October 25, 2018

HAPPY HALLOWEEN! ALL THE HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS LEGISLATIVE CANDIDATE QUESTIONNAIRE CANDIDATES COVER THE ISSUES AT FORUM FULCHER, LITTLE AND MORE VISIT PONDERAY ...AND MUCH MOREi

The Woodward Family: Jim, Brenda, Avery and Anna, celebrating 23 years of marriage.

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(wo)MAN compiled by

Susan Drinkard

on the street

Elect Stephen F. Howlee READER Idaho State Representaave District 1 Seat B

Stephen Supports: • Agriculture.

•Proposiaon 2 • Property Tax Reducaon.

• Economy that works for Idaho.

• Access to Healthcare.

• Invesang in Educaaon.

• Mulaple use of Public Lands.

• Collecave Bargaining

What will you be for Halloween?

“A princess. I am going to wear my blue dress and tiara.”

Bailey Lindgren Age 4 Selle Valley Paid for by Howlett for the House

Vote November 6, 2018 for Stephen F. Howlee District 1 Seat B ssowleeoridahodistrict1b.com

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: Jack Cain (cover), Ben Olson, Susan Drinkard.

“I am going to go as my favorite professional soccer player.

He’s Son (Heung-Min) from South Korea.”

Contributing Writers: Cameron Rasmusson, Ben Olson, Lyndsie Kiebert, Sen. Shawn Keough, Mayor Shelby Rognstad, Scarlette Quille, Brenden Bobby, Erik Daarstad, A.C. Woolnough, Shannon Williamson, Marcia Pilgeram, Drake the Dog.

Harrison Giles Home schooled fourth grader Sandpoint

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“Mario and Luigi.”

Miles and Marshall Lindgren Bonners Ferry

“Transformer — Bumblebee!”

Ayrton Sylvia Age 3 Sandpoint

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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 pa 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.

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

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“I’m going as the scariest thing I can imagine: a human.”

Casper the (not so) friendly ghost Six feet under Sandpoint

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About the Cover

This week’s spooky cover photo was taken by Jack Cain.

Please note: the red eyes were added by degenerate publisher Ben Olson to make that feline look even scarier.

October 25, 2018 /

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NEWS

Candidates cover the issues at forum

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff Nearly 200 people turned out for a candidate’s forum Tuesday night at the Sandpoint Library, where more than a dozen hopefuls for public office asked for citizens’ votes.

Among the many issues discussed during the forum, the proposed Newport smelter provoked some of the most animated discussion. With widespread opposition to the project organized in both Idaho and Washington, candidate stances ranged from a wait-and-see approach to vocal opposition. Bonner County District 1 commissioner candidates Steve Bradshaw, Republican, and Steve Johnson, Democrat, were both strongly opposed, with Bradshaw saying the land deal that provided the property for the proposed site was done illegally.

District 3 commissioner candidates Dan McDonald, Republican, and Steve Lockwood, Democrat, sparred over the issue, with McDonald saying the county’s legal team advised against taking a position until environmental impact statement data was available. Lockwood claimed McDonald hadn’t done enough to represent the county’s interests in the matter, saying that his wait-and-see approach was inconsistent to his support for the proposed Rock Creek Mine in Montana.

Rep. Heather Scott, up for reelection as District 1’s Republican representative, said that not enough is being done to evaluate the

smelter’s potential impact on the area and has worked to mobilize people around the issue, sending out informational letters, seeking legal representation and contacting state officials on the matter. Likewise, her opponent, Democrat Ellen Weissman, said that she opposes the smelter and that everything she’s learned about it indicates it will be disastrous for the local environment.

Rep. Sage Dixon, also up for reelection as District 1 Republican representative, took a more moderate approach, saying he was waiting for more information to be released. In contrast, his Democratic opponent, Stephen Howlett, said he was strongly opposed, saying the plant could result in environmental problems like acid rain.

Jim Woodward, a Republican up to replace the retiring state senator Shawn Keough, said he wanted to evaluate the project with hard science but nevertheless shared concerns and had little interest to see it built in the region. His opponent, Vera Gadman, did not attend the forum.

On Medicaid expansion, up for a vote this year as Proposition 2, Woodward said that while he prefers other solutions, the Proposition 2 ballot initiative is a valid approach to the problem. Both Scott and Dixon opposed it, saying it would eventually be a financial burden for Idaho and that government had no place in health care. Weissman and Howlett supported expansion, with Weissman saying she’s met many locals who have no access to health

care.

McDonald said assertions that Bonner County commissioners recently gave themselves a $10,000 pay raise is inaccurate, asserting that the county uses a third-party agency to determine average compensation for county positions and that commissioners approved raises for elected officials on the advice of the Human Resources Department. Lockwood and Johnson said a $78,000 commissioner salary is unnecessary and that they would either decline or donate the pay bump. Bradshaw incorrectly claimed the average Idaho salary for commissioners is over $100,000 (in fact, according to the 2018 Idaho Association of Counties Salary and Benefits Study, the average salary is just over $39,000, with

County will not settle lawsuit

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff A law firm representing Bonner County pushed back Wednesday against a wrongful termination lawsuit filed against the county by former airport director James Kaiser.

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Bonner County’s attorney, Colton Boyles of the Davillier Law Group, said he has no intention to settle what he believes is a spurious lawsuit. Kaiser claims in the lawsuit he was fired for calling out tax dollar waste related to airport business manager Dave Schuck, who he alleges was protected from termination because of his family relationship to Bonner County Commissioner Dan McDonald.

“We believe the evidence will show that the complaint is without merit and contains false and potentially defamatory allegations, not only against Commissioner Dan McDonald and part-time airport manager Dave Schuck, but other County employees as well,” Boyles wrote in a statement. “We look forward to the opportunity to defend their good reputations in court, and have the facts come to light.”

Ada County alone having a commissioner salary over $100,000).

When asked why he did not serve out full terms for two public offices, Lockwood said he had to resign a school board position when he joined the Sandpoint City Council, which he later left due to health issues. McDonald said that whatever the case, voters could count on him to serve the full four years.

Bonner County Assessor candidates Donna Gow and Wendel Bergman both cited their experience — Gow in the Bonner County Assessor’s Office and Bergman in the private sector — as qualifying characteristics. Bonner Soil and Water Conservation District candidates Dale Van Stone and

Nearly 200 people attended the candidates’ forum at the Sandpoint Library Tuesday evening. Photo by Ben Olson.

Terry McGuirk, both incumbents seeking to retain their offices, said their love for the county’s natural resources fueled their public work.

Their opponents, Allen Banks and Thomas Clark, did not attend the forum.

Candidates covered many additional topics in the two-anda-half-hour forum. To hear it in its entirety, listen to the podcast at http://www.krfy.org/podcast/ and select the most recent upload under “Other Podcasts” on the right-hand side.

Dispose of your expired meds

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

Sandpoint Police Department will join law enforcement across the country Saturday, Oct. 27, for the national Prescription Drug Take Back Day. From 10 a.m.-2 p.m., the general public can bring their expired prescription drugs to the Sandpoint Police and dispose of them safely and properly, with no questions asked.

“The reason that (it) started was to keep prescription medicines away from users and abusers,” said Shirl Danish, evidence technician for Sandpoint PD. “People had

these hydrocodone and oxycontins sitting in their medicine cabinets and their grandkids or neighbors would get them, use them or sell them. Rather than having the pills sit around, and to avoid having people put them into the water supply, this keeps the narcotics out of the hands of the wrong people.”

Danish said Sandpoint PD will ask no questions, and in fact wouldn’t even touch the bottles.

This day is for prescription drugs only – no over the counter medication, liquids or needles will be accepted.

For more information, call the Sandpoint PD (208) 265-1482.

NEWS

Creek Road BOCC writes to Wash. DOE on smelter, emphasize need for EIS Lightning closure rescinded

By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff

Bonner County Commissioners approved a letter to the State of Washington Department of Ecology Tuesday regarding the proposed PacWest silicon smelter in Newport.

Commissioner Glen Bailey, who drafted the letter, said it is in response to the DOE’s request for comments on the proposed project.

The letter, addressed to Washington DOE Director Grant Pfeifer, mentioned both pros and cons the commissioners recognize might come with the construction of the smelter.

“We welcome the prospect of additional jobs that could provide employment for many people, and would be a big plus for our local economy. We also recognize the potential damage to our environment and transportation infrastructure that a poorly planned operations model could result in, and would have a devastating impact on our health, quality of life and economy,” Bailey read from the draft. “We are greatly encouraged that the PacWest silicon proposed project will be subjected to a stringent Environmental Impact Statement process that will determine if the project meets federal and state of Washington standards designed to prevent the negative impacts our citizens are concerned about and should not be subjected to.”

McDonald said he was comfortable with the drafted letter as it stood. He said

Upcoming road closures listed

By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff Sunnyside Road will be closed starting Oct. 29 at 8 a.m. through Nov. 2 at 4 p.m. as Bonner County Road and Bridge crews replace the large culvert at Davis Slough (mm 1.7). The detour will be through the east end of the road, which the department improved over the summer in anticipation of the closure.

Another closure will take place on Homestead Road Thursday, Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. as the railroad tracks will be blocked for BNSF work.

Anyone with questions should call Bonner County Road and Bridge at (208) 255-5681 ext. 1.

he attended a recent scoping meeting regarding the smelter and that DOE officials seemed to have a “comprehensive grasp on what they need to look at.”

“This is obviously not their first rodeo,” McDonald said.

Commissioner Jeff Connolly said he liked that the letter was “short and sweet,” noting that he’s read other comments submitted to the DOE and he believes many questions are being covered through other comments. He referenced Rep. Heather Scott’s (R-Blanchard) letter as an example of someone who went into further detail about their concerns in her submitted comments.

“This gets us there. You can talk about modeling, you can talk about all kinds of

By Reader Staff

things, but I think that this just states that we have some concerns and we expect that they’ll keep us in the loop,” Connolly said.

Washington DOE is accepting comments on the project through this Friday, Oct. 26. Learn more or submit comments at ecology.wa.gov and search “PacWest silicon smelter project.”

GOP bus tour visits Bonner County

By Reader Staff The full slate of Republican national and state candidates arrived in North Idaho Friday to make the case for the GOP prior to the Nov. 6 election.

The visit was the latest stop in a statewide road trip dubbed the 2018 Republican Bus Tour. While several of the candidates in this year’s Republican roster have no opponent, they said it was important to still get in front of voters and explain their views on issues and policies. The latest iteration of an Idaho GOP tradition, the bus tour stopped first in Ponderay for lunch, then continued on to Priest River According to gubernatorial candidate Brad Little, who is facing Democratic candidate Paulette Jordan, the recent spurt of population growth in Idaho brings with it both challenges and opportunity. He believes that people are attracted to the state for its values, which include “the lightest possible hand of government.”

“The most important thing is for us, our kids and our grandkids to have a pathway where we can continue to thrive in Idaho,” said Little. “And that means three things to me: a great job, a great education system, affordable health care and great quality of life — well, that’s four.”

Congressional candidate Russ Fulcher, facing Democratic candidate Christine McNeil, said that the modern political era will be a pivotal moment in history. He said that the Democratic party has shifted its values toward a socialistic philosophy.

“We truly are at a crossroads in history, because the party that we represent, the nominees before you today, are the ones

who are representing market solutions and citizens as the pinnacle of governance and the foundation of principles that were utilized to found this country,” Fulcher said.

According to lieutenant governor candidate Janice McGeachin, facing Democratic candidate Kristin Collum, the central theme of this election is the fiscal approach to governance. She believes the candidates on the bus tour represent the conservative values that resonate with Idahoans.

“Yes, people are fleeing into our state,” she said. “They’re coming here because they’re leaving places that have wandered far from the foundation of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”

Attorney general candidate Lawrence Wasden, facing Democratic candidate Bruce Bistline, said his previous service as attorney general is defined by a commitment to rule of law. That’s why he sued the federal government over the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, policy, he added.

“We don’t live by the rule of feel good,” Wasden said. “We live by the rule of law.”

Superintendent of public education candidate Sherri Ybarra, facing Democratic candidate Cindy Wilson, pushed back against studies placing Idaho near the bottom of the country in education, saying it was done by a Washington, D.C., media outlet that never visited Idaho. She said that in recent years, Idaho’s public education system has instead saved money, boosted graduation rates and hit fifth in the country for college and career readiness.

The Idaho Panhandle National Forests has rescinded the road closure for the Lightning Creek Road #419 on the Sandpoint Ranger District. The contractor finished replacing the Wellington and Rattle Creek Bridges and road work ahead of schedule, and the road is open for travel.

The road had been closed for public safety since December 2015 following a flood event that resulted in significant damage to Lightning Creek Road, including the loss of four large concrete box culverts, three segments of road washouts, and damage to the bridges.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience during the time it took to get the repair work funded and completed,” said District Ranger Jessie Berner. “It is wonderful to have Lightning Creek Road opened for the public to once again access this popular area.”

The repair work was made possible through the Emergency Relief for Federally Owned Roads Program. For additional information on the Lightning Creek Road, please contact the Sandpoint Ranger Station at (208) 263-5111.

Driving service offered for election

By Reader Staff Local Sandpoint organizations are teaming up to drive voters to the polls for the mid-term elections.

With voter turnout expected to be significantly higher than average for the Nov. 6 election, organizers of the driving service said that they want to ensure everyone has a chance to make their voice heard at the ballot box.

“This is a non-partisan effort, from volunteers from various Sandpoint groups, to make sure everyone who wants to vote has the opportunity to do so,” said Rachel Castor, founder of Sandpoint Indivisible.

“We’ve set up a dedicated phone number, and we have a group of volunteers ready to drive people to vote.”

“We’re also offering rides now, for the next two weeks, not just on Election Day. We’re hoping to help people avoid the long lines,” said Theresa Renner, Bonner County co-leader for Reclaim Idaho. “If you need a ride to vote, just call the number, leave your name, address, phone number, and tell us when you’re available to go to vote. Then one of our volunteers will get back to you and arrange a time to pick you up, take you to vote, and take you home.”

To request a ride to a polling location, call 208-274-4211 and leave a message.

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OPINION

Don’t believe misleading facts about Proposition 2

By Sen. Shawn Keough Reader Contributor

ty indigent fund to help them pay catastrophic medical care bills.

We pay for it through the State’s Catastrophic Fund (AKA Cat Fund) which are our sales and income taxes. We pay for it by paying higher costs for our own

care at hospitals, doctors, dentists and other medical services. And, we who can afford health insurance pay for it through the higher insurance premiums we pay on our policies, because insurance companies are in it for the profit.

They will always pass the costs to their policy holders and to the doctors, hospitals and others they contract with.

So, although a large percentage will come from the federal taxes we send to D.C. the portion we will pay at the state will come out of the General Fund. Now, will it cut public schools? Beyond the irony of the Idaho Freedom Foundation actually being concerned about the funding for our public schools, I would say that — even though we can and should do more — the Idaho Legislature’s commitment to public school funding is clear: the K-12

budget always comes first and all other budgets come afterward.

And, the K-12 budget is and has been between 48 percent and 52 percent of the entire general fund budget for over 20 years!

A couple of other items: Our state economy as reflected in our state general fund income has been increasing since the recession and is currently on an 8-percent-plus growth line. Additionally, should Medicaid Expansion pass, there will be growth in the economy due to added jobs in the medical field, which in turn will pay more taxes than received today. And, perhaps most importantly, the folks in the “gap” are the working poor. They are working! They are working two and three jobs to keep themselves and their families going!

They are in the workforce today and want to stay in the workforce.

These, typically, are the folks

working in the service businesses the rest of us expect to be there.

The clerk at the retail store, the coffee shop, the hardware store — you get the picture.

And finally, if your roof has a leak, usually, you fix it before it gets worse and you must replace the entire roof — which is more expensive. With Medicaid Expansion people will get the preventative care they need which will diminish the burden on our system caused by them waiting until their health gets so bad they go to an emergency room. Medicaid Expansion is just plain common sense: fiscally and humanly.

tain Resort continue to invest in trails up the I’m in Boulder, Colo., this mountain. week at a conference to learn In 2016 the about the economic impact U.S. Bike trails and multimodal connecRoute 10 tivity can have on a communiwas estabty. I remember when I moved lished right to Sandpoint in 1999. North through Idaho Bikeways was comMayor Shelby Rognstad. the center pleting the community trail of town putting us officially on to Sagle. A few years later they the US bike map. For 20 years would complete the Sandpoint Sandpoint and the region has Dover Community trail. Around been establishing itself as trails that time the Syringa trail system was born (by the new Pend Oreille community, offering easy access, mobility and enhanced recreation Pedalers) and then followed the for all kinds of users.

Mickinnick Trail (by Friends of Most recently, Bonner County the Mickinnick Trail). Several partnered with Idaho Department years later the Pend d’Oreille of Lands to develop Hayes Gulch, Bay Trail began (by its Friends), a trail head with parking serving the Dover Bay Trail, then the the west side of Gold Hill. This was Creekside Trail. Now the Waterlisted as a first priority in the 2016 shed Crest Trail is the craze (anBonner County Trails Plan. The other POP achievement). Along Plan was developed by the Trail the way many other significant Mix Committee, a multijurisdicdevelopments occurred like new trails at Mineral Point and recently tional advisory group that focuses on trails and connectivity throughthe Pine Street Woods project. out the region. The group is a who’s Meanwhile, Selkirk Recreation who of any and every organization District and Schweitzer Moun-

that has an interest in trails in Bonner County. It created the plan to identify and prioritize opportunities for trails throughout the region.

More trails and better connectivity is great for our residents and visitors because trails improve equitable access, public health and quality of life. Headwaters Economics Institute, a Montana-based think tank, has developed and curated an increasing body of research that demonstrates trail systems also increase economic vitality and property values in communities that invest in them.

This is obvious for businesses that cater to trail user needs like Schweitzer restaurants, grocery stores, camping and gear shops, guide services and hotels. It also is shown to spill over to other sectors. Perhaps most significantly, to the extent Sandpoint can establish a reputation as a trail destination, revenues are not only measured in increased business revenue but in increased employment and employee earnings, which means increased local and state tax revenue. Trails are an integral part of a community’s quality of life. This, I argue, is our greatest asset and

most significant economic driver not because of tourist dollars, though they are significant, but because a high quality of life is what attracts quality employers and the workforce they need to sustain economic health and prosperity. Perhaps more than all that, trails are fun! They are community gathering spaces and provide a connection to the natural world.

We are fortunate to have so much wilderness around us and so many opportunities for trails.

We are also fortunate to have a lot of groups and individuals locally that recognize the value of trails and are dedicated to improving our local trail network. Communities across North America are likewise investing in trails and realizing the same benefits. A dozen of which are represented at this conference in Boulder. We are learning from each other how to best maximize our resources, tool up and deliver greater economic, social and health benefits to our community through investing in trails. We find much in common in our efforts and challenges and many differences as well. As the only representatives from Idaho, we (Sandpoint/

Bonner County) lack some of the funding tools that other states have leveraged to develop and maintain their trail infrastructure, such as citizen funding initiatives and local levies. While we have a strong philanthropic community, it pales compared to similar communities like Whitefish or Jackson.

For Sandpoint to be competitive in this growing market to develop trail connectivity and the many benefits they bestow, we must be collaborative, strategic and resourceful.

We created an impressive partnership with Trail Mix and a bold vision with Bonner County Trails Plan. The hard work of implementation is before us now. Trail work to this point has been funded through philanthropy and volunteerism. To develop and sustain the infrastructure needed for Sandpoint to fulfill the Trails Plan and to establish itself as a true trail destination, we need to develop a sustainable funding mechanism. Next month I will discuss how this could happen.

Please join me at the Mayor’s Roundtable this Friday morning, 8 a.m., at Cedar St. Bridge to discuss this issue and any others that are important to you.

The official voters’ guide from the State of Idaho for November’s ballot contains several arguments against Proposition 2 (Medicaid Expansion) that are false or misleading. Among them: that Medicaid Expansion will lead to cuts in funding for public schools.

Without a doubt, due to the nature of our Idaho Constitution’s requirement for a balanced budget, ALL items in our state budget “compete” “against” each other. Always have, always will.

That said, my argument in favor of Medicaid Expansion - beyond the humanity of it - is that we “taxpayers” are already paying for this medical care for the “gap population.” We pay for it through our property taxes when these folks must turn to the coun-

Sen. Shawn Keough.

Shawn Keough, R-Sandpoint, has represented District 1 as state senator since 1996. Keough announced last year she would retire after this, her current term in office.

Mayor’s Roundtable: Trails as an Economic Driver

By Mayor Shelby Rognstad Reader Contributor

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A Working Man for Working People...

Dear Editor, Stephen Howlett is running for a seat in Idaho’s House, representing Bonner and Boundary counties. He works in construction and understands the lives of working people.

The Republican, unbalanced tax bill that passed nationally, favors the rich and powerful, but gives a pittance to the rest of us. This pittance is being eaten up by the rising cost of living, leaving us a flat net income, or worse.

Stephen wants to make our state’s economy work for all of us. He supports increasing the minimum wage, expanding Medicaid, keeping rural Idaho industries profitable and fixing our highway infrastructure. He wants to reinvest in education to help Idaho’s students in today’s economy.

Vote for Stephen Howlett, a working man for working people.

Philip A. Deutchman Sandpoint

McDonald is Right Choice...

Dear Editor, While Commissioner McDonald spends his days working on behalf of Bonner County residents, his opponent spends his time misstating budget facts.

While Commissioner McDonald is busy answering constituents’ questions at all hours of the day, his opponent is busy ignoring questions on social media, offering empty platitudes on issues he has no control over, and dodging debates with his opponent.

While Commissioner McDonald spends his days planning how he’ll continue the effective work he’s done in his first term — including slashing expenses, protecting our property rights and rewarding the work of our invaluable county employees — his opponent is busy skipping town to avoid scrutiny.

The choice is clear: Mr. Lockwood --who either doesn’t understand the role of a county commissioner or the budgeting process, or is purposefully misleading voters and telling them what he thinks they want to hear — is a no-show.

Commissioner McDonald is available, transparent and highly experienced in efficiently managing large budgets and personnel, and has proven as much by keeping all of his campaign promises in his first term.

Please join me in voting for Dan McDonald on Nov. 6.

Christy Miller Sagle

Scott Not Swayed by Progressive Arguments...

Dear Editor, There are many reasons why Legislative District 1 has voted overwhelmingly for Heather Scott to be its representative in Boise. Foremost

among them is that she is vigilant about the Constitution, looking out for Idaho and its conservative values.

Her Democrat and even Republican opponents in years past tended to pay scant attention to those if they stood in the way of their particular agenda.

This time around her Democrat opponent has a particular problem with the Second Amendment. Her Facebook page used to be full of anti-gun postings until she announced her candidacy. Now she merely says she can accept guns for hunting and protection but wants to have “sensible legislation” and “better regulation over selling and tracking and using weapons”. North Idaho understands these code words for what are: ways to get to gun control.

Her opponent wants to see Medicaid expansion, on the ballot as Proposition 2, which is essentially a welfare program for able-bodied adults. North Idaho understands Medicaid expansion for what it is: an Obamacare relic that grows government and will put us on the road to universal healthcare. We do not need to follow in California footsteps.

Just on those two issues, there couldn’t be a more important reason to vote for Heather Scott. We know Heather to be an unequivocal supporter of the Second Amendment. She championed permitless carry and puts the spotlight on unconstitutional restrictions.

She is clear-eyed about the financial boondoggle that Medicaid expansion will be for our state and will not be swayed by progressives’ flawed arguments.

Susan Brown Priest River

Republican For Lockwood...

Dear Editor, Fellow Republicans, please carefully consider your vote for the Lockwood/ McDonald commissioner race. This is the time to evaluate the qualities and characteristics of those running for office even if it means voting outside of political affiliation.

Our choice will reflect who we are as a county. I’ve known Steve Lockwood for over 13 years. The community has seen him at work on the school board and Sandpoint City Council and many other volunteer positions. Steve is not a bully. He works with people towards resolution. Steve would not rudely interrupt people in public meetings.

Folks who know Steve see that he listens most thoughtfully. Steve does not denigrate individuals or entire groups of people. He demonstrates respect for all points of view. And Steve does not lie. He works to seek the facts.

Dan McDonald prides himself on cutting the county budget, but this is not the same as cutting costs. Dan raised his own salary by $10,000 which certainly is not cutting costs! Twice this year Dan has accepted campaign contributions from BNSF Railroad totaling $750 while county residents were expressing valid concerns about the proposed second rail bridge. We’ve all seen that Dan

has not supported concerns of county citizens over the potential health and environmental risks connected with the proposed smelter. Our choice for this position will reflect our values. Only Steve Lockwood can represent mine. It has been an honor to support his campaign.

Carol Jenkins Sandpoint

Lockwood Will Lead Fight Against Smelter...

Dear Editor, A recent letter proclaimed that Dan McDonald doesn’t quit. That would assume he got going at some point in his efforts to help the county.

Unfortunately, that is not the case on the issue of the proposed smelter.

Dan produced a video attempting to justify his lack of a position. A close look at his purported reasons reveals that he is willing to say almost anything rather than admit he is unwilling to help Bonner County.

Dan asserts that if a commissioner takes a stand on a public issue, by expressing an opinion, it could cost the county “millions.” As evidence of this he makes a vague reference to Boise County. Although a $4,000,000 verdict was entered against Boise County, it resulted from their decision in a land use case. The court found that the commissioners violated the Fair Housing Act by denying an application permit for a group home. Liability had nothing to do with a commissioner commenting on or participating in a land use proposal in another jurisdiction.

Would participation in the permitting process for the smelter expose the county to liability? Of course not. The purpose of environmental policy acts is to solicit public comment in an effort to obtain a thorough discussion of the significant aspects of the probable environmental consequences of the proposed activity.

The comment is sought from individuals and public agencies. The BCBOC is just such an agency.

Dan wants to get involved after release of a draft EIS. I find that odd since politicians usually want the public to participate early in the administrative process. The reason our land use codes require that the planning department solicit comments from local agencies is so that agency knowledge and recommendations can be considered and acted upon.

Bonner County citizens should expect, if not demand, that our commissioners participate in the planning process for the smelter. On this important issue we need to know where Dan McDonald stands. I want someone out front in a position of leadership, not lagging behind hoping to skate through the upcoming election without taking a stand.

The BCBOC, individually and collectively, are best positioned to request that the probable impacts to Bonner County, arising out of smelter operations, be addressed in the forthcoming EIS. Dan McDonald has failed Bonner County by abdicating his role.

I want someone to lead the fight against the smelter. I am voting for Steve Lockwood.

Paul Vogel Sandpoint

Just Say No To Prop 2...

Dear Editor, In this election you’ll be voting for the future financial stability of Idaho by voting no on Proposition 2. It’s that simple.

Prop 2 aims to expand the existing Medicaid program in Idaho by adding an estimated 62,000 and 78,000 new enrollees. They need not be disabled, low-income, pregnant or unemployed to get this totally free health care. No, the program is for adults up to age 65 who are able-bodied, have no children and make too much to qualify for the existing Medicaid program but supposedly make too little to afford health care any other way. And, by the way, they don’t need to work at all; the program has no work requirement.

This is a giant step toward Obamacare’s objective of universal health care. Most individuals in that income category actually are eligible for subsidies, but why should they bother if Medicaid expansion gives them totally free healthcare? We are facing an entitlement program that will be nearly impossible to reverse once in place because of the dependency it creates.

In states where it has been implemented, enrollment numbers and emergency room visits by Medicaid recipients have more than doubled, driving state budgets into chaos. Because the promised “free” federal dollars have already been cut back.

So a litmus test question for state and county candidates in November should be: Do you support Prop 2? If the answer is yes, they don’t deserve our vote because they either do not understand or do not care about Idaho’s financial future. It’s that simple.

Jack and Brenda Klein Hope

McDonald is Pro-Life...

Dear Editor, If you want a county commissioner who is for limited government, better roads, supports the rule of law, is 100-percent pro-life and pro-faith, and will help you put your family first, then I ask you to vote for Dan McDonald.

Dan is passionate about the people of Bonner County and is motivated by true fiscal conservative values. From cutting the county budget by millions, to hiring a procurement person to save money, Dan has shown himself to be a fiscally-responsible commissioner who is frugal with our tax dollars.

And last, but not least: Dan is a dynamo with a firm grasp of policy, and a presence that will challenge the status quo. He is a leader in every aspect of the word and will continue to bring fresh energy and perspective as our county commissioner.

So if you want a strong leader who is

passionate about working on behalf of all of our families, and is always looking out for you, look no further than Dan McDonald.

Please join with me in getting the word out: we need to re-elect Dan McDonald for county commissioner.

Teri Yarger Hope

Kindness in Idaho...

Dear Editor, In Bonner County, 120 volunteers collected valid signatures from 2,574 registered voters on a petition to get Medicaid expansion on the ballot. THANK YOU. Now it is time to take the next step, and vote YES! Look for Proposition 2 on the ballot.

Statewide, over 1,000 volunteers collected 54,000 signatures, 96 percent of the required 56,192 signatures to put this on the ballot. Most of these volunteers already have their own insurance, but put out this huge NONPARTISAN effort for the sake of 62,000 Idahoans who do not have health care.

Why did the Reclaim Idaho volunteers work so hard to get this onto the ballot? One volunteer said, “One of my best friends died because she was in the gap and had no way to get the medical treatments she needed.” Another said, “My friend lost his eyesight in one eye because he was in the gap and could not afford the specialist needed to save his vision.” Another said, “ My nephew works two jobs and still has no way to afford health insurance.”

Prop 2 brings $400 million of our tax dollars back to Idaho, creating 5,300 new jobs and the tax revenue from those jobs. It is estimated that there will be a $10 million savings per year that could be used for education.

It is endorsed by the Idaho Sheriff’s Association. Compassionate Idahoans now have the opportunity to help hard working Idahoans who fall in the healthcare gap to gain the healthcare they need by voting YES on PROP 2.

Shakura Young Sandpoint

Lockwood Campaign ...

Dear Editor, I agree with the many, many letters written in support of Steve Lockwood that highlight all the qualifications he has which will benefit the work of the Bonner County Commission and all of us in our county.

But something that has not been mentioned is the extremely high caliber of the Lockwood campaign. It has been honest, transparent, genuinely civil, informative, well organized and financially above reproach. It is the best political campaign I have seen since we moved here almost 20 years ago. This is the way our local government should work.

A vote for Steve Lockwood on Nov. 6 will help make that happen.

Sue Vogelsinger Sagle October 25, 2018 /

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Qualifications for Office...

Dear Editor, I asked both Dan McDonald and Steve Lockwood who are running for Bonner County Commissioner the following question: Can you supply me with a chronological list of some of the boards, both paid and unpaid positions, including any employment history on yourself that you feel lends you some of the unique expertise you will bring to the County Commissioners office?

Steve Lockwood: Bell Telephone Operations Manager- Oregon, recognized for exceptional service levels and efficiency; Bell technician first high-speed data system for North American Air Defense; Developer of Bell Central Office Management System, used nationwide; Selected to manage Bell’s largest conversion projects in Oregon; Manager- Bell’s Oregon technical hiring; Owner- Lockwood Properties; Designer/Builder experimental small houses, including Tillamook County demonstration house; Redeveloper market-rate close-in apartments; Developer- Park Cottages, Sandpoint’s multiple award-winning, market-rate infill modest income apartments 20052011; Elected Lake Pend Oreille school board 2004-2005; Interest-based labor bargaining team member; During this period funding and district management were stabilized; Elected Sandpoint City Council 2006-2008; Initiated new Comprehensive Plan; Firefighter negotiation team member and chair.

Volunteer government experience: Elected chair- Sandpoint Planning and Zoning Commission 2004-2005; Commissioner- Sandpoint Urban Renewal 2008-2018; Chair- Sandpoint Downtown Revitalization 2001-2002; Chair- Oregon Noise Advisory Committee; Chair- Columbia Region Land Use Task Force; Chair- Portland Region Air Quality Committee; Portland Energy Policy Task Force; Portland Bicycle/Pedestrian Committee; Portland Airport Noise Advisory Committee Other Volunteer Experience: Idaho Conservation League Board 2004- current; Idaho Smart Growth Board 2006-2015; Kinnikinnick Native Plant Society Board 2016-2018; Oregon Environmental Council Board; Scoutmaster, Cubmaster Dan McDonald: Bonner County Commissioner two years; The Garland Company, (Roofing Company) 22 years managed personnel; chaired the Management Advisory Council; Chaired the IT Advisory council and ran two roofing companies.

Nonprofit groups: Panida Theater Board - Past President; Big Boy Ballet Company; Bearly There in Sandpoint; Life Choices Pregnancy Center Board Member and Treasurer.

I look forward to electing the “Best Man for the Job.” My vote will have to go to Steve Lockwood. He brings the ex8 /

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perience to guide Bonner County toward a more purposeful future.

Marlene Petersen Sandpoint

McDonald Has No Credibility...

Dear Editor, Last Spring, I watched as Dan McDonald ignored, twisted and made up facts about wilderness to defeat the nonbinding vote on Scotchman’s. After 40 years as a forester and natural resource manager working with the science and politics of natural resource management, I noted how the misinformation was undeniable.

Fast forward to this fall and he is now claiming to have saved millions of Bonner County tax payer’s dollars in his reelection bid for commissioner.

However, reducing amounts of line items on a budget sheet doesn’t actually save money unless it’s accompanied with reduced spending. Should we take him at his word? If you think so, I have a bridge I’d like to sell you.

Ken Thacker Sagle

McDonald Lacks Honesty...

Dear Editor, Dan McDonald’s claim of people editing the YouTube audio of his racist comments about the Kalispel people is, in the current vernacular, “fake news.”

He doesn’t own up to his words and continues to obfuscate the issue because he is running for reelection. He lacks integrity and honesty in doing so.

I’m an independent professional audio producer with 30 years of editing experience for producing national feature stories and documentaries for National Public Radio, Living on Earth, Soundprint, National Native News and other national and regional public radio programs. I have spent my career and thousands of hours writing, editing and piecing a multitude of stories together so that each one is a seamless, listenable whole combining many voices, narration, ambiance and music. I’m doing similar work right now on contract with an audio archive preservation project for an Idaho nonprofit educational media group.

I can say unequivocally that the audio of the YouTube video has NOT been edited. And ironically it’s not because of the many layered voices, which make it complicated enough, but it’s the ambient sounds — the background noises that editors like me hear almost louder than the voices themselves that make this particular recording virtually impossible to edit. If it was edited, it would be very, very obvious, especially to sound professionals like myself. It is unedited. Listen with headphones at a slower speed, observing the sound waves using editing software on your computer screen, and you will agree with me.

Jane Fritz Sandpoint

Newborns Must Work in Order to Get Health Insurance...

Dear Editor, An Idaho relative of mine just received a letter telling him that he will fall into the insurance gap as of Jan. 1. The letter explained that because he increased the number of people in his household by having a third child, he is no longer making enough to qualify to use the health insurance exchange.

These parents will lose health insurance as of Jan. 1 because we do not have an expanded Medicaid program.

My relative is already working two good-paying jobs. His wife, a former Marine, is enrolled full time at North Idaho College in order to become a teacher.

These are the kind of people who are being denied healthcare. Do they sound lazy to you? I suppose they expect the new born baby to get a job so that the “household income” will increase such that they will qualify to use the state exchange. That is the broken healthcare system that is Idaho.

Proposition 2 will close this gap for 62,000 Idahoans at little or no cost to Idaho as the federal government will pay for 90 percent of the expansion. The expansion will create a need for 5,300 new jobs paying an average of $51,000 per year. Rural hospitals will no longer risk closure due to unpaid bills.. And our communities will be safer as people with mental illnesses and people with substance use disorders will receive the care they need. The Idaho Sheriff’s Association has endorsed Prop 2 for just this reason.

Vote YES on Prop 2 on Nov. 6 or during early voting at the elections office until November 3.

Lee Christensen Sandpoint

Idahoans Put Prop 2 On Ballot...

Dear Editor, Who collected the needed 56,192 signatures from 18 different districts in order to put this initiative on the ballot and why? Great question. Over 1,000 Reclaim Idaho volunteers collected 54,000 signatures, 96 percent of the required signatures needed to put this on the ballot. Reclaim Idaho, a nonpartisan group, was founded by Luke Mayville, Emily Strizich and Garrett Strizich. Luke and Garrett both graduated from Sandpoint High School. Reclaim wrote Prop. 2 and submitted it to the Secretary of State.

The campaign started in Sandpoint in the summer of 2017. In Bonner County, 120 volunteers collected 2,574 valid signatures. Our volunteers began working in mid-December, stood outside in front of various venues collecting signatures during the cold and did not stop collecting signatures until the deadline on April 30, 2018. County leaders in 23 districts statewide also made heroic efforts to accomplish what most people said was impossible. Reclaim spent approximately $45,000 to collect 96 percent of the needed signatures and had one paid staff member.

The remaining 2,619 signatures needed were collected by a group called the Fairness Project, a nonprofit group dedicated to improving lives. They paid $500,000 to a company called Fieldworks for their signature gatherers.

Reclaim Idaho did not receive any funding from the Fairness Project. On their own, The Fairness Project did not collect enough signatures to put this on the ballot nor did they qualify the number of districts needed. A quick check on the Idaho Secretary of State’s website easily verifies these figures.

Why did the Reclaim Idaho volunteers work so hard to get this onto the ballot? One volunteer said, “One of my best friends died because she was in the gap and had no way to get the medical treatments she needed.” Another said, “Because I’m tired of paying for the healthcare of 62,000 people twice. Once through my federal taxes and again through my Idaho property taxes to cover the county indigent care program.”

Expanding Medicaid in Idaho will bring $400 million of federal money into our state that will give healthcare to 62,000 Idahoans, add 5,300 new jobs and the tax revenues from those new jobs, and will save Idaho tax payers money. Vote YES on Prop 2.

Linda Larson Sandpoint

McDonald is True Fiscal Conservative...

Dear Editor, One issue voters will face next month is whether or not to allow what amounts to ObamaCare here in Idaho: Prop 2.

The candidates running for Bonner County Commissioner could not be further apart on this issue.

Mr. Lockwood supports Prop 2, aka Medicaid expansion. What does this mean to the county? In a nutshell: a fiscal nightmare. The Medicaid expansion would result in a $2-5 million increased bill to the county, which in turn would result in significant cuts to crucial services and personnel, and/or hefty tax increases to you and me, a fiscal catastrophe for Bonner County.

On the other hand, Dan McDonald is opposed to Medicaid expansion for the budget reasons noted. Further, McDonald supports alternatives to Medicaid expansion including: Bringing back major medical plans that were eliminated under ObamaCare Through the State Insurance Commissioner, requiring all insurance companies doing business in Idaho to accept the uninsured into their risk pools Investing in the Catastrophic Health Care fund for low-cost or cash-only Combined, the three would replace Medicaid expansion, a well-know market multiplier, like ObamaCare, that would increase the cost of insurance and healthcare for all Idahoans.

Mr. Lockwood touts himself as a “fiscal conservative.” He is anything but. The true fiscal conservative in this race is Dan McDonald. And he’s proven as much in his first term in office.

Please join me in voting to re-elect Dan McDonald on November 6.

Jodi Giddings Sagle

Re-Elect Dan McDonald...

Dear Editor, It is my pleasure to be among the many local residents who are supporting Dan McDonald for Bonner County Commissioner. Dan has done a great job in his first term and his knowledge and appreciation for the Constitution, with an emphasis on the First and Second Amendments, is key to my endorsement. Commissioner McDonald has made, and continues to make, many improvements to our county.

In these improvements, fiscal responsibility and the needs of the residents are two things I have seen Commissioner McDonald maintain as his priorities.

What makes me so encouraged in politics is seeing principled people with a steel spine who fight for truth, for transparency, and for correct solutions to be implemented on behalf of all county residents… and that person is Dan McDonald!

Please consider giving Dan your vote on Nov. 6.

JoEllen Baker Sandpoint

Lockwood for Commissioner...

Dear Editor, I first got to know Steve Lockwood, the guy now running for county commissioner, about 20 years ago. We started out skiing together. We branched off in different directions since neither of us could ski worth a darn. I have been constantly amazed at his energy and involvement in a wide number of community events and projects over those years.

He gets involved because he wants to use his talents and experience to leave behind a better community for all of us and the many citizens who will follow us.

He sums this up on his website when he says, “I am running for Bonner County Commissioner to promote our prosperity while protecting our rural quality of life”.

Isn’t that what we all want for Bonner County?

He made me understand that the last thing you need running local governments are ideologues. Politics at that level should be minimal. What we should be looking for are experienced, trained, professional managers who have the ability to communicate and work with all the citizens, businesses and organizations within our community.

These skills should be combined with a firm understanding of the law and all the institutions we need to deal with.

To me, that is really reinforced by the fact that he is endorsed by a couple of retired county commission chairmen.

Let’s put Steve in office and make him work even harder for us.

Gary Deaner Sandpoint

More letters on page 22.

COMMUNITY

Grocery shopping spree benefits local education

Serious about business but … got toys?

New version of classic poster rolls out at WHUN economic summit

By Reader Staff With the holidays fast approaching, what better way to prepare than to win a shopping spree?

Sandpoint’s P.E.O. chapter and Yoke’s Fresh Market in Ponderay are teaming up to raffle off a three-minute grocery shopping spree, with the proceeds benefiting scholarships for local students.

For $10, participants have a chance to win the grand prize — a shopping spree throughout the store — or one of three Yoke’s gift certificates in varying amounts: $200, $100 and $50. In total, four raffle participants will win a prize.

The group hosting the event, P.E.O., educates women through scholarships, grants, awards and loans and motivates them to achieve their highest aspirations. Local educational grants are given in the spring to graduating seniors in Clark Fork and Sandpoint.

Tickets may be purchased as gifts, for a favorite local charity or to keep for the purchaser’s personal use. There is no limit to the number of tickets any one individual, club, business or organization can purchase, but only 1,000 tickets will be sold. The winner may choose another person to run for him or her to fill the cart, and they may choose up to two of any like item while on the shopping spree.

Purchase tickets and read more about contest rules at the Yoke’s guest services counter in Ponder-

This could be you! Courtesy photo. ay.

Winners, including snowbirds, can shop at their convenience into the late spring of 2019.

The lucky winners will be notified by phone or text on Nov. 9.

By Reader Staff A classic Sandpoint business recruitment poster has come back to life – with an update and a side helping of fun, all to be revealed at the Nov. 1 “What’s Happening Up North” economic conference.

In the 1990s, the economic development group Sandpoint Unlimited produced the iconic poster, “We Mean Business … But Don’t Forget Your Toys!” to tout the North Idaho lifestyle as an incentive for businesses and entrepreneurs to bring their companies to Sandpoint. Showing a businessman in his office crowded with outdoor gear and with a big lake view, a few copies of the 25-yearold poster can still be found around town.

The Bonner County Economic Development Corporation has now re-created the poster, with the gear and the view updated for 2018 plus a fun twist. With local businessman Peter Gillis of Sand Creek Custom Wear as his model, local photog-

The original ‘90s “We Mean Business” poster, above, has gotten an update that will revealed – with free copies for attendees – at the “What’s Happening Up North” conference November 1. rapher Doug Marshall added scenes of a businessman enjoying four seasons of our outstanding outdoor pursuits – while getting his business done at the same time.

“That poster from the ‘90s was so popular, and captured the potential lifestyle here for entrepreneurs so well, that we decided to re-create it,” said Bonner County EDC Executive Director Paul Kusche. “And the vignettes of the businessman outdoors might add some humor but the fact is, our outdoor recreation lifestyle really is a great benefit for a lot of businesses to choose to be here.”

Bonner County EDC will be providing the poster to attendees at its fourth annual “What’s Happening Up North” Prospering Business Workshop coming Thursday, Nov. 1. The area’s biggest economic conference of the year, it features a keynote address

by Melinda Smyser, director of the Idaho Department of Labor, plus more than a dozen speakers from business and economic development agencies. Two local start-up companies, Rhino Hide and Matchwood, will tell about their experiences launching new businesses, and panel discussions will invite questions and feedback from attendees.

Attendance is free, but BCEDC asks that you sign up in advance at: www.whatshappeningupnorth.org.

The conference includes a catered lunch; there’s a suggested $10 donation requested to help offset the lunch cost and all who do chip in will get a free copy of the new poster.

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COMMUNITY

Sandpoint Literary Collective’s Pop-Up Beginning Drawing classes offered

By Reader Staff pencils and charcoal with three Open Mic planned for November

By Reader Staff Barbs • Unfortunately there are only Barbs this week. To start with, President Trump recently complimented Montana’s U.S. Rep. Greg Gianforte for body-slamming The Guardian reporter Ben Jacobs only days after it was reported that the Saudi Arabian government had a hand in the dismemberment and killing of a U.S. resident and Washington Post reporter, Jamal Khashoggi. Gianforte was charged with misdemeanor assault, and our president somehow thinks that is OK to applaud, especially after Khashoggi was so violently murdered for speaking truth to power.

This is absolutely disgusting.

•At the candidates’ forum Tuesday night, a question was asked about Bonner County Commissioners’ salaries. There were some responses that were lacking in truth.

Candidate Steven Bradshaw claimed that the average commissioner’s salary in Idaho is “over $100,000,” and that Bonner County’s commissioners were getting “$22,000 to $25,000 less than average.” This is completely false. There is only one county in Idaho where county commissioners earn over $100,000 per year and that’s Ada County (home of Boise).

The real Idaho average for county commissioner salaries is not “over $100,000,” it’s $39,000. That means the projected 2019 salary of $78,000 for Bonner County commissioners will be almost $40,000 over the state average. This is such a large, misleading discrepancy.

•Finally, Commissioner Dan McDonald was recorded in a meeting last year with smelter opponents, and when the Tribe was brought up (an obvious reference to the Kalispel Tribe), McDonald responded that “They’re the dirtiest group on the planet,” and claimed they will only support a business if they are given “kickbacks.”

While the comments are ugly, what bothers me more is McDonald’s response. He went full stop and claimed the tape was edited. I hate when people treat me like I’m stupid. I’ve worked in audio editing and, after listening for more than an hour and analyzing the audio, detect no edits whatsoever.

My advice to Dan? Own up to your words, apologize and move on. Everyone makes mistakes. It’s how you handle the mistake and take responsibility for your own actions that defines a person’s character. I’ve had enough intolerance in politics lately.

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Sandpoint Literary Collective is hosting its second PopUp Open Mic Nov. 8 at 6 p.m. at the Pend d’Oreille Winery, 301 Cedar Street in Sandpoint.

This is an opportunity to showcase local and guest literary talent. Their inaugural event in August had a huge number of participants, with some stellar readings, and the Collective is looking forward to hearing writers’ new original work in November, they said.

Writers of all stripes are invited to read their original work for up to five minutes.

Attendees are encouraged to enhance their experience — reading and/or listening — with award-winning Pend d’Oreille wines and delectable appetizers. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.

The Sandpoint Literary Collective is a community of

writers and writing professionals — authors of prose and poetry, publishers, editors, indexers, book designers, book marketing professionals — dedicated to literary writing through practice, education, and promotion. It is a nonprofit entity organized under the Academy of Northwest Writers and Publishers. They may be contacted via Lost Horse Press at losthorsepress@mindspring. com or (208) 255-4410.

For additional information about the Pop-Up Open Mic, please call (208) 255-4410 or email losthorsepress@mindspring.com.

MONET’S GARDEN READER

Does your child want to learn to draw? Basic drawing elements of line, shape, contour, textures, values and perspective will be explored in a Beginning Drawing class for ages 10 and older.

The classes will be held Tuesdays Nov.13, 20, 27 and Dec. 4 from 5:30-7 p.m. at Sandpoint Community Hall, 204 S. First Ave. Participants are asked to bring three or more drawing pencils - a mix of graphite

different grades, a gum eraser and an 8-inch by 10-inch or larger sketch pad. The class fee is $43 ($5 in-city discount).

Register online by Friday November 9. A minimum of four students is required to run the class.

For all Parks and Recreation activities and to view monthly registration details and pre-register, go online at www.sandpointidaho.gov/parksrecreation or visit Sandpoint Parks and Recreation at 1123 Lake St. in Sandpoint or call (208) 263-3613.

Children’s intro classes offered for Taekwondo, Karate and self defense

By Reader Staff Sandpoint Taekwondo will be offering children age 5 - 13 an introductory Taekwondo, Karate, and self defense class. Each session will teach basic highself-defense skills and high light the importance of self-discipline and character building in a child friendly setting.

The class begins Thursday, Nov. 6. Pre-register by Nov. 1.

The session fee is $52 ($2 city discount), and includes a uniform and two weeks of lessons

on Tuesday and Thursday from 3:15 - 4 p.m. Each session will meet at Sandpoint Taekwondo, 218 Main Street in downtown Sandpoint.

For all Parks and Recreation activities and to view monthly registration details and pre-register, go online at www.sandpointidaho.gov/parksrecreation or visit Sandpoint Parks and Recreation at 1123 Lake St. in Sandpoint or call (208) 263-3613.

Genealogy search class offered

By Reader Staff

Lena Krause and Lisa Cirac brought the Reader to Monet’s Garden on a recent trip to Giverny, France. Lisa said, “We’d hoped to visit Le Monde for you newspaper men, but Paris had other plans for us. We brought you to Monet’s peaceful waterlillies instead.” Thanks ladies!

Do you want to find out more about your ancestry?

A free class full of tips and instructions is being offered as a joint partnership between Sandpoint Parks and Recreation and the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints.

The class will take place Wed. Nov. 14 from 1-2 p.m. at the Family History Center, 602 Schweitzer Road (the rear of the LDS Church).

Participants will learn how to add memories and pictures, as well as to document stories about ancestors they’ll discover on FamilySearch.org.

The classes and assistance are free, and participants will have access to world records.

The Family History Center is open every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. and Wednesdays from 5:30-8:30 p.m. For more information, call Laurie Bachowksy (208) 5970641.

HUMOR

Identity I remember when I brought my first baby home – a little girl. I was 22 and didn’t have a clue what I was doing.

I decided to dress her up in some of the thousands of fancy outfits she had received from family and relatives.

The first outfit I put her in was a frilly little dress, with matching ruffle socks and an equally frilly diaper cover.

It must have taken 45 minutes to get her in the outfit, as I carefully pulled her little appendages through the maze of fabric and ruffles.

When it was all done, she stared at me with a distraught, mildly terrified look – the same look your dog gives you when you put an outfit on it for your own amusement. My child looked like a tortured pet. I wasn’t even sure that she liked the name I gave her, it didn’t seem to fit her, just like the clothes she had on. I had no one of knowing, I didn’t know her yet, and I was in charge of her identity. It didn’t seem fair.

Babies don’t really have an identity associated with their gender, they really just like to be fed on demand and stay warm and comfortable. We add the ruffles or the baseball cap, for no other reason other than that’s what society tells us is normal. Kids grow up and they eventually choose their own clothes and form their own identity. Sometimes it looks nothing like the one we started crafting for them the day we took them home from the hospital.

As a parent, you can be disappointed by this, or you can accept the fact that

your child isn’t a pet or a doll, they are an individual with their own unique taste. Nothing should make a parent more proud then having a child who is unapologetically striving to figure out who they are and unafraid to express themselves.

I learned early to give up the fight with my children when it came to clothing. You want to dress like a fairy every day, fine. You want to change your name to “Purple” and wear a cape around the house, cool. It’s your life, child. I am here to feed you, keep you safe and support you with as little emotional damage as a mother can inflict.

That’s my job. My job isn’t to fit you into a box or tell you to act like a lady.

My job isn’t to tell you who to fall in love with. My job isn’t to constantly lecture you about how your feelings and interests are wrong because they don’t align with the majority. My job is to love you, unconditionally. That’s it.

While I’m not a perfect parent, I try.

I keep trying, I’m sure I will be figuring out this parenting thing the rest of my life. I do not understand parents fighting with a child over a child’s innate need to express themselves as an individual. I do not understand why society as a whole is so uptight about gender identity. Personally I don’t give a shit about what kind of genitalia someone has — I care more about whether or not they are a good person, or capable of the job they are doing. I’m pretty sure it doesn’t matter if the person in the bathroom stall next to me has a penis or vagina. I’m too busy minding my own business to figure it out. I know I wasn’t

put on this earth to manage the identities of other people. I understand that some people dance to the beat of their own instrument, there are drummers and there are guitar players, and they can work together.

I’m never going to back an administration that believes it is the government’s job to assign gender identity to people. I’m never going to vote for a candidate who tells me what I can do with my body, or how I should behave, or that what I believe is wrong. People do not stop believing or feeling what they feel because someone tells them not to, compliance and acceptance are two different things. Oppression doesn’t work. I am not going to do something I don’t feel comfortable with because someone else told me to.

We may be able to dress babies and dogs however we want to, but we don’t get to dress other people’s babies or dogs. I can choose whether or not to have a gun in my house, but I can’t choose for you. What I really can’t fathom is people who do not want the government to put any more laws in place regarding gun ownership, but have no issue with the government telling someone that they can not choose their own identity.

Like a pitbull in a dress, it just doesn’t make sense.

Winter is coming. I hope all the other snowflakes out there show up to vote on election day. I’m not going to apologize for who I am, and I don’t expect any one else to either.

Come Trick or Treat and take a picture with the Sanderson Sisters. Treats for adults!

Goodie bags for the children!

Scarlette Quille October 25, 2018 /

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Mad about Science:

By Brenden Bobby Reader Columnist That time of year has come and gone again. Countless pickup trucks sitting vacant in parking lots around private and public parking lots alike, the echo of gunshots in the far distance, camo everywhere. Elk season!

I know what you’re thinking: That long-haired hippie dude must be against killing elk, he’s always about save the planet and whatever.

Clearly, you haven’t met me.

I’m basically the opposite of a vegetarian. I once wrapped a sausage in a hamburger patty and let it rest in a bacon cradle.

I have exactly zero qualms with putting a delicious carcass in my brand-new, 14-cubic-foot freezer.

For those that haven’t tried elk meat before, it differs from venison pretty drastically. It’s very lean and has a distinct taste. Similar to beef, but not as gamey as deer. It makes some pretty bomb-A jerky, smokies, steaks, you name it. I usually have to conceal most of the gamey-ness of venison with enough spice to choke a camel, but elk is just about perfect as it is.

That being said, despite blisters on my feet and narrowly dodging a cold, I didn’t have the joy of dragging a carcass down the mountain this year.

Deer be warned this season: I have an empty freezer and an equally empty belly! I saw your convenient little path! I know where you are going!

Elk share a family with deer, Cervidae, but are considerably larger. The average whitetail 12 /

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Brought to you by:

elk

buck sits around 150 pounds. A large elk can push 700. Anyone who has ever hunted one or had the misfortune of meeting one on the highway knows these guys are huuuuuge. They’re also super kinky when it comes to making more freezer-fillers.

Bulls will dig out things called wallows, where they will pee and proceed to roll in it. For some reason, this gets cows all hot and bothered and attracts them in great number from vast distances to create something called a harem, which is exactly what it sounds like. This stink is a double-edged sword, however, as it also draws other bulls.

Have you ever been in a bar and seen one guy being the center of attention, then another guy comes up and talks some smack, and suddenly they’re fighting to see who the dominant male is? Yeah, elk do that, too, but they have antlers that can span up to almost four feet and will wrestle with all 700plus pounds of flesh and bone behind them. If dudebros had antlers to rassle with, football would be a completely different game. It’s not uncommon for these sparring matches to end in lethal injuries for all parties involved. For the elk, not the dudebros.

Bulls make a distinct call during mating season called bugling. It’s immediately distinguishable as having come from an elk, or a group of tweens at a Bieber concert. Seriously, it’s a pretty entertaining sound, especially when you see it coming from one of these towering creatures. It’s a very loud, sharply pitched screech that can be heard from miles. Cows love it, and are drawn to the loudest

buglers from miles away. Hey, the falsetto works for Adam Levine, why wouldn’t it work for superdeer?

Cows only go into heat for a day or two once a year, but mating during this period is fierce. They may mate over a dozen times during this time. When pregnant, the calf gestates for over 240 days, about 40 days shorter than a human. Most of the year, males and females don’t intermingle. Bulls will form bachelor groups, which is really funny to imagine. Just imagine Beavis and Butthead but with antlers.

The cows will form large herds to care for young. Strength in numbers means females are less susceptible to predators like bears, wolves, mountain lions or wild boars in some parts of the world than the males are. Gray wolves have been observed several times isolating a male with advanced hunting and herding tactics to score an easy kill. In “World of Warcraft” we call that tactic “peeling,” and it means isolating someone from the rest of their team by slowing them down or trying to shock them into running, then turning them into a pile of red jelly once they’re alone.

It’s just not a Mad About Science article unless we bring some prehistoric silliness into the fold. Megaloceros giganteus, known as the Irish Elk, was a prehistoric deer that stood nearly 7 feet at the shoulder and had a 12-foot antler span.

Its remains have been found in Irish bogs and the Siberian tundra. They’ve found some fossils that were as fresh as 7,700 years old, which means

our ancestors may have hunted these giant things for several thousand years.

What is it about Ireland that makes such giant things? Irish elk (awesome), Irish Wolfhounds (awesome), huge flavor stouts (awesome)? Okay, I’m stretching it with that last one.

I just can’t help it, man! I love that part o’ me ancestry.

I hope you managed to have better luck this elk season than

“Ri-co-laaa!”

I did. At the very least, I hope you enjoyed the serenity of nature and some of the incredible views up the mountain like I did.

I’d share one of the absolutely greatest and most primal views in all of Bonner County with you, but that’s kinda’ my spot, so...

See you in deer season!

Random Corner ing?

Don’t know much about hunt

We can help!

• Grizzly bears were so feared and respected by Native Americans that hunting them required a company of four to 10 warriors and was done with the same preparation and ceremonial as intertribal warfare.

• In 2014, Namibia raised over $350K by auctioning off the right to hunt one endangered black rhino. The rhino was past breeding age and detrimental to the rest of the herd. The money was used to protect endangered animals.

• In 1859, English settler Thomas Austin released only 24 rabbits onto his property in Australia, stating “The introduction of a few rabbits could do little harm and might provide a touch of home, in addition to a spot of hunting.” By the 1920s the population reached 10 billion.

• If you don’t pay child support in Texas you won’t be able to renew your hunting license.

• The near-extinction bison hunting in the 1800s was not to gain food, but to restrict the American Indians’ dominant food supply; herds were shot from trains and left to rot where they died.

• The reason cats and snakes have vertical pupils is because it increases their depth perception while hunting at night while prey animals such as sheep have horizontal pupils so that they may have a panoramic view of their surroundings to watch for predators.

• The term “sniper” originally referred to hunters skilled enough to shoot a Snipe, a species of bird.

• The extinct passenger pigeon bird went from being the most abundant bird in North America and possibly the world during the 19th century, to extinct in the 20th century due to massive hunting and habitat destruction.

Martha, the world’s last passenger pigeon, died alone in 1914 at the Cincinnati Zoo in Ohio.

COMMUNITY

Dust Off Sandpoint!

By Reader Staff The trucks and dust are gone, and construction season is complete. Let’s celebrate!

The Sandpoint Shopping District and downtown businesses welcome our community downtown for some FUN and support! Dust off Downtown will be Thursday evening, Oct. 25. All area residents are encouraged to come out for a shopping happy hour 4-7 p.m. with specials and exciting give aways in the downtown area merchants. There will live music in several locations downtown from 5-8 p.m., sponsored by Ting.

Mostly Harmless on the outside deck of Jalapenos on Second Avenue, Live music

by RFB (Right Front Burner) at the Panida Little Theatre alcove on First Avenue, plus a family area and DJ by Sandcreek Sound in the Petal Talk parking lot on Cedar Street. Bring the family and play a life-size game of Connect 4, Jenga, Cornhole or Ladder Ball.

Additional activities include S’mores at Understory Coffee, musicians and an open house at the Music Conservatory, drawings and doggy prizes at I Saw Something Shiny (sponsored by Panhandle Animal Shelter), outdoor treats at A&P’s, and in-store activities at La Chic Boutique (benefiting NAMI), The Alpine Shop and more. Azalea will have wine from Pend d’Oreille Winery, food from Amazing Grazing and 25 percent off any one item.

Our downtown businesses really took a hit this summer and fall with the unavoidable construction. Let’s show them some support and enjoy an evening out

with the family. Supporting local keeps our entire community thriving. A special thanks to the Daily Bee, Keokee Publishing, Blue Sky Broadcasting and Ting for sponsoring this event.

Dust off Downtown will be Thursday, Oct. 25, from 4-8 p.m. For more information visit the Sandpoint Shopping District on Facebook.

208.263.1444

More than just phillys!

•Gluten-free options •Hoagies •Burgers •Hot Dogs •50 Flavors of milkshakes

The Pioneer Square at 819 Hwy 2, Ste:102-B

102 Church Street •Sandpoint, ID

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event

Dollar Beers!

Free Halloween Party and Open House 8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub 4-7pm @ Kaniksu Health Services Good until the keg’s dry All kids and parents are welcome! Light snacks and refreshments will be served, plus enjoy face painting, a scavenger Axe Throwing league hunt, play games and win prizes, meet 6-10pm @ Tervan Tavern the staff, and see what’s new

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Dust Off Downtown 4-7pm @ Downtown Sand Sandpoint businesses are with a Dust Off Downtow businesses and enjoy som kids’ activities including hour from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m

Live Music w/ The Groove Black 6:30-9:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall

Live Music w/ Ron Kieper 5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Ron Kieper jazz and wine - a great pairing Anniversary party at the 219 Live Music w/ Mike and Shanna Thompson 12pm-12am @ 219 Lounge The 219 celebrates its 84th anniversary, 5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority with food, prizes, drink and beer specials. Sandpoint duo with a lot of fun songs Live Music w/ Chris Lynch & Brian Jacobs The Dimestore Prophets play at 9 p.m.

5:30-7:30pm @ Cedar Street Bridge Wine Bar

Live Music w/ Chris Lynch and Meg Turner 5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority Sit back and enjoy the show, folks Live Music w/ Brian Jacobs 5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Soulful melodies and fun covers Live Music w/ Bob Beadling 5:30-7:30pm @ Cedar Street Bridge Wine Bar Bob Beadling on piano Live Music w/ Molly Starlite and the Sputniks 9pm-12am @ 219 Lounge Described as rockabilly Fleetwood Mac, the Sputniks sound brings a catchy style

‘80s DJ Dance Party 6:30-9:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall DJ KD (aka Kevin Dorin) is helping wish a couple of special friends a happy 40th birthday with a fun ‘80s DJ Dance Party. Food by Old Tin Can also.

Halloween Dance Party 8pm-? @ Eichardt’s Pub Eichardt’s Pub is hosting a Once Upon a Disenchanted Forest Halloween Party with food and drink specials from 8-9 p.m. and DJ Jedi spinning tunes starting at 9 p.m.

Sandpoint Chess Club 9am @ Evans Brothers Coffee Meets every Sunday at 9am Monday Night Blues Jam w/ Truck Mills 7:30pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Night-Out Karaoke 9pm @ 219 Lounge Join DJ Pat for a night of singing, or just come to drink and listen

Annua 10am-1 Coffee bring y Boo Ba 7-10pm Tango l 8-10 wi zaes an First A 5:30-10 A Mich p.m., th with co prizes.

Piano Sunday 2-4pm @ Pend Sip some wine

Lifetree Cafe • 2pm @ Jalepeño’s Mex An hour of conversation and stories. This

Trivia Night 7-9pm @ MickDuff’s Bring your brain and show it off (please, not literally)

Trunk or Treat in Hope 2-4pm @ Davis Grocery & Mercant This Halloween-themed event is gr family fun with a pumpkin carvin drawing contest, and games. Free Annual Monster Mash Under-21 Party Halloween Party at the 219 8pm @ The Hive 8-11pm @ 219 Lounge Todd Arrive in costume and dance shoes to get Prizes for best costume, drink specials, and 10:3 down! This is a no-alcohol event. Tickets live music by acclaimed guitarist Truck Dres are $10 in advance, and $12 at the door Mills (blues with a jazz-gospel flair to rock) sock Dollar Beers!

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

Sandpoint Film Festival (Nov. 1-3) 12, 3, 6pm @ Panida Theater Sandpoint’s own film festival, with film blocks at noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. SandpointFilmFestival.com for a list of films

Prospering Business 7am-3pm @ Sandpoi Register at WhatsH to attend. This year’s Labor: Issues & Solu

ful

October 25 - November 1, 2018

ntown town Sandpoint nesses are celebrating the end of construction Downtown event. Come out and support local enjoy some live music, libations, and specials. ncluding games and s’mores, a shopping happy m. to 7 p.m., and live music from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

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

350Sandpoint Membership Meeting 5-7pm @ Bonner Co. Library Milton Ollerton and Jason from Bonner Co. Planning will discuss wildfire and flooding in Bonner County. Laura Ackerman, 350Spokane and The Lands Council will speak on a state wide Oil Spill contingency

Live Music w/ Tommy D picks the Beatles 6-8pm @ Farmhouse Kitchen airing “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” ompson 12pm @ Panida Theater A free showing hosted by Kinderhaven

Uryadis Village Celebration & Fundraiser 6pm @ Evans Brothers Coffee Learn about amazing things Uryadis Children’s Village has done. Evans Bros. will donate 15% of sales to Uryadis

KNPS: Jack Nisbet Presentation on The Leibergs 9:45am @ Sandpoint Community Hall John Leiberg was a late-coming pioneer to North Idaho with a keen interest in native plants Annual Healing Garden Clean Up Day Dio de Los Muerte Party 10am-12pm @ The Healing Garden by BGH 4pm-late @ The Granary (Evans Bros. and Matchwood) Coffee and snacks will be provided. Please Evans Brothers Coffee is teaming up with Matchwood bring your own rake Brewing Co. to offer the inaugural Day of the Dead Party.

Boo Bash Costume Ball There will be a community altar for pictures, candles and 7-10pm @ Sandpoint Community Hall offerings, a full menu at Matchwood, kids’ crafts and movTango lesson from 7-8, general dancing from ies, Latin music from Los Flacos Band, dance performanc8-10 with black lights, refreshments, door pri- es and a DJ dance party. $15/ticket pre-sale, includes glass zaes and costume contest. $9/adults, $5/ teens CANSS Halloween-themed Spaghetti Dinner and Auction First Anniversary and Hallo-wine Party!

5pm @ Hospitality House, 216 S Washington Ave, Newport 5:30-10pm @ The Back Door All proceeds go to the legal fund for Citizens Against the A Michael David wine tasting from 5:30-7:30 Newport Silicon Smelter. Donations welcome and cosp.m., then live music from 8:30 until 10 p.m. tumes are encouraged.

Trivia night with costume contest and a chance to win 6:45-8pm @ Tervan Tavern prizes. Free admission.

Karaoke night 8pm @ Tervan Tavern Sing your favorites!

GAME ROOM UPSTAIRS

See page 26 for a full listing of Halloween events

n Jacobs Wine Bar

o Sunday w/ Annie Welle m @ Pend d’Oreille Winery ome wine and listen to live piano on the grand

OPEN 11:30 am

Axe Throwing league 6-10pm @ Tervan Tavern

‘80s DJ Dance Party

6:30-9:30pm w/ DJ KD (aka Kevin Dorin)

DEVON WADE 6:30-9:30pm SADIE SICILIA AND THE RECKONING

6:30-9:30pm

The Psounbality with Per FRESH FOOD LIVE MUSIC THE BEST NW BREWS

212 Cedar Street Downtown Sandpoint

208.263.4005 A SandPint Tradition Since 1994

Sandpoint Direct Primary Care and Frazier King, M.D. Welcome:

eño’s Mexican Restaurant ories. This week’s topic: “Encountering God”

Annual Trick-or-Treat at City Hall Axe Throwing league 6-10pm @ Tervan Tavern & Mercantile 3:30-4:30pm @ Sandpoint City Hall vent is great City of Sandpoint employees invite Magic Wednesday 6-8pm @ Jalapeño’s kin carving, school-aged children to trick or treat Bonner County History Museum Trick or Treat s. Free 4-7pm @ Bonner County History Museum Enjoy safe, fun, and free trick-or-treating at the Museum Toddler Dance Party - Parade of Costumes Family Costume Night nd 10:30am @ Sandpoint Library 4-7pm @ Creations uck Dress up in your holiday costume and dance your Bring the kiddos for a fun ck) socks off! Then join in the annual toddler Parade family costume night

g Business Workshop @ Sandpoint Technology Center WhatsHappeningUpNorth.org his year’s theme is Housing and es & Solutions

Axe Throwing league 6-10pm @ Tervan Tavern

Nov. 2 Halloween Bash @ The Hive Nov. 3 Sadie Sicilia and the Reckoning @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Nov. 3 Harold’s IGA album release show @ 219 Lounge

Now accepting new pediatric and adult patients Enjoy extended, relaxed visits, same day scheduling, wholesale labs and medications, and full access to your physician via technology, 24/7 Call t od a y to m a ke an a ppoi ntme nt

1323 US-2 Suite 300 Sandpoint • 208-263-3091 sandpointdpc.com

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CANDIDATE QUESTIONNAIRE 2018 General Election

We believe strongly in informing the community about candidates running for public office. As part of our commitment to this effort, we present this questionnaire for candidates in legislative races. Next week, we’ll feature a questionnaire from all the county candidates. SandpointOnline.com is also a great resource for election information, as well as the Bonner County Elections Page. Finally, don’t forget to vote Tuesday, Nov. 6. Polls are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Questions for Legislative candidates: 1. Tell us why you entered politics.

2. Do you support or oppose Medicaid expansion in Idaho? What are your reasons for your position?

3. In the past several years, we’ve seen the Idaho Legislature working to boost its spending on education. Moving forward, what changes would you support for the education system, if any at all.

4. One source of disagreement that recently emerged among Republicans is the approach to take with undocumented laborers in the state’s agricultural industry. What is your opinion on this issue?

5. When it comes to budgeting for the state, what do you believe are the priorities for the Legislature to focus on?

6. Washington is beginning the scoping process for its EIS on the proposed Newport smelter. What do you think about the smelter, and what influence do you think you could have on the approval process if elected?

7. We’re beginning to learn more about BNSF’s proposed expansion to its rail system in Sandpoint. What is your opinion of this project?

state senate district 1 Jim Woodward Republican Age: 47 Years of residence in North Idaho: 37 - I lived overseas as an exchange student, and I lived throughout the U.S. during my time in the Navy.

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Jim Woodward. known that North Idaho is the best place to live and work.

Marital status/family: Happily married to Brenda for 24 years. Two children: Avery and Anna. I have a fairly large extended family in the area as my mom’s three sisters – Barb Fournier, Liz Stephenson and Bev Kee – all live in Sandpoint and have children living throughout North Idaho.

Email: jim@jimwoodwardforsenate.org.

Facebook: Jim Woodward Phone: (208) 946-7963 QUALIFICATIONS: Education: Bonners Ferry High School University of Idaho, BS Mechanical Engineering; U.S. Navy Nuclear Power Training.

Recent or pertinent employment history: Owner, APEX Construction Services, 2008-present; C.E. Kramer Crane and Contracting, 2000-2008; U.S. Navy submarine officer, 19912012 (seven years of active service and fourteen years of reserve service).

Public offices held: Director, Northern Lights Electric Cooperative, 2014-present.

Nonprofit groups, service or professional organizations to which you belong: My volunteer work has typically involved taking on projects which utilize our construction company skills. Some of the projects we’ve completed include demolition of the Memorial Field grandstands

for the city of Sandpoint, installing new piling at Dog Beach adjacent the Long Bridge in conjunction with the Long Bridge Swim organization and playground drainage improvements at Southside School. I also volunteer in the schools both as a guest speaker and sometimes as a worker bee.

Other experiences or skills that qualify you for office: I’ve spent four years studying and observing the Idaho legislature to prepare myself. In addition, I have a combination of experience from working in the federal government (the U.S. Navy), contracting with local, state, and federal government as a public works contractor, and working for individual homeowners throughout our two counties in District 1 as an excavation contractor.

Having lived almost three-quarters of my life in Bonner or Boundary County, I have great respect for our lifestyle here and have perspective on the changes we make as we grow. As a state senator, I can use those experiences to effectively interface with government agencies, listen to and work for people in the district, and make decisions which best represent the interests of us as Idahoans.

ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS: 1. Throughout the campaign process, I’ve repeated the statement that I am not too interested in politics, but I would like to serve in public decision making. We have decisions to make at the local, state, and federal level for the good of the whole. I’d like to take my turn participating in the process as a citizen legislator because I appreciate what we have in Idaho and the United States. Our high quality of life is a result of our system of representative government which requires participation. Participation may take the form of voting, volunteering, actively engaging in public discussions, or serving in an elected position. Just to be clear though, know that when the legislature is not in session, you’ll still typically find me running around North Idaho in my Carhartt pants and a t-shirt, working in the dirt.

2. I wholeheartedly support figur-

ing out an answer to the current situation where a group of people in the middle are being left out in the cold, although I think we might do better in the long wrong as a society with an answer other than straight expansion of Medicaid.

Decision-making is performed on the facts of the matter at the time of the decision. The facts are that the Affordable Care Act of 2010 is the law and that Medicaid would have been expanded as part of the implementation of the law if not for a Supreme Court decision in 2012 that allowed states not to expand Medicaid coverage. As a result, we now have a situation where a significant number of Idahoans make enough money that they are not eligible for Medicaid coverage, yet they don’t make enough to receive ACA tax credits to help purchase healthcare insurance on the exchange. It is essentially an administrative glitch that needs to be taken care of, one way or another. Medicaid expansion is not my preference. I would like to see the U.S. Congress go back and fix the problem, perhaps by lowering the lower income limit on the ACA credits. The chances of that are slim, so I understand that we must take care of the problem here in Idaho.

I will honor the votes cast in the citizen ballot initiative process, but I also want to see an accountable system that does not become a way of life.

Finally, I think the focus has been in the wrong spot for decades.

We’re always talking about providing affordable health insurance, which is going after a symptom of the problem.

The underlying problem is the cost of healthcare. If healthcare were more affordable, having insurance to cover the costs of routine healthcare wouldn’t be the issue it is. We don’t use auto insurance to buy tires or put fuel in our cars. We use it for the significant events.

3. Education is a building block of our society. I support our public education system as a means of providing people the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to live a rewarding and independent life. The Idaho

Teacher Career Ladder has been a successful program in that it provided a five year plan. Because there was a plan in place, I think the question for the legislature every year has been simpler. ‘Do we or do we not continue with the plan?’ versus ‘What is the plan this year?’ As we enter the fifth year of the career ladder program, we should establish another strategic plan to continue moving forward. I am a firm believer in the old school method of success… consistent effort at a sustainable level. I’m not sure we need to change our educational methods as much as we do. We do need to hire and retain the best teachers, provide stable funding for staff and facilities and develop a culture of learning.

4. This is an issue that primarily affects southern Idaho, so I have not yet had a lot of conversations on the topic. What I do know, is that immigration is controlled at the federal level. If we have undocumented laborers in the work force, then we have an existing law that isn’t being enforced. At the same time, we have to acknowledge that Idaho agriculture depends on immigrant labor to accomplish the work of the day. We, as a country, can come up with an answer to ensure immigrant labor arrives in a legal status while not upending the apple cart.

5. Whatever level of government we’re talking about, I like to see the focus on topics that are appropriate to that level of government, whether it be local, state or federal. For state government in Idaho, education and transportation are two primary roles. If we focus on the basics, the peripheral parts of life fall into place as a result of good practices. Idaho operates in a fiscally responsible manner with our constitutionally mandated balanced budget. I fully support our balanced budget and I believe that investing in education and transportation is investing in our future.

6. I am not excited about the idea of a smelter in our area, a place that we treasure for it’s clean water, clean

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< ELECTION, con’t from page 16 > air, and natural beauty. I do respect the process and existing laws that allow a private company to apply for a permit to operate a business that complies with current environmental discharge regulations. We’re seeing the public feedback part of that process and it’s clear that most people are not interested in a smelter operating in the area.

As a state senator, I can make sure that our state agencies are actively engaging with their Washington counterparts and I can make sure our voice is heard in the process, but most interaction with the state of Washington will happen through our executive branch of government or through our federal delegation. Washington State Department of Ecology has regulatory authority over the proposed project.

Our Idaho Department of Environmental Quality is interfacing with Washington DOE and will continue to do so.

7. I think the project is a net positive for the area. I live south of Sandpoint and get to observe train traffic standing still on a daily basis, while a southbound train moves past a northbound train or vice versa. I know of a few near fatal accidents at railroad crossings because of trains sitting still near crossings while another train is taking its turn on a section of single track. With two-way traffic, just like any highway or road we travel, trains will move at a consistent speed. So, from a safety perspective at the railroad crossings it is an improvement. It is also an improvement when considering the noise and excessive fuel burn when starting and stopping a train. Finally, railroads are a part of our U.S. economy. As a 5-year old, I lived in what is now the Pine Street Bakery. Many hours were spent in front of the house counting train cars as they passed through town, between our house and Dub’s, on the path we currently use for walking and cycling.

Geography dictates that the trains come through Sandpoint. Perhaps, with appropriate operating practices, we can continue to consider them part of our storied Bonner County culture.

Vera Gadman Democrat

Vera Gadman.

Age: 73 Years of residence in North Idaho: 20 years

Marital status/family: Email: veebuy@yahoo.com Facebook: Phone: QUALIFICATIONS: Education: Hammersmith College of Art, London.

Recent or pertinent employment history: Graphic Designer.

Public offices held: Precinct Captain, Hope.

Nonprofit groups, service or professional organizations to which you belong: Other experiences or skills that qualify you for office: As design director for a major New York branding firm, I worked with many Fortune 500 corporations. I oversaw the growth of the company from 2 employees to over two dozen during my tenure, providing project management and overseeing many design teams.

ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS: 1. My belief is that the Idaho legislature is following a strict agenda controlled by the Washington Republicans. This is not why they were elected, they were elected to look after the needs of Idahoans before following a strict party line without taking into account the needs of their constituents.

2. I support Medicaid Expansion, Prop 2. First of all it will allow the 62,000 Idahoans caught in the gap of making too much for Medicaid but too little for the exchange. Now we pay for their care through emergency rooms and state catastrophic funds.

Secondly, we already pay federal taxes for Medicaid programs, and this money is now going to other states, which prevents $400 million from coming back to Idaho.

3. Education support is critical to the future of Idaho. Governor Otter and the joint budget committee passed a 5.9-percent increase in public school funding. This is a welcome increase.

I believe money should be directed towards paying the teachers more to encourage them to stay in Idaho rather than leaving the state to find jobs in other states offering a living wage .

One in 5 teachers leave to go to other states for higher paying teaching jobs or they just don’t return to teaching. It costs Idaho over $6 million to replace these teachers every year. Research also shows we rank 49th in the nation on school spending. For every dollar spent per student in Idaho, the national average is $1.49.

4. Idaho’s farming industry — one of the state’s top economic drivers — benefits from immigrants who make up over 40 percent of its labor force.

Along with the agricultural makeup we have a large dairy producing business that depends on laborers that have worked in this industry for many

years. I support the idea of bringing in workers that support the economy by working these jobs. There is definitely a need for a comprehensive immigration bill to be passed by the Congress.

5. Education, health care support, infrastructure to keep our roads and bridges from becoming dangerous and providing more jobs.

6. Not only will the proposed smelter produce 320,000 tons of carbon monoxide annually, it is a silicon smelter which produces an invisible dust containing crystalline silica particles. It only takes a very small amount of airborne silica dust to create a health hazard. The additional trucking needed to carry wood chips to the smelter will be detrimental to Idaho roads and bridges and additional trains carrying silica from Canada and from coal from Kentucky will put additional strain on our roads and rail lines that will be costly to repair and all repairs will have to be paid for with Idaho taxes. I would like to see a State Environmental Policy Act review on emissions from the smelter and the Department of Ecology supply an environmental impact study of environmental, socio-economic, aesthetic, and noise level impacts of a proposed smelter.

7. I would like to hear more from research done on the environmental impact to the surrounding areas where they will add the rail lines. I have concerns about rail safety, especially with increased shipping of coal and crude oil along with chemical shipments.

Hazardous cargo is a concern and remembering that in the last two years there have been five train derailments is not very reassuring. The positive aspect is that BNSF promotes a strong culture of railroad safety by installing PTC and its more than 21,000 employees are trained in its operation. More research is needed.

state representatives district 1 seat a Ellen Weissman Democrat

Ellen Weissman.

Age: 65 Years of residence in North Idaho: 25 years Marital status/family: Single mother of two daughters Email: ellenweissmanwins@gmail.com Facebook: ellenweissmanforIdahoDistrict1A Phone: (208) 265-2570 QUALIFICATIONS: Education: B.S. Special and Elementary Education, U. Maine, Farmington; M.Ed., Community Education and Educational Administration, U. Maine, Orono; M.Ed., Curriculum Development and Integrating the Arts in Education, Lesley University.

Recent or pertinent employment history: Executive director of Sandpoint Area Seniors, Inc. (Sandpoint Senior and DayBreak Centers) for the past four years.

Public offices held: Student government representative in high school Nonprofit groups, service or professional organizations to which you belong: International Jugglers Association, Pend Oreille Arts Council, Festival at Sandpoint, Panida Theater Other experiences or skills that qualify you for office: Concern for the people, animals, air and water of North Idaho! I was a member of the Festival at Sandpoint cleanup crew for 10 years and then became the lead for another 10 years. Under my leadership, the cleanup crew became the “Green Team” and now recycles 85-90 percent of the trash from the Festival.

ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS: 1. I have thought about politics for a long time, but the timing never quite fit. After the 2016 election, I was motivated, but it was after the shooting in Florida when I said “enough is enough.” I have worked with kids most of my life and it was hard enough to see them killed again, but when their experience was invalidated by adults, I was extremely upset. I decided, rather than just be frustrated, I’d try to do something about it.

2. Yes, I support the Medicaid expansion in Idaho! We are already paying taxes to the feds that are helping people in other states! Let’s help our own Idahoans who are falling through the cracks! Many of these folks are working two or three jobs to make ends meet and might end up relying on the county indigent fund paying for hospital bills. Let’s take preventative action!

3. I will work to boost funding for education in any way possible!

We must increase teacher pay and hire more teachers so that we can have smaller classrooms. We need to update curriculum and old buildings.

We absolutely must have more school counselors to help troubled kids and

deal with bullying.

4. Many Americans don’t seem to want to do the hard labor jobs in the agricultural industry and if we tell all the undocumented laborers that they must return to their countries, our food system will be in serious trouble. The companies or the agricultural associations must help them get temporary or permanent work visas. Families must not be split apart against their will!

5. Education; roads and infrastructure; health and the environment.

Also I think we need better funding for senior centers and food banks. We need to take better care of our elders and those in need. We will all become elders (hopefully!) and lives can change suddenly making us homeless or in need of food.

6. I am opposed to the smelter. It will poison our air and water for many generations and provide little benefit to Bonner and Boundary county citizens. As a state legislator, I would call Gov. Inslee and demand a fullscale environmental impact statement including a door-to-door survey of everyone in the Inland Northwest, (as well as) an investigation into how this project came into being and exactly who approved it!

7. This project, like the smelter, seems to be happening without full-scale involvement from the local folks who will be affected by it. I do not think enough public forums have happened on it and yet, BNSF seems to be proceeding as though it’s been approved. Or do we actually have a say in this?!

Rep. Heather Scott Republican

Heather Scott.

Age: 49 Years of residence in North Idaho: 20-plus years Marital status/family: Married Email: voteheatherscott@gmail.com Facebook: Heather Scott for North Idaho Phone: (208) 920-3120

QUALIFICATIONS: Education: B.S. - Biology Recent or pertinent employment history: Aquatic biologist working on natural resources and energy projects

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across the United States (1994- 2015); Idaho State Representative (2015 to Present).

Public offices held: Idaho State Representative, Spirit Lake Precinct Committeeman -Republican Party.

Nonprofit groups, service or professional organizations to which you belong: Director, God’s Provision Thrift Store Priest River; Foundation for Wildlife Management; Ducks Unlimited Other experiences or skills that qualify you for office: 25 years in the consulting world and running my own business taught me how to effectively listen and work with people from all walks of life. My ability to connect, to stay focused on tasks, my work ethic of giving 110 percent and my ability to help people find solutions to their problems.

ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS: 1. I got tired of watching government grow and attempt to reach into every aspect of my life. I came to North Idaho because of the rural, self-reliant life style it offers. I don’t believe in asking others to do something for me or that I would not do myself. So instead of sitting on the side lines and complain, I got involved and have been working to make a difference ever since. Is it easy or comfortable? No ,but it is rewarding and exciting to the educated and engaged citizens getting involved with their government.

2. I opposed Medicaid expansion because it will ultimately saddle Idaho with an incredible burgeoning debt.

The continued reliance of our state on any federally-mandated or subsidized program leads Idaho farther down the road to dependence and loss of freedoms. It is another program that will likely discourage some able-body individuals to stop working because they can get free health care. Lastly this Prop 2 would have to be paid somehow by Idaho which can only mean cutting and diverting funds from other already established important programs like public safety, roads, and schools.

5. Roads, public safety, county spending and education.

6. The proposed smelter still is not a for-sure deal, and Idaho has opportunities and fight against it.

I have remained actively engaged by contacting the Idaho governor’s office, agency heads and lieutenant governor’s office asking for their involvement to ensure the protection of Idaho citizens and resources. I have also worked with the various groups opposing the smelter and I have been and will continue to be a strong proponent of insisting Idaho has a voice at the table to insure the protection of our valued north Idaho way of life.

I drafted House Resolution 7 during the 2018 Legislative Session to put the legislature on notice of this issue.

Once I am reelected, I will continue make the 2019 legislature aware of this issue. I know Bonner County’s most valued and irreplaceable resource is our watersheds including Priest Lake and Lake Pend Oreille.

Protecting them from any downwind impacts from the smelter project is my number-one priority.

7. The whining about this needs to stop. BNSF is not going away, and they are a valuable business partner in Bonner County and in Idaho. They provide good jobs, transportation of goods and critical county and state funding in the form of taxes. I am confident that the appropriate protection measures are or will be in place to protect Lake Pend Oreille and expect Idaho agencies to do their job insuring BNSF follows appropriate permits and protocols.

state representatives district 1 seat b Rep. Sage Dixon Republican

3. We have increased funding and are still not seeing better results.

Its time to start looking at where the money is really being spent. High administrative salaries might be a good place to start. Common Core needs to be eliminated from our schools as soon as possible.

4. Idaho businesses should always follow all state and federal laws and only employ legal workers in ALL of our industries. The media would benefit greatly by understanding and correctly reporting the difference between immigration, refugees, illegal aliens and legal citizens.

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Sage Dixon.

Age: 49 Years of residence in North Idaho: 16 years Marital status/family: Wife / seven children Email: sage@sagedixon.com, sdixon@

house.idaho.gov.

Facebook: ElectSageDixon Phone: (208) 610-4800 QUALIFICATIONS: Education: San Jose University - Finance major; continuing Ed classes in Leadership and Sustainable Agriculture.

Recent or pertinent employment history: Electrical Contractor in District 1 for 13 years / currently working in Insurance. District 1 State Representative 2015-present.

ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS: 1. I entered politics because others asked me to serve, and to more accurately represent the changing constituency of Dist 1.

2. I oppose Medicaid expansion for two primary reasons: First, I am philosophically opposed to socialized medicine because its benefits are limited, and it creates a false economy that causes cost increases and transfers. Medicaid expansion is a key component to the ACA (Obamacare) and is intended to address the “gap” population that was created by the ACA. Second, there are a plethora of reasons not to support Proposition 2.

The projected enrollment numbers have all been far below actual enrollment, the projected cost savings have never been realized, hospitals have increased their rates, there are more people added to the waiting rooms of fewer doctors, and studies have shown little measurable increase in overall health.

and then presented to the legislature as a whole. Currently, Education receives 63 percent of our budget. Health and Human Services receives 22 percent, and Law and Justice receives 10 percent. I do not see these percentages changing. However, these percentages could change dramatically if Proposition 2 passes. Additionally, there are a number of large requests in the 2020 budget that could make the process very difficult.

6. I am aware of the concerns that many in our district have regarding the proposed smelter in Newport, and am uneasy with the project myself.

As an out-of-state legislator, the scope of my influence on a Washington project is very limited. The Idaho DEQ is working with the Washington Department of Ecology, and I have informed them of our trepidation with the project. However, in the end, it is a Washington State Issue. I do not want Washington making decisions for Idaho, and must hold the reciprocal true as well.

7. I have seen BNSF be very transparent and forthcoming about this project for over a year. A second rail bridge will help our area by improving the flow of rail traffic and thereby alleviating the number of stoppages in the area. They have addressed the concerns of local and state entities, and have been a generous and active partner with the County Office of Emergency Management.

Stephen Howlett Democrat

3. The legislature has added, on average, $100 million each year for the past three years into the K-12 system. There have been increases in higher education as well. We are committed to another $30 million just for teacher salaries next year, and have been working on a new funding formula that should more evenly distribute funds based on where the student is being educated. I support seeing these efforts to fruition.

4. Undocumented laborers, or foreign-born workers as the industry calls them, should be treated as anyone else who does something illegal. Portions of our agriculture industry insist that they cannot function without these workers, and there is a reality to that assertion. However, we should not turn a blind eye to illegal activity, and should instead work towards finding solutions that will uphold our national immigration policy, while providing the needed labor for our agriculture industry.

Age: 67 Years of residence in North Idaho: My family and I have lived within the Idaho Legislative District 1 for over 41 years.

Marital status/family: My wife is Gerry Ann. We have two granddaughters.

Email: sfhowlett1b@gmail.com Facebook: Candidate Stephen F. Howlett Phone: (208) 597-6433

5. The legislative priorities for budgeting are myriad. Every budget item is thoroughly vetted by our Finance and Appropriation Committee

QUALIFICATIONS: Education: High School Graduate Recent or pertinent employment history: I have owned and operate

Stephen Howlett.

a licensed and bonded building and remodeling business in Boundary County for the last 32 years.

Public offices held: I have been re-elected Precinct Captain for the Naples precinct in Boundary County.

I have held this position for 16 years.

This is my second campaign for Legislative District 1B. Nonprofit groups, service or professional organizations to which you belong: I served for 18 years as a Volunteer EMT-A on the Boundary Volunteer Ambulance, serving for 2 years as President and other board positions. I chaired the Boundary County Parks and Recreation Department for 16 years. Served various positions with the Boundary County Community Theatre. Currently a member of the Boundary County Friends of the Restorium, Boundary County Historical Society and the GROW Boundary County Community garden. I am endorsed by Boundary County and Bonner County Democrat Central Committees.

Other experiences or skills that qualify you for office: I have management skills from running a retail lumber yard as well as operating a Water Well drilling business. I have experience in property management and property maintenance.

ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS: 1. I entered politics as a precinct captain talking about Idaho local and state issues. Then in the 2016 election cycle a pretender was running as a candidate for the State Legislature District 1 Seat B. The inspiration was more of a reaction to finding out that my opponent was misrepresenting himself as a Democrat, when in reality he was an ultra-right conservative who wanted to make a sham out our democratic process. I ran as a write-in candidate and won the primary. I will represent those who feel they are under represented by our current elected representatives.

2. I support Proposition 2 that expands Medicaid for hard-working Idahoans. Health insurance allows for wellness care to keep our work force and their families healthy and productive. It reduces county indigent funding so tax revenues can be redirected to other priorities. The state catastrophic fund would be reduced with payments being made by patients; our rural area hospitals can remain solvent and operations paid for. Bipartisan Idahoans want this, Idahoans want security in knowing their medical needs can be met.

3. I would support a stipend to repay part of our educator’s loan debt.

I think the legislative defense fund has to be eliminated and that budget added to our Education budget. We need to assist school districts with maintenance and operations budget (M/O), helping to reduce property tax levies.

< see ELECTION, page 19 >

< ELECTION, con’t from page 18 >

I would keep our public endowment money in the public schools system and limit the dispersion to other school types (private and secular).

4. The solution to an undocumented labor work force is in the hands of the U.S. Congress.

Idaho Senators Crapo and Risch along with Idaho Representatives Simpson and Labrador need to push for a quick and fair decision.

Our milk producers represent the largest revenue source to Idaho. The undocumented work force has become a dependable and stable labor pool. Undocumented workers are an important work force in other Agriculture based business just as well; field hands on onion and sugar beet farms. These individuals plant and reforest our public and state lands. They are employed in the nursery industry. I support a rapid and fair decision that favors our agri-business and the undocumented workers and their families.

5. My focus will be placed on adjusting the per-student ratio higher, not lower like my opponent supports. I would look into what funds

can be found to replace local maintenance and operation levies, reducing property taxes at a county level.

We have a priority to fix our bridges, roads, and infrastructure along with other crumbling state assets. I will commit funds to accomplish this. Health care solutions are a concern for the Medicaid-gap community addressed in Proposition 2. I will support it when it passes and I will commit to this program if it fails bringing the funds available from the Federal Government back to Idaho where it belongs.

6. I oppose this project personally and will do what is allowed to prevent it from happening.

Right now it is out of Idaho’s jurisdiction to intervene directly, if approved by Washington State EPA. 7. Idaho could require that rail cars are covered with a tarp just as the state requires vehicles to be tarped. Idaho should push for trains within their borders to be equipped with Automatic Train Stop systems.

Next week, we’ll publish answers from candidates running for races in Bonner County.

Don’t forget to vote: Tuesday, Nov. 6.

COMMUNITY

In the Halloween spirit

Sandpoint residents are getting in the Halloween spirit this week, with lots of houses sporting some spooky-fun decorations.

Top: A house on Pine St. in Sandpoint with spiderwebs, graves, coffins and more.

Bottom left: A home along North Boyer Ave. with a dozen skeletons busy preparing for another Hallow’s Eve. Bottom Right: Joe’s Philly Cheesesteak normally has quick service, but this guy looks like he’s been waiting for some time!

Photos by Ben Olson.

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STAGE & SCREEN

‘Skid Row Marathon’ and ‘How to Defuse a Bomb” Two inspiring documentaries at the Panida

Left: Dennis Mulcahy of NYPD, whose work spearheaded Project Children and is the subject of “How to Defuse a Bomb.” Right: Superior Judge Craig Mitchell (center in red tank top) leads a running group for homeless in Los Angeles. Courtesy still images from films.

By Erik Daarstad Reader Contributor

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Sandpoint Film Festival has added the showings of two feature documentaries as part of the Festival this year. Showing on Thursday night Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m. at the Panida is “How to Defuse a Bomb.”

In 1975, Irish immigrant Dennis Mulcahy of the NYPD bomb squad gathered a group of family, friends and neighbors to start a project offering children from Northern Ireland a chance to temporarily escape the violent turmoil of their daily lives in their own country and thus Project Children was born.

From modest beginnings, Project Children ultimately made it possible for over 20,000 Catholic and Protestant children to visit the U.S. for a summer. Here they forged unexpected friendships and discovered they had more in common with the “enemy” than they thought.

“I’m young enough to only remember the last decade of The Troubles,” says director Des Henderson, “a decade in which things seemed to get progressively worse in Northern Ireland before they got better. As tough and unnerving as it was to grow up in Mid-Ulster, it must have been nothing compared to growing up in the urban centres of Belfast and Derry during the ‘70s. It was these same images that prompted a group of friends from New York to intervene in the lives of vulnerable, impressionable kids to try and coax them away from violence.”

“Skid Row Marathon”screens on / October 25, 2018

Friday Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m. It is a criticallyacclaimed documentary and has already won 13 different awards from 10 different U.S. film festivals. It is the heart-warming and inspiring story of an unlikely group of individuals from LA’s Skid Row - an area well known for being forgotten by society.

A criminal court judge, Craig Mitchell, starts a running club on LA’s notorious skid row. The club’s members, comprised of homeless drug addicts, a recovering single mom and a paroled murderer, consider themselves among those least likely to succeed. Three times a week, Judge Mitchell heads down to the Midnight Mission, a homeless shelter for recovering drug addicts, and takes the residents running. If they refrain from drug abuse and stay out of prison, Mitchell will take them around the world to run marathons.

As they train together to run in international marathons, they learn to dream big as they are re-acquainted with their own dignity. It is a story that celebrates second chances and overcoming obstacles.

It’s also a story with a happy ending as many of the runners have gone on to steady jobs and kicking their habits for good – thanks to running. Runner’s World Section Editor Rick Pearson said: “To watch it is to be reminded of the goodness that exists in everyone – and the redemptive power of putting one foot in front of the other.”

For more information about this weekend’s Sandpoint Film Festival, log onto www.sandpointfilmfestival.com.

COMMUNITY

Mom, Dad … are you ready Laughing Matter to have ‘the TALK’?

By Bill Borders

Cedar Hills offers parents a frank discussion on SEX ED

By Reader Staff Very few of us can look back on “the talk” about sex that we had as kids with our parents, and say it was a positive experience. In fact, for a lot of us, that conversation never took place.

The reality is that as adults and parents ourselves now, we are in the same position our parents once were: with a responsibility to help our kids navigate sexual temptation, peer pressure and raging hormones as they grow.

For parents or adults looking for help with how to handle this responsibility, Cedar Hills Church is offering SEX ED, an afternoon discussion with local educators, pastors and counselors about approaching your kids on the topic of SEX. This workshop-style event will be Sunday, Nov. 4, 12:30-2 p.m. at Cedar Hills, 227 McGhee Road, Sandpoint. Lunch and childcare will be provided.

The event won’t feature a panel of experts; rather it’s a group of people who

regularly work with kids and have worthwhile experiences and tips to share. They’ll discuss such topics as: •How do we bring up the conversation of sex with our kids?

•When is it too early to talk with them?

When is it too late?

•How are pressures our kids face today different than what we faced as kids?

•How do we help our kids create healthy boundaries and make wise choices?

•Does God say anything about sex – and if so, what does he say?

You’ll get a chance to ask tough questions and hear honest, compelling answers.

Hopefully you’ll see a bit of your story as a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle or godparent in their story. Everyone is invited.

For more info, please contact Mahle Wilson at Cedar Hills Church - mahle@ cedarhillschurch.com, (208) 265-8500.

Keep calm, Williamson is still with Waterkeepers

By Shannon Williamson Reader Columnist Good news – I’m still with Lake Pend Oreille Waterkeeper! In all our excitement to introduce our new Waterkeeper Chantilly Higbee last week, we failed to mention that I will continue to lead LPOW’s efforts to keep our local waterways swimmable, fishable and drinkable as the Executive Director of the organization.

I’m honored that our community expressed concern about my potential departure, you know how to make a girl feel good!

But in all seriousness, this new chapter for LPOW has been long in the making and we’re so excited. By adding a dedicated Waterkeeper to our team of one, we’re now able to take our work to the

next level. Chantilly’s boots are already on the ground and she’s psyched to do everything she can to protect what we all hold very dear – Lake Pend Oreille.

Spoiler alert – we’ll soon introduce our new communications associate to the community. I’m personally elated (and relieved) that our team of one will soon be a team of three.

We are not growing for the sake of growing because that’s not how it works in the nonprofit world. We are growing out of a real need to keep our most precious water resources safe for future generations. We need your help. Please become a supporting member today at www.lpow.org.

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Republican Slate is Best...

Misleading Info on Prop 2...

Dear Editor, Would two candidates running in the 2018 Democrat primary prevent Democrat votes from crossing over into the Republican primary to vote for a “moderate” Republican Commissioner? (YES) When the “moderate” Republican Commissioner lost the 2018 primary, did the highly liberal Democrat become severely disadvantaged to an ideological spectrum gap within Bonner County? (YES) The Democrat solution to the above problem was described to me by a reliable source with knowledge of a “Democrat plan,” to become operational after the 2018 primary consisting of Patricia Wentworth, abandoning her primary win and being replaced by a less liberal candidate, in order to close the ideological spectrum gap in the general election.

The above plan materialized through the summer of 2018, one plan for result A, and, another plan for result B. The Democrats may find solace in their bait-and-switch tactics, but the electors should be well aware of their unethical strategies, past, present and future. Participants of such an orchestrated plan, have displayed judgment that is untrustworthy and taints the specific participants, as well as the party as a whole.

I take the time to describe the “behind-the-obscene” events, because they’re symptomatic of systemic Democrat distrust. A future plan under consideration can’t be dismissed when understanding that Lockwood has vacated two elective positions already in his political career, and is again suspect to abandon the County Commissioner seat if elected.

Birds of a feather flock together in Bonner County Democrat circles and Lockwood has led in this strategy.

Additionally, the representation made by Thatcher in the Oct. 18 Reader LTE that candidate for commissioner, Bradshaw, has not identified his political positions is absolutely false.

Having read and listened to multiple sources Bradshaw has identified that he opposes: 5G installation (property rights and health), regionalization of Sandpoint sewer and recreational projects (taxing), smelter construction (health, environment and legal), Obamacare (Proposition 2), special interests, forgone tax use (theft). Simultaneously, Bradshaw approves: faith in God, mending division, fiscal responsibility, pro-life, Second Amendment, integrity, accountability, morality, reasonable analysis and common sense solutions.

Commissioner McDonald’s multiyear plan to put the county finances on a sustainable path is unfinished and his efforts to date are deserving of further attempted progress.

All things considered above, the Republican slate best represents leadership and credibility available to the Bonner County electors.

Dear Editor, The Idaho Freedom Foundation has got it all wrong. (Reader, Oct. 18).

Claiming that support for Medicaid expansion -- that citizens throughout the state have put on the Nov. 6 general election ballot as Proposition 2 -- would harm Idahoans, is not true.

As an example, Medicaid expansion in our neighboring Montana is saving the state money. An independent Montana analysis showed that the expansion will create $350 million to $400 million of new spending in Montana’s economy each year. “It’s hard to imagine a better picture than being able to cover 94,000 Montanans in a way that actually pays for itself,” said Aaron Wernham, CEO of the Montana Healthcare Foundation that commissioned the analysis.

The Montana report also debunked claims that Medicaid expansion would subsidize people who are able to work. In fact, following the Medicaid expansion, labor force participation among low-income Montanans ages 18 to 65 increased.

In Idaho, 62,000 residents fall into the gap where they make too much to qualify for Medicare but too little to qualify for health insurance on the state exchange. But we’re already paying for their care in the least efficient way in the emergency rooms through county indigent and state catastrophic funds. Our federal taxes for the Medicaid program are going to other states preventing $400 million of federal funds from coming back to Idaho.

The expansion would save about $15 million a year through decrease to the catastrophic and indigent care funds.

Consultants have shown that Idaho could stop the budget drain in its county-financed medical indigent and state catastrophic health care programs – expected to need an additional $284 million over the next 10 years – while saving $6.5 million instead, while creating local jobs in the health care industry (estimated additional tax revenue from 5,000 new jobs -- $20 million).

Idaho business owners, county sheriffs, doctors, nurses and teachers agree – that Proposition 2 makes economic sense and it’s the right thing to do. Vote “Yes” on Proposition Two.

Dan Rose Samuels 22 /

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/ October 25, 2018

Jim Ramsey Sandpoint

Smelter is Most Important Local Issue This Election...

Dear Editor, The most important local issue for me in the upcoming election is the possibility that a smelter will be built just over the border in Newport, Wash. Judging from yard signs and high attendance at meetings, this is a wildly unpopular proposal.

Although Bonner County commissioners will not be the ones to decide on permits for a smelter, they can ask questions, provide input on the scope of study, and advocate for their constituents’ concerns. Our current District

3 Commissioner, however, is taking a passive role and, according to a video on his website, is waiting for the draft Environmental Impact Statement in 2019.

In contrast, Steve Lockwood has been proactive on the smelter issue and has provided thoughtful written comments for the record. He requested that all of Bonner County be included in the study area; questioned how the greatly increased truck and rail traffic would impact county roads and quality of life; asked who would bear the financial burden of this additional traffic; and expressed concerns about pollution degrading our air quality and impacting tourism, water quality, and residents’ health (see https://lockwood4commissioner.com/2018/09/).

I want a commissioner who will be a strong advocate — all the time — for our county and our concerns, not one who is willing to let out-of-state bureaucrats determine our fate. That’s why I support Steve Lockwood for Bonner County Commissioner.

Please join me in voting for Steve Lockwood on Nov. 6.

Nancy Foster Renk Sandpoint

Kudos to Lyndsie Kiebert...

Dear Editor, Kudos to Lyndsie Kiebert for her outstanding article “Lessons From An Elk Hunter” which appeared in the Oct. 18 issue of the Reader. The combination of humor, nostalgia and ethos is wonderful. This sounds like hunting as it should be. It would be appropriate to forward this to Gov. Butch Otter to illustrate that North Idaho hunters have the ethics necessary to interact with wildlife in a respectful way. Also, the photos accompanying the article are spectacular. Sounds like the Kiebert girls learned how to participate in life and enjoy it fully. Thanks for sharing.

Jane Holzer Hope

Steve Lockwood will listen...

Dear Editor, County commissioners manage a large workforce from many departments. They also work with other government entities, community leaders, businesses, civic organizations and the many residents with various problems or interests. Fighting with people seldom gets good results. Working with others to better understand the issues and options requires attentive listening and effective collaboration. Steve Lockwood listens and collaborates. He manages effectively and openly.

Steve is not interested in partisan political fights. He is focused on the issues that shape Bonner County’s future: He will address the challenges of growth with careful planning and management to assure that private property rights are respected.

Steve has the experience to help find solutions to the shortage of housing

that is affordable.

He will work to see that our schools receive the funding they need to be the best.

He will ask the right questions from the developers of the proposed smelter (and others) to assure Bonner County has clean air, clean water and property values that do not plummet.

Steve supports the full implementation of the Idaho Panhandle National forest plan. It will help bring good jobs and common sense management and protections to our public lands.

Steve has the management experience, open attitude and willingness to ask the right questions. He listens to people and as commissioner would make a positive difference for the future of Bonner County. Vote for Steve Lockwood, he will work for all Bonner County residents. Steve is right for Bonner County!

Philip Hough Sagle

Gow’s 28 Years Experience is Asset..

Dear Editor, Donna Gow is running for Bonner County Assessor in the upcoming election. I am asking you for your vote, and continued support.

I served as Bonner County Coroner for 31 years, and can tell you that on the job training is important. Donna’s 28 years of experience in the Assessor’s office gives her the training, the schooling and the history. She and her husband, George, own and operate a small business here in the county. They are property owners and have invested, themselves, their money and they believe in Bonner County. Their two sons are both service oriented, Greg with the U.S. Air Force and Michel with the Selkirk Fire Department.

We as Bonner County property owners do not need to educate, and then train a new office manager. I would classify that expense as “unneeded overhead.” Donna has the history, and background, of the office. She is familiar with the employees, knows where the files are and can go to work, with efficiency, when she is sworn in.

Please join me in voting for Donna Gow, Bonner County Assessor on Nov. 6. Your vote is your voice, please let us hear from you.

Dale G. Coffelt Sandpoint

McDonald says “move” ...

Dear Editor, Dan McDonald’s remarks at a public meeting, which were released last week, should be concerning to Bonner County residents. Several people were voicing concerns about silica emissions from proposed Hi-Test smelter blowing toward their homes. McDonald’s exact words were: “If you don’t like this in your backyard, I get that,” but “right now real estate is jacked,” “you could make a ton of money and move someplace else.”

Seriously? This is callous and dismis-

sive coming from a public figure. No surprise, the immediate response from a man present was, “I don’t want to run away. I love it here!”

Essentially, McDonald’s reaction to those worried about the prospects of toxic particles drifting into our community was “MOVE.” My husband and I came here 43 years ago and together built a home in the Selle Valley to raise our three sons and establish small businesses. Our roots run deep and no pot of money will ever be as valuable to us as our personal home, family and friends here.

Throughout this election cycle, McDonald has played non-committal, but indications appear he’ll throw-in with developers for a few jobs and ignore the environmental damage for the many living here.

In contrast, Steve Lockwood has expressed concerns about this proposed smelter. I’ve heard him respectfully listen to citizens sharing their thoughts and questions regarding the protection of their health and property values.

Please vote Steve Lockwood for County Commissioner to keep Bonner County the place we’ll want to continue calling our home!

Rebecca Holland Sandpoint

Lockwood has character...

Dear Editor, Of all the different levels of government, local government has the most immediate effect on our lives because it is so close to where we live.

The office of county commissioner is one such locally elected position that we will vote on in November. County Commissioners help provide citizens with the services they want and need.

Some of the services that fall under that umbrella include maintaining roads and bridges, operating the county jail and running the courts.

Everyone has their own way of picking a candidate. I choose a candidate with the experience to govern as well as what they have done for the community in the past. But, most importantly I look for character in an individual. I look for someone that can bring citizens together to work on important local issues.

I look for someone who will serve the people-all of the people, rich and poor.

Luckily, I know one such candidate who is running for Commissioner.

For me, Steve Lockwood brings those qualities to the race. He entered this race with one intention and that was to improve the lives of the citizen in Bonner County. Steve has been active in the community since moving to Sandpoint.

He is well respected among the people he works with and that means a lot.

So, I am casting my vote for Steve Lockwood and I hope you will consider Steve for your vote also. He has the ability and temperament to make an outstanding County Commissioner. He will work hard to represent us well.

Jane Hoover Priest River

HEALTH

SHAKE, RATTLE AND ROLL

A column about the trials and tribulations of Parkinson’s Disease

By A.C. Woolnough Reader Columnist

I did my duty

men and boys revert to a 15-year old sense of humor when poop is the subject), I wonder if FedEx Years ago, many knows their planes and trucks are years ago, I had a transporting samples of stool and T-shirt collection cases of crap? Did you know there from the dozens of is an official Bristol Stool Chart 5K and 10K races to rate and evaluate poop? Really.

I used to run. Of Google it! course I was much Now that most of the silliness younger, leaner and is out of my system, let’s explore more fit. Although the science behind collecting these A.C. Woolnough.

I no longer run, I samples. To that end, it is importstill have a sizable collection of T-shirts. ant to know that in studies like this one, These days, they come from Parkinresearchers try to categorize samples in son’s foundations, activities, fundraising a variety of ways — gender, age, with or efforts, research projects, PD support without a certain condition (in this case, groups and other Parkinson’s stuff.

Parkinson’s). In other words, a subject Two of my favorites were custom group and a control group. The goal might made for me by Sand Creek Custom be to find a biomarker, a definitive meaWear—a great hometown business. One sure of the presence or absence of a disof them, in day-glo yellow, has a standing ease. For example if 95 percent of PWP’s rat wearing a lab coat with the caption: (people with Parkinson’s) have a certain “Human Lab Rat.” The other has a cartype of gut bacteria while the folks withtoon of a mad scientist holding a bubbling out PD don’t have this particular strain, beaker. The caption: “I’m Donating My it’s worth pursuing as a way to diagnose Body to Science... While Still Alive.” the condition. Many researchers believe There are several layers of truth in PD starts in the gut and may migrate up what they say. As of last week, during the enteric nervous system to the brain. my participation in numerous ParkinEarly diagnosis (maybe even years before son’s disease research projects, I have motor symptoms like tremor begin) might donated the following: blood (over 50 lead to better therapies that slow, halt or test tubes), cerebro-spinal fluid (the stuff reverse the progression of the disease. As they get from a spinal tap), urine, saliva a PWP, the idea that an effective treatment (you just gotta love spitting in a tube) may be inside me is amazing. and tissue samples ranging from the size Most cases of PD — most of the of a grain of rice to a pencil eraser. These 60,000 new diagnoses each year in the were excised from: legs, shoulders, saliU.S. — are labeled idiopathic (meaning vary glands and colon. we don’t know the specific cause). It is To that list, I can now proudly add — generally assumed there is some unknown there is no delicate way to put this — a mechanism involving environmental stool sample. Yep, call it fecal matter, factors and unknown genetic interactions excrement, dung, or whatever, it’s still that trigger the disease. Some experts poop and can be a really crappy subject. have even suggested there is a PD-specI even got a sticker that says, “I did my trum of disorders. In other words, when duty.” I envision some unfortunate lab people say, “If you’ve met one person tech (undoubtedly a recent hire with no with Parkinson’s, you’ve met one person seniority) whose job it is to open the with Parkinson’s,” it may literally be true. cardboard box, unpack the styrofoam On the other hand, a more complete analcase, pull out the biohazard bag, toss the ysis of gut microbia may point researchfreezer brick, and retrieve the inner bag ers in some novel and positive directions. of poop. I especially wonder what they After being diagnosed with Parkinsay when friends, children or parents ask son’s Disease, A.C. is calling on his 37 them what they do for a living. If they years in K-12 education to became a learned about alliteration in high school, “Parkinon’s warrior”educating the pubthey might respond with professional lic, advocating for a cure and participatpoop unpacker. As I continue in a someing in research. what sophomoric vein, (after all, most

Just a short drive across the Long Bridge...

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FOOD

The Sandpoint Eater

Please pass the pulses

By Marcia Pilgeram Reader Food Columnist Last week was picture perfect, and Sandpoint could have been the September cover girl for most beautiful fall location, as evidenced by the countless Facebook posts that popped up on my feed. I took full advantage of it too. Between the Bypass Trail, the Bay Trail and several jaunts around town, I logged about 15 sun-drenched miles, and I don’t recall the leaves ever being so colorful — myriad shades of shimmery cherry and crimson and a million hues of gold.

Maybe it was Mother Nature’s consolation prize after our smoke-filled summer. There was sure no need to go much further than our own backyards to enjoy leaf-peeping at its finest. But now I’m noticing as many leaves at my feet as there are fluttering over my head, and it won’t be much longer until they’re all raked and bagged or have blown away as the trees ready themselves for winter.

I’m getting ready for winter too, and there’s plenty to do, starting with buying the biggest turkey I can find as the flock seated at my Thanksgiving table has grown to twenty-four. These “mouths to feed” come in every shape, size and palate. Some serious carnivores will join vegetarians and flexitarians alike, and I can barely wait to have them all gathered around the table(s).

For some flexitarian ideas, I phoned a friend: my daughter Casey’s good pal and former classmate, smart-as-a-whip, Becky Garrison (call me biased, but I think SHS turned out an exceptionally smart bunch of graduates 24 /

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in 2006).

Armed with a degree in nutrition (and an award-winning smile), dietitian Becky has landed a dream job. She’s the savvy domestic marketing director for the U.S. Dry Pea and Lentil Council, headquartered in Moscow, Idaho. Becky travels around the country to food and restaurant shows promoting the Pulses of the Palouse.

“Pulse” comes from the Latin words puls or pultis meaning “thick soup.” Pulse crops are small members of the legume family, which contains over 1,800 different species. Pulse crops are the seeds of legumes

that are used as food and include peas, beans, chickpeas and lentils. Some of the best lentils in the world are the small ones grown nearby in the Palouse.

Besides lentils, garbanzo beans are another Pulse crop that has recently grown in popularity. Thanks to our favorite creamy dip, hummus, garbanzos (chickpeas) are also now a major cash crop in the Palouse region.

Pulses have a lot going for them: They’re relatively cheap, compared to ancient grains like quinoa, have twice the protein and they’re gluten free. These nitrogen-rich crops are also very good for the agri-environment.

Besides being staples in many tasty Indian dishes and hearty soups, Pulses are often the major non-meat protein found in many vegetarian staples, such as the veggie-burger. Think beyond green, thick pea soup — you can even buy split pea and chick peas flours, both of which I am eager to try out for some savory baking.

Smart Becky says Pulses help combat obesity, diabetes and heart disease, and she encourages us to incorporate a “half-cup habit” into our diets at least three times a week. To learn more about Pulses, and get some great recipes, you can find them on

Facebook at USA Pulses.

If you can’t decide where to start, I highly recommend their recipe for Three Bean Soup with Tomato Pesto. And if you must accommodate a carnivore, you can add some sliced grilled sausages as a topping.

Note: To ensure sibling harmony at the holiday table, I want to mention another great graduating class at SHS, and so I give a big shout out to the brilliant 1999 SHS graduates that included my oldest daughter Ryanne (as well as esteemed past Reader editor Zach and present publisher, Ben).

Now, if only quelling politics at that table could be as easy…

Three Bean Soup with Tomato Pesto Recipe and photo courtesy of USA PULSES

Served 6 guests

This hearty soup stands alone for dinner. I substituted black beans for kidney beans and used smoked paprika. Don’t be tempted to skip the Tomato Pesto step - it adds a nice flavor profile to this delicious soup!

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

For Soup: • extra virgin olive oil • 1 large russet potato, peeled, washed, diced into small cubes • 1 can (15-oz per can) diced tomatoes • 1 tbsp white vinegar • 1 tbsp ground coriander • 1 tsp Spanish paprika • salt and pepper • 5 cups low-sodium vegetable broth • 8 oz frozen spinach, no need to thaw • 2 cups cooked red kidney beans • 2 cups cooked cannellini beans • 2 cups cooked chickpeas (garbanzo beans) • basil leaves for garnish, optional • 1⁄3 cup toasted pine nuts for garnish, optional

In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat two tbsp of olive oil. Reduce heat to medium and add the diced potatoes and onions. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, tossing regularly.

Add tomatoes, vinegar, spices, salt and pepper. Stir to combine. Cover and cook for another 4 minutes.

Uncover, add vegetable broth and frozen spinach.

Raise heat to medium-high and bring to a boil for 4 minutes or so. Add the kidney beans, cannellini beans, and chickpeas. Bring back to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.

Cover and cook for another 15 to 20 minutes (potatoes should be tender at this point).

While soup is cooking, make the tomato pesto. In the bowl of a food processor fitted with a blade, place

For Pesto: • 2 large garlic cloves, • 1 1⁄2 cup diced fresh tomatoes • 15 large basil leaves, •1 /2 cup extra virgin olive oil • salt and pepper • 1⁄3 cup grated parmesan cheese

garlic and tomatoes. Pulse a few times to combine. Add basil and puree. While processor is running, drizzle in the olive oil a little bit at a time. Transfer the thick tomato pesto to a bowl, and stir in grated Parmesan.

When soup is ready, remove from heat. Stir in the tomato pesto. Transfer to serving bowl.

Top each bowl with a few basil leaves and toasted pine nuts.

Enjoy with your favorite crusty bread!

COMMUNITY

Halloween Happenings

By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff

From kids to kids at heart, there’s plenty going on around Sandpoint over the weekend and into next week to make this spooky season memorable for everyone.

Here are just a few ideas: Halloween Party @ the Bonner County Fairgrounds 4203 N. Boyer Avenue, Sandpoint Friday, Oct. 26 6-9 p.m.

This free event, hosted by the Bonner County Fair Staff and Fair Board, includes a kid-friendly movie, games, plenty of candy and a costume contest. There will be four best costumes chosen: most creative, best handmade, funniest and scariest.

“Little Shop of Horrors” and “The Shining” Halloween Double Feature @ the Panida 300 N. First Avenue, Sandpoint Oct. 26, 28, 31 What better way to celebrate the season than to revisit some of your favorite spooky flicks?

Screenings of “The Shining” are 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 26 and 8:30 p.m. on Oct. 31. Screenings of “Little Shop of Horrors” are 3:30 p.m. on Oct. 28 and 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 31.

“It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” @ the Panida 300 N. First Avenue, Sandpoint Saturday, Oct. 27 11:30 a.m.

Enjoy free popcorn and a free showing of this Halloween classic, courtesy of Kinderhaven, and sponsored by Bonner General Health, Finan McDonald and the Panida Theater.

Dio de los Muertos Party @ the Granary District Saturday, Oct. 27 4 p.m.

Evans Brothers Coffee and Matchwood Brewing Co. are hosting the first annual Day of the Dead celebration in the Granary District, starting with a Commu-

nity Alter. Bring photos and other offerings to honor your ancestors and lost loved ones. There will be a full food menu, face painting, sugar skulls, kids crafts and a screening of “Coco” at Matchwood from 4-8 p.m., as well as Latin music from the Los Flacos Band of Seattle 6-8 p.m. Then, the party moves to Evans Brothers for a dance party at 9 p.m. with DJ Boomerang of Tampa, Fla. Tickets are at Evans Brothers for $5 in advance or $7 at the door. A limited $15 special ticket includes a commemorative Day of the Dead pint glass and face painting at Matchwood.

Boo Bash Costume Ball @ Sandpoint Community Hall 204 S. 1st Avenue, Sandpoint Saturday, Oct. 27 7 p.m.

Enjoy refreshments, door prizes and a costume contest at the Boo Bash Dance, hosted by Sandpoint’s USA Dance chapter.

The fun begins at 7 p.m. with a tango lesson. $6 for USA Dance members, $9 for non-members and $5 for teens.

Queen B Halloween Show @ the Sandpoint Eagles Club 1511 John Hudon Lane, Sandpoint Saturday, Oct. 27 Doors 8 p.m. Show 9 p.m.-12 a.m.

This annual drag show features a costume contest, drink specials and plenty of entertainment. Cover is $8 at the door. Must be 21 years or older with an ID to enter.

First Year Anniversary and Hallo-wine Party @ the BackDoor 111 Cedar Street, lower level, Sandpoint Saturday, Oct. 27 The BackDoor Bar celebrates one year of business with a Michael David wine tasting 5:307:30 p.m. and live music 8:30-10 p.m. Dress up for a chance to win the costume contest!

Trunk or Treat @ Davis Grocery and Mercantile 620 Wellington Place, Hope Wednesday, Oct. 31 2-4 p.m.

Check out Hope’s new cafe and soon-to-be grocery store at this family-friendly event, featuring pumpkin carving, face painting, games, a costume contest and prizes for all who attend. This is a Teal Pumpkin Project event, meaning Davis Grocery is striving to make a happier Halloween for kids with food allergies by providing alternative treats.

6th Annual Trick-or-Treat @ Sandpoint City Hall 1123 Lake Street, Sandpoint Wednesday, Oct. 31 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Local school-aged kids are invited to visit City Hall to kick off their Halloween festivities. Both first and second floor departments will be passing out treats while supplies last. Parks and Recreation will also hand out ballots so you can vote for the best-decorated department.

Family Costume Night @ Creations On the Cedar Street Bridge Wednesday, Oct. 31 4-7 p.m.

The whole family is invited to dress up, play games and collect candy at this event.

18th Annual Harvest Party @ Clark Fork High School 121 E. 4th Avenue, Clark Fork Wednesday, Oct. 31 5:30-7:30 p.m.

This harvest party, hosted by the Cabinet Mountain Calvary Chapel in Clark Fork, is a “fun and safe alternative to wandering the streets in the cold and dark.”

Dress up, enjoy carnival games and prizes and leave with a bag of candy.

Trick-or-Treat @ the Bonner County History Museum 611 S. Ella Street, Sandpoint Wednesday, Oct. 31 4-7 p.m.

Nothing compares to the museum on Halloween, decorated to the nines and spooky as all get-out.

Trick-or-treat at the museum then

Shake it like a skeleton.

Courtesy photo.

head to the Lion’s Den for warm drinks. This event is sponsored by Kaniksu Health Services.

Monster Mash Under-21 Party @ the Hive 207 N. First Avenue, Sandpoint Wednesday, Oct. 31 Doors at 7 p.m., show at 8 Low Country Boil presents Topp at this no-alcohol event.

Costumes are encouraged. Tickets are $10 in advance, and $12 at the door.

Halloween Party @ the 219 219 N. First Avenue, Sandpoint Dress up and dance the night away while enjoying drink specials at the 219 Lounge. Best costume receives a prize. Local favorite Truck Mills and his fourpiece band will provide the tunes 8-11 p.m.

Once Upon a Disenchanted Forest Halloween Party @ Eichardt’s Pub 219 N. First Avenue, Sandpoint 8pm until late Eichardt’s pub is throwing a Grimm Disney Halloween Party with enchanted hour drink and food specials from 8-9 p.m., followed by a dance party with DJ Jedi at 9 p.m. that goes until your carriage turns back into a pumpkin.

This week’s RLW by Lyndsie Kiebert

READ

“The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian”

by Sherman Alexie came into my life through pretty traditional channels — the University of Idaho’s Native American Literature course — but this novel is anything but traditional. Told through the eyes of a young native boy, Junior, the story follows his journey off the Spokane Indian Reservation and into an all-white school “where the only other Indian is the school mascot.” Based on Alexie’s own experience and peppered with his signature dark humor, this book is honest and at times heartbreaking.

It is absolutely required reading for anyone who grew up in the Inland Northwest.

LISTEN

As a volleyball coach, I spend a lot of time on school buses with teenage girls. This makes really good albums — played best through headphones while watching North Idaho fly by in a blur — very necessary. My favorite from this past season is “Delirium” by Old Man Canyon. Jett Pace’s vocals compliment the band’s dream-pop tunes to create a hazy, sunny-day sound.

My choice tracks include “Sugar City” and “Learn to Forget” — but the album is best played start to finish.

WATCH This suggestion isn’t so much “watch” but more “check out.”

There’s no shortage of nice people doing cool things in Sandpoint, and Hannah Meek is a perfect example. She’s a content creator and videographer who’s been freelancing here and there for a while, but now does full content creation for Evans Brothers Coffee and La Chic Boutique. Her endeavors are under an official name as of this week: Meek Media House. Find her on Instagram and see her creativity in action!

October 25, 2018 /

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The Straight Poop: The quest for dog-friendly businesses in North Idaho Hickey Farms From Sandpoint News Bulletin, Oct. 7, 1965

BEACH SHELTER TO BE BUILT BY LIONS CLUB A picnic shelter approximately 54 by 54 feet in size, covering an area of about 2,500 square feet, will provide shelter and cooking facilities for visitors to Sandpoint’s beach next summer, according to plans made by the Lions club at their Sept. 27 meeting.

Of pole frame construction, the huge facility will allow storage of 40 tables during the winter months. It will contain four iron barbecue fireplaces on the concrete foundation. It will provide shelter for scores of persons. The location will furnish a view of the lake and mountains.

The facility will be situated between the present barbecue shelter and the restrooms on the south end of the beach.

Publicity Chairman Bob Glock said excavation will commence this fall, with much voluntary labor already donated.

Visitors who have entered Spokane on the Newport highway, driving down Division at the edge of Northtown may have noticed a picnic facility - a prototype of the shelter to be constructed on the beach - which is situated on the southeast corner of Franklin park adjoining Division. The Spokane shelter was constructed at a cost of about $8,000. Sandpoint Lions figure they can build the beach shelter for approximately $3,000 with donated labor and some free material.

The facility will be ready for the 1966 summer season, according to present plans.

Clarence Stilwell heads the construction committee.

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/ October 25, 2018

By Drake the Dog Reader Pet Columnist

Where am I taking my humans today?

Oh my gourd!

•The name for the featured product in this place showed up for the first time in the fairy tale Cinderella •The originals were made by the Irish with turnips and potatoes •This product is grown on every continent except Antarctica and over 1.5 billion pounds are produced each year in the US •About 80 percent of this crop (800 million of these guys) are available in October •The world’s heaviest one was grown in Germany in 2016 and weighed over 2600 lbs.

•Each of these has about 500 seeds, take 90-120 days to grow, and is technically a fruit •The largest pie ever baked using this ingredient weighed 3,699 pounds.

•Sales of products flavored with this droolin’ good item totaled over $414 million in 2017, which included cereal, coffee, and even dog food!

Good clues, eh? Have you figured it out yet? Actually, my inspiration for this venture came while we were watching a TV show this week. I heard this little kid say, “Each year the Great Pumpkin rises out of a pumpkin patch that he thinks is the most sincere. I don’t see how a pumpkin patch can be more sincere than this one — he’s gotta pick it! You look around and there’s not a sign of hypocrisy. Nothing but sincerity as far as the eye can see.” So I called up my hunting dog girlfriends, Belle and Scooter, to help me sniff out this place.

With the help of Google maps we followed the trail (Hwy 200) to Hickey Farms Pumpkin Patch located at 384-1148 Hickey Rd. The farm was built in 1916, and the Hickey family has owned this working farm since 1923. It was one of the first places in Sandpoint to have indoor plumbing. This was most unusual, since most abodes had outhouses. Grandpa Jack Hickey was born in 1912, and moved here from Montana. He had a red healer named Speck. Speck’s most favorite activity was swimming in the pond and helping the crew milk the cows. A photo op with Jack and Speck awaits you at the farm. Over the years, the family has had many farm dogs, named Speck, Speck, and Speck. Today Jim

and Jackie Hickey own the farm. Jackie’s son, Jeff Holt told us how all of the family members Mark, Dean, Kristie and Karrie have given the farm a new leash on life.

There’s no ruff stuff here… it’s all about picking the purr-fect pumpkin right off the vine. Mark your calendars, now, as the farm is only open in October. Due to their fur-ward thinking, family activities include a corn maize (5,000 feet in length) with an 8-foot slide, a bouncy castle, wagon train, farm tours, face painting, craft vendors, food, and a country store. The farm also offers school group tours. Need a place for a birthday party?

The Hickey Farms Party Shed is the place.

Fetch your own decorations, drinks, cake and ice cream. Fur a price of $10 each, children are able to experience all of the activities at the farm and even take home a pumpkin!

We just had to find out why carved pumpkins are a symbol of Halloween. The tradition of carving faces into vegetables dates back to the Celts. As part of their autumnal celebration, they wanted to light the way to their homes for the good spirits, so they carved faces into vegetables such as turnips and squash. Now you know.

I wish this warm and fuzzy farm was open on Halloween. Belle, Scooter and I would nix the costumes and trick or treating in favor of waiting in the patch for The Great Pumpkin while snacking on pumpkin flavored treats. Don’t wait to experience Hickey Farms this year, as this is the last weekend they will be open. Check their Facebook page for hours and activities.

Wait, wait, wait for it…. The farm will be closed for the winter, but it will re-open in early summer for u-pick berry picking— strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and black berries. I can smell the pies now!

Hickey Farm Rules: 1. Dogs are welcome — leashes please 2. Clean up after your dog 3. Bring your own dog treats, and water bowls. Since I’m part water dog (on my Mother’s side, I made sure water is available for y’all) 4. Start your tradition…catch a family fun pumpkin play day!

Jeff Holt stands with Drake, alongside Grandpa Jack Hickey and Speck.

Crossword Solution

Is there anything more beautiful than a beautiful, beautiful flamingo, flying across in front of a beautiful sunset? And he’s carrying a beautiful rose in his beak, and also he’s carrying a very beautiful painting with his feet. And also, you’re drunk.

Copyright www.mirroreyes.com

CROSSWORD ACROSS

Elect Stephen F. Howlee Idaho State Representaave District 1 Seat B

Stephen Supports: • Agriculture.

•Proposiaon 2 • Property Tax Reducaon.

• Economy that works for Idaho.

• Access to Healthcare.

• Invesang in Educaaon.

• Mulaple use of Public Lands.

• Collecave Bargaining Paid for by Howlett for the House

Word Week

Vote November 6, 2018 for Stephen F. Howlee District 1 Seat B ssowleeoridahodistrict1b.com

purse-proud

/PURS-proud/

[adjective] 1. proud of one’s wealth, especially in an arrogant or of the showy manner.

“The purse-proud millionaire couldn’t help but brag to the crowd.”

Corrections: None to mention this week.

1. Deep cut 5. Crop up 10. Enumerate 14. Pearly-shelled mussel 15. Hermit 16. Pang 17. Corporate image 18. Renunciation 20. Ostentation 22. Candidate 23. Vagrant 24. Anxiety 25. Escalates 32. Unit of weight for gems 33. Fellows 34. Ouch!

37. Modify 38. Same 39. Relating to aircraft 40. Dab 41. Got up 42. Vary 43. Prolongation 45. Mystic 49. Japanese apricot 50. Hot sauce 53. Narrative description of past events 57. Fair 59. Murres 60. Loyal (archaic) 61. Cons 62. Wet 63. Ground forces

Solution on page 22 64. Tidy 65. North American deer (plural)

13. Basic belief 19. Hoard 21. Parental sister 25. Chilled DOWN 26. Zero 27. Journey 1. A deep wide chasm 28. Snow house 2. Dwarf buffalo 29. A belligerent 3. Anagram of “Sing” 4. Rhythmic horse’s steps mongrel dog 30. Embellisher 5. Warning devices (comic art) 6. Gown 31. French for 7. Hotel “Summer” 8. Observed 34. Abominable 9. Therefore Snowman 10. Language of 35. Chocolate cookie ancient Rome 36. Frayed 11. Cake frosting 38. Arrive (abbrev.)

12. Footwear

39. Elevation 41. Gorillalike 42. Cards with 1 symbol 44. Twixt 45. Grave marker 46. Have second thoughts 47. Perpendicular to the keel 48. Virile 51. Keg 52. A single time 53. Rope fiber 54. By mouth 55. A building for skating 56. Wild Tibetan oxen 58. Dike

October 25, 2018 /

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It' S amazing to us that we have stayed alive (in business) for the last 4 ½years.When we opened, our

business plan was to provide affordable transportation - in the form of bicycles of course - to as many folks as we could. We wanted to provide repairs, rentals and restorations with the same affordability. We also wanted to grow organically as we could afford to do so. Thanks to the people of Bonner County and beyond, we have been able to meet these goals and more.

We love the 11 Grandpa's garage" vibe that we've been able to create at our store. We enjoy the fact that we can provide good used parts and bikes to people. We provide an alternative to the junk that is sold at big box stores. Don't get us wrong, there's nothing quite like a brand new $2,000 (or more) bike, or new shiny parts - we can certainly help you there too.

One of our mantras is "Don't take that old bike to the dump." We will either just pass it along in our free bikes rack, or we'll rehab it and get it back on the road. Again we really appreciate the response we've gotten from our friends in this vain, but it still breaks our hearts to see bikes on the metal pile at the dump.

At Bonner County Bicycles we are egalitarians. As in we try to treat everyone with the same amount of respect, no matter how: eccentric, talkative, ignorant, smelly (both over and under perfumedL religious or atheist, political or apathetic, people of all colors, ethnicities, orientations, nationalities and political affiliations. What we cannot tolerate are people who bring hatefulness into our community! Racism is abhorrent to us. We firmly believe that the attack on the free press that seems to be toking hold in our country (and community) will weaken us as a nation. We would like therefore to express our whole hearted support for The Reader and its staff and their dedica­ tion to speak to truth and openness.

So if you're a hateful person; none of what we've said above applies to you. We do not need or want your business.

Sincerely, Dan Shook Tim Peihl Dave Reisenaur

(Dick Ross) (Greg Rowuka)

521 B, N 4th â&#x20AC;˘ Sandpoint (right behind horizon credit union)