Reader_December7_2017

Arts, entertainment, bluster and some ne

1

WE REON YOUR SIDE.

The American Redoubt series continues Racist CD propaganda distributed at SRS Ponderay PD seeking suspect 1n tire shop robbery A magic show, Free Nordic Ski Day, an ode to the 'Concert Mistress', holiday recipes from the Sandpoint cater, and more!

Thank you to our Giving Tuesday Business Partners!

Beet & Basil @ The Creek Century 21 Riverstone Evergreen Realty Sandpoint Starbucks Coffee

2 / R / December 7, 2017

Sandpoint Super Drug The Home Depot, Ponderay Thorne Research Yokes Fresh Market, Ponderay

(wo)MAN compiled by

Susan Drinkard

on the street

Should Sandpoint Police should release the identity of the person of interest in the case involving the racist CDs distributed at Sandpoint High School ?

DEAR READERS,

In lieu of writing anything witty or insightful, I’ll defer to this photograph taken by Scott Glickenhaus on Lavina Avenue this week.-Ben Olson, Publisher

www.sandpointreader.com

Editor: Cameron Rasmusson cameron@sandpointreader.com

Justine Murray Owner LaChic Boutique Sandpoint

Zach Hagadone (emeritus) John Reuter (emeritus) Advertising: Jodi Taylor Jodi@sandpointreader.com

Looking for a special gift?

We have a little something for everyone! Also a great place to bring the family for a holiday dinner.

207 Cedar St.

dilunas.com

263-0846

“Yes. I have one. It was on my windshield at the high school. I have not watched it.”

OPEN 11:30 am

Olivia Malone 11th grade Sandpoint High School Sandpoint

GAME ROOM UPSTAIRS

LIVE MUSIC Jimmy Glasgow Sandpoint

“Since it’s being marketed to minors, I’m sure there are parents who don’t want racist CDs passed around to their children. There should be action taking place rather than a debate going on.”

Sammy Russell Cosmetologist North of Sandpoint

Contributing Artists: ForAllWomankind.com (cover), Ben Olson, Susan Drinkard, SWAC, Lyndsie Kiebert, Jodi Rawson

Writers: Check out our locally made gift department! Contributing Cameron Rasmusson, Ben Olson,

Dylan Vogel Recent college graduate Sandpoint

“Yes, I think they should reveal the name so the person will stop doing it.”

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

Publisher: Ben Olson ben@sandpointreader.com

“Absolutely!”

“If the person is under 18, I can understand the anonymity. If the person is an adult being charged with distributing malicious and hateful propaganda to our youth, then the community deserves to know who it is.”

READER

Second Fridays w/

RON GREENE

6:30-9:30pm

MUFFY & The RIFF HANGERS 6:30-9:30pm BREWERY & BEER HALL 220 Cedar St. 209-6700 FAMILY FRIENDLY BREWPUB 312 First Ave.

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208.263.4005 A SandPint Tradition Since 1994

Lyndsie Kiebert, Katie Botkin, Rachel Castor, Christine Holbert, Brenden Bobby, Russ Fankell, Marcia Pilgeram, Jodi Rawon, PAS

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About the Cover This week’s cover features a poster designed by the website ForAllWomankind.com. If you’d like to purchase the poster, it is for sale on the website, with a portion of proceeds going toward the For All Womankind Fund.

December 7, 2017 / R / 3

PERSPECTIVES

Roy Moore was enshrined as a hero by Old Testament rape law devotees

By Katie Botkin Reader Contributor News recently surfaced that Alabama Senate candidate Roy Moore, who was just endorsed by the Republican National Committee, has ties to Vision Forum, a now-defunct, politically-involved ministry that put forth the idea that Old Testament law should be followed in U.S. courts. This viewpoint is defined as theonomy. The irony is that these laws can be indistinguishable from Sharia laws on the same subjects, particularly where they pertain to rape and molestation.

Way before he made news for allegedly touching and harassing underage women, I heard about Moore through Vision Forum.

As a conservative homeschooler, I got their catalogues; I also read and watched a reasonable cross-section of their media. My first cousins authored several Vision Forum products, such as

Letters to the Editor In Response To Mr. Gifford...

Dear Editor, To paraphrase Mr. Gifford: “Common sense is in short supply” with his letter. I do not know Mr. Gifford’s history, but as a native, born and raised here, recent weather and other related occurrences are very much out of place in my 60 years living here. The windstorm from a few years ago and the fires just a few months ago with over a week of smoke which even a “firestorm” from the ‘80s couldn’t duplicate are two examples.

I’m also sure that Mr. Gifford has the scientific credentials to overrule 95 percent of the scientific world in their climate change facts?

Mr. Gifford reminds me of a cartoon character from a few years ago based on the (original) “Planet of the Apes” movies. This ultra-conservative guy is transported 2,000 years in the future when the apes 4 / R / December 7, 2017

Roy Moore shows off his firearm at a rally last month. Photo courtesy of YouTube.

a video called “Return of the Daughters” featuring “visionary” women who dared to stay at home through adulthood to serve their fathers and wait for a husband, rather than attending college or even partaking in missions trips. My cousins were stars of the “stay-at-home daughters” movement that took Vision Forum’s men-as-spiritual-leaders mantra quite literally.

They believed women should remain under constant male protection and direction their entire lives — first from their fathers, and then from their husbands — to prevent atrocities such as molestation or marrying a guy whose theology wasn’t perfect. rule. He is standing in front of the ruins of the Statue of Liberty. Dr. Zaius, the ape scientist is telling him how the climate changed due mainly to man’s influence, leading to man’s downfall and the eventual rise of the “Planet of the Apes.”

The conservative then says: “I’m still not convinced that global warming is anything but a liberal plot.” (Now don’t write another letter.

It’s a metaphor. I know “Planet of the Apes” isn’t real). It just seems that even getting hit upside the head with a baseball bat can’t influence them.

Lawrence Fury Sandpoint

Help With Truth...

Dear Editor, Cort Gifford, in your Nov. 30 letter “Truth in Short Supply” regarding climate change, you have given me a glimmer of hope. If, in fact, it is a hoax, I could give up feeling guilt driving my car, or using coal-produced

Among other concepts pulled directly from the Old Testament, they proposed that husbands should present wives’ fathers with a “bride price” when they married.

The burden of protecting females in this paradigm is placed on parents as well as the female herself. The implication is that molestation is about what you’d expect if you allow women out from under the protection of their fathers. In their view, it’s not abnormal for men to lust after teenage girls; that’s just the natural order of things. Hence all that need for male protection.

Vision Forum evaporated in 2014 when its leader, Doug Phillips, admitted to an “inappropriate” relationship with a woman. The woman in question turned out to be a “stay-athome daughter” featured in my cousins’ film; she subsequently alleged in a lawsuit that Phillips repeatedly sexually assaulted and harassed her while she was living with his family and taking care of his children.

Vision Forum has sold several products co-authored

by Moore or that referenced his views on law. Moore also spoke at Vision Forum conferences,

such as the Witherspoon School of Law and Public Policy. Additionally, he was featured in a glowing documentary that aired at Vision Forum’s San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival and was created by theonomist and Georgia Republican 11th District State Committeeman Nathaniel Darnell.

Currently, across his social media pages, Darnell staunchly defends Moore using Old Testament law, which he believes should be the legal standard in courtrooms as well as everywhere else. Regarding Moore’s accusers, Darnell specified that in order to be morally and legally viable, “God’s Law requires ‘two or three witnesses’ to any (molestation) accusation.”

He elaborated that this did not apply to women saying the same kind of thing happened to all of them; instead, the Old Testament requires “an eye-witness to the same identical occasion with the same identical people at the same identical time.”

There are cases where this requirement for in-person witnesses has been applied to rape accusations in courts of law, but they have taken place in countries using Islamic law, such as

Dubai. If such laws were to be applied in the United States, for any reason, they would match up with the specter of Sharia law feared by some conservatives.

In fact, if I were ever to hatch a diabolical plot to impose Sharia law on the United States, I would attempt to do so through the back door of theonomy. As we have seen, even the President of the United States does not shy away from endorsing a man who has been booted out of the courtroom for attempting to enact Old Testament standards. Whether Moore himself is a theonomist is debatable; at the very least, he has a deep fondness for theonomists and believes that homosexuality should be illegal because it is illegal in the Bible.

When Moore told Fox’s Sean Hannity that he never dated girls without their mother’s permission, this was the context. There is never a minimum age for marriage or courtship in Old Testament law.

However, you are supposed to obtain her parents’ permission.

energy, and dump the sorrow of leaving my children with a compromised environment due to the actions of those of us who came before.

But I need more proof from you that will override the reality that 97 percent of climate scientist believe in man-made climate change, which represents thousands of years of combined higher education study. This steep lean is akin to a 200-pound man on one end of a schoolyard seesaw looking up at a six-pound newborn child on the other end.

We have accurate instruments, and reading CO2 in our atmosphere is not hard. Evidently we have a very high volume of CO2 that is indeed affecting our climate and, reading the historical data, proof that it began climbing dramatically about the time we started burning fossil fuels. Cort, help me understand how we are reading these instruments incorrectly.

Explain to me why, of almost every country in the world, we are the sole giant climate denier? Isn’t that like

the parent who believes everyone in the parade is out of step except their child?

I want to believe you, Cort; it would make my life better. What are your credentials? What independent, credible sources (not paid by Exxon) do you use? I need more than opinion.

And finally, if I agree with you, what if in the end we are wrong and inadvertently throw the planet under the bus?

High School administration worked swiftly with their school resource officer to remove the offensive material from cars. Bonner County residents have shown over and over that they will not tolerate racist and anti-Semitic actions and materials.

They have shown this through their actions of unity again and again.

The Bonner County Human Rights Task Force will continue to partner with the community in their work towards greater understanding and acceptance of all. We pledge to fight against prejudice in any form. We continue to do this through networking with other community groups, educational presentations, scholarships and community grants.

Join hands with BCHRTF and the community in standing up against prejudice and hate. Not in our town, not in our state.

Chris White Sandpoint

Response to Racist CDs...

Dear Editor, It is the season of the year when compassion and giving are at the forefront. Holiday lights are sparkling and people greet each other with smiles and good cheer.

That makes it particularly egregious to have the Sandpoint High School parking lot blanketed with hate-promoting CDs. Fortunately Sandpoint

Katie Botkin has a master’s degree in English and is the managing editor of MultiLingual magazine, which ships to 87 countries.

Lynn Bridges President BCHRTF Sandpoint

OPINION

Sexual harassment is a complex issue... and it isn’t

By Rachel Castor Reader Contributor Sexual harassment: It’s an issue too complex for a 30 second news bite. But I also think the issue is simpler than some of the coverage suggests.

One NPR commentator recently said: “This important story ... has done so much to make us recast how we think about sexual interactions in the workplace.”

Hold on, who is confused? Maybe we need more female commentators on this story. The repeated narratives coming to light of women being serially harassed, molested and raped have NOT caused us to rethink sexual interactions in the workplace.

Let me be clear: Women have never wanted to be sexually assaulted, harassed, raped or stalked at work. And if this changes the way this male reporter thinks about sexual interactions in the workplace, I guess he used to think it was OK to assault women at work. I don’t think most men have been confused about sexual interactions at work.

It’s simpler than that. These stories have caused us to prosecute sexual predators previously deemed “too big to fail.”

These stories are about what it means to be female in America. They’re also about the terrible things we are capable of doing to other humans when we think we are above the law. Above reality. Too big to fail. I’d like to say I would never take advantage of another human being if I was in a power position, but I don’t think that is something I can know. This in no way excuses the deplorable actions of sexual predators. But it shows us something both about the corrupting nature of power and of the disenfranchisement of women.

I am one of the lucky women who has not been raped. But no woman escapes sexual harassment at school and at work.

It happened to me with the “I want to have your baby” remark slung from older boys at school. It happened again when a male department head asked me to plug something in under his desk for him while he watched. I have been there. Ladies, we have all been there in one form or another. But let me be the first to say that these experiences are not the same. These stories are not the same, and we have to be careful not to equate them.

At the same time NPR severs ties with Garrison Keillor for touching a woman’s back, Roy Moore may be voted into office after being accused of kidnapping teenagers and trying to rape them in his car while he was in his 30s. One news story basically equated Garrison Keillor’s treatment by NPR to NBC’s firing of Matt Lauer, who is accused of locking women in his office and raping them until they passed out. That is not the same thing. We must remain a society that holds people innocent until proven guilty. And we must at the same

time stand up for and stand on the side of women who have been victimized by men in power. We can do both of these things.

One example is Al Franken, who was accused by one woman of being creepy and sexual when she was sleeping on a plane. Mr. Franken then apologized and asked for an ethics investigation to determine if he should step down. This kind of response makes it possible for us to reconcile ourselves with both the reality of the victims and the reality of the accused.

I know women who have been raped (and so do you, I promise), and I know men who have been falsely accused of sexual assault. We can’t become mobs with pitchforks trying to annihilate anyone who has ever been accused of misconduct. Neither can we allow sexual predators use their wealth and power to abuse women.

It’s not a scary time to be a man. It’s a scary time to be a sexual predator. We are creating this mass revelation by, for the first time in modern history, believing the

victims. We are standing on the side of those who have been hurt and humiliated, some of them for their whole lives, by men who decided they could just “grab (us) by the pussy.”

We create a safe society by listening to the victims, but also by supporting the rigorous journalistic standards of those who investigate these accusations. We create a safe society by making a distinction between harassment and assault, between touch and rape, between minors and consenting adults.

I am the facilitator of a local community organization. As the allegations of sexual assault and harassment began to dominate the news, I sent out a personal message to my members, and I extend it here to you. If you have been the victim of sexual violence, I stand by you. I believe you. You are not alone. Your stories are heralding a revolution, and finally bringing the truth to light.

December 7, 2017 / R / 5

COMMUNITY

Outside 7B Hosts Winter Outdoor Programs

By Reader Staff

Bouquets: •Sandpoint West Athletic Club’s 10th annual Turkey Trot wound up collecting 1,142 pounds for the Bonner County Food Bank.

SWAC thanks all of the 400-plus participants for turning out for a good cause. We thank SWAC for putting on this fun annual event.

•Thanks to the individuals who did the ground work for the cessation of the train horns at the East Hope crossing. Thanks to the community of East Hope for supporting this effort in the form of $15,000 worth of donations for the project. A lot of us live very close to the tracks. I will enjoy the trains passing without having to cover my ears or pausing a conversation waiting for the four horn blows to stop. I know this action is being considered in Sandpoint, and I hope that East Hope will be an inspiration.

-Submitted by Cynthia Mason.

Barbs: • The fact that an accused child molester is possibly going to be elected to the U.S. Senate next week should be one of those harbingers of doom we should all look out for. When identity politics get this bad — when voters seriously have to agonize over the choice between a man accused of sexual misconduct with underage women and a Democrat — we are in a dangerous place in American politics. I hope the voters of Alabama choose the moral path, but I fear Roy Moore will win the race.

• While we always appreciate your suggestions for stories, please don’t get angry with us when we don’t hop to it quickly enough.

Often, what you think is a worthy story isn’t. Often, when you want to know more about an issue, it’s probably because the issue is complicated and takes time to delve into for an adequate analysis. Please continue to suggest ideas, but keep in mind, we won’t be bullied or badgered when we’re not ready to publish. Just think of us as a big, stubborn donkey: We’ll get you there, but it needs to be on our own terms.

Cracking the whip only makes us dig in our heels even deeper.

6 / R / December 7, 2017

Outside 7B will offer two winter programs for community youth this winter; a three-day MiniCamp with outdoor educator Dave Kretzschmar and a six-week Introduction to Snow Sports program.

During the mini-camp, participants will spend afternoons learning about the fun of being outside during the winter. This program will take place Jan. 3-5 and includes an evening of family tubing at Schweitzer on Jan. 5.

The mini-camp is open to chil-

dren ages 12-14 and costs $10 per participant.

The six-week Introduction to Snow Sports program includes snowshoeing, outdoor winter preparedness and three weeks of ski or snowboard lessons at Schweitzer Mountain Resort.

This program will take place on Saturdays beginning on Jan. 6 and runs through Feb. 10. The Intro to Snow Sports program is open to children ages 8-12, who have no prior experience skiing or snowboarding. The cost of the program is $20.

Outside 7B is more than a program — it’s a movement designed to connect people to nature. This program exists to help our community find ways to experience the benefits of nature. It can often be difficult to spend time outside, and that conditions can sometimes make it difficult or even frightening to go outdoors. This program’s goal is to make getting outside as painless as possible, and to help all individuals find the peace and joy that come from engaging with the natural world.

Whether you’re just starting to

IFG pledges matching grant for Mythweaver

SWIM SAFETY AT SWAC

consider outdoor activities, or you love the great outdoors, Outside 7B has options to help support your time in nature. Outside 7B is sponsored by Kaniksu Land Trust’s ParkRx Program, in which local health practitioners prescribe time spent outside as a way to increase all aspects of physical and mental health.

For more information about these programs, or about ParkRx and Outside 7B, contact Cami at Kaniksu Land Trust by calling (208) 263-9471 or emailing cami@kaniksu.org.

By Ben Olson Reader Staff Preserving the oral history of Idaho’s tribal elders is an important project for the nonprofit Idaho Mythweaver.

Idaho Forest Group (IFG) pledged a $5,000 matching grant to the Mythweavers toward preserving dozens of aging cassette tape recordings by digitizing, transcribing and copying them.

The project, titled “Native Voices: Preserve Recordings,” is being coordinated by media director Jane Fritz.

According to Fritz, the Mythweavers have launched a GoFundMe campaign to help meet the match proposed by IFG. Donations will be accepted by mail with the hopes that the match be made by the end of December.

For Diane Mallickan, Nez Perce tribal member and Mythweaver board president, this project is vital to preserving the tribal elder’s history.

“Chief Joseph once said, ‘The Earth and myself are of one mind.’

There are so many voices,” said Mallickan. “If you were going to compare all those voices, put them into a bundle, they are all going to say pretty much the same thing: if we don’t protect Mother Earth, and if we don’t protect the things that are part of our body, and everything that we are, we aren’t going to be able to survive.”

To donate by mail: PO Box 2418, Sandpoint, ID 83864, or check the online GoFundMe page.

Call Jane Fritz at (208) 597-6123 for more information.

Northside elementary third graders participate in swim safety at Sandpoint West Athletic Club. Long Bridge Swim and SWAC work together to provide a three-lesson swim program for all Sandpoint elementary kids throughout the school year that ends with a safety day where the kids practice safety and rescue skills. Photo courtesy SWAC.

FAMILY READING WEEK A BIG SUCCESS

Sandpoint Mayor Shelby Rognstad poses for a photo with children, Olivia the Pig, and Suzanne Davis, children’s services librarian, at the Family Reading Week Party on Thursday, Nov. 16. To find out more about Family Reading Week, check out www.ebonnerlibrary.org.

Annual Giving Tree Fundraiser Thursday, Dec. 14 @ 5:30pm

(208) 265-5700 320 S. Ella Ave. www.IdahoVet.com

•Pet Costume contest (prize for best costume) •Holiday treats for pets •Meet and Greet new Veterinarians and staff •Meet Schweitzer Avalanche Rescue Dogs •Hot Chocolate Bar •Compassion Fundraiser for local families in need of emergency veterinary care

that girl from the other department

Confused about your health insurance?

Time is running out to get your answers!

Call now to set your appointment with Danelle at Spears Insurance, Inc. (208) 265-2026

December 7, 2017 / R / 7

NEWS

Racist propaganda spread on SHS campus ‘Person of interest’ identified

By Cameron Rasmusson and Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff

A large-scale distribution of CDs filled with racist propaganda disturbed the Sandpoint High School campus last Thursday.

The CDs, which contained white supremacist, anti-Semitic and otherwise racist images and messages, echo previous distribution campaigns of racist content over the past year. Past campaigns used mailings or flyers thrown into neighborhood homes in the dead of night and featured racist images and text, promoted a racist website and targeted local activists, journalists and politicians, including Sandpoint Mayor Shelby Rognstad.

SHS student newspaper the Cedar Post broke the story of the CD distribution. SHS student and Cedar Post Editor-in-Chief McCalee Cain first heard about the CDs when a couple of Cedar Post staff-

ers approached her with the material. She said they went through the disc’s contents on a computer together, and upon realizing it was a breaking story, she used the rest of her school day to find answers from school staff about what would happen next.

“At the time I was thinking there were like five (CDs), but in the end it turns out there were a lot,” she said, noting that SHS administrators were quick to confiscate as many as they could from the parking lot. “I’m not sure how many students actually watched them, which is good.”

Cain was interviewed by KXLY 4 News following her breaking of the story, which she said she didn’t anticipate.

“I was saddened by the reason I was writing it, but … it really didn’t feel like a big deal to me until after the fact because I’m a reporter.

That’s what I do,” she said, adding that after writing the story she

continued on as usual, heading off to take photos at a basketball game.

“This kind of propaganda has gotten people upset in Sandpoint, and that’s what the people spreading it are going for, so I’m disappointed but not surprised,” Cain said.

According to the police report of the SHS incident, Sandpoint Police School Resource Officer Spencer Smith learned from a student on Thursday that CDs were being placed on vehicles in the school parking lot. Upon investigating, Smith found 56 CDs in total, red and black in color and placed in protective sleeves. Each was labeled with the title, “What They Are Hiding From You” and promoted a website.

Smith later reviewed security camera footage and saw the person responsible drove into the parking lot in a red Jeep, placed the CDs on parked cars and drove away.

According to the police report, officers identified a man named Scott Rhodes as a person of interest

in the incident. He denied any involvement in the case.

“He requested all other questions go through his lawyer,” the police report reads.

Nevertheless, police issued a no-trespass order against Rhodes, prohibiting him from setting foot on school grounds for a year. This came at the request of Lake Pend Oreille School District Superintendent Shawn Woodward, who said that

The entrance to Sandpoint High School.

Courtesy photo. the distribution of the CDs violated school board policy #4140.

“The school district has submitted a no trespass order to the Sandpoint Police Department,” Woodward said in an email. “If this person chose to ignore (the) order and trespassed, then the police would have cause to make an arrest.”

Deadline nears for art proposals Perfection Tire hit by robbery

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff

With an end-of-the-year deadline fast approaching, Sandpoint officials renewed their call this week for Schweitzer Cutoff Roundabout art proposals Opened on Nov. 22, the long-awaited roundabout re-established a key connection between Sandpoint and Ponderay, re-opened a popular route to Schweitzer Mountain Resort and alleviated some traffic congestion that resulted from detouring. On the other hand, it’s still looking a little aesthetically bare.

That’s why the city is seeking artist applicants for a project that will enhance the roundabout with visual flair. It’s a $90,000 public art project funded through the Sandpoint Urban Renewal Agency.

According to Sandpoint City Administrator Jennifer Stapleton, the new roundabout serves many cultural, industrial and recreational purposes, given its 8 / R / December 7, 2017

importance to the fairgrounds, airport, Schweitzer Mountain, other nearby industries and the cities of Sandpoint and Ponderay. Successful proposals should reflect that multi-purpose quality, as well as the local love of “pristine land and water.”

Three finalists will be selected by Feb. 5 from the pool of applicants. These artists will receive a $1,000 stipend to prepare a full art proposal, including “scale drawings/marquettes, costs and description of the installation process and production timeline associated with the proposed art piece.”

After the finalists go through a public evaluation, the Sandpoint City Council will award a contract to one of the applicants on June 20.

Artists should apply through www.callforentry.com no later than Dec. 31.

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff Local police departments are requesting citizen aid in tracking down a pair of suspects in a Perfection Tire robbery.

According to Sandpoint and Ponderay police departments, on Nov. 24, an unknown male and female suspect robbed Perfection Tire, getting away with about $9,000 worth of various tires.

The suspects operated two separate vehicles. The male drove in “what appears to be a dark blue Dodge Truck with lighter colored bottom striping and pulling a tandem axle trailer,” according to police. The female suspect, meanwhile, drove a gray or silver sedan similar to a Toyota Avalon.

The Sandpoint Police Department publicized the case in a Facebook post, which was shared 582 times as of Wednesday evening.

Several people in the comments said they believed the man was

local and that they had seen him before. Others expressed sympathy for Perfection Tire and their hope that the perpetrators would be caught.

“People like this make it hard for the small business owners to catch a break, and at the holidays, as well!!” wrote Starrell Pickett Palmer. “Sure hope they’re caught and soon!!”

The suspect is seen clearly in these stills provided by the Ponderay Police Department. Courtesy of PPD.

Anyone with information should contact Detective Sgt. Mike Victorino, Ponderay Police Department, at 208-265-4251 or mvictorino@ponderaypd.org.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Community Assistance League delivers Christmas cheer to Seniors

By Reader Staff

For the 12th year, members of Community Assistance League delivered gifts to SASi headquarters for seniors who participate in the Meals on Wheels program.

CAL ladies gave specially selected gifts for 59 local senior citizens in order to make sure every person is acknowledged at this Christmas time.

Pictured from left to right are: Ellen Weissman, SASi Executive Director; Mary Daubersmith, CAL; Esther Inselman, CAL; Sherry Fulton, CAL program head; Mary McGinnis, SASi Food Program Coordinator.

Task Force Horse Press hosts writing expo sponsors Human Lost

By Christine Holbert Reader Contributor Rights Day

By Reader Staff Join Bonner County Human Rights Task Force and the Foundation for Human Rights Action and Advocacy (FHRAA) as they celebrate freedom, equality, fairness and rule of law by commemorating the 70th year of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

This collaborative document is considered a milestone in the work of human rights, as it was drafted and supported by representatives from around the globe declaring all people are entitled to inalienable rights as human beings. The UN General Assembly approved final passage of the UDHR on Dec. 10, 1948.

Three Sandpoint High School students from the Model UN class will present a brief history and development of the UDHR. Following the students’ presentation, our featured speaker, Carla Peperzak, will talk about her experiences in the Dutch Resistance during World War II, a time when many were being persecuted. Mrs. Peperzak gives us an opportunity to look at the past and move forward in hope and respect for one another.

The event will take place on Sunday, Dec. 10, at Sandpoint High School auditorium, from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Come be a part of this living history event while supporting Bonner County students.

Lost Horse Press and Sandpoint Parks and Recreation have teamed up to present “The Winter Salon: Lectures, Readings and Book Signings featuring David Axelrod, Melissa Kwasny, and Christopher Howell” at the Sandpoint Community Hall on Saturday, Dec. 9. Admission is free, and all are welcome.

The Winter Salon will begin at 10 a.m., and will include lectures by the three featured writers, with discussions to follow each topic.

David Axelrod presents “A Lyric Ecology for the End of the World (and After),” while Melissa Kwasny discusses “The Power

ICF awards $55,000 in grants in Bonner and Boundary counties

Featured writers include (from left to right): David Axelrod, Melissa Kwasny and Christopher Howell. Courtesy photos. of the Image,” a theme from her recent book of essays entitled, “Earth Recitals: Essays on Image and Vision.” Christopher Howell will discuss his work “Poetry and the Inner Life.”

After the talks, there will be a break for lunch. Lost Horse Press and the writers will adjourn to Thai Nigiri. We invite

any local writers who wish to join us for lunch, a lively discussion and general mayhem to do so at 12 p.m.

After lunch, we will head back to Sandpoint Community Hall for a reading and book signing, which will commence at 2 p.m.

The North Idaho Action Fund in the Idaho Community Foundation is providing over $55,000 in grants to four projects working to improve the accessibility and quality of behavioral health programs in Bonner and Boundary Counties.

Boundary County Youth Crisis and Domestic Violence Hotline was awarded $10,000 to provide mental health counseling to Boundary County victims of domestic violence or sexual assault.

Bonner County Partners in Care Clinic, Inc., was awarded $30,000 to pay the crisis line director and the clinicians who answer the crisis line calls.

Community Coalition for Families was granted $12,000 to provide temporary or permanent housing needs, including motels, rental assistance and move-in costs to people with behavioral health issues.

Finally, Jannus, Inc., was awarded $3,885 to provide an eight-week series of parenting classes at Blue Haven, a transitional housing facility in Bonner County, for parents of children who are striving to address and overcome the factors that contributed to homelessness.

For more information, visit www.idcomfdn.org.

LIBRARY TRANSFORMATION PROJECT UPDATE Community Ski Day postponed

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

You can’t miss the bright yellow exterior of the Sandpoint Library “Transformation” project. Inside, crews are creating space for additional tutoring rooms. The project is slated to be complete by spring 2018. For details, visit www.eBonnerLibrary.org.

Schweitzer Mountain Resort postponed their annual Community Ski Day until Friday, Dec. 15.

The move was made in the hopes of having more lifts and terrain available for the public.

“Having more terrain open for just $10 is a great draw for this incredibly important fundraising effort,” said Schweitzer Marketing Manager Dig Chrismer.

Tickets are available for $10 each, with 100 percent of the proceeds benefiting local nonprofits Community Cancer Services and Bonner Partners in Care.

December 7, 2017 / R / 9

Mad about Science:

By Brenden Bobby Reader Columnist In the age of smartphones and mass-produced LEDs, light isn’t really a big deal to us anymore.

Our vehicles spout light in every direction at night. We have powerful flashlights to illuminate our way in the creepiest of crawl spaces. Our planet is so well-lit, it’s actually getting harder to see the stars at night, no matter where you are.

Because of this, I will forgive you if you don’t take much stock in the contents of this article.

Then again…

To tell the guy behind you that you’re turning, to light up the creepy crawl space under your house, to blot out the night sky with light, you need a device that’s the culmination of more than 140 years of engineering.

The things in this article make light on their own.

Like a BOSS. So you’ll have to forgive me if I don’t take much stock in you not taking much stock in the contents of this article!

Bioluminescence is a chemical reaction in which a biological function creates light. Not with the flick of a switch, press of a button or a mechanical device, but with its own body.

The most universal example I can think of is the firefly.

Everyone knows about fireflies, lightning bugs or, for your inner entomologist, lampyridae. They’re flying beetles with glowing butts.

Fireflies glow for all sorts of reasons. Larvae glow to warn predators that they taste funky, and shouldn’t be eaten. Adults glow to attract prey and mates.

One thing I didn’t know until I started researching this subject

10 / R / December 7, 2017

Brought to you by:

Bioluminescence

is that the light emitted from fireflies doesn’t have an infrared or UV frequency.

That means that Apache attack helicopters and AC-130 gunships are not amongst the firefly’s natural predators.

Fireflies aren’t the only creatures with a knack for bioluminescence. We’ll get to the others later, but first we’ll learn about what makes them glow.

Bioluminescence is achieved similarly across most species capable of producing light. In virtually all cases, luciferin and/ or luciferase are involved. If that sounds ominously familiar, it’s because it’s named after Lucifer, the light bringer.

No worries, glow bugs aren’t part of a satanic cult or anything.

In most cases, the luciferase is an enzyme that interacts with magnesium and oxygen to catalyze a reaction that creates light.

In some cases, it’s much more complex than this, but in most cases it’s pretty simple.

We’ve actually injected luciferase into other creatures, and ourselves, for curious purposes of artistic and scientific endeavor.

What sort of creatures have we made glow, you might ask?

Sheep, dogs, cats, a rabbit and several types of fish to name a few. We even inject ourselves with bioluminescent dyes to track tumors and certain cells, or chemical pollutants in our bodies. Bioluminescent enzymes are also useful for forensics in a range of applications from bodily fluid detection to testing for doping in sports.

Want a bioluminescent pet of your own? It’s as easy as a trip to the pet store. Humans have inserted bioluminescent jellyfish genes (as well as the genes of sea anemones, coral and sea pan-

sies) into the embryos of zebra danios to create brilliantly colored fish that seemingly glow in the dark (when interacting with certain wavelengths of light or other chemicals). They come in all colors of the rainbow and are pretty inexpensive, and as far as we can tell, this form of genetic engineering doesn’t do any harm to them in an aquarium.

Their ability to glow in the presence of certain chemicals also gives them the unique ability to inexpensively detect chemicals we can’t normally see in water.

Despite heavy resistance to gene-altering sciences in areas such as food (corn, grain, other GMOs), and human embryos, the public has widely accepted the gene altering and patenting of glowing fish.

Me, I still think it’s weird that you can patent, trademark and brand a living creature, but that’s an existential conundrum for another day.

Some creatures are too small to see, even when they’re glowing. Once they gather in the millions, billions, or even more, they’re clear as day. Dinoflagellates are a form of plankton, and some of them can glow a distinctive blue. It’s pretty cool seeing the crests of waves glow a haunting sapphire blue.

Dinoflagellates are also responsible for the dreaded red tide, a form of algal bloom that turns water a reddish-pink and poisons anything that swims in it.

You know what they say: strength in numbers.

Not to be outdone by the macro and the micro, fungi are famous for their ability to glow in the dark. Foxfire is one of the oldest known examples,

having been cited by Aristotle, experimented on by Pliny the Elder, tinkered with by Benjamin Franklin and written about by Mark Twain.

Foxfire is a bit of a conundrum, its name being somewhat of a mistranslation from the french “faux” meaning false.

While foxes and kitsune might have gotten a cool reputation as fiery mischief-makers thanks to this freaky fungus, maybe we should’ve been calling it foe-fire all this time.

This is just the tip of the glowing iceberg. There are over 200 aquatic species capable of bioluminescence that we know about, and that’s not even counting coral, algae, fungi, or those awesome glowing sheep we developed.

Curious about owning some glowing creatures of your own?

Before you nuke out your room, maybe inquire at the pet store and see what it’d take to get some sweet glowing coral. Who needs a night light when you have crazy biology?

Random Corner eans? can help!

Don’t know much about the oc

We

• Over 94 percent of Earth’s life is aquatic.

• Fifty percent of the U.S. (in terms of our complete legal jurisdiction, which includes ocean territory) lies below the ocean.

• There are more artifacts and remnants of history in the ocean than in all of the world’s museums, combined.

• We have only explored less than 5 percent of the Earth’s oceans.

In fact, we have better maps of Mars than we do of the ocean floor.

• The longest mountain range in the world is under water. Called the Mid-Oceanic Ridge, this chain of mountains runs through the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and into the Indian and Pacific oceans. It runs more than 35,000 miles long, has peaks higher than those in the Alps and it comprises 23 percent of the Earth’s total surface. We didn’t send divers down to explore the Mid-Ocean Ridge until 1973 – four years after Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walked on the moon – when a French-American crew of seven entered the 9,000-foot-deep Great Rift in the French submersible Archimede.

• The ocean boasts an array of unusual geographic features, such as pillars that reach several stories high and chimneys that send up sulphuric acid. Underwater hot springs that shoot water that’s 650 degrees Fahrenheit – hot enough to melt lead – boast a profusion of life, from 10-foot tall tubeworms to giant clams that function without digestive systems.

• Much of the life in the oceans, as on land, is invisible to the naked eye. For instance, if you’ve ever swallowed a milliliter of ocean water, know that you also gulped 1 million bacteria and 10 million viruses – give or take a few.

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Dollar Beers!

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

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Alzheimer’s Sup Local Weavers Art Opening 1-2pm @ Sandpo 5-8pm @ Idaho Pour Authority Check out the amazing creations our Families, caregiv local weavers have made. Compli- Alzheimer’s, dem are welcome to a mentary appetizers will be served. respite care at the

Live Music w/ The Somethings Live Music w/ Marty & Doug 6-8pm @ Wine Bar at Cedar St. Bistro 5:30-7:30pm @ Idaho Pour Authority Featuring Meg Turner and Chris Lynch Guitar / mandolin duo Live Music w/ The Cole Show Live Music w/ Ron Keiper Trio 6pm @ Arlo’s Ristorante 7:30pm @ Eichardt’s Pub A great jazz trio Live Music w/ The Snack Brothers 5:30-7:30pm @ The Farmhouse Live Music w/ Mike & Shanna Live music, exquisite dining in Ponderay 5-8pm @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Live Music w/ Mike Johson jazz duo 6-8pm @ Wine Bar at Cedar St. Bistro Guitar and hammond B-3 organ Live Music w/ The Cole Show 6pm @ Arlo’s Ristorante Live Music w/ Mike & Shanna 5-7pm @ Idaho Pour Authority Live Music w/ Brian Jacobs and Chris Lynch 9pm-12am @ 219 Lounge A great piano/guitar duo

Live Music w/ Muffy and the Riff Hangers 6:30-9:30pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall An acoustic band with traditional bluegrass and folk instruments. Free show! Also, Edelwagen Food Truck will be parked out back serving their awesome handcrafted sausages and high quality food

Live 9pm Coun

Sandp 7pm @ All dan sic. $5

Thrillusionist 3pm & 7pm @ Don’t miss ou interpretation magic and ill military/under general admis

Cedar St. Bri 10am-2pm @ Come enjoy i the bridge spa

Sunday Swaps 2-6pm @ SKåL Taproom Artists and service pros: Bring in a fe es and or talents to barter with other c

Human Rights Day Celebration 11:30am - 1:30pm @ Sandpoint High School The Bonner County Human Rights Task Force hosts an International Human Rights D from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Sandpoint High School. The featured speaker is Carla Pe ber of the Dutch resistance who has firsthand experience of how she and others resisted Monday Night Blues Jam w/ Truck Mills 7:30pm @ Eichardt’s Pub

KPND Monday Night Football Party • 5:3 Host Bob Witte will have tons of prizes to g tickets, KPND new music samplers, and muc

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Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail Sip & Shop 4-7pm @ Pend d’Oreille proceeds benefitting the Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail. Open to the public!

Bonner Mall Seniors Day 9am-12pm @ Bonner Mall

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The Conversation: 4 Rituals that Make you Happy Live Music w/ John Firshi 6-8pm @ Kyoko Sushi 7:30pm @ Eichardt’s Pub Come to the Cedar Street Bridge to be a part of the A truly transcendental experience Conversation. FREE and open to the public

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Holiday Open House and Fundraiser 5th Annual November Party with Selkirk Fir 5:30-7pm @ N. Idaho Animal Hospital 6-10pm @ MickDuff’s Beer Hall Help celebrate the holiday and meet our If you’re growing out your Movember Mushta new veterinarians during a Holiday Open celebrate with the Selkirk Fire Department and M House and Giving Tree Fundraiser. Bring to help raise some money for Postate Cancer your pet for the pet costume contest! $2.50 of every pint paid for will be going to the

Night Out Karaoke 9pm @ 219 Lounge Don’t listen to the others - you actually have a lovely voice

Tuesday Backgammon 5pm @ Laughing Dog Br The tournament takes Tuesday with beer specia

ful

December 7 - 14, 2017

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

mer’s Support Group Mastermind: “Vision Board Party” @ Sandpoint Senior Center 5:30pm @ The Heartwood Center s, caregivers and friends of those with There is NO Charge for this all-inclumer’s, dementia and any related disorder sive event. This evening is open to evcome to attend this support group. Free eryone, not just business owners. cyncare at the Day Break Center next door thia@legacylifeconsulting.com

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Teen Writers Club 3:30pm @ Sandpoint Library Teens who write ... unite! Enjoy collaboration, peer reviews, brainstorming activities; writing supplies and refreshments provided Ladies’ Shopping Night Sandpoint Contra Dance 5-8pm @ Downtown Sandpoint 7pm @ Sandpoint Community Hall Refreshments, specials, product demos and All dances are taught and called with live mumore will be available. Come out shopping! sic. $5 donation, sponsored by Lost Horse Press Live Music w/ Devon Wade 9pm-12am @ 219 Lounge Country music in Sandpoint

illusionist David Davinci & 7pm @ The Panida Theater ’t miss out on this incredible pretation of the age-old art of ic and illusions. Tickets $15 tary/under 18/seniors, $20 ral admission

ar St. Bridge Public Market m-2pm @ Cedar St. Bridge me enjoy indoor shopping on bridge spanning Sand Creek

Happy

Office Located in the Ponderay Walmart Vision Center Call and make an appointment today: 208.255.5513

The Winter Salon: Lectures, Readings & Book Signings 10am @ Sandpoint Community Hall Featuring readings, lectures and signings with David Axelrod, Melissa Kwasny, and Christopher Howell. Lectures by the three featured writers begin at 10 a.m., with discussions to follow each topic. After the talks, there is a break for lunch. Lost Horse Press and the writers will adjourn to Thai Nigiri, and any local writers who wish to join them for lunch, a lively discussion, and general mayhem are welcome to do so at noon. After lunch, the group will head back to Community Hall for a Reading and Book Signing at 2 p.m. Free and open to the public.

Sandpoint Chess Club 9am @ Evans Brothers Coffee Meets every Sunday at 9am. All are welcome

ng in a few of your favorite piecGame Night at the Niner ith other creative types 9pm @ 219 Lounge Rights Day Celebration Organic Seed Saving s Carla Peperzak, a mem1pm @ Sandpoint Library s resisted the Holocaust.

Bring food and seeds to share if you can arty • 5:30pm @ 219 Lounge rizes to give away from area restaurants, concerts tickets, WSU football s, and much more. Drink specials, plus food by Mandala Pizza

gammon Tournament ng Dog Brewery nt takes place every eer specials and prizes

Conquer the Outdoors Again

Hansel & Gretel Performance 5pm @ First Lutheran Church Join the Sandpoint Music Conservatory for a wonderful holiday show that both children and adults will enjoy. Suggested donation $10

UNPLUGGED Open Mic 5-8pm @ SKåL Taproom Local musicians come play together! Open mic is held every Wednesday

KRFY Radio Fundraiser 5-8pm @ Idaho Pour Authority Enjoy live music, raffle prizes and complimentary appetizers with Fremont Brewing Co. beer on tap

Dec. 15 Reclaim Idaho Sip & Shop @ Pend d’Oreille Winery Dec. 15 Midnight Mass Christmas Concert @ St. Joseph’s Catholic Church

Dec. 16 Free Nordic Ski Day @ Schelkirk Firefighters ICL Holiday Party and Art Show we itzer Round5-8pm @ Columbia Bank Community Plaza abo ut er Mushtache, come Idaho Conservation League’s annual holiday party. The eve-

f the

ment and MickDuff’s ning also features the opening exhibit for ICL artist-in-reste Cancer Research. idence Linda Lantzy. Enjoy beer, wine, appetizers, and a Dollar Beers! silent auction of beautiful Idaho photography. Free to attend 8pm @ Eichardt’s Pub ing to the cause

December 7, 2017 / R / 13

The American Redoubt Series Location, location, location:

What Redoubters are looking for when establishing a ‘survival retreat’

By Ben Olson Reader Staff Writer

Editor’s Note: In this final explanatory piece on the American Redoubt movement, we discuss what the ideal characteristics are when folks are looking for a piece of property. Next week, we will begin the second half of the series, which will explore the politics of the Redoubt and the effects the movement has had on the political environment of North Idaho.

For those seeking a place of refuge in the so-called American Redoubt region, there is no shortage of resources to explore in setting up a “survival retreat.”

From the movement’s founder James Wesley, Rawles’ (sic) SurvivalBlog.com to local real estate agents like Todd Savage of American Redoubt Realty, detailed information is readily available for anyone willing to do the research.

In his blog post, “Introduction to the American Redoubt Migration Movement - Move to the Mountain States,” which he claims launched the Redoubt movement, Rawles outlines a checklist for people to follow in preparation for moving to a retreat locale.

“Buy land that maximizes your self-sufficiency,” he wrote. “Make a clean break by selling your house and any rental properties.

You aren’t coming back.”

For Savage, it’s essential to outline a clear plan for his potential buyers on a website he operates called AmericanRedoubt.com.

“The key elements of any retreat property search are: Locale, location, water, food, energy, defense (and) safe storage,” wrote Savage.

“After the retreat is built then you’ll need to properly stock it with Preps (pre-positioned supplies).”

Savage said the search for a retreat locale is the most important aspect to consider: “This single decision, normally the very first in the search and in accordance with your threat assessment, will often

14 / R / December 7, 2017

be responsible for your long-term success and happiness.”

Of course, there were people deciding to build retreats long before the Redoubt movement. Lloyd Wallace has lived all over Bonner County for 65 years, the past 22 of which have been spent on a defensible piece of property west of Hope.

“My geographic location-isolation was not my choice,” said Wallace. “I was born in Spokane and ... my family’s economic situation demanded that we be self-reliant or go without.”

Wallace believes the Redoubt movement is a throwback to a lifestyle that goes back to the founding of the nation.

“We have been on this self-sufficiency quest for at least 50 years,” said Wallace. “It started with growing our own health food in the 1970s because we didn’t have money for health insurance.”

Over the years, Wallace has slowly turned his property into a haven which he feels is secure from any outward calamity. He positioned a driveway gate strategically near a steep cliff area to prohibit vehicles from entering the property, built garden boxes, planted fruit trees and berry bushes and began work on a hydroelectric-power production system that draws energy from a nearby creek through gravity fed pipes.

“What I built is a water motor that needs neither diesel nor gas nor propane,” said Wallace. “It does not have a lot of moving parts to wear out, just two bearings and a shaft that rotates. It does not pollute, does nothing to the water to contaminate it. It only borrows the mass of the water and its weight and is not excessively noisy to the environment.”

Wallace’s hydro power system is primarily used to heat his home, which is also connected to the grid. However, Wallace’s system includes a 5,500-watt inverter that returns power to Avista, which they store as a credit for him to use during the months of August through October when water flow

Lloyd Wallace adjusts the flow of his hydroelectric power system.

Photo by Ben Olson. in the creek is at its lowest.

“It’s a lot of work, but it comes with the lifestyle,” said Wallace. “It becomes easier if you direct your whole existence around it, but I’ve found you have to enjoy the journey as well as the destination.”

Savage agrees that, after locating a survival retreat location, water is the most important aspect to consider.

“No matter how spectacular the property, make sure there is some type of primary water available,” wrote Savage. “Most rural properties will have either a drilled water well or a hand dug well with a cistern. ... If you find a property in your price range that has the ability to install hydroelectric power, and it meets all the other criteria on the list, BUY IT. Hydropower is the most sought after power source for most Preppers.”

Savage said that of all the prospective buyers of retreat property, most are interested in going off grid.

“About 35 percent actually achieve this within the first year,” he wrote, “And about 50 percent within two years. It’s expensive if done right, but so very worth it when the grid goes down.”

For Savage, there are three distinct and primary property attributes that must be considered which all work toward the goal of becoming self-sufficient: “Abundant year-round water + alternative energy + sustainable food production = a property worth defending.

It’s that simple.”

Next week: the politics of the Redoubt and what effect the movement has had on North Idaho.

Where are they coming from?

We asked Todd Savage of American Redoubt Realty to share some insight about his prospective buyers seeking to build a survival retreat in North Idaho.

Reader: Where are most prospective buyers hailing from?

Todd Savage: California, Florida, New York State and Washington (Seattle area) are the top four that we receive clients from.

Reader: What are some of the more common questions asked of you by prospective buyers?

Todd Savage: 1. What does it cost to register my vehicle in Idaho? They normally whistle and laugh when they hear an average of about $60.

2. What firearms are legal in Idaho? Answer: There is NOT ONE firearm that is banned in Idaho.

Period. Yes, machine guns, silencers (suppressors) and hand grenades are legal here, they just require actual ATF paperwork.

3. How do I move my guns and ammo safely across the country to my new homestead? Answer: SRC (Survival Retreat Consulting) has helped transport confidential items for clients, for a fee, of course.

Profiles of the Redoubt:

The Redoubt Realtor

Todd Savage details the land sales that drive the migration movement

By Cameron Rasmusson Reader Staff

The American Redoubt has many components — political, philosophical and religious. But if there’s one element the movement needs to exist, it’s land.

For the past several years, Todd Savage has been doing good business providing Redoubt adherents with exactly that. Operating under the banner American Redoubt Realty, Savage specializes in connecting clients to ideal properties for self-sufficiency — or maybe, just maybe, surviving the calamity known in Redoubt circles as The End Of The World As We Know It. One of the more visible members of the American Redoubt, Savage came to national attention in 2016 when he was included in a Washington Post profile of the movement. Outspoken, frank and rarely without a firearm close at hand, he fits the popular image of the Redoubt faithful. Savage makes no apologies for lifestyle decisions that might shock coastal sensibilities, like the loaded rifles he keeps in easy access near his children’s bedrooms at their off-the-grid homestead 18 miles east of Sandpoint.

“We moved here because we wanted to be around folks that were libertarian/ liberty minded like us and identified with the goals of being self sufficient and prepping,” he wrote in an emailed response to questions.

In many respects, Savage’s journey to the Inland Northwest mirrors the that of the clients he now serves. In the early 2000s, he and his family enjoyed an affluent life in California but were disturbed by what they perceived as a transforming culture.

“We didn’t quite ‘fit in’ with the changing landscape,” Savage said. “We were libertarian Christians who homeschooled, refused to poison our children through vaccinations, owned evil black rifles and supported what would one day be known as the Blue Lives Matter movement.”

In 2003, Savage experienced a fateful meeting with James Wesley, Rawles (sic), the novelist and blogger credited with launching the Redoubt in a 2011

Left: “A day scouting property with a client in the Yaak River Valley, Montana.” -Todd Savage.

Top: “One of our doors at home, next to the children’s bedroom so they can have fast access to them. Yes, they are loaded.”

-Todd Savage. Photos courtesy of Todd Savage.

blog post. If 2011 was the formal birth of the Redoubt, however, Rawles was planting its seeds long beforehand. He advised the family to give up urban comforts in favor of a more sustainable lifestyle.

“Maybe we were like the ‘Original Redoubters’ before there was a ‘Redoubt.’ Who knows?” Savage wrote.

“Either way we are eternally thankful to Mr. Rawles for his guidance and support making out move here.”

The Savages’ exodus from California established a blueprint for helping clients with similar priorities.

“Those we have interacted with have fled their old locale due to rising crime rates, taxes, aversion of the political environment, inability to home school their children, own and carry firearms at their discretion,” he wrote.

But finding the perfect homestead is no simple task. Savage provided a five-page document they send prospective clients to gauge their needs and priorities. It covers everything from sun exposure to heating methods to the availability of rifle and pistol ranges, as

well as other concerns like acreage, distance from towns or emergency services and home style. As is often the case with real estate deals, reconciling the reality of price ranges with the dream home is often an issue.

“Finding the right property is as much about the client as it is the property,” Savage wrote. “Getting to know the client is important to be able to scout and find the right property.”

One thing is for sure: There are enough people interested in putting Redoubt principles in action to keep business humming. Savage estimates his office works with 2,700 revolving clients a year who are interested in a move to a Redoubt state — eastern Washington and Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Wyoming. Of that number, about 75 to 80 per year make the move.

Savage said approximately 70 percent of that number move to North Idaho and the rest to Montana, with a handful choosing Wyoming instead.

As for the cultural and political ideas that animate the Redoubt, Savage said it’s all about guns, God and freedom.

Frustrated with the tenor of mainstream politics and a perceived overbearing nanny state, Redoubt adherents see the western states as a last bastion of a libertarian lifestyle.

“In the event of a foreign invasion, the American Redoubt may well be the last stand for America, and Redoubters will lay their lives down for it,” Savage wrote. “This region truly is the ‘Last Refuge of the American Patriot’ as we say.”

The growing political influence of the American Redoubt has provoked cries of alarm from many Idahoans, Republican and Democrat alike. But to Savage, the political energy that underpins the Redoubt isn’t wielded as a weapon. He sees it as a defensive measure shielding a rapidly disappearing American way of life.

“The people that make a strategic relocation to the American Redoubt region are here to PREVENT a transformative effect on the region,” Savage wrote. “We want the area to stay liberty-minded and conservative.”

December 7, 2017 / R / 15

VETERANS AFFAIRS

‘I am proud to be a veteran’

Sandpoint’s Russ Fankell shares why it’s important to recognize veteran’s organizations

By Russ Fankell Reader Contributor For the first 30 years after my service I never thought much about Veterans Day. To me it was just another day that brought up more bad experiences and intrusive thoughts.

Now I enjoy Veterans Day because I have dealt with my demons and traumatic experience through counseling through the VA hospital in Spokane as well as the Vet Center in Spokane, so I am very comfortable talking about my tour of duty and enjoy answering any questions someone might want to ask.

I got my draft notice then enlisted in the Army for two years from November 1968 to November 1970. After basic training and AIT (Advanced Infantry Training), I landed in Vietnam May 5, 1969.

I was assigned to the 1st Air Cav 2/12 D Co., which was an infantry line com-

pany 75- to 100-percent full strength.

We were helicoptered to the jungle, and we were tasked with damaging as much as possible the NVA (North Vietnamese Army) and VC (Viet Cong). I left Vietnam April 10, 1970.

In the late 1990s I was introduced to the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) — a veterans organization chartered by congress — which had a chapter in Coeur d’Alene at the time. This group of fellow veterans impressed me so much that I got involved and went to a leadership convention in Tucson, Ariz.,in 2002 to learn more.

They are very structured and have a great constitution and bylaws. These men and women are not a good ol’ boys club.

They have done so much not only for the Vietnam vet, but all veterans. Through their national board of directors, state council president and their members they have been the driving force to attain benefits for veterans.

Sandpoint location open until 10pm on weekends

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If it was not for the VVA there would not be any PTSD, Agent Orange or the 30 illnesses/diseases — including 18 cancers — recognized by the Veteran’s Administration as connected to Agent Orange herbicide exposure.

You can find more information at vva. org. Click on “what we do,” “outreach programs,” then select Agent Orange and scroll down to the self-help guide. Then you can explore the service-connected disabilities for exposure to Agent Orange for veterans and their families.

Because of VVA, I found a home with someone who went through the same things I did and wanted to help. I was fortunate to be a part of this and to see it first hand on a national level when I was Idaho State Council President of VVA for four years and traveled to Silver Springs, Maryland three times a year for BOD and SCP meetings.

At these meetings they have some 11 different committees that brainstorm on how to help Vietnam veterans as well as all veterans and their families. I belonged to two committees — POW/MIA and Veterans Against Drugs — and found some very interesting facts about POW/MIAs. I am proud to be a veteran and proud of what I did in the military. I did what I was told and did my job very well. I am also proud to be in the three veterans organizations: VVA, The Disabled American Veterans and the American Legion here in Sandpoint. Other important organizations in town include the Marine Corps League and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

We have a large veterans population in Bonner and Boundary Counties and a lot of veterans organizations as well. They all have their own way of helping veterans

Top left: Russ Fankell rides in a helicopter during his service in Vietnam.

Top Right: Russ Fankell in combat gear during the Vietnam War. Courtesy photos.

and their families, as well as the community. We all participate in different things and since 2002, I have carried the VVA flag in the Fourth of July parade.

This year at the Fourth of July parade I was very disappointed because we did not have enough veterans to carry the POW/ MIA flag as well as all the branches of service flags. We have a large population of veterans but still not enough to be willing to help in a parade by carrying a flag.

We have all these organizations but very few join. It is impossible to know and call every veteran in the community, but I am pretty sure they all know where the VFW Hall is. It is listed when the organizations have their meeting and different functions in the community. In case you don’t know where the VFW Hall is, the address is 1325 Pine St. (on the corner of Pine and Division).

If a veteran needs help or has a question about VA benefits, the VA does not come to you. You have to go to them and find out the information you want. If you want to learn more about how you can participate with local veterans in Sandpoint, please contact the VFW at (208) 263-9613.

Each organization is very good at what they do, so pick one you like and help out. We hope to see you next year carrying a flag in the Fourth of July parade.

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December 7, 2017 / R / 17

COMMUNITY

Museum renovates iconic caboose

By Ben Olson Reader Staff The Bonner County History Museum is excited to announce that the newly-curated caboose is now open to the public for viewing. The yellow Spokane International Railway/Union Pacific caboose that has become a town landmark has been brought back to life.

The 27-ton steel caboose was built in May 1942 for the Union Pacific Railroad (UP) in Mt. Vernon, Ill. It was the ninth off the line as UP began a program to replace wooden cabooses and was acquired from Union Pacific by the Spokane International Railway (SI) in July 1963 and later re-lettered for the Spokane International Railroad (SIRR) after the original company went bankrupt. It was retired Jan. 27, 1984. Cabooses are no longer

used by American railroads, but before the 1980s, every train ended in a caboose, usually painted red, but sometimes painted in colors which matched the railroad’s corporate paint scheme. This caboose is painted in Armour yellow, the signature paint color of Union Pacific.

The caboose was donated

by Union Pacific in 1986 to the Bonner County History Museum. Track was laid on May 3, 1986, by Gus Barfus, Wes Osborn, Ron Cassock and Don Samuelson, and the caboose was trucked in from the railroad along Highway 200 and placed on this section of track. Over the years, many community volunteers have contributed to the restoration and display of the caboose as it exists today. This group includes: Bus Walson, Norm Lippert, Earl Chapin, Ron Costich, Paul Rechnitzer, Tim

A new face in food

The iconic caboose in Lakeview Park. Photo by Ben Olson.

Fitzpatrick, Bill Kendall and Arie Poelstra.

Visitors are welcome to enjoy the caboose during regular business hours (admission fees apply). Curator Heather Upton, with the help of railroad expert, Will

New Winter Ridge store director brings lifetime of experience

By Lyndsie Kiebert natural and local.

Reader Staff Writer Most recently, Eakins managed Self-described “retail nomad” Bi-Rite stores in Sean Eakins is setting roots in the San FranSandpoint as store director at cisco area. In Winter Ridge Natural Foods need of a change after 25 years of working in the of scenery, he food industry. applied when During his 18 years with Winter Ridge Sam’s Club as a manager and sent out a nation“store fixer,” Eakins said he al call for a new visited around 75 stores to help store director.

Sean Eakins in the produce aisle at Winter boost morale, balance finances Ridge. Photo by Lyndsie Kiebert.

“It was a breath of fresh and more. air, literally and figuratively,” He then had a change of heart Eakins said of Sandpoint. After and career. In his work today, visiting, he decided it was time he applies the people skills and to move to Idaho and leave that business smarts he used at Sam’s nomad lifestyle behind.

Club to help natural food stores.

By Reader Staff Eakins said he is impressed He said it all began when he with Winter Ridge and is excited Join your local community ratook over and meat and seafood to help the business grow by dio station, 88.5 KRFY, at Idaho market. listening to customer feedback, Pour Authority Wednesday, Dec. “That kind of put me on my trying new things and working 13 from 5-8 p.m. for their annual journey of looking for more with local artisans. meeting and fundraiser. sustainable foods, foods that are “You can feel the community There will be featured pours healthier for you, foods that give here,” he said. “My biggest thing from Fremont Brewing Co., raffles back locally,” he said. coming here is bringing that and live music by Marty Perron Since Sam’s Club, Eakins has community through food.” and Doug Bond. Also, there will worked with a number of grocers be an opportunity to hear what’s whose focus was keeping foods happening at the station.

KRFY hosts annual meeting/party

18 / R / December 7, 2017

Valentine, has created a historical masterpiece for the community to enjoy. The renovation and curation of the caboose was paid for by a generous grant from Union Pacific Railroad.

Visit the caboose and check

out the Bonner County History Museum Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults, $3 for seniors, $1 for under 18. Members and children under 6 get in free.

Free Nordic Ski Day is back

By Ben Olson Reader Staff How do you embrace the winter? Are you ready to try the fastest growing sport in our community?

The Farmer’s Almanac is predicting many snowy moths ahead, and the Sandpoint Nordic Club has been ramping up its efforts to provide another successful Cross Country Ski Free Day to the community. This is your chance to learn how to cross country ski, and experience a great activity for all to get out and enjoy the snowy winter to come.

Free lessons will be on Saturday Dec. 16 at “the Roundabout” on Schweitzer Mountain Road.

Beginner classic skiing and beginner skate skiing lessons will be offered during three sessions throughout the day. Everyone who attends will also receive a coupon for a future discounted lesson package at Schweitzer to continue improving their skills.

The three sessions offered start at 9 a.m., 11:15 a.m. and

1:30 p.m., with equipment fittings scheduled a half-hour before each session. Participants need to have equipment on before their lesson starts. Bring a friend or come by yourself ready to learn the fun Nordic sport.

The cost is free, but rentals and lesson reservations must be booked by contacting Schweitzer Ski and Ride Center at 208-3553070 or lessons@schweitzer. com. Ski packages will be available for full season rentals after lessons.

For more event information, visit www.sandpointnordic.com and click on events tab.

STAGE & SCREEN

Bringing the magic home

This weekend’s thrillusionist show will feature amazing feats, exotic birds and a local woman turned illusionist’s assistant

By Lyndsie Kiebert Reader Staff Writer When David DaVinci visited his dentist on Tuesday morning, he was asked how long he’d been home.

“I told him, ‘a few minutes,’” DaVinci said with a laugh. “But when we’re here, it’s home.”

Typically, DaVinci and his wife, Jamie Womach — originally of Sandpoint — call cruise ships, foreign countries and circus tours home most months out of the year. To put it into perspective, their four-year-old daughter Capri visited four continents before her fourth birthday.

All of this globetrotting is thanks to DaVinci’s career as a “thrillusionist” — a thrill-seeking illusionist who uses his shows to let the audience live vicariously through his gravity-defying and shock-inducing experiences. Their act features elaborate illusions and trained exotic birds, just to scratch the surface.

DaVinci and Womach bring their act home to Sandpoint Saturday, Dec. 9, with shows at both 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Panida Theater.

His fascination with magic and illusions began at an early age, he said, when his older brother received a magic kit for Christmas, a gift that sparked an interest in performing for others. Though he played sports, DaVinci said magic eventually became his primary passion. “(Playing sports) wasn’t as fulfilling as taking out a magic kit and amazing somebody,” he said.

That’s exactly what DaVinci loves to do to this day. It was through one of DaVinci’s performances that Womach met him, and the two were married three months after she graduated from Sandpoint High School in 2004.

“When I met him, his life was already the show,” she said. “I just thought, ‘Well, he’s going to take some flexible, hot dancer on the road with him, or I could see if I could do it — so that was all the motivation I needed.”

Womach said that while DaVinci trained her in the beginning, she began seeking out advice from performers she met all around the world. As a result she learned many tricks to the performer’s trade, from makeup tips to how to keep your balance on a rocking cruise ship.

The duo, whose act is titled “David DaVinci - Thrillusionist,” has performed

as illusionist and assistant for 13 years now, the last four in the company of their daughter, who is learning a few illusions of her own as of late.

Womach said she has made Capri a keepsake book for each year, complete with photos and inside jokes. When asked how they think their daughter will remember her childhood, the couple admitted that their daughter’s early life has been unique.

“Part of me is like, ‘This is awesome, the world is her school,’ but I also wonder if it’s overwhelming for a little brain and she won’t remember anything,” Womach said.

DaVinci recalls a recent trip to Africa when the family went to a whale show, but all Capri wanted to do was color in her coloring book because whales putting on a performance was nothing new to her.

Another time, she told her classmates that her father walked tigers — which was true — and they didn’t believe her.

Womach sent photos to Capri’s teacher so her classmates could see.

“Her perception of reality is as magical and enriched as it could possibly be as a little human,” DaVinci said. “My goal as a parent would be to let her see that anything is possible — not just believe it, but let her actually see.”

DaVinci said they aren’t sure when they’ll bring their act back to Sandpoint after Saturday’s performance, so they’re excited to give people a taste of what they do while they’re on the road. Both DaVinci and Womach admit that because they aren’t in Sandpoint often, they feel this show is a chance to “prove they exist.”

“It’s sort of like we are the myth,” DaVinci said, laughing.

Womach said she loved growing up in Sandpoint, so she’s grateful to raise her daughter here — at least part of the time.

“It’s a really good place to come back to. It always feels really good to be here,” she said.

Tickets for the Thrillusionist show are available at the door or online at www. panida.org/event/david-davinci-thrillusionist. Doors open 30 minutes before the show. There will be an opportunity to take photos with the birds directly after each show, so bring a camera.

Thursday Ladies Night $1.00 off all drinks Unique selection of Excellent Wines Local Beers On Tap

Yummy Tapas Menu

Wine $ Cheese Sampling Wine & cheese sampling Saturdays 12-3 p.m.

Saturdays 12-3 p.m.

Thrillusionist David DaVinci and assistant Jamie Womach with their child, Capri, on stage.

Courtesy photo.

Open 5 p.m. - Closing Thurs. - Sat.

dec. 7 @ 7:30pm | dec. 8 @ 8:30pm | dec. 10 @ 3:30pm

“victoria & abdul” dec. 9 @ 3pm & 7 pm

David Davinci - thrillusionist

Not a magician, not just an illusionist, but a thrill-seeking, mind-bending master of prestidigitation who creates an alternate world of fascination

dec. 14 @ 7:30pm | Dec. 15 @ 5:30pm | Dec. 17 @ 1:30pm

“Loving Vincent” dec. 16 @ 6:30 pm

The Jazzy Nutcracker Presented by studio 1 sandpoint academy Dec. 20 @ 11:30am | Dec. 21 @ 7:30pm | Dec. 22 @ 5:30pm Dec. 23 @ 3:30 & 7:30pm | Dec. 24 @ 1:30pm | Dec. 25 @ 5:30pm Dec. 26-30 @ 7:30pm | Dec. 31 @ 3:30pm | Jan. 1-3 @ 7:30pm

“The Greatest showman” Jan. 13 @ 7:30pm

a conversation with rich landers

The Friends of scotchman peaks wilderness are celebrating 13 years of working for wilderness host spokesman-review outdoor reporter for 45 years, rich landers

Jan. 18-20 @ 7pm

banff mountain film festival world tour December 7, 2017 / R / 19

FOOD

The Sandpoint Eater

Sugar and spice and everything nice (and local)

By Marcia Pilgeram Reader Food Columnist

I’ve got three busy weeks ahead of me, and I imagine I’m not alone. I’ve been baking and freezing or curing for the past month or so, and now comes the fun of packaging. Besides my obsession with cookbooks and table linens, I could put any professional gift wrap center to shame. I have tubs and totes filled with food-safe bags, cute little boxes and fine waxed papers. When Coldwater Creek sold off the last of their legacy, I didn’t see how I could live without the reams of ribbon, so I bought every remaining roll in their warehouse. Nine color and genre-coordinated totes later, I am a woman for all seasons.

I also have a penchant for glass containers, such as miniature canning-type jars and fancy preserve jars, which I fill with homemade candies or spice mixes. Co-op Country Store stocks a variety of sizes of Kilner vintage inspired jars (my favorite). While you’re at the Co-op, check out their shelves filled with quality J.R. Watkins spices and extracts (I have a fondness for Watkins products, though they are no longer delivered to our homes).

Some of my favorite gifts to give are bulk spices that I mix and package in small jars, tiny muslin bags, or spice infusers or herb sachets with layered cheesecloth. You can find a great assortment of bulk spices at Yokes and Winter Ridge (Winter Ridge has over a hundred selections!).

Besides the spice infusers that you’ll find at Weekends & Company, they have the largest variety of quality, Norpro kitchen gadgets that I’ve seen outside of Pike Place Market. Pick up

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a small nutmeg grater, fill it with fresh nutmegs seeds from Winter Ridge, add a pie pan and your favorite recipe for a fruit pie or quiche (either recipe will be enhanced with a grating of fresh nutmeg), and you’ve got a thoughtful gift for a food enthusiast on your list.

Likewise, you can mix up your own batch of pickling spice, add it to crock and weight from Co-op, add your favorite pickle recipe and a box of kosher salt for your favorite pickle lover.

Sometimes, I give a gift of pickling spices and a grocery store gift card, earmarked for fresh shrimp, add some cocktail sauce

and package it all up in a bright colored colander.

Another thoughtful gift is a selection of tea leaves from Winter Ridge, filter tea bags from Scandinavian Affair, a beautiful Whiskey Jack pottery mug by Nicole Black and an assortment of tea cookies whipped up in your very own kitchen.

We’re fortunate to have such a great array of gift selections right here in “shop-local” Sandpoint. Adding a personal touch of homemade goods to your packages is thoughtful and a great opportunity to pass along favorite recipes to younger generations. My kids (and theirs)

love to help me roll and stretch paper thin dough for povitica, an old-world nut pastry. It’s one of their favorite holiday traditions.

One of my favorite holiday traditions is a trip to Spokane to see the beautiful decorated trees at the Historic Davenport Hotel.

I’m especially looking forward to it this year, as I’ll be traveling for the holidays and my house will be barren of decorations. Anyone who’s stayed at the Davenport is familiar with their pillow gift: the addictive and renowned Soft Peanut Brittle. Since each member of my family, including the little adorable ones, can polish off their own pound of this famous confec-

tion, it was in my best (financial) interest to learn how to make my own. I’ve been making it for 10plus years now, and it’s the most requested Christmas treat in my repertoire.

Whip up your own batch of Soft Peanut Brittle and make a welcome holiday package by adding a pound of Evans Brother coffee and a gift card from Panhandle Cone & Coffee — because nothing tops their hand-crafted ice cream like a sprinkling of crumbled brittle! If you need some ribbon for your finishing touches, just let me know.

Peanut (Soft) Butter Brittle Recipe Yields 2 pounds If you love the Davenport’s famous brittle, you’ll love this too. Key reminders – this is a pot that needs watching! It can easily burn, so keep an eye on it towards the end. Work quickly and stretch-stretch-stretch, once you’ve poured the (HOT!) syrup. I dedicate a pair of white cotton gloves for stretching. Don’t double the batch-but do make two as your family will eat the first batch before you have time to package it up.

INGREDIENTS: •2 cups creamy peanut butter •1 teaspoon vanilla •1½ cups sugar •1½ cups light corn syrup •¼ cup water •2 tablespoons butter •2 cups peanuts roasted/salted (I chop some of them) •1 teaspoon baking soda •1 teaspoon water

DIRECTIONS: Lightly butter a cookie sheet or marble slab Warm peanut butter, in glass bowl, in microwave - on defrost (it burns easily!)

Just before needed, stir in vanilla. In a large heavy sauce pan combine the sugar, corn syrup and 1/4 cup of water. Cook over high heat to 275°F, lower the heat to medium, add butter, stirring until melted. Add the peanuts and continue to stir until the candy starts turning brown and reaches 300°F

Spice Blend Recipes Herbs de Provence

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

•2 tablespoons dried rosemary Grind rosemary, bay leaves •4 bay leaves and fennel seed in a spice •1 tablespoon fennel seed grinder (or use a coffee bean •2 tablespoons dried savory grinder dedicated to spices); •2 tablespoons dried thyme transfer to a glass bowl and stir •2 tablespoons dried basil in savory, thyme, basil, marjo•2 tablespoons dried ram, lavender, parsley, oregano marjoram and tarragon with the rosemary •2 tablespoons dried and fennel. Store in an air-tight lavender flowers container, away from light. Use •2 tablespoons dried in infuser or make sachet balls Italian parsley for cooking. Grind/sprinkle on •1 tablespoon dried oregano finished meat and pasta dishes.

•1 tablespoon dried tarragon •1 teaspoon bay powder

(about 5 minutes). Remove from heat, stir in baking soda that has been dissolved in the teaspoon of water. Working quickly, fold in the warm peanut butter until well blended.

Pour the candy onto the marble slab or greased cookie sheet, spreading quickly, stretch as thin as possible (I use clean, cotton gloves). Store in cool area, in air tight container.

These are a couple of my favorite spice blends to mix and package for year-around gifts. In the summer, for another aromatic gift, I cut young sprigs of rosemary, sage, thyme, oregano and lavender, wrap the ends tightly with twine and hand to dry.

Pickling Spice

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

•2 tablespoons mustard seed •1 tablespoon whole allspice •2 teaspoons coriander seeds •2 whole cloves •1 teaspoon ground ginger •1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes •4 bay leaves, crumbled •3 cinnamon sticks (broke in half)

Add all ingredients to a clean glass jar. Shake it well. Place in infusers or small muslin bags for cooking, or pour in the bottom of your brining vessel.

MUSIC

This week’s RLW by Ben Olson

Ode to Janet Peterson

The ‘Concert Mistress’ of Upcoming Christmas Concert

By Jodi Rawson Reader Contributor It is a small miracle that there is orchestra music available at all in our community. As the “Concert Mistress” of the Pend Oreille Choral and Orchestra, Janet Peterson is one key player in making this happen.

Over 20 years ago, Mark and Caren Reiner desired to hear the works of classical masters. They realized they would have to take charge, and that initiative built up a group of local talent and a loyal fan base over the years.

But they are quick to admit that the strength of the group depends on the diligence of the members, which fills them both humility and gratitude.

“I have nothing but praise for Janet Peterson,” said Mark Reiner. “Thank you.”

Peterson’s role as “concert mistress” is no small task and includes extra leadership duties.

“The concert mistress for the violin section has the authority to figure out what bowings we are going to use and if there are specific ways we are doing things, like style and the technical aspects of playing the piece on the violin,” said Peterson.

“If everyone is doing their own bowing or their own style it gets really muddled.”

Her task is to decide the bowing and style for the chosen pieces, write out these interpretations and email them to the violinist members. Reiner emphasized how responsible Peterson is and how she has ultimately lessened the load for him and Caren.

Peterson shows up an hour early to orchestra practice each week for months, in preparation for the upcoming concerts. My daughter, Dinah, the youngest member of the orchestra, depends on Peterson’s extra guidance.

By local standards, Peterson is still new, but in the four

years she has lived here she has become a key player in several groups. She has performed in three Sandpoint Festival Orchestra performances, for instance.

She is also a member of the Bonners Ferry Orchestra and several smaller performing groups.

Peterson has been playing violin for over 50 years. In high school she was very serious about music and considered a musical career, but her interests were broad.

She majored in American history and liberal arts in college and went on to earn a master’s degree in public administration.

She played with the symphony in college, and while she was in graduate school she practiced and performed chamber music with a small group.

When Peterson began to work “an 8 to 5 for the state” in Olympia she took on the challenge of auditioning for the Olympia Symphony “playing all of the great works.”

“I am so glad that I tried out when I did,” she said.

Peterson said that in the 30plus years that she was a member of the Olympia Symphony, they grew more competitive, intense and polished. But Peterson kept up.

“I think most people don’t understand how disciplined an orchestra has to be,” she said.

“It is way more disciplined than what I was doing in my regular job. You have to be really careful about being on time, practicing your part, not playing wrong notes, not playing in the rests, and all the other things that go along with being in a group. If people don’t do that, especially in a group the size of the Pend Oreille Choral and Orchestra, it is really noticeable.”

Peterson’s favorite piece is Shostakovich’s 5th Symphony.

One of the major works of the 20th century, it requires great

READ

I’m the person who collects lists of my friends’ favorite books and then never reads them. In the spirit of turning over new leaves, I started reading “The Boys in the Boat” by narrative nonfiction author Daniel James Brown. Numerous people have suggested I read this tale of the 1936 American Olympic rowing team, and now I am one of those people. Read this book if only because of the care Brown put into creating it. He parallels the lives of the American rowers with the developments in Nazi Germany happening at the same time. History, sport, war, love — you get it all with this meticulously-told true story.

LISTEN

Janet Peterson with her violin. Photo by Jodi Rawson. skill and a full orchestra (our local orchestra is about a quarter of the size of a full orchestra like the Olympia Symphony).

“I think it is a hoot to play,” said Peterson. “It is very anti-war, and there are parts of it that make fun of the military culture under Stalin.”

Peterson’s first job was teaching high school social studies and, decades later, she has returned to teaching through music. Currently she teaches private lessons through the Music Conservatory of Sandpoint and in Bonners Ferry.

“I love watching the kids progress,” she said. “They are a lot of fun.”

“One of the things in life I value most is creativity,” said Peterson. “As a violin teacher I can let my students be creative

and encourage them to enjoy. I think creativity brings out the best in people. I think music is a great vehicle for compassion and expressing emotion.”

Peterson will be playing at two upcoming Christmas concerts at the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Friday, Dec. 15, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 17, at 2 p.m. She is especially excited about the Carpentier and Vivaldi pieces.

“I have never played the Charpentier (pronounced sharpon-tee-aye),” she said. “I think it is a gorgeous piece. It is very early Baroque, antiquated and light. Vivaldi is always lively.”

The Pend Oreille Choral and Orchestra has always performed free and open to the community and there are free refreshments served after the show.

Canadian indie-pop band Alvvays (pronounced “always”) has a sound that’s hard to describe. For the older generation, the Cranberries might be a good comparison. For a younger crowd, I’d say Best Coast.

Alvvays’ most recent release, “Antisocialites,” has it’s highs and lows, but the highs are too great to keep it to myself. Tracks “Not My Baby” and “Dreams Tonite” bring a breathy, euphoric sound that can be described in no other way than “dreamy.” “In Undertow” is also a highlight.

WATCH

Most are familiar with the Facebook page “Humans of New York.” Now, Brandon Stanton’s brainchild is a docu-series streaming on Facebook’s “Watch” feature: “Humans of New York: The Series.”

If you thought the photos and captions told captivating stories, get ready for the videos to blow you away. Each episode features a theme, like “time,” “relationships” or “purpose.” Candid interviews reveal people’s greatest fears, saddest experiences and funniest anecdotes. Laughing, crying and silent sobbing were all part of my experience, and I’m only on episode five.

December 7, 2017 / R / 21

Keeping furry family members Beards for Bears fundraiser gets hairy safe during the holidays

By Ben Olson Reader Staff

By Panhandle Animal Shelter Reader Contributors The December and January holidays are coming up fast! Celebrating with family and friends can be so enjoyable. But remember that some family members, the ones with fur and tails, need some measures taken to keep them healthy and safe during this joyful but hectic time of year.

Here are some things to keep in mind so that the holidays will be a happy time for your pet and you, too.

Timber! A Christmas tree not securely anchored could cause an injury to the pet that had a paw in knocking it over. Plus, make sure that pets don’t have access to the tree water which can contain things that will make your pet ill, like bacteria and chemicals. Preservatives, pesticides, fertilizers and other agents, such as aspirin, are commonly used in the tree water to keep the tree fresh. These may have harmful consequences for cats and dogs that drink the water.

Make it a Tinsel-less tree. Kitties love this sparkly “toy” that’s fun swat at, but nibbling can lead to swallowing, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration and possible surgery. It’s best to use something other than tinsel on your tree.

Keep wires, batteries and glass or plastic ornaments out of reach of pets. A wire can deliver a potentially lethal electrical shock, and a punctured battery can cause burns to the mouth and esophagus.

Shards of breakable ornaments can damage your pet’s mouth and digestive tract.

Don’t leave lighted candles unattended. Pets may burn themselves or cause a fire if they knock candles over. So if you leave the room, put the candles out.

Avoid mistletoe and holly. Holly,

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Awkward family photos. when ingested, can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. Poinsettias are considered mildly toxic as compared to mistletoe and holly. And many varieties of lilies can cause severe illness in cats if ingested. Opt for artificial plants made from silk or plastic, or choose a pet-safe bouquet.

Over recent years, the number and types of products that contain xylitol have greatly increased. Some of the products are baked goods. While this low-calorie substitute may be good for humans, it can cause serious illness when it comes to our pets.

Being aware of whether xylitol is in any of the products you buy or are thinking of buying will help to keep your pets safe.

The winter holidays are a wonderful time to enjoy family and friends. But with all the extra hustle and bustle don’t forget to do some pet-proofing measures so that all of your family will enjoy the holidays and good memories will be made.

Do you know someone you’ve always wanted to see in chin whiskers, but they’ve always rejected the thought? Have you longed to shout “Hey Fuzz Face!” to your special someone who always has a clean-shaven face? Now is your chance to challenge these non-beard lovers to a special fundraising activity.

Beards for Bears is a fun and fuzzy fundraiser for American Heritage Wildlife Foundation to raise funds for their much-needed black bear enclosures.

Here’s how it works: Ask your twolegged bruin to grow a beard for one week.

If he accepts the challenge and sprouts whiskers, you donate $10. If he fails and shaves off the hair from his chinny chin chin, he donates $10. Extend the challenge for added furry fun (two weeks of growth

= $20 donated, etc.).

If he already has a beard, challenge him to shave it and donate!

The American Heritage Wildlife Foundation, based outside of Clark Fork, is the only nonprofit facility in the panhandle with USFS and IDFG permits that allow for the rehab care for both birds and nongame mammals.

Volunteers contribute over 3,000 hours, and the community raises over $10,000 annually to help their mission to keep North Idaho wild.

Currently, if someone in Bonner County came across an orphaned black bear cub, the Foundation could not provide direct rehabilitive care for that cub like they can for other species. With fundraising efforts through the end of the year, they are hoping to change that.

Make a bear out of the man in your life. Challenge him to grow his beard and donate to help local bears. Visit American Heritage Wildlife Foundation’s website at www.ahwf.org for more information.

The vision of panelized, realized.

Crossword Solution www.mehomes.net (208)264-6700

Dan McMahon, Gen. Contractor dan@mebldg.com It’s funny that pirates were always going around searching for treasure, and they never realized that the real treasure was the fond memories they were creating.

ACROSS

Fri-Sun. Dec. 8-10, 2017 Bonner Mall

it Come Vis 1-2 Santa 1 Every y Saturda ay d and Sun

Woodcrafts Greenery Metal Art Hand Knits And Much More!

Over 25 exhibitors!

Photos e availabl

Sponsored by The Bonner Mall Merchants

pennyworth /PEN-ee-wurth/

Woorf tdhe Week [noun] 1. a bargain.

2. as much as may be bought for a penny.

“During the recession, he got his home for a pennyworth.”

Corrections: In last week’s interview with Alex Barron, he referred to the “NACCP” when it should’ve read “NAACP.” Also, I left out an “a” in the word “loaves” in the Jack Handey. Finally, I accidentally spelled the word “tenet” with an extra “n.” Phew! -BO

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CROSSWORD

1. Flat circular plates 6. A ball of yarn 10. Automobiles 14. Arm of the sea 15. Magma 16. Part of a plant 17. Not fresh 18. Leave out 19. Unrestrained revelry 20. Harmonious 22. Flower stalk 23. Plateau 24. Prayer beads 26. Cried Solution on page 22 30. A gesture of assent 31. Chatter 32. Always 65. Way to go 38. Stigma 8. Wicked 33. Break 66. Distinctive flair 40. Lunch or dinner 9. Overly diluted 35. Clenched hands 67. Wash 10. A transverse brace 42. Cut of beef 39. A systematic plan 68. Seaweed 45. Deprive through 11. Heart artery for therapy 69. A musical pause 12. “Message received death 41. Insecticide 70. Anagram of “Seek” 48. A grinding tool and understood” 43. Follow as a result 71. Exams 51. King 13. Hinder 44. River of Spain 52. Practical 21. Anxious 46. Musical finale 53. Mommies 25. Clods DOWN 47. Chart 26. Used to be 55. Unit of gold purity 49. Estimated time of arrival 1. Platter 58. Pinnacle 27. Not odd 50. Pitcher 2. Within 28. Pins 59. ___ slaw 51. Mess up 3. Close violently 60. Totes 29. Victorious 54. Hazard 4. Large brown seaweed 34. Specks 61. French for “State” 56. Salt Lake state 5. Water vapor 62. Views 36. Winter 57. Eyeglasses 6. Type of enamelware precipitation 63. City in Peru 7. A fast Brazilian dance 37. It ebbs and flows 64. Blue-green December 7, 2017 / R / 23

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