7: This wilderness plan discriminates against disabled people because it doesn’t allow wheelchair access inside a wilderness area.

FALSE. According to the Wilderness Act, “Congress reaffirms that nothing in the Wilderness Act prohibits 28 /

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wheelchair use in a wilderness area by an individual whose disability requires its use.” This means that manual or battery-powered wheelchairs or mobility devices are allowed with no restrictions.

CLAIM #8: A wilderness designation was proposed for the Scotchman Peaks area because it is an area completely untrammeled by man.

FALSE. There are many areas within the proposed Scotchman Peaks Wilderness area that have been used by man prior to recommended wilderness designation.

Prior to 2015, snowmobiles were allowed access inside the recommended wilderness area, and there are several access roads still in existence within the boundaries, though not maintained. There is also evidence of past logging operations inside the boundaries.

Ranger Walker said, “There is nothing in the Wilderness Act that says the land should show no signs that human existence was ever there. … The Wilderness Act doesn’t say man’s sign shouldn’t be there, but going forward, man’s presence is not there for more than an overnight stay.”

DAN: “There are many photos of the proposed area for Scotchmans that show logging roads, old clear cuts, etc. Up until 2015, mountain bikes, snowmobiles and other motorized and wheeled access was happening.”

CLAIM #9: Because of the “Heartbeat Rule,” only a certain number of people will be allowed to access the wilderness area at a time.

FALSE. The so-called “Heartbeat Rule” is a common rule of wilderness areas, limiting group sizes to lessen the impact on the trail system, but not limiting access of how many groups may use the area at one time. The standard under the forest plan is 12 heartbeats, which includes stock. For example, five people on horseback with the family dog would count as 11 heartbeats. While group sizes are usually limited to 12 heartbeats, there is no rule or time period in effect that prohibits the next group of 12 heartbeats from following the first group.

In other words, there may be any number of groups accessing the wilderness area, so long as the individual group sizes are under 12 heartbeats.

“To change this number, Sen. Risch could reflect a new group size within his legislation to be put into a new wilderness management plan,” said Walker. “In the absence of that, it would fall back to 12.”

DAN: “I think it shows the potential issue with restricted use. If you refer to a document the FSPW put out, they note a number of trails that have even tighter restrictions from the 12.”

PHIL: “It’s not 12 heartbeats per day, it’s 12 per group. You can have any number of groups on the trail at any time. That’s done to limit the impact on the trail and environment. The intent is to provide for a greater sense of solitude on the trail, as well as impact on wildlife and individuals.”

CLAIM #10: There will be no resource extraction from the proposed wilderness area, including timber or ore extraction.

TRUE. “Nothing comes to mind where (the Forest Service) has established wilderness areas and we’ve gone in and done extractive uses,” said Walker. “There may be, with Rock Creek Mine, as an example, a proposal to take mineral resources from underneath, by approaching it outside the area and going in to take it out. As far as surface activities, though, that’s correct.”

PHIL: “Wilderness is about preserving timber. The timber that’s in the Scotchman Peaks is so remote and hard to get to that it’s not considered economically viable. The forest plan allocates small areas for wilderness – this one is one-half of one percent of all the land in Idaho.”

DAN: “The inability to extract is again another fallacy as we see evidence of past extraction as noted by the old logging roads and clear cuts. From what I’ve seen, ore extraction played out 100 years ago, however

< see MYTHS, page 30 >

MUSIC

This week’s RLW by Lyndsie Kiebert

‘All You Need Is Love’:

READ

I’ve probably suggested it before, but since I just read it for the fifth time, it’s worth suggesting again. Miranda July’s short story “How to Tell Stories to Children” explores the relationship between 30-something Deb and a young girl named Lyon. Deb, who is friends with Lyon’s father, becomes the dominant adult in the girl’s life thanks to an unbearable home life, but in the end, Deb is a mother to no one. There’s a twist that will make your heart audibly shatter, and July’s quippy, dark prose just turns the knife. Find the story in July’s 2007 collection “No One Belongs Here More Than You.”

The Reunion fantasy Beatles tribute band to play the Panida

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff A Beatles reunion tour in 2018 might be impossible, but Wayne Coy isn’t one to let that stand in his way.

Fab Four fans of the modern day are just as interested in seeing John, Paul, George and Ringo performing live as audiences 50 years ago. When The Reunion: Beatles Fantasy Tribute hits the Panida Theater this Saturday, music lovers will come as close as possible to an in-the-flesh Beatles reunion.

“We decided to do something a little different (from a normal tribute band,)” said Coy, the show producer. “We ask audiences to suspend reality and imagine what it would look like if the Beatles could perform today.”

While most tribute bands learn to recreate the greatest hits and call it a day, The Reunion takes the tribute band concept a step farther. It asks audiences to imagine that The Beatles have reunited in 2018 for a new tour that encompasses both their col-

laborative and solo careers. Obviously, that’s impossible— two of the Beatles are dead, after all.

But once audiences suspend their disbelief, they’ll see a mature, convincing take on the legendary rock band unlike any other.

To that end, the talented folks playing the role of the Fab Four are both musicians and actors, fully inhabiting the voices and mannerisms of their characters.

Drew Harrison plays John Lennon, Adam Joel plays Paul McCartney, Nick Bold plays George Harrison and Terry Carleton plays Ringo Starr in a line-up that captures The Beatles’ personalities and unique interplay.

“I just thought to myself, ‘There’s gotta be more than one way to pay tribute to the greatest rock and roll band of all time,’” said Coy. A fifth member of the team helps bring the lush, orchestral sound of many Beatles songs into the context of live performances. Coy said Tommy Cossentio, the show’s musical director, is essential into maintaining the cohesion that makes

Summerfest: It’s ba-ack!

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

Sometimes you can’t keep a good thing down.

When Sandpoint Summerfest organizers announced that 2017 would be the last year for the popular annual music festival in Sagle, many expressed their sadness to see such a good thing go.

However, due to an overwhelming outcry from the community, Sandpoint Summerfest will again take place this summer on July 13-15.

“People within the community have stepped up to lend a hand and to help financially, ultimately allowing this festival to continue,” read a statement by the Eureka Institute, the concert organizers.

Robb Talbott of Mattox Farm

Productions and Rob Smith from the Hive are helping book entertainment, while others in the community have stepped up to help with everything from advertising to site preparation.

Summerfest is hosting a lineup release party at Eichardt’s Pub on Thursday, May 17 at 6 p.m. There will be live music

by Brian Stai and BareGrass.

Tickets for Summerfest will be available at a 15 percent discount during this night only. There will also be giveaways and info about the Eureka Institute, a nonprofit community organization committed to lifelong learning and leadership through education, experiential and recreational programming for youth.

For more information, check out www.eureka-institute.org.

LISTEN

The Reunion an authentic Beatles experience.

“He’s the glue that holds the show together,” Coy said.

The Reunion got its start in the Bay Area in 2010 by Got Live Entertainment, a company Coy heads up as president. The show has since earned critical acclaim, and after some cast changes in recent years, Coy believes they

Courtesy photo. have perfected the concept.

“The current cast is the best we’ve ever had,” he said.

Catch The Reunion: Beatles Fantasy Tribute 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 12, at the Panida Theater. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at www. panida.org or at the door.

The vision of panelized, realized.

www.mehomes.net (208)264-6700

Dan McMahon, Gen. Contractor dan@mebldg.com

I’m a sucker for a good girl band. I’m not talking Fifth Harmony, or any other female pop group that dominates the radio, but actual girl bands where the women play the instruments and write the songs and are, in general, badasses. The Aces are exactly that. Their recently-released first LP, “When My Heart Felt Volcanic,” is packed with surf-rock feels, addicting melodies and relatable but crafty lyrics. My top tracks are “Volcanic Love,” “Put It on the Line” and “Fake Nice.”

WATCH

Donald Glover/Childish Gambino is firing on all cylinders as of late. He’s hosting Saturday Night Live, winning Grammys, starring on TV and in movies — you name it, Glover is making noise, and now he’s using his platform to address race issues in America. His music video for “This is America,” released last weekend, is graphic, but packed with meaning. Warning: It’s not for the faint of heart. Violence dominates the video, but it’s often in the background as images of happy, young black people dance, distracting from the tragedy and unrest.

It’s an interpretation of today’s world that’s worth a view.

May 10, 2018 /

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< MYTHS, con’t from page 28 > there is a great deal of timber in the proposed area that can and should be managed.”

CLAIM #12: There are no exceptions allowed with wilderness designations.

From Sandpoint News Bulletin, April 10, 1941

BIG IMPROVEMENT MADE IN BEACH Dreams of Sandpoint’s beach project were being realized more fully this week with the transformation of the waterfront from a pile of sand and muck to the future haven for this city’s populace on warm summer days.

Fir and spruce trees which were donated by the American Legion have been transplanted around the bath and concession house and the ground surrounding being prepared and partially planted in lawn.

The crew is at present laying forms for the concrete curbing which will circle the bath house and lead down to the waterfront, providing parking space for cars. Sidewalks will also be laid soon.

FALSE. Most wilderness designations have some form of exceptions written into the enabling legislation.

In the Frank Church River of No Return, for example, the inclusion of an airstrip and the allowance for jet boat usage in the river are exceptions.

THOUGHTS ON POTENTIAL COMPROMISES Sen. Jim Risch wrote in an op-ed to the Reader that he will rely on Bonner County voters to inform him whether to re-introduce the wilderness designation or not. “This bill was initiated by the Bonner County community and now, appropriately, its outcome will be determined by the community,” Risch wrote.

So what happens if you don’t want the wilderness designation and the vote passes “in favor?” If Sen. Risch is true to his word, he will re-introduce enabling legislation that attempts to formally declare the Scotchman Peaks area as wilderness. But there is the possibility for those who don’t favor the designation to lobby for potential exceptions on certain issues with Sen. Risch.

“As long as Sen. Risch puts in the enabling language for the bill to allow for something to happen, it’s possible,” said Walker. “If Sen. Risch says to allow game carts in (the wilderness) for example, then we would manage that accordingly. If the senator doesn’t have specific language with that, we couldn’t do that, as it would be in violation with the law. It really goes to that enabling legislation to what activities can or cannot occur.”

IS THERE A POTENTIAL FOR COMPROMISE? DAN: “Right before I took office in 2017, I was contacted by a good sized group in Clark Fork concerned about Scotchman Peaks. … We came up with a starting point for compromise discussions. Our idea was to secure all of the scenic peak area down to a certain elevation, secure a trail, then give buffer zones to provide for an unencumbered hiking trail with no wheeled vehicles on it. … It accomplishes what they want, but it wouldn’t be wilderness. It’s missing the permanence which was a sticking point for a number of folks.”

PHIL: “This isn’t our wilderness proposal, it was

a recommendation made by the Forest Service. We support the Forest Service’s recommendation. That’s a really important fundamental distinction for several reasons. We advocated for the entire 88,000 acres. This bill does not include all of that. It includes a portion of the Idaho Panhandle National Forest in Idaho. There are areas, significantly areas around Lightning Peak, that are in the roadless area but not in the wilderness proposal. So in that very real sense, there has been a compromise already in terms of what we’d like to see and what the forest plan recommends. We are supporting the forest plan because it is a compromise that was created during a 12-year process of forest planning with many stakeholders around the table looking at many resource values across the entire landscape.

When you look at the big picture map of that 2.5 million acres (total acreage of IDPNF), 38 percent of it is open for suitable timber production, 79 percent is open for motorized, mechanized use over the snow. … There are places that should be protected as wilderness, and we believe the Scotchman Peaks is one of them. And at a mere 14,000 acres, it’s a fairly modest proposal. It’s already a compromised position. Dan will tell you about his compromise, but it’s not a compromise, it’s a proposal. It hasn’t gained the support of anyone other than he and the folks that put it together. It contains zero acres of wilderness, so it’s not a wilderness compromise. …

It’s not been reviewed, as far as we can tell, by resource professionals. It hasn’t had the public vetting process. …

You’d really have to open up the planning process again … that process took 12 years, it was reviewed numerous times by the public, there were opportunities for public input both in meetings and written comment form, and it produced this result. So, to go back and say ‘Let’s look at it again,” doesn’t acknowledge the process that went on for more than a decade.”

What are your thoughts about the outcome of the advisory vote?

PHIL: “We’re hopeful for a positive outcome, and after the May 15 primary election, we’ll be moving forward to seeing a bill re-introduced for Scotchman Peaks.

what our position will be as commissioners. … Quite frankly, if it does get voted down, there’s still a place to come and look at the original compromise. I can’t guarantee that, but I wouldn’t have a problem looking to the opposition and helping to broker that deal.“ FINAL THOUGHTS: DAN: “If anybody knows anything about me, it’s that I’m a big fan of balance and equal access. This (proposal) almost looks like a special favor. It’s almost 14,000 acres.

That’s a big chunk. … With respect to Scotchmans, I can only speak for myself. Where there’s forest management, there’s value. When there is value, it’s much better cared for. I have 560 acres and we have forest management issues we plan for. We deal with erosion issues and bark beetles. … We take care of it and manage it. … If you’re passionate about it, get out and vote.”

PHIL: “Wilderness has economic value. Part of it is tourism. Part of it is the quality of life. … There are a number of economic studies out there … that touch on what makes western economies thrive. They have found a very direct correlation between the most prosperous rural western economies having some of their lands in a protected status like wilderness or National Parks. Those economies that are really thriving have that combination. Think about the big picture of that. We are fortunate here in Sandpoint and Bonner County to have a wonderful lake, a great ski hill, backcountry and places like the Scotchman Peaks - these things are economic drivers, these things attract business to grow and thrive here. Look at the businesses that are growing here to able to attract management talent, labor talent because we have this quality of life. … There are 47 light manufacturing companies located in Bonner County that are here in part because their owners and staff want to be in a place where we can enjoy that full range of quality of life. Wilderness is one part of that. It’s not the only one, but it’s one. When you look at that whole package, that’s what makes things drive – finding that balance.”

Crossword Solution

DAN: “However the vote goes, that’s how we will go.

We will sign a letter and ratify it if it passes. If opposed, we will oppose it. … The vote will give us a true picture.

It’s the American way. It’ll be a fair way to determine

PROGRESSES RAPIDLY With warm weather continuing, the pond of stagnant water at the rear of the beach between the diked-in portion, which is 2,065 feet high, and the railroad track, will soon be evaporated and the program calls for dredging to level off the diked portion which will form a gravel road around the beach and give enough body for the lawn which will be planted in the lower section to form a sunken garden where picnics and the regular park facilities will be stationed.

The interior of the new bath house is rapidly nearing completion with plastering, installing of plumbing and staining being done. The roof of the stucco building is set off by staining the shingles green.

30 /

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/ May 10, 2018

Let’s be honest: isn’t a lot of what we call tap-dancing really just nerves?

Copyright www.mirroreyes.com

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1. Store 5. Flooded 10. Venician magstrate 14. Expect and wish 15. Hindu social division 16. Not odd 17. Expatriation 19. Delay or postpone 20. Large flightless bird 21. Toward the outside 22. Verrucas 23. Goddess of divine retribution 25. Cogwheels 27. New Zealand parrot 28. Racetrack touts 31. Heretofore (2 words) 34. They make wool 35. French for “Water” support an informed community 36. Weight to be borne 37. Ganders Want to support us? Donate a buck a month!

38. Desire www.patreon.com/sandpointreader 39. Some people chew this 40. Anxiety 41. Donkeys 42. Rotor coil /pan-TOF-uh l/ 44. Prompt [noun] 45. Jagged of the 1. A slipper 46. Demean 50. Razor sharpener “A good book and a pair of pantofles: the perfect rainy Sunday.”

52. Hebrew unit of weight Corrections: We dropped an “I” in the headline of our story about the Sand- 54. Man’s best friend point City Council requesting an EIS statement from BNSF for the second rail 55. Place 56. Handrail bridge. -BO

READER

Word Week

pantofle

Solution on page 30 8. Excessively conventional 9. Female chicken 10. Leave 11. Supervisors 12. Lady’s escort 13. Concludes 18. Adjust again 22. Stinging insect DOWN 24. Barely managed 26. Type of sword 1. Gloss 28. Not those 2. French for “Man” 29. Anger 3. Codeine source 30. Litigates 4. Dowel 31. Diatom 5. Sweet wattle 6. Electrical power units 32. Not sweet 33. Complainers 7. Largest continent 58. Makes a mistake 59. French for “Storehouse” 60. Hens make them 61. An amount of medicine 62. Segments of DNA 63. Red vegetable

34. Discriminate 37. Wildebeests 38. End ___ 40. At the peak of 41. A quantity of no importance (archaic) 43. Excite 44. Stops 46. Stone fruit 47. Proverb 48. Avoid 49. Excrete 50. Toboggan 51. Novice 53. Dash 56. Implore 57. Confederate soldier May 10, 2018 /

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"Having decades of management and administrative experience at the county government level, I can offer common-sense leadership and management to benefit both property owners and the employees of the Assessor's Office."

DENNIS ENGELHARDT ! ; ,; r ! for Please Assessor! Idaho Primary Election May 15, 2018

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FAIR ASSESSMENTS TRANSPARENCY ACCESSIBILITY CULTURE OF PUBLIC SERVICE

----- www.engelhardtforassessor.com Paid for by Engelhardt for Assessor I Debby Stutler - Treasurer